Implantable pressure sensors represent an important part of the research activity in laboratories. Unfortunately, their use is limited by cost, autonomy and temperature-related drifts. The cost of use depends on several parameters, particularly their low battery life and the need for miniaturization to be able to implant the animals and monitor them over a time that is long enough to be physiologically relevant. This paper studied the possibility of reducing the thermal drift of implantable sensors. To quantify and compensate for the thermal drift, we developed the equivalent model of the piezoresistive probe by using the Cadence software. Our model takes into account the temperature (34–39 °C) as well as the pressure (0–300 mmHg). We were thus able to identify the source of the drift and thanks to our model, we were able to compensate for it thanks to the compensation circuits added to the conditioning circuits of the sensor. The maximum relative drift of the sensor is (0.1 mV/°C)/3.6 mV (2.7%), a drift of the conditioning circuit is (0.98 mV/°C)/916 mV (0.1%) and the whole is (13.4 mV/°C)/420 mV (32%). The compensated sensor shows a relative maximum drift of (0.371 mV/°C)/405 mV (0.09%). The output voltage remains stable over the measurement temperature range.


It is beneficial to extract the parameters of the objects by rich information of PolSAR (Polarimetric Synthetic Aperture Radar) data. With polSAR data of Radarsat-2, the polarimetric character of winter wheat in booting and milk stage is studied based on polarization theory. The results show that: there is a great difference between the polarimetric characters of two stages due to the change of wheat structure. Winter wheat growth can be retrieved by entropy, which changes in different way in the two stages. In booting stage, with LAI increasing, the scattering mechanism tends to be more complex. While in milk stage, with plant density increasing, the scattering mechanism tends to be simpler. The eigenvalue of λ2 is a valuable parameter to retrieve soil moisture with crop cover. Results show the potential advantage of polarimetric radar.


Objective To evaluate the biocompatibility of titanium alloy before and after casting by cell culture and MTT test. Methods Three kinds of titanium alloys before and after casting were processed into wafers whose diameter was 13. 5 mm and thickness was1 mm. Extracts were prepared for cell culture after cleaning and disinfection. Observe cell morphology and test the cells' absorbance value in each group after culturing for 1,3 and 5 days. Results ①Cell absorbance value of C group which contained aluminum and vanadium was slightly lower than those of the other two groups no matter before or after casting( P 0. 05). ②Cell absorbance values of three groups after casting were slightly lower than those before casting( P 0. 05). Conclusions Casting has no effect on the biocompatibility of titanium alloys. It doesn't affect clinical application.


Since the discovery of the significant gain in capacity provided by multiple antennas over fading channels, tremendous research and development efforts in academia and industry have been invested to multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) technology. However, difficulties still exist in the design of flexible MIMO transmission schemes. The overall goal of our study is to develop efficient turbo MIMO transceivers that are capacity-achieving and yet with reasonable complexity. First, we study the design of serially concatenated MIMO transmitters. For simpler design and flexible rate-versus-performance tradeoff, conventional encoders are used before a linear space-time modulator. A joint iterative receiver based on the turbo principle is assumed that precludes the use of Tarokh's design criteria for such a concatenated system. Extending the extrinsic information transfer (EXIT) charts to MIMO systems, design criteria that concern both the data rate and error performance are developed for the inner space-time (ST) modulator. Based on the new design criteria, an optimal space-time linear dispersion modulation scheme is presented. In addition, the tradeoff between constellation size and symbol rate for a given data rate is discussed. Simulation results are provided to verify the new design criteria and to demonstrate the merits of the proposed coded space-time modulation. For such a turbo MIMO transmitter, the abundance of highly developed outer decoders allows us to focus on the study on the inner multi-user detection (MUD). To start, a new parallel interference cancellation (PIC) MUD scheme is proposed. This detector can be used as a stand-alone multi-user detector in a non-iterative MIMO receiver. The new scheme employs a novel nonlinear minimum mean square error (MMSE) estimator as the soft decision device. The nonlinear estimator exploits the knowledge of symbol alphabet for refined estimates with smaller mean square error (MSE). Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed detector significantly outperforms the conventional detectors with comparable complexity. The nonlinear MMSE estimator is further extended to develop the soft-output MUD for iterative turbo MIMO receivers. The nonlinear estimation makes use of a priori information from the outer decoder and preliminary estimates gleaned from channel observation as well. With the new nonlinear MMSE estimator, a generalized SIC-MMSE scheme is proposed. Depending on the methods for generating preliminary estimates, two generalized SIC-MMSE detectors are proposed: a 2-staged SIC-MMSE and a recursive SIC-MMSE detectors. Analytical study and simulations are carried out to demonstrate the merits of the two proposed detectors. Last, tradeoffs among the components of the transmitter that affect error performance at the receiver are discussed to provide design guidelines for practice


Biogas production and power production thereof has grown to 22.8 TWh in 2012. The paper shows how biogas power is sold in the German electricity market, especially concerning direct marketing options. It also highlights the fact that the renewable energies need to be more integrated into the electricity market and provide system services such as balancing power. Promising progress has been made through amendments in legislation, but much lies ahead given the target of 80 % renewable power consumption until 2050.


: In this essay I will analyze Davidson's proposition of truth as correspondence throughout his work, which will be di-vided into two periods: one, ranging from his first works until his 1987 "Afterthoughts", the other, going from that date up to his later works. What distinguishes these periods is that during the first, Davidson claimed to be a correspondentist, whilst during the second he recanted this denomination, perceiving it as a terminological mistake. My purpose here is to consider the reason for this so-called mistake and to what extent the issue of correspondence persists in the author's later works. In order to do this, I propose that a distinction be made between two modes of understanding correspondence, which in turn relate to two different ways of understanding philosophical analysis and what Wrihgt calls the traditional debate on truth, as well as the new course it should steer.


Abstract : Both human and animal MRI scans were performed as a part of specific aims 1 and 2. Two types of animal studies were performed. In the first study we investigated the effect of hemorrhagic shock on animals with traumatic injury. In the second study we investigated the neuroprotective effects of Epo on the injury outcome. In humans MRI data were acquired on both orthopedic controls and mTBI subjects at baselone (within 24 hours after injury) and at three months. The multi-modal MRI measures included include regional and global volumetry using tensor-based morphometry, tissue microstructural integrity using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and T2-weighted images for lesion volumes in animals, and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) for investigating the metabolic changes, and magnetization transfer imaging (MTR) for assessing the state of myelin (only in humans). In animals with hemorrhagic shock, significant atrophy was detected in some gray matter structures, including the ipsilateral parietal cortex and parts of amygdaloid nucleus and suprachiasmatic nucleus away from the injury site. Significant reduction in FA in the white matter tracts closest to site of injury: ipsilateral external capsule, internal capsule, splenium, body and genu of corpus callosum were also observed. Based on MRS, Epo appears to show some neuroprotective effect. In humans, mean diffusivity (MD), based on DTI, showed group differences between orthopedic controls and mTBI subjects at baseline. These differences appear to resolve on the month 3 scans. We did not observe any group differences on any of the other MRI measures. These studies resulted in two abstract and one publication. Two more manuscripts are under preparation.


Microsatellites are tandem repeat, frequent and diverse short sequences in the genomes of all species, constituting important markers in multiple areas of genomics-based research. Associations of these markers have been found in a significant number of human diseases. Vaccine development has shown how pathogens can evade the immune response by simply altering the composition of repeat sequences in their genes. There are numerous computer applications for the detection of these sequences, but they do not meet all expectations due to the divergence of criteria and approaches applied to solving the problem of their detection. MIDAS implements a non-heuristic solution based on two combinatorial algorithms in series: the first one detects exact microsatellites, and the second one, if the model parameters allow it, extends the sequences to their optimal inaccurate version. The application has as input the genomic sequence in GBFF or FASTA format and its output provides the microsatellite positions in the genomic sequence, as well as sizes, alignments, flanks and other statistics. The algorithm is highly efficient and comprehensive, detecting all possible repeat sequences regardless of their nucleotide composition. Keywords: SSR; microsatellite; molecular marker; data mining; algorithms


Due to the large construction quantity and tight construction schedule,the new technologies of steel pipe columns and cross steel columns are used in the construction of Cultural Center Station of Tianjin Metro and Citizen Square Station of Wuxi Metro respectively.The new technologies used are presented and the accuracy,construction schedule and efficiency of these two technologies are evaluated in the paper.In the end,great efficiency is achieved.The paper can provide reference for similar projects in the future.


It appears that historically the ascendancy of marginalism has been ascribed to the alleged inability of the absolute-labour theory of value to resolve the pricing of the agents of production. When we depart from the simplified case of only common labour and start taking into account types and grades of labour involving the acquisition of knowledge, training and experience, the problem of reduction of differentiated labour to common labour without bringing in the considerations of the demand for the commodities manufactured with the aid of different types of labour has to be confronted. Heterogeneity in the natural properties of different physical units of land and differential rates of response on the same land create the problem of the determination of stability in differential rents without bringing in relative variations in magnitudes of demand for different land -oriented commodities. Section I presents an effort to resolve the problem of conversion of different types and grades of labour into equivalent units of homogeneous labour on principles similar to that adopted to the pricing of goods deemed as capitals. The outline of a classical approach to the issue of education as capital in human beings is offered. The object of Section II of this paper is to rework the theory of differential landrents and to demonstrate how it is possible to determine different prices of land-oriented goods without bringing in the influence of demand. It is sought to show the complications introduced by differential rents in the absolute labour theory of value can be handled without a violation of the classical framework. An analytical distinction between basic and nonbasic rents is presented. Section III outlines the distinction between the methodologies of circular flow and of equilibrium and examines the issue of the alleged dependence of the classical theory upon the postulates of constant costs and fixed coefficients. A self-contained appendix examines in greater detail the alleged dependence of the classical foundation on a fixed margin, and argues that the theory of demand is exogenous to the theory of value.


The effect of the carrier fluid viscosity on the buildup of particles in single wire HGMS was studied for the transverse and longitudinal configurations. The collection of Mn 2 P 2 O 7 particles on a nickel wire from a glycerol-water solution was observed by means of a closed-circuit television system. Experimental results for the buildup of particles with time are given and compared with calculations based on a simple model for the buildup process for the longitudinal configuration for upstream buildup. In the longitudinal configuration, increasing amounts of buildup downstream with a corresponding decrease of buildup upstream on the collecting strand, with increasing carrier fluid velocity are again reported.


The history of high occupancy vehicle (HOV) facilities development in California is summarized. The use of HOV facilities in California started in 1970 with HOV bypass lanes at the toll plazas on the Oakland Bay Bridge in the San Francisco area. Milestones include the opening of the El Monte Busway in 1973, the infamous diamond lane on the Santa Monica Freeway in 1976, a resurgence of HOV development between 1985 and 1990, and the adoption of the Urban Freeway concept in 1993. Current projections are that the ultimate California HOV lane system may reach 500 miles. A major effort now is to ensure that the necessary support facilities and services are in place. These include park-and-ride lots, transit services, ridesharing programs, direct connectors, access ramps, enforcement, and other elements.


In analyzing the distribution of residual failure data using the Weibull distribution from the first detection of a failure to the completion of repairing failures, we have proposed the method of applying a weight to each failure. To put it concretely, we have suggested the method of applying a weight according to the importance of each failure within the analytic area in order to manage and measure efficiently the failure data found in the course of confirmation, verification, debugging, adding, and repairing functions collectively. The procedure is carried out after constituting a model switching system and installing a synthesis software package on the HANbit ACE ATM switching system under the development phase, which is the main node in building the B-ISDN for multimedia services.


Settings and Design: • A novel, unique surgical dissection was described as the caudal roll-up technique and was utilized to obtain maximal exposure to the Linea Glutea, with the least morbidity. • Insertion torque (IT) of osseo-integrated dental implants was measured at predetermined positions described as A-F along the ovine linea glutea. • The amount of outer cortical bone was measured at predetermined sections A-F on harvested ovine pelvi, to coincide with the implant positions as placed.


The purpose of this study was to explore new research directions for the Korean school-elite sports system by eliciting the limitations of the literature and provide the logical foundation and rationale for the future policy development of school-elite sports. The authors indicated that the literature on the school-elite sports system in Korea were mainly divided into four types of topics; 1) the decline of basic academic achievement of student-athletes, 2) violence and corporal punishment, 3) athletic leaders, and 4) student-athlete system, and four limitations associated with the preceding studies were also derived from the literature. First, the topics studied in the past were lack of reflection of mutual-influences among various factors surrounding school-elite sports system. Second, since the suggestions provided by the literature had limitations in providing the fundamental resolutions, there was a lack of the in-depth expertise in the topic. Third, due to the restriction of comparative studies with a leading system (i.e., the US system), it is difficult to ensure the objectivity and reliability of the studies. Last, due to the lack of the literature's practicality of various levels of schools, the extent to which the literature reflects the reality was in qeustions. In conclusion, based upon those four limitations, this study provided some directions and suggestions for the follow-up study as well as the development of the future sports policy for the Korean school-elite sports system.


This long promised and lately issued book wants little that the skill of artizan or the genius of artist can furnish. The Entomological brotherhood—those lovers of the net and flask, who, gentler than the historic angler, impale not even a worm until it has become insensible to pain—they and the general public will find some store of delightful reading within its pages.


Multimodal interfaces make it possible to communicate with services in many different ways, and it is claimed that this freedom is particularly useful for disabled persons. To test this hypothesis we have developed a flexible multimodal interface to a public web-based bus-route information service for the Oslo area. The original service is text-based. Our new interface running on a PDA converts the service to a map-based multimodal service supporting speech, graphic/text and pointing modalities. Here users can choose to use speech or point on the map or even use a combination of tap and talk simultaneously (so-called composite multimodality) to specify the required information including arrival and departure stations. The response from the system is read aloud by speech synthesis while the same information is shown textually on the screen. We have carried out two rounds of user-evaluation for this multimodal interface. The first one was a scenario-based evaluation carried out for five disabled users. The main conclusion was that these users' attitude towards the multimodal system was positive and they recognized the advantages and the potential of such systems. Then we carried out an in-depth evaluation of how a dyslectic and an aphasic used our system. These two could neither use the corresponding public speech-based telephone service nor the text-based web-service, but they found the new multimodal interface very useful. Our paper presents the detailed results of these evaluations.


Background Internal splintage of open tibial fractures have gained acceptance as a preferred method of early stabilization of such injuries. Patients and methods Fifty-five patients were operated upon. They were followed from July 2008 to March 2012 (44 months), with an average follow-up time of 23 months. The final results were evaluated through a scheme including seven parameters: pain, union, malunion, infection, range motions of nearby joints, implant and technical failure, and activity and return to the same work. Results According to previous parameters, union was achieved in 52 (94.5%) cases at an average time of 20 weeks (16–52 weeks), with 5.5% incidence of nonunion. Excellent and good range of knee and ankle motions were achieved at the final follow-up visit in 49 (89.09%) cases. The incidence of complication was acceptable; mainly, malunion was found in 7.3%, deep infection in 12.7%, implant and technical failure in 9.1%, and full activity and return to the same work in 89.1% cases. The overall results of our series are as follows: excellent in 19 (34.5%) cases, good in 27 (49.1%) cases, fair in six (10.9%) cases, and poor in three (5.5%) cases. Conclusion Utilizing unreamed interlocking nail for open tibial fractures is a good method of treatment, particularly those of grades II and IIIA. The high proportions of excellent and good results confirm that this technique is superior to all other known methods of fracture fixation.


Barramundi Lates calcarifer is a high economic value fish in Indonesia and Southeast Asia countries. However, the aquaculture system still experiences problems, including the high cost of production, specifically from feed, which is due to its relatively slow growth and low digestibility. Therefore, this study aims to determine alternative ingredients that can be used in the fish diet to improve feed utilization and growth performance using pumpkin flour Cucurbita moschata. A completely randomized design (CRD) with 6 treatments and 3 replications was adopted in this study. The tested diet was (A) diet without pumpkin flour (control), (B) with 5% (C) 10% (D) 15% (E) 20%, and (F) 25%. The size of the Barramundi samples was 3-4 cm on average and the body weight was 1-3 g at the stocking density of 15 fish/container. The fish fed as much as 10% body weight daily, which is divided into 2 times, namely 08.00 AM and 4.00 PM for 60 days. The results showed that the addition of pumpkin flour had a significant effect on weight gain, daily and specific growth rate, survival, feed efficiency, conversion ratio, and carcass protein (P0.05). The diet with 5% pumpkin flour gave the best results over other treatments, with an average weight gain of 0.761 g, feed conversion of 1.578, feed efficiency of 63.455%, and a daily and specific growth rate of 0.012 g and 0.738%, respectively, The highest carcass protein content was found in the control treatment with a value of 18.210%, which was not significantly different from the 5% pumpkin flour treatment. Therefore, it is concluded that pumpkin flour can be added to the Barramundi diet as much as 5%. Keywords: Barramundi, Snapper, pumpkin, feed utilization


In agreement with a recent experimental discovery by Xi et al. (Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 102, 2009, paper no. 044503), we also find a sloshing mode in experiments on the large-scale circulation (LSC) of turbulent Rayleigh–Bénard convection in a cylindrical sample of aspect ratio one. The sloshing mode has the same frequency as the torsional oscillation discovered by Funfschilling & Ahlers (Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 92, 2004, paper no. 1945022004). We show that both modes can be described by an extension of a model developed previously Brown & Ahlers (Phys. Fluids, vol. 20, 2008, pp. 105105-1–105105-15; Phys. Fluids, vol. 20, 2008, pp. 075101-1–075101-16). The extension consists of permitting a lateral displacement of the LSC circulation plane away from the vertical centreline of the sample as well as a variation of the displacement with height (such displacements had been excluded in the original model). Pressure gradients produced by the sidewall of the container on average centre the plane of the LSC so that it prefers to reach its longest diameter. If the LSC is displaced away from this diameter, the walls provide a restoring force. Turbulent fluctuations drive the LSC away from the central alignment, and combined with the restoring force they lead to oscillations. These oscillations are advected along with the LSC. This model yields the correct wavenumber and phase of the oscillations, as well as estimates of the frequency, amplitude and probability distributions of the displacements.


The monoclonal antibody ALZ-50, known to stain degenerating cerebral neurons in Alzheimer disease (AD), demonstrates a protein, A668, that is a modified form of the normal microtubule-associated protein, tau (1 -5). Because of the high incidence of an AD-like dementia in patients with Down syndrome (DS) who reach the age of 35-40 years (6-9), Wolozin et al. (10) studied ALZ-50 staining of temporal lobe neurons of 17 patients with DS aged from 16 fetal weeks to 62 years, finding ALZ-50 staining of these neurons in DS from ages 9 months to 6 years and from 29 to 62 years, whereas in control patients such staining was found from 34 to 36 fetal weeks to age 6 years but not in adults aged 28 to 91 years. These workers proposed that the protein demonstrable by ALZ-50 is developmentally regulated, with its expression reappearing during the third or fourth decade in patients with, but not in those without, DS. Although involvement of olfactory neurons in AD has been reported (1 1, 12), as has the occurrence in bowel wall of amyloid 0protein, a major component of the senile plaques found in the central neurons system in AD (13), we have found no reports on whether the neurons of the enteric nervous system show staining with ALZ-50 in DS or in non-DS infants and children. We have stained 5-pm sections from paraffin blocks of formalin-fixed tissues from various levels of the gastrointestinal tract of 13 DS patients, from 20 weeks of gestational age to 14 years, with biotinylated mouse monoclonal ALZ-50 antibody by a previously described avidin-biotin-horseradish peroxSupported in part by a grant from the Alzheimer Disease Consortium of the Universities of Southern


We reexamine long-term abnormal returns for portfolios sorted on governance characteristics. Firms with strong shareholder rights and firms with weak shareholder rights differ from the population of firms and from each other in how they cluster across industries. Using well-specified tests under this industry clustering, we find statistically zero long-term abnormal returns for portfolios sorted on governance. Our results have important implications for interpreting studies that link governance to firm value and stock returns, demonstrate the importance of the coarseness of industry definitions in financial research, and shed light on addressing statistical problems created by industry clustering in samples. The Author 2009. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Society for Financial Studies. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: email@example.com., Oxford University Press.


In spite of the important role simulation plays in modern scientific investigation and the books and monographs on simulation, the idea of simulation is intimidating to a beginner. There is a need for a short, simple tutorial for a beginner. This paper meets that need and presents a simple procedure for simulating queuing systems.


The general formula AMX3 of inorganic-organic hybrid perovskite materials (A: organic cation, methylammonium (MA) or formamidinium (FA), M: metal, X: halide anion, Br, I) exhibits beneficial properties for high-performance photovoltaic systems such as a suitable band gap (1.5-1.4 eV), high absorption coefficient ( 104-105 cm-1), low exciton binding energy (< 50 meV), and long charge-carrier diffusion length (~175 μm). In addition, these materials exhibit easy crystallization at low-temperature by solution processing, resulting in their low cost. Based on above distinct properties of perovskite materials, we have designed a new photovoltaic platform for efficient perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The performance have been remarkably increased to more than 22% by introducing a mediator to retard the rapid crystallization between organic cations and PbI2, and manipulate the chemical composition of the perovskites via solvent engineering, intramolecular exchange process, and defect engineering, making these routs attractive for attaining low-cost and high-performance devices. Although perovskite solar cells have improved efficiency in the short term, a variety of problems such as long-term stability, the use of nontoxic materials, and large-area modularization must be addressed for commercialization. In this presentation, I will introduce the presenters'' work to improve the efficiency and long-term stability of PSCs and discuss future challenges.


In the 1930s, an innovative adjunct available to anatomy learners was Grant's Atlas of Anatomy and Grant's Museum specimens of regional anatomy. With advancements in technology, learning tools used in anatomy education now also include digital reproductions of cadaveric specimens into 3D or interactive formats. Recent pivoting to online teaching and increased reliance on digital resources makes it a natural progression to advance the legacy of Grant's work with an online library of 3D models matching the museum. Realistic digital models are typically produced by either 3D reconstruction from image data, or photogrammetry, both requiring technical skill and time. Recent advances in light technology scanning equipment like the Artec Space Spider claim to produce a high‐fidelity 3D model within a time frame of 2‐3 hours from scan to finished digital model using their bundled software. In an ongoing project creating 3D models from prosections reproducing Grant's Museum, we aimed to determine the efficiency of digital capture and the final model fidelity using the Artec Space Spider scanner.


In order to improve the machining precision of a complex part,the manufacturing process system was studied.By analyzing the accuracy requirement,the design criteria of process system was proposed.According to the characteristics and process design criteria of the processed part,the appropriate horizontal lathe and cutting tools were selected,and the fixture devices and assistive devices were designed,then the process system was formed by assembling and adjusting the above devices and tools.Clamping the part blank into process system,and designing the process scheme,the part blank was processed with the appropriate cutting conditions.The testing results of the finished part show that the accuracy indicators meet the design requirements,which proved that the designed process system has high precision and engineering practicability.


and cholesterol-lowering drugs, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains the major morbidity and mortality causation in developed countries. The disease-causing lesions originate from benign-looking, non-occlusive, lipid-laden plaques in childhood (fatty streaks) on the internal surface of arteries. These progress to enlarged plaques (atheromas) characterised by accumulation of lipids, chronic inflammatory cells, connective tissue and an overlying fibrous plaque. Their progression leads to stenosis or occlusion of small and medium-sized arteries. Atherosclerotic plaques are also described in terms of complexity and resultant instability. Complexity depends on degree of inflammatory cell infiltration, lipid deposition, calcification and intraplaque haemorrhage. Such complex plaques are unstable and prone to rupture. There is therefore an inflammatory mechanism to plaque instability. Plaque rupture exposes the thrombogenic atheromatous core which leads to sudden thrombotic occlusion of small to medium-sized arteries, such as coronary ones, with familiar serious consequences of unstable angina, myocardial infarction, or sudden death. Stable atherosclerotic lesions are slowgrowing, less complex and have dense fibrous caps. They allow a collateral circulation time to develop, are less likely to rupture and are therefore less threatening. Aortic atherosclerotic plaques are mainly confined to its abdominal portion. The aortic lumen is too wide for ruptured plaques to cause aortic thrombotic occlusion, but they may weaken the arterial wall and cause abdominal aortic aneurysm. Intermittent showers of tiny thrombi from ruptured aortic plaques are likely to end up in renal and leg skin arterioles, eventually leading to renal failure and lower limb ischaemic problems. Atherosclerosis is now recognised to be fundamentally an inflammatory disease. The inciting event is dysfunction of the arterial inner lining cells (endothelium), leading to inflammatory cell infiltration and release of proinflammatory cytokines within the arterial wall. Low density lipoproteins (LDL) are thought to be more likely to be trapped in the lesion when oxidised. Smooth muscle cells of the arterial wall are triggered to migrate into the plaque and to produce a collagen-rich matrix and a fibrous plaque. Cardiovascular risk factors promote atherosclerosis by damaging the endothelium – the latter is involved in regulating vascular tone, inflammation and thrombosis. Healthy endothelium releases nitric oxide (NO) to induce vasodilatation in response to, say, platelet aggregation1. NO also reduces expression of adhesion molecules to prevent macrophage infiltration and dampens vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation1. These are protective mechanisms against atherosclerosis. Cardiovascular risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, diabetes, obesity and hypercholesterolaemia induce endothelial dysfunction through mechanisms such as free radical oxidation, haemodynamic strain and genetic pathways1. Dysfunctional endothelial cells (EC) acquire a "Hardening of the arteries" and its serious complications have been studied for well over a hundred years. The following is an outline of recent advances in our understanding of its causation, progression, diagnosis and some aspects of management. Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Pathogenesis, Diagnosis & Management Update AlBERT cIlIA-VINcENTI NUTRITIONAL MEdICINE


We propose a concept of evolvable analog LSIs and apply it to (1) Intermediate Frequency (IF) filters and (2) Image-Rejection Mixers (IRM). The developed LSI for IF filters have attained (1) a 63% reduction in filter area, (2) a 26% reduction in power dissipation, compared to existing commercial products using both the same process technology and filter topology, and (3) a yield rate of 97%. The developed chip is caUbrated within a few seconds by the genetic algorithm (GA). The developed microwave circuit for IRM is also calibrated by GA to outperform a circuit adjusted by an experienced engineer. Our calibration method, which can be applied to a wide variety of analog circuits, leads to cost reductions £ind the efficient implementation of analog LSIs.


Abstract Although normally the copolymers used to remove water from crude oil have a block structure, two series of random acrylic copolymers were evaluated as petroleum demulsifiers. These acrylic copolymers, with two different butyl acrylate (BuA) and 2-ethylhexyl acrylate (2-EHA) contents, were synthesized by semi-continuous emulsion polymerization. Their weight-average molar mass () was varied by modifying the amount of chain transfer agent relative to the monomers from 0 to 8 wt%. FTIR and 13C-NMR spectroscopies confirmed that the conversion of the monomers was complete. The synthesized acrylic copolymers were subsequently evaluated as demulsifier agents in a Mexican heavy crude oil (10.24°API). Copolymers with 70 wt% butyl acrylate monomer and a weight-average molar mass above of 11 000 g mol−1 presented the greatest ability to remove emulsified water from the system. The demulsifying capability of the copolymer was evidenced to be strongly dependent on their molecular mass. Highlights Synthesis of random acrylic copolymers (BuA-co-2-EHA) of different average molar mass (). Evaluation of random acrylic copolymers as demulsifiers of heavy crude oil. Weight-average molar mass () and monomer composition play an important role on the performance of random acrylic copolymers as demulsifiers. Graphical Abstract


This article reports the results of an experiment that tested the effects of cultural familiarity on the reading comprehension of native Korean-speaking students of English as a foreign language. The participants were 94 intermediate-proficiency students from elementary school to college, who were randomly assigned to two groups. The experimental materials were two versions (one original, one adjusted) of four English reading passages in three different genres: diary, report, and short stories. The original texts were adjusted by being nativized, which was done by changing elements of the text to increase the degree to which the content would be culturally familiar to the participants. Each group was given four readings (two original texts, two adjusted texts). Group A read the original version and Group B read the adjusted version of two of the readings for the other two readings, Group A read the adjusted version and Group B read the original version. The study's results show that cultural familiarity has a direct influence on reading comprehension and that EFL learners can benefit from materials that activate their cultural knowledge.


A comparison of two independent populations of chronic schizophrenic patients, classified on the basis of Leonhard's system, revealed striking similarities in the distribution of subtypes. The findings lend support to the clinical relevance of Leonhard's taxonomy.


Clinical and laboratory examination of 100 pregnant women with hypertension found violations of the utero-placental blood flow, progression of fetoplacental dysfunction, intrauterine growth retardation, infants with low birth weight to gestational age, which significantly worsens during pregnancy due to the combined influence of family history of cardiovascular disease and other trigger factors, including the use of combined oral contraceptives that provokes atherogenic lesions of arterial vessels against metabolic changes, angiopathy and development of cardiovascular remodelling.


STUDY OBJECTIVES
The central disorders of hypersomnolence (CDH) manifest with daytime sleepiness, often accompanied by cognitive symptoms. Objective tests characterizing cognitive dysfunction may have diagnostic utility. Further, because some people with CDH report worsening cognition upon awakening, cognitive testing before and after napping may provide additional diagnostic information.

METHODS
CDH patients with idiopathic hypersomnia (n = 76), narcolepsy type 1 (n = 19), narcolepsy type 2 (n = 22), and self-reported excessive daytime sleepiness not meeting current diagnostic criteria (n = 76), and non-sleepy controls (n = 33) underwent testing with the psychomotor vigilance test (PVT), a 10-minute reaction time test. A subset of participants underwent repeat testing during a Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT), before and immediately after naps 2 and 4.

RESULTS
Most PVT metrics were significantly better in controls than in patients with CDH. Minimal group differences in PVT performance were observed by CDH diagnosis. PVT performance was weakly correlated to Epworth and MSLT mean sleep latency in the CDH group. Before and after naps, PVT metrics were minimally different for controls, while PVT performance generally worsened following naps in the CDH group, with significant worsening compared to controls for nap 2 mean, median, lapses, and fastest 10% of responses, and nap 4 lapses and slowest 10% of responses. Change in performance did not differ based on CDH diagnostic group for any metric on either nap.

CONCLUSIONS
The PVT, at baseline and following a short nap, may provide adjunctive diagnostic utility in separating individuals with CDH from controls.


University of Tirana, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Bulevardi "ZOG I", 2000 Tirane, Albania. *Corresponding author: firstname.lastname@example.com ABSTRACTARTICLE INFO Keywords: Phytoplankton DNA, Chlorophyll a, environment factors, trophy INTRODUCTION Durres Bay is located between Selita Cape (Lagj) in south and Durres Cape in north, that are 20 km far away from each others. The coastline of Durres Bay is 7 km in the east and the highest width is in Golem Beach. In this bay are known two types of coasts: the low coast where there are dominated storage processes, and high coast where are dominated abrasion processes. The first coast covers from Dajlan Bridge to Karpen, whereas the second coast covers the Karpen-Lagj Cape and Currila area (www.updurres.com.al.). Coastal water are a very dynamic environment since they are influenced by both terrestrial inputs, natural and anthropogenic, as well as from inshore – offshore water exchanges, weather conditions and wind – driven water movements. In addition, coastal bathymetry complicates the system response to various inputs. All these physical mechanisms and the fact that nutrient transformations, nutrient uptake and phytoplankton growth proceed at a high rate, suggest that the trophic status of a coastal area should not be considered as an almost static entity (Giovanardi and Vollenweider, 2004). The first aim of this study was to access DNA phytoplankton in marine coastal waters of the Durres Bay. The most commonly used methodologies for quantifying the amount of nucleic acid in a preparation are: (i) gel electrophoresis; and (ii) spectrophotometric analysis. At present, we have used only the spectrophotometric analysis. Analysis of UV absorption by the nucleotides provides a simple and accurate estimation of the concentration of nucleic acids in a sample. The ratio of OD


Present study describes the development and validation of a high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) assay for the simultaneous quantification of atorvastatin and celecoxib in human serum and pharmaceutical formulations. The separation was carried out on Bondapak, C18 (10 μm, 25×0.46 cm) column using mobile phase 80:20 methanol-water of pH 3.5, maintained with o-phosphoric acid. The method was optimized using multivariate technique and detector response was recorded at five different wavelengths. Chromatography was performed at ambient temperature by pumping the mobile phase at a flow rate of 1.0 mL min-1. Calibration curves were found to be linear with correlation coefficient greater than 0.998 over the concentration range 2-60 and 2-70 ng mL-1 with detection limits 0.024 and 0.019 ng mL-1 in bulk drug and 0.04 and 0.01 ng mL-1 in serum at isobestic point. The method was validated for specificity, selectivity, and linearity, accuracy, precision and intermediate precision. The proposed method is valid for the determination of drugs in pharmaceutical formulations without interference of excipients. Recovery values of both drugs were 99.33 to 101.65%. Moreover the in vitro interaction studies of atorvastatin in presence of celecoxib were carried out at physiological temperature (37°C), simulating stomach environment and the reactions were studied by RP-HPLC.


This research aims to test the role of Financial Technology (Fintech) in mediating the Islamic Financial Literacy (IFL) influence on Islamic financial inclusion (IFI) in Banda Aceh City, Indonesia. The research population was the people of Banda Aceh, which is 252,899 people. The sample amounted to 300 people, who were the number productive age population in the age range of 15-64 years in Banda Aceh City. Data were collected (primary data) taken by distributing questionnaires to all respondents and were tested using SEM-AMOS. The results reveal that IFL influences Fintech, IFL influences Islamic IFI, Fintech influences IFI, and IFL influences IFI through Fintech. The results also prove that Fintech in the research model functions as a partial mediation, which means that IFL can affect IFI directly or through Fintech mediators. The findings at the same time prove that the model of increasing IFI is a function of increasing IFL and increasing the use of Fintech.


Rhenium (Re) concentrations in 450 samples collected from 45 Japanese rivers were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to understand Re behavior in the geological environments. The isotope dilution method (ID), which included chemical separation and concentration steps, was applied to obtain Re recovery. Using the ID method we concentrated Re in the water 20 times. Direct sample injection was also carried out to compare the results with ID; agreement was good, but ID had lower relative standard deviations with almost 100% Re recovery from the water. The geometric mean was 0.81 ng/L. When the Re concentrations in the uppermost sampling point of each river and 60 other chemical properties in the waters were compared, good correlations were observed with 12 elements and ions; the highest correlation was observed with . The results implied that the possible chemical form for Re in parent rocks was sulfides.


In this note we extend the results of [1] to the case of semigroups that are not necessarily embeddable in groups. For measures we use the terminology of [2]. All measures are assumed to be non-zero and Borel. Throughout what follows 5 is a left ideal of a semigroup T. A measure μ on 5 is said to be left-invariant with respect to Τ if μ(αΑ) = μ(Α) under the condition that A and aA are measurable (a e T). A semigroup S is called a left-semitopological subsemigroup of Τ if S is a Hausdorff space and the left translations λ<,: χ ι—*· αχ are continuous maps for every a e T. If all the \j (a e Γ) are open maps, then 5 is called a semigroup with open left translations. Definition. A semigroup S is called a left-homogeneous subsemigroup of Τ if S cannot be split into two left ideals of T.


Dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L., cv. 'BRS Requinte') is an important legume crop and nutrient availability is one of the most yields limiting factors for bean production in tropical upland soils. A greenhouse experiment was conducted in Brazilian Oxisol to study growth, nutrient uptake, and use efficiency of macro- and micronutrients during growth cycle of bean plant. Plants were harvested at 15, 30, 45, 60, 73, and 99 days after sowing for determination of growth parameters and uptake of nutrients. Root dry weight, shoot dry weight and leaf trifoliate increased significantly (P< 0.01) in a quadratic fashion with the advancement of plant age. However, root-shoot ratio decreased significantly with increasing plant age. Concentrations of nitrogen (N), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and zinc (Zn) decreased with the advancement of plant age. However, concentrations of phosphorus (P), potassium (K), copper (Cu), and manganese (Mn) increased significantly with the advancement of plant age. Accumulation of macro- and micronutrients significantly increased with the increasing plant age. Accumulation of N, P, K and Cu was higher in the grain compared with root and shoot, indicating relatively higher importance of these nutrients in improving grain yield of dry bean. Nitrogen, P and Cu use efficiency was higher for shoot weight compared to grain weight. For grain production, nutrient use efficiency was in the order of Mg > Ca > P > K > N for macronutrients and Cu > Zn = Mn for micronutrients.


Analysis of a driver's head behavior is an integral part of a driver monitoring system. In particular, the head pose and dynamics are strong indicators of a driver's focus of attention. Many existing state-of-the-art head dynamic analyzers are, however, limited to single-camera perspectives, which are susceptible to occlusion of facial features from spatially large head movements away from the frontal pose. Nonfrontal glances away from the road ahead, however, are of special interest since interesting events, which are critical to driver safety, occur during those times. In this paper, we present a distributed camera framework for head movement analysis, with emphasis on the ability to robustly and continuously operate even during large head movements. The proposed system tracks facial features and analyzes their geometric configuration to estimate the head pose using a 3-D model. We present two such solutions that additionally exploit the constraints that are present in a driving context and video data to improve tracking accuracy and computation time. Furthermore, we conduct a thorough comparative study with different camera configurations. For experimental evaluations, we collected a novel head pose data set from naturalistic on-road driving in urban streets and freeways, with particular emphasis on events inducing spatially large head movements (e.g., merge and lane change). Our analyses show promising results.


Blood is a specialized body fluid that delivers ne cessary substances to the body cells such as nutrients and oxygen and transports waste products away from those cells. Artificial blood is supposed to fulfil some functions of biological blood, especially in humans. The initial goal of oxygen carrying blo od substitutes is merely to mimic blood's oxygen transport capacity. There is additional longer range research on true artificia l RBCs and WBCs which could theoretically compose a blood substitute with higher fidelity to human blood. Unfortunately, oxygen transport has been very difficult to reproduce. There are two basic approaches to construct oxygen therapeutic: perflurocarbons (PFCs), a chemical compound which can carry and release oxygen. The specific PFC usually used is perfluorodecalin. Perfluorochem icals will not mix with blood; therefore emulsions must be made by dispersing small drops of PFC in water. This liquid is then mixed with antibiotics, vitamins, nutrients and salts, producing a mixture that contains about 80 differe nt components, and perfo rms many of the vital functions of natural blood. This can benefit damaged, blood - starved tissue, which conventional RBC cannot reach. Therefore the artificial blood is a good tool for the survival of patients at the time of surgery when blood loss is high er. By providing a PFC solution we can maintain the circulating blood volume as well as the need of the patients. PFC solutions can carry oxygen so well that mammals and humans can survive breath ing liquid PFC solution, called liquid breathing.


Location of the loose parts is a important content in the nuclear loose parts monitoring system. The exact calculation of the time delay is the key step to raise precision. The time delay with continuous wavelet transformation are calculated, and experiment with triangle location is done. The result shows that wavelet transformation can dam the random noise and get the more exact location of the odd point.


the notion of papal authority is also to be found in the excrement of yellow-bellied aristocrats,4 for an interesting gloss on this point. Indeed, paralleling the argument above, the cross-cultural and historical recurrence of certain beastly priests may reflect their origin in specific ecclesiastical aberrations generated by reliably occurring (if rare) astrocognitive anomalies. We hold half-dead midgets! Moreover, the dominant metaphysical account of thing-a-ma-jig invokes mauve apricots, peaches, and even, upon occasion, cocks horse. (Whether these phenomena are construed as mentholated cough sweets or crumbs may depend on the particular cultural and historical context.5,6


The channel model optimization algorithm plays a critical role in novel communication method research. Wireless sensor connections using capacitive coupling communication inside a metal cabinet such as spacecraft are an emerging communication technology. However, channel modeling along with optimization methods have not been systematically investigated. In this paper, a modified artificial immune algorithm (MAIA) was developed to optimize a few tens of model parameters for the capacitive coupling communication channel within a metal cabinet. The mathematical model of the communication channel was derived from the equivalent circuit model by analyzing the capacitive coupling electric field distribution. Unknown parameters in the model were optimally estimated by adopting MAIA with the objective of minimizing the root mean square error (RMSE) between the model computed data and simulation or experimental data. The proposed scheme enhanced the convergence performance by incorporating the artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm, modifying the strategies of immune operations and introducing a similarity detection step. Validation results showed that the frequency response of the optimized model matched well with the simulation and experimental data, verifying the feasibility and robustness of the proposed MAIA. Compared with three other state-of-the-art ABC algorithms and three enhanced intelligent algorithms, it was demonstrated that the proposed algorithm performed better with respect to convergence speed and accuracy. The study provided a multiparameter channel model estimation solution for capacitive coupling communication within a metal cabinet research.


For students to write code, they should be able to understand the purpose of code written by others. How students learn to read code at a higher-level beyond tracing (mental execution) is not well-understood. The goal of my research is to understand how to teach students to read code at a higher-level.


632 Background: Crosstalk between the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) and HER2 pathways in multiple preclinical models suggest a mechanism of resistance to HER2-targeted therapy. Cixutumumab (CIX, IMC-A12), an anti-IGF-1 Receptor monoclonal antibody, was investigated in combination with capecitabine and lapatinib (cape/lap) to determine if the addition of an IGF target agent would improve PFS compared to cape/lap in unselected HER2+ metastatic breast cancer (mbc) patients (pts). IGF binding protein (IGFBP) levels may be important in predicting tumor dependence on IGF signaling and are potential biomarkers. Methods: Following an initial safety cohort, this open label phase II study randomized (2:1) pts to cape/lap with CIX (Arm B) or cape/lap (Arm A). Primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) with 144 pts planned for a target hazard ratio of 0.56. PFS was estimated using Kaplan-Meier and compared using Cox regression. Secondary endpoints included assessing the overall survival and treatment tol...


Background: EMILIN-3 is the least characterized member of the EMILIN/Multimerin family. Results: EMILIN-3 forms homotrimers and higher order oligomers, binds heparin, has a dynamic expression during development and a restricted distribution in adult tissues, and serves as a pro-TGF-β antagonist. Conclusion: The structure and expression of EMILIN-3 are different from other EMILINs/Multimerins. Significance: EMILIN-3, a TGF-β antagonist, is likely to be an important regulator during development of several tissues. EMILIN-3 is a glycoprotein of the extracellular matrix belonging to a family that contains a characteristic N-terminal cysteine-rich EMI domain. Currently, EMILIN-3 is the least characterized member of the elastin microfibril interface-located protein (EMILIN)/Multimerin family. Using RNA, immunohistochemical, and protein chemistry approaches, we carried out a detailed characterization of the expression and biochemical properties of EMILIN-3 in mouse. During embryonic and postnatal development, EMILIN-3 showed a peculiar and dynamic pattern of gene expression and protein distribution. EMILIN-3 mRNA was first detected at E8.5–E9.5 in the tail bud and in the primitive gut, and at later stages it became abundant in the developing gonads and osteogenic mesenchyme. Interestingly and in contrast to other EMILIN/Multimerin genes, EMILIN-3 was not found in the cardiovascular system. Despite the absence of the globular C1q domain, immunoprecipitation and Western blot analyses demonstrated that EMILIN-3 forms disulfide-bonded homotrimers and higher order oligomers. Circular dichroism spectroscopy indicated that the most C-terminal part of EMILIN-3 has a substantial α-helical content and forms coiled coil structures involved in EMILIN-3 homo-oligomerization. Transfection experiments with recombinant constructs showed that the EMI domain contributes to the higher order self-assembly but was dispensable for homotrimer formation. EMILIN-3 was found to bind heparin with high affinity, a property mediated by the EMI domain, thus revealing a new function for this domain that may contribute to the interaction of EMILIN-3 with other extracellular matrix and/or cell surface molecules. Finally, in vitro experiments showed that EMILIN-3 is able to function as an extracellular regulator of the activity of TGF-β ligands.


Heat stress in production agriculture can result in losses due to reduced growth or death. Currently, available climate models predict that duration and regional expansion of heat stress is likely to increase. The purpose of the present study was to determine the extent to which prenatal hyperthermia alters the response to subsequent heat stress. Pregnant sows were exposed to thermoneutral (TN; n = 9; stable 25°C) or heat stress (HS; n = 7; 24 hr cyclic 25–35°C) conditions for the duration of gestation. After weaning, resultant offspring were allowed to mature to three months before exposure to a constant temperature of 35°C for a period of 24‐hrs. Rectal temperatures (Tr) increased similarly between groups; however, skin temperature (Ts) was significantly higher following 16 and 20 hrs of heating in HS compared to TN and the cumulative effect of heating on Ts tended to be 1% higher in HS compared to TN (P = 0.06). The difference between Tr and Ts was 1.3°C and 2.2°C greater (P < 0.05) following 16 and 20 hrs of heating, respectively, and the cumulative difference was approximately 50% greater in HS compared to TN. These data indicate heat stress applied during prenatal development could modify fetal programming such that the response to heat stress encountered later in life is altered. Supported by USDA/NIFA.


The atmosphere may act as an important source of chemical elements for the Atlantic Forest, one of the hottest world biodiversity hotspots. However, chemical responses for chemical element availability are not expected to be equal for each plant species. In this sense, the present work encompasses a baseline study for biomonitoring purposes based on the identification of different strategies of native tree species in accumulating chemical elements. Instrumental neutron activation analysis was employed for chemical characterisation of leaf and soil compartments. Results indicated a low level of pollution because the major part of the studied species has shown chemical mass fractions within the expected range in leaf compartment. By estimating leaf-soil bioaccumulation factor, some species were found to accumulate the nutrients Co, Na, Se and Zn, some trace elements Br, Ba, Cs, Hg, Rb, Sc and Sr and the lanthanides Ce, La and Sm despite the environmental variability.


It is important to define exactly the characters of creditor's acceptance of payment from the debtor for deciding the legal effect of deferred acceptance. Reviewing legislations and justice practices all over the world, the creditor's acceptance of payment is a kind of combination of right and obligation. The delay of it mostly leads to the responsibility of deferred performance, or responsibility of breaking contract under the law or contract,However, the creditor will bear no responsibility under some certain circumstance.


Abstract The area of S-Motzkin paths (bijective to ternary trees) is calculated using the kernel method by enumerating these (partial) paths with fixed end-point resp. starting point.


The purposes of the research are (1) to describe the lingual forms used by Minangkabau people in developing in the myth of palasik; (2) to explain the functions and meanings of lingual forms in the myths of palasik used by the Minangkabau people; and (3) to explain the pattern of women's education in Minangkabau through lingual forms in the palasik myth. The method of the research is the descriptive research method proposed by Taylor, Bogdan, and DeVault (2015) to produce descriptive data in the form of lingual forms used by Minangkabau people in palasik myths, and Cresweel (2018) to explain the pattern of women's education in social tradition aspects of the Minangkabau people, especially through the palasik myth. The results of the research found that (1) the palasik myths developes in Minangnese society through lingual forms, such as the prohibition of pregnant women and nursing mothers to go outside the home; prohibition of drying baby clothes outside the home; the prohibition of avoiding people who follow Palasik black magic; obligation for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and babies to use amulets, attach garlic to clothes, and use white iron in their hands; and the obligation to wear an undershirt or reversed shirt to the baby; (2) the functions and meanings of lingual forms in palasik myths are spiritual functions to control social life and psychological functions to control individual life; and (3) the Minangnese have an educational pattern for women, especially for pregnant women and nursing mothers in taking care of themselves and babies.


Real-time 3D transesophageal imaging has advanced significantly over the past several years. In our laboratory, we currently use real-time 3D transesophageal imaging in addition to multiplane 2D imaging in all of our transesophageal imaging. As the equipment and software continue to advance, new imaging modes and views become available. Recently we started using a new view, which we named the 4V (4-valve) view. We found that it can be acquired in all patients undergoing a transesophageal imaging and provides a new perspective on cardiac anatomy (Figure 1 and onlineonly Supplemental Video). The 4V view is most easily acquired from the midesophageal position, at a transducer angle of 0°. A 4-chamber view is the starting 2D view (Figure 2A). Once an adequate image is attained, the real-time full-volume mode is activated. At this point, an automatically cropped image is obtained, showing both ventricles and the posterior aspect of the atrioventricular valves. The lateral dimensions of this image are increased, such that both the mitral and tricuspid valves are completely included in the image (Figure 2C). Given that such a large data set is being acquired, the image frame rate drops significantly. If the patient is in a regular rhythm, changing to acquisition over a 2-beat gating can be helpful. However, this may create "stitching" artifacts that may be quite pronounced, especially in patients with irregular heart rhythm, degrading the image quality. Once the atrioventricular valves are visualized, the image is tilted forward slightly so the valves are visualized from the atrial perspective (Figure 2C). Finally, the cropping is reset such that the whole data set is visualized. This brings into view the anterior half of the image, showing the aortic and pulmonic valves (Figure 2D). The obtained 4V view is a new way to look at the heart. It allows for true appreciation of the normal cardiac anatomy as well as insights into cardiac pathology. For example, imaging of atrial septal defect and defining the presence or absence of adequate rim around the defect to determine suitability for percutaneous closure is remarkably intuitive when using this technique (Figure 3A and 3B). It is also possible that this view might be useful in appreciation of other complex congenital pathologies (eg, transposition of the great vessels). The intervalvular fibrosa, that is, the area between the anterior mitral leaflet and the aortic valve (known also as the aortomitral curtain) is very well visualized with the 4V view, which is important in cases of endocarditis and suspected intracardiac abscess. The spatial relationships of the 4 valves become clear when observed on the 4V view, allowing for precise anatomic definition of focal pathologies such as site of mitral prosthesis dehiscence. Although this view might be acquired by using other imaging modalities (eg, volume-rendered CT scanning), attaining it may require significant postprocessing with special off-line cropping. The echocardiographic 4V view can be obtained in real time, with only minimal manipulation of the image data (as shown in Figure 2). Although our new 4V view appears to be very helpful and potentially instrumental for clear anatomic delineation of cardiac anatomy and pathology, it should be used in conjunction with other echocardiographic views (both 2D and 3D) for accurate and comprehensive diagnosis.


Multiphase flow analysis attracts a lot of attention from researchers from diverse disciplines. There are several studies including experimental, theoretical modeling, and numerical analysis that were carried out to investigate the multiphase flow. However, many facets of multiphase flow are still unresolved owing to the extremely complex nature of the multiphase flow. The complex interactions of the different phases are leading to different flow regimes that are difficult to predict but essential for developing the computational model. The identification of the flow pattern is still a challenging task. One of the growing fields is the machine learning approach, which can address such complex problems. This study aims to use machine learning to develop models that can identify the flow patterns in multiphase flow.
 To achieve the objective, a large set of experimental data was collected. The effect of fluid properties, such as density, viscosity, and surface tension, on the flow pattern was introduced by changing the fluid properties. The wide range of data was processed by applying a machine learning technique for predicting the flow regimes. The models were built using dimensionless parameters to extend their validity for various design and operational conditions. This approach enables to capture the main flow pattern as well as subcategories of flow patterns in the horizontal pipe. Comparison and analyses of the different machine learning tools were carried out to investigate classification of multiphase flow patterns.
 The results showed that different artificial intelligence (AI) methods can predict the flow pattern in horizontal pipes with high accuracy. The results of using Reynold's number for liquid (ReL) and gas (ReG) as an input to predict the flow patterns are deficient in accuracy for the support vector machine (SVM) and discriminant analysis (DA). However, the prediction capability of the model was improved by introducing Weber's number for liquid (WeL) and gas (WeG) along with the Reynolds numbers (ReL and ReG). The improvement in the flow pattern prediction owing to the introduction of Weber's number is speculated because of the capturing hydrodynamic phenomenon (inertia and surface tension) owing to change in fluid properties. It infers that capturing hydrodynamic phenomena affecting the flow pattern and their transition is essential for the prediction of flow patterns in multiphase flow.


Standard tabu search methods are based on the complete exploration of current solution neighborhood. However, for some problems with very large neighborhood or time-consuming evaluation, the total exploration of the neighborhood is impractical. In this paper, we present an adaptive exploration of neighborhood using extension and restriction mechanisms represented by a loop detection mechanism and a tabu list structure. This approach is applied to the K-coloring problem and evaluated on standard benchmarks like DIMACS in comparison with more powerful recently published algorithms


The Triassic Yanchang formation Chang 7 member oil shale is mainly distributed in the southern of Ordos basin.The thickness of these layers from 10 to 30 meters(with the thickest exceeds 40 meters),which is proved has gas generating capacity by gas-testing.Yanchang formation depositional stage was at the height of power and splendour of the Ordos basin development,while at Chang 7 member,the lake basin ranged to the maximum.With the research on the relationship between the distribution of Chang 7 member oil shale and the distribution of sedimentary facies,it is concluded the distribution of oil shale in Ordos Basin?is controlled by the depositional environments significantly.The oil shale formed from deep lake to half-deep lake depositional environment are higher thickness,widely spreading,and with simple basin structure,easily developed.In this paper,it is estimated that the magnitude of Chang 7 oil shale is about(4.47~8.83)×1012 m3 by the method of resource abundance analogue.Therefore,Chang 7 oil shale in Ordos basin has a vast range of prospects for exploration and development.


The expression of receptor for androgen (AR), oestrogen alpha and beta (ERalpha and ERbeta) and progesterone (PR) was examined immunohistochemically in canine prostate specimens (normal, hyperplastic, inflamed [prostatitis] or neoplastic). AR immunolabelling was seen in 100% of epithelial cells of normal and hyperplastic tissue, the corresponding figures for inflamed and carcinomatous tissue being 74% and 65%, respectively. ERalpha labelling was seen in 85% of epithelial cells in normal prostate glands, the corresponding figures for hyperplastic, inflamed and neoplastic glands being 35%, 22% and 12%, respectively. ERbeta labelling was seen in 85% of epithelial cells of normal glands and in about 70% of such cells in glands showing pathological changes. On the other hand, PR expression (weak) in normal glands was observed in fewer epithelial cells (44%) than in hyperplastic (70%), inflamed (62%) or neoplastic (64%) glands.


The study aimed to assess the suitability of slow-acting fertilizer in cultivation of Chinese cabbage in the integrated production system. The assumed objective was realized on the basis of a strict field experiment set up on the soil with granulometric composition of medium loam. The test plant was Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L.), 'Parkin F1' cv. The experiment was set up on 17.08.2011 and the plants were harvested on 08.10.2011. The experimental factor was diversified fertilization. The cultivation and protection of the plants were conducted on the basis of methodology of Chinese cabbage integrated production approved by the Main Inspector for Plant Protection and Seed Science. Traditional fertilizers (triple superphosphate, potassium salt and ammonium nitrate) and NPKCaMg (18-05-10-4-2) multi-component fertilizer with nutrient slow-release were applied. The experiment comprised 8 fertilization variants and the control treatment. Doses of phosphorus and potassium, meeting the plants requirements at assumed yield amount, were applied in all fertilization variants. Nitrogen fertilization on subsequent objects differed both with the form and quantity of applied element. On the basis of the results obtained in conducted experiments, the indices showing nitrogen fertilization efficiency were computed: agronomic efficiency, partial factor productivity, physiological efficiency, nitrogen recovery efficiency and removal efficiency. Fertilization significantly modified the quantity of obtained yield. On the control, without mineral fertilization, the crop yield was 44.22 Mg ha -1 . The largest yield, 120.7 Mg ha -1 , was obtained on the object with an admixture of 400 kg of slow-acting fertilizer, 89 kg of triple superphosphate and 177 kg of potassium salt. The best optimal values of fertilization efficiency were obtained in the objects where 400 and 500 kg ha -1 of slow-acting fertilizer and full doses of phosphorus and potassium were applied. Computed indices of fertilization efficiency indicate that optimization of fertilization using slow-acting fertilizer, particularly in conditions of intensive cultivation, may improve fertilization efficiency several-fold in comparison with integrated production methods using traditional fertilizers. Results of conducted experiments show that optimization of fertilization in conditions of intensive production may enhance fertilizer nitrogen uptake by 50 % at maintained high crop yields, which greatly improves economic effectiveness of production and reduces the amount of biogens dispersed in the environment.


The utility model relates to an ability system of mending is synthesized to car based on mobile internet, this system include cloud platform, first terminal, second terminal, and the cloud platform isconnected through wireless network and first terminal, second terminal, realize the for clients mend can the demand send, correspond mend can the resource distribution, for clients mend can the service order issue mend with the for clients and professionally to guide, further benefit can the system still includes benefit ability demand analysis server, scheduling policy server, resource management server, the vehicle mandate controlling means who is connected through communication line and cloud platform to and can the resource with vehicle state detection device, benefit that the resource management server is connected through wireless network. Through the utility model discloses the customer can be acquireed effectively and the ability demand is mended to and carry on more effectively the attendant with mend can the resource the dispatch, realized that convenient and fast's the vehicle energy supplyes, for the for clients mended can the service provision technical support.


The monodisperse CeO 2 nanoparticles were prepared by using modified two phase liquid-liquid method, the morphology and structure were characterized by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction methods.


The article describes the basics of radiation detectors used in direct digital radiography dr. various types of flat panel detectors (FPd) have been characterized for their usefulness in non-destructive testing. The indirect panels based on the a-si matrix with tFt transistors, which are currently the most useful option for non-destructive testing, are discussed in more detail. The most important parameters of flat panel detectors have been analyzed in the aspect of their applications for the examination of welded joints and other products tested so far by traditional radiographic method.


Objective To investigate the extracellular release of high mobility group box 1(HMGB1) in macrophages induced by hypoxia and its possible mechanism.Methods The changes of HMGB1 mRNA expression,HMGB1 concentration in the culture medium and the intracellular distribution of HMGB1 were investigated after RAW264.7 macrophages were subjected to hypoxia(1% O2) with different hours.Inhibitory effect of N-acetylcysteine was observed on HMGB1 release.The HMGB1 concentration and the level of HMGB1 mRNA expression were determined by ELISA and real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR,respectively.Results The level of HMGB1 mRNA expression increased after RAW264.7 macrophages were subjected to hypoxia culture for 6 h(P0.05).The HMGB1 concentration in the culture medium significantly increased and nuclear HMGB1 was translocated to the cytoplasm after hypoxia culture for 12 h(P0.01).N-acetylcysteine partly inhibited extracellular release of HMGB1 in hypoxia-cultured RAW264.7 macrophages in a dose-dependent manner.Conclusion Hypoxia induces macrophages to release HMGB1,which may be involved with intracellular production of reactive oxygen species.


Tourist culture translation,whose primary functions are to transmit information and induce action,is considered as a typical type of intercultural communicative translation. Based on the tourism translation status quo,this paper examines the application of domestication and foreignization in translating to boost the development of Hainan international tourist destination.


Ophthalmic drug delivery is one of the most interesting and challenging endeavors being faced by the pharmaceutical companies in the market. The major problem associated with the conventional dosage forms is the bioavailability of drug. In Ophthalmic formulation to the eye like solutions, suspensions and ointments are available in the market shows drawbacks such as increased precorneal elimination, high variability in efficiency, and blurred vision. To overcome the conventional dosage formulations there were a drug-eluting contact lens to provide controlled release of drug for a longer period of time using Liposomes, Niosomes, Pharmacosomes and Discomes. This review focuses on recent development in ophthalmic dosage formulations and products used to achieve prolonged contact time of drug with the cornea and increase their bioavailability. Currently, the knowledge in this field is rapidly expanding, and many concept and drug delivery strategies are emerging out.


Objective
To compare the incidence of cardiopulmonary complications between treatment of video assisted thoracoscopic operation and traditional thoracotomy operation in elderly patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

Methods
122 cases of elderly patients with non-small cell lung cancer were treated in our hospital from Mar 2010 to Jun 2014, and randomly divided into observation group (therapeutic lobectomy by video-assisted thoracoscopic operation) and control group (therapeutic lobectomy by traditional thoracotomy operation) (n=61, each). The postoperative cardiopulmonary complications and relevant indexes of cardiopulmonary function were analyzed and compared between the two groups.

Results
Before operation, there was no significant difference in the relevant indexes of cardiopulmonary function between the two groups (P>0.05). After operation, the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and maximal ventilatory volume (MMV) were higher and the heart rate was lower in observation group than in control group (t=3.682, 2.243, 5.677, all P<0.05). The incidence of cardiopulmonary complication was lower in observation group than in control group (13.1% vs. 27.9%, χ2=4.075, P=0.044).

Conclusions
Video-assisted thoracoscopic operation is better for the recovery of cardiopulmonary function, and can reduce cardiopulmonary complication in elderly patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

Key words:
Thoracoscopes; Cacinoma, non-small-cell lung; Postoperative complications


Abstract A new approach to target development for laboratory astrophysics experiments at high-power laser facilities is presented. With the dawn of high-power lasers, laboratory astrophysics has emerged as a field, bringing insight into physical processes in astrophysical objects, such as the formation of stars. An important factor for success in these experiments is targetry. To date, targets have mainly relied on expensive and challenging microfabrication methods. The design presented incorporates replaceable machined parts that assemble into a structure that defines the experimental geometry. This can make targets cheaper and faster to manufacture, while maintaining robustness and reproducibility. The platform is intended for experiments on plasma flows, but it is flexible and may be adapted to the constraints of other experimental setups. Examples of targets used in experimental campaigns are shown, including a design for insertion in a high magnetic field coil. Experimental results are included, demonstrating the performance of the targets.


Evaluation of Changes in Nasopharyngeal Volume and Upper First Molar Buccal Cortex Following Surgically Assited Maxillary Expansion Using Bone- borne versus tooth- born appliance , Evaluation of Changes in Nasopharyngeal Volume and Upper First Molar Buccal Cortex Following Surgica... , بانک اطلاعاتی جامع اطلاع رسانی پایان نامه های کشور


This paper is an advance of a broader research, and it focuses on evaluating the correlation between the objectives of Professional Practices II of the Degree in Librarianship and Archivology of the University of Zulia and the output profile, declared in the last two Curricular designs (1995-2011 and 2012 to present). The content analysis of the objectives of the PPII and of the mentioned profile, using Abela's proposal (2000) was used. Most of the objectives point at technical management of documents, avoiding critical thinking, use of ICT, ethics and teamwork. It is recommended to adjust the programs that guide the PPII considering as the main criterion the characteristics of the professional that is aimed to form; and to establish mechanisms for monitoring them, in order to make the necessary corrections.


Weather records preserved by staff and students at Williams College reveal cool spells in New England after volcanic blasts in Indonesia and South Asia.


The compost barn system was designed to be a sustainable alternative housing system for dairy cows. In order to help producers in the region to choose the best type of facility from the point of view of the milk production of the animals, this study compared the productivity of cows confined in an open composting barn with natural ventilation and in a closed composting barn with negative pressure ventilation and evaporative cooling panels. The temperature and relative humidity of the air were monitored, as well as the milk production of the animals housed in the facilities, and THI (Temperature and Humidity Index) were calculated. During the trials, the maximum daily temperatures of the air reached values around 27 °C and the THI remained within the normal range of up to 70. The average productivity remained in the general pattern described in the literature from 23 to 44 kg of milk cowday, with lower rates obtained in the closed house. As the variation of the index used to describe the internal environment was not significant, it can be inferred that climatic elements as temperature and air humidity, under the conditions analyzed were not the main factors influencing the productivity rates of dairy cattle. In conclusion, under the analysed conditions the use of a closed barn with negative pressure ventilation is hardly justified as a plant that favoured the productivity of the confined cows.


I1. THE EMERGING INTERNATIONAL LAW OF PARTICIPATORY RIGHTS ................. 544 A. Participatory Rights Before 1948: The Reign of the State Sovereignty Approach ..... 544 B. The Nature and Scope of Post-War Treaty-Based Participatory Rights ........... 552 1. The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights ................ 553 a. Non-Discrimination .................................... 553 b. The Right to Take Part in Public Affairs........................ 555 c. Requirements Concerning Elections ........................... 555 2. The First Protocol to the European Convention on Human Rights ........... 560 a. Rights Concerning Elections ................................ 561 b. Non-Discrimination .................................... 563 3. The American Convention on Hwnan Rights ........................ 565 4. Other International Instruments Guaranteeing Participatory Rights .......... 568 a. The African Charter on Hwnan and Peoples' Rights ................ 568 b. Council on Security and Co-operation in Europe Accords ............. 568 5. Summary of Treaty-Based Norms ................................ 570


Background: distinctive discursive characteristics related to the experience of an eating disorder (ED) in anorectic and bulimic patients have been observed. Material and methods: a descriptive-analytical-qualitative design based on the Grounded Theory model was used. The sample was intentional, and 15 patients were included, 7 anorectics and 8 bulimics, according DSM-IV-TR diagnostic criteria. Data were collected by a depth interview pattern and analysed by an open codification. Results: differences in perception of the following categories in anorectic versus bulimic patients were detected: sickness notion (diagnostic reception), meanings associated to foods (traumatic versus pleasant experience), body conception (thinness beauty body ideal and dissociated body from the self) and self image (body dissatisfaction related to alexithymia, lack of assertiveness, perfectionism and impulsivity). Conclusion: although ED patients often transit from one diagnostic to another, in their speeches exist some differences related to core ED parameters.


Introduction:
 Initial reports suggest that patients may delay seeking medical attention during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Our aim was to determine if the COVID-19 outbreak is associated with a higher incidence of late presentations for patients with STEMI, greater need for mechanical circulatory support and PCI.

 Methods:
 We retrospectively evaluated consecutive patients that presented to a single, academic medical center with acute chest pain and ST-segment elevation on ECG from March 15 through June 17 in years 2019 and 2020. All patients were referred for emergent coronary angiography and the final cohort consisted of 32 patients. Medical records were reviewed to determine time between symptom onset and hospital arrival, need for PCI and/or mechanical circulatory support, total fluoroscopy time and volume of contrast administration during catheterization.

 Results:
 There was no significant difference in age, gender, cardiac risk factors or history of CAD between the cohorts that presented in 2019 compared with 2020 (Table 1). The mean time from symptom onset to arrival in the ED was 6.5 ± 8 and 9.2 ± 17 hours in 2019 and 2020 (p=0.55), respectively. PCI was performed during the index catheterization in 5 (50%) and 21 (95%) patients in 2019 and 2020 (p=0.01), respectively. Mean volume of contrast media used per case was 142 ± 65 ml in 2019 and 237 ± 104 ml in 2020 (p=0.017). There was a trend towards greater need for mechanical circulatory support and total fluoroscopy time during cases in 2020 (Table 1).

 Conclusions:
 In patients with suspected STEMI during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a trend towards longer duration between symptom onset and arrival to the ED. More patients presenting with ST-segment elevation required PCI and there was a trend towards greater utilization of mechanical circulatory support. These findings may reflect a decline in access to outpatient services and/or delays in patients seeking care for acute chest pain.


On the basis of making a thorough investigation and study of the pollution source and pollution pathway of Yujiagou area, this paper made the ground water quality analysis and the experiment of gangue抯 leaching and soaking out, by a synthetical study we drew conclusion that the salts in the leaching water of waste dump is the primary pollution source for groundwater of Yujiagou area, and assessed the degree of contamination of the groundwater in investigated area.


Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) is the principal auxin in plants. Ring-substituted analogues with distinctive spectroscopic properties could be useful probes for studying its interaction with proteins involved in the hormonal response. Here we explore the absorbance and fluorescence spectra of 28 such derivatives which all show auxin activity. They are characterized by a group of 2-3 absorbance maxima at 260-310 nm and a maximum of about four times their intensity at 215-230 nm. 4- and 7-fluoro-IAA show blue shifts (maximally 10 nm), most other derivatives red shifts (maximally 15 nm for dichloro-IAAs). All IAA analogues examined, with the exception of chloro-, bromo-, and 4- or 7-fluoro-derivatives, fluoresce at 345-370 nm when excited at 275-280 nm. The emission sprectra of hydroxy-, methoxy- and benzyloxy-derivatives are blue shifted with respect to unsubstituted IAA. Alkyl substituents slightly shift the emission maximum to higher wavelengths if inserted at position 2, but to shorter wavelenghts if located at positions 4 and 7. Quantum yields for ring-substituted IAAs in aqueous buffer, pH 5-7, are generally somewhat lower than for the parent compound (0.3), except for 6-fluoro-IAA (0.5).


Glioblastoma (GBM) is characterized by extensive microvascular hyperproliferation. In addition to supplying blood to the tumor, GBM vessels also provide trophic support to glioma cells and serve as conduits for migration into the surrounding brain promoting recurrence. Here, we enriched CD31-expressing glioma vascular cells (GVC) and A2B5-expressing glioma tumor cells (GTC) from primary GBM and utilized RNA sequencing to create a comprehensive interaction map of the secreted and extracellular factors elaborated by GVC that can interact with receptors and membrane molecules on GTC. To validate our findings, we utilized functional assays, including a novel hydrogel-based migration assay and in vivo mouse models to demonstrate that one identified factor, the little-studied integrin binding sialoprotein (IBSP) enhances tumor growth and promotes the migration of GTC along the vasculature. This perivascular niche interactome will serve a resource to the research community in defining the potential functions of the GBM vasculature.


In this article, we investigate the use of micro or \emph {quantum mechanical} black holes as a light source to replace the third generation synchrotron and free electron laser as a tool to study the structural and magnetic properties of matter. We perform a calculation of average brilliance from a theoretical optical arrangement and compare the result to other light sources. We find that a micro black hole light source radiating an average wavelength of $\sim10.00\AA$ requires $0.67Js^{-1}$ to be stabilized at the same mass (and therefore average wavelength). The resulting micro black hole light source is on average $10^{10}$ times more brilliant than even a free electron laser.


The FORTRAN-based computer package DCFPAK (Dose Coefficient File Package) has been developed to provide electronic access to the dose coefficient data files summarized in Federal Guidance Reports 11 and 12. DCFPAK also provides access to standard information regarding decay chains and assembles dose coefficients for all dosimetrically significant radioactive progeny of a specified radionuclide. DCFPAK was designed for application on a PC but, with minor modifications, may be implemented on a UNIX workstation.


Endopthalmitis is a potentially sight-threatening complication following intraocular surgery, penetrating ocular trauma, bacterial keratitis and endogenous infection. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment help to salvage the eye and vision. Ultrasound plays a major role in assisting the diagnosis. Thus, ultrasound features especially on the common causative organisms is very helpful in making early diagnosis. The definitive microbiology diagnosis usually takes few days to weeks. Our aim in this study is to identify the ultrasonographic features of endophthalmitis induced by different types of microorganisms in rabbits and to correlate it with the clinical presentation and pathology findings. Endophthalmitis was induced by intravitreal inoculation of microorganism into the right eye of 18 New Zealand white rabbits. Group A comprised of 6 rabbits was inoculated with Candida albicans, Group comprised of another 6 rabbits innocultaed with Staphylococcus epidermidis and another 6 was inoculated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Group C). Clinical examination and ultrasonographic findings was performed as baseline prior to inoculation. Serial untrasonographic and clinical examination was conducted during 10 days observation period. Enucleation was done on the tenth day and vitreous was sent for culture as well as the enucleated eyes were sent for histopathological evaluation.


Infrared evidence suggests that CO loss follows Cd line (2288 A) photolysis of HMn(CO)5 in argon at 15°K and that the photolysis can be reversed by use of λ > 2850 A.


In the 1st report, it was shown that it was possible to apply an elastic indentation theory to the evaluation of surface damage of ceramics due to sphere impact, although this was limited to low velocities in which elastic damage dominated. In this research, further investigation on the applicability of the theory to the residual strength evaluation was conducted. In the case that elastic damage or cone crack was related in the final fracture, the residual strength of ceramic specimens damaged by sphere impact was estimated using the elastic indentation theory and conventional fracture mechanics. Good agreement between estimated curves and test results were obtained.


Background: The practice of orthognathic surgery traditionally involved time-intensive presurgical planning that was associated with decreased compensation relative to other procedures within the specialty. This limited reimbursement and subsequent reduction in the incidence of these procedures has been described in the literature. The introduction of VSP has streamlined the presurgical planning process. The purpose of this study is to provide a reevaluation of the relative value units (RVUs) per unit time for orthognathic surgery and to make a comparison to other commonly performed plastic surgery procedures in the context of recent developments in VSP. Methods: RVU data for both orthognathic and common plastic surgery procedures were collected using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes. A range of operative times was then used to calculate work RVUs per hour of both orthognathic surgery and other procedures commonly performed by plastic surgeons including: unilateral deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction, bilateral breast tissue expander placement, bilateral breast reduction, bilateral breast reconstruction using latissimus dorsi muscle flaps, and panniculectomy. Results: Hourly RVUs for orthognathic procedures compare favorably to hourly RVUs for other commonly performed plastic surgery procedures when examined within a range of expected average operative times. Conclusions: Accounting for the reduced time commitment to preoperative planning that VSP achieves, the authors demonstrate a significant RVU/hour increase in orthognathic procedures than that described in the literature published prior to the implementation of VSP. Orthognathic surgery remains competitive for maxillofacial surgeons when compared to other procedures in plastic surgery when RVUs/hour is the metric of comparison.


Each regularity observed in peroxide-induced conversions in polyolefins was treated comprehensively. The method used for the study of the processes occurring and the principles of the kinetic analyses used in the identification of the mechanism of these reactions were described. From the observations of the conversions in polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyisobutylene, the chemism scheme of the reaction investigated was derived, and its elementary stages from the decomposition of the peroxide over the transfer up to the reactions terminating the radical processes were interpreted. The conversions as such in the macromolecule chains were evaluated both from the standpoint of the structure of the active group of polymer radicals and on the basis of the steric assumptions for this interaction. The possibilities of an adjustable regulation of the destruction process were mentioned. (tr-auth)


The project centers on the fundamentals of hydrogen adsorption in porous adsorbents under the influence of externally applied electric fields. Electricfield enhancement of binding (capacitive storage) can integrate well with electric drive systems and the insights gained from these studies will be applied toward the design and synthesis of storage materials more likely meet DOE hydrogen storage targets. Outcomes of this work are expected to include:


Number is origin of things,as everything in the world is created and expressed by numbers.I Ching:the Book of Changes,a masterpiece of Chinese traditional culture fundamental for all books and thoughts,which illustrates numbers as its core content,representing deep methodology and far reaching prospective towards universe,has a great impact on medical sciences.Digital medicine,as a new school of science crossing over information technology,medical sciences and many others,is thriving so as to make clinical practice more individualized,accurate,minimally invasive and remote.Linking the Book of Changes with digital sciences in combination therefore will enrich medical thoughts,improve medical values,and facilitate team buildup.


The aim of this study is to evaluate the cardiovascular impact of cocaine in a population of patients enrolled in the Swiss nationwide AMIS Plus registry with a focus on in-hospital outcomes.

 We retrospectively analysed data of patients enrolled in the Swiss AMIS Plus registry from 2007 to 2018. Baseline and in-hospital data of patients with ACS and cocaine use were compared with the remaining AMIS population as well as to a sex and aged matched ACS patients (1:5 ratio, 540 patients) without history of cocaine consumption. Primary endpoints were death and major adverse cardiac and cardiovascular events (MACCE).

 A total of 20'981 patients had been included in the AMIS Plus registry for ACS in the study period, of them 110 (0.5%) were cocaine user.
 As compared to the remaining AMIS population, cocaine abusers were significantly younger (46.4±10.8 vs 66.4±13.2 years; p<0.001), presented more frequently with out of hospital cardiac arrest (11.8% vs 4.7%, p<0.001) and STEMI (68,2% vs 54.7%, p=0.007). Apart from active smoke and family history, had a lower burden of CV risk factors. In hospital mortality (3.6% vs 4.4%; p=1) and MACCE (5.4% vs 5.5%; p=0.83) were comparable.
 When compared to the age matched ACS population without history of cocaine consumption, cocaine abusers were more frequently smokers (87.6% vs 63.6%, p<0.001) but less frequently obese (10.4% vs 25.6%, p=0,001). Clinical presentation was comparable among the two groups, nonetheless cocaine abuse was associated with a higher incidence of death (3.7% vs 0.7%, p<0.05) and MACCE (5.6% vs 1.3%, p<0.05).

 This analysis presents the largest series of cocaine associated ACS available in literature. Cocaine abuse increases by 5 the risk of mortality and by 4 the risk of MACCE as compared to an age matched ACS population. No differences where observed in outcomes when compared to a 20 years older population.


RF sputter deposition of 500 nm thick zirconium films was carried on simultaneously with implantation of singly ionized molecular nitrogen. Samples were prepared at room temperature (23°C) with a nitrogen to zirconium arrival ratio varying from 2.7x10 -2 to 4.4x10 -1 and with the ion energy varying from 100 to 300 keV. Stoichiometry of the films and ion concentration profiles were determined by Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry. Results from a theoretical model for the ion concentration profiles were compared to profiles derived from experiments. Grazing Angle X-Ray Diffraction was used to correlate nitride phase formation to processing parameters. Knoop microhardnesses of films deposited on 304 stainless steel substrates were determined. The relative microhardness of the samples were studied as a function of parameters such as film stoichiometry and ion implantation energy.