During routine acoustic cruises for the assessment of fish abundance in the Argentine Sea, large-scale, plankton-like scattering layers occupying thousands of square nautical miles are commonly observed with echosounders. Net sampling revealed that many of these concentrations are composed mainly of gelatinous zooplankters of large individual size, which aggregate in dense concentrations. As an example, dense aggregations of the salp I. zonaria are capable of producing scattering layers at 38 kHz, at levels high enough to obscure the echo recordings of anchovy schools (Engraulis anchoita) in the Río de la Plata surfacesalinity front (Mianzan et al., 2001a) .

As an example, dense aggregations of the salp I. zonaria are capable of producing scattering layers at 38 kHz, at levels high enough to obscure the echo recordings of anchovy schools (Engraulis anchoita) in the Río de la Plata surfacesalinity front.


Not only flue gases but also solid residues from wood combustions need to be carefully managed. The solid residues (bottom residues and fly ashes) from wood combustion can be reutilized as soil improvement material, in construction of roads and as supplementary material such as concrete production or filler material or must be disposed of in waste dumps (Sinkkonen et al., 1995; Wunderli et al., 2000) . PCDD/F contents in the multicyclone ashes of the salt-laden wood steam boilers could range from 0.0978 to 20.9 ng I-TEQ/g (Luthe et al., 1998) . Consequently, PCDD/F contents in the ashes from wood combustions must be evaluated before further considering their reutilizations.

The solid residues (bottom residues and fly ashes) from wood combustion can be reutilized as soil improvement material, in construction of roads and as supplementary material such as concrete production or filler material or must be disposed of in waste dumps.

PCDD/F contents in the multicyclone ashes of the salt-laden wood steam boilers could range from 0.0978 to 20.9 ng I-TEQ/g.


Fates of PAHs, PCDD/Fs and PBDD/Fs in the thermal processes have been investigated by the previous studies (Kuo et al., 2003; Lai et al., 2007; Li et al., 2007c) . As yet, very little is known about the fates of PCDD/Fs in the woodchip-fuelled boilers. In this study, the stack flue gases and the ashes in different units of a woodchip-fuelled boiler are sampled to investigate their PCDD/F characteristics. Furthermore, the formations and depletions of PCDD/Fs in the boiler system were also clarified. With better understanding their PCDD/F fate and distribution, appropriate control strategies to decrease PCDD/Fs emitted from woodchip-fuelled boilers can be adopted when utilizing the renewable biomass energy.

Fates of PAHs, PCDD/Fs and PBDD/Fs in the thermal processes have been investigated by the previous studies.


A comparison between the OceanMAPS and the temperature sensors on the IMOS Maria Island reference station (located near the north-east boundary) shows no persistent bias in the open ocean boundary conditions (not shown). Apart from the GHRSST data, there are no observations near the south-west boundary. However, the time-averaged RMSD along the southern and western boundary are 0.2°C which is substantially less than the 1°C bias seen in the interior of the domain. Futhermore, given OceanM-APS is a data-assimilating ocean model, persistent over estimation of the temperature is unlikely and has not been reported. Without a richer observational dataset to use for model calibration it is difficult to separate the relative contribution of errors in the net heat flux or parametrisation of the distribution of shortwave radiation. There is no evidence that the surface forcings derived from the MesoLAPS product are seasonally biased (Vincent et al., 2008) . If the bulk heat flux formulation were itself biased, then this would manifest as a persistent rather than seasonal bias. This suggests that the most likely source of the seasonal over-estimation of temperature is the shortwave parametrisation.

There is no evidence that the surface forcings derived from the MesoLAPS product are seasonally biased.


Rivers are continuous ecosystems with longitudinal organization, characterized by a space-temporal heterogeneity and influenced by a great number of factors, which impedes its study (Townsed, 1996) . The heterogeneous both spatial and temporal variations of these water bodies have direct influence on the dynamic of nutrients (Hildrew, 1996) . The physical and biological properties of the lotic systems reflect the climate and geology features, the basin particularities, the surrounding vegetation and the anthropogenic activities (Santos & Rocha, 1998) .

Rivers are continuous ecosystems with longitudinal organization, characterized by a space-temporal heterogeneity and influenced by a great number of factors, which impedes its study.

The heterogeneous both spatial and temporal variations of these water bodies have direct influence on the dynamic of nutrients.

The physical and biological properties of the lotic systems reflect the climate and geology features, the basin particularities, the surrounding vegetation and the anthropogenic activities.


Land use evolution in the Salado River Basin, first involved a change from grazing cattle systems to a mixed crop-cattle production, and more recently, to intensive and technological agrarian development. The human impact increase in this basin is determined by the population growth, the spilt of urban and industrial effluents, the infrastructure constructions (riverbed modifications, canalizations, and drainage changes) and other associated constructions (road systems). These impacts alter the dynamic, biodiversity and uses of the river, its associated ecosystems (flood plains, wetlands) and the marine coastal ecosystem where the river flows (Conzonno et al., 2001 (Conzonno et al., , 2002 Volpedo et al., 2005) .

These impacts alter the dynamic, biodiversity and uses of the river, its associated ecosystems (flood plains, wetlands) and the marine coastal ecosystem where the river flows.


Important historical documents, manuscripts, maps in libraries and archives suffer very serious damage as a result of the destructive effects of different kind of inks [1] [2] [3] . The reasons for this destruction are not fully understood yet [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] . The desire to protect the paper in ancient books and archival materials from degradation necessitates the development of effective treatment methods [10, 11] . However, hundreds of recipes for ink have been published over centuries [12] [13] [14] . A great variety of ink recipes and the variety of visual aspects of manuscripts suggest that many side effects could occur and contribute to different aspects of paper degradation [15] [16] [17] [18] [19] [20] .

Important historical documents, manuscripts, maps in libraries and archives suffer very serious damage as a result of the destructive effects of different kind of inks.

The reasons for this destruction are not fully understood yet.

The desire to protect the paper in ancient books and archival materials from degradation necessitates the development of effective treatment methods.

However, hundreds of recipes for ink have been published over centuries.

A great variety of ink recipes and the variety of visual aspects of manuscripts suggest that many side effects could occur and contribute to different aspects of paper degradation.


The full superconformal partial wave expansion can be found by lifting from the bosonic case where the expansion is known [42] . Using this we are able to perform a CPWA on both the free theory and the large N theory which is dual to gauged supergravity via the AdS/CFT correspondence. In particular we find the first 1/N 3 corrections to the dimensions of all operators in the OPE of two energy-momentum multiplets.

The full superconformal partial wave expansion can be found by lifting from the bosonic case where the expansion is known.


Women were eligible for the study and assigned to one of three study groups based on their gestational age at abortion-seeking. Women presenting for abortion within two weeks under a facility's gestational age limit and receiving an abortion were assigned to the Near Limit Abortion Group; women presenting for abortion up to three weeks over the limit and denied abortion at that facility were assigned to the Turnaway Group. Near Limit Abortion versus Turnaway is the main comparison in this study. For every Turnaway, we recruited two women for the Near Limit Abortion Group and also one woman receiving an abortion in the first trimester for the First Trimester Abortion Group. The First Trimester Abortion Group was included to assess how the experiences of women in the Near Limit Group compared to the more typical experience of abortion in the U.S., where 90% of abortions occur in the first trimester [17] .

The First Trimester Abortion Group was included to assess how the experiences of women in the Near Limit Group compared to the more typical experience of abortion in the U.S., where 90% of abortions occur in the first trimester.


Mitigating the effects of fiber nonlinearities is one of the key requirements for achieving higher channel capacities in coherent optical transmission systems. These nonlinearities limit achievable transmission distances, and therefore, nonlinearity compensation becomes crucial for 400 G/1 T transmission systems [1] . Digital back propagation (DBP) has been proposed for intra-channel nonlinearity compensation [2] . DBP normally requires multiple computation steps per fiber span and at least two samples per symbol for optimum nonlinearity compensation all of which can lead to high computational complexity in long haul dispersion-unmanaged fiber optic systems [3] . Alternatively, recently proposed PB-NLC techniques may compensate accumulated nonlinear effects with only one computation step and these techniques can be implemented with one sample per symbol [4] . However, practical implementation of this technique is limited due to the excessively large number of perturbation terms. This is especially true in dispersionunmanaged links where numerous perturbation terms have to be considered due to the long dispersion induced delay spread of the pulses. While quantization of the perturbation reduces the computational complexity, fewer quantization levels leads to reduced performance. Recently, MMSE-based quantization schemes demonstrated the possibility of using only three distinct levels for perturbation coefficients. However, these levels are determined offline using an exhaustive search approach [5] . These days, with fast network expansion and adaptation of the dynamic optical networking, there is a possibility for numerous alternate paths for the propagating signal, where each path may bear a different set of perturbation coefficients. Thus, identification of the correct set of perturbation coefficients becomes a very difficult task in meshed optical networks.

These nonlinearities limit achievable transmission distances, and therefore, nonlinearity compensation becomes crucial for 400 G/1 T transmission systems.

Digital back propagation (DBP) has been proposed for intra-channel nonlinearity compensation.

DBP normally requires multiple computation steps per fiber span and at least two samples per symbol for optimum nonlinearity compensation all of which can lead to high computational complexity in long haul dispersion-unmanaged fiber optic systems.

Alternatively, recently proposed PB-NLC techniques may compensate accumulated nonlinear effects with only one computation step and these techniques can be implemented with one sample per symbol.

However, these levels are determined offline using an exhaustive search approach.


Low complexity adaptive nonlinear equalization algorithms are highly desirable for next generation agile and flexible rate fiber optic communication systems. To achieve this, we recently proposed a novel adaptive nonlinear equalizer [6] . In this paper, based on our previous work, we improve the performance of the quantized PB-NLC technique and reduce its computational complexity. To achieve this, we start with the regular calculations of the perturbation terms, employing low accuracy and large step size. After linear quantization of the perturbation coefficients, values in the middle of each interval are then used as starting points for the DD-LMS algorithm which is required in order to optimize and minimize the quantization error. Using this approach, with only five quantized terms, we show Q-factor improvement of 1.8 dB for 2560 km of SMF transmission, in comparison to the linear compensation only.

To achieve this, we recently proposed a novel adaptive nonlinear equalizer.


In the current investigation, we used a canonical correlation to examine the relationship between offender characteristics and criminal thinking. A canonical correlation is a statistical technique that allows an analysis of the relationship between two sets of variables and is similar to a multiple regression (Tabachnick & Fidell, 2001) . In a canonical correlation, the values on several variables (together as a set) are used to predict the values on several other variables (also together as a set). Because both sets consist of several variables, many combinations of the variables in one set may relate to many combinations of variables in the other set. Therefore, whereas one combination of variables is sufficient to predict a single variable in a multiple regression analysis, multiple combinations of variables in each set may significantly predict one another in a canonical correlation (Tabachnick & Fidell, 2001) .

A canonical correlation is a statistical technique that allows an analysis of the relationship between two sets of variables and is similar to a multiple regression.

Therefore, whereas one combination of variables is sufficient to predict a single variable in a multiple regression analysis, multiple combinations of variables in each set may significantly predict one another in a canonical correlation.


OAM can be imposed to FSO beams. Some of the free-space modes that can transport OAM are Bessel beams, Hermite-Bessel beams, helical Mathieu beams, and Laguerre-Gauss beams [1] , [3] - [7] . Laguerre-Gauss beams have been chosen, in many cases, for their simplicity of generation. Optical vortices with distinct integer topology (orbital momentum state) can be used to augment the data throughput and improve the bandwidth efficiency of indoor (e.g., data centers) and outdoor (e.g., terrestrial and satellite) optical wireless communication (OWC) links by allocating orthogonal channels that could simultaneously carry the information from different users, or to increment the dimensionality of a modulation constellation [8] - [11] .

OAM can be imposed to FSO beams.

Some of the free-space modes that can transport OAM are Bessel beams, Hermite-Bessel beams, helical Mathieu beams, and Laguerre-Gauss beams.

Optical vortices with distinct integer topology (orbital momentum state) can be used to augment the data throughput and improve the bandwidth efficiency of indoor (e.g., data centers) and outdoor (e.g., terrestrial and satellite) optical wireless communication (OWC) links by allocating orthogonal channels that could simultaneously carry the information from different users, or to increment the dimensionality of a modulation constellation.


Increasing the information throughput and reliability of optical communication linksVfiber-based and free-spaceVis one of the key aspects required to make this technology a suitable means to provide connectivity between high-speed networks or to deliver a bridge between wireless radiofrequency and long-haul optical networks, when other solutions are not attainable. By the same token, these aspects would also make free-space optical (FSO) links a competing solution for ground-to-satellite or inter-satellite communications. Increasing the photon efficiency by means of multidimensional modulation formats using all properties of optical beams is one way of achieving this goal. It has been proposed that beams carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM) can increase the information throughput in optical communications over unguided channels [2] . From the classical optics perspective, OAM is a property present in some optical beams that feature a helical wavefront. Such beams are usually denoted as vortices due to the phase discontinuity at their optical axis [3] . The phase discontinuity produces a dark central spot in the intensity profile. A vector normal to a vortex wavefront follows a spiral trajectory around the optical propagation axis. The momentum of a vortex field is proportional to the number of turns that this vector completes around the beam's axis after propagating a distance equal to one wavelength. This number is equal to the OAM state.

It has been proposed that beams carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM) can increase the information throughput in optical communications over unguided channels.

Such beams are usually denoted as vortices due to the phase discontinuity at their optical axis.

This number is equal to the OAM state.


Satellite missions devoted to the observation of the Earth as well as navigation satellites commonly use repeat ground track orbits [1] . With the development of civilian satellites technology, constellation composed of a number of satellites plays an important role in remote sensing [2] . The Earth observation missions often require the constant solar illumination, the same ground resolution, and small repeat cycles, which often results in the design of Repeat Sun-Synchronous Orbit (RSSO) satellites as the most suitable one. This kind of satellites allows the observation of a given region of the Earth at the same local time after a time interval [3, 4] . The approach to design repeat ground track orbit for the Earth observations (EO) is quite mature [5, 6] . As well, the RSSO satellites are also used for Mars observations [7] [8] [9] [10] .

Satellite missions devoted to the observation of the Earth as well as navigation satellites commonly use repeat ground track orbits.

With the development of civilian satellites technology, constellation composed of a number of satellites plays an important role in remote sensing.

This kind of satellites allows the observation of a given region of the Earth at the same local time after a time interval.

The approach to design repeat ground track orbit for the Earth observations (EO) is quite mature.

As well, the RSSO satellites are also used for Mars observations.


The present study employs direct numerical simulation to examine the twodimensional, viscous, compressible flow around a circular cylinder. In comparing flowfield characteristics, interesting similarities are shown between stable and unstable cases. In both regimes, it is found that increasing the freestream Mach number increases C d . This result is expected, and reflects results from other studies at higher Re (Lindsey 1937; Macha 1977) . For cases below the critical Reynolds number for two-dimensional shedding, it is found that compressibility effects elongate the wake and cause a small delay in flow separation. Likewise, for unstable cases, increasing the freestream Mach number results in a larger time-averaged recirculation region and vortex shedding wavelength. Furthermore, as Re is decreased for stable flows, the wake geometry is observed to exhibit a smaller variation over the range of freestream Mach numbers considered. In similar fashion for unstable flows, though the non-dimensional shedding frequency decreases monotonically with increasing freestream Mach number at every Re studied, the magnitude of this decrease shrinks as Re increases. These similarities in behavior between stable and unstable flows suggest that the difference between Re and the critical Reynolds number for the emergence of two-dimensional shedding plays a significant role in determining the sensitivity of a flow to compressibility effects.

This result is expected, and reflects results from other studies at higher Re.


In the study reported here we demonstrated that iv-ACT can reliably depict the lumen of small-vessel stents with high spatial resolution. As the low contrast resolution of ACT is comparable to that of conventional CT, a relatively low concentration of intravascular contrast medium is needed. All intracranial vessels can be viewed simultaneously in a high-quality image. CT-like images of the brain parenchyma are provided as well [10] . It therefore represents a new radiological imaging technique between CTA and ia-DSA.

CT-like images of the brain parenchyma are provided as well.


In case of a sewn seam the sewing thread joins two fabric pieces [9] . The seam is under certain tension which depends on thread tension during the sewing process, fabric tension and seam density. Seam tension is transferred to the surrounding parts of the fabric and affects the fabric transversally to the seam axis. This results in a deformation of the seam geometry and the misplacement of threads along the seam. Depending on the seam direction, warp and weft threads are misplaced (density disruption), and the distance between two adjacent threads depends on the ratio of the friction force between the warp and weft threads in relation to the value of loading force (tensile force) in the seam. Thread slippage in the fabric seam can be described as a deformation reflected as the misplacement of warp or weft threads, so-called "seam opening", and they are not broken, but there is a density disruption of fabric threads in the seam area. The greatest distance in millimetres among threads is observed.

In case of a sewn seam the sewing thread joins two fabric pieces.


Due to different static and dynamic loads in places of a sewn seam adjacent warp or weft threads can be misplaced, i.e. fabric density can be changed along the seam. This occurrence is described as thread slippage in a seam which is measured in the area of the greatest distance between two adjacent fabric threads expressed in millimetres. Excessive slippage disturbs aesthetic appearance of the product, but it also reduces its utility value, functionality and quality. The amount of permissible slippage depends on the agreement between the manufacturer and the customer. Slippage value depends on many factors related to external factors (intensity and duration of loading), fabric and yarn parameters and parameters of a sewn seam. Fabric weave, number of weft and warp interlacements in a weave unit, warp and weft density, surface properties of warp and weft that are exclusively related to friction parameters of yarn, yarn fineness, yarn manufacturing technology, fiber fineness, raw material composition and fiber length of the yarn and fabric finishing treatments have the biggest influence. One of the most important parameters is the contact area between warp and weft threads in the places of crossing points (greater areahigher friction force) [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] . Different types of sewing stitches are used in the technological sewing process. Due to the formation of sewing stitches various forces come into effect that can be considered in two parts: action of forces when tightening sewing stitches and action of forces when the needle with the sewing thread passes through the material to be sewn. Fabric slippage in clothing belongs to one of the most significant quality parameters from an aesthetic point of view. Except in cases of a combination of fabric properties which have an undesirable effect on slippage described in the introduction, seams in garments exposed to higher stresses are subjected to seam thread slippage. There are several critical places, such as shoulders, back and side seams of the jacket, pocket seams and buttock seams of the trousers [7, 8] . Narrow clothing is more prone to greater slippage, regardless of whether it was so designed or whether it is worn by a fuller-figured person. Normal clothing care (clothes laundering or dry cleaning) can also facilitate slippage which can occur because of removing anti-slippage agents.

One of the most important parameters is the contact area between warp and weft threads in the places of crossing points (greater areahigher friction force).

There are several critical places, such as shoulders, back and side seams of the jacket, pocket seams and buttock seams of the trousers.


There are some advantages for using expressed gene sequences as compared to anonymous sequences for identification and use of genetic markers (Thiel et al., 2003) . First, if an EST marker is associated to a trait of interest, it may be possible that this could be the gene affecting the trait directly. Therefore, EST-derived markers can provide opportunities for gene discovery and enhance the role of genetic markers by assaying variation in transcribed and known function genes. Second, EST-derived markers are likely to be more highly conserved and therefore may be more transferable between species than anonymous sequence-derived markers. Third, ESTs that share homology with candidate genes can be specifically targeted for genetic mapping and can be useful for aligning genome linkage across distantly related species for comparative analysis (Holton et al., 2002) .

There are some advantages for using expressed gene sequences as compared to anonymous sequences for identification and use of genetic markers.

Third, ESTs that share homology with candidate genes can be specifically targeted for genetic mapping and can be useful for aligning genome linkage across distantly related species for comparative analysis.


Second, a low settling coefficient indicates a low pelagic demand whereas a high coefficient indicates strong pelagic demand (Kelly et al. 1990) . Hence, the very high NH Undisturbed terrestrial systems are commonly N-limited whereas oligotrophic freshwater systems are typically P-limited (Vitousek and Howarth 1991) . Changes in N/P ratios in transit between bulk precipitation and lake outflows provides some support for this argument. N/P ratios were generally less in streams than in precipitation suggesting preferential N retention in catchments, whereas the N/P ratios in lake outputs were slightly higher than lake input ratios, suggesting preferential P retention in lakes (Tables 8 and 9 ).

Second, a low settling coefficient indicates a low pelagic demand whereas a high coefficient indicates strong pelagic demand.

Hence, the very high NH Undisturbed terrestrial systems are commonly N-limited whereas oligotrophic freshwater systems are typically P-limited.


Inhibiting leukocyte infiltration may be involved in sesame oil-exerted attenuation of pulmonary edema and inflammation. Leukocyte (including neutrophil, macrophage, and eosinophil) infiltration is commonly observed in case of allergic asthma [29] . Infiltrated leukocyte is a major source of proinflammatory mediator, such as cytokines and nitric oxide [30] . Inhibiting leukocyte infiltration shows a protective effect against pulmonary edema in various models [31, 32] . Sesame oil decreased cell counts in BALF and neutrophil infiltration in lungs. We suggest that sesame oil inhibits allergic asthma-associated pulmonary inflammation by inhibiting leukocyte, especially neutrophil, infiltration.

Leukocyte (including neutrophil, macrophage, and eosinophil) infiltration is commonly observed in case of allergic asthma.

Infiltrated leukocyte is a major source of proinflammatory mediator, such as cytokines and nitric oxide.

Inhibiting leukocyte infiltration shows a protective effect against pulmonary edema in various models.


Most MEMS devices are made using surface micromachining [2] . Material is deposited onto a substrate, masked and then etched. These steps are repeated to build up layers. As most methods of deposition are isotropic, chemical-mechanical polishing is often used to planarize each layer. Free-standing mechanical structures are created by removing sacrificial material or etching undercuts. When multiple materials are used, earlier layers must survive later deposition, etching and thermal treatment steps, potentially limiting the combinations of materials that can be used. Complex MEMS devices may have several material layers and require hundreds of sequential process steps. This highly serial nature compounds the impact of defects introduced at each step. To achieve economical device yields, it is then necessary to reduce the number of layers and shrink the size of the individual devices. Most commercially successful MEMS devices are not hindered by a restriction to planar structures, material limitations or increasing miniaturization. Indeed, many of the devices previously listed consist of a silicon structural element oscillating at high speed along a single axis. These requirements are well met by tiny, planar silicon components. Silicon has excellent specific stiffness and low thermal distortion, and processing methods therefore are well developed [3] .

Most MEMS devices are made using surface micromachining.

Silicon has excellent specific stiffness and low thermal distortion, and processing methods therefore are well developed.


Many machines realize greater performance and economy if made smaller. However, when shrunk to millimeter and micron sizes, new challenges arise in their construction. Monolithic fabrication must replace traditional methods, enabling efficient batch processing while eliminating the onerous assembly and handling of individual components. Integrated circuit technology has strongly influenced and informed this monolithic approach. Fabrication techniques include optical lithography, physical and chemical vapor deposition, spin coating of polymers, electroplating, thermal treatment, chemical and plasma etching, abrasive polishing and laser machining. Micro-devices with a variety of electrical and mechanical functions manufactured using these (and other) techniques are named microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). Many MEMS devices have found wide commercial success, including miniaturized accelerometers, gyroscopes, displays, electrical and optical switches, scanning mirrors and pressure sensors [1] . The success of these devices is due not only to the increased performance and reduced costs associated with miniaturization and batch fabrication, but to their tolerance of the limitations imposed by monolithic fabrication using integrated circuit techniques.

Many MEMS devices have found wide commercial success, including miniaturized accelerometers, gyroscopes, displays, electrical and optical switches, scanning mirrors and pressure sensors.


Future work aims at the integration of the coal cleat system in addition to its matrix to investigate preferential migration pathways and potential gas fingering processes, since effective coal permeability is controlled by fractures that encompass its natural cleat system and any other present fractures [31] . Moreover, thermo-mechanically-induced permeability changes in the close vicinity of the reactor will be considered in our future research activities to investigate the formation of potential leakage pathways for gas losses. In this context, the presence of high-permeable faults and their potential reactivation have also to be assessed in view of preferential leakage pathways for UCG gases.

Future work aims at the integration of the coal cleat system in addition to its matrix to investigate preferential migration pathways and potential gas fingering processes, since effective coal permeability is controlled by fractures that encompass its natural cleat system and any other present fractures.


Many efforts have been undertaken towards understanding the complex and strongly coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical processes in UCG [16, 26, [32] [33] [34] [35] [36] . Numerical modeling has been an important methodology to study these processes in view of UCG performance and sustainability. However, most of the earlier UCG modeling efforts assumed reduced complexity to achieve reasonable computational runtimes. Further, the former model's applicability is limited to specific and isolated cases, resulting in models that can hardly predict the performance of previous and future UCG operations [37] . With the current advancement in numerical modeling software tools and increasingly powerful computational hardware, 3D models with a reasonable complexity, e.g., supra-critical multiphase fluid flow, can be efficiently employed [37] .

Many efforts have been undertaken towards understanding the complex and strongly coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical processes in UCG.

Further, the former model's applicability is limited to specific and isolated cases, resulting in models that can hardly predict the performance of previous and future UCG operations.

With the current advancement in numerical modeling software tools and increasingly powerful computational hardware, 3D models with a reasonable complexity, e.g., supra-critical multiphase fluid flow, can be efficiently employed.


Antioxidative effect of compounds 1-6 The antioxidative activities of 1-6 were evaluated using the ferrlc thiocyanate method (Ono et a/., 1995) . Compounds 1, 4 and 5 showed stronger antioxidative activity than that of c!-tocopherol. Furthermore, 4 and 5 exhibited higher activity than that of BHA at the final concentratlon of 0.02% (Fig. 4) . These data indicated that the antioxidative activities of 1, 4 and 5 depended upon the occurrence ofthe hydroxyl group on the benzene ring. However, the activity of the methanol extract was higher than those of 1, 4 and 5. Therefore, it was suggested that more antioxidative active constituents than these compounds would be present in the methanol extract and/or a synergistic effect might be recognized in combination with some compounds.

Antioxidative effect of compounds 1-6 The antioxidative activities of 1-6 were evaluated using the ferrlc thiocyanate method.


There are some cache Intellectual Properties (IPs) for FPGA-embedded microprocessors. These IPs are more or less complex depending on the strategy used for data replacement. The cache IPs proposed by the FPGA vendors are, to our knowledge, direct mapped caches which are too simple to provide the desired performance in image processing applications [15] , [7] , [20] . This is due to the relatively slow operating frequency of the old generation FPGA systems. With new FPGA-SoCs, it is essential to have efficient cache strategies to share memory access between several processing IPs. Nevertheless, some IP vendors provide more complex cache implementation for FPGA, for example, Gaisler company proposes an open source tunable IP set-associative cache in the SoC environment of LEON3 [1] .

The cache IPs proposed by the FPGA vendors are, to our knowledge, direct mapped caches which are too simple to provide the desired performance in image processing applications.

Nevertheless, some IP vendors provide more complex cache implementation for FPGA, for example, Gaisler company proposes an open source tunable IP set-associative cache in the SoC environment of LEON3.


In 2004, the European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO) held an internal survey on the duration of concessions in European (landlord) ports. While the survey generated a fragmented picture on the issue, it revealed a big variety in terminal contract durations in European ports. This fact is confirmed in another recent survey for ESPO (Notteboom, 2008) . That survey focused on terminal awarding practices for 43 recent terminal projects in European seaports. The terminal projects related to ports using some form of landlord port management system. Nearly 44% of the terminals considered started operations recently. For about a quarter of the projects, the awarding and contracting procedures were already completed at the time of the survey, but the terminal had not started up operations yet. In 13% of the cases the awarding procedure was completed, but the contract with the future operator was not finalized yet. For the remaining cases the awarding procedure had not been started up yet or the awarding procedure was ongoing. Large, medium-sized as well as small terminal projects were represented in the survey. All port ranges in Europe were well represented, except for UK ports where the landlord system is not common. About 61% of all responses related to container terminal projects (Notteboom, 2008) .

This fact is confirmed in another recent survey for ESPO.

About 61% of all responses related to container terminal projects.


This will have the advantage of obtaining the Seifert condition for global supersymmetry in the most straightforward way by avoiding all the complications of spinors. Moreover and most importantly the topological gravity formulation will make immediate to identify the subsets of the topological transformations which preserve the Seifert structure. In the Seifert context ChernSimons topological (framing) anomaly is BRST trivial [5] . In this paper we compute explicitly the corresponding local Wess-Zumino (WZ) functional. To our knowledge this has not been done before. We will use the WZ local action to derive the dependence on the Seifert moduli of the quantum action directly from the anomalous Ward identity associated to the topological anomaly. Our computation will be manifestly regularization and gauge independent: We will do it without the need of computing explicitly any functional determinant.

In the Seifert context ChernSimons topological (framing) anomaly is BRST trivial.


The relatively slow progress of the Smart Grids in Argentina is due to different factors, mainly the lack of proper investment by companies, and poor planning in the energy distribution context. This situation results in a progressive decrease in the service quality. The margin between installed power and the consumers demand is reduced year after year and, consequently, the electricity distribution system in Argentina is then left with a very small reserve margin, since the electricity demand approaches in many occasions the installed capacity. Particularly in the hot seasons in Argentina, summer temperatures above 35˚C with over 90% humidity are normal, so there are corresponding consumption peaks related to the use of Air Conditioning devices massively. These peaks produce severe damage or reduction of lifespan for several distribution transformers and led to the Energetic Emergency law [3] . Against this background, the electricity distribution companies must act efficiently to avoid damaging their equipment.

These peaks produce severe damage or reduction of lifespan for several distribution transformers and led to the Energetic Emergency law.


On the basis of studying the experience on typhoon observation in the international, Meteorological Observation Centre (MOC), China Meteorological Administration had carried out the first field campaign to observe Typhoon Kalmaegi by UAV in mainland of China on Jul. 18, 2008 [11] . This observation was successful that all data had been achieved during the observation and the UAV returned safely. Following that, MOC had adopted surrounding way to observe Typhoon Sinlaku (NO. 0813) and the essential meteorological elements had been obtained during the observation. The objective of this study is to obtain more observational data, thus to improve the accuracy of horizontal wind field and accuracy of typhoon forecasting and also do contribution to improve typhoon numerical forecasting model.

On the basis of studying the experience on typhoon observation in the international, Meteorological Observation Centre (MOC), China Meteorological Administration had carried out the first field campaign to observe Typhoon Kalmaegi by UAV in mainland of China on Jul. 18, 2008.


The Bloch band was extracted under a relatively large-loss condition. Figure 7b shows equi-frequency contours at 3.4 (blue curve), 3.5 (purple curve) and 3.6 eV (light purple curve); solid and dashed curves denote the real and imaginary parts, respectively. Obviously, the contours change shape as the photon energy increases, deforming from the quite flat to concave shapes around k x = 0 at 3.4 to 3.6 eV. On the other hand, the optical loss or Im(k z ) increases as |k x | gets larger, which is an explicit signature of spatial dispersion; simultaneously, the contour at 3.6 eV deviates from the concave shape to a convex shape at |k x | > 3. In short, the hyperbolic dispersion assumed in the previous theoretical reports does not exist, even in the typical SMIM. These results are consistent with the feature that SMIMs are spatial dispersive, being out of scope for the effective medium model. Figure 7c ,d is the result for the SMIM of the (Ag 30 nm/I 50 nm)-unit cell where the I was assumed to have a permittivity of 4.84, which was set considering a high-refractive-index insulator, such as Ta 2 O 5 . Similar designs were recently reported [8, 10, 11] . The k x -wide band is located around 2.8 eV and moves to lower energy than the band in Figure 7a . The Bloch band was extracted similarly to that in Figure  7a . The equi-frequency contours at 2.8 to 3.1 eV are shown in Figure 7d , appearing in the order of bottom-to-top. The real (solid curves) and imaginary parts (dashed curves) exhibit a similar profile to those in Figure 7b . Overall, the dispersions indicate spatial dispersion and non-hyperbolic dispersion in the typical SMIMs reported so far.

Similar designs were recently reported.


VDTNs have several application scenarios including: traffic condition monitoring, collision avoidance, emergency message dissemination, free parking spots information, advertisements and, for example, to gather data collected by vehicles (like road pavement defects) [6] [7] [8] [9] . Figure 1 shows an example of a VDTN. Mobile nodes (e.g., vehicles) physically carry data, exchanging information with one another. They move along the roads randomly (e.g. cars), or following predefined routes (e.g. buses). Stationary relay nodes are fixed devices located at crossroads, with store-and-forward capabilities. They allow mobile nodes passing by to pickup and deposit data on them, thus increasing the number of contact opportunities. To cope with intermittent connectivity, VDTN network nodes store messages on their buffers, while waiting for opportunities to forward messages to intermediate nodes or to the final destination. Routing protocols replicate messages along multiple network nodes (paths) to improve their delivery probability and minimize the message delivery delay. In a resource-constrained network, the combination of message storage during large periods of time and their replication degrades the overall network performance and motivates the need for effective scheduling and dropping policies.

VDTNs have several application scenarios including: traffic condition monitoring, collision avoidance, emergency message dissemination, free parking spots information, advertisements and, for example, to gather data collected by vehicles (like road pavement defects).

Figure 1 shows an example of a VDTN.


Researches suggest that reactive oxygen species (ROS), can be induced in organisms exposed to some environmental contaminants [4] [5] [6] . Recent study suggested that Roundup® might induce oxidative stress in aquatic organisms through the increased levels of tissue lipid hydroperoxides [7] . Few direct evidences can prove ROS generation and oxidative stress in aquatic organisms exposed to Roundup® and its main constituents.

Researches suggest that reactive oxygen species (ROS), can be induced in organisms exposed to some environmental contaminants.

Recent study suggested that Roundup® might induce oxidative stress in aquatic organisms through the increased levels of tissue lipid hydroperoxides.


Roundup®, the main glyphosate formulations, is already mixtures of glyphosate and various adjuvants at different concentrations [1] . The original formulation of Roundup® contains isopropylamine salt of glyphosate (G.I.S) as the active ingredient and polyoxyethylene amine (POEA) as the surfactant agent [2] . Since Roundup® can easily reach the aquatic systems by runoff, drainage, leaching or inadvertent aerial overspray, the herbicide represents a dangerous and widely spread group of environmental contaminants [3] . However, the knowledge on the timeeffect of toxicity induced by environmental concentration of Roundup® and its main constituents to fish is still limited.

Roundup®, the main glyphosate formulations, is already mixtures of glyphosate and various adjuvants at different concentrations.

The original formulation of Roundup® contains isopropylamine salt of glyphosate (G.I.S) as the active ingredient and polyoxyethylene amine (POEA) as the surfactant agent.

Since Roundup® can easily reach the aquatic systems by runoff, drainage, leaching or inadvertent aerial overspray, the herbicide represents a dangerous and widely spread group of environmental contaminants.


Substrate is also considered as an important structuring factor for the phytobenthic and benthic invertebrate communities (Kautsky, 1988; Kautsky et al., 1999; Kotta et al., 2007) . In our models substrate was not an important explaining variable. Our study area is characterized by a mosaic of substrate at small spatial scales, i.e. practically all substrate types are available within a 100 m range. Thus, substrate is most likely not limiting the distribution of macrophyte and benthic invertebrate species in our transect area.

Substrate is also considered as an important structuring factor for the phytobenthic and benthic invertebrate communities.


Today, the use of colour index is more common than other components in most of commercial separation and gradation systems. In the first years of using the machine vision technique, the colour of the product was evaluated based on the gray-scale taken by a monochrome camera. Now, video cameras based on RGB are used in the preparation and processing centers. A large proportion of the coordinates. This conversion can be done via MATLAB software, utilizing the function of rgb2hsv. The lab colour model is based on the theory of colour contrast. In this theory, the human eye receptors observe colours in contrast pairs: light-dark, red-green and yellow-blue. In this work, the red-green colour dimension is indicated by the symbol of 'a' (Redness), while the yellow-blue colour dimension is labeled utilizing the symbol 'b' (Yellowness). The third dimension of colour is lightness. Herein, the symbol 'L' is used. To convert the RGB colour space to Lab, two orders cform = makecform ('srgb2lab') and Lab = applycform (~, cform) were applied. Therefore, as Table 1 shows, 9 colour features, including means of colour components (R, G, B, H, S, V, L, a and b) were extracted from individual labeled grains. Morphology can be defined as a theory for the analysis of spatial structures. The objective of this scientific branch is to analyze the shape and structure of objects. In this study, 10 morphological features of wheat grains were measured. Some features were obtained in MATLAB by regionprops function and others were obtained using the functions presented in Table 1 . Texture provides criteria of properties such as flatness, coarseness and regularity. One of the simplest methods used to characterize the texture is the statistical moments related to the intensity histogram of an image or objective (Gonzalez et al., 2004) .

A large proportion of the coordinates.

Herein, the symbol 'L' is used.

One of the simplest methods used to characterize the texture is the statistical moments related to the intensity histogram of an image or objective.


Artificial neural networks (ANNs) are the extended approach to modeling complicated real-world problems by imitation of the structure and function of the human brain (Ebrahimi et al., 2014) . Multi-layer perceptron (MLP) is one of the most prolific neural networks in classification. The MLP consists of three layers: input, hidden, and output (Mollazade et al., 2012) . These depend on the number of input features, the complexity of the classification problem, and the number of output classes. In this study, for classifying the inputs according to target classes, we applied a pattern recognition of pre-existing networks as used in the Neural Network Toolkit, the Matlab software R2014b version. Employing pre-existing networks as MLP networks can solve problems in a non-linear way. Such an approach consists of establishing a series of layers wherein the first layer is the connection of input networks. Each of the subsequent layers has a connection from the previous layer. The final layer also creates the output of the network. The topology is initially identified and the network is trained with input and output data. The goal of training is to minimize network error.

Artificial neural networks (ANNs) are the extended approach to modeling complicated real-world problems by imitation of the structure and function of the human brain.

The MLP consists of three layers: input, hidden, and output.


Further, the findings of the relationship between self-efficacy and learning strategy use scores obtained by Urmia English students on self-efficacy scale and SILL were unrelated to each other. In other words, the results showed that Urmia university students' scores on the General Self-efficacy Scale did not correlate significantly with their scores on SILL questionnaire. Therefore, findings of previous studies on relationship between self-efficacy and language learning strategy use, which demonstrated a positive correlation between self-efficacy beliefs and learning strategy use were not replicated here ( Magogwe and Oliver, 2007) .

Therefore, findings of previous studies on relationship between self-efficacy and language learning strategy use, which demonstrated a positive correlation between self-efficacy beliefs and learning strategy use were not replicated here.


Protocols first started within face-to-face environments, but are now being explored in the online environment (McDonald et al., 2012) . This study explored the use of protocols within online discussions in a large enrollment college course over a two-semester period. The explicit structure of a protocol may keep students in a large online class on track and focused on a goal, sustain the community, and eliminate the need for constant facilitation from the instructor. At the conclusion of the paper, specific enhancements that enable a protocol-based discussion to logistically work in a large online class are proposed.

Protocols first started within face-to-face environments, but are now being explored in the online environment.


Genomic and proteomic studies of T. brucei, T. cruzi and L. major have allowed for a description of the entire kinome for these trypanosomatids [18] . This analysis demonstrated that although these protozoans lack members of the receptorlinked or cytosolic tyrosine kinase families, they have abun-dant quantities of the STE and CMGC families of protein kinases [18] . The STE and CMGC families of protein kinases are involved in regulating cell cycle control, responses to stress during their complex life cycles and cell differentiation [7] [8] [9] 18] .

Genomic and proteomic studies of T. brucei, T. cruzi and L. major have allowed for a description of the entire kinome for these trypanosomatids.

This analysis demonstrated that although these protozoans lack members of the receptorlinked or cytosolic tyrosine kinase families, they have abun-dant quantities of the STE and CMGC families of protein kinases.

The STE and CMGC families of protein kinases are involved in regulating cell cycle control, responses to stress during their complex life cycles and cell differentiation.


Interestingly, statins did not lower total cholesterol but had a major effect on TG levels in the current study. These results are different than those expected in humans. Clinically established statins have long been known to exert anti-atherosclerotic effects. However, recent studies have suggested that the effects of statins on cholesterol in mice are different than those in humans. For instance, statin treatment does not decrease cholesterol levels in ApoE −/− mice. This can be explained by the lack of ApoE, which is a ligand for the LDL receptor and is necessary for LDL clearance. Thus, the cholesterol-independent effects of statins can be more effectively studied in mice than in humans [23] [24] [25] .

Thus, the cholesterol-independent effects of statins can be more effectively studied in mice than in humans.


A very promising direction in the development of anticancer drugs is inhibiting the molecular pathways that keep cancer cells alive and able to metastasize. Much attention has been directed , it can enter the cell through the high-affinity Cu transporter Ctr1. Cu(I) can be bound to Cu chaperones and transported in the cytoplasm to several organelles, not shown here [14, 23, 24] . Cu can be delivered to many Cu-binding proteins, including Mek1 and MEMO. Mek1, when activated by Cu binding, will activate the MAPK pathway, which leads to cell proliferation. Antioxidant 1 Cu chaperone (ATOX1) mediates the delivery of Cu to Cubinding proteins located in the lamellipodia (not shown here), such as MEMO, which is separately known to regulate cancer cell migration and could have implications in metastasis [12, 24] . Cu has been associated with angiogenesis [23] . Cu chelator tetrathiomolybdate (TM) treatment can delay the activation of angiogenesis on pancreatic islets. In pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor cells, treatment with TM reduced the activity of Cyt-c, which results in decreased oxidative phosphorylation [23] . CisPt can enter cancer cells through Ctr1. When Cu is present in high levels (a common property of many cancers) cells downregulate the expression of Ctr1 [12] . This results in less CisPt entering the cells. Here, we show the use of Cu chelators to overcome CisPt resistance and make cancer cells more sensitive to this chemotherapeutic agent [12, 14, 15, [23] [24] [25] .

Cu(I) can be bound to Cu chaperones and transported in the cytoplasm to several organelles, not shown here.

Antioxidant 1 Cu chaperone (ATOX1) mediates the delivery of Cu to Cubinding proteins located in the lamellipodia (not shown here), such as MEMO, which is separately known to regulate cancer cell migration and could have implications in metastasis.

Cu has been associated with angiogenesis.

In pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor cells, treatment with TM reduced the activity of Cyt-c, which results in decreased oxidative phosphorylation.

When Cu is present in high levels (a common property of many cancers) cells downregulate the expression of Ctr1.

Here, we show the use of Cu chelators to overcome CisPt resistance and make cancer cells more sensitive to this chemotherapeutic agent.


We currently have no understanding on whether cyanobacterial communities will follow the same patterns as other organisms in response to changing climates. In Antarctic habitats cyanobacteria are crucial mediators of biogeochemical cycles, therefore elucidating their responses to changing climate would be a worthy feat for future studies. It has been proposed that changes in climate are likely to alter the ecological strategies of soil bacteria (Evans and Wallenstein 2014) . Predicting the direct effects on Antarctic habitats, which are subject to climate changes, requires further research.

It has been proposed that changes in climate are likely to alter the ecological strategies of soil bacteria.


Maximal oxygen uptake (VO 2 max) is one of the most common measurements in exercise physiology, and it is frequently used to indicate the aerobic fitness of an individual [4] . It has been noted that maximal oxygen consumption is higher in men when compared with women [2] . However, it is well known that the anaerobic threshold (AT), regardless of its precise definition, represents the subject's aerobic work capacity in a more accurate way than VO 2 max, especially in well trained athletes [1] . Number of methods have been developed to define the lactate deflection point from an incremental test [18] . This point is crucial because it indicated when one switches from mostly aerobic to mostly anaerobic metabolism [7] . It is well known that anaerobic threshold has been used to establish and to predicting performance capacity or to prescribing training intensities [18] .

Maximal oxygen uptake (VO 2 max) is one of the most common measurements in exercise physiology, and it is frequently used to indicate the aerobic fitness of an individual.

It has been noted that maximal oxygen consumption is higher in men when compared with women.

However, it is well known that the anaerobic threshold (AT), regardless of its precise definition, represents the subject's aerobic work capacity in a more accurate way than VO 2 max, especially in well trained athletes.

Number of methods have been developed to define the lactate deflection point from an incremental test.

This point is crucial because it indicated when one switches from mostly aerobic to mostly anaerobic metabolism.

It is well known that anaerobic threshold has been used to establish and to predicting performance capacity or to prescribing training intensities.


In this paper, we first demonstrate this approach for image restoration in an actual multi-aperture system. A binocular telescope testbed consisting of two horizontally arranged collector telescopes with 127 mm diameter has been built in our laboratory. Synthetic images using different resolution test charts with horizontal resolution obviously improved are acquired after the two sub-apertures are co-phased by using an optimization algorithm to control the specially designed actuator. Then we capture other single aperture images as diversity datasets by switching off each electronic shutter attached to sub-apertures, alternately. Restored synthetic images showing less blurring and high contrast can be obtained by using an improved SPGD algorithm to process the raw images. The two independent data sets can be the reference of each other and a good agreement between the repeatable wavefront measurements is also presented. Note that the algorithm used here for real sparse aperture systems is also different from our previous one, because it needs to consider both the aberrations of imaging beams and sub-apertures while only modeling the former is enough in previous pupil-mask experiment [18] . This paper is structured as follows. In Section 2, the design of the binocular telescope testbed is introduced and the direct experimental results are presented. Section 3 describes the improved algorithm of image restoration associated with the testbed. Section 4 shows the reconstructed results. Finally, the conclusions are given in Section 5.

Note that the algorithm used here for real sparse aperture systems is also different from our previous one, because it needs to consider both the aberrations of imaging beams and sub-apertures while only modeling the former is enough in previous pupil-mask experiment.

This paper is structured as follows.


With modern technology developing, astronomical space observation needs the apertures of optical imaging systems to be large enough to meet the requirement of the desired high resolution. Unfortunately, the large aperture would bring big challenges to the fabrication and cost with the mass and volume of systems increasing undesirably. In this case, optical sparse aperture imaging has grown out of the quest for solving the contradiction between higher angular resolution and large aperture telescopes [1] . By using several co-phased small sub-apertures to synthesize images, sparse aperture systems can achieve the same resolution as a fully-filled aperture with a smaller overall light collection area. However, sparse arrangement of sub-apertures also trades off many midband spatial frequencies, causing the corresponding modulation transfer function (MTF) greatly attenuated. As a result, the raw images directly collected by sparse aperture systems are poor, suffering from significant blurring and loss of contrast [2] .

In this case, optical sparse aperture imaging has grown out of the quest for solving the contradiction between higher angular resolution and large aperture telescopes.

As a result, the raw images directly collected by sparse aperture systems are poor, suffering from significant blurring and loss of contrast.


Except for deconvolution, there are also other image processing techniques that can improve image quality, such as the feature point matching algorithm [29] . As for sparse aperture images, it shows potential to superpose sub-images, but the problem that the PSF is an interference pattern rather than an Airy disk might be a limitation. If this algorithm was improved with further study and could work for multi-aperture systems, though superposing sub-images (equivalent to correcting tip-tilt), it couldn't remove the aberrations and improve the contrast compared with our method.

Except for deconvolution, there are also other image processing techniques that can improve image quality, such as the feature point matching algorithm.


In 1984, a comparatively reliable serologic test, ELISA, was introduced. A person whose ELISA is positive undergoes an US examination [4] . Since then, even very small lesions are being detected. The most recent 3 children presented with no clinical symptoms but had positive serologic tests while US and CT examinations revealed small, resectable lesions. Must of these small lesions were not characteristic of alveolar echinococcosis; these cases showed small hyperdense or calcified lesions without the classic findings of mixed or hypodense areas [1] .

A person whose ELISA is positive undergoes an US examination.

Must of these small lesions were not characteristic of alveolar echinococcosis; these cases showed small hyperdense or calcified lesions without the classic findings of mixed or hypodense areas.


This study has a number of limitations. It comes from a single center with a special research interest in SWE but as the technique is straightforward to perform, we do not foresee difficulty replicating these results at other centers. The number of patients in the study is modest so differences in performance according to immunophenotype have not been assessed. It is possible that SWE may perform better in certain immunophenotypes in this setting as this is certainly the case when using SWE to predict response at baseline and when using MRI to predict pCR at interim scanning [4, 21] .

This study has a number of limitations.

It is possible that SWE may perform better in certain immunophenotypes in this setting as this is certainly the case when using SWE to predict response at baseline and when using MRI to predict pCR at interim scanning.


Furthermore, as the data have shown gathering for a sailing is an artful practice: a form of techne. Making a ferry is like weaving a journey together. The weaving metaphor (Ingold 2000, p. 346) epitomizes the practical, performative engagement of the ferrycatching passenger. Weaving is a form of orchestrated, emergent movement and so is catching a ferry. Like weavers, ferry passengers do not begin their journeys to the ferry terminal with an exact idea of the passage they wish to make and how that passage will unfold. Passages are thus not the forms generated by passengers' mental activities and exhaustive rational planning, but rather the outcome of adaptive practice of travellers and their emergent problem-solving (Peters, 2006) . Passages begin ''in the always social, material, and imaginary work of creating the destination'' (Watts, 2008, p. 714) and evolve constantly, changing shape as passengers practice their kinaesthetic, orientational, and adaptive skills. Hence, like any product of weaving, a passage ''comes into being through the gradual unfolding of that field of forces set up through the active and sensuous engagement of practitioner and material'' (Ingold, 2000, p. 342) .

Passages are thus not the forms generated by passengers' mental activities and exhaustive rational planning, but rather the outcome of adaptive practice of travellers and their emergent problem-solving.


The standard cosmological model employs a particular Friedmann-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker (FLRW) spacetime in its description of our universe's large scale structure. These spacetimes are exactly spatially homogeneous and isotropic. While one ultimately justifies this choice of spacetime on the basis of its success in describing our universe, one often invokes the cosmological principle-that no place or direction is privileged at any epoch in our universe-as motivation. Since the assumption of a FLRW spacetime embeds the cosmological principle in the standard cosmological model, tests of this model amount in part to tests of the cosmological principle. One can also attempt to test the cosmological principle in a model-independent fashion; however, completely disentangling such a test from any model is quite nontrivial [2] . Of course, our universe is manifestly inhomogeneous and anisotropic on relatively small length scales, evidently becoming approximately homogeneous and isotropic on relatively large length scales. To account for the inhomogeneity and anisotropy of our universe, one introduces coupled gravitational and material perturbations which propagate on the background of the FLRW spacetime. These perturbations must maintain magnitudes sufficiently small that their backreaction on the FLRW spacetime is essentially negligible. In light of this inhomogeneity and anisotropy on relatively small scales, one actually attempts to determine on what relatively large scales homogeneity and isotropy emerge at a particular epoch. Ideally, one would make this determination for every epoch, testing one's prediction for the evolution of these scales, but, currently, only certain epochs are accessible to such an analysis.

One can also attempt to test the cosmological principle in a model-independent fashion; however, completely disentangling such a test from any model is quite nontrivial.


I report numerical measurements of the two homogeneity measures in section 4. I study exclusively the phase of Wick-rotated quantum geometry known to possess semiclassical properties on sufficiently large scales. In particular, this phase's quantum geometry is well described as that of Euclidean de Sitter space on its largest scales [5, 6, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 22, 23] . Since the spacetime geometry of our universe is well described as that of Lorentzian de Sitter spacetime both during cosmic inflation and in the far future, examining this phase of quantum geometry seems a not so unreasonable starting point. I apply both homogeneity measures in two capacities: quantifying the homogeneity of the quantum spacetime geometry and quantifying the homogeneity of the distinguished quantum spatial geometries. By tracing the temporal evolution of these quantum spatial geometries, I analyze the epoch dependence of homogeneity in complete analogy to analyses of our universe.

In particular, this phase's quantum geometry is well described as that of Euclidean de Sitter space on its largest scales.


However, there are limitations in this biomass estimation approach. We assumed no variation in wood specific gravity for biomass estimation models although it is an important predictor for biomass estimation [33] . This could lead estimation errors when wood specific gravity varies according to environmental change. In addition, this method is still needed to be investigated for REDD+ forest monitoring systems. Further studies to improve the accuracy and utility of this method should be pursued. Tree height measurement of manual stereo viewing requires roads near forests or gaps in forests as a substitute for tree base elevation. Studies are required to assess the utility of this method for the forests, in which there are neither gaps nor roads. Also, studies in steep forests are required to validate the utility of the method for various kinds of topography.

We assumed no variation in wood specific gravity for biomass estimation models although it is an important predictor for biomass estimation.


Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries, especially in tropical regions, is recognized as a way to mitigate climate change. For example, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fourth Assessment Report states that deforestation in the forest sector is the major factor in total carbon emissions, and tropical forest has the greatest mitigation potential in such sector [1] . An appropriate framework to reduce deforestation and forest degradation is needed [2] . Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation, and the role of conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries (REDD+), is one example of a framework for climate change mitigation. REDD+ is expected to establish incentives for developing countries to protect and better manage their forest resources, by creating and recognizing financial value for the additional carbon stored in trees or not emitted to the atmosphere [3] . REDD+ activities must be based on scientifically robust forest monitoring systems [4] .

For example, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fourth Assessment Report states that deforestation in the forest sector is the major factor in total carbon emissions, and tropical forest has the greatest mitigation potential in such sector.

An appropriate framework to reduce deforestation and forest degradation is needed.

REDD+ is expected to establish incentives for developing countries to protect and better manage their forest resources, by creating and recognizing financial value for the additional carbon stored in trees or not emitted to the atmosphere.

REDD+ activities must be based on scientifically robust forest monitoring systems.


We found RMSE of DCHM from airborne LiDAR data to be 1.72 m. Accuracy of tree height measurement of manual stereo viewing was nearly the same as measurement of the DCHM from airborne LiDAR data. Measurement of tree height using airborne LiDAR data had high accuracy and reliability [28, 29] . Thus, using manual stereo viewing is a feasible way to measure tree height. However, it should be noted that not all trees are detected using manual stereo viewing. Understandably, manual stereo viewing detects only the trees of upper layer in forests because lower trees are hidden by upper trees. In this study, trees, which were less than 20m in height, were difficult to detect using manual stereo viewing (Figure 4 ). Tree height distribution measured from manual stereo viewing was also significantly different from that measured from field survey. Therefore, mean tree height of the measurement of manual stereo viewing was higher than that of the field survey. Manual stereo viewing was not a real alternative for field measurement.

Measurement of tree height using airborne LiDAR data had high accuracy and reliability.


Aerial photographs have been used for many decades in forest inventory [20] . Quantitative and qualitative forest characteristics have been measured by manual methods of stereo photogrammetry (3D methods hereafter) using aerial photographs since the 1940s [21] . Progress in computer science, however, enables production of digital surface models (DSMs) automatically from a stereo pair of digital aerial photographs using stereo matching algorithms similar to those derived from airborne LiDAR first returns. A DSM from high spatial resolution digital aerial photographs can predict tree height, biomass, and other forest structural attributes very accurately, as accurate as airborne LiDAR estimation [22, 23] . Progress in computer science also facilitates manual 3D stereo viewing methods on computer displays using digital aerial photographs and shuttered glass (manual stereo viewing hereafter), similar to conventional 3D methods using misreading-prone and a skill-demanding parallax bar on a hardcopy image. Manual stereo viewing is intuitive and there is no need for technical skills for measurement. Thus, investigation of tree height measurement and biomass estimation accuracy of manual stereo viewing may furnish another means for estimating carbon stocks and another option for forest monitoring systems. Nevertheless, there is very little research on this accuracy.

Aerial photographs have been used for many decades in forest inventory.

Quantitative and qualitative forest characteristics have been measured by manual methods of stereo photogrammetry (3D methods hereafter) using aerial photographs since the 1940s.

A DSM from high spatial resolution digital aerial photographs can predict tree height, biomass, and other forest structural attributes very accurately, as accurate as airborne LiDAR estimation.


For both datasets these recognition results are not obvious since a coarse pre-selection could be expected to exclude potential genuine templates too. In contrary, the pre-selection helps to avoid false positive matches. This may be explained by the fact that the Du approach yields good results for partial iris recognition (e.g., heavy eyelid occlusion or segmentation errors) and noisy images (Du et al., 2006) .

This may be explained by the fact that the Du approach yields good results for partial iris recognition (e.g., heavy eyelid occlusion or segmentation errors) and noisy images.


Additionally, we will compare our policy model against the existing ones. We envision to translate some well-known policy languages, e.g., XACML, into our formalism. As other models' semantics are usually expressed in terms of allowed or denied queries and not in terms of authorized subgraphs, verifying the correctness of such a translation would lead us to relate these different semantics. As an example, for a query Q and an XACML policy X, the condition may be that Q(G + α(X) ) = Q(G) if and only if X X (Q) = where α is the translation function and X is the interpretation function of XACML [14] .

As an example, for a query Q and an XACML policy X, the condition may be that Q(G + α(X) ) = Q(G) if and only if X X (Q) = where α is the translation function and X is the interpretation function of XACML.


The health of mothers is mostly regarded as an indicator the health of the society. Globally, more than half a million women die each year from complications of pregnancy and childbirth [1] [2] [3] . A large proportion of maternal and neonatal deaths occur during the first 48 h after delivery. Thus, postnatal care (PNC) is important for both the mother and the child to treat complications arising from the delivery, as well as to provide the mother with important information [4] . Every year, four million infants die within their first month of life, representing nearly 40 % of all deaths of children under age 5 year old. Almost all newborn deaths are in developing countries, with the highest number in South Asia and the highest rates in sub-Saharan Africa [5] . PNC coverage is low in Ethiopia; only 5 % of mothers received PNC within the critical first 2 days after delivery [4] . Nationwide, 34.3 % of mothers in Ethiopia receive PNC within the first 6 weeks after delivery. In the Amhara region (in which Gondar is found), the number of women attending PNC jumps to 44.5 % [6] . It is an incontrovertible fact that PNC services help to safeguard women from complications following delivery and provide important opportunities to assess the infant's development. Moreover, PNC services help to offer newborn care (e.g. Counseling on breast feeding and Preventing Mother -to-Child Transmission) and other services like immunization and family planning which are crucial for both the mother and the infant [7] [8] [9] .

Globally, more than half a million women die each year from complications of pregnancy and childbirth.

Thus, postnatal care (PNC) is important for both the mother and the child to treat complications arising from the delivery, as well as to provide the mother with important information.

Almost all newborn deaths are in developing countries, with the highest number in South Asia and the highest rates in sub-Saharan Africa.

PNC coverage is low in Ethiopia; only 5 % of mothers received PNC within the critical first 2 days after delivery.

In the Amhara region (in which Gondar is found), the number of women attending PNC jumps to 44.5 %.

Moreover, PNC services help to offer newborn care (e.g. Counseling on breast feeding and Preventing Mother -to-Child Transmission) and other services like immunization and family planning which are crucial for both the mother and the infant.


Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disease. While most of PD cases are idiopathic, monogenic forms of the disease are demonstrated in about 5-10% of patients [1] . Mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) are the most common cause of inherited PD and account for 1-2% of sporadic PD cases [2] . LRRK2 is a large multi-domain protein with kinase and GTPase activity involved in several cellular functions [3] . A glycine to serine substitution in the kinase domain of this protein (G2019S), accounts for the majority of genetically-transmitted, late-onset PD and for a variable proportion of sporadic PD, with higher prevalence in Ashkenazi Jews and North-African populations [4, 5] . Previous experimental models of PD have reported that LRRK2 mutations play a role in α-synuclein phosphorylation and depot, microtubule dynamics regulation, alterations in the ubiquitin-proteasome system and in neurite growth and branching of neurons [6] .

While most of PD cases are idiopathic, monogenic forms of the disease are demonstrated in about 5-10% of patients.

Mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) are the most common cause of inherited PD and account for 1-2% of sporadic PD cases.

LRRK2 is a large multi-domain protein with kinase and GTPase activity involved in several cellular functions.

A glycine to serine substitution in the kinase domain of this protein (G2019S), accounts for the majority of genetically-transmitted, late-onset PD and for a variable proportion of sporadic PD, with higher prevalence in Ashkenazi Jews and North-African populations.

Previous experimental models of PD have reported that LRRK2 mutations play a role in α-synuclein phosphorylation and depot, microtubule dynamics regulation, alterations in the ubiquitin-proteasome system and in neurite growth and branching of neurons.


For completeness, we also present the heavy neutrino production cross sections for various other sub-dominant processes, such as the Higgsstrahlung process e + e − → ZH → ZN ν (ν ) and the dominantly photon-mediated processes e + e − → N ± e ∓ ν e (ν e ). We could also have the processes e ± γ → N W ± and e ± γ → N ± ν e (ν e ), with a real photon coming from the electron or positron beam. These processes are of direct relevance for an electronphoton collider [57] .

These processes are of direct relevance for an electronphoton collider.


With regard to small-scale flapping wing flight, there are additional aspects that are related to the smallness of those vehicles [1] . Because of the small size, this type of vehicle shows unique features. One relates to unsteady effects, considered to provide advantages over comparable fixed wing designs. Another example are separated flow aspects which are assumed to enhance lift and thrust, and efficiency effects unique for micro-sized vehicles. Such effects will not be addressed because they are beyond the scope of this paper.

With regard to small-scale flapping wing flight, there are additional aspects that are related to the smallness of those vehicles.


A key factor for the power demand of flapping wing vehicles is the drag. The drag consists of two parts, one is the drag at zero lift and the other part is the induced drag. In recent papers, it has been shown that the induced drag is strongly influenced by flapping [13] [14] [15] . The presented results reveal that there is a substantial increase in the induced drag in flapping wings when compared with an equivalent non-flapping, fixed wing configuration. The profile drag is also an issue [16] . In the present paper, this drag part is treated as an effective value in terms of an average holding for a flapping cycle.

In recent papers, it has been shown that the induced drag is strongly influenced by flapping.

The profile drag is also an issue.


Vehicles with flapping wings that enable simultaneous lift and thrust generation have gained significant interest as an alternative flight possibility when compared with fixed wing vehicles [1] [2] [3] . Flapping wing vehicles show a variety of aerodynamic configurational designs and constructional solutions for flapping the wings. The size of flapping wing vehicles ranges from large-scale, ornithopter-type aircraft powered by an engine or by the muscles of the pilot to small-and even micro-scale air vehicles.

Vehicles with flapping wings that enable simultaneous lift and thrust generation have gained significant interest as an alternative flight possibility when compared with fixed wing vehicles.


The FFC-NMR is a technique used to measure the spin-lattice relaxation times of different types of materials [1] [2] [3] [4] . The FFC-NMR technique is usually implemented by devices having as main elements a magnet and a power supply (Fig. 1 ) [5] [6] [7] [8] . During a FFC-NMR experiment several phases are observed (Fig. 2) , during which the samples are submitted to magnetic flux density cycles of different intensity and duration. A regular cycle comprises three phases: the polarization phase, when a magnetic flux density with high amplitude (B P ) is applied in order to magnetize the particles and arrange them in a certain way. Then, the second step is the evolution phase, where a very low field (B E ) is applied during a certain interval, to let the samples rearrange to their equilibrium state, both magnetically, as well as thermal equilibrium. Finally, there is the detection phase, in which a field of high flux density (B D ) is applied preferably during a short period of time. The main requirements of the power supply are: stability and accuracy values of the magnetic flux density, at each phase of the cycle and the speed on the transitions between the levels of the magnet current [9] [10] [11] . The main technical problem of the most recent FFC-NMR relaxometers is to set magnetic flux density levels below 10 T. This difficulty is due to the magnetic characteristic of the magnet (hysteresis, saturation and parasitic currents) and due to parasitic magnetic fields, as for instance the components of the Earth magnetic field. To overcome this technical issue, a new solution for the FFC-NMR power supply, which is new for this type of equipment, is described in this paper. This solution is based on a four quadrant DC/DC converter.

The FFC-NMR is a technique used to measure the spin-lattice relaxation times of different types of materials.

The FFC-NMR technique is usually implemented by devices having as main elements a magnet and a power supply (Fig. 1 ).

The main requirements of the power supply are: stability and accuracy values of the magnetic flux density, at each phase of the cycle and the speed on the transitions between the levels of the magnet current.


Thermal comfort dissatisfaction of the occupants is usually estimated using PPD. Even though the thermal sensation vote is neutral, the PPD value is at 5%. PPD less than 20% is considered good and that means 80% of occupants are satisfied with the thermal environment [16] . Naturally ventilated buildings designs can perform efficiently in hot climate countries, like Malaysia because of their low evaporation rate, long hours of sunshine and high relative humidity [17] . Many published studies show that the human thermal sensation in a naturally ventilated environment is much better than that in a mechanically controlled thermal environment [18] .

PPD less than 20% is considered good and that means 80% of occupants are satisfied with the thermal environment.

Naturally ventilated buildings designs can perform efficiently in hot climate countries, like Malaysia because of their low evaporation rate, long hours of sunshine and high relative humidity.

Many published studies show that the human thermal sensation in a naturally ventilated environment is much better than that in a mechanically controlled thermal environment.


The automotive industry is considered the single largest manufacturing sector in the world [29] . Malaysia has obtained much recognition regionally and internationally for its outstanding achievement in automotive industry since the first national car, the Proton Saga was introduced in 1985 [30] . In Malaysia, the automotive industry is broadly classified into two major sectors which are manufacturing or assembly of motor vehicles and components as well as parts manufacturing such as body parts.

The automotive industry is considered the single largest manufacturing sector in the world.

Malaysia has obtained much recognition regionally and internationally for its outstanding achievement in automotive industry since the first national car, the Proton Saga was introduced in 1985.


Ferrites are one of the most studied magnetic systems and there have been a lot of reports on experimental and theoretical investigations on this material. Since a spinel ferrite is a multi-element oxide material having the formula AB 2 O 4 (where A and B represents tetrahedral and octahedral lattice sites respectively), it can be fabricated by substituting various magnetic and non-magnetic ions for obtaining the specific properties. The substitution of elements and their compositions greatly affect the magnetic moments, lattice parameters and exchange interactions [4, 5] .

The substitution of elements and their compositions greatly affect the magnetic moments, lattice parameters and exchange interactions.


The variation of the lattice parameter (a o ) with Cr content (x) is presented in Figure 2 . The lattice parameter decreases with increased substitution of Cr 3+ ions in the spinel oxides MgCr x Fe 2-x O 4 . This can be explained on the basis of the relative ionic radii of Cr 3+ and Fe 3+ ions present in the system. Since Cr 3+ ions have smaller ionic radii (0.615Å), than those of Fe 3+ ions (0.645Å) in the octahedral sites, a partial replacement of the Fe 3+ ions by the Cr 3+ ions causes shrinkage of unit cell dimensions, thereby decreasing the lattice parameter [19] . The lattice parameter decreases gradually with increasing x values satisfying the Vegard's law [20] . The difference in the lattice parameter may also be explained by the cation migration since Cr 3+ ions on the A-site exhibit a smaller ionic radius than on the B-sites because of the covalence effects. The bulk density ( B = m/v) of the system under study were determined from the pellet samples after sintering at 1300˚C. The X-ray density ( x = 8M/Na o 3 ) of the samples have been calculated using the lattice parameter (a o ) obtained from X-ray diffraction measurements. The variation of the X-ray density ( x ) with Cr content in the system is shown in Figure 3 .

Since Cr 3+ ions have smaller ionic radii (0.615Å), than those of Fe 3+ ions (0.645Å) in the octahedral sites, a partial replacement of the Fe 3+ ions by the Cr 3+ ions causes shrinkage of unit cell dimensions, thereby decreasing the lattice parameter.

The lattice parameter decreases gradually with increasing x values satisfying the Vegard's law.


The porosity of the samples have been determined from X-ray density and bulk density using the equation P = 1 - B / x   100. The lattice parameter, X-ray density, bulk density and porosity of MgCr x Fe 2-x O 4 ferrites sintered at 1300˚C are presented in Table 1 . The bulk density is found to be little lower than X-ray density. This is may be due to the existence of pores, which were formed and developed during the sample preparation or the sintering process. The X-ray density and bulk density decrease with the increase of Cr content in the system. This is because of the greater atomic weight of Fe (55.845 gm/mol), while this value for Cr is (51.996 gm/mol) [21] . Porosity of the samples changes monotonically with Cr content (x) in the system as shown in Table 1 .

This is because of the greater atomic weight of Fe (55.845 gm/mol), while this value for Cr is (51.996 gm/mol).


Spinel ferrites have gained much importance in the recent years because of their interesting electrical and magnetic properties [1] . Usually ferrite materials have low conductivity and the order of magnitude of the conductivity greatly influences their dielectric and magnetic behavior [2] . Because of their high resistivity, spinel ferrites are the materials of great interest for high frequency inductive components. The magnetization mechanism contributing to the complex permeability in polycrystalline ferrites have been a controversial subject [3] . The optimization of their dynamic properties such as complex permeability in the high frequency range requires a precise knowledge of magnetization mechanism involved. Although a large number of spinel compounds have been studied, the existing theories and experimental results indicated that a complete understanding of the complex magnetic behavior arising from the change in magnetic ion concentration is yet to be explored.

Spinel ferrites have gained much importance in the recent years because of their interesting electrical and magnetic properties.

Usually ferrite materials have low conductivity and the order of magnitude of the conductivity greatly influences their dielectric and magnetic behavior.

The magnetization mechanism contributing to the complex permeability in polycrystalline ferrites have been a controversial subject.


Fabric reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM) composites were developed to strengthen deteriorated reinforced concrete structures and have been employed during the last two decades [1] . Unlike externally bonded fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) systems, epoxy resin is not used for the FRCM-strengthening method. The FRP fabric used in the FRCM-strengthening method is attached by using a cementitious matrix, an inorganic material, instead of epoxy resin [2] . The use of an inorganic material can solve various problems that result from the use of epoxy resin [3] . The major problems associated with epoxy resin are its low glass transition temperature, difficulty of application at low temperatures, inability to apply to humid surfaces, and lack of vapor permeability [1] . Additionally, FRCM composite has higher fire resistance than externally bonded FRP sheets and laminates [4] . However, the mechanical properties of a cementitious matrix, such as bond strength, are generally lower than those of epoxy resin. Thus, the FRP materials in the FRCM-strengthening method are shaped like fabric or textile to improve the bond strength of the FRP reinforcement [5] .

Fabric reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM) composites were developed to strengthen deteriorated reinforced concrete structures and have been employed during the last two decades.

The FRP fabric used in the FRCM-strengthening method is attached by using a cementitious matrix, an inorganic material, instead of epoxy resin.

The use of an inorganic material can solve various problems that result from the use of epoxy resin.

The major problems associated with epoxy resin are its low glass transition temperature, difficulty of application at low temperatures, inability to apply to humid surfaces, and lack of vapor permeability.

Additionally, FRCM composite has higher fire resistance than externally bonded FRP sheets and laminates.

Thus, the FRP materials in the FRCM-strengthening method are shaped like fabric or textile to improve the bond strength of the FRP reinforcement.


The existence of very massive particles X, with mass m X TeV, is a generic prediction of many well-motivated extensions of the Standard Model (SM) of particle physics, such as Grand Unified Theories, extra-dimensional models inspired by String Theory or supersymmetric constructions. If such particles are stable and still present in our universe today, they can contribute to the dark matter, in which case a variety of detection strategies has been explored depending on their mass range and the nature of their interactions. On the other hand, unstable particles beyond the Standard Model (BSM) are very difficult to probe experimentally. The best chances are through their effects on cosmological observables. The strongest limits come from Big-Bang Nucleosynthesis (BBN), since any heavy relic which decays after BBN would ruin the predicted abundances of light elements. From BBN, one obtains general model-independent bounds in the plane (τ X , m X Y X ) where τ X is their lifetime, m X their mass and m X Y X is their would-be contribution to the total energy density of the universe today if they had not decayed [1] [2] [3] [4] . We can therefore infer indirect information on their couplings through the constraints on their lifetime and the efficiency of their production mechanism in the early universe. In the present work, we show how a large new region unexplored so far in the (τ X , m X Y X ) plane can be probed using future gravitational-wave observatories.

From BBN, one obtains general model-independent bounds in the plane (τ X , m X Y X ) where τ X is their lifetime, m X their mass and m X Y X is their would-be contribution to the total energy density of the universe today if they had not decayed.


Air traffic demand is expected to increase dramatically in the next 20 years [7] . At this higher level of traffic, human controllers may not be able to safely separate aircraft. Automated separation assurance systems are envisioned that will safely and 3.E.3-2 efficiently separate aircraft in this highly dense system [4] . Human controllers are limited by the cognitive workload associated with separating the aircraft for which they are responsible, and MAP thresholds are the means by which that workload is kept manageable. Automated separation assurance systems are not limited by cognitive workload, so a more appropriate complexity metric for such automation is needed.

Air traffic demand is expected to increase dramatically in the next 20 years.

Automated separation assurance systems are envisioned that will safely and 3.E.3-2 efficiently separate aircraft in this highly dense system.


Although dyspnea is a respiratory sensation, cough is a motor action typically preceded by a respiratory sensation such as an awareness of an irritating stimulus and is perceived as a need to cough, termed the urge-tocough [5] . Urge-to-cough is a component of the brain motivation system that mediates the cognitive responses of cough stimuli [6] . Cough reflex sensitivity is severely diminished during general anesthesia or sleep [7, 8] . In patients with congenital central hypoventilation syndrome and aspiration pneumonia, both the cough reflex sensitivity and the cognition of cough are significantly impaired [9, 10] . These studies suggest that the initiation of a cough reflex response is facilitated by the cognition of the urge-to-cough.

Although dyspnea is a respiratory sensation, cough is a motor action typically preceded by a respiratory sensation such as an awareness of an irritating stimulus and is perceived as a need to cough, termed the urge-tocough.

Urge-to-cough is a component of the brain motivation system that mediates the cognitive responses of cough stimuli.

Cough reflex sensitivity is severely diminished during general anesthesia or sleep.

In patients with congenital central hypoventilation syndrome and aspiration pneumonia, both the cough reflex sensitivity and the cognition of cough are significantly impaired.


Pharmaceutical and biological therapeutics are often limited by short half-lives, poor bioavailability, and physical or chemical instability [13] . Stimuli-responsive (self-regulated) drug delivery systems have been investigated for their applications in pulsatile delivery of certain hormone drugs. Among all systems studied, temperature and pH-responsive delivery systems in particular have drawn much attention considering that some disease states manifest themselves by a change in temperature and/or pH [14] . One relevant application corresponds to the development of delivery devices based on a novel squeezing concept, which relies upon specific swellingdeswelling characteristics under specific temperatures, or temperature/pHs [15] .

Pharmaceutical and biological therapeutics are often limited by short half-lives, poor bioavailability, and physical or chemical instability.

Among all systems studied, temperature and pH-responsive delivery systems in particular have drawn much attention considering that some disease states manifest themselves by a change in temperature and/or pH.

One relevant application corresponds to the development of delivery devices based on a novel squeezing concept, which relies upon specific swellingdeswelling characteristics under specific temperatures, or temperature/pHs.


Radiation synthesis of stimuli-responsive polymers and adsorbents is a wide field of important applications of radiation technology [10] . Radiation graft polymerization has been widely used for over 50 years throughout polymer chemistry. Typically, it involves the creation of reactive sites (radicals) on the polymer surface followed by covalent linkage of a preformed polymer or, more frequently by the polymerization of a monomer from those radical sites [11] . Grafting techniques present advantages over conventional approaches with regard to the development of thin functional films for several reasons. They include easy and controllable introduction of polymer chains with a high surface density, precise localization of the chain at the surface and long stability of the grafted layers among others [12] .

Radiation synthesis of stimuli-responsive polymers and adsorbents is a wide field of important applications of radiation technology.

Typically, it involves the creation of reactive sites (radicals) on the polymer surface followed by covalent linkage of a preformed polymer or, more frequently by the polymerization of a monomer from those radical sites.

They include easy and controllable introduction of polymer chains with a high surface density, precise localization of the chain at the surface and long stability of the grafted layers among others.