This android obesity can contribute to a reduction in insulin sensitivity and development of dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes [13] . These are important risk factors for CVD, which represent the major causes of death among postmenopausal women [13] . The prevalence of overweight, obesity and metabolic syndrome (MS) among Moroccan perimenopausal women is extremely high [14, 15] . Indeed, overweight and obesity have increased considerably in the last decades among this population, especially in women, and obesity has become one of the main public health problems in the country [14, 16] .

This android obesity can contribute to a reduction in insulin sensitivity and development of dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.

These are important risk factors for CVD, which represent the major causes of death among postmenopausal women.

The prevalence of overweight, obesity and metabolic syndrome (MS) among Moroccan perimenopausal women is extremely high.

Indeed, overweight and obesity have increased considerably in the last decades among this population, especially in women, and obesity has become one of the main public health problems in the country.


The miniaturisation of sensors and wireless systems is generating an explosive growth in body-centric wireless computing applications based on wearable electronic devices, especially in healthcare [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] . Consequently, the need for lightweight, low-profile, low cost, and wearable antennas has also grown rapidly during recent years. In this paper we present a successful design of such a wearable antenna for an emerging class of sensor-enabled passive radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags for use in healthcare applications.

The miniaturisation of sensors and wireless systems is generating an explosive growth in body-centric wireless computing applications based on wearable electronic devices, especially in healthcare.


All across the countries, natural fibres have become wellknown as an important material in many industries application. There are several types of established natural plentiful in nature and so on. While in term of properties, sugar palm fibre has shown low density, good mechanical strength, and also good in thermal properties [3] . Apart from those mentioned above, sugar palm fibre also has some disadvantages such as non-adhesive with polymer matrices, high moisture, low modulus and low strength in properties. Therefore, certain methods like chemical treatment were employed in order to improve the attraction between both constituents in the composite [2, 4] .

While in term of properties, sugar palm fibre has shown low density, good mechanical strength, and also good in thermal properties.

Therefore, certain methods like chemical treatment were employed in order to improve the attraction between both constituents in the composite.


Concerning the type of tax, differences in tax compliance were only found in the Austrian sample. Austrian participants were less compliant in paying inheritance tax than paying stock profit tax, while German participants' tax compliance was not influenced by the tax they were asked to pay. These results could also be explained by a status quo perspective in the case of Germany, as both taxes are levied there. In Austria only stock profit taxes are levied, and taxes on inheritance represent the levying of new taxes, which is perceived as a loss and provokes reactance (Kirchler, 1997) .

In Austria only stock profit taxes are levied, and taxes on inheritance represent the levying of new taxes, which is perceived as a loss and provokes reactance.


Attitudes toward inheritance tax play a pronounced role in inheritance tax behavior. The more positive the attitude toward this tax is, the more compliant the tax behavior is. This finding presents a possibility to increase the acceptance of inheritance tax and hence compliant tax behavior. Attitudes and normative value principles are part of peoples' social representations. While attitudes are evaluations and peripheral elements, hence can undergo change, normative value principles are deeper rooted, core elements and highly resistant to change (Stark et al., 2017) . Trust in the state and general tax morale/compliance also seem to be important for inheritance tax compliance. High levels of trust and general tax morale/compliance go in hand with high levels of inheritance tax compliance. Furthermore, people adhering to the family principle trust the state less and show lower levels of general tax morale/compliance and a greater need for participation. Political orientation also plays a determining role in inheritance tax compliance. A rather right-wing orientation is associated with less inheritance tax compliance, a negative attitude toward inheritance tax, less trust in the state, and lower general tax morale. These findings correspond to findings on income tax behavior.

While attitudes are evaluations and peripheral elements, hence can undergo change, normative value principles are deeper rooted, core elements and highly resistant to change.


There is 5,322 ha land in Yogyakarta used as an area to grow cashew nut apple, and Gunung Kidul is the largest one (60.38%). Meanwhile, in Central Java it covers 11,828.68 ha with Wonogiri covering equal to 7,059 ha. Both Gunung Kidul and Wonogiri produce 3,242.9 tons of nuts without its fruit (Darsono 2004) . There are 200 nuts in 1 kg of the nuts of cashew nut apple, or 648.580.000 of nuts for 3,242.9 tons. It means there are about 194,574 tons of cashew fruit for that amount of nuts.

Both Gunung Kidul and Wonogiri produce 3,242.9 tons of nuts without its fruit.


When considering floating-point domains, the quantification of the solution space for a constraint usually involves the computation of an integral. Symbolic and numerical integration are usually impracticable in the case of complex mathematical constraints and multi-dimensional input domains due to the high computational time and memory demands of such methods [17] . Furthermore, despite the fact they could be able to provide exact results, symbolic methods cannot deal with problems whose solution cannot be expressed in analytical form, which is the case for many integration problems [15] . Statistical methods overcome the limitations in terms of feasibility and memory demand of both symbolic and numerical methods, allowing to deal with arbitrarily complex constraints. However, statistical methods are based on simulation and can only provide approximate results. While the accuracy of the results can be arbitrarily improved, the price to be paid is the in-creased number of simulations, which increases the analysis time, possibly making it unreasonably long. This paper presents qCORAL, a compositional statistical approach for the efficient quantification of solution spaces for arbitrarily complex constraints over bounded floating-point domains. Our compositional approach further leverages interval constraint propagation to improve the accuracy of the obtained results with a limited number of additional experiments.

Symbolic and numerical integration are usually impracticable in the case of complex mathematical constraints and multi-dimensional input domains due to the high computational time and memory demands of such methods.

Furthermore, despite the fact they could be able to provide exact results, symbolic methods cannot deal with problems whose solution cannot be expressed in analytical form, which is the case for many integration problems.


This analysis of epistemic talk as a facet of collaborative activity has -to our knowledge -not been explored before. The analysis provided here, particularly in the context of IS tasks, suggests a fruitful method for future research to use. Given the value of collaborative dialogue in educational contexts, the findings reported in this paper also suggest the need for research and interventions in effective dialogue around information seeking and processing tasks. The problems experienced by the groups while they engaged in search are not unusual. Despite the increasing prevalence of, and familiarity with the internet and search engines, peopleparticularly children -struggle to find and evaluate information. In schools it may be appropriate to explore technological solutions to encourage more critical use of search throughout the IS process. More broadly, this research highlights the value of effective dialogue for pursuing such tasks, and thus interventions which focus on the development of children's skills in using dialogue may be particularly fruitful (Littleton & Mercer, 2013) .

More broadly, this research highlights the value of effective dialogue for pursuing such tasks, and thus interventions which focus on the development of children's skills in using dialogue may be particularly fruitful.


As future work, we plan to use HFSMs to extend our recent FFSM-based test-case generation method [25] . We also plan to include history, deep-history, join/forks, and entry/exit points connections in the HFSM model. Moreover, we plan to explore the state explosion problem identified in the HFSM used in the case study and use well-known reduction techniques and adapt them to the context of model-based testing.

As future work, we plan to use HFSMs to extend our recent FFSM-based test-case generation method.


Resonance is a well-known phenomenon in engineering, which arises when the excitation frequency at an operating condition is near a natural frequency of the system. When a resonance occurs for a system, the resulting vibration levels can be very high and this can cause considerable damage. Suppressing resonant vibration is therefore very important to ensure an appropriate running condition and a desired behaviour of the system [1] [2] [3] [4] . The standard approach to suppress resonant vibration is to either introduce damping or a vibration absorber which can be passive, active or a combined approach [5, 6] . This paper describes an entirely different approach which results in a novel way of avoiding resonant vibration. The concept is to transfer or distribute the incoming energy in such a way that the energy entering the resonant region of the structure of interest is reduced to a level which avoids significant problems by introducing a nonlinearity between the input and the structure. A analytic relationship between the system output frequency response and the non-linearity is derived in this study to reveal how the energy entering the structure is modified by the non-linearity, which results in energy transfer.

Suppressing resonant vibration is therefore very important to ensure an appropriate running condition and a desired behaviour of the system.

The standard approach to suppress resonant vibration is to either introduce damping or a vibration absorber which can be passive, active or a combined approach.


Transcription of text talks: The video recordings were transcribed. The focus was on the content of talk in interaction rather than the pronunciation of single words, pauses, hesitations, and so on, as in conversation analysis (Norrby, 1996) . Accordingly, the transcription is less detailed than in conversation analysis. All utterances and some contextual cues, such as hesitation, were transcribed. The representation of the text talk is orthographic. Capital letters at the beginning of the sentence, punctuation, commas and other signs of written language are present. The excerpts are organized by speaker, utterance, and activity.

The focus was on the content of talk in interaction rather than the pronunciation of single words, pauses, hesitations, and so on, as in conversation analysis.


In previous studies, we asked the students to take on the role of question initiators; however, in those studies the students were much older. Furthermore, those studies were conducted in small groups. Therefore, we did not ask students to take on the role of question initiators, but asked teachers to encourage students to ask questions. One reason for this was that we did not want to cause the students to have cognitive overload (Spörer et al., 2009) .

One reason for this was that we did not want to cause the students to have cognitive overload.


Currently, there is significant interest in the design of batteries for a variety of purposes; however, the common feature for all these applications is that the batteries need an increased overall runtime and reduced levels of dissipated power [2, 3] . Lithiumbased batteries are becoming increasingly popular for use in applications ranging from consumer electronics via power tools to electric vehicles. The advantages and disadvantages of lithium-based batteries in comparison with other rechargeable battery technologies available on the market are listed in Table 1 [4] .

Currently, there is significant interest in the design of batteries for a variety of purposes; however, the common feature for all these applications is that the batteries need an increased overall runtime and reduced levels of dissipated power.

The advantages and disadvantages of lithium-based batteries in comparison with other rechargeable battery technologies available on the market are listed in Table 1.


Electronic warfare (EW) environments are filled with microwave signals that vary over a wide spectrum range and have a short duration. Capturing these signals and quickly identifying their parameters such as frequency, amplitude, etc., are of great importance [1] . Microwave measurements are conventionally performed using electronic devices. Despite their high resolution and high flexibility, purely electronic solutions may not be suitable for many applications due to speed and bandwidth limitations [2] . Compared with electronic techniques, the photonic-assisted techniques have the advantages of high bandwidth, low loss, light weight, and immunity to electromagnetic interference [3] .

Capturing these signals and quickly identifying their parameters such as frequency, amplitude, etc., are of great importance.

Despite their high resolution and high flexibility, purely electronic solutions may not be suitable for many applications due to speed and bandwidth limitations.

Compared with electronic techniques, the photonic-assisted techniques have the advantages of high bandwidth, low loss, light weight, and immunity to electromagnetic interference.


Higher education is directed to increase enrollment in degree levels and to add to the number of private universities. However, the increasing demand for higher education puts a strain on academics to meet the demand and to sustain e-learning [5] . Researches concerned with energy education are generally subsumed or briefly mentioned in the energy education literature. Much research has contributed to understanding how students approach web-based learning at home. In contrast, fewer studies have been conducted on energy education and these are often much less available widely.

However, the increasing demand for higher education puts a strain on academics to meet the demand and to sustain e-learning.


Individual associations of e-learning that are negative include aspects that are impersonal, frustrating, and lonely. The main disadvantages of e-learning are thought to be time wastage (easy distractions), unreliable computer systems, poor quality, or gimmicky learning programs [2] . Students prioritize their personal goals and view classmates as academic enemies. Interaction and mutual trust between peers is deficient and learning effectiveness does not significantly improve [4] .

The main disadvantages of e-learning are thought to be time wastage (easy distractions), unreliable computer systems, poor quality, or gimmicky learning programs.

Interaction and mutual trust between peers is deficient and learning effectiveness does not significantly improve.


Sequences of the cytochrome b fragment were analysed for 52 samples of Podarcis and one Lacerta. No indels were observed. Within the ingroup there were 50 variable positions, 47 of which were parsimony informative; 34 were variable within P. lilfordi, but only 7 sites within P. pityusensis. In most cases the substitutions occurred in the third codon position. Only six substitutions gave aminoacid replacements, five of which were found in P. lilfordi and one in P. pityusensis. The average uncorrected distance between the two species studied was 0.097. This is within the range typically observed between reptile sister taxa (Harris, 2002) .

No indels were observed.

This is within the range typically observed between reptile sister taxa.


A PV-powered desalination system has been successfully designed, and field testing has been performed in the Australian outback. The system is based on a hybrid membrane configuration, with an ultrafiltration (UF) module for removing particulates, bacteria and viruses and a nanofiltration (NF) or reverse osmosis (RO) membrane for removing salts. The design maximises the use of sparse water resources by using water recovery. The concept of energy recovery was also investigated. The system produced clean drinking water from a variety of feed waters, including high salinity (3500 mg/L) water. The amount of current drawn from the PV panels depended directly on the operating pressure of the pump, as is expected. The amount of power required to produce one litre of clean drinking water ranged from 2 to 8 kWh/m 3 , depending on the salinity of the feed water and the system operating conditions. The optimum operating pressure when filtering bore water was determined to be in the range 6 -7 bar. Figure 1 The excellent solar radiation resource possess by Australia (reprinted with permission [4] ).

Figure 1 The excellent solar radiation resource possess by Australia (reprinted with permission).


In this paper, we have explored the possibilities of comparing different slip models for moving contact lines by analyzing traveling waves, in the very specific context of a thin film driven up an inclined plane by a Marangoni force, against the action of gravity. This setting gives rise to behavior of the contact line rather different from other cases in which there is a single force, as noted in the earlier paper [6] . In the current paper, we have compared the singular slip model with a range of parameters to the precursor model, with a range of precursor thicknesses.

This setting gives rise to behavior of the contact line rather different from other cases in which there is a single force, as noted in the earlier paper.


In practice, the speed prediction problem can often be seen as time series prediction where we predict the future value by looking at current and historical data. The main idea behind time series prediction is that time series data have two different properties: partially deterministic and partially chaotic (Wu et al., 2004) . Future prediction is obtained by reconstructing the deterministic factor from the available data and predicting the random behavior caused by unknown factors.

The main idea behind time series prediction is that time series data have two different properties: partially deterministic and partially chaotic.


Cu-Zn alloy is widely used as an industrial material because of its excellent characteristics such as high corrosion resistance, nonmagnetism, and good machinability. In particular, machinable brass is obtained by adding lead [1] . High copper contents (larger than 60%) are needed to produce products by cold working in order to have a good enough formability. When a good machining behaviour is required, lead is added (until 3%). The benefits conferred by the presence of lead have been appreciated for many years to facilitate chip fracture, reduce cutting forces, increase the machining rate and productivity, reduce tool wear, and enhance surface finish [2] .

In particular, machinable brass is obtained by adding lead.

The benefits conferred by the presence of lead have been appreciated for many years to facilitate chip fracture, reduce cutting forces, increase the machining rate and productivity, reduce tool wear, and enhance surface finish.


Grain refiners are materials added to alloys to aid in nucleation and lead to the production of fine and uniform grain sizes [5] . Grain size has a measurable effect on most mechanical properties. For example, at room temperature, hardness, yield strength, tensile strength, fatigue strength, and impact strength all increase with decreasing grain size [6] . From the earlier work with various alloys and grain refiners, it is well known that boron refines the yellow brass, boron or zirconium refines Enviro Brass III depending on the tin content, and zirconium (added as sponge zirconium) refines the copper alloys containing silicon [7] .

Grain refiners are materials added to alloys to aid in nucleation and lead to the production of fine and uniform grain sizes.

For example, at room temperature, hardness, yield strength, tensile strength, fatigue strength, and impact strength all increase with decreasing grain size.

From the earlier work with various alloys and grain refiners, it is well known that boron refines the yellow brass, boron or zirconium refines Enviro Brass III depending on the tin content, and zirconium (added as sponge zirconium) refines the copper alloys containing silicon.


However, due to its new coding features, H.264/AVC is much more different and complex than other existing standards. For example, multiple reference frames and variable block sizes make the motion estimation in H.264/AVC much more complex than that of other standards. Besides motion estimation, intraprediction and coding mode decision in a rate-distortion optimized fashion also increase the coding complexity substantially. Besides, these new features also make accurate rate control more difficult and challenging for both coding and transcoding in H.264/AVC standard [9] . Due to these differences, direct application of existing transcoding techniques may not be efficient and suitable for this new standard.

Besides, these new features also make accurate rate control more difficult and challenging for both coding and transcoding in H.264/AVC standard.


Balance is dependent on the integration of inputs from a triad of sensory systems: visual, somatosensory (mainly proprioception) and vestibular [9] [10] [11] [12] . With increasing age, there is a progressive domination of the somatosensory and vestibular systems, with less reliance on visual orientation inputs [7, 8, 13, 14] . Hence, it is reasonable to postulate that the proper development of the visual system is crucial to the development of normal balance. Equal and optimal visual acuity, binocular vision (stereopsis), and vergence eye movements should all contribute to postural stability. Unfortunately, the contributions of the various elements of vision to balance control are not fully confirmed [15] [16] [17] [18] [19] [20] . There is conflicting evidence regarding the effect of monocular viewing on postural control [15, 17, 19] . Previous reports showed that balance could be affected by mild visual disorders [21, 22] . In one report, as many as 5% of children who presented with vertigo or disequilibrium had normal vestibular and somatosensory neurologic examinations, but instead were found to have visual disorders, such as vergence dysfunction, latent strabismus with binocular vision abnormalities, or anisometropia [21] . Most of these children did not have true vertigo, suggesting that their vision disorder was the source of the difficulties maintaining equilibrium. When the postural stability of these children was tested, they performed worse than their normal peers when fixating on a target at both near and far distance, and with binocular viewing, monocular viewing, or with both eyes closed [22] .

Balance is dependent on the integration of inputs from a triad of sensory systems: visual, somatosensory (mainly proprioception) and vestibular.

With increasing age, there is a progressive domination of the somatosensory and vestibular systems, with less reliance on visual orientation inputs.

Unfortunately, the contributions of the various elements of vision to balance control are not fully confirmed.

There is conflicting evidence regarding the effect of monocular viewing on postural control.

Previous reports showed that balance could be affected by mild visual disorders.

In one report, as many as 5% of children who presented with vertigo or disequilibrium had normal vestibular and somatosensory neurologic examinations, but instead were found to have visual disorders, such as vergence dysfunction, latent strabismus with binocular vision abnormalities, or anisometropia.

When the postural stability of these children was tested, they performed worse than their normal peers when fixating on a target at both near and far distance, and with binocular viewing, monocular viewing, or with both eyes closed.


Furthermore, a single shot energy measurement can be useful in plasma accelerators to measure shot to shot energy variations after the plasma interaction (i.e. Eu-PRAXIA@SPARC LAB [9] ). In order to perform this measurement with ultra short beams (typical in plasma accelerators), one needs to take into account also the coherent OTR whose contribution is neglected in this paper. Moreover, for this type of beams, the use of dipoles to perform energy measurements could be critical, due to the high energy jitter.

Furthermore, a single shot energy measurement can be useful in plasma accelerators to measure shot to shot energy variations after the plasma interaction (i.e. Eu-PRAXIA@SPARC LAB).


Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease associated with hyperglycemia and oxidative stress which generally causes several tissue damage and subsequently degenerative complications in many organs such as the heart [1] . In fact, cardiovascular complications are one of the major causes of death in diabetes mellitus [2] . The hyperglycemia as well the physiological oxidative parameters induced cardiac dysfunction and lesions via direct toxic effects on cardio-myocytes. Subsequently natural active principle might restore diabetes cardiac complications.

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease associated with hyperglycemia and oxidative stress which generally causes several tissue damage and subsequently degenerative complications in many organs such as the heart.

In fact, cardiovascular complications are one of the major causes of death in diabetes mellitus.


The paper is organized into three main sections. The preprocessing and feature extraction section describes the preprocessing involved as well as the extraction of features that can represent the signatures better. The preprocessing in the form of normalization has been done before extracting features from the signature. The horizontal and vertical projection features of a signature are extracted using discrete Radon Transform. A combined vector of vertical and horizontal projections has been taken as the main feature vector. After the preprocessing and feature extraction section, the matching technique is described in detail. Results and comparisons of the proposed and existing method are shown in the experimentation section. All the experiments were performed on a global signature database (GPDS-Signature Database) of 2106 signatures with 936 genuine signatures and 1170 skilled forgeries [11, 12] .

All the experiments were performed on a global signature database (GPDS-Signature Database) of 2106 signatures with 936 genuine signatures and 1170 skilled forgeries.


Also the habit to locate activities in the same places within a half-hour contact zone seems to be lasting (Brette & Moriset 2009; Grimes, 2000) . Moreover, there seems to be a temporal lag between the possibilities offered by the ICT and adaptation of behaviour. As Pyoria argues, "in order to make telework a viable alternative to more orthodox work practices, it has to be understood that a transition towards distributed organizations comprised of people connected mainly via ICTs is a large-scale social and cultural transformation that will not happen overnight" (Pyoria, 2003) .

Also the habit to locate activities in the same places within a half-hour contact zone seems to be lasting.

As Pyoria argues, "in order to make telework a viable alternative to more orthodox work practices, it has to be understood that a transition towards distributed organizations comprised of people connected mainly via ICTs is a large-scale social and cultural transformation that will not happen overnight".


The proportion of rural population is decreasing all over Europe; young and qualified people are the first to leave because of the lack of challenging jobs in the countryside. Research also 252/264 indicates a minor scale in migration of high-skilled professionals to remote areas. These people possess well-established contacts with the core markets and thus might have a significant positive impact on the local economy (Grimes, 2000) . However, the in-migration of qualified professionals only to a small extent mitigates the decrease of socioeconomic activity in the periphery (Grimes, 2000) .

These people possess well-established contacts with the core markets and thus might have a significant positive impact on the local economy.

However, the in-migration of qualified professionals only to a small extent mitigates the decrease of socioeconomic activity in the periphery.


Telework, which has been proposed as a promising solution for rural development, continues to be an urban and suburban phenomenon. It might be explained by several factors. A face-toface communication is crucial for the transfer tacit knowledge and allows solving problems more efficiently. Thus the use of ICT may replace routine communication, but not the decision making. And only when face-to-face contacts are established they might be maintained by using ICT. Indeed, the experience shows that companies have been unwilling to outsource work to unknown distant teams (Grimes, 2000) .

Indeed, the experience shows that companies have been unwilling to outsource work to unknown distant teams.


In terms of potential carbon savings, solar and wind power are not zero-carbon due to the carbon usually will be emitted during manufacture, construction, maintenance and decommissioning processes throughout the devices' life cycles [37] . Therefore the carbon saving contributions of the entire system will also be simply estimated. The adopted assumptions, factors, and calculation in terms of the CO 2 emission estimation are presented in the appendix (seeAppendix A). Thus, TE module's potential annual CO 2 emissions, when powered by the presented hybrid energy system, are 2856.85 kgCO 2 /year. Similarly, for the same case study, a generic electric heater's potential annual CO 2 emissions are 7162.25 kgCO 2 /year (seeAppendix A). Consequently, a potential estimation of CO 2 emission reduction is 4305.40 kgCO 2 /year.

In terms of potential carbon savings, solar and wind power are not zero-carbon due to the carbon usually will be emitted during manufacture, construction, maintenance and decommissioning processes throughout the devices' life cycles.


Photosynthesis acts to replenish carbohydrates that are mobilized or metabolized overnight. In the present study, carbohydrates accumulated in both leaf and stem tissues during the photoperiod, exhibiting a diurnal phenomenon (Sicher et al., 1984) . Photosynthetically fixed carbon was partitioned toward sugars in the morning, and after reaching a certain level, starch accumulated in the later part of the photoperiod. This is shown by the significant increase in all individual sugar concentrations and a concurrent marginal increase in starch concentrations from 0800 to 1200 HR and a substantial increase only in starch concentrations at 1600 HR. Sucrose levels increased during the initial 4 h and decreased during the latter 4 h, whereas starch increased steadily during the 8-h photoperiod, indicating that starch is the major temporary storage carbohydrate in lantana. A similar response was also observed in the leaves of sugar beet, Beta vulgaris L. (Fondy and Geiger, 1982) . The maintenance of leaf TNC at a higher level and a concurrent decrease in stem TNC between 1200 and 1600 HR indicates that most of the photosynthate was retained by the leaves and only a small quantity was allocated for export during the afternoon.

In the present study, carbohydrates accumulated in both leaf and stem tissues during the photoperiod, exhibiting a diurnal phenomenon.

A similar response was also observed in the leaves of sugar beet, Beta vulgaris L..


According to the social-cognitive learning theory, knowledge coming from one's surrounding gains meaning thanks to mental phas es and, thence, l earning happens (Fetsco & McClure, 2005) . They pick the stimulators reachi ng th em i n the pres ent social condition, perceive the essential ones, evaluate and try to attach a reasonable meaning to them. Hence, learning does not happen as a result of the Stimulator -Reaction relationship as it is with the behaviorism, but, rather, it is the result of the correlation of Stimuli-Organism-Reaction (Ormrod, 2006, p.18-21) .

According to the social-cognitive learning theory, knowledge coming from one's surrounding gains meaning thanks to mental phas es and, thence, l earning happens.


The first reference to the concept of the CBBE related to brand equity in online commerce and services can be found in 2006. At that time, the first attempt was made to measure the CBBE taking into account the specificity of the Internet [19] (pp. 799-825). So far, however, there are no references of this concept regarding the sphere of culture, and therefore there are no studies indicating the possibilities of its application in cultural institutions. Research on the impact of online consumer activity on the brand equity of cultural institutions is still at a very early stage of development. Therefore, this article is an attempt to fill the research gap in this area.

At that time, the first attempt was made to measure the CBBE taking into account the specificity of the Internet(pp. 799-825).


However, when reaching for social media in the process of building the brand equity of a cultural institution, it should be remembered that they are governed by slightly different laws than typical marketing communication tools. The particularly important ones are: openness, transparency, informality, and equality of users. An important implication of these characteristics is a willingness for sincere dialogue with users. Institutions need to be aware that interactions with the community (often anonymous) can be both positive and negative, which can affect the brand equity in both positive and negative ways. The latter interactions, criticising the cultural institution, the initiatives and subjects presented, are especially difficult. Examples include harassing comments to certain posts made by artists appearing on social networks, or often non-related comments on film materials that are posted on YouTube. In addition, there still remains the rational and substantive criticism of the published content and of the activities to which it relates, which often cannot be simply ignored. Its existence requires the cultural institution to determine appropriate guidelines in such cases. Of course there is also the option to disable commenting, but this takes away invaluable feedback, thanks to which the institution can not only build the brand equity but also improve its operations and adapt them to the needs of its customers [32] .

Of course there is also the option to disable commenting, but this takes away invaluable feedback, thanks to which the institution can not only build the brand equity but also improve its operations and adapt them to the needs of its customers.


Sobocińska's research also shows that social media are gaining importance in Poland and are becoming a more important tool in the cultural institutions' communication with the market [26] . Studies conducted by Pew Research Center on 1244 non-governmental organisations operating in the US prove that American cultural institutions mainly use social media in their activities, such as: Facebook (99%), Twitter (74%), YouTube (67%), Flickr (38%), LinkedIn (31%), Wikipedia (27%), Vimeo (23%), Foursquare (20%), Yelp (19%), and Google+ (17%) [27] . Out of the surveyed organisations, 12.2% have four profiles in social media, 11.9% have three profiles, 11.3%-five profiles, 11.1%-two profiles, and 10.6% as many as six [27] (p. 27). It is worth noting that every fourth organisation publishes content on social media several times a day (25%), and every fifth one-once a day (20%). In addition, 28% publish content several times a week, and 16%-once a week. Similarly to Sobocińska's research, it follows that the role of social media in the coming years will be even more significant [26] .

Sobocińska's research also shows that social media are gaining importance in Poland and are becoming a more important tool in the cultural institutions' communication with the market.

Studies conducted by Pew Research Center on 1244 non-governmental organisations operating in the US prove that American cultural institutions mainly use social media in their activities, such as: Facebook (99%), Twitter (74%), YouTube (67%), Flickr (38%), LinkedIn (31%), Wikipedia (27%), Vimeo (23%), Foursquare (20%), Yelp (19%), and Google+ (17%).

Out of the surveyed organisations, 12.2% have four profiles in social media, 11.9% have three profiles, 11.3%-five profiles, 11.1%-two profiles, and 10.6% as many as six(p. 27).

Similarly to Sobocińska's research, it follows that the role of social media in the coming years will be even more significant.


The presence of proton exchange in the water-ethanol is a well-known fact (Roberts, 2002) . Hydroxyl proton (OH) of ethanol can exchange with free hydrogen ions, which are generated in water (self-dissociation), or in trace amounts of acids, alkalis or dissociated ethanol. The speed of exchange is proportional to the concentration of free ions. The exchange with acidic and basic impurities also impacts the position of average signal of water. The NMR spectra of AAM protons have a different appearance depending on the pH.

The presence of proton exchange in the water-ethanol is a well-known fact.


The recent advent of smart grid technologies will increase the monitoring capability of the electric power system [5] . Furthermore, the investment in renewable energy dispatch centers enables real-time acquisition of time series measurements from wind power plants (WPP) [6] . The availability of the most recent WPP measurements improves the forecast skill during the first lead-times, commonly called very short-term horizon [7] .

The recent advent of smart grid technologies will increase the monitoring capability of the electric power system.

Furthermore, the investment in renewable energy dispatch centers enables real-time acquisition of time series measurements from wind power plants (WPP).

The availability of the most recent WPP measurements improves the forecast skill during the first lead-times, commonly called very short-term horizon.


Previous reports have shown a crucial role of chemokines and their receptors in tumor growth, angiogenesis, and tumor cell homing in lymph nodes, bone marrow and distant metastases [9] [10] [11] . In particular, the chemokine CXCL12 (SDF-1) is a broadly expressed cytokine that plays important roles in embryogenesis, hematopoiesis and tumorigenesis of various entities [12, 13] . At present, two receptors of SDF-1 α have been identified, CXCR4 and CXCR7, which may act as contributing factors in metastasic spread of melanoma, breast, gastric, and EC [12, 14] . While several authors have investigated CXCR4 expression, its function and prognostic impact in EC, no data are available about the expression of CXCR7 in EC [3, [15] [16] [17] [18] [19] [20] . Inhibition of the CXCR4 receptor by specific antagonists has shown an anti-proliferative effect in EC and other entities in vitro and in vivo in xenograft mouse models [13, 15, 16, 21] . Phase 1 trials are investigating the inhibitory potential of CXCR4 antagonists in vivo in several other entities (for example high-grade glioma; NCT01339039 or multiple myeloma; NCT00903968).

Previous reports have shown a crucial role of chemokines and their receptors in tumor growth, angiogenesis, and tumor cell homing in lymph nodes, bone marrow and distant metastases.

In particular, the chemokine CXCL12 (SDF-1) is a broadly expressed cytokine that plays important roles in embryogenesis, hematopoiesis and tumorigenesis of various entities.

At present, two receptors of SDF-1 α have been identified, CXCR4 and CXCR7, which may act as contributing factors in metastasic spread of melanoma, breast, gastric, and EC.

While several authors have investigated CXCR4 expression, its function and prognostic impact in EC, no data are available about the expression of CXCR7 in EC.

Inhibition of the CXCR4 receptor by specific antagonists has shown an anti-proliferative effect in EC and other entities in vitro and in vivo in xenograft mouse models.


Since only functional heterozygotes can be produced by selfing in a complex hybrid stabilised by a balanced gametic lethal system, this system may well confer a selective advantage onto its carrier in terms of resource allocation at the post-pollination stages. However, the fecundity of such plants would be halved because of the random distribution of complexes to megaspores. Restoration of this fecundity could be achieved through an increase in ovule numbers. There is evidence that ovule numbers have increased in Isotoma complex hybrids (Ling, unpublished data). Restoration of fecundity could also be achieved through the development of a Renner Effect, as in Oenothera, or through a polarised distribution of the complexes such that the female transmissible complex was preferentially distributed to the functional megaspore, as is the case with the univalents in Leucopogon juniperinus (Smith-White, 1955) . Although neither system is evident in Isotoma, strong positive selection pressure would be expected to operate on plants carrying female gametic lethals which displayed tendencies in either of these directions.

Restoration of fecundity could also be achieved through the development of a Renner Effect, as in Oenothera, or through a polarised distribution of the complexes such that the female transmissible complex was preferentially distributed to the functional megaspore, as is the case with the univalents in Leucopogon juniperinus.


There are also some limitations for this study. Firstly, the sample size and spread did not adequately represent universities in Nigeria. Secondly, sample was selected from just a public university in South-Western part of Nigeria. Thirdly, the two independent variables examined are not the only psychological factors which account for CBT anxiety. For example, emotional intelligence (EI) may also predict CBT anxiety. This is because research Psychological Thought 2016, Vol. 9(1), 58-66 doi:10.5964/psyct.v9i1.160 has shown that individuals with EI experiences have the ability to manage their own and others emotions (Goleman, 1995) . Fourthly, self-report measures, which are vulnerable to social desirability effects, were used for data collection. Therefore, future studies should put the foregoing limitations into consideration when investigating the antecedents of CBT anxiety among undergraduates.

This is because research Psychological Thought 2016, Vol. 9(1), 58-66 doi:10.5964/psyct.v9i1.160 has shown that individuals with EI experiences have the ability to manage their own and others emotions.


CBT has begun to gain popularity over the traditional PPT because of the numerous benefits it can offer. These benefits include easy administration, prompt scoring of test results, and reduced costs of test production (Ogunmakin Psychological Thought psyct.psychopen.eu | 2193 psyct.psychopen.eu | -7281 & Osakuade, 2014 . Furthermore, CBT reduces examination malpractice, it is more secure, and it is one of the best global practices (Bodmann & Robinson, 2004; Cantillon, Irish, & Sales, 2004; Ogunmakin & Osakuade, 2014) .

Furthermore, CBT reduces examination malpractice, it is more secure, and it is one of the best global practices.


However, observations of events in some Nigerian universities in recent time have shown that most undergraduates are very apprehensive and anxious about CBT or have CBT anxiety. This is not because the students are unfit for the test or lack computer skills, however, the researchers' observations and in-depth interactions with some of the students showed that some of these students are not familiar with CBT unlike PPT. This may be due to the fact that CBT is recently introduced in most Nigerian universities (Bodmann & Robinson, 2004) . Time pressure, irregularity of server, presence of many invigilators, and inadequate computer skill are also some of the factors that may create CBT anxiety for undergraduates in Nigeria.

This may be due to the fact that CBT is recently introduced in most Nigerian universities.


According to Compeau and Higgins (1995, p. 192) , computer self-efficacy is the "judgment of one's capability to use a computer". In this study, computer self-efficacy is conceptualized as an undergraduate student's judgment and belief in his/her capability to effectively execute, perform and succeed in CBT and other computer-related activities. High computer self-efficacy increases computer-related performance and the ability to persevere when faced with computer-related difficulties (Holcomb, Brown, Kulikowich, & Zgeng, 2003) . It reduces computer-induced anxiety and increases positive attitude toward computer (Compeau & Higgins, 1995) . This may be because individuals who possess high computer self-efficacy are assertive and believe that their efforts will produce success (Balogun & Olawoye, 2013) .

High computer self-efficacy increases computer-related performance and the ability to persevere when faced with computer-related difficulties.

It reduces computer-induced anxiety and increases positive attitude toward computer.

This may be because individuals who possess high computer self-efficacy are assertive and believe that their efforts will produce success.


Inguinal hernias are common presentation to the surgical clinics, worldwide. A lot of advancements have occurred, from the time Bassini reported his herniorrhaphy technique in 1884. Herniorrhaphy operations were further modified by Shouldice, Halstead, and McVay [7] . The concept of using prosthetic material was envisioned by Billroth in 1878, but was only feasible in the late 1950's, when Usher publicized the use of polypropylene prosthetic mesh in hernia repair, followed by Irving Lichtenstein, who coined the term "tension-free" mesh hernia repair in 1986. The main benefit of the Lichtenstein repair is the avoidance of tension at suture line, therefore decreasing recurrence rate, markedly [3] .

Herniorrhaphy operations were further modified by Shouldice, Halstead, and McVay.

The main benefit of the Lichtenstein repair is the avoidance of tension at suture line, therefore decreasing recurrence rate, markedly.


One of the characteristic trades of the CSI algorithm is that it does not require the explicit solution of the forward scattering problem. This is different from the widely used Newton-based algorithms, in which each iteration of the algorithm requires the solution of the forward scattering problem [8, 9, 22, 23] . Since solving the forward scattering problem is most often a computationally expensive task, this feature is often considered one of the strongest arguments for using the CSI algorithm.

This is different from the widely used Newton-based algorithms, in which each iteration of the algorithm requires the solution of the forward scattering problem.


In the cyclic model, the M2-branes stretched between the boundaries become tensionless at the instant of collision. In the weakly-coupled four-dimensional description these objects are heterotic strings whose tension, in four-dimensional Planck units, goes to zero at the moment of impact. Because the masses vary rapidly during the collision, the nonadiabaticity is large and we expect copious production of these strings. It would be extremely interesting to compute the energy loss through this string/membrane production and to understand the implications for the cyclic models [38] .

It would be extremely interesting to compute the energy loss through this string/membrane production and to understand the implications for the cyclic models.


The intuition underlying this result is that in relativistic D-brane scattering, it should be possible to pair-produce highly-excited open strings. The density of string states at high excitation levels grows exponentially with energy; this is the well-known Hagedorn density of states. For this reason, even if the production of a given excited string state is exponentially suppressed compared to production of a massless string state, the competition of the growing and decaying exponentials will typically cause highlyexcited strings to dominate the process, in terms of both their number and their share of the total energy. Thus, one expects pair production of a huge number of highly excited strings. This is indeed the case, as was first explained by Bachas in the important work [4] . Our further observation is that because the energy transferred into these open strings can easily be comparable to the initial kinetic energy of the D-brane pair, the massive open strings are absolutely central to the dynamics. This means that the backreaction arising from purely stringy effects is crucial.

This is indeed the case, as was first explained by Bachas in the important work.


Our goal in this work is to understand open string effects in relativistic dynamics; the nonrelativistic case is already well-understood [5, 1] . We will therefore impose 1 − v ≪ 1 so that η ≫ 1. Another important consideration is that the D-branes should have Compton wavelengths small compared to the impact parameter. Because the D-branes grow light at strong string coupling, this amounts to a requirement that the coupling should be sufficiently weak. Another obvious advantage of weak coupling is the suppression of string loop effects; our primary computation is a one-loop open string process. A further requirement is that the D-brane Schwarzschild radius should be much smaller than the impact parameter. This too can be achieved with a suitably small string coupling, as we will demonstrate in §5.3. Furthermore, although energy loss through closed string radiation can be an important effect in a system of moving branes, there is a wide range of string coupling, depending on η, for which this effect is subleading compared to open string production. Although all these considerations show that weak coupling is desirable for control, it is important to recognize that as the coupling decreases, the D-branes grow heavy and hence stretch the strings farther before coming to rest.

Our goal in this work is to understand open string effects in relativistic dynamics; the nonrelativistic case is already well-understood.


In this paper we present an overview of the AMPERE model comparison with focus on the implications of modest short-term policies to 2030. In this context, we assess the emission consequences of the pledges for the year 2020, and specifically explore the implications if the policy stringency of the pledges would continue to the year 2030. In total nine international integrated assessment modeling teams have participated in the model comparison and developed a set of more than 300 scenarios based on harmonized assumptions about the pledges and other factors (see Section 2 on methods). The diversity of modeling approaches permits us to cover a wide range of dynamics and to explicitly explore uncertainty owing to structural as well as parametric differences between the models. Our paper is complemented by a second AMPERE modeling comparison exploring the implications of different regional accession rules for long-term climate policy objectives [17] . In addition, a series of papers in this issue present insights of individual modeling teams in greater detail [18] [19] [20] [21] [22] .

Our paper is complemented by a second AMPERE modeling comparison exploring the implications of different regional accession rules for long-term climate policy objectives.

In addition, a series of papers in this issue present insights of individual modeling teams in greater detail.


Stabilizing global temperatures requires a limit on the cumulative amount of long-lived greenhouse gases emitted to the atmosphere [23] [24] [25] [26] . Any lack of emission mitigation over the near term will need to be compensated thus by more stringent and more rapid emission reductions later in the century. Key questions addressed in the paper are, therefore, whether the "gap" can still be closed and long-term targets be attained if the world delayed stringent policies up to 2030? What are the implications for the pace of the future energy transformation, considering particularly the inertia of the system against rapid changes? How would the overall costs of mitigation be affected, and which technologies might be critical for bridging the near-term emission gap?

Stabilizing global temperatures requires a limit on the cumulative amount of long-lived greenhouse gases emitted to the atmosphere.


Dementia poses a significant risk to those over the age of 65, affecting up to 46.8 million individuals globally, a number that is expected to increase to approximately 131 million by 2050 [https:// www.alz.co.uk/research/WorldAlzheimerReport2015.pdf]. Currently, no reliable treatments exist, although it has been estimated that slowing disease progression by just 5 years would reduce the number of dementia-related deaths by almost half [https://www.alzheimers.org.uk]. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder of the brain, and the most common cause of dementia amongst the elderly [1] . AD is typified by progressive memory loss and significant cognitive decline amongst other complications that ultimately leads to death [2] .

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder of the brain, and the most common cause of dementia amongst the elderly.

AD is typified by progressive memory loss and significant cognitive decline amongst other complications that ultimately leads to death.


A major pathological feature of AD is misfolding and aggregation of the naturally occurring amyloid beta (Aβ) family of proteins. A variety of different Aβ peptides are generated by successive proteolytic cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein (APP). These accumulate as large insoluble aggregates in AD brains and are referred to as 'senile plaques'. The amyloid cascade hypothesis proposes that Aβ plays a central role in AD [2] . However, AD and dementia are complex diseases, and the role of Aβ and other disease factors are still incompletely understood. Studies are also hampered by the brain's relative inaccessibility, and clinical diagnosis typically occurs many years after disease onset [3] . Consequently, there is considerable impetus towards developing non-invasive, reliable and cost-effective diagnostic methods so those at risk may be identified at relatively early stages to maximise the chances of clinical intervention. Most studies into AD and dementia are primarily focused on memory loss and cognitive decline [4, 5] . However, many AD patients are also reported to suffer from a variety of visual complications, which by contrast has received comparatively little attention. The recent discovery that Aβ deposits in the ageing human retina correlate with complex retinopathies such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has given support to the hypothesis that shared pathologies may exist between the brain and senescent retina.

The amyloid cascade hypothesis proposes that Aβ plays a central role in AD.

Studies are also hampered by the brain's relative inaccessibility, and clinical diagnosis typically occurs many years after disease onset.

Most studies into AD and dementia are primarily focused on memory loss and cognitive decline.


The mechanical sensitivity can also be increased by decreasing the gap between the parallel-plate sense capacitors. However, the minimum producible gap size is limited by the MEMS technology. Techniques have been presented to reduce this minimum gap mechanically after production with a lever and lock approach [6] . However, this gives substantial overhead to the mechanical structure and possibly reliability problems with respect to shock survival. In this paper, we explore a new electrostatic actuation method to reduce the gap during operation with a differential setup of two proof masses.

Techniques have been presented to reduce this minimum gap mechanically after production with a lever and lock approach.


The prevalence of H. pylori infection in adults also shows geographic variation in Japan [14] . There is no report on such prevalence in Akita Prefecture, but in a study comparing seven Japanese regions (Hokkaido, Aomori, Yamagata, Gunma, Aichi, Shiga and Kagawa), Yamagata Prefecture, located just next to Akita Prefecture, showed the highest prevalence (54.5%). Thus, it could be postulated that H. pylori positivity in adults in Akita Prefecture is also high. In these situations, it is meaningful to investigate the accurate prevalence of H. pylori infection in children in this region.

The prevalence of H. pylori infection in adults also shows geographic variation in Japan.


Flow rate of the solution was examined at 0.10, 0.40, 0.70, and 1.0 mL/min (Figure 3) . Among the conditions, the best yield of nonanal (8%) was achieved at an intermediate flow rate of 0.40 mL/min, as observed by Ley and coworker for the hydroformylation of styrene analogs [23] . This behavior was ascribed to high flow rates, which resulted in insufficient reaction times; low flow rates did not allow the gaseous reagents and the substrate solution to mix efficiently.

Among the conditions, the best yield of nonanal (8%) was achieved at an intermediate flow rate of 0.40 mL/min, as observed by Ley and coworker for the hydroformylation of styrene analogs.


Using 3-dimenisonal ribs or pillars distributed in a flow field, as shown in Fig.2 , is expected to have mass transfer enhancement and thus a better fuel cell performance [13, 14] . However, application of this concept to actual fuel cells has long been restricted by the fact that a uniform distribution of flow in such a flow field is difficult to enforce [15, 16] . Recently, a uniform flow distributor with very good performance was invented by the current authors' group [17] . Therefore, assuming the use of this new flow distributor, 3D current collectors will be studied in this work. A comparison of the performance of the 3D current collector with that of 2D current collectors will be carried out.

Using 3-dimenisonal ribs or pillars distributed in a flow field, as shown in Fig.2 , is expected to have mass transfer enhancement and thus a better fuel cell performance.

However, application of this concept to actual fuel cells has long been restricted by the fact that a uniform distribution of flow in such a flow field is difficult to enforce.

Recently, a uniform flow distributor with very good performance was invented by the current authors' group.


The highly anisotropic nature of the tube is critical to provide percolative behavior at low-volume fractions, resulting in graphite-like electrical and thermal properties at 1-2 vol% additions [5] . Overall, CNTs are generally considered in three categories: single-wall nanotubes (SWNTs), double-wall nanotubes (DWNTs) and multiwall nanotubes (MWNTs). In order to take into account the wide range of available carbon nanotubes, we have started our work with different types of CNT, such as double-walled carbon nanotubes (DWNTs) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs).

The highly anisotropic nature of the tube is critical to provide percolative behavior at low-volume fractions, resulting in graphite-like electrical and thermal properties at 1-2 vol% additions.


The recently discovered carbon nanotubes (CNT) have attracted great interest as fillers for novel polymer composites [1] [2] [3] . CNT polymer composites are one answer among others to the increasing worldwide demand for novel polymer materials with improved physical and mechanical properties, for applications ranging from the aerospace domain to high-tech automotive components. For instance, in order to avoid electrostatic charging of an insulating polymer matrix or to apply electrostatic painting processes, sufficient electrical conductivity of the polymer is needed [4] . By using carbon nanotubes as fillers in those materials, one expects to introduce the required electrical conductivity together with a potential increase in mechanical performance. Tube diameters can range from 1 to 100 nm with aspect ratios (length/diameter) greater than 100 or 1000.

The recently discovered carbon nanotubes (CNT) have attracted great interest as fillers for novel polymer composites.

For instance, in order to avoid electrostatic charging of an insulating polymer matrix or to apply electrostatic painting processes, sufficient electrical conductivity of the polymer is needed.


Lately, the use of natural therapeutic drugs in the absence of any side effects appear promising towards chronic wounds healing [7] . Since ancient civilization, plants have been potentially used towards accelerated wound healing process without having any scientific proof of their efficacy. In fact, fundamental understanding regarding the effectiveness of these plants Tel: +60 075557548 Fax: +60 075531279 E-mails: raheemmohssen@gmail.com (RM Shadhan); pauliena@utm.my (SPM Bohari).

Lately, the use of natural therapeutic drugs in the absence of any side effects appear promising towards chronic wounds healing.


Literature survey reveals that numerous techniques have been implemented by researchers in the past to solve the CM problem. A major force behind the present work is to design a novel technique to solve the CM problem. Most traditional optimization techniques do not function admirably for the issues with nonlinearity and multimodality. Current pattern is to utilize naturepropelled metaheuristic algorithms to handle such difficulties, and it has been demonstrated that metaheuristics are exceptionally productive. FFA is inspired from natural behavior of fireflies. Unlike other algorithms, a firefly works individually and tries to find the best position for itself in consideration with its current position as well as the position of other fireflies. Hence, it moves from the local minima and finds the global minima in less number of iterations. Apart from the self improving process within the current space, the FFA also includes the improvement among its own space from the previous stages. Robustness and high convergence rate make this algorithm most suitable to use for such kind of optimization problems [25] .

Robustness and high convergence rate make this algorithm most suitable to use for such kind of optimization problems.


As we explained before, our STU model in equation (2.6) corresponds to the seven moduli case where T 1 = T 2 = T 3 and U 1 = U 2 = U 3 are identified. Such a seven moduli setup is particularly interesting with regard to the CMB B-mode targets [58, 59] . We plan to investigate the seven moduli case (KKLT) 7 in detail in the future.

Such a seven moduli setup is particularly interesting with regard to the CMB B-mode targets.


Several human studies reported that WR acted as a neuroprotectant in that it reduced the neurotoxic side effects of cisplatin (Glover et al. 1989; Kemp et al. 1996; Mollman et al. 1988) . At least one study did not see such an effect however (Gelmon et al. 1999) . These conflicting findings suggest that more research on WR's neuroprotectant and neurotoxic properties need to be conducted. Perhaps WR acts as a neuroprotectant at relatively moderate doses but is a neurotoxicant at high doses.

Several human studies reported that WR acted as a neuroprotectant in that it reduced the neurotoxic side effects of cisplatin.

At least one study did not see such an effect however.


CAES technology refers to storing energy in the form of high pressure compressed air during the periods of low electrical energy demand and then releasing the stored energy during the high demand periods. CAES facilities exist in multiple scales, with long storage duration, moderate response time and good part-load performance [6, 7, 9] . So far, there are a few successful industrial implementations of large-scale CAES plants serving wind power generation. For instance, after the world first commercialized Huntorf CAES plant started operation, its mandate was updated to include the buffering against the intermittence of wind energy production in Northern Germany [9] . Also, the developing advanced adiabatic CAES demonstration project -ADELE by RWE Power and others aims to store large amounts of electrical energy through CAES and thermal storage concepts; ADELE plans to operate with a wind farm, with a storage capacity of 360 MW h and no CO 2 emissions in a full cycle [11, 12] .

CAES facilities exist in multiple scales, with long storage duration, moderate response time and good part-load performance.

For instance, after the world first commercialized Huntorf CAES plant started operation, its mandate was updated to include the buffering against the intermittence of wind energy production in Northern Germany.

Also, the developing advanced adiabatic CAES demonstration project -ADELE by RWE Power and others aims to store large amounts of electrical energy through CAES and thermal storage concepts; ADELE plans to operate with a wind farm, with a storage capacity of 360 MW h and no CO 2 emissions in a full cycle.


Synthesis of INPs was ascertained by monitoring alterations in the peak areas of caffeine (275 nm) and polyphenols (205 nm) present in tea solution. This was realized that areas of the peaks are departed by adding the solution of FeSO 4 . It established the synthesis of iron NPs. It was concluded that caffeine/polyphenols of tea extract formed INPs owing to their capping and reducing features (Hoag et al. 2009; Shahwan et al. 2011; Huang et al. 2014) . The INPs images taken by FESEM were indicative of spherical shape having 40-50 nm diameter ( Fig. 1) . XRD spectra showed two peaks at 25°h of FeOOH [iron(III) oxide-hydroxide] and at 29°h of Fe 2 O 3 (maghemite) (Fig. 2 ). This was remarkable to observe that the peaks vanished after the impregnation of INPs with 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide. This was owing to 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride reaction with INPs. This was indicative of the preparation of functionalized INPs.

It was concluded that caffeine/polyphenols of tea extract formed INPs owing to their capping and reducing features.


Care home residents are a vulnerable group and high mortality has been reported in nursing homes in a number of countries [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] . Although, there have been large studies in the USA, there are few studies in the UK and no national studies in England and Wales [5] . The largest UK study to date is from Northern Ireland and uses census data that are limited in their measurements of clinical characteristics [6] . This paucity of studies reflects the limited information available on UK care homes residents in routine health data sources.

Care home residents are a vulnerable group and high mortality has been reported in nursing homes in a number of countries.

Although, there have been large studies in the USA, there are few studies in the UK and no national studies in England and Wales.

The largest UK study to date is from Northern Ireland and uses census data that are limited in their measurements of clinical characteristics.


The need for tactile displays is motivated by their potential applications in a wide range of fields such as the entertainment industry (e.g. computer paddles), the medical world (e.g. virtual surgery training, remote surgery), sensory substitution systems (e.g. displays for the blinds), e-commerce (e.g. remote sensing of a material via the internet), the research world (e.g. study of mechanoreceptors), and many more. This explains why many research groups have a great interest on the design of practical tactile display [1] . There are five main approaches to tactile display technology. These are visual, pneumatic, electro-tactile, neuromuscular stimulations and vibro-tactile. In a visual display, the status of touch of the slave fingers is indicated by the appearance of an icon or via displaying the slave fingertip forces, digitally or graphically to the user. A pneumatics approach uses air jets, air pockets or inflatable bladders to provide touch feedback cues to the operator. The electro-tactile stimulation method provides electric pulses, of appropriate width and frequency. The neuromuscular stimulation approach provides the signals directly to the primary cortex of the operator's brain. Finally, the vibro-tactile approaches use vibrating pins, voice coils, or piezoelectric crystals to provide tickling sensation to the human operator's skin to signal the touch. The choice of the technology must be guided by such factors as the requirement in term of force and frequency, the cost, complexity, weight, comfort, noise, power requirement, invasiveness and the extent of liability of the device.

This explains why many research groups have a great interest on the design of practical tactile display.


Magnetic micro-actuators have been fabricated for many years and, until now; they were realized simply as scaled-down versions of their macroscopic counterparts, such as electromagnetic motors, magnetometers and sensors. Their electromagnetic interaction is mainly due to the use of external micro-coils or micro-permanent magnets [4, 5] . It is well known, however, that it is a challenging, time consuming and expensive task to construct micro-coils using classical methods, or to hand-machine large pieces of permanent magnetic material into micro-permanent magnets, for the purposes of constructing micro-devices. In this study, we propose a prototype of vibrotactile display design with fabrication accomplished in a continuous batch process, without addition of steps such as manual assembly.

Their electromagnetic interaction is mainly due to the use of external micro-coils or micro-permanent magnets.


In addition, the peaks of 1456.35, 1372.12, 1159.54, and 720 cm −1 corresponded to the CH 2 bending, -C-O stretching vibration, and -CH 2 bending (cis -CH=CH-bending). The FT-IR spectrum after ablation of the copper plate is demonstrated in Figure 6 (b). In the synthesis of Cu-NPs in walnut oil, the peaks at 3006.39, 2922.38, 1745.67, 1456.57, 1372.14, 1158.87, and 722.01 cm −1 confirm the stability of the molecular structure and functional groups. Also, the peaks appearing in 360 cm −1 are related to Cu-NPs [25] . The tail of the carbonyl band capped the Cu-NPs through the electron transfer from the carboxylic group to Cu-NPs; as a result, the motion of molecules was impeded inside the particular area and the entropy decreased [26, 27] . This proves that a long hydrocarbon chain prevents the agglomeration of Cu-NPs.

Also, the peaks appearing in 360 cm −1 are related to Cu-NPs.

The tail of the carbonyl band capped the Cu-NPs through the electron transfer from the carboxylic group to Cu-NPs; as a result, the motion of molecules was impeded inside the particular area and the entropy decreased.


Figures 9(a) and 9(b) show the variation of real and imaginary parts of refractive index of nanofluid. Consistent with the Kramers-Kroning relationship, the real part of the refractive index decreased as a consequence of an increase in the imaginary part [28] . The volume fraction of Cu-NPs changed from 0.0257 × 10 −5 to 1.26 × 10 −5 , so the scattering cross section of nanofluid increased (Figure 4(b) ); therefore, the absorption and the imaginary part of nanofluid heightened. The experimental results are summarized in Table 1 .

Consistent with the Kramers-Kroning relationship, the real part of the refractive index decreased as a consequence of an increase in the imaginary part.


At first, the Cu-NPs formed through phase transition and nucleation; hence, crystals of the Cu cluster expanded from released copper atoms, and the fatty acid chain of walnut oil capped the Cu-NPs. Afterward, the laser beam interacted with the target and the nanoparticles which were released in nanofluid and the Cu-NPs were ablated and broken to a small size ( Figure 5(c) ). Therefore, the particle diameter decreased as the ablation time increased (Figure 4(b) ) [24] .

Therefore, the particle diameter decreased as the ablation time increased (Figure 4(b) ).


Walnut oil contains oleic (18:1), linoleic (18:2) , and linolenic (18:3) acids and palmitic acid (c16:1), while concentrations of other fatty acids such as myristic acid, palmitoleic acid, eicosenoic acid, and stearic acid are very low. However, walnut oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B-1, B-2, and B-3, vitamin E, and niacin, and the LDL (bad cholesterol) ratio to HDL (good cholesterol) is lower than that with other oils; hence, it is healthier and more helpful than other oils in reducing the risk of coronary artery disease [18] . Walnut oil is used in cooking and skin care because the omega-3 fatty acids it contains have high permeation in human skin and have become popular ingredients in natural skin care products [19] .

However, walnut oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B-1, B-2, and B-3, vitamin E, and niacin, and the LDL (bad cholesterol) ratio to HDL (good cholesterol) is lower than that with other oils; hence, it is healthier and more helpful than other oils in reducing the risk of coronary artery disease.

Walnut oil is used in cooking and skin care because the omega-3 fatty acids it contains have high permeation in human skin and have become popular ingredients in natural skin care products.


The proliferation of research into language strategies in recent years has been perhaps due to the appealing promises such research carries to all parties involved in the business of teaching and learning foreign or second languages. Research promises learners ways that would lead them to success in achieving their goal of learning a target language (Oxford, 1990) . It promises teachers ways that would help them in shifting the responsibility of their students' success off their shoulders onto those of their students (Holec, 1987) . Moreover, it promises administrators a path to the success of their language courses (Oxford & Burry-Stock, 1995) .

Research promises learners ways that would lead them to success in achieving their goal of learning a target language.

It promises teachers ways that would help them in shifting the responsibility of their students' success off their shoulders onto those of their students.

Moreover, it promises administrators a path to the success of their language courses.


The results indicating the tendency of less proficient students to use affective strategies in order to help them deal with tension related to learning a foreign language, reopens the issue of anxiety and its relationship to language acquisition. It poses questions regarding the relationship among anxiety, language learning, and learning strategies and whether or not the relationship is linear or cyclical in nature. In other words, would a student with limited proficiency exhibit more anxiety about his/her language learning and would this lead to more or less use of strategies? Would more use of strategies lead to less anxiety? Would use of certain strategies more than others lessen anxiety or increase it and would this increase or decrease learning? These questions call for further research in order to establish possible relationships between strategy use and a host of psychological variables such as anxiety, self-efficacy, and self-confidence (MacIntyre, 1994) .

These questions call for further research in order to establish possible relationships between strategy use and a host of psychological variables such as anxiety, self-efficacy, and self-confidence.


LGE of LA has also been used as a prognostic tool for identifying patients with AF recurrence [25] . Since 3D MR angiography (MRA) offers a good visualization of the atrial wall, an MRA-driven segmentation can be employed to facilitate the segmentation of the atrial wall and enhanced areas in 3D LA LGE [24] [25] [26] . Therefore, this approach requires fusion of MRA and LGE datasets. However, registration of non-ECG gated MRA to ECGtriggered LGE is challenging [24, 25] . Therefore, an ECGtriggered 3D MRA could potentially improve the fusion of MRA and LGE datasets.

LGE of LA has also been used as a prognostic tool for identifying patients with AF recurrence.

Since 3D MR angiography (MRA) offers a good visualization of the atrial wall, an MRA-driven segmentation can be employed to facilitate the segmentation of the atrial wall and enhanced areas in 3D LA LGE.

However, registration of non-ECG gated MRA to ECGtriggered LGE is challenging.


Various organic diluents such as aliphatic/aromatic hydrocarbons, ketones, and high alcohols are used as media for dissolving the extractant. The interaction efficiency of organic diluents is mainly based on their polarity and hydrogen bonding affinity. They have a significant effect on extraction efficiency by providing solvation through hydrogen bonding and specific interaction with the extractable complexes. Their interactions can increase the hydrophobicity of the extractable complexes and become more stable in the organic phase, which results ultimately in the enhancement of extraction. Due to the important role of organic diluents in the extraction processes, studies on the aspects of their equilibrium data, kinetics of extraction behavior, and thermodynamic models are fundamentally required in order to develop and design extraction systems [11] . In this work, various organic diluents were used to dilute TODGA. The aim of this work was to achieve good selectivity between the REEs and other exogenes in the leachate, and to examine the influence of diluents on selectivity of the REEs from one another. After extraction, stripping was performed to achieve a pure stream containing only the REEs.

Due to the important role of organic diluents in the extraction processes, studies on the aspects of their equilibrium data, kinetics of extraction behavior, and thermodynamic models are fundamentally required in order to develop and design extraction systems.


A high proportion of North American women experience low sexual desire, difficulties with orgasm and painful and un-pleasurable intercourse (Pujols et al., 2010) . The National Health and Social Life Survey, a well-designed, large population-based study on adults ranging from ages 18 to 59, found a high overall prevalence of female sexual dysfunction in US women (Goldstein et al., 2004) . Sexual dissatisfaction was associated with sexual dysfunction, and women who reported greater distress over sexual problems also reported greater sexual dissatisfaction (King et al., 2007) .

A high proportion of North American women experience low sexual desire, difficulties with orgasm and painful and un-pleasurable intercourse.

The National Health and Social Life Survey, a well-designed, large population-based study on adults ranging from ages 18 to 59, found a high overall prevalence of female sexual dysfunction in US women.

Sexual dissatisfaction was associated with sexual dysfunction, and women who reported greater distress over sexual problems also reported greater sexual dissatisfaction.


The results of the self-reported SF-36 were not influenced by LP or placebo. Results from a previous study, in middle aged women, showed that while serious illness, employment and marital status were significant predictors of quality of life, hormone replacement therapy use and menopausal status were not (O'Dea et al., 1999) . In a recent placebo-controlled double-blind study in Malaysian women between the ages of 40 and 60 years, a water extract of LP reduced anxiety levels by 55% compared to placebo (unpublished data). In the current study, the high baseline SF-36 and FSFI scores may have limited the response to the quality of life measures.

Results from a previous study, in middle aged women, showed that while serious illness, employment and marital status were significant predictors of quality of life, hormone replacement therapy use and menopausal status were not.


The link between cardiovascular disease (CVD) and sexual dysfunction in males is well-established; mild or moderate erectile dysfunction is much more common in patients with CVD (Archer et al., 2005) . In contrast, sexual dysfunction in women with CVD has received limited attention (Steinke, 2010) . Research has shown that the mechanism of clitoral engorgement is very similar to penile erection, and thus may also be adversely affected by CVD (Steinke, 2010) . Neuropathy or vascular disease resulting from CVD risk factors such as hypertension, smoking, diabetes or hyperlipidemia are known organic causes to female sexual dysfunction (Archer et al., 2005) .

The link between cardiovascular disease (CVD) and sexual dysfunction in males is well-established; mild or moderate erectile dysfunction is much more common in patients with CVD.

In contrast, sexual dysfunction in women with CVD has received limited attention.

Research has shown that the mechanism of clitoral engorgement is very similar to penile erection, and thus may also be adversely affected by CVD.

Neuropathy or vascular disease resulting from CVD risk factors such as hypertension, smoking, diabetes or hyperlipidemia are known organic causes to female sexual dysfunction.


The impact of transaction costs, as shown in the literature, is significant in the study of momentum (Lesmond et al., 2004) . In order to ensure the scientific rigor of the results, transaction costs have also been included in our analysis. Our study includes both zero trading cost strategies to identify the theoretical profits achievable, and secondly includes market stated transaction costs to identify if these profits are achievable in practical terms.

The impact of transaction costs, as shown in the literature, is significant in the study of momentum.


The Norwegian Stroke in the Young Study (NOR-SYS) is a prospective three-generation study with longitudinal follow-up design. NOR-SYS combines medical history and RF ascertainment by standardized questionnaires with clinical, laboratory, neuroradiological, cardiological and complex ultrasonographic data [8] . This analysis contains data from 150 patients and 84 controls included in NOR-SYS between September 2010 and June 2012.

NOR-SYS combines medical history and RF ascertainment by standardized questionnaires with clinical, laboratory, neuroradiological, cardiological and complex ultrasonographic data.


The prevalence of anaemia, leucopenia and thrombopenia in this study variably concurs and contrasts with the findings of similar studies [4, 22, 23] . Possible reasons for the differences of occurrence of these cytopenias in these different studies are the cut-off values used for anaemia and leucopenia, the local prevalence of parasitic infections such as malaria or hook-worms, variations in local nutritional patterns or the number of female participants of the respective studies. There is also a racial disparity, with Africans having lower leucocyte counts. Although all HIV infected patients may have a peripheral blood cytopenia, patients with advanced disease and low CD4 counts (Tables 4 and 5) are more likely to develop them, as reported in several studies [8, [24] [25] [26] . This is important for caregivers at the HIV clinic, because some drugs like zidovudine and cotrimoxazole are myelotoxic and should not be administered to patients with severe cytopenias, thus all HIV patients, especially those with advanced disease, should systematically do a full blood count before initiation of antiretroviral therapy.

The prevalence of anaemia, leucopenia and thrombopenia in this study variably concurs and contrasts with the findings of similar studies.

Although all HIV infected patients may have a peripheral blood cytopenia, patients with advanced disease and low CD4 counts (Tables 4 and 5) are more likely to develop them, as reported in several studies.


Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have become increasingly popular for tissue regeneration because of their ability to differentiate into many types of tissues while suppressing immune responses and promoting vasculogenesis [1] [2] [3] . Understanding the function and capabilities of these cells is partially dependant on the ability to genetically modify the cells and evaluate associated responses. Genetic modification is commonly performed via chemical transfection or viral infection. Chemical transfection of genetic material is achieved using polycationic polymers or liposomes. This method is inexpensive and easy to implement, however transfection efficiencies are very poor for stem cells, including MSCs, and inefficient integration into the genome makes the generation of stable transformants exceedingly difficult [4] . Viral infection is an effective means of gene transfer for mesenchymal stem cells, however vector constructs larger than ~11 kb are poorly packaged and thus poorly transferred. In addition, the random nature of genomic integration of retroviral and lentiviral vectors can be cytopathic or cause unwanted modification and mutation of the cell genome [5] .

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have become increasingly popular for tissue regeneration because of their ability to differentiate into many types of tissues while suppressing immune responses and promoting vasculogenesis.

This method is inexpensive and easy to implement, however transfection efficiencies are very poor for stem cells, including MSCs, and inefficient integration into the genome makes the generation of stable transformants exceedingly difficult.

In addition, the random nature of genomic integration of retroviral and lentiviral vectors can be cytopathic or cause unwanted modification and mutation of the cell genome.


Following electroporation, MSCs exposed to electrical stimulation have been shown to maintain the capacity to differentiate into chrondogenic, adipogenic, and osteogenic lineages [5, 11] . Yet unclear however, is whether electroporation can initiate unintended differentiation. Others have shown that a non-invasive electric field (2 V/cm), can increase the tendency of the membrane of MSCs to be deformed elastically with an applied force and as a consequence a phenotype resembling that of osteoblasts can be induced [13] . In addition, the application of an electric field can facilitate osteogenic differentiation in MSCs and alter Ca 2+ dynamics [14] . Finally, when applied to embryonic stem cells, an electric field assists in cardiogenic differentiation [15] .

Following electroporation, MSCs exposed to electrical stimulation have been shown to maintain the capacity to differentiate into chrondogenic, adipogenic, and osteogenic lineages.

Others have shown that a non-invasive electric field (2 V/cm), can increase the tendency of the membrane of MSCs to be deformed elastically with an applied force and as a consequence a phenotype resembling that of osteoblasts can be induced.

In addition, the application of an electric field can facilitate osteogenic differentiation in MSCs and alter Ca 2+ dynamics.

Finally, when applied to embryonic stem cells, an electric field assists in cardiogenic differentiation.


Collagen is the fibrous protein that contributes to the unique physiological functions of connective tissues in skins, tendons, bones, cartilages, and so forth and is associated with toughness of mammalian muscle [1] [2] [3] . The structural unit of collagen is tropocollagen, a rod-shaped protein consisting of three polypeptides units (called chains) intertwined to form a triple-helical structure [4] . Each polypeptide chain forms a left-handed helix and consists of repeating triplets (Gly--) n , where and are, with a high possibility, proline or hydroxyproline [5] .

Collagen is the fibrous protein that contributes to the unique physiological functions of connective tissues in skins, tendons, bones, cartilages, and so forth and is associated with toughness of mammalian muscle.

The structural unit of collagen is tropocollagen, a rod-shaped protein consisting of three polypeptides units (called chains) intertwined to form a triple-helical structure.

Each polypeptide chain forms a left-handed helix and consists of repeating triplets (Gly--) n , where and are, with a high possibility, proline or hydroxyproline.


Our expectation is that the historical and reputation contexts have an important inflammatory impact on the decision to go to war. That is, when states engage in crisis behavior within a context rich with direct and indirect historical conflict, the onset of war is more likely. We test this hypothesis using semi-parametric hazard analysis on data for war onset covering all international dyads from 1817-2000, as well as a sample containing only politically relevant dyads (Maoz & Russett, 1993) . Our results indicate that a direct history of conflict within a dyad increases the odds of war onset considerably. Additionally, the odds of war onset increase when either state within the dyad has a reputation for being conflict-prone.

We test this hypothesis using semi-parametric hazard analysis on data for war onset covering all international dyads from 1817-2000, as well as a sample containing only politically relevant dyads.


The average glandular dose for the breast simulated by 4.5 cm of PMMA was measured and calculated for each system using methods described in the European guidelines [10, 11] . The air kerma (K) was measured with a Piranha multimeter (manufactured by RTI Electronics AB) for the same exposure parameters, which would be chosen by the automatic exposure control (AEC) system for 4.5 cm PMMA phantom. The average glandular dose was calculated as: MGD = K·g·c·s where g, c, and s are factors characterizing beam quality and the breast. The doses were compared with the maximum acceptable dose level (2.5 mGy) and with the achievable level (2.0 mGy) [10, 11] .

The average glandular dose for the breast simulated by 4.5 cm of PMMA was measured and calculated for each system using methods described in the European guidelines.

The doses were compared with the maximum acceptable dose level (2.5 mGy) and with the achievable level (2.0 mGy).


As in other studies in the literature, the present work has mapped a large number of QTL for all traits, and a large number of QTL had significant interaction with the environment (Mihaljevic et al. 2005; Lima et al. 2006) . The varying number of detected QTL and the lack of coincidence among them suggest that the population genetic background influences QTL mapping and that the tester influences the mapping analysis directly. Thus, indicating the occurrence of QTL 9 Tester interaction, probably due to effects of tester specific alleles (Beavis et al. 1994; Groh et al. 1998; Lu et al. 2003; Mihaljevic et al. 2005; Peng et al. 2013) .

As in other studies in the literature, the present work has mapped a large number of QTL for all traits, and a large number of QTL had significant interaction with the environment.

Thus, indicating the occurrence of QTL 9 Tester interaction, probably due to effects of tester specific alleles.


The pH stability allows us to determine the time response of bare DNTT FETs to ammonia exposure. For this purpose, the EGOFETs were exposed to a 10 mM ammonia solution. Upon injection of the ammonia into the buffer solution, the drain current dropped rapidly within 1 s, and stabilized within several seconds (Fig. 3 a) . This response is orders of magnitude faster than our previous devices that used a parylene-C encapsulation. Since our previous design uses also a parylene-C gate dielectric, we fabricated for comparison a device that has a parylene-C gate dielectric omitting the parylene-C capping. This device does not perform as good as the SU-8 device, i.e. the reduction in drain current is less pronounced and the response time is slower (Fig. 3  a) . We observed that the lift-off process used promotes a pronounced DNTT film morphology of discrete islands of typically 100 nm lateral size on SU-8 ( Fig. 3 b, supporting info Fig. S4 ). These islands percolate only rather late during growth, similar to growth of pentacene on low surface-energy polyimides [41] . In turn, the DNTT film on SU-8 has a rather open surface structure compared to DNTT films on parylene, which show a dense grainy texture (Fig. 3 c) . A large surface is beneficial for OFET based gas sensors, and methods to increase the surface artificially by lateral structuring have been developed [19] . Here, the DNTT growth was apparently optimized by the surface modification during lift off, which favored Vollmer Weber (3D) growth and boosts response behavior.

These islands percolate only rather late during growth, similar to growth of pentacene on low surface-energy polyimides.

A large surface is beneficial for OFET based gas sensors, and methods to increase the surface artificially by lateral structuring have been developed.


Here, the ammonia concentration profile n(x,t) propagates from a constant reservoir with concentration n 0 into the material layer. The diffusion in the parylene-C layer after time t and depth x is controlled by the diffusion constant D according to relation (2) . For the data analysis in Fig. 3b , the assumption is made that the OFET current reduction nðL; tÞ scales with the concentration of ammonia at the organic semiconductor interface (x ¼ L), according to the idea that current reduction is caused by hole trapping due to ammonia intercalation. Thus, the drain current I(t) is given by IðtÞ ¼ I 0 À nðL; tÞ. Within this model, the slow response time for the thin capping device can be explained by an diffusion constant of D ¼ 9 $ 10 À13 cm 2 /s for ammonia in parylene-C, which is in agreement with our previous results [16] . This confirms that even a thin film of parylene-C acts as an efficient diffusion barrier for ammonia slowing down the response time considerably.

The diffusion in the parylene-C layer after time t and depth x is controlled by the diffusion constant D according to relation.

Thus, the drain current I(t) is given by IðtÞ ¼ I 0 À nðL; tÞ. Within this model, the slow response time for the thin capping device can be explained by an diffusion constant of D ¼ 9 $ 10 À13 cm 2 /s for ammonia in parylene-C, which is in agreement with our previous results.


Next, we test the influence of a thin parylene-C encapsulation on response time. For this purpose, a transistor with an 86 nm parylene-C encapsulation layer was fabricated. For this device, the drain current reduction after ammonia injection occurs on two timescales, initially a fast drop within 1 s as observed for the bare device and subsequently a much slower response (Fig. 4) . The initial fast response may be due to pinholes in the parylene-C film. The slow response with a characteristic timescale of several 100 s is apparently caused by the encapsulation layer acting like a barrier. The passage of the ammonia through the parylene-C layer can be modeled by a 1D diffusion process [16, 37] .

The passage of the ammonia through the parylene-C layer can be modeled by a 1D diffusion process.


Initially, our intention was to employ the parylene-C encapsulation as a semipermeable hydrophobic membrane keeping ions away from the semiconductor surface while neutral ammonia can pass. In view of the electrochemical stability of DNTT, this seems obsolete, since the DNTT layer itself is hydrophobic enough to exclude the ions from the semiconducting layer. Another benefit of the parylene-C layer is that it can be plasma activated in order to covalently bind urease for enzymatic detection of urea. Further, encapsulation helps to stabilize EGOFETs output in solutions of physiological strength [35] . Given the observation that the parylene-C coating slows down detection, other ultrathin hydrophobic barriers, such as lipid bilayers, should be explored for surface functionalization [35, 43, 44] .

Further, encapsulation helps to stabilize EGOFETs output in solutions of physiological strength.

Given the observation that the parylene-C coating slows down detection, other ultrathin hydrophobic barriers, such as lipid bilayers, should be explored for surface functionalization.


In the AdS/CFT case we have considered reflection from both the 'horizontal' and 'vertical' D5-branes, constructed the corresponding achiral twisted Yangian, and verified that this is indeed the hidden symmetry of the known boundary S-matrices [16] . In the vertical case we have explained how these naturally factorize into a composition of three events: the achiral reflection of the right rep of the bulk magnon, bulk scattering of two left reps of the same magnon, and finally achiral reflection of the left rep (mnemonically 'right-bulk-left', or equivalently, via the Yang-Baxter property, 'left-bulk-right'). This achiral reflection is described by a new κ-matrix, non-trivial only for non-singlet boundaries and thus, in the AdS/CFT context, for the 'vertical' D5-brane only. For the bosonic PCM it might be interesting to construct the full boundary theory, with its set of non-singlet boundary bound states and their associated scattering theory.

In the AdS/CFT case we have considered reflection from both the 'horizontal' and 'vertical' D5-branes, constructed the corresponding achiral twisted Yangian, and verified that this is indeed the hidden symmetry of the known boundary S-matrices.