In this paper we will present a comparison of DC and electrical noise characteristics of high‐temperature superconductor thin‐films with differing preferred axes of orientation. Four thin‐film samples were thoroughly studied, two of c‐axis and two of a‐axis orientation. All films were YBaCuO superconducting material on strontium titanate (SrTiO3) substrates. The R‐T, I‐V, and electrical noise properties were measured for each of the films and comparisons were made between the films. The experimental data was compared with current hypotheses on conduction and crystal structure. Our preliminary results show that from the DC and electrical noise measurements that the c‐axis films are much better than a‐axis films in applications where sensitivity and sharp transition is an important factor.


• Routinely testing vitamin D levels in asymptomatic individuals is not recommended, based on a lack of evidence for benefit • Shared decision making and conversations with patients can help explore the risks and benefits of unnecessary testing • Physician education, audit, feedback of physicians' ordering practices, and system-wide changes in ordering and remuneration are effective strategies to reduce unnecessary vitamin D testing


Suppose Γ is a totally ordered abelian group and σ is a cocycle on Γ. In this dissertation we discuss a theory of twisted Toeplitz algebras T (Γ, σ) of Γ. We generalise previous works on the untwisted version T (Γ) by employing the twisting concept of a cocycle σ. Theory of the twisted Toeplitz algebras is not new, but previous work just covers subgroups of real numbers. In line with previous work on T (Γ, σ), this algebra is universal for isometric σ-representation of Γ. Important results on the untwisted version have their generalisation in our twisted version. The method of crossed product by semigroups of endomorphisms of previous works are applicable in these generalisations, so we also have developed theory of twisted crossed products by semigroups of endomorphisms. Another focus of our dissertation is the ideal structure of the untwisted Toeplitz algebras T (Γ). This work is an extension of previous work which proved that the primitive ideal space is parametrised by disjoint union X of the duals of order ideals in Γ. It was assumed that the chain of order ideals in Γ contains a copy of {−∞} ∪ Z ∪ {∞}. The most important result in the previous work is, that X can be topologised so that this topology is precisely the hull-kernel topology (the standard topology for the primitive ideal space). We give the necessary and sufficient condition for the previous result; the topology in X is the hull-kernel topology if and only if the chain of order ideals is well ordered.


The relationship between the robustness of HRV derived by linear and nonlinear methods to the required minimum data lengths has yet to be well understood. The normal electrocardiography (ECG) data of 14 healthy volunteers were applied to 34 HRV measures using various data lengths, and compared with the most prolonged (2000 R peaks or 750 s) by using the Mann–Whitney U test, to determine the 0.05 level of significance. We found that SDNN, RMSSD, pNN50, normalized LF, the ratio of LF and HF, and SD1 of the Poincaré plot could be adequately computed by small data size (60–100 R peaks). In addition, parameters of RQA did not show any significant differences among 60 and 750 s. However, longer data length (1000 R peaks) is recommended to calculate most other measures. The DFA and Lyapunov exponent might require an even longer data length to show robust results. Conclusions: Our work suggests the optimal minimum data sizes for different HRV measures which can potentially improve the efficiency and save the time and effort for both patients and medical care providers.


This review summarizes some key literature published in 2013 that pertains to the detection and occurrence of pathogens and indicators of waterborne pathogens. Particular emphasis was placed on emerging detection methods that when fully developed may have an impact on the application of molecular tools to characterize the microbial quality of water. As such, this review is organized into the following topics: i) nucleic acids‐based detection methods, ii) sequencing‐based detection methods, iii) culturing combined to molecular methods, and iv) sample processing.


Every year approximately 30 000 individuals suffer from stroke in Sweden. And the annual risk of stroke is 5-15% (1). In the United States more than 700 000 people suffer a stroke each year, and approximately two thirds of these survive and require rehabilitation (2). Stroke rehabilitation for milder cases is preferably conducted as home-based rehabilitation. Rehabilitation aims at helping survivors become as independent as possible and to attain the best quality of life and to facilitate return to work. In this issue of Advances in Physiotherapy, four articles deals with different aspects on stroke rehabilitation. A randomized controlled trial by Holmgren and coworkers, deals with a 5-week high intensity functional exercise (HIFE) program, implemented to real-life situations together with education on risk of falling and aspects of security. Stroke patients over 55 years of age, were randomized 3-6 months after fi rst or recurrent stroke to an intervention group or a control group. Assessments were made at baseline, postintervention, 3and 6-months follow-up. The authors suggest that the HIFE program, implemented in real life situations together with educational discussions, may improve falls effi cacy in stroke subjects with risk of falls. The authors also evaluated the benefi t of the HIFE program on health-related quality of life and on depression. The short form SF-36 and the Geriatric Depression Scale-15 were used. The authors conclude that exercise should also be complemented with discussion and education about hidden dysfunctions and not solely focused on falls and physical function, in order to obtain the best health related quality of life. Contraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) developed by Taub and Wolf (3), is a treatment modality often used in rehabilitation of stroke patients. The treatment targets recovery of the upper limb, by limiting the use of the unaffected limb. Marklund and co-workers conducted a study where they did not focus on the upper limb, but on the lower limb CIMT. They investigated through qualitative interviews patients ' experiences of participating in such a program. The patients reported that the exercise gave them insight into their condition;


Background: Iodine deficiency one of the most prevalent micronutrient deficiencies globally is the main cause of potentially preventable mental retardation in childhood as well as a spectrum of morbidities referred to as iodine deficiency disorders. Iodization of salt is recommended to prevent and treat many of these disorders. Objective: To assess the effects and safety of consumption of iodized salt in the prevention of iodine deficiency disorders. Data sources: The following databases were searched: China National Knowledge Infrastructure the Cochrane Library EMBASE MEDLINE VIP (the register of Chinese trials developed by the Chinese Cochrane Centre) The Virtual Health Library of the Pan-American Health Organization WANFANG the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Platform search portal and the WHO Global Health Library regional databases. Relevant agencies were contacted and the reference lists were reviewed. Study appraisal and synthesis methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) non-RCTs quasiexperimental cohort and multiple cross-sectional studies were included. All studies compared a group of individuals with exposure to iodized salt to a group without exposure to iodized salt. Two or more reviewers independently screened potential studies extracted study characteristics and outcomes and when possible conducted meta-analyses to estimate the effect of iodized salt relative to non-iodized salt. Results are presented as mean differences (MDs) risk ratios (RRs) prevalence ratios (PRs) or odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Two RCTs 6 non-RCTs 20 quasi-experimental studies 16 cohort studies 42 multiple crosssectional studies and 3 studies with mixed designs were included. The numbers of participants ranged from 30 in a cohort study to over 5 000 000 in a multiple cross-sectional registry study. Iodized salt significantly reduced the risk of goitre (non-RCTs RR = 0.59 [95% CI = 0.36 to 0.95]; cohort RR = 0.30 [95% CI = 0.23 to 0.41]; multiple cross-sectional PR = 0.18 [95% CI = 0.14 to 0.22]) cretinism (multiple cross-sectional OR = 0.13 [95% CI = 0.08 to 0.20]) low intelligence (quasiexperimental RR = 0.28 [95% CI = 0.21 to 0.36]; multiple cross-sectional PR = 0.24 [95% CI = 0.07 to 0.82]) and low urinary iodine excretion (multiple cross-sectional PR = 0.45 [95% CI = 0.34 to 0.59]). Iodized salt significantly increased intelligence quotient (quasi-experimental MD = 8·18 [95% CI = 6·71 to 9·65]; multiple cross-sectional MD = 10.45 [95% CI = 4·79 to 16·11]) and urinary iodine excretion (cohort MD = 59.22 [95% CI = 50.40 to 68.04]; multiple cross-sectional MD = 72·35 [95% CI = 44·54 to 100.17]). The results regarding the potential adverse effect of hypothyroidism showed no relationship (cohort OR = 1.14 [95% CI = 0.84 to 1.53]; multiple cross-sectional OR = 1.13 [95% CI = 0.94 to 1.36]) and the results for hyperthyroidism were inconsistent and dependent on study design (cohort OR = 1.36 [95% CI = 1.12 to 1.66]; multiple cross-sectional OR = 0.96 [95% CI = 0.92 to 1.00]). The quality of evidence varied from very low to moderate depending on outcome and study design. Conclusions: This review showed that iodized salt has a large effect on reducing the risk of goitre cretinism low cognitive function and iodine deficiency. Robust monitoring of salt iodization programmes is important to ensure safe and effective levels of iodine consumption especially as countries implement programmes to reduce population salt intake.


7 Background: Cancer patients have increased risk for severe outcomes related to SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19), due to their increased vulnerability to infection, older age, and comorbidities in comparison to the general population. While multiple studies have been completed examining outcomes of COVID-19 infection in cancer patients overall, there has been limited investigation into the outcomes of COVID-19 infection in patients with genitourinary (GU) cancers. Methods: We completed a single institution retrospective study to examine the outcomes of adults with GU cancers and COVID-19 infection from March 10, 2020 to June 15, 2022. Baseline data included age, sex, BMI, type of malignancy, cancer status (stable or progressive disease, in remission), current and previous anticancer therapy received, and comorbidities. Results: Eighty-four patients with a GU cancer diagnosis and laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection were identified. Seventy-nine (94%) were male and the median age was 64 years (range 24-91). Forty-four (52%) were non-Hispanic white, 28 (33%) were Hispanic, and 11 (13%) were African-American. Prostate cancer was the most common (n = 45), followed by renal cell carcinoma (n = 20), testicular (n = 9), bladder (n = 6), and penile cancer (n = 3). Eight patients had ≥2 episodes of COVID-19 infection. Sixty-three percent of patients were unvaccinated at the time of infection, while 37% of patients had breakthrough infection. Hospitalization was required for 39.3% (n = 33), with 4.8% (n = 4) requiring ICU admission. Of the patients requiring hospitalization, 26.2% (n = 22) died. Hospitalization was associated with having ≥2 comorbidities (OR 18.6 [95% CI, 3.1-111.8], p<0.01) and receiving active cancer treatment (OR 12.4 [95% CI, 1.92-79.7], p< 0.01). Mortality was associated with advanced age (OR 21.7 [95% CI, 1.40-341.7], p=0.03) and ≥2 comorbidities (OR 19.2 [95% CI, 3.02-122.5], p=0.02). Vaccination was negatively associated with both hospitalization (OR 0.04 [95% CI, 0.02-0.91], p=0.04) and mortality (OR 0.14 [95% CI, 0.02-0.84], p=0.03). Conclusions: Among patients with GU cancer, advanced age and comorbidities are associated with adverse outcomes of COVID-19 infection; vaccination is protective. With the emergence of variants and waning immunity of vaccines, our findings highlight the importance of development and implementation of enhanced mitigation strategies in cancer patients, especially those undergoing active cancer treatment.


Due to low storage cost and fast query speed, deep hashing methods are widely used in cross-modal retrieval. However, the "heterogeneous gap" between multi-modal data is still a challenge. Moreover, a major difficulty in deep hashing lies in the discrete constraints imposed on the network output. Existing solutions usually use relaxation techniques, but this inevitably produces quantization error, leading to sub-optimal hash code. In this paper, we propose Adversarial Guided Gradient Estimation Hashing (AGEH). Firstly, in order to bridge the heterogeneous gap between different modal data, a cross-modal adversarial feature learning network is constructed to learn cross-modal semantic associations. Secondly, to solve the discrete optimization problem of hash code, we propose a hashing optimization strategy based on gradient estimation for sign function, which strictly uses sign function to maintain discrete constraints in forward propagation, while in back propagation, the gradient is directly transmitted to the previous layer and thus avoid quantization error. Extensive experiments conducted on two cross-modal benchmark datasets show that our proposed AGEH outperforms several state-of-the-art methods.


Objective: Endometrial cancer is the most common malignant tumor of the female genital tract. Its incidence has increased in recent years, making up 13% of female genital cancers. Nevertheless, the search for agents effective in the treatment of either advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer has been disappointing. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) were recently found to be well-tolerated in patients with hematologic and solid malignancies. HDACIs have been shown to inhibit cancer cell proliferation, stimulate apoptosis, and induce cell cycle arrest. Our purpose was to investigate the antiproliferative effects of the HDACIs (sodium butyrate and HDAC-I1) against endometrial cancer cell line (Hec 1A) and normal endometrial cell line (T-HESCs). Methods: MTS reduction assay was carried out to determine the cell viability. Cell cycle analysis and DNA fragmentation assay was done by fluorescent activated cell sorter analysis. The expression of cell cycle-regulatory and apoptosis-related proteins were evaluated by Western blot. Caspase 3 and 7 activity were measured by immuno-flouorescent staining.Results: Each sodium butyrate and HDAC-I1 induced growth inhibition in a dose and time dependent manner in endometrial cancer cells but did not induce growth inhibition in normal endometrial cells. Treatment with each drugs in endometrial cancer cells increased the percentage of cells in subG1 phase. The expression of p53, p21, p27, FAS, and FAS legand were increased and it was associated with increased p21 and p27 expression in a p53-dependent manner. Activation of caspase-3, 7, 8, 9 and down-regulation of Bcl-2, up-regulation of Bax, with concomitant increase in PARP cleavage, were observed. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that sodium butyrate induced growth inhibition and apoptosis in human endometrial cancer cells rising their possibility applicable against human endometrial cancers.


ABSTRACT The relationship between technology and language endangerment has experienced a shift in attitude, whereby previously perceived as a threat to the vitality of endangered and minority languages, new technology and social media are now viewed as rich and important tools in the endeavor or language maintenance and revitalization. This paper examines several examples of how new and social media can play a role in language maintenance and revitalization and discusses practical issues relating to literacy development. Overall, it is shown that new technology and social media are beneficial for language preservation rather than causing language death.


Abstract: In practically all European countries, co-operative credit societies have evolved towards a system which is comparable to other financial groups. This paper explores the recent evolution of Spanish credit co-operatives and especially rural savings banks. The creation of "Group Caja Rural" in 1989, has meant the greatest commitment to the integration of Spanish credit co-operatives in the face of the challenges of economic globalisation and the great changes in the national and international financial system. The running of this Group is through a vertebrate structure, in co-ordination and representation aspects as well as in operative functions. Keywords : Co-operative bank, credit system, financial groups, rural savings banks, Spain JEL : G 21, Q 13, Q 14 1. Introduction Credit co-operatives are financial entities which have traditionally dealt with financing an important group of entities within the social economy. They have also been the motor for the co-operative sector in general and particularly for the agrarian sector. Such is the situation that occasionally the role played by credit co-operatives within their area of influence has exceeded the financial framework. According to Carrasco and Alvarez (2004), the co-operative character endows to credit co-operatives of a wider role in regional development than the rest of credit institutions. The co-operative credit system is well established in Europe. We cannot forget that the roots of this system are to be found there, where it was first developed and at presents it represents a vital and dynamic reality. As a consequence of the liberalisation phenomenon experienced within the European Union, there is high competitivity in the banking sector. In order to confront this competitivity, credit co-operatives have opted for integration strategies and interco-operation between entities in order to operate in the financial market, without losing the competitive advantage of personalisation, the key to their functioning, and combining universal banking and specialised banking principles. A co-operative banking Group is an organised whole, interrelated, co-ordinated and formed by credit co-operative partnerships and other legal entities, which act under common and mutual principles. They adjust their behaviour to the policy of the banking group, which is based on the establishment of common guidelines and on respect for independence of decision by member entities of the group. (Palomo, 1995). The co-operative bank, as a financial intermediary, competes in market conditions with any class of bank. The companies which constitute it base their activity on co-operative principles, democratic management and orientate their activity towards customers and partners. Banking activity requires a certain dimension which makes commercialisation of a group of products and services viable, which in turn require operative and advanced technical means in accordance with the level of customer demand.


Recent few years, shopping through the Cross-border E-commerce platforms
has been so prevalent that they begin to play an important role in foreign
trade. This paper would take the E-commerce company named ABL1 as our
case, and analyse its macro-environment, the current situation and the development
bottleneck. Based upon the research, we conclude that the environmental
factor promoted the development of Cross-border E-commerce.
However, problems such as homogeneous operation pattern between platforms
and insufficient innovation exists. To survive from the severe competition,
ABL, the newly established company, has got to make the new strategic
planning and start the brand marketing.


For the fermionic Hubbard model at strong coupling, we demonstrate that directional transport of localized doublons (repulsively bound pairs of two particles occupying the same site of the crystal lattice) can be achieved by applying an unbiased ac field of time-asymmetric (sawtooth-like) shape. The mechanism involves a transition to intermediate states of virtually zero double occupation which are reached by splitting the doublon by fields of the order of the Hubbard interaction. The process is discussed on the basis of numerically exact calculations for small clusters, and we apply it to more complex states to manipulate the charge order pattern of one-dimensional systems.


What is the difference between the Broadacre City model and popular drone views simulations used to promote future sustainable cities? Between an interior space designed by Tessenow and a look through 3D glasses? Perhaps not so much, all they tell the same story: the wonderland. The essay aims to investigate the ideo-logical contribution of story-telling to architectural and territorial design projects, rather than its techno-logical. If it is true that media evolve and adapt their narrative, but the story they use to tell is always the same of the wonderland, questions arise from a different point of view. Which design project deserves a story with a narrative contribution? Only the project in which all the contradictions are positively solved as in the wonderland, or is there room for counter-stories too?


Over the past decade, the technological evolution of mobile networks has contributed to the global success and democratization of internet connectivity, notably relying on 4G and 5G deployments. Digital services have grown exponentially, resulting in high traffic volumes and continuous requirements to expand the network footprint. The problem is that, despite the investment in network expansion and upgrade, the revenues of the major Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) have presented anaemic growth, whilst other factor costs have risen, notably the energy prices. This challenging outlook raises concerns over the sector's long-term sustainability and calls MNOs to adopt smart operative strategies in network management, aiming at ensuring sustainable energy consumption levels. This new paradigm essentially leverages artificial intelligence capabilities to evolve the current reactive approach of Network Operations Centres (NOCs) towards proactive and preventive models relying on network data. In particular, energy consumption data can be used to detect abnormal network behaviours, either caused by unintentional disruptions or by a cyber/physical attack. This paper contributes with a novel multi-domain NOC that combines performance, efficiency and security as an integral part of network optimization. Additionally, as a concrete use case example using live data from a 4G mobile network, a new methodology is proposed to optimize the trade-off between spectral and energy efficiency. The preliminary results show that up to 13% of improvement in energy consumption could be achieved using the proposed methodology to detect the worse performing sites and their root cause factors.


The principle of an industrially used emission reduction technique is employed in automotive diesel exhaust to reduce the diesel particulate emission. As the Emission regulation are becoming more stringent legislations have been formulated, due to the hazardous increase in the air quality index in major cities. Initially electrostatic precipitation principle and working was investigated. The High voltage requirement in an Electrostatic precipitator is obtained by designing an appropriate circuit in MATLAB -SIMULINK. Mechanical structural design of the new model after treatment device for the specific diesel exhaust was done. Fluid flow analysis of the ESP model was carried out using ANSYS CFX for optimized fluid with a reduced back pressure. Design reconsideration was done in accordance with fluid flow analysis. Accordingly, a new design is developed by considering diesel particulate filter and catalytic converter design to ESP model.


Purpose

With the steady overall development of the continent, the African business landscape over the last decade has witnessed increased growth through numerous avenues. Growth has been through the emergence of formalised small and medium enterprises, the growth of business and transition from one scale to another as well as inward foreign direct investment. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how this business growth can be sustained, particularly in the area of talent management, within the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents the findings of a narrative inquiry conducted in 2016 on an expert panel of talent managers in businesses based in South Africa.

Findings

The focus of the inquiry was the challenges in talent currently faced by South African businesses and what possible solutions, that address the question of sustainable development, may lie in talent management practices. The study finds that there may be scope for the augmentation of current practice in psychometric testing which may address a plethora of problems currently defining the talent context in African business.

Originality/value

The growth of African businesses has presented interesting challenges in managing the African business particularly in the area of human resources and talent management. A persistent notion is the question of sustaining this growth on the continent. As enterprise grows, the need for talent is ever more pressing. This paper seeks to present pathways to sustainability in this regards.


The authors delineate some considerations in achieving RSL (range sidelobe) suppression in wideband phased arrays. Attention is given to wideband radar characteristics suppression of spurious signals, and sources of wideband RSLs. It is suggested that the parallelism associated with the transmitter and antenna paths should mitigate associated uncorrelated time-varying error modulation. The exciter can be a major RSL contributor unless spurious signal suppression with the SSBM (single sideband modulator) is emphasized in design and calibration procedures.<<ETX>>


In this study, we present a method for synthesizing novel views from a single 360-degree RGB-D image based on the neural radiance field (NeRF) . Prior studies relied on the neighborhood interpolation capability of multi-layer perceptrons to complete missing regions caused by occlusion and zooming, which leads to artifacts. In the method proposed in this study, the input image is reprojected to 360-degree RGB images at other camera positions, the missing regions of the reprojected images are completed by a 2D image generative model, and the completed images are utilized to train the NeRF. Because multiple completed images contain inconsistencies in 3D, we introduce a method to learn the NeRF model using a subset of completed images that cover the target scene with less overlap of completed regions. The selection of such a subset of images can be attributed to the maximum weight independent set problem, which is solved through simulated annealing. Experiments demonstrated that the proposed method can synthesize plausible novel views while preserving the features of the scene for both artificial and real-world data.


Based on the Freescale ARM11 microprossesor IMX35,one multi-media product is developed.This product incorprates bluetooth,USB,GPS,CODEC and other features.It communicates with other parts such as the amplifiers,DVD players using the MOST(media oriented system transport)standard bus.


Is articulated arms disclosed camera mounting cost for mounting the imaging device. Including the disclosed camera mounting stand base, at least one arm and the head, and which is secured movably to each other generally it can be replaced with different components and members. During placement and positioning of the imaging device equipped with the disclosed camera stand allows for greater flexibility and creativity.


An 8-year-old boy with large abdominal lump causing upper abdominal fullness is presented. Clinically it mimicked a trichobezoar because of the restricted side-to-side mobility of the lump. The lump, however, had calcification and radiological features of fetus-in-fetu (FIF). At laparotomy, a fetiform mass covered with fatty tissue was delivered out of a retroperitoneally located sac (in the bed of stomach). The fetiform mass had an identifiable upper limb bearing digits, one of them also bearing nail. Though histopathological examination did not reveal the presence of vertebral bodies, an advanced differentiation of the bony ends, bearing cartilage qualified the mass as FIF. There was family history of twinning with the elder siblings being dizygotic twins. The origin and diagnostic criteria of FIF are discussed and reference is made to a high likelihood of a twinning as the preceding event in this case.


The coupled themomechanical modeling of the friction stir welding (FSW) process is a challenging process when typical finite element methods are used. In this study we use a the Element Free Galerkin (EFG) method to model the material flow during the FSW process. We use a two‐way adaptive method (rh‐adaptive) during the coupled thermomechanical process to overcome potential numerical problems arising from the extensive mesh distortion and material deformation. We test the simulation strategy to simulate FSW of aluminum. The results show that the new simulation strategy can handle extreme plastic deformation of the metal efficiently. (© 2017 Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)


Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a potentially curative therapy for a wide variety of hematologic malignancies and other life-threatening blood dyscrasias. The application of this therapy has been greatly extended in recent years by virtue of reduced intensity preparative regimens (permitting the transplantation of older patients and patients with significant comorbidity) and the availability of alternative partially human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-matched donors (haploidentical related and cord blood). As a consequence of this practice and with advances in transplant-related supportive care, transplant-related mortality has declined while relapse of the underlying malignancy has become more problematic. Our increasing understanding of the cellular environment after HCT has also illustrated immunobiologic mechanisms of relapse risk, for example, a decreased relapse probability of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) following killer inhibitory-like receptor (KIR) mismatching in the graft versus host direction after haploidentical transplantation (1). Leukemic cells and the immune system are in constant conflict in which each maneuvers to defeat the other. One of the tactics that the leukemic cells discover to evade immune attack is the suppression of immune-recognition molecules. With the availability of sophisticated genomic methodology and assays of in vitro alloreactivity, a series of observations regarding partial or complete loss of HLA haplotypes in malignant cells after HCT have recently been made (Table 1). Uniparental disomy, in which the mismatched HLA haplotype from one parent is lost and replaced by the matched haplotype of the other parent, has been observed in leukemia cells after haploidentical HCT by two groups. This results in a complete HLA match between the mutant leukemic cells and the donor's cells, thereby removing a major immunologic target on the leukemic cells. Vago et al. (2) reported that 5 of the 17 patients with relapsed AML or myelodysplastic syndrome after haploidentical HCT had uniparental disomy of chromosome 6p in their leukemia cells. The lack of recognition by donor and recipient T cells of the mutant leukemia cells (leukemia cells at the time of diagnosis were killed in vitro) suggested an important mechanism for the loss of immunological surveillance following the transplant (through abrogation of a graft vs. leukemia [GVL] effect). Villalobos et al. (3) described uniparental disomy in the leukemia cells of two of three patients who relapsed after haploidentical HCT. Among six patients who relapsed after HLA-matched HCT, no loss of HLA alleles was identified. A role of natural killer cell alloreactivity was suggested by the observation that the patient who relapsed and did not have uniparental disomy had a KIR-mismatched donor (as opposed to the two patients with HLA allele loss who had KIR-matched donors). Loss of HLA genes after matched unrelated donor (MUD) HCT has also been described. Waterhouse et al. (4) showed a significant incidence of genetic aberrations in leukemia cells following MUD or matched related donor HCT for AML, including loss of the whole HLA locus on chromosome 6p in 2 of 21 MUD recipients with relapsed disease. The report by Stolzel et al. in this issue of Transplantation demonstrates that loss of HLA genes may also occur after HLA-matched related donor HCT. This case report describes the partial loss of chromosome 6p in an extramedullary relapse of AML years after the transplant. These results add further evidence to the concept that loss of certain HLA class I genes may contribute to loss of immunologic surveillance (and eventual relapse in this case) even after matched donor HCT. Although it is intriguing to hypothesize that this immunologic surveillance may be more compromised outside of the lymphohematopoietic space, it is unclear from a single case report whether the loss of HLA genes contributed to the extramedullary nature of the relapse. Future studies should focus on defining how often these HLA gene losses occur in both the HLA-matched and -mismatched transplant settings, and what the consequences are of specific genetic losses in reference to inhibition of the GVL effect. Taken together, these recent reports have demonstrated a potentially important mechanism of escape of immune surveillance by tumor cells after HCT. As is often the case, sophisticated molecular discoveries in transplantation have preceded actual therapeutic applications related to these discoveries. Nonetheless, several recommendations regarding the management of relapsed hematologic malignancy after HCT can be made based on these observations. Donor lymphocyte infusions may be less effective after haploidentical HCT when the mismatched haplotype has been lost (assuming that much of the GVL effect results from HLA gene disparity). This is less clear, however, in the HLA-matched donor setting where the GVL mechanisms are due to minor histocompatability differences. It also gives credence to the notion that selection of donors based on KIR matching, especially in the setting of haploidentical HCT for myeloid maligThe author declares no funding or conflicts of interest. Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Address correspondence to: Thomas R. Spitzer, M.D., Massachusetts General Hospital, Zero Emerson Place, Suite 118, Boston, MA 02114. E-mail: email@example.com Received 20 October 2011. Accepted 22 December 2011. Copyright © 2012 by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins ISSN 0041-1337/12/9307-674 DOI: 10.1097/TP.0b013e3182481154


Repetitive closure of the upper-airway characterises obstructive sleep apnea. It disrupts sleep causing excessive daytime drowsiness, and is linked to hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Previous studies simulating the underlying fluid mechanics of two-dimensional channel flow are based upon velocity-driven boundaries with symmetric positioning of the soft-palate. In the first part of the present work the two-dimensional work of Balint (2001) is extended to a pressure-driven model where the stability solutions space mapped for the soft-palate, symmetrically placed within viscous channel flow. As a result of this work the modelling of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) it is proposed that modelling should focus on nasal breathing as the first indicator for the presence of OSA. Numerical simulations reveal the appearance of amplification of soft-palate displacement over several breathing cycles with asymmetric positioning of the soft-plate and for nasal breathing (single channel flow). Such events increase airway hydraulic resistance at the start of inhalation, a vulnerably period of the breathing cycle for collapse of the pharynx. In the second part of the present work three-dimensional studies are conducted for duct flow and flow through an anatomically correct reconstructed geometry, supporting the findings of the two-dimensional work of the first part. Moreover, extending understanding of anatomical interactions, through development of a three-dimensional geometry reconstruction based on an airway at the end of inhalation. Here the geometry is reconstructed from quantitative date linked to the breathing cycle, captured via an in vivo method using an adapted endoscope technique. Simulations reveal flow mechanisms that produce low-pressure regions on the side walls of the pharynx and on the soft-palate within the pharyngeal section of minimum area. Soft-palate displacement and lateral pharynx-wall iii deformations reduce further the pressures in these regions creating forces that would tend to narrow the airway owing to flow curvature. These phenomena suggest a mechanism for airway closure in the lateral direction as observed in an bronchoscope study conducted as part of this thesis.


Objective The effects of astragalus membranaceus injection on testis and epididymis toxicity in Cd-exposed rats and the action mechanism were studied.Methods Fifty adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups:low concentration astragalus membranaceus group(A1), high concentration astragalus membranaceus group(A2), cyclophosphamide group(CP), cadmium chloride group(Cd) and control group(C). Astragalus membranaceus injections 5 g·kg-1·d-1 or 10 g·kg-1·d-1 were given by intraperitoneal injection to the A1,A2,CP and Cd groups.After 7 days,cadmium chloride(0.2 mg Cd/kg body weight)was given by intraperitoneal injection to the A1,A2 and Cd group rats at the same time.The rats were sacrificed and testis coefficient, number of testicular sperm head, daily sperm production,sperm number of epididymis,and percentage of sperm abnormality were observed;testis and epididymis pathology were also studied after the rats were exposed by cadmium chloride on the 22nd day.The activities of total superoxide dismutase(T-SOD) and the levels of malondialdehyde(MDA) in serum and testis of SD rats were determined respectively.Results Testis coefficient,number of testicular sperm head, daily sperm production,and sperm number of epididymis in A2 group[(5.68±1.19),(49±9)×106/g,(10.2±2.3)×106/g,(47.5±22.5)×106/ml] increased significantly compared with those of Cd group[(3.11±0.16),(38±11)×106/g,(5.13±0.32)×106/g,(10.9±2.4)×106ml](P0.05 or P0.01).Percentage of sperm abnormality in A2 group[(7.04±0.12)%] decreased significantly compared with that of Cd group[(17.81±1.55)%] (P0.01).The activities of total superoxide dismutase(T-SOD) in A2 group increased significantly compared with those of Cd-induced group and the levels of malondialdehyde(MDA) decreased significantly compared with those of Cd-exposed group in serum and testis (P0.01).Conclusion Astragalus membranaceus injection can antagonize testis and epididymis toxicity of Cd-exposed rats.The effects might be related with scavenging the oxygen free radicals by astragalus membranaceus injection.


The cyclic spectral analysis of empirical signals from blending modulation systems which is based on orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) is analyzed and exploited in cognitive radio applications in this paper. Four kinds of channel states, that is, spectrum vacancy, primary signal transmitting, secondary signal transmitting, and mix signals transmitting, can be distinguished agilely using their distinct cyclic spectrum feature, which help to access to or remove from channels agilely and reliably. The position of inserting modulation as a feature, which cognitive radio nodes can detect as an unique identifier in network identification. The design of transmitter and receiver are simple and need not a static common control channel with the proposed model of cognitive radio, which promise greater spectral-usage efficiency. Simulation results show that the proposed model can improve spectral-usage efficiency and performance in cognitive radio networks.


Present research was carried out with the intention of finding the kinds of compounds formed by the action of 30% H2O2 on di-basic fatty acid esters.The sample used was di-methyl ester of succinic-, adipic- and sebasic acid, and reacted without catalyst. By reacting 0.1mol of ester with 2.2mols of 30% H2O2 under the condition of 105° C and 30 hours, it was recognized that the various lower mono- and di-basic fatty acids and lower carbonyl compounds were produced.Fixed quantity of carbon dioxide that produced by these reactions, and from these values, it was recognized that the lower esters were readily reactive than the higher homologue, and di-basic fatty acid esters were more readily oxidized than the mono-basic fatty acid esters.


Reduced oxygen concentration environment by diluting with nitrogen (N2) is expected as one of the alternative fire prevention and extinguishing technologies. To ensure the fire safety under reduced oxygen concentration, it is necessary to explore the carbon monoxide (CO) production because CO is known as a major cause of fatalities in compartment fire. To reveal the CO production in gaseous and liquid combustion under reduced oxygen concentration, the CO yield under oxygen-reduced condition was investigated experimentally using a cup burner. CH4 and CH3OH were used as fuels and supplied through the inner cup. Mixtures consisting of oxidizer (O2) and fire extinguishing agent (N2) were issued through the outer chimney. The relative percentages of O2/N2 were varied, maintaining the total flow rate of O2 + N2 constant. The CO concentration in the post-combustion mixture was measured as a function of the oxygen concentration. In the case of CH4 flame, the CO concentration was increased with decreasing O2 concentration. In contrast, in the case of CH3OH, the CO concentration was decreased with decreasing O2 concentration. The results show that the influence of the oxygen concentration on the CO production yield in liquid combustion is apparently different from that of gaseous combustion.


Types of learning disorders are manifold, and each may require different modes of intervention. In children whose learning difficulties stem from psychological causes, family dynamics can play a significant role. Different family constellations provide clues as to the best possible intervention for the individual child. Presented here is a continuum of the varying types of treatment that might be employed, dependent upon the child's problem and the family dynamics. Factors which are important in ultimate choice of treatment are detailed.


We studied the distribution and persistence of malathion and dichlorvos in the Wistar rat and established their toxicokinetics with the help of the PCNONLIN software program.


A study that systematically maps and classifies the major German lieder according to the themes of their text. The author traces in detail the extent to which each theme has evolved from German folk-song, or derives from elsewhere, notably the Romantic period. This analysis also affords insights into the differing personalities of the major lieder composers. It constitutes a comprehensive reference-work, an encyclopedia of lieder themes.


Tietze syndrome is a self-limiting, rare and benign condition that might be mistaken with potentially fatal chest diseases and misdiagnosed mostly as costochondritis.  This disease is most often diagnosed in young individuals under the age of 40, with painful, localized inflammation.Tinea incognito is a ringworm infection that has been altered by corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive medications. Corticosteroids are administered for pre-existing illness or are used incorrectly for the treatment of tinea. We report a case of 20years old male patient admitted in emergency department with complaints of chest pain and SOB with normal ECG while neutrophils, ESR, CRP have found to be abnormal. Patient has been using steroids and itraconazole for maculopapular rashes in lower limb since 1year. Other diagnostic methods such as CT, MRI should be performed to avoid misdiagnosis.  He was prescribed with NSAIDS, antifungals, antihistamines and other supportive measures which helped him to relieve from pain. Proper diagnostic criteria and early diagnosis remain challenging tasks, resulting in undue treatment costs for patients. Before confirming a diagnosis, other underlying diseases should be ruled out.


Leprosy is a chronic disease with clinical presentations according to the immunologic spectrum. Lepromatous form is the most advanced, with the highest transmissibility and risk of causing disabilities. Lucio's phenomenon is a rare manifestation among lepromatous patients with a rapid and severe evolution and high mortality. It is difficult to differentiate from ulcerative/necrotic erythema nodosum leprosum and has no consensus on how it should be treated. This article is a qualitative review of the literature after the introduction of multidrug therapy, aiming to bring consensus related to the clinical, laboratory and histopathological diagnostic criteria of the disease and its management.


Nanoemulsions are transparent system mostly covering droplet size in nanometric scale because of their small droplet sizes. This review aims on the method of formulation, evaluation Methods, advantages and disadvantages and the different route of drug delivery of Nanoemulsion. Nanoemulsion is utilized as transdermal drug delivery and characterized as required component, which optimal isotropic and thermodynamically settled aqueous solute with droplet size generally in the size range from 10 to 200 nm. To improves the soluble and permeability of slightly water dissoluble drug. The in-vitro skin penetration profile of optimized manufacturing were compared with general drug formulation. The factors determines the transdermal penetration of medications are the movement of medication in solvent, discharge the medication solvent, also penetration of drug within skin These are enhancing the rate of absorption discharge volatility in absorption and enhance bioavailability. The methods used for the preparation of Nanoemulsions include high pressure homogenization, Microfluidization, ultrasonication, and spontaneous emulsification. The prepared Nanoemulsions are Characertized by in vitro drug release, Thermodynamical stability studies, Nanoemulsion Droplet size. The future direction on Nanoemulsion is to study the drug delivery of topical, parenteral, intravenous and other route of administration. In this review, the discussion is intended to give a basic knowledge about its preparation, evaluation, mechanism and its application.


In Finland a hermaphrodite cloudberry clone was found in 1991 at Nyby, Petolahti in Maalahti, 40 km south of Vaasa.

Cultivar 'Nyby' has been in commercial propagation since 2005.


This paper proves that not all Fe 2+ ions in alkaline medium can convert into F 3+ ions according to the experiment and calcutation,both highest conversion and optimum PH value exist in the process.


ABSTRACT The swimming behaviours of two sibling species of Tisbe (Copepoda: Harpacticoida) were analyzed. Interference competition for copepod- (encounter-) free space, a behaviourally defined resource, led to vertical habitat displacement of one of the competitors. This swimming adaptation may facilitate the coexistence of two or more (sibling) species of Tisbe observed in contemporary situations. On an evolutionary time scale, such competitive displacement could lead to sexual isolation. Such interactions provide a paradigm for the origin of planktonic copepods from (a) benthic ancestor(s). The resource utilization curves of these species inferred from the frequency distributions of their swimming behaviours were highly leptokurtic. Differing degrees of leptokurtosis in resource utilization curves were shown to account for patterns of speciation in the genus Tisbe.


Objectives: This study elucidates the mechanism by which an increase in blood pressure induces and increased inflammatory response. Methods: The detailed T cell response to ovalbumin (OVA) immunization, and to two models of autoimmune disease, were studied in normotensive and AngII or L-NAME induced hypertensive mice. The interaction of T cells and APCs was characterized to determine the cells and precise signals responsible for the heightened immune reactivity in hypertension. Newly presenting and treated hypertensive patients were also studied. Results: Elevated CD8+ and CD4+T cell responses specific to OVA were observed in hypertensive mice. RIP-mOVA transgenic mice express membrane-bound OVA in pancreatic islet &bgr; cells. When OVA-specific OT-I T cells were infused into RIP-mOVA mice, the hypertensive mice had significantly more OT-I T cell infiltration into the islets and developed diabetes more rapidly than normotensive RIP-mOVA mice. Concanavalin A induced hepatitis was significantly worsened by hypertension as compared to disease in normotensive mice. More effective APC presentation of antigen, but not differences in intrinsic T cell signaling, is a major instigator of the increased T cell response in hypertension. The key difference in the immune system of hypertensive mice is blood pressure mediated up-regulation of CD86 on APCs, which is triggered by increased plasma ATP levels. Hypertensive humans have high plasma ATP but blood pressure lowering reduces plasma ATP levels to control levels. Conclusion: Hypertension induces biochemical and immune changes that intensify inflammation. Our data indicate ATP and APC CD86 as causative and as potential loci to control hypertension induced tissue inflammation.


Objective
To compare and analyze the efficacy and safety of amisulpride and risperidone in the treatment of patients with first-episode schizophrenia(FES).

Methods
80 patients with FES were randomly divided into the observation group (n=40, orally given amisulpride) and the control group (n=40, orally given risperidone) according to random number table.The total effective rate, positive and negative symptoms scale (PANSS), adverse reaction rate of two groups were compared.

Results
1 week after treatment, the negative symptoms score of the observation group was significantly lower than that of the control group[(20.89±3.07)points vs.(18.15±3.64)points, t=3.639, P=0.001].8 weeks after treatment, the PANSS scores and factor score of the two groups had no significant differences(all P>0.05). The total effective rate and adverse reaction rate of the observation group were 90.00%, 17.50% respectively, which of the control group were 82.50%, 27.50% respectively, there were no statistically significant differences (χ2=0.949, P=0.330; χ2=1.147, P=0.284).

Conclusion
Amisulpride and risperidone has similar efficacy and safety in the treatment of patients with FES, but amisulpride has better early effect in improving negative symptoms.

Key words:
Schizophrenia; Amisulpride; Risperidone


An abnormality in transit is commonly considered to account for unexplained gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. This review describes the most commonly used methods for the measurement of GI transit including small bowel transit test for dyspeptic symptoms and diarrhea, colonic transit test for constipation. Colonic transit times can help uncover causative diagnoses by stratifying motility disorders into two main patterns: colonic inertia and outlet obstruction. Several factors, including diet, physical activity, and psychological and hormonal factors may affect digestive transit-time results; therefore, some variation is expected. Noninvasive tests of GI transit help in the evaluation to guide therapy. 36 JIMSA January-March 2012 Vol. 25 No. 1 Arhan et al., 20 radiopaque markers were ingested in the morning and abdominal x-rays were taken at 24-hr intervals until all markers had been passed . Most healthy, symptom-free subjects passed all markers out of the colon within 4 to 5 days. A simplified version of the radiopaque marker total colonic transit test involves one abdominal x-ray on the sixth day or 120 hr after marker ingestion . 4 Another approach for total and segmental colonic transit, described by Metcalf et al. and Chaussade et al., involves the ingestion of radiopaque markers each day at the same time for 3 sequential days. An abdominal x-ray is taken at the same time on the fourth day of the study and then at 3-day intervals (7th day, 10 day, etc) until all markers have been passed. ASSESSMENT AND INTERPRETATION OF COLONIC TRANSIT USING SOLID MARKERS. Various approaches are reported to evaluate the progress of radiopaque markers through the gut . The rate of disappearance of the 20 markers is exponential, with the mean number of markers retained in the healthy colon reported as 16 (1 day after ingestion), 8 (2 days after), 4 (3 days after), 2 (4 days after), and 1 (5 days after) . Marker studies have been used to calculate segmental colonic transit where markers are counted in the right colon, left colon, and rectosigmoid. In this method, the radiograph is separated into segments, markers counted, and a simple mathematical formula used to calculate transit time. For example, if 8 markers were counted in the right colon after 24 hr, 3 markers after 48 hr, 1 marker after 72 hr, and 0 marker after 96 hr, the right colonic transit time = (8 + 3 + 1) × 1.2 = 14.4 hr. For the simplified version of the radiopaque marker total colonic transit test, which involves one abdominal x-ray 120 hr after marker ingestion , colonic transit is normal in adults if <20% of the markers can be seen on the x-ray . Less than 20% marker retention on the fifth-day x-ray would be normal for children . Patients may be found with abnormal transit time for one segment of the colon but not the whole colon. Delay in one segment is only important if total colonic transit is abnormally delayed. However, studies validating the ability of this approach to accurately select patients who would benefit from resection of just one segment of the colon are lacking. Accordingly, segmental colonic transit times (Figure1) are not often used. Instead, the result is used to simply document slow colonic transit and outlet obstruction. costs, and need for specialized equipment (i.e., a gamma camera). The isotope can be given orally in a nonabsorbable form together with a test meal (radiolabeled mixed meal) 7 in a capsule coated with a pH-sensitive material that dissolves in the colon or terminal ileum (coated capsule) 8 or encapsulated in nondigestive capsules . Anterior and posterior gamma camera images are obtained at specified time points. EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR SCINTIGRAPHIC COLONIC TRANSIT STUDY. The equipment used for colonic scintigraphy is similar to that used for gastric emptying study. Specifically, in order to include the entire colon within the region of interest, a gamma camera with a large field of view is required. Since 111In is the preferred radioisotope for colonic transit studies, the gamma camera should be equipped with a medium-energy collimator. Anterior and posterior images are captured and analyzed according to hand-drawn region of interest on a dedicated nuclear medicine computer. PROTOCOL FOR SCINTIGRAPHIC COLONIC TRANSIT STUDIES. Radiolabeled Mixed Meal. A conventional dual-labeled test meal, consisting of a sandwich of two 99mTc-sulfur colloid-labeled scrambled eggs and 300 ml of water labeled with 111In-DTPA, is consumed by the patient to start the study . Dual isotope imaging begins immediately after ingestion of the meal. For 2 hr, to measure gastric emptying of solids and liquids, an image is acquired every 30 min in the upright position. After 2 hr, the subjects are imaged in the supine position every 30 min for the measurement of small bowel transit. This part of the study is continued until all of the tracer has entered the colon. For colonic transit, images are taken at 24, 48, and 72 hr (Figures 2 and 3). The rationale for utilizing radiolabeled liquid for the small intestine and colonic transit portions of this technique is that this reduces the variability in small intestine and colonic transit results that might be caused by delayed gastric emptying for solids. In general the liquid component of a test meal empties from the stomach much more rapidly than the solid component. SCINTIGRAPHIC COLONIC TRANSIT TEST This uses radio-isotopes such as Indium 111, Iodine cellulose, Gallium citrate colonic transit scintigraphy is a safe and noninvasive method for the quantitative evaluation of overall and regional colonic transit. It is applicable for patients with slow and fast transit alike and there is no increase of radiation exposure with multiple scans. Disadvantages are related to the handling of the radioisotope, high JIMSA January-March 2012 Vol. 25 No. 1 37 Coated Capsule. 111InCl3 (0.10 mCi) is mixed with a slurry of 5 mg activated charcoal. The slurry is evaporated to dryness on a hotplate at 90æ%C, and the dried charcoal is placed into a size 1 gelatin capsule (Eli Lilly, Indianapolis, IN) and coated with pHsensitive methacrylate (Eudragit S100) . The capsule is administered with 3 oz of water. This capsule opens to release its contents in the area of the terminal ileum or cecum . After the capsule has been emptied from the stomach or after a maximal wait of 2 hr, 2 scrambled eggs labeled with 99mTc are consumed. The technetiumlabeled meal is used for the measurement of gastric emptying. Images are taken at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 24 hr. A standardized lunch consisting of 500 kcal is consumed 4 hr after the start of the study. In contrast to these studies based on limited images, continuous capture of marker movement within the colon must be used to discriminate between patients with colonic inertia (hypomotility) and those with normal or hypermotility whose transit abnormality is on the basis of poor coordination of pressure activity in different parts of the colon . ASSESSMENT AND INTERPRETATION OF COLONIC TRANSIT USING SCINTIGRAPHY The geometric center is a weighted average of the radioactivity counted over specific parts of the bowel, i.e., the ascending, transverse, and descending colon as well as the rectosigmoid. The method practiced at the Mayo Clinic designates numbers from 1 to 5 for counts in these regions as well as the activity in defecated stools, respectively, as a weighted factor (Figure 3). The method practiced at Temple University designates numbers from 1 to 7 for counts in ascending colon, hepatic flexure, transverse colon, splenic flexure, descending colon, rectosigmoid, and evacuated stools, respectively, as a weighted factor (Figures 2 and 3). The geometric center is calculated as the sum of the fraction represented by the counts in each region divided by the total counts with the sum multiplied by the region number . Thus, a low geometric center implies that most of the radiolabeled material is close to the cecum, whereas a high geometric center indicates that most of the radiolabeled material is in the rectosigmoid or the stools. Radiolabeled Mixed Meal. For colonic transit following a radiolabeled meal, scintigraphic images are taken at 24, 48, and 72 hr. The normal values for the geometric center range from 2.0 to 7.0 for 24 hr, 4.6 to 7.0 for 48 hr, and 6.2 to 7.0 for 72 hr. The diagnosis of colonic inertia is made when the geometric center is less than 4.6 at 48 hr. Although the ranges of normal colonic transit times reported by several investigators are similar , these ranges are not directly comparable because of significant differences in the study protocols. The timing of meals, their caloric and fiber content, and their carbohydrate, fat, and protein content remain to be standardized . Coated Capsule. Luminal pH increases crossing the ileocecal valve area. By using a gelatin capsule coated with pH-sensitive methacrylate, this method permits delayed release of radioisotope and accurate calculation of transit across the colon from a single starting location and time. A marker, to be used to map the location of the capsule, is placed on the patient's anterior superior iliac spine. The geometric center at 4, 24, and, occasionally, 48 hr is estimated using the geometric mean of counts in the ascending, transverse, descending, and rectosigmoid colon and stool (weighted by factors of 1 to 5, respectively). The primary variable of interest is the geometric center at 24 hr (normal range, 1.6–3.8) (Figure 9). The normal values for the geometric center according to the Mayo method are <1.4 for 4 hr and 1.7–4.0 for 24 hr 14 (Fig. 4). Slow colonic transit is defined as a geometric center less than these normal values at 24 hr . Compared to the radioopaque marker technique, scintigraphic assessment of colonic transit takes less time and can identify not only slow, but also rapid colonic transit. This approach provides >90% sensitivity for distinguishing between normal and dela


We present photometric and polarimetric follow-up observations of the eclipsing Sloan Digital Sky Survey cataclysmic variable SDSS J015543.40+002807.2. Linear and circular polarizations were detected, confirming that it is a new polar (AM Herculis system). An accurate eclipse ephemeris yields an orbital period of 87.1435 ± 0.0002 min. Assuming a range of mass ratios 0.11 > M 2 /M 1 > 0.07, the inclination lies in the range 85° < i < 90°. The circular polarization shows a change in sign, implying that SDSS J015543.40+002807.2 is a two-pole accretor, although the possibility that it could be a single-pole accretor cannot yet be ruled out.


At demolition sites in Japan, columns and walls are pulled down and demolished by heavy machinery or wire ropes. In a small-scale building in urban areas, columns and walls are pulled down by wire ropes. Before pulling down, workers damage the bottom part of the columns and walls for weakening them. However, if the damage of the columns and walls are too much, they fall down before use of wire ropes. As a result, they may crush workers. In this study, a fall prevention material was proposed with its installation method and verified its effectiveness by experiments. In an experiment of this study, steel pipes for supporting 3m-column were examined. The steel pipes were installed diagonally to the column. The column was loaded horizontally. We measured load and deformation until the steel pipe failed. As a result of experiments, it was found that the steel pipe buckled or the bolt supporting the steel pipe damaged. We concluded that this method is effective because the steel pipes were found to be sufficiently strong against the load generated in the steel pipes when the columns fell.


The AB5-type alloy powder (MINi3.6Co0.7Mn0.3Al0.4) prepared by melt-spinning was treated by a reducer (solution of sodium hypophosphite) to form a Ni-rich layer on the surface of the particles, which can obviously improved the activity of the quenched powder. For the treated alloy powder the discharge capacity after 2 cycles of charge-discharge reached an ideal value of 241 mA.h.g-1, but only 222 mA.h.g-1 for the non-treated alloy powder after 5 cycles of charge-discharge. AES and XPS results show that the nature of the oxide layer formed on the surface plays a key role on the activation process of the metal hydrides in alkaline solution.


Few studies have examined the acute effects of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (Au‐HSCT) on the neuropsychological functioning of patients with multiple myeloma (MM). The prevalence of cognitive deficits after induction chemotherapy (pre‐AuHSCT) was examined in patients with MM, clinically significant changes in cognitive function 1 and 3 months post‐AuHSCT were determined, and patients who may be vulnerable to cognitive decline during this period were identified.


The paper is to briefly summarize the disaster safety management systems of South Korea, especially the laws on safe management of vessels and to propose tasks for improvement to prevent recurrence of ship accidents after examining the laws related to safe management of vessels in foreign countries. In 2004, Korea enacted the 'Framework Act on the Management of Disasters and Safety' to integrate the existing law system with diversified laws on disasters and accidents, with an attempt to connect laws as a mother law of all laws and ordinances related to disasters. However, it cannot be guaranteed that the safety accidents of vessels will be completely prevented with merely the laws related to safety of vessels. This is because a nation has to do 2 things in relation to safety, one is for the National Assembly to establish a legislation and the other is for the Administration to effectively enforce such legislation. Although a lot of resources and quality resources are required for the former, more resources are necessary for the latter. The common thing found in the laws of foreign countries is that safety inspections of vessels are extremely thorough and strict. In other words, random and special inspections as well as regular inspections are conducted, and safety inspection includes the inspections for safety of vessels, safety of cargo, safety of vessel's equipment and safety management system upon ship accidents. In addition, it is impressive that the US has a command system that can quickly run the disaster relief system by strengthening the authority and responsibility of a field agency primarily responsible for an accident. In this regard, the officials in charge of disaster and safety for each local government should be sufficiently ensured in Korea for specialized tasks related to disaster management, and a disaster management manual that is suitable for each local government should be prepared for repetitive drills and training. It is because prevention and preparation is more important than actions and resolving after an accident for disaster management.


Flavonoids are naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds which exhibit antioxidant properties. Quercetin is an important member of flavonoids family. It is a common ingredient in numerous food supplements like vegetables specially onion, citrus apples and olive oil. Apart from vegetables and fruits other sources are plant derived beverages like green tea and red wine. Recent studies show that it exerts potential health benefits due to its ability to scavenge various highly reactive free radical species generated during various metabolic activities. Studies claimed that it protects against aging, osteoporosis, pulmonary5 and cardiovascular disease promotes balanced blood pressure and also protects from certain types of cancers. Consequently it stimulated interest in its study to collect scientific evidences for its various health benefits and to examine possible mechanism of its antioxidant activity and toxicological aspects. The aim of this review is to review the studies so far in order to elucidate the possible beneficial health effects of quercetin and to understand the possible mechanism involved in its antioxidant activity.


Simple Summary Reptiles are popular pets around the world, although their welfare requirements in captivity are not always met, due in part to an apparent lack of awareness of their needs. Herein, we searched a selection of the scientific literature for evidence of, and explorations into, reptile sentience. We used these findings to highlight: (1) how reptiles are recognised as being capable of a range of feelings; (2) what implications this has for the pet trade; and (3) what future research is needed to help maximise their captive welfare. We found 37 studies that assumed reptiles to be capable of the following emotions and states; anxiety, stress, distress, excitement, fear, frustration, pain, and suffering. We also found four articles that explored and found evidence for the capacity of reptiles to feel pleasure, emotion, and anxiety. These findings have direct implications for how reptiles are treated in captivity, as a better understanding of their sentience is critical in providing them with the best quality of life possible. Abstract We searched a selection of the scientific literature to document evidence for, and explorations into reptile sentience. The intention of this review was to highlight; (1) to what extent reptile capability for emotions have been documented in the scientific literature; (2) to discuss the implications this evidence has for the trade in reptiles; and (3) to outline what future research is needed to maximise their captive welfare needs. We used 168 keywords associated with sentience, to search through four journal databases and one open-access journal. We recorded studies that explored sentience in reptiles and those that recognised reptile sentience in their experiments. We found that reptiles were assumed to be capable of the following emotions and states; anxiety, distress, excitement, fear, frustration, pain, stress, and suffering, in 37 articles. We also found four articles that explored and found evidence for the capacity of reptiles to feel pleasure, emotion, and anxiety. These findings show that reptiles are considered to be capable of experiencing a range of emotions and states. This has implications for how reptiles are treated in captivity, as a better understanding could help to inform a range of different operational initiatives aimed at reducing negative animal welfare impacts, including improved husbandry and consumer behaviour change programmes.


It is well established that renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) blockade with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-Is) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) is beneficial in preventing or reversing endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, thus preventing clinical endpoints such as cardiovascular mortality and morbidity, myocardial infarction and stroke [7,8]. ACE-Is and ARBs reduce end-organ damage in the heart, kidneys and brain [7,8]. Despite the different mechanisms of actions of ACE-Is and ARBs, both classes of medications have a blood pressure-lowering effect and both are appropriate for first-line therapy for diastolic and/or systolic hypertension [2]. Moreover, both ACE-Is and ARBs provide renovascular protection and are highly recommended as blood pressure medications in patients with kidney disease.


The study investigated the effects of the aqueous and methanol extracts of Alchornea laxiflora on two mouse models of anxiety, the elevated plus-maze and the staircase. This was with a view to providing information on the anxiolytic potential of A. laxiflora. Seven (7) groups of mice of both sexes (n=6) weighing 18 – 22 g were used for the study, which were randomized into control and the test groups. The control group (I) received 10 % Tween 80 (vehicle), 0.1 ml/10 g mouse, p.o. while the test groups (II,III,IV,V,VI) were administered graded doses (100, 200, 400, 800, 1600 mg/kg, p.o.) of the extracts. The reference group (VII) received standard drug, Diazepam (1 mg/kg, i.p.). The animals were observed for exploratory activity in the open and the close arms of the elevated plus-maze. The animals were also observed for rearing and stepsclimbing of the staircase model. They were appropriately scored in the elevated plus-maze and the staircase paradigms individually 30 and 60 min post intra-peritoneal and oral administrations respectively for both the aqueous and the methanol extracts. The extracts demonstrated anxiolytic activity in the elevated plus-maze test, by the increase in the percentage entry into open arms, increase in the percentage time spent in the open arms, significant (P = 0.000) increase in the time spent in the open arms and a decrease in the index of open arm avoidance. In the staircase model, there was a significant (P = 0.000) decrease in rearing and a significant (P = 0.000) increase in the number of steps-climbing. The study concluded that the aqueous and the methanol extracts of A. laxiflora have anti-anxiety activities in mice.


BOXING HAS PROVIDED A SIGNIFICANT MORAL PARADIGM throughout much of Norman Mailer's life and work. In his seminal essay entitled "Death" in The Presidential Papers (1963), Mailer uses the first Sonny Liston/Floyd Patterson championship bout as a point of departure from which to develop a profound series of perceptions about the American national temperament, particularly that of blacks. In King of the Hill (1971) and more strikingly in The Fight (1975) he deals nominally with a specific championship bout, but goes beyond journalism to find certain normative precepts in the sport. But there is another level on which boxing informs and conditions Mailer's vision: In his fiction, most notably An American Dream (1965) and Tough Guys Don't Dance (1984), boxing experiences help define the protagonists. Stephen Richards Rojack and Tim Madden respectively find "the reward of the ring" (Dream 16) applicable to their existential quests for self. Ultimately, Mailer's views on boxing are far from simplistic. From the powerful account of Benny Paret's death in the ring at the hands of Emile Griffith to his statements to me about the ill-fated conclusion to Muhammad Ali's career to his 1988 article on Mike Tyson, "Fury, Fear, Philosophy," Mailer has found in this arena of ritualized violence a rich source of perception about the human condition. In fact, in his 1993 essay in Esquire, "The Best Move Lies Next to the Worst" (reprinted in The Time of Our Time), he deals with his own boxing experiences at the Gramercy Gym with Jose Torres, Ryan O'Neal and others. The title of the piece comes from the comparison of boxing to chess (Time 1045-1052). I believe it's best to confront the central issue here at the outset. Mailer has, indeed, perceived gladiatorial confrontation and violence as a central metaphor for his own artistic and personal struggles for growth, fulfillment, salvation. As he muses retrospectively upon a turning point in his career during his personal crises of the early 1960s, [T]he review in Time [of Deaths for the Ladies] put iron into my heart again, and rage, and the feeling that the enemy was more alive than ever, and dirtier in the alley, and so one had to mend, and put on the armor, and go to war, go out to war again, and try to hew huge strokes with the only broadsword God ever gave you, a glimpse of something like almighty prose. (Existential Errands 204) Very well, then: Mailer unabashedly uses violent confrontation as a touchstone for his vision of life and art. He has persistently perceived himself as embattled. But witness the artistic regeneration, the prolific and truly significant output that resulted as a direct consequence of this attitude. Mailer's significant writing about boxing begins with The Presidential Papers in the long and riveting essay entitled "Death," originally titled "Ten Thousand Words a Minute," one of his "Big Bite" columns for Esquire. Not only does this piece prefigure and announce the new mode of Mailer's nonfiction writing in the late 1960s and 1970s, notably The Armies of the Night, it is the key to his fascination with boxing. The first Patterson/Liston fight provides Mailer an opportunity to embark on a series of sophisticated statements on boxing and the national disposition. But the center of the piece, as the title suggests, is the brutal killing of Benny Paret in the ring by Emile Griffith. Let us deal with the most hideous aspects of boxing first. Unlike most bouts, this one was fueled by an intense hatred between the fighters. Here is Mailer's description of the climax: In the twelfth, Griffith caught him. Paret got trapped in a corner. Trying to duck away, his left arm and his head became tangled on the wrong side of the top rope. Griffith was in like a cat ready to rip the life out of a huge boxed rat. He hit him eighteen right hands in a row, an act which took perhaps three or four seconds, Griffith making a pent-up whimpering sound all the while he attacked, the right hand whipping like a piston rod which has broken through the crankcase, or like a baseball bat demolishing a pumpkin. …


The use of computers for colour generation is widely extended in colour research. Sometimes the reproduction of colours whose chromaticity coordinates correspond to a specific real standard is fundamental. In this paper we present a review of the capabilities and limitations of CRT monitors to generate colours. Finally, we propose a method for the optimum generation of real colours based on visual perception.


Expansion of glutamine-encoding CAG trinucleotide repeats has been associated with at least nine progressive and inherited neurodegenerative diseases. These disorders are called polyglutamine (polyQ) diseases. The onset and severity of the disorders are directly correlated with the polyQ chain length. One well known case is Chorea Huntington. All polyQ diseases are accompanied by accumulation of inclusion bodies containing large deposits of the aggregated polyQ fragments within the cells. In an effort to understand the molecular basis underlying pathogenesis, designed polyQ constructs can be considered as model systems. In this work, the polyQ protein of the type His-SUMO-N17-QN-Flag with varying polyQ length (Q11, Q38, Q56, and Q74) was used for the investigation of the formation of polyQ aggregates. The constructs mimic the polyQ sequence with the flanking N-terminal sequence (N17) of the Huntingtin protein below, close and above the disease threshold. The SUMO domain keeps the protein soluble and a protease recognition sequence allows Ulp1 cleavage. A detailed study of the conformational changes of the polyQ fragments after enzymatic cleavage may shed light on the molecular mechanism and potential intermediates of polyQ-mediated aggregation. Infrared spectroscopy is applied to investigate the kinetics of aggregation and to exhibit different intermediate states of the polyQ fragments along the aggregation process. Significant attention is given to identify intermediate states in the early stages of the aggregation process. A combination of time-resolved infrared difference spectroscopy and appropriate immobilization approaches is realized to perform spectroscopic studies under controlled conditions. The results demonstrate that the aggregation pathway is very intricate and polyQ repeats are able to adopt multiple conformations which may be transient and exist in an equilibrium state. Identification of β-structured intermediates for the different constructs enables to suggest aggregation mechanisms in dependence of the polyQ repeat length. Short fragments with Q11 arrange the β-structured aggregates by intermolecular interaction of stretched monomers. In comparison, longer fragments with Q38, Q56 and Q74 undergo conformational transition to various β-structured intermediates including intraand intermolecular β-sheets.


In this study, lump and two classes of interaction, multi-stripe, and breather wave solutions for the (3+1)-dimensional generalized shallow water equation are presented via the Hirota bilinear method. Interaction solutions are found between one-lump and one-stripe, and one-lump and two-stripes solutions by combining a quadratic function and an exponential function, and a quadratic function and a hyperbolic cosine or double exponential functions, respectively. Dynamical behaviours of some obtained valid solutions are presented through some graphs. The physical interpretation of fission-fusion dynamics is also explained graphically through lump-kink interaction solutions. During the fission-fusion interaction process, it is seen that stripe solitons split into a stripe and a lump soliton, and then the lump and stripe solitons fuse together. During this process, a rogue wave is found between one lump and twin stripes soliton at Furthermore, multi-stripe and breather wave solutions are investigated by choosing the appropriate functions and the values for the free parameters. The multi-stripe waves are found to be nonsingular and rectangular hyperbolic shaped. On the other hand, breather waves are found to be periodic, which can evolve periodically along a straight line in the xy-plane. The produced wave solutions might be helpful to understand the propagation behaviour of waves in shallow water.


Using fnite difference methods for partial differential equations, this thesis focuses on the problem of connecting overlapping solution domains in the context of a frst order hyperbolic problem. E ...


The anti-shock capability of naval ship equipment must be checked during the ship design process to ensure battle effectiveness.A three-dimensional model for a raft-motor-generator system was built with the raft,stator and rotor of the generator set simulated by an elastomer to analyze the shock response of the stator and the rotor.The method is compared with the two-step method in which the response of an equivalent rigid generator block is obtained by using a simplified multiple rigid body model which is then used as input for analyzing the generator stator and rotor response.The simulations show that the two-step method gives smaller shock pads than this method in most circumstances,which can lead to ineffective designs.


The presence of explosives in soils and the interaction with drought stress and nutrient limitation are among the environmental factors that severely affect plant growth on military soils. In this study, we seek to isolate and identify the cultivable bacteria of a 2,4‐dinitrotoluene (DNT) contaminated soil (DS) and an adjacent grassland soil (GS) of a military training area aiming to isolate new plant growth‐promoting (PGP) and 2,4‐DNT‐degrading strains. Metabolic profiling revealed disturbances in Ecocarbon use in the bare DS; isolation of cultivable strains revealed a lower colony‐forming‐unit count and a less diverse community associated with DS in comparison with GS. New 2,4‐DNT‐tolerant strains were identified by selective enrichments, which were further characterized by auxanography for 2,4‐DNT use, resistance to drought stress, cold, nutrient starvation and PGP features. By selecting multiple beneficial PGP and abiotic stress‐resistant strains, efficient 2,4‐DNT‐degrading consortia were composed. After inoculation, consortium UHasselt Sofie 3 with seven members belonging to Burkholderia, Variovorax, Bacillus, Pseudomonas and Ralstonia species was capable to successfully enhance root length of Arabidopsis under 2,4‐DNT stress. After 9 days, doubling of main root length was observed. Our results indicate that beneficial bacteria inhabiting a disturbed environment have the potential to improve plant growth and alleviate 2,4‐DNT stress.


Frequent item sets mining algorithms in uncertain data streams almost base on the expected frequent item sets. Compared to probabilistic frequent item sets, it can't reflect the confidence of item sets. We propose the algorithm based on probabilistic frequent item sets mining in uncertain data streams. The algorithm processes one basic sliding window every time, and the mining results are stored in the Probabilistic Frequent Tree. When the window sliding, it dynamically updates Probabilistic Frequent Tree to delete old data and add new data. Theoretical analysis and experiments show that the algorithm is effective.


The use of physical currency is currently the most widely used method of transaction. The pattern recognition technology of paper currency has a wide range of applications, such as self-checkout machines, ATMs, vending machines, and devices for the blind. In modern society, there are more and more convenience stores. If they can have the RMB recognition system, they will save energy from cashiering. That is the reason for choosing this research Direction. However, it fails to identify images rotated over a certain angle or with excessive noise at first, and it cannot be 100% exact that the accuracy of our work now. But it will be perfected. To realize the function, this paper proposed a neural network model, which can accurately identify RMB. The best performance of the image process can be achieved by utilizing the Automatic white balance, the Automatic brightness, and the Automatic de-noising. Then it is time to cut and extract the image. At last, the image is put into the neural network model for recognition. The defect of this study is that it ignores the influence of possible fluctuation of image quality on the recognition results in the real situation. The related work established a Radial Basis Function Network based on notes interesting features and correlations between images. The image processing technology is used to improve image quality. Through the above methods, the work can identify all kinds of RMB. Moreover, it can already ensure that the success rate of RMB identification can reach more than 90%.


The present study was carried out to observe the knowledge of Medical research ethics among medical students. The study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, Bidar Institute of Medical sciences, Bidar. 200 male (n=100) and female (n=100) second, third & final year MBBS students were included in the study. The standard questionnaire was used to assess participants' knowledge in research ethics. Knowledge of both male andfemalestudentsregardingresearchethics.Inourstudywehaveobservedthat veryfewstudentshasknowledgeabouttheresearchethics.However, comparatively female students are having better knowledge about research ethics than males. We conclude that overall knowledge about Medical research ethics in medical students was very poor and there is a need to introduce research ethics as one mandatory subject in medical syllabus, as research ethics has applicability. Medical council of India must consider this aspect and introduce a Research ethics department in Medical field along with other departments.


Abstract Ten core samples representing the subsurface formation of Sidi Salem well No. 1, in the onshore Nile Delta, Egypt. The samples were subjected to comprehensive organic geochemical studies (such as rock-eval pyrolysis, gas chromatograph [GC] and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry [GC-MS]) aiming to evaluate potential source rocks, organic matters types, depositional environments, and maturation. The results revealed that the source rocks in the drilled sections are marginally mature to mature zone and have fair to good potential for generating oil and gas. These rocks are dominated by organic matter derived mainly from mixed organic matters (marine and terrestrial) with contributions from algae and bacteria deposited under anoxic to suboxic saline environments.


Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions to drugs (SCARD) generally require hospitalization, and at times in the intensive therapy or burn care unit for observation of the vital signs and the viscera function. The aim of this study is to describe these reactions in order to facilitate recognition and treatment. This group of drug reactions includes anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and, depending on the systemic involvement, erythroderma. In this article we approach the characteristics and treatment of some adverse reactions to drugs: anaphylaxis, erythroderma, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN).


The utility model relates to a medium frequency induction heating device for modified oxidized magnesium powder, which is composed of a revolving body, a medium frequency induction heating device, and a feeder, wherein, the revolving body is a circular pipe made of permeability magnetic materials, and both ends of the circular pipe are opened; a feeding port is higher than a discharge port; the inner wall of the revolving body is axially provided with a material stirring board, the outer wall is coated with heat-insulating materials, and both ends are respectively supported via rotating brackets and are driven via a motor and a gear; an electromagnetic induction coil of the medium frequency induction heating device is encircled outside the revolving body; the feeder is composed of a spiral propeller driven via a motor and a feeding hopper. The drying kiln furniture enables modified oxidized magnesium materials to be heated and dried in the process of flowing, the operation can be continuously carried out, the productive efficiency is high, the electric power consumption is low, and the generated inflammable and explosive gases can be exhausted out at any time to avoid the explosion.


The Use of DMD based Rapid Manufacturing Systems has proven to be very advantageous in the production of highly accurate plastic based components for use in mass customization market such as hearing aids, and dental markets. The voxelization process currently afforded with the DLP technology eliminates any layering effect associated with all existing additive Rapid Manufacturing technologies. The smooth accurate surfaces produced in an additive process utilizing DLP technology, through the voxelization approach, allow for the production of custom finished products. The implementation of DLP technology in rapid prototyping and rapid manufacturing systems allow for the usage of highly viscous photopolymer based liquid and paste composites for rapid manufacturing that could not be used in any other additive process prior to implementation of DLP technology in RP and RM systems. It also allowed for the greater throughput in production without sacrificing quality and accuracy.


This thesis focuses on understanding the cost of transparent interprocess communication in a distributed system consisting of a set of machines connected by a local network. Interprocess communication is transparent if processes can communicate without regard to physical host boundaries. Transparent interprocess communication is a very powerful tool because it allows us to view the collection of different machines as a single, logically unified computer system. We concentrate on the efficiency aspects of transparent interprocess communication on a local network.
In order to obtain experimental evidence, a transparent message-passing mechanism has been implemented as part of the distributed V kernel. This message-passing mechanism has been used as the basis for various distributed applications. In particular, it has been used extensively for providing transparent file access from diskless workstations to a set of network-based file servers. Based in part on experience gained from the implementation and use of the distributed V kernel, this thesis presents four contributions: (1) An empirical evaluation of high-performance message passing on a local network. (2) A queueing network model of file access from diskless workstations over a local area network to a set of file servers. (3) An analysis of the protocol used to support the V interprocess communication on a broadcast network. (4) The integration of the broadcast and multicast capabilities of local area networks into message-based interprocess communication.


When is a child critically ill or injured? When is treatment urgent? Quick medical evaluation can make a life-or-death difference. It can help practitioners decide when to act immediately and when, if treatment is not urgent, there is time for a complete history and a comprehensive physical. To help medical personnel perform such evaluations, the Academy debuted a new pediatric emergency assessment model at its 1998 Annual Meeting last October. Known as the Pediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT), the new paradigm is premised on a speedy, organized physical assessment of presenting characteristics, rather than a search for a specific pathologic diagnosis . PAT is intended as a tool for teachers and clinicians. Its simplicity and reproducibility are ideal for teaching pediatric life support courses in all settings.


Written for Java developers who are interested in building web services using Apache Axis2, this example-packed book will show you how to build SOAP and REST web services and APIs for your web applications.


STONE (1) and Beach (2) reported the execution of elements in the feminine copulatory pattern by male rats which were vigorous copulators in the normal masculine fashion. Various lines of evidence suggest the possibility that male rats possess neural mechanisms capable of mediating the mating behavior of the opposite sex, and that this overt behavior pattern may be manifested when the male, in a high state of sexual excitement, is repeatedly mounted and palpated by a vigorous copulator of his own sex. Arousal of sexual behavior in prepubertally castrated male rats after administration of testosterone propionate (3), and restoration of mating in postpubertal castrates by the same method (4) indicates that sexual excitability adequate to the occurrence of normal mating is dependent upon androgenic substances. Beach (5) found that sexually inexperienced male rats injected with testosterone propionate prior to opportunity for intercourse with the receptive female displayed a tendency to mate with non-receptiv...


The thesis is based on five main periodicals in Marketing.It makes a statistical analysis to the past thirty years'(from 1970 to 2008)thesis in Marketing which were written by Chinese scholar.The article is written from three aspects: the amount of Marketing thesis,the subject and the method.The result shows that there're three main characters in the 1984 Marketing thesis which were published in the past thirty years.


Acoustic trapping is a novel technology that allows for microfluidic sample preparation and pretreatment. The aim of this text is to give the reader a general insight in microfluidics with a focus on acoustic trapping. One of the next steps in the development of acoustic trapping is to promote commercialization of the technology which requires that similar devices can be manufactured reproducibly. In this thesis the fabrication steps of acoustic trapping systems were investigated to increase the reproducibility of device manufacture. The fabcrication steps were refined by improving the soldering of the trapping devices and by developing a new method for attaching the capillaries to the trapping chip. This new method resulted in more reproducible devices but also led to a decrease in overall trapping capacity for a given voltage over the piezoelectric element.

Another matter of investigation in this thesis was to improve the capacity of trapping systems. The relationship between channel dimensions, size of the piezoelectric element and capacity was investigated. It was found that a combination of larger transducers and channels the capacity could be more than quadrupled.


In this paper, we implicitly incorporate morpheme information into word embedding. Based on the strategy we utilize the morpheme information, three models are proposed. To test the performances of our models, we conduct the word similarity and syntactic analogy. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of our methods. Our models beat the comparative baselines on both tasks to a great extent. On the golden standard Wordsim-353 and RG-65, our models approximately outperform CBOW for 5 and 7 percent, respectively. In addition, 7 percent advantage is also achieved by our models on syntactic analysis. According to parameter analysis, our models can increase the semantic information in the corpus and our performances on the smallest corpus are similar to the performance of CBOW on the corpus which is five times ours. This property of our methods may have some positive effects on NLP researches about the corpus-limited languages.


The rms value gives the average energy content of a signal, which is an important parameter in measurements of electrical signals. For non-sinusoidal signals of arbitrary shape a true rms converter should be used. From the existing converters, like electronic, thermal, electrodynamic and electrostatic types, only electronic and thermal converters have been monolithically integrated to date. With the development of micromachining techniques it is possible to integrate also the electrostatic converter. Merging this micromachined converter with on-chip readout electronics enables an accurate converter to be realised when placed in a feedback loop.<<ETX>>


AbstractA method for indirect estimation of design flood in poorly gauged urbanized river basins by using distributed hydrological modelling is presented. It is based on the critical flood design criterion that maximizes peak flow for a given return period by transforming precipitation of depth duration frequency curve into runoff. The indirect method is compared against the direct method based on regional approach and index flood estimation. This paper shows that the direct method significantly underestimates design flood in case discharge measurements are strongly affected by artificial alteration of water courses with possible catastrophic consequences in terms of loss of life and damage to property when the cause of alteration would be removed. Moreover, the use of a spatially distributed model allows taking into account the heterogeneity that generally characterizes river basins with an high degree of urbanization. The presented indirect method provides a design hydrograph that is useful for those ca...


The invention discloses a building yard design method and a system based on microclimate analysis. The building yard design method and the system based on microclimate analysis are used for evaluating the microclimate environment of a building yard, instructing the design of the building yard, enabling the design of the building yard to more effectively and accurately consider the microclimate environment. The building yard design method and the system based on microclimate analysis firstly establish an index system which is used for evaluating good or bad of the building yard microclimate based on construction climate relevant theories. For example, a higher microclimate score can be acquired by adequate shading and wind speed in summer, and the higher microclimate means good microclimate environment. After establishing the index system, the building yard design method and the system based on microclimate analysis firstly utilize a simulation software to analyze wind environment and sunlight condition in the building yard under a condition of typical seasons, and then process all kinds of simulation results, start scoring process for a index system score and the simulation analysis results, and generate a microclimate evaluation index picture. The microclimate evaluation index picture can clearly reflect good and bad of the microclimate environment in the building yard, and enable architects to visually modify the building yard microclimate environment in the design.