We studied the effects of various immunologic and inflammatory mediators on the expression of the class II major histocompatibility antigens, HLA-DR and DQ in short-term organ cultures of newborn human foreskin. Induction of these molecules above baseline was observed preponderantly on microvascular endothelium and epidermal dendritic cells, and among the mediators tested, this induction was caused exclusively by immune interferon. Increased reactivity for HLA-DR and DQ was observed at 24 hours for both cell types. Double labeling confirmed that the HLA-DR/DQ-positive dendritic cell population consisted largely of T6-positive Langerhans cells. Peak endothelial HLA-DR expression was seen at 24 hours and slowly dissipated thereafter. In contrast, endothelial HLA-DQ showed increasing expression over 72 hours of the study. Keratinocytes remained unreactive for HLA-DR and DQ during the entire study period. We conclude that class II major histocompatibility molecules can be modulated on skin microvascular endothelial cells and Langerhans cells in situ by immune interferon with response rates different from those previously described for endothelium in cell culture. Furthermore, the organ culture system has revealed keratinocyte unresponsiveness not anticipated from cell culture experiments. These findings have implications for the effector function and potential targeting of these cells in the cutaneous immune response, and establishes short-term organ culture of human skin as a valuable model for assessment of interactions between cytokines and skin cells.


Colleges and universities have to reform their course examination in facing higher education popularization and knowledge economy. This paper analyses the drawbacks of current course test in higher education institution, and makes useful exploration on test innovation in future.


Two novel alkyl substituted pyridium bromide quaternary ammonium salts(3a and 3b)were synthesized by alkylation reaction of nicotinamide(1) with 1-bromooctane(2a) or 1-bromodecane,respectively. The structures were characterized by1 H NMR,13 C NMR,IR and HR-MS(MALDI). Under the optimum reaction conditions[1 10 mmol,n(2a) ∶ n(1) = 1. 2,in alcohol at 78 ℃for 4 h],the yield of 3a was 69%.


The article analyzes organization models of innovative processes and instruments to implement them. The analysis is performed to identify opportunities to reduce the duration of the innovation process and get real data to compare, to weigh and assess the direct profits from the use of information technology in business


Isorhapontigenin (ISO), the dominant active compound of the Chinese herb Gnetum cleistostachyum, has been shown for hundreds of years to exhibit several significant anti-cancer activities, and could possibly inhibit the proliferation of bladder cancer cells. However, details regarding the mechanism of its action are not well defined, especially regarding its regulation of the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) of urothelial carcinoma antigen 1 (UCA1). To address this issue, human bladder cancer cell strain 5637 was chosen, and cell proliferation activity was assayed with a gradient of ISO for different treatment durations to screen for the optimal treatment concentration and duration. Subsequently, the mRNA expression level of UCA1 was assayed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), cell cycle was assayed by flow cytometry, cell migration activity was assayed by a cell wound healing test, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 expression level was determined by RT-qPCR and western blot analysis. As expected, with increasing concentrations of ISO, the survival rate of 5637 cells was significantly decreased, and treatment with 20 μM ISO for 72 h was validated as an optimal condition. After treatment with 20 μM ISO for 72 h, the mRNA expression level of UCA1 was significantly decreased, the cell cycle was significantly altered with a significant increase in the percentage of cells in G0/G1 phase, and a significant decrease in those in S and G2/M. Moreover, cell migration capacity was significantly decreased, and the mRNA and protein expression levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was significantly decreased. These results indicate that ISO could inhibit the proliferation of human bladder cells via downregulation of lncRNA of UCA1, and further downregulation of the cell cycle, cell migration, MMP-2, and MMP-9, not only providing a significant reference for studying the mechanism of human bladder cancer treatment, but also providing potential clinical value.


This research presents a model of organizational responses to customer complaints, detailing how customers evaluate those responses through the mediating effects of perceived justice and satisfaction and estimates the impact of those responses on post-complaint customer behavior. The results provide plausible support for the model. The relationship between the organizational responses and the perceived justice dimensions (distributive, procedural, and interactional) was largely validated, showing that consumers could differentiate between an organizational response, and how they felt about such a response. However, the effect of some of the relationships between the perceived justice dimensions and postcomplaint customer behavior were largely indirect through the satisfaction variable. This research provides empirical evidence for this important area of research, thereby furthering our understanding of customer perceptions of complaint handling techniques. The model allows managers to accurately estimate consumer post-complaint repurchase behavior based on organizational response levels, thus allowing complaint handling optimization.


In contrast to normal differentiated cells that depend on mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation for energy production, cancer cells have evolved to utilize aerobic glycolysis (Warburg9s effect), with benefit of providing intermediates for biomass production. MicroRNA-122 (miR-122) is highly expressed in normal liver tissue regulating a wide variety of biological processes including cellular metabolism, but is reduced in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Overexpression of miR-122 was shown to inhibit cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, and increase chemosensitivity, but its functions in cancer metabolism remains unknown. The present study aims to identify the miR-122 targeted genes and to investigate the associated regulatory mechanisms in HCC metabolism. We found the ectopic overexpression of miR-122 affected metabolic activities of HCC cells, evidenced by the reduced lactate production and increased oxygen consumption. Integrated gene expression analysis in a cohort of 94 HCC tissues revealed miR-122 level tightly associated with a battery of glycolytic genes, in which pyruvate kinase (PK) gene showed the strongest anti-correlation coefficient (Pearson r = -0.6938, p = Citation Format: Zhi Xu, Angela Liu, Nikki Lee, Jinfei Chen, John M. Luk. miR-122 targets pyruvate kinase M2 and affects metabolism of hepatocellular carcinoma. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 3352. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-3352


Background: Anemia is a common complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Observational studies indicate that low Hb levels in such patients may increase risk for progression of kidney disease and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Objective: The aim of the work is to study the different risk factors contributing to anemia in preend stage renal disease patients (stage 3 and 4 CKD). Subjects and methods: The study involved 50 patients with history of CKD, not receiving any treatment or dialysis, 29 men and 21 women, 22-72 years old. In addition to 20 healthy persons as a control group. They were randomly selected from the outpatient clinics and inpatient department of Internal Medicine Departments, Al-Azhar Assiut University Hospitals over a period of two years. Results: There were different risk factors causing anemia among patients group; 1-Anorexia was present in (44%) of patients, 2-Fecal occult blood test was positive in (6%) of patients, 3-The indicators of inflammation including high levels of CRP, ESR (were high in 100%) and serum ferritin was high in (80%) of patients, 4-The indicators of "uremic milieu" including increased level of blood urea and S. creatinine and moderate to severe albuminuria in addition to decreased level of GFR, all were present in (100%) of patients, and 5-erythropoietin deficiency also was present in (54%) of patients. Conclusion: Our study concluded that anemia in pre end stage renal disease (ESRD) is multifactorial and the prevalence of different risk factors is inversely correlated with hemoglobin level.


Recently, a variety of S,N-heterocycles has been developed to the useful and practical drugs in agrochemicals and medicines. Under this circumstance , we paid our attention to these heterocycles as screening target compounds , to create new bioactive heterocycles. As a methodology to search for the new lead compounds , we focussed on the synthetic development of S,N-heterocycles. In result, this synthetic approach led to the generation of heterocycles with either the insecticidal or the anti-PAF activity. On the basis of their structureactivity relationships , these heterocycles were extended to the optimized compounds leading to novel bioactive heterocycles , triazolobenzothiazoles and thiazolidin-4-ones. In this article , the synthetic approach to S, N-heterocycles with biological activities is described.


We have recently documented the existence of a cross-talk between platelet integrins α2β1 and αIIbβ3 involving phospholipase C (PLC)-mediated activation of the small GTPase Rap1b (Bernardi B et al, Blood2006; 107:2728–35). Here we report that integrin α2β1-mediated platelet adhesion to monomeric collagen and to other specific ligands, such as decorin and collagen-derived peptides, actually induced a robust activation of PLC, evaluated as phosphorylation of pleckstrin, the main platelet substrate for protein kinase C. This was paralleled by a robust tyrosine phosphorylation of the PLCγ2. We found that inhibition of Src kinases by PP2 completely abolished integrin α2β1-promoted PLCγ2 tyrosine phosphorylation, but did not affect either Rap1b stimulation or integrin αIIbβ3 activation in adherent platelets. Surprisingly, phosphorylation of pleckstrin occurred normally under conditions in which tyrosine phosphorylation of PLCγ2 was totally suppressed. The Src-kinase-independent PLC activity in integrin α2β1-adherent cells was not inhibited by pretreatment of platelets with aspirin and apyrase, excluding any possible contribution of Gq-regulated PLCβ isoforms stimulated by released thromboxane A2 or secreted ADP. In addition, PLC-dependent activation of Rap1b and integrin αIIbβ3 were not affected by aspirin and apyrase. Phosphorylation of pleckstrin induced by adhesion to monomeric collagen was not detected in platelets from PLCγ2 knockout mice, confirming that this was the only isoform activated downstream of integrin α2β1. In addition, mouse platelets lacking PLCγ2 showed impaired integrin α2β1-mediated outside-in signaling, and were unable to promote both GTP binding to Rap1b and integrin αIIbβ3 activation. These results indicate that although PLCγ2 is the only PLC isoform stimulated downstream integrin α2β1 and is responsible for the cross-talk to integrin αIIbβ3 through the small GTPase Rap1b, its activation in adherent platelets can occur independently of Src-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation. A recent work has reported that, in vitro, the activity of PLCγ2, but not that of PLCγ1, can be stimulated by the active, GTP-bound form of the small GTPase Rac, with a mechanism independent of phosphorylation on tyrosine residues (Piechlek T el al, J Biol Chem2005; 208:38923–31). In platelets adherent through integrin α2β1, Rac was found to be activated upstream PLC. Activation of Rac was efficiently prevented by the inhibitor NSC23766, which is able to bind and block Rac-specific GEFs. In integrin α2β1-adherent platelets, inhibition of Rac by NSC23766 did not affect PLCγ2 tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of PLC and Rap1b. However, upon inhibition of Src kinases by PP2 and consequent prevention of PLCγ2 tyrosine phosphorylation, NSC23766 almost completely abolished PLC activation, GTP binding to Rap1b and integrin αIIbβ3 stimulation. These results demonstrate that PLCγ2 is the main PLC isoform involved in integrin α2β1-mediated activation of Rap1b and integrin αIIbβ3, and that its activation can occur through two alternative mechanisms involving either tyrosine phosphorylation or stimulation by Rac GTPase.


Background: Medication nonadherence predicts poor outcomes among patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). Understanding differences in adherence rates among non-vitamin K oral anticoa...


A research of W band microstrip integrated high order frequency multiplier based on avalanche diode is presented. The associated nonlinear model of avalanche diode driven by external RF signals for high order frequency multiplication is presented and analyzed according to the physical property of avalanche diode. Subsequently the circuit of microstrip integrated high order multiplier is analyzed. In experiment, maximum output power of 6.5 mW with the efficiency of about 0.62% is obtained at output frequency of 94.5 GHz with 15th multiplication order. The phase noise of output 94.5 GHz signal is about −90.83 dBc/Hz and −95.67 dBc/Hz at 10 KHz and 100 KHz offset.


Abstract Transformation of the urban environment, forcing people to leave their homes either temporarily or permanently, is a widespread phenomenon in the Western world. To those whose homes are affected, the process often has a strong emotional meaning. This article shows how various contributions to a sociology of emotions together can deepen our knowledge of the socio‐psychological mechanisms that lie behind elderly people's greatly varying emotional experiences of housing renewal and forced relocation. Mechanisms regarding five groups of emotions are presented: (1) trust, mistrust, security and insecurity, (2) powerlessness, self‐estrangement and belonging, (3) guilt, shame, pride and dignity, (4) the feeling of having been violated, and (5) stress. An intensive interview study of elderly people in three neighbourhoods in a middle‐sized Swedish town is presented, showing how these mechanisms are expressed in the encounter between the housing renewal process and the everyday life of elderly people. The...


By using computer tomography(CT)instrument,the X-ray shielding property of nylon 6 composite with high tungsten concentration was investigated.The results showed that the X-ray shielding of the nylon 6 composite increased as the thickness density increased.Moreover,the test results observed the Lambert-Beer law.In addition,nylon 6 composite(density of 10.3 g/cm3)had similar X-ray shielding effect with lead.


This article provided the following definition of the terms «personnel policies», «politics», «policy», «HR», «staff», «personnel»; perechyslenni and describes the types of personnel policy, such as employment policy, education policy, remuneration policies, industrial relations policy, welfare policy; lists the components that form the personnel policy; highlights actions that provide a comprehensive understanding of personnel policy; comparison of the concepts of «personnel policies» and «HR»; analysis of recent research and publications, and perechyslenni world scholars and domestic scholars; Set urgency described formulation of the problem and the ways to solve it


In a recent paper (Ref. 1) the principles of System and User optimization were introduced and discussed for alternate routing telephone networks. (A System optimized network design is obtained by minimising the total cost of the network. subject to Origin to Destination grade of service standards. A User optimized network design is achieved by minimising the cost per erlang on chains used by each OD pair). An algorithm for determining these optimal network designs has been developed (Ref. 2). which is based upon a modification to a well known non-linear programming algorithm proposed by Wolfe (Ref. 3) • A mathematical model for dimensioning alternate rputing networks developed by Berry (Ref. 6) has been used in conjunction with the optimizing algorithm to obtain network designs based on the two principles. The purpose of this paper is to compare the two different network designs obtained by applying these optimizing principles to the Adelaide Telephone Network.


The invention relates to the technical field of dye fixing agents and provides a cation type formaldehyde-free dye fixing agent for an activated dye. Through the adoption of the cation type formaldehyde-free dye fixing agent, the wet friction firmness and the color fastness to washing of fabric can be better improved. The cation type formaldehyde-free dye fixing agent is prepared by the following raw material ingredients in parts by weight: 50-60 parts of dimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride, 0.2-10 parts of monomers containing tertiary ammonium groups, 0.1-5 parts of a crosslinker, 0.01-0.3 part of an initiator and 30-48 parts of deionized water, wherein the dimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride is a water solution of which the mass percentage concentration is 60+/-0.5% or 65+/-0.5%. The invention further provides a preparation method for the cation type formaldehyde-free fixing agent for the activated dye.


The invention relates to a detection method and a detection device for a mobile terminal posture and belongs to the technical field of image processing. The detection device comprises a front positioned camera, a rear positioned camera and an application processor, wherein the front and rear positioned cameras are respectively connected with the application processor. The moving and rotating generated by view images shot by the front and rear positioned cameras when a mobile terminal is changed in position and posture are utilized to monitor the displacement and rotary angle of the front and rear view images, and the image displacement and rotary angle are converted into position deflection and posture change values, so the measuring on the mobile terminal posture is realized. According to the detection method and detection device, the detection sensitivity of the position change and posture change of the mobile terminal is improved, and meanwhile, man-machine interaction can be performed by utilizing limber actions of a person by the mobile terminal without increasing the power consumption, volume and the cost of the mobile terminal.


The Jewish community in Sydney transported
their Anglo-Jewish tradition to the other side of the world.
In 1878 they built The Great Synagogue, a house of
worship that reflected their origins and aspirations, the
background of their architect, and prevailing attitudes to
synagogue design in the 19th century. This paper describes
how the design of the Great Synagogue derived from all of
its sources, and how the building has changed in the last
130 years and continues to change in responses to the
sometimes competing requirements of function, liturgy and
community attitudes. It also demonstrates how the tangible
qualities of the building and intangible qualities, such as
the music of the service and the dress of the clergy and
congregation, contribute to how the traditional and historic
character of the Great Synagogue is perceived in its present
community.


Systematic photography and radiography of poussin's paintings was undertaken to establish the state of conservation. Radiographs revealed the nature of poussin's canvases, as many of these had been covered during relining treatments.


Abstract An advanced controls class taught at both the Georgia Institute of Technology and the Tokyo Institute of Technology focuses on command generation, remote manipulation, and human interaction with control systems. To aid in teaching these concepts, a portable tower crane was constructed. The tower crane can follow pre-programmed trajectories or be driven manually. It can also be operated from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. The crane can perform both feedback and command shaping anti-swing control while measuring trolley position and payload swing. The system enables students to perform a variety of useful and interesting laboratories and student projects. The students participated in and studied the effects of remote operator behavior, non-linear system dynamics, and advanced command generation techniques. The paper describes the tower crane and the results of this new educational endeavor.


Ten-day-old chickens infected with an avian osteopetrosis virus [MAV-2(O)] were more susceptible to challenge with Listeria monocytogenes than virus-free chickens, as demonstrated by reduced bacterial clearance from their spleens. Reduced clearance of L. monocytogenes was observed throughout a 26-day period after MAV-2(O) infection.


Abstract The aim of this work is to establish an alternate criterion of the category of localized modules in terms of the companion category related to static modules. It is proved that under certain conditions both categories are essentially the same.


This study describes seventeen non-geniculate coralline algal species (orders Corallinales, Hapalidiales and Sporolithales) from the middle Miocene (lower-middle Badenian) red-algal limestones of the Transylvanian Basin, Gârbova de Sus Formation. For the description and identification at species level, we follow the common diagnostic features used for fossil species and some characters that are used as diagnostic for modern species (roof morphology for asexual conceptacles, the presence/absence of a layer of elongated cells below sporangial compartments and number of cells in paraphyses for Sporolithon, and measurements of gametangial and carposporangial conceptacles). Female conceptacles of Spongites fruticulosus Kutzing are for the first time described in fossil material. We propose the attribution of Lithophyllum platticarpum Maslov to Spongites fruticulosus Kutzing as a gametangial thallus with male conceptacles.


L U I G I CROCCO.2 The question of two-phase flow in ducts is still in a rather incomplete state, even in the most specifically defined case where the two phases are distributed concentrically in a round pipe. The author is therefore to be complimented for his investigation on this kind of flow and for the definite contribution he brings on some aspects of the underlying mechanism. He has concentrated his attention mainly on the transition from laminar to turbulent conditions in an annular liquid film surrounding a gaseous stream. Substantially, what ho has done is to determine under various gas-fiow conditions and with liquids of different properties the range of critical liquid flow rates at which disturbances were first observed on the film surface, and to compare a nondimensional flow-rate parameter corresponding to these critical rates with the values of the same flow-rate parameter computed for the same liquid and in a single-phase boundary layer in the region where transition from laminar to turbulent conditions takes place. The important result is that the two values coincide reasonably well, with the somewhat unexpected conclusion that the critical flow rate at which film instability begins does not depend on the conditions of the gas stream, and is simply proportional to the diameter of the pipe and to the


Effects of radio-frequency power and driven frequency on the two-dimensional (axial and radial) distributions of electron density and temperature were experimentally investigated in low pressure capacitively coupled argon plasmas. The intensity profiles of 696.5 nm and 750.4 nm emission lines were detected by employing a spatially resolved diagnostic system, which consists of a charge coupled device (CCD) and bandpass interference filters. The two-dimensional distributions of electron density and electron temperature were calculated from the spatial distributions of emission intensities via a collisional radiative model (CRM). It is found that the axial and radial distributions of electron density are more uniform at a lower RF power. The axial uniformity of electron density is better at a lower driven frequency, while the radial profiles of electron temperature is flatter at a higher excitation frequency. In all the cases, the electron temperature is extremely uniform in the bulk plasma. Moreover, a mode transition from the {\alpha} to the {\gamma} mode is observed with the increase of input RF power at 13.56 MHz, which causes a significant increase of electron density and an abrupt decrease of electron temperature.


The introduction of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors into clinical medicine is a fascinating story, eloquently told by Maren.' Sulfanilamide was the first inhibitor to be used, but was soon replaced by acetazolamide, the principal drug of this class even today after thirty years of use. Other inhibitors, foe example methazolamide, dichlorphenamide, and ethoxzolamide, with slightly different properties2 mainly due to higher lipid solubilities compared to acetazolamide, are also available for clinical use. The main indication for the use of these inhibitors is in ophthalmology where more than 95% of all prescriptions are made.3 Other clinical uses and the probable mechanism behind the therapeutic effects are listed in TABLE 1. However, a discussion of the documentation behind the claims for these therapeutic effects lies outside the scope of this paper. In the present paper, the rationale for the use of these inhibitors in ophthalmology will be given. Therapeutic effects will be considered in relation to the many side reactions observed. A picture will hopefully emerge showing that for this class of agents, the mechanism of action for the therapeutic effects and side reactions can be explained at a depth rarely seen for other drugs.


PurposeThe objective of this research was to develop a new and highly accurate approach based on a fuzzy inference system (FIS) for the evaluation of usability based on ISO 9241-210:2019. In this study, a fully automated method of usability evaluation is used for interactive systems with a special look at interactive social robots.Design/methodology/approachFuzzy logic uses as an intelligent computing technique to deal with uncertainty and incomplete data. Here this system is implemented using MATLAB fuzzy toolbox. This system attempted to quantify four criteria that correlate highly with ISO 9241-210:2019 criteria for the evaluation of interactive systems with maximum usability. Also, the system was evaluated with standard cases of computer interactive systems usability evaluation. The system did not need to train various data and to check the rules. Just small data were used to fine-tune the fuzzy sets. The results were compared against experimental usability evaluation with the statistical analysis.FindingsIt is found that there was a high strong linear relation between the FIS usability assessment and System Usability Scale (SUS) based usability assessment, and authors' new method provides reliable results in the estimation of the usability.Research limitations/implicationsIn human-robot systems, human performance plays an important role in the performance of social interactive systems. In the present study, the proposed system has considered all the necessary criteria for designing an interactive system with a high level of user because it is based on ISO 9241-210:2019.Practical implicationsFor future research, the system could be expanded with the training of historical data and the production of rules through integrating FIS and neural networks.Originality/valueThis system considered all essential criteria for designing an interactive system with a high level of usability because it is based on ISO 9241-210:2019. For future research, the system could be expanded with the training of historical data and the production of rules through integrating FIS and neural networks.


The reasons for JZ 7 brakes out of work are analysed.The methods of rain proof,dampproof and cleaning the anvil cinder in the air passage are presented.


Introduction. The influence of the dental apparatus on the balance of the body in an upright position has been widely discussed in the literature for several decades. Examination of the patient taking into account his postural balance makes it possible to clarify the reasons for the low effectiveness of pain syndromes treatment of the craniocervical region caused by malocclusion, as well as ineffective correction of musculoskeletal dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint (MSD TMJ) associated with posture disorders.The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment of patients with dental anomalies and musculoskeletal dysfunctions of the temporomandibular joint and concomitant somatic dysfunctions (if any) by methods of orthodontic and osteopathic correction.Materials and methods. The study involved 102 patients aged from 18 to 45 years with TMJ. All patients underwent orthodontic and osteopathic examination. 3 groups of patients were formed: № 1 — exclusively with dental anomalies TMJ (occlusive dysfunction), who received only orthodontic treatment, № 2 with concomitant somatic (extra-occlusive) dysfunctions, who received only orthodontic treatment, and №3 with concomitant somatic (extra-occlusive) dysfunctions, who received both orthodontic and osteopathic treatment. Orthodontic treatment of musculoskeletal dysfunction of the TMJ consisted of the occlusive kappa manufacturing. Osteopathic correction was carried out individually, taking into account the identified somatic dysfunctions, on average 3 sessions. Patients also received drug therapy, and they performed myohymnastics for the masticatory muscles. The clinical dysfunction index (Helkimo M.) was used to control the elimination dynamics of the TMJ's musculoskeletal dysfunction symptoms. The assessment of the pain dynamics in the TMJ was carried out by a visual-analog scale (VAS). The evaluation of the osteopathic treatment effectiveness was carried out on the basis of computer stabilometry data and osteopathic examination data. A stabilometric study was performed on the «ST-150» («Biomera») stabiloplatform in the Romberg sample (European foot installation) with open and closed eyes in two positions of the lower jaw: 1) in a state of physiological rest (tooth rows are separated); 2) in the kappa with closed tooth rows.Results. The MSD TMJ symptoms were eliminated 10 weeks after the start of treatment in all (100 %) patients of group № 1 and group № 3. Among the patients in group № 2, only 12,1 % of patients had complete absence of MSD TMJ symptoms, while all patients in this group had a statistically significant decrease in the clinical index of Helkimo dysfunction. In one third of the group № 2 patients on the 12th week of orthodontic treatment, headaches and/or pains in other parts of the musculoskeletal system (neck, back, shoulders, arms) prevailed among complaints and which were previously indicated in the anamnesis. This occurred after the elimination of the MSD TMJ symptoms. The absolute majority of patients in group № 3 (97,1 %) noted the complete disappearance of headaches and/or pains in other parts of the musculoskeletal system (neck, back, shoulders, arms). Also, in patients of this group, stabilometric indicators were normalized in a state of physiological rest and in the kappa.Conclusion. Patients with somatic dysfunctions need complex treatment with the participation of an osteopath and a dentist. When assessing the osteopathic status of a patient, it is important to determine whether the patient has only occlusive dysfunctions or there are also extra-occlusive ones. Additional osteopathic correction is recommended for patients with extraocclusive dysfunctions in order to achieve treatment results comparable in effectiveness and timing.


Companies protecting the interest of stakeholders in social performance and there is compulsion on these companies to report their social responsible activities and practices for getting the support from the public. Some organizations in Kerala published the report on their social activities in their websites also. These type of initiatives will boost the performance of companies in the market. This study focused studying the association between CSR and performance of Kerala based companies. Here, multiple regression and correlation approach has been used to know the relationship between financial performance and CSR initiatives of the companies in Kerala. Results of this study shows that there is association between CSR and Sales of Kerala companies and financial progressive companies are willing to invest in CSR also. So it is concluded that more companies will come forward for CSR initiatives in Kerala.


Pilot-scale research into the characterization and enhancement of the aerobic digestion of waste-activated sludges was performed. Waste sludge from two sources was aerobically digested at varying o...


The establishment of taking the people as the fundation marks the change of the idea of taking the class as the foundation. The establishment of scientifical, democratical and legal ruling idea marks a great leap in CPC's ruling idea. Finally, the establishment of a ruling idea with harmony, channel, conformity and stability shows that CPC puts the harmony of personel eviornment, the benefit coordination of many parts and the cooperation of social administration on a protruding position.


Fertilization is the process of sperm‐egg interaction leading to a permanent block to polyspermy and re‐initiation of the cell cycle. Release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum is the integral molecular mechanism responsible for activation of fertilization; however, the molecular players involved in the initiation and regulation of the Ca2+ release are not well‐established in any organism. Research in the fertilization field has been hampered due to difficulty in studying the sperm‐egg cell system. Eggs and sperm of the starfish Patiria miniata present an attractive model to study the molecular aspects of fertilization due to the ease of obtaining millions of viable sperm and eggs, as well as, their amenability to in vitro fertilization and biochemical assays. However, the lack of specific antibodies for the identification of proteins in the starfish model system has delayed discovery. To address this deficiency, we produced the first P. miniata egg transcriptome by de novo RNA sequencing, which will allow us to predict which proteins could be present and function in controlling the fertilization signaling pathway. The goal of this project is to annotate the starfish egg transcriptome and categorize the transcripts into known protein families. We present evidence for the presence of all major signaling pathways and confirm biologically‐relevant RNAs via RT‐PCR against freshly isolated starfish egg RNA. This work will be used to establish a potential proteome for the identification of proteins that may function in the fertilization signaling pathway.


Informational aesthetic measures can quantify the quality of images in terms of information content. Using such measures we can automatically select the "better" solution from two alternatives, or maximizing the aesthetic measure, the "best" option can be found. Such approaches can replace lengthy user interaction sequences tuning camera or light source parameters and automatically propose good camera and lighting settings. In stereoscopic imaging one of the goals is to provide depth perception, so the quality of such images can be characterized by the information of depth obtained by human observers. In this paper, we propose an algorithm to measure the depth information of a stereo image pair, which is based on the entropy of the disparity map, and also takes into account perceptual metrics. With the proposed measures, the parameters of a stereoscopic virtual camera can be optimized, including, for example, the interocular distance.


We derive in this paper a unified framework for a priori and a posteriori error analysis of mixed finite element discretizations of second-order elliptic problems. It is based on the classical primal weak formulation, the postprocessing of the potential proposed in [T. Arbogast and Z. Chen, On the implementation of mixed methods as nonconforming methods for second-order elliptic problems, Math. Comp. 64 (1995), 943-972], and the discrete Friedrichs inequality. Our analysis in particular avoids any explicit use of the uniform discrete inf-sup condition and in a straightforward manner and under minimal necessary assumptions, known convergence and superconvergence results are recovered. The same framework then turns out to lead to optimal a posteriori energy error bounds. In particular, estimators for all families and orders of mixed finite element methods on grids consisting of simplices or rectangular parallelepipeds are derived. They give a guaranteed and fully computable upper bound on the energy error, represent error local lower bounds, and are robust under some conditions on the diffusion-dispersion tensor. They are thus suitable for both overall error control and adaptive mesh refinement. Moreover, the developed abstract framework and a posteriori error estimates are quite general and apply to any locally conservative method. We finally prove that in parallel and simultaneously in converse to Galerkin finite element methods, under some circumstances, the weak solution is the orthogonal projection of the postprocessed mixed finite element approximation onto the H 1 0 (Ω) space and also establish several links between mixed finite element approximations and some generalized weak solutions.


ABSTRACT Several studies show that retailers experience favorable outcomes if consumers use multiple channels. Thus, retailers aim to encourage consumers to do so in a convenient way by offering multi-channel technologies (MCTs). However, not much is known about what affects a positive attitude toward such technologies. Our study investigates how different risk perceptions influence the attitude toward specific MCTs in comparison (check and reserve, click and collect, availability check). Moreover, we examine whether the customer's general purchase channel preference moderates these effects. Results show that three risk dimensions have significant impacts on the attitude toward MCTs. These effects are generally worst for click and collect, as the negative effects (product quality and data risk) are highest, while the positive effect (product availability risk) is lowest, compared to the other two MCTs. Additionally, we generally find that the more a customer prefers buying via the online channel, the weaker the effects of the risk dimensions on the attitude are. Our findings provide implications on how to improve consumers' attitudes toward the selected MCTs by influencing their perceptions of different risk dimensions.


An index coupled antireflection-coated distributed-feedback (DFB)-laser diode which theoretically exhibits a longitudinally uniform power density is proposed. The structure contains an amplitude modulated grating and is far more efficient in reducing spatial hole burning than multiphase-shift lasers. The laser can be expected to be single mode up to high power levels. It can be of interest when long lasers with a reduced linewidth and a flat FM response are to be used or as a laser with small modulation distortion in analog communication.<<ETX>>


There exist a great deal of new risk management problems to be resolved in the process of establishment, operation and dissolution of the dynamic alliance of the enterprise. Taking risk preventative control as the core and on the basis of risk identification and evaluation of the dynamic alliance of the enterprise, the new-type of organizational risk prevention framwork system is established and the method about risk pre-control is introduced basing on the dynamic contract system in order to offer support and reference for risk management practice of the dynamic alliance.


In this, the third paper on the littoral Rotifera of Ontario, 12 species belonging to the genus Lepadella, including some rare species, are presented. Short descriptions, measurements, and detailed drawings, showing variation, where necessary, are given. Of the 12 species reported, 8 are new records for Canada.


Shear thickening in a fluid occurs when the viscosity of the fluid increases with the increasing applied strain rate. When the rise in viscosity occurs by orders of magnitude, the fluid undergoes discontinuous shear thickening, which can be devastating in industrial applications. We present a particle-scale numerical technique that can simulate these phenomena. By coupling the discrete element method (DEM) and lattice Boltzmann method (LBM), we developed a micromechanical model that can simulate the interparticle stresses for particles that are immersed in a fluid. A comparison of the simulation results against the experimental results reported in the literature demonstrates the potential of the method as a research tool. The comparison included parametric studies to investigate the effects of solid fraction, particle-particle, and particle-wall contact stiffness. With a systematic variation of the wall stiffness, the DEM-LBM model demonstrates that increasing boundary stiffness directly increases the max...


The condensation of a pure fluid (R134a) and of a a zeotropic mixture (R134a/R23) outside an horizontal bundle of finned tubes have been studied to understand the behaviour of the new refrigerants. Experimental results with pure R134a and several compositions of mixture R134a/R23 have been obtained during condensation on a bundle equipped with finned tubes of three different types: K26 (1024-fpm), K19(748-fpm), K11(433-fpm). The experimental data show the important effect of fin spacing and the reduced impact of inundation effect on thermal performance. A comparison of the heat transfer coefficient of the different tubes has been made. The experimental data have also been compared to values calculated with the classical Bell & Ghaly model and a good agreement has been noticed.


This research investigates e-learning in higher education during the global COVID-19 epidemic. This airborne virus has affected the daily lives, social interactions and education of highly populated cities. Universities have faced many challenges in this pandemic to reduce likelihood of infection in the highly dense student population; by transitioning from traditional teaching to e-learning. The University of Sulaimani, based in Kurdistan Region of Iraq suspended the majority of classes on campus to reduce rates of infection. The adaptation of using e-learning system was novel for the University of Sulaimani, due to socio-economic factors, and lack of experience. This study employed a quantitative approach, by using a self-report questionnaire for collecting primary data. The data has been collected via an online survey in the University of Sulaimani to analyse the e-learning experience, from students and teaching staff perspective during COVID-19 pandemic. The results revealed a variety of factors impacting on the e-learning experience. This included a lack of facilities ICT infrastructures, e-resources and access to the internet. Thus, the ICT infrastructure needs to be updated with e-resources and appropriate IT facilities, with support for students who do not have access to electronic equipment. In this way e-learning would be successfully deployed in higher education during any crises, such as COVID-19 pandemic. CCS CONCEPTS • Applied computing • Education • E-learning


Economic modeling of labor force formation processes determines the social - the change in the value of higher professional education in the consciousness of society, which predetermines the social background of consumer choice; on the other hand, economic - the modern economic consciousness of the society makes it possible to talk about the influence of the basic criteria of rational choice on consumer Preferences, including in the examination of educational services of higher professional education As the economic private and public good, and the third - demographic, as a basis for the formation of the consumer sector of the market of educational services of higher professional education. All three aspects of the process under consideration are separately defined as the social, economic and demographic models of labor force formation, respectively. Their actual interaction makes it possible to draw a conclusion about the invariable qualitative integration within the framework of a complex dynamic socio-economic system, as well as the possibility of a qualitative and holistic description only when considered within the system.


In situ prepared trimethylsilyl iodide is found to be an efficient catalyst for the vinylogous Mukaiyama aldol reaction of furan (I) with various aldehydes.


ABSTRACT Accurately quantifying the aboveground biomass (AGB) of forests is crucial for understanding global change-related issues such as the carbon cycle and climate change. Many studies have estimated AGB from multiple remotely sensed datasets using various algorithms, but substantial uncertainties remain in AGB predictions. In this study, we aim to explore whether diverse algorithms stacked together are able to improve the accuracy of AGB estimates. To build the stacking framework, five base learners were first selected from a series of algorithms, including multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS), support vector regression (SVR), multilayer perceptron (MLP) model, random forests (RF), extremely randomized trees (ERT), stochastic gradient boosting (SGB), gradient-boosted regression tree (GBRT) algorithm, and categorical boosting (CatBoost), based on diversity and accuracy metrics. Ridge and RF were utilized as the meta learner to combine the outputs of base learners. In addition, six important features were selected according to the feature importance values provided by the CatBoost, ERT, GBRT, SGB, MARS and RF algorithms as inputs of the meta learner in the stacking process. We then used stacking models with 3–5 selected base learners and ridge or RF to estimate AGB. The AGB data compiled from plot-level forest AGB, high-resolution AGB data derived from field and lidar data and the corresponding predictor variables extracted from the satellite-derived leaf area index, net primary production, forest canopy height, tree cover data, and Global Multiresolution Terrain Elevation Data 2010, as well as climate data, were randomly split into groups of 80% for training the model and 20% for model evaluation. The evaluation results showed that stacking generally outweighed the optimal base learner and provided improved AGB estimations, mainly by decreasing the bias. All stacking models had relative improvement (RI) values in bias of at least 22.12%, even reaching more than 90% under some scenarios, except for deciduous broadleaf forests, where an optimal algorithm could provide low biased estimations. In contrast, the improvements of stacking in R2 and RMSE were not significant. The stacking of MARS, MLP, and SVR provided improved results compared with the optimal base learner, and the average RI in R2 was 3.54% when we used all data without separating forest types. Finally, the optimal stacking model was used to generate global forest AGB maps.


In the present studies, the concentrations (mammary tissue and plasma) of estrone (E1), estradiol (E2) and their sulfates (E1S and E2S), as well as the sulfatase and aromatase activities, were evaluated in patients with breast fibroadenomas. Comparative studies of the evaluation of these parameters were carried out in: (A) tumor tissue, (B) areas surrounding the tumor and (C) areas distant from the tumor (glandular tissue) considered as normal tissue. The concentrations in the tumor tissue (in pmol/g tissue) of E1, E2, and E1S were significantly higher (2–3 times) than in the area of the breast considered as normal. Sulfatase and aromatase activities were found in the breast fibroadenoma tissue. Sulfatase activity was much higher than aromatase (30–150 times) and sulfatase levels were significantly higher in the fibroadenoma tissue than in the area considered as normal. Plasma evaluation of E1, E2, E1S and E2S concentrations showed no significant differences in relation to those of healthy control women. In conclusion, the high levels of estrogens and their sulfates, as well as the enzymes involved in estrogen formation—sulfatase and aromatase in breast fibroadenoma—contribute to the hypothesis that this disease may be hormone‐dependent. Int. J. Cancer 70:639–643, 1997. © 1997 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.


UAV remote control driving mode relative to the program-controlled way, in the time delay, scenarios, data link performance optimization and flight control and other aspects of the higher requirements, and these factors have become troubled UAV remote control driving development and application the essential. Based on the results of UAV technology to verify the ground closed-loop test of the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, the key technical difficulties faced by the remote control driving of UAV are analyzed with the emphasis on time delay and data link performance. Technical solution and the use of ground closed-loop test environment to verify and finally the use of manned flight quality standards proposed a preliminary UAV flight quality evaluation method.


Malignant melanoma (MM) is a tumor with high metastatic potential. The small intestine is the third most common metastasis area for MM. Intestinal obstruction, intussusception, hemorrhage, and perforation have been determined as the clinical presentation in patients who were admitted to the hospital because of abdominal pain, weakness, constipation, weight loss, and palpable abdominal mass. Presentation as perforation is rarer than the other clinical presentations. We report the case of a patient with metastatic MM, who attended the emergency department because of acute abdomen. Perforation and invagination due to metastatic lesions were cured by surgical intervention. Possible metastasis should be considered in patients with active complaints or in patients scheduled for emergency intervention, as in our case, if there is a history of MM. Possible metastasis should be considered in preoperative planning, information, and anticipation of the operative procedure.


It has been reported 1 that the prothrombin deficiency produced in rats by a diet containing 20% mineral oil was corrected by vitamin K, and definitely improved by vitamin D administration. Previously, Smith and coworkers 2 had reported that vitamin D failed to improve the prothrombin deficiency in a biliary fistula dog, and Greaves 3 stated that massive doses of D subcutaneously were without benefit in biliary fistula rats. However, vitamin D has been shown to be of value in treating the bleeding tendency in clinical jaundice. 4 In view of these conflicting reports, we have further investigated the effect of vitamin D on prothrombin deficiency in the rat. A prothrombin deficiency was produced in 36 normal rats by means of the diet described by Eliot. Isaacs and Ivy 1 (Table I, Group 1). Quick's method 5 for the estimation of prothrombin was used. After 29-52 days on the diet, the prothrombin time was prolonged from an average normal of 17.6 seconds to a mean of 59.7 seconds. Eighteen rats whose prothrombin times had been increased by the diet from a normal average of 18.0 seconds to 53.4 seconds were given 500 units of vitamin D∗ subcutaneously. One week later the average prothrombin time of the group was 55.4 seconds (Table I, Group 2). There is no significant difference between the average values before and after treatment with vitamin D. Individually, 5 of the 18 appeared significantly improved. Ten of these rats were then given an additional dose of 1000 units of vitamin D subcutaneously (Table I, Group 3). One week later their average prothrombin time was 71.8 seconds compared to 41.2 seconds before the second dose was given. Again in this group, vitamin D failed to improve the prothrombin deficiency.


The relaxation dynamics of charge carriers of organic capped TiO2 nanorods dispersed in chloroform was investigated by femtosecond transient absorption in a weak-excitation regime. Anisotropic TiO2 nanocrystals were excited in the UV–vis range, using different pump wavelengths, namely above (300 nm), close to (350 nm), and below (430 nm) the direct band gap of anatase TiO2. We show that the ultrafast dynamics strongly depends on excitation wavelength and determine the time constants of all the processes entering the relaxation. Moreover, we demonstrate that two transient absorption bands at 500 and 700 nm, typically attributed to trapped h+ and e–, respectively, are accessible only when TiO2 is photoexcited well above the band gap, while there is no evidence of such bands when TiO2 is photoexcited close to or below its band gap. In such cases the observed dynamics are attributed to trapped excitons.


PURPOSE: A clamp is provided to reduce dangers of working during live wire work and achieve improved work efficiency by permitting the clamp to support or hold the cable during live wire work. CONSTITUTION: A clamp comprises a clamp body(100) having a hydraulic operating unit mounted therein so as to operate a pair of clipper blades(110) arranged at the front end of the clamp body, and a connecting and fixing portion(140) for connecting and fixing the clamp to a tool connection portion of an auxiliary arm; the hydraulic operating unit mounted within the clamp body, and which includes a hydraulic cylinder(130) and a piston(131) operating by the hydraulic oil supplied from an external source through a hydraulic valve(133), and a link(132) for power transmission; and the clipper blades operating by the hydraulic operating unit.


The corporate sector all over the world is restructuring its operations through different types of consolidation strategies like mergers and acquisitions in order to face challenges posed by the new pattern of  globalisation, which has led to the greater integration of national and international markets.. The intensity of cross-border operations recorded an unprecedented surge since the mid-1990s and the same trend continues (World Investment Report, 2000).The objective of the study is to analyse and compare the pre and post-merger and acquisition financial performance of four firms- Ranbaxy, Dr Reddy, Tata Steel and Hindalco through ratio analysis. For this, the data was being collected for three years before and after the acquisition from Capitaline database. Then to compare the changes, SPSS tool- Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test  was being applied. The study concluded that cross-border Mergers and Acquisitions of the selected firms have resulted in no significant change in the financial  performance of these firms.


Coronel Institute for Occupational and Environmental Health, AmCOGG Amsterdam Center for Health and Health Care Research, Academic Medical Center / University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Amsterdam Department of Social Medicine, Institute for Research in Extramural Medicine, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands firstname.lastname@example.com


The utility model discloses a rapid charger. The charger comprises at least two charging circuits which are mutually connected in parallel. Each charging circuit comprises a charging control IC, an overcharge protection circuit, an overvoltage protection circuit and an over-current protection circuit. The overcharge protection circuit, the overvoltage protection circuit and the over-current protection circuit are connected to the charging control IC respectively. In a mobile power supply with the rapid charger, an input terminal of the rapid charger is connected with a power supply adapter and an output terminal is connected with a charging cell. Compared to the prior art, by using the charger and the mobile power supply of the utility model, there are the advantages that charging time is saved and charging efficiency is high.


Probability judgment is essential to navigating through life, from understanding risks to making decisions under uncertainty. However, probability theory is relatively recent. How has humanity managed to get along before this development? In PNAS, Fontanari et al. (1) provide exciting new evidence of probabilistic cognition among Mayan indigenous groups, both adults and children, whose performance was generally indistinguishable from that of Western adults.


Clinical experience with ultrasonic localization and identification of various intrauterine contraceptive devices is reported. The relation ship of the IUD to the amniotic sac in cases of pregnancy with the IUD in situ is given special consideration. Even in pregnancy loops coils and shields were identifiable as spiral or non-spiral IUDs. The localization of the IUD is discussed with special consideration of the preservation of the pregnancy. Localization of the IUD was not useful in determining the cause of metrorrhagia in women experiencing irregular bleeding.(AUTHORS MODIFIED)


It is the key problem for Radio Frequency Integrated Circuit Card applying system to decode the output data from RF chip. Generally, continuous edge-status check by microcomputer is adopted in order to decode data. The article mainly introduces another new technology which decodes 64-bit data coded in Manchester from EM4100 A6 IC based on MCS-51 microcomputer. The technology decodes Manchester code by the means of counting carrier between the falling- edge interval of signal in consideration of the features of microcomputer and Manchester code. Speed and precision of decoding Manchester are promoted, hardware design are comparatively simple. To sum up, it is a quite applicable decod- ing technology.


Purpose
The purpose of this study is to investigate data literacy (DL) for teaching and learning in higher education institution, as data has become a crucial component in the accomplishment of task and decision-making in diverse sector, specifically higher education institutions (HEIs), where students' records, results and research activities are managed in data form.

Design/methodology/approach
This study adopted the interpretive content/document analysis harvested from database of Web of Science in this study. The use of content/document analysis became essential to establish appropriate empirical evidence that relates to this study. This was to support the argument of detailed systematic examination, which the author establishes in the study. The interpretive content/document analysis was based on systematic literature review on specific objectives.

Findings
Findings indicates that DL is crucial in HEIs. Different types of data collection methods, such as rating scale, reporting, questionnaire, interview, observation, checklist, project, registration, assignment and performance test, were noticed in specific institutional cases. Subsequent conceptual and pedagogical foundations in processing data were obtain through continuous reskilling to acquire adequate knowledge and skills of DL. Social media and institutional repository are now used to digitise data. Different types of skills and abilities were used to search, analyse, adopt and share data in HEIs. This study recommends strategies of the use of different databases for data digitisation and creation of awareness on DL education in HEIs in Africa, specifically Nigeria.

Originality/value
This study is insightful with the understanding of DL in HEIs. The significance in this era of digital literacy become essential, as the need to have the knowledge and application of the use of data is important because of how it serves scholar in decision-making and planning in organisational productivity. The rationale towards this study on DL was on the basis that the world is a global village and without data, no organisation or HEIs could function adequately. Several types of data collected, such as rating scale, reporting, questionnaire, interview, observation, checklist, project, registration, assignment and performance test, have transformed institutional cases, for better and quality management operations. The subsequent conceptual and pedagogical foundations in processing data resulted in continuous reskilling, to sharpen learn and unlearn enterprise.


Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the short‐ and long‐term effects of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) on left ventricular (LV) diastolic filling pattern and the relation between the diastolic filling pattern and the response to CRT.


The techniques developed in a previous paper (I) to compute the T product 〈φNαβ(x), φNγδ(o)〉 for arbitrary N are extended to cover the case when φ(x) is a Hermitian matrix‐valued field in ν dimensions. We obtain a closed expression which is used to determine superpropagators like 〈[expκφ(x)]αβ, [expκφ(o)]γδ〉, which occur in strong interaction physics when φ is an SU(3) field, say.


We consider empirical Bayes estimation when the i-th component has a density, given the parameter θ i , that is proportional to a given function on (0,θ i ) which may be different for different i >=1. The common prior distribution of the 0 is estimated using nonparametric function estimation via a representation of it in terms of an average marginal density and a locally weighted average of the marginal distribution function of the data. The estimated prior is used to construct the empirical Bayes estimator. The asymptotic properties of the estimators are established using empirical processes methodology. The finite sample performance of the estimators are studied using a computer simulation. Extensions of the methods to families with threshold parameters are also provided.


Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate possible effects of quercetin supplementation on oxidative stress, blood pressure, aerobic power, concentric pathologic hypertrophy and cardiac function in men with hypertension and coronary artery disease (CAD) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Materials and Methods: The present study was a randomized, double-blind clinical trial; in which, 24 men with hypertension and CAD after PCI (aged 40–60 years) were participated. Patients were prescribed quercetin (250 mg/day) or placebo for two months. Plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were assessed using colorimetric methods as well as left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD), p wave depression (PWD), ejection fraction (EF) and E/A using echocardiography and WRp using Storer-Davise cycle test. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were measured before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using ANCOVA and paired-sample T-test. Results: Supplementation resulted in a significant improvement in oxidative stress reduction (TAC increased and MDA decreased), systolic and diastolic blood pressures, systolic (EF) and diastolic (E/A) functions and aerobic power, compared to pretest and placebo groups following eight weeks of treatment (p < 0.05). A small decrease in RWT was seen in quercetin group at the end of intervention with no statistical significance (p > 0.05). The RWT was not significantly different between the quercetin and placebo groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Quercetin supplementation can improve oxidative stress, blood pressure, left ventricular function and aerobic power in men with hypertension and CAD after PCI. However, this includes no effects on concentric pathologic hypertrophy. Further studies are necessary to verify effects of quercetin supplementation on left ventricular hypertrophy in


Abstract Insight creates change. It is not accurate empathy, but the therapist's attempt at empathy (whether or not successful) that produces change in patients. It is absolutely necessary for a competent therapist to tolerate being confused. Patients internalize the therapist into their superegos, replacing the internalized, punitive parents. They also internalize the therapist as a model for the ego and the relationship with the therapist as a model of a human relationship. Consequently, the therapist must be tolerant and kind, must create hope, and be stubborn in not accepting therapeutic failure.


Using the data from 2001 census and other surveys in Canada, this paper reviews Canada's immigrants in the prospects such as categories, original countries, distribution in Canada, problems facing in their living, and the tendency in future in the purpose of help people to understand Canada's immigrants more comprehensively.


A 25-carboxylic ester analog of 1a,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1a,25(OH)2D3], ZK159222 (compound 1), was recently described as a novel type of antagonist of 1a,25(OH)2D3 signaling. In this study five derivatives of compound 1 (compounds 2–6) were selected because of their sensitivity in facilitating complex formation between the 1a,25(OH)2D3 receptor (VDR) and the retinoid X receptor on a 1a,25(OH)2D3 response element that was comparable to that of the natural hormone (0.2–0.9 nM). Most derivatives of compound 1 reacted as typical agonists, because they were able to promote ligand-dependent interaction of the VDR with the coactivator TIF2, stabilized the VDR preferentially in its agonistic conformation c1LPD, and stimulated VDR-dependent gene activity with a potency similar to 1a,25(OH)2D3. In contrast, only compound 2 showed the antagonistic profile of compound 1, which includes the incompetence to induce a VDR-TIF2 contact, the stabilization of the antagonistic conformation c2LPD, and only a very weak and insensitive functional activity. Accordingly, only compounds 1 and 2, but not compounds 3 to 6, showed prominent antagonistic effects in cellular systems. The comparison of the structures of the compounds indicates that the essential requirements for an antagonistic function are a cyclopropyl ring at carbon 25, a hydroxy group at carbon 24, and at least a butylester. Interestingly, compound 2 was an approximately 3 times more sensitive antagonist than compound 1 and even displayed a lower residual agonistic activity. In conclusion, only a very limited number of structural variations of compound 1 are possible to keep its antagonistic profile, but the tools presented here for their in vitro evaluation allow an accurate prediction of the effects and are suited to screening for even more potent 1a,25(OH)2D3 antagonists. The nuclear hormone 1a,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1a,25(OH)2D3] is the natural agonist of the vitamin D3 receptor (VDR) (Pike, 1991). VDR is a member of the nuclear receptor transcription factor superfamily (Mangelsdorf et al., 1995) and acts preferentially as a heterodimer with the retinoid X receptor (RXR; Carlberg, 1996) on specific DNA sequences in promoter regions of 1a,25(OH)2D3 target genes, referred to as 1a,25(OH)2D3 response elements (VDREs) (Carlberg, 1995). The VDR contains a DNA-binding domain (DBD), which is formed by two zinc-finger motifs that are characteristic of the nuclear receptor superfamily (Glass, 1994), and a ligand-binding domain (LBD) that is formed by 12 a-helical structures, of which the last one, helix 12, contains a short transactivation function 2 (AF-2) domain (Moras and Gronemeyer, 1998). VDR-RXR-VDRE complexes are the molecular core of DNA-dependent 1a,25(OH)2D3-signaling pathways (Carlberg and Polly, 1998) and should be able to explain the physiological actions of 1a,25(OH)2D3, which are the regulation of calcium homeostasis and bone mineralization (DeLuca et al., 1990) and the control of cellular growth, differentiation, and apoptosis (Walters, 1992). The most critical step in 1a,25(OH)2D3 signaling is the induction of a conformational change within the LBD of the VDR by interaction with 1a,25(OH)2D3 or its analogs. The major consequences of an agonist-induced conformational change of the VDR are an induction of the dissociation of corepressor proteins, such as NCoR and Alien (Polly et al., 2000), an enhancement of the interaction with RXR (and consequently an increased amount of complex formation with a VDRE) (Quack and Carlberg, 2000), and a stimulation of the interaction with coactivator proteins of the p160 family, such as SRC-1, transcriptional intermediary factor 2 (TIF2), and RAC3, via the AF-2 domain (Herdick et al., 2000). In contrast, if a given ligand stabilizes a VDR conformation that does not fulfill one of these criteria, so that the receptor will This work was supported by the Sonderforschungsbereich 503, project A6, DFG Grant Ca229/1, the Fonds der Chemischen Industrie, and the Wilhelm Sander Foundation (all to C.C.). ABBREVIATIONS: 1a,25(OH)2D3, 1a,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3; AF-2, (trans)activation function 2; ANF, atrial natriuretic factor; DBD, DNA-binding domain; DR3, direct repeat spaced by three nucleotides; EC50, half-maximal activation; GST, glutathione S-transferase; RXR, retinoid X receptor; LBD, ligand-binding domain; TIF2, transcriptional intermediary factor 2; VDR, 1a,25(OH)2D3 receptor; VDRE, 1a,25(OH)2D3 response element; DMSO, dimethyl sulfoxide. 0026-895X/00/051067-08$3.00/0 MOLECULAR PHARMACOLOGY Vol. 58, No. 5 Copyright © 2000 The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics 226/861609 Mol Pharmacol 58:1067–1074, 2000 Printed in U.S.A. 1067 at A PE T Jornals on O cber 3, 2017 m oharm .aspeurnals.org D ow nladed from be less or even not functional, and if in parallel this ligand shows an affinity for the VDR that is comparable to that of 1a,25(OH)2D3, it may have an antagonistic potential. Approximately 2000 analogs of 1a,25(OH)2D3, which mainly contain modifications of the side chain, have been developed with the goal to improve the biological profile of the natural hormone for a potential therapeutic application (Bouillon et al., 1995). Most of the modifications of 1a,25(OH)2D3 resulted in more or less active VDR agonists, whereas presently only two types of VDR antagonists, the 25-carboxylic ester ZK159222 (compound 1) from Schering (Berlin, Germany; Wiesinger et al., 1998) and the 26,23lactone TEI-9647 from Teijin (Tokyo, Japan) (Miura et al., 1999), have been described. Interestingly, the two VDR antagonists appear to have different antagonistic mechanisms: TEI-9647 decreases the amount of VDR-RXR heterodimer complex formation (Ozono et al., 1999), and compound 1 is not able to promote an interaction of the VDR with coactivator proteins of the p160 family, neither in solution nor in a complex with RXR on DNA (Herdick et al., 2000). The latter mechanism, which is based on an incorrect positioning and blocking of the AF-2 domain, has also been suggested for antagonists of other members of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily, such as the estrogen receptor (Shiau et al., 1998) and the progesterone receptor (Vegeto et al., 1992). The ratio of known VDR agonists to VDR antagonists (approximately 2000:2) already suggests that structural requirements of a 1a,25(OH)2D3 analog to function as a VDR antagonist are stricter than that of a VDR agonists. However, because of a lack of straightforward in vitro screening systems, not every known 1a,25(OH)2D3 analog was tested for its potential antagonistic action. Therefore, in this study, five derivatives of compound 1 were analyzed for their agonistic and antagonistic profile in vitro, i.e., for an enhancement of VDR-RXR-VDRE complex formation, for promotion of VDRcoactivator interaction, and for stabilization of VDR conformations. Moreover, the compounds were tested for their agonistic and antagonistic effects in a cellular system. Only one derivative, compound 2, was identified as a novel VDR antagonist. However, compound 2 was approximately 3 times more sensitive than compound 1 and displayed a lower residual agonistic activity than the parent compound. Materials and Methods Compounds. Compound 1 (butyl-(5Z,7E,22E)-(1S,3R,24R)1,3,24-trihydroxy-26,27-cyclo-9,10-secocholesta-5,7,10(19),22tetraene-25-carboxylate) (Wiesinger et al., 1998) and compounds 2 to 6 are carboxylic esters of 1a,25(OH)2D3; the structures of their side chains are shown in Fig. 1. Compound 2 is formally derived from compound 1 by introduction of an ethylene unit between carbon 25 and the ester moiety. The ester side chain itself is shortened by two carbon atoms, thus providing a total side chain length that equals that of compound 1. Compounds 3 to 5 also exhibit different substitution patterns at carbon 25. Compound 3 is the only compound without a ring system at carbon 25 but carries a geminal dimethyl situation at this position. Compounds 4 and 5 have been derived from compound 1 by enlargement of the ring system at carbon 25 by one or two methylene groups, respectively. Compound 6 is the corresponding ketone to the 24-alcohol compound 1. By this modification the geometry of the whole side chain is changed, providing a higher degree of rigidity. All compounds were dissolved in 2-propanol; further dilutions were made in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO; for in vitro experiments) or in ethanol (for cell culture experiments). DNA Constructs. The full-length cDNAs for human VDR (Carlberg et al., 1993) and human RXRa (Levin et al., 1992) were subcloned into the SV40 promoter-driven pSG5 expression vector (Stratagene, Heidelberg, Germany). These constructs are also suitable for T7 RNA polymerase-driven in vitro transcription/translation of the respective cDNAs. The DBD of the yeast transcription factor GAL4 (amino acids 1–147) was fused with the cDNA of the human VDR LBD (amino acids 109–427). The luciferase reporter gene was driven by three copies of the GAL4-binding site fused to the tk promoter (Hörlein et al., 1995). The nuclear receptor interaction domain of human TIF2 (spanning from amino acids 646–926) (Voegel et al., 1996) was subcloned into the glutathione S-transferase (GST) fusion vector pGEX (Amersham-Pharmacia, Freiburg, Germany). In Vitro Protein Translation and Bacterial Fusion Protein Overexpression. In vitro translated VDR and RXR proteins were generated by transcribing their respective linearized pSG5-based cDNA expression vector with T7 RNA polymerase and translating these RNAs in vitro using rabbit reticulocyte lysate as recommended by the supplier (Promega, Mannheim, Germany). Bacterial overexpression of GST-TIF2646–926 was facilitated in the Escherichia coli BL21(DE3)pLysS strain (Stratagene) by induction with isopropyl-bD-thio-galactopyranoside (0.25 mM) for 3 h at 37°C. Gel Shift and Supershift Assay. In vitro translated VDR-RXR heterodimers were incubated with graded or saturating conc


The article focuses on the features of discourse of videogames. The ways to analyze the phenomenon linguistically are described, the definitions of the game and videogame, types of videogames, as well as the elements and levels (microand macrolevel) of videogame discourse analysis, are given and analyzed. Different approaches to the analysis of language in videogame discourse are identified. The article also covers the textual and linguistic features of texts in videogames and texts used to describe and discuss them (metaludic discourses).


Abstract A first-stage evaluation of a treatment programme for personality disordered offenders conducted in a high-security setting is reported. Drawing on the literature, the treatment programme was designed to modify a range of clinical targets. The marked lack of standardized measures made finegrained evaluation impossible to achieve. A methodology was therefore employed that was based on global change over an amalgam of outcome measures. Analysis revealed significant clinical gains as assessed by the global change measure. Level of global change did not correlate significantly with age, IQ, time in institutions, or time at risk. However, scores on the Psychopathy Checklist Revised (PCL-R) showed a significant negative correlation with global change. Further, analysis showed that this negative relationship was due to scores on PCL-R factor 1 (interpersonal style) not factor 2 (unstable lifestyle). The findings with regard to PCL-R scores both are consistent with the literature and show the importance ...


After the so-called 'revisionist controversy' of the 1990s, historians of Ireland have embraced more fervently comparative and interdisciplinary approaches to the study of the Irish past. One subfield that has benefited enormously from these new directions has been the history of popular culture. In particular, the study of popular religion in the long nineteenth century has become more nuanced during the past fifteen years, as scholars have re-assessed the combined impacts of population change and the Catholic Church's 'devotional revolution' on popular culture and beliefs. An examination of the transformation of the devotional practice known as 'the pattern' suggests that popular religion (and popular culture more generally) emerged out of a dialectical process in which local traditions and beliefs were nearly as significant as were the prescriptive actions of elites.


By using the methods of documents and statistics,this paper comparatively analyses the every single techniques between Wang Yihan and Li Xuerui in woman's single final of 2012 Asian Badminton Championship,aimed to provide some references for China badminton development.


Objective: To investigate the status of p16 gene in primary transitional cell carcinoma of bladder(TCCB).Methods: A total of 40 TCCB samples with correspondent tumor-adjacent specimens were screened for p16 gene deletions,mutations and hypermethylations by using multiplex polymerase chain reaction(PCR), single strand conformational polymorphism (SSCP) and PCR-based methylation analysis,respectively. Results: Among 40 TCCB samples,7 deletions , 3 mutations and 9 hypermethylations were detected,and their rates were 17.5%,7.5% and 22.5% ,respectively. However,no deletions,mutations or hypermethylations were found in all the tumor-adjacent tissues.Conclusion: The abnormal alterations of p16 gene may play an important role in the carcin ogenesis of TCCB.


We have performed 2D and quasi-3D numerical simulations of physical vapor deposition (PVD) into high aspect ratio trenches used for modern VLSI interconnects. The topographic evolution is modeled using (continuum) level set methods. The level set approach is a powerful mathematical/computational technique for accurately tracking moving interfaces or boundaries, where the advancing front is embedded as the zero level set (isosurface) of a higher dimensional mathematical function. The technique can be equally well applied to etching, including the incorporation of complex mask shapes. First, we study 2D cases for long rectangular trenches including the quasi-3D case in which the 3D target flux is mathematically reduced to an equivalent 2D flux. The 3D flux is obtained from molecular dynamics computations for Al(100), and hence our approach represents a hybrid atomistic/continuum model. We obtain good agreement with XTEM data. Finally, we present results for etching problems of relevance to shallow trench isolation in electronic devices.


This study investigates the interactions between cadmium (Cd) and microplastic under controlled laboratory conditions using low density polyethylene microbeads as model of plastic particles. Cadmium was added to suspensions of artificial seawater to investigate heavy metal adsorption on microbeads surface in five different concentration. Polyethylene microbeads proved to have affinity in providing surface area for cadmium. Microbeads served as an effective sorption surface and concentrated cadmium amount in seawater through adsorption process. The maximum adsorption was monitored for 96 hours. Maximum adsorption capacity determined to be 0.0101 mg/g occurring within 12-48 hours in test concentration. While, kinetic study was performed according to pseudo-first-order kinetic with kd at 0.011 L/g. Using data from pseudo first order, isotherm study was performed in nonlinear regression and dataset was in good agreement with Langmuir, Freundlich and Redlich Petterson with coefficient of determination at 0.865, 0.964 and 0.962 respectively. Adsorption of cadmium to polyethylene microbeads has important implications for the potential role of microplastics, in this case microbeads-cadmium contaminated act as a quantified link in aquatic food webs.


All of us, in higher education, like to think of ourselves as caring professors, and who's to say we are not. How can an outsider (e.g., a researcher) have the nerve to say he or she knows what is going on inside of us, as professors? Is caring something that each one of us must privately determine whether or not we feel? And does it vary in levels or degrees, so that I could be a caring professor as much as I deem is necessary, right, or humanly pos sible, and you could be caring to a whole other level, that I would not feel comfortable with or even find possible? Does that make me a worse teacher? These kinds of issues have to be addressed when one attempts to confront a topic such as "caring." It is a personal, subjective topic full of feelings. For all of these reasons, it is a powerful, moving, dynamic topic, that not many researchers choose to tackle. Yet, it is our contention that professors (actually, teachers at any level of instruction) who care about their students are remembered, effect change, stimulate growth, and are more likely to be suc cessful at teaching their students. As a result, looking at caring as a topic is important; indeed, we wish to argue it is central to any attempt to describe a model of teaching that tries to take into ac count the student as a whole person, not just "from the neck up" (Burwash & Miller, 1969).


The invention provides slag concrete resistant to sulfur dioxide corrosion. The slag concrete is prepared from the following gel materials: 10-15 percent by weight of slag powder and the balance of cement. According to the concrete, the slag powder is used to replace part of cement in the gel materials, and meanwhile, a replacement rate of the slag powder in the concrete is reasonably selected, thus the effect of resisting SO2 corrosion by the concrete is realized, and the durability of the concrete is improved.


The present invention relates to dielectrically positive, preferably nematic medium, which comprises one or more compounds of formula I wherein the polymerizable, parameters have the meaning given in the text, relates to a polymer obtained therefrom stabilized medium, It relates to the use thereof in liquid crystal displays, these displays, and relates, in particular, PSA-IPS, PSA-FFS and PSA- positive VA displays.


The invention provides a preparation method of high-performance rutile titanium white, which comprises the following steps: calcining metatitanic acid to obtain a rutile titanium white primary product; grinding the rutile titanium white primary product, carrying out wet milling, grading by water concentration, and preparing titanium dioxide slurry; heating the titanium dioxide slurry to 50-60 DEG C, adding a zirconium-containing compound and alkali liquor, and regulating the pH value to 8.0-9.0; heating to 65-70 DEG C, regulating the pH value to 9.5-10.5 with alkali liquor, adding an inorganic dispersing agent, and adding an alkaline aluminum-containing compound and dilute acid into the titanium dioxide slurry; cooling the titanium dioxide slurry to 60-65 DEG C, regulating the pH value to 5.0-6.0 with acid liquor, adding an acidic aluminum-containing compound and alkali liquor, and regulating the pH value to 6.5-7.5; and carrying out pressure filtration on the slurry to obtain a filter cake, drying the filter cake, pulverizing with air flow, and adding an organic assistant to obtain the finished product. The product provided by the invention has the advantages of high weather resistance, high covering power and high universality.


An operationally simple protocol for the photocatalytic carbamoylation of imines is reported. Easily available, bench-stable 4-amido Hantzsch ester derivatives serve as precursors to carbamoyl radicals that undergo rapid addition to N-aryl imines. The reaction proceeds under blue light irradiation in the presence of the photocatalyst 3DPAFIPN and Brønsted/Lewis acid additives. Mechanistic studies indicated a photoredox mechanism that involves carbamoyl radicals.


Aiming at the large scale debris flow caused by strong rainfall,this paper investigates the conditions and characteristics of debris flow occurrence by taking the Longchi Town of Dujiangyan City in Sichuan Province for an example.Based on the site investigation and experimental data of Chunyashu debris flow,it is obtained that the gully,matter sources and water sources are the key factors for control of debris flow,which provides suggestions for calamity reduction and prevention.


Dementia has early warning signs and symptoms. An early diagnosis will help manage a person's dementia. Signs may be vague, but may include loss of memory (particularly for recent events), confusion, apathy, withdrawal and the loss of ability to do everyday tasks. Other conditions have symptoms similar to dementia. A doctor may use six broad types of medical assessment to help to confirm or rule out a diagnosis of dementia.


A new theridiid species Meotipa ultapani sp. nov. is described and illustrated in detail along with notes on its natural history on the basis of specimens collected from Assam, India.


In this article it is presented an analytical overview of original methods for increasing the contrast of joint distribution matrices using the demonstrative and exponential transformations of their energy density in a frequency-time space. We see the examples of modelling, which define the focus of developed approaches. We are given the practical recommendations how to use them.


The authors report here the findings of a multicentre study of efficacy of Sandimmune-Neoral in hormone-sensitive and hormone-resistant nephrotic syndrome related to primary glomerulonephritis in children. The drug proved efficient in different morphological variants of glomerulonephritis, taking course with nephrotic syndrome. High efficacy of the drug was observed not only in hormone-sensitive, but in hormone-resistant nephrotic syndrome. The authors have for the first time in the Russian literature shown a possibility of formation of cyclosporin-dependence during therapy with Sandimmune-Neoral.


This article outlines the results of two phases of excavation at 12–18 Albert Embankment, Lambeth. The site was partially excavated in 1988 by the Museum of London's Department of Greater London Archaeology. However, areas around the edge and north of the site were not examined and excavation of the remainder of the site was undertaken in 2000 by the Museum of London Archaeology Service. The excavations demonstrated the rapid and relentless pattern of change that took place in Thameside Lambeth from the mid-18th to the mid-19th centuries. An area of market gardens and semi-rural settlement became a densely occupied urban slum. The archaeological sequence and the associated finds showed how these changes had actually occurred. Period 1 represented the geological horizon; subsequently the site was cultivated (period 2). This activity ceased c 1745 and in period 3 the site became built up. Associated with the construction of Buildings 1 and 2 was Open Area 3 that contained a substantial dump of pothouse waste. Dated to 1745–70, this assemblage included tin-glazed ware, stoneware and London area post-medieval redware. Both kiln furniture and vessels (including wasters) were found. The kiln furniture included forms used for both tin-glazed and redwares, suggesting that both wares may have been manufactured at the same pothouse. Furthermore, the assemblage included the first examples of 18th century redware kiln furniture. It is suggested that this assemblage derived from either the pothouse at Norfolk House or that at Vauxhall, the only local pothouses known to be making both stoneware and tin-glazed ware between 1745 and 1770. The excavation suggests that London area post-medieval redwares may also have been manufactured at either of these Lambeth pothouses. This is the first evidence for the manufacture of 18th century redwares in Lambeth. From the early 19th century the use of the site intensified (period 4): sixteen cesspits were recorded. In period 5 these cesspits were backfilled as one event, during the period 1851–60, as a result of the arrival of piped sewage disposal in the area. The large backfill assemblages are discussed here, giving an insight into the status and lifestyle of mid-Victorian Lambeth's residents.


Functional linear models are useful in analyzing data from designed experiments and observational studies with functional responses, as well as longitudinal data with a large number of repeated measures on each subject. We propose a quasi F‐test for functional linear models with functional covariates and outcomes. We develop a numerical procedure and an efficient approximation for computing p‐values, and present a simple way to test individual predictors. For illustration, we apply the proposed procedure to a longitudinal depression data set with repeatedly measured methamphetamine use as a predictor. We conduct a simulation study to assess the size and the power of the test. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.


Conductance-voltage characteristics (CVCs) of tunnel break junctions made of Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+δ crystals were measured. It was demonstrated that the CVCs have a V-shaped inner gap region, similar to t...


Software Transactional Memory (STM) is an alternative abstraction to synchronize processes in parallel programming. One advantage is simplicity since it is possible to replace the use of explicit locks with atomic blocks. Regarding STM performance, many studies already have been made focusing on reducing the number of aborts. However, in current multicore architectures with complex memory hierarchies, it is also important to consider where the memory of a program is allocated and how it is accessed. This paper proposes the use of a technique called sharing-aware mapping, which maps threads to cores of an application based on their memory access behavior, to achieve better performance in STM systems. We introduce STMap, an online, low overhead mechanism to detect the sharing behavior and perform the mapping directly inside the STM library, by tracking and analyzing how threads perform STM operations. In experiments with the STAMP benchmark suite and synthetic benchmarks, STMap shows performance gains of up to 77% on a Xeon system (17.5% on average) and 85% on an Opteron system (9.1% on average), compared to the Linux scheduler.


Understanding the heat transfer mechanism through a clothed man system in extreme environments is of great significance for human thermal protection. Three‐dimensional heat transfer models were developed based on the computational fluid dynamics considering a real‐shape human body in this study. The influences of air gap width, clothing thickness, and emissivity on the heat transfer within a dressed manikin exposed to flash fire were investigated. Simulated results indicated that the heat transfer in the air space was more complicated on the garment level than the fabric, because of the varying relative positions between different body segments and the heat source, as well as the ventilation openings. Increasing the fabric thickness was an effective method to reduce the transferred energy, which could remarkably lower the skin temperature. Decreasing both of the surface and backside emissivity from 0.9 to 0.3 could increase the protective performance, where surface emissivity reduction was recommended since the decrease of clothing temperature could minimize the risks of fabric degradation. The purpose of assuming the uniform air gap was to perform the parametric study, which was unrealistic indeed. The model with real clothing shape will be developed and investigated in the near future.


Ternary boron-carbon-nitride compounds are the hardest, chemically stable, and most applicable semiconductors in optoelectronic devices. We investigate the quasi-particle and excitonic properties of type II o-BC2N using many-body perturbation theory (MBPT). The state-of-the-art GW and BSE methods were used to determine the accurate band gap and excited-state characteristics of this material. We simulate the convergence test and structural optimization in DFT, which is the starting point for the GW calculation. We also compute the convergence test of the parameters in GW and BSE. As a result, the bandgap of our system is found to be 2.31 eV and 1.95 eV using the GW approximation and DFT-PBE, respectively. Since the valence and conduction band edges are located at different Brillouin zones, we decide that o-BC2N is an indirect bandgap semiconductor. In addition, by applying the scissor operator, we corrected the quasi-particle bandgap, which shows almost the same result as the GW approximation. Furthermore, using the BSE algorithm, we calculate the optical bandgap of type II o-BC2N to be 4.0 eV with the excitonic effect and 4.4 eV without the excitonic effect. The highest peaks of the imaginary dielectric function with the excitonic effect shift to a lower energy level at 11 eV than without the excitonic effect at 13.5 eV. The electron charge distribution is computed by fixing the hole position. Finally, we suggest that type II o-BC2N is promising for the application of optoelectronic semiconductors.


were usually successful in their supplanting attacks, but the dominance order between the two species was not absolute and the number of interspecific interactions were few. As emphasised by the authors, it is necessary to consider how applicable the results from birds held in captivity are to the natural situation. In this paper I present the results of interspecific encounters between five tit species visiting an outdoor feeder in central Norway. In general, the following social rank order was observed: Great Tit P. major > Blue Tit P. caeruleus > Marsh Tit P. palustris > Coal Tit > Willow Tit. The Coal Tits showed a statistically significant tendency to be dominant over the larger Willow Tits, although not in all cases. Nevertheless, it seems that the Coal Tit's status in the social hierarchy requires consideration in the current discussion on the interspecific competition for food and foraging sites among species belonging to the tit guild of the coniferous forest.


A simple relativistic model of heavy-light mesons is applied to the rare decay B → K * γ in the standard model. We find Γ(B → K * γ)/Γ(b → sγ) = (17±4)% and BR(B → K * γ) = (4.8±1.9)×10 −5 (|V cb |/.04) 2. These numbers are reduced by only 20% in the heavy-quark limit. We have recently developed a relativistic model of mesons containing a heavy quark Q and a light antiquark q [1, 2]. Matrix elements for Q 1 q → Q 2 q meson transitions are represented by quark loop graphs with Q 2 Q 1-type operator insertions on the heavy-quark line. The external mesons are joined to the loop with vertices of the form Z 2 /(−k 2 + Λ 2), where k is the light quark momentum. These vertices suppress large momentum flow into the light quark, which is the essential physical effect of the light quark wave function. The Z's and Λ's are different for each meson flavor and spin, but are not arbitrary parameters. They are fixed in terms of the heavy and light masses appearing in the standard quark propagators by requiring the meson self-energies to vanish and have unit slope at the physically-measured meson masses. Central to the application of a free quark model is the assumption that QCD confinement is characterized by somewhat smaller momentum scales than typical light quark momenta in a heavy-light meson. This situation is realized by our model and it thus suggests the possibility that confinement may not play an essential role. Indeed, our model results are obtained by simply dropping the imaginary parts arising from the free quark loop diagrams. The success or failure of such a model will shed 1 light on the role played by confinement. Thus far we have found that the model yields a differential decay spectrum for B → D * ℓν whose shape compares well with the data when m b = 4.80 GeV, m c = 1.44 GeV and m q = 250 MeV [3]. The model may also be expanded in inverse powers of heavy-quark masses and the vector-and axial-vector current form factors have been shown in [1] to be consistent with all heavy-quark symmetry constraints through order 1/m Q [4, 5]. The purpose of this paper is to apply our model to the rare decay B → K * γ [6] within the context …


This paper uses AC-DC parallel transmission system as simulation model to study the functions of DC ice-melting device based on voltage source converter when not running as de-icer,but extended as STATCOM or UPFC.When operating as STATCOM,it facilitates the operation stability of AC-DC system,not only expands the transmission limit of DC system,but also inhibits the oscillation of AC system;when operating as UPFC,besides the STATCOM functions,it can efficiently adjust AC line power flow,and this power adjustment can be used to supply power to the system and improve the performance of AC-DC system.


We show that the set of Lebesgue integrable functions in $[0,1]$ which are nowhere essentially bounded is spaceable, improving a result from [F. J. Garc\'{i}a-Pacheco, M. Mart\'{i}n, and J. B. Seoane-Sep\'ulveda. \textit{Lineability, spaceability, and algebrability of certain subsets of function spaces,} Taiwanese J. Math., \textbf{13} (2009), no. 4, 1257--1269], and that it is strongly $\mathfrak{c}$-algebrable. We prove strong $\mathfrak{c}$-algebrability and non-separable spaceability of the set of functions of bounded variation which have a dense set of jump discontinuities. Applications to sets of Lebesgue-nowhere-Riemann integrable and Riemann-nowhere-Newton integrable functions are presented as corollaries. In addition we prove that the set of Kurzweil integrable functions which are not Lebesgue integrable is spaceable (in the Alexievicz norm) but not 1-algebrable. We also show that there exists an infinite dimensional vector space $S$ of differentiable functions such that each element of the $C([0,1])$-closure of $S$ is a primitive to a Kurzweil integrable function, in connection to a classic spaceability result from [V. I. Gurariy, \textit{Subspaces and bases in spaces of continuous functions (Russian),} Dokl. Akad. Nauk SSSR, \textbf{167} (1966), 971-973].