Cities are growing faster than ever before. In 1950, only 30% of the total world population was living in cities. Today, this datum stands around 54%. By 2050, the estimates project that 66% of the total world population will be urban, with cities in developing countries attracting the greatest number of new city dwellers [1] . Urbanisation is regarded by institutions and governments as a positive phenomenon as it brings, for example, better and less costly public services and improved living standards due to the concentration of economic activities [2] . However, this very same phenomenon is also reported to bring more inequality worldwide, with some areas benefiting more from public investments and economic growth than others [3] . It is thus necessary to develop a better understanding of the relationship between physical features of the urban environment and socio-economic levels of city dwellers, to inform urbanists and city planners.

Today, this datum stands around 54%.

By 2050, the estimates project that 66% of the total world population will be urban, with cities in developing countries attracting the greatest number of new city dwellers.

Urbanisation is regarded by institutions and governments as a positive phenomenon as it brings, for example, better and less costly public services and improved living standards due to the concentration of economic activities.

However, this very same phenomenon is also reported to bring more inequality worldwide, with some areas benefiting more from public investments and economic growth than others.


GC patient survivals after recurrence have rarely been documented in previous studies [23, 24] . In our previously study, the majority of GC patients with early recurrence (within two years) died within two years, and CD44 was an independent predictor of early recurrence [25] . The results of this study, consistent with the data of our previously study, demonstrated that GC patients with recurrence, especially for those with high-expression of CD163, had a significant correlation with poor survival (P<0.005).

GC patient survivals after recurrence have rarely been documented in previous studies.

In our previously study, the majority of GC patients with early recurrence (within two years) died within two years, and CD44 was an independent predictor of early recurrence.


Sucrose concentration in sugarcane internodes is correlated with AI activity and maturation (Zhu et al. 1997) . Acid invertase activity was high in apoplast and vacuoles of young, actively growing internodes and almost absent from the mature internodes (Miron and Schaffer 1990) . Neutral invertase presents at low level in very young tissue and at greater levels in older tissue (Hatch et al. 1963; Batta and Singh 1986) . It has been proposed that NI regulates sucrose movement from vascular to storage tissue in mature internodes or that it is involved in the turnover of hexoses in mature tissue (Gayler and Glasziou 1972; Bosch et al. 2004) .

Sucrose concentration in sugarcane internodes is correlated with AI activity and maturation.

Acid invertase activity was high in apoplast and vacuoles of young, actively growing internodes and almost absent from the mature internodes.

Neutral invertase presents at low level in very young tissue and at greater levels in older tissue.

It has been proposed that NI regulates sucrose movement from vascular to storage tissue in mature internodes or that it is involved in the turnover of hexoses in mature tissue.


Sucrose yield of sugarcane stem depends on two interlinked processes: biomass production and sucrose concentration (Ebrahim et al. 1998) . The ability to accumulate such high sucrose concentration in harvested stem is the net result of sucrose synthesis and breakdown (Huber and Huber 1992a) . Sugar metabolism is regulated by several enzymes such as invertases (E.C. 3.2.1.26), sucrose synthase (E.C. 2.4.1. 13), and sucrose-phosphate synthase (E.C. 2.4.1.14) (Sugiharto et al. 1997; Rose and Botha 2000; Bosch et al. 2004; Mao et al. 2005) . Invertases cleave sucrose to glucose and fructose. They are classified by stability, cellular location, and pH optimum. Based on pH optimum, they are acid invertase (AI) and neutral invertase (NI). Sucrose-phosphate synthase (SPS) synthesizes sucrose-6-phosphate, which is dephosphorylated by sucrose-phosphate phosphatase to form sucrose. Sucrose synthase can either cleave sucrose to UDP-glucose and fructose or catalyze the reverse synthetic reaction. It is widely believed to act in the cleavage direction in vivo.

Sucrose yield of sugarcane stem depends on two interlinked processes: biomass production and sucrose concentration.

The ability to accumulate such high sucrose concentration in harvested stem is the net result of sucrose synthesis and breakdown.

Sugar metabolism is regulated by several enzymes such as invertases (E.C. 3.2.1.26), sucrose synthase (E.C. 2.4.1. 13), and sucrose-phosphate synthase (E.C. 2.4.1.14).


This study proposes an approach based on Raman mapping to chemically characterize a silanized surface and highlight the influence of the silane functionality (i.e., the number of hydrolysable groups) and the chemical composition of the substrate on the surface coverage. HA was chosen as a reference bioceramic material. As a consequence, silicon-substituted HA was retained due to its potentially improved biological properties when compared to HA but also because silicate groups in SiHA could provide preferential sites for silane immobilization at the ceramic surface via Si-O-Si covalent bonding [42] . Two organosilanes containing one and three hydrolysable groups, respectively, were used. The 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) was chosen as it is commonly used and well known for inducing polymerization due to its tri-ethoxy groups, and the 3-aminopropyldimethylethoxysilane (APMES) was chosen to assess the feasibility of the functionalization with mono-functional organosilanes. The properties of silanized ceramic surfaces were characterized by means of three complementary methods: atomic force microscopy for surface topography measurements, contact angle for wettability measurements and calculation of the surface free energy, and Raman spectroscopy to obtain a chemical image of the surface and deduce the surface distribution and the coverage of organosilanes.

As a consequence, silicon-substituted HA was retained due to its potentially improved biological properties when compared to HA but also because silicate groups in SiHA could provide preferential sites for silane immobilization at the ceramic surface via Si-O-Si covalent bonding.


The karst region of southwest China is the largest land degraded ecosystem testifying to the increasingly serious conflicts between degraded vegetation restoration efforts and activities related to agricultural production [28] [29] [30] . Yunnan Province is located in the western part of this region and shows the most acute rocky desertification process in it. As is the case in the Guizhou and Guangxi provinces, the local government and people of Yunnan province have also implemented some well-known agroforestry planting ecosystems to control rocky desertification [31, 32] . However, it is still unclear what pattern is best suited for the local people. In the present study, emergy and economic methods were used to evaluate these agroforestry planting patterns. Our objectives were the following: 1) to assess the emergy value of typical agroforestry planting patterns, 2) to optimize these patterns by adding ecological subsystem, and, 3) to provide the technical support for land use sustainability to the local government and farmers.

The karst region of southwest China is the largest land degraded ecosystem testifying to the increasingly serious conflicts between degraded vegetation restoration efforts and activities related to agricultural production.

As is the case in the Guizhou and Guangxi provinces, the local government and people of Yunnan province have also implemented some well-known agroforestry planting ecosystems to control rocky desertification.


The results presented herein showed that the four basic patterns (CP, AP, PP, PRP) were different in performance, according to emergy analysis (Tables 3 and 4 ). The AP pattern showed lower EPD, EYR, ELR, higher ESI, which is in stark contrast to the PRP pattern. While the former represents a traditional pattern with less manual interference, low input, low output, low pressure, the pomegranate market is competitive, prices vary greatly. Local farmers had to become more industry-oriented while planting pomegranate, thus resorting to new practice, such as bagging, investing more in labor and non-renewable resources. Although different types of resources and input forms were required in these patterns, labor and fertilizer dominated the major contribution to the total input, which was consistent with the China's crop production system [40] .

Although different types of resources and input forms were required in these patterns, labor and fertilizer dominated the major contribution to the total input, which was consistent with the China's crop production system.


The overall performance of corn in the karst region in Yunnan Province is poor; therefore, we propose that the government should advocate the reduction of corn planting. Additionally, although PPP and ASP perform better than corn, the local government needs to introduce appropriate breeding systems to optimize current ASP and PPP [54] . Similarly, PGSP shows attractive ecological and economic benefits, it is still necessary to improve the ratio value for a scientifically standardized aquaculture subsystem in the existing PGSP. Castellini's research on two poultry farms in Italy showed that the adding of grazing to traditional orchard was similar with PGSP [55] . At the same time, it is desirable to attempt the introduction of a biogas system to reuse the increasing stock waste [56, 57] . Because apples, pears, pomegranates together comprise a relatively long harvest period, the local government should also coordinate the establishment of a temporary labor market to meet the demand for labor.

Additionally, although PPP and ASP perform better than corn, the local government needs to introduce appropriate breeding systems to optimize current ASP and PPP.

Castellini's research on two poultry farms in Italy showed that the adding of grazing to traditional orchard was similar with PGSP.

At the same time, it is desirable to attempt the introduction of a biogas system to reuse the increasing stock waste.


Propylene glycol (1,2-propanediol) is a colourless, slightly viscous liquid with a faintly sweet taste [1] . Since it is miscible with water, alcohol and many flavour compounds, and relatively inexpensive, it is an extensively used flavour solvent in the food industry. The chemical structure of propylene glycol is well known and contains two hydroxyl groups that can directly react with some flavour compounds including vanillin. The flavour carrier solvent can also interact with the food matrix in a number of ways either through chemical reactions or physical modifications [2] .

Propylene glycol (1,2-propanediol) is a colourless, slightly viscous liquid with a faintly sweet taste.

The flavour carrier solvent can also interact with the food matrix in a number of ways either through chemical reactions or physical modifications.


The dual role of Ot and Vc in reducing initial damage and enhancing repair processes is further established by DNA damage and repair analysis of mouse splenocytes using the comet assay. The comet assay provides a highly sensitive indicator of DNA strand breaks in individual mammalian cells [29] . The presence of Ot and Vc during exposure of the splenocytes reduced DNA damage and facilitated faster repair.. Comet profile at later post-irradiation times as well as CRI indicate that Vc and Ot were more effective in repairing RT-induced damage, while both flavonoids increased repair capacity of the splenocytes compared to 4 Gy-irradiated group.

The comet assay provides a highly sensitive indicator of DNA strand breaks in individual mammalian cells.


In both DPPH and ABTS assays, Ot demonstrated superior radical scavenging activity to Vc. Protection against hydroxyl radicalinduced plasmid DNA damage by Ot was similarly higher that Vc (discussed next). Luteolin, the parent structure of Ot, is associated with higher antioxidant activity than apigenin, the parent molecule of Vc [24] . Apigenin, with three hydroxyl groups at 5, 7 and 4´ positions, was associated with a small antioxidant activity, while luteolin, with an additional hydroxyl group at 3´ position, was significantly more protective against oxidative DNA damage in lymphocytes than apigenin [25] . We hypothesize that the presence of a similar hydroxyl group in Ot explains the higher radical scavenging activity observed.

Luteolin, the parent structure of Ot, is associated with higher antioxidant activity than apigenin, the parent molecule of Vc.

Apigenin, with three hydroxyl groups at 5, 7 and 4´ positions, was associated with a small antioxidant activity, while luteolin, with an additional hydroxyl group at 3´ position, was significantly more protective against oxidative DNA damage in lymphocytes than apigenin.


In the formalism of connection-dynamics for GR, however, when we perform background-independent quantization like the spin-foam models, in principle the local measure factor should not be simply ignored, because the regularization arguments in background-dependent quantization are not motivated in the background-independent context anymore. For example, the spin-foam models are defined on a triangulation of the spacetime manifold with a finite number of vertices, where at each vertex the value of the local measure factor is finite, and the action also doesn't show any divergence. Thus in principle one has to consider the quantum effect implied by this local measure factor in the context of spin-foam model, if one wants to relate the spin-foam model to the canonical theory. An immediate consequence is that the crossing symmetry in spin-foam model may be broken by the spatial volume measure factor, which is consistent with the canonical LQG in terms of Hamiltonian constraint operator and master constraint operator [15] .

An immediate consequence is that the crossing symmetry in spin-foam model may be broken by the spatial volume measure factor, which is consistent with the canonical LQG in terms of Hamiltonian constraint operator and master constraint operator.


The liberalisation of European local public transport companies has introduced some discontinuities in the industry in the last few decades, including new tendering and financing methods and the development of competition (Shaw, 2000) . The primary goal of the reform process was to force rail companies to improve the quality of the services they offer to the general public while ensuring economically sustainable management of the business (Crompton and Jupe, 2002; Wolmar, 2001) . The new regulatory context requires rail companies to introduce management and accounting tools that can support these ambitious objectives. In particular, measurement of costs is important both for internal efficiency (e.g., control of items such as labour costs) and for external accountability (e.g., requests for contributions to cover losses) (Humphreys and Francis., 2002) . This study investigates the features of the cost accounting system that companies in the railway transport industry should adopt in order to support the new dynamics of the liberalisation process.

The liberalisation of European local public transport companies has introduced some discontinuities in the industry in the last few decades, including new tendering and financing methods and the development of competition.

The primary goal of the reform process was to force rail companies to improve the quality of the services they offer to the general public while ensuring economically sustainable management of the business.

In particular, measurement of costs is important both for internal efficiency (e.g., control of items such as labour costs) and for external accountability (e.g., requests for contributions to cover losses).


Hepatitis is an endemic infection in many countries around the world including countries in the Middle East [1] . There are several viruses that target primarily the liver and cause hepatitis. These include viral hepatitis type A, B, C, D, E, and G [2] . Hepatitis A and E viruses are transmitted mainly by fecal-oral routes and usually cause acute enteric hepatitis. On the other hand, hepatitis B, C, D, and G viruses are transmitted parentally, and thus they can be transmitted sexually or through contaminated blood, and may cause acute and chronic hepatitis [3, 4] . Hepatitis B and C viruses are among the most studied viruses, and they were the predominant types of viral hepatitis in Saudi Arabia between 2000 and 2005, with HBV comprising 49.3% and HCV comprising 40.7% of the identified cases [5] . On the other hand, very little information is available about hepatitis G virus (HGV) infection and pathogenesis. Also, its prevalence in healthy individuals and chronically infected hepatitis patients has not been comprehensively studied.

Hepatitis is an endemic infection in many countries around the world including countries in the Middle East.

These include viral hepatitis type A, B, C, D, E, and G.

On the other hand, hepatitis B, C, D, and G viruses are transmitted parentally, and thus they can be transmitted sexually or through contaminated blood, and may cause acute and chronic hepatitis.

Hepatitis B and C viruses are among the most studied viruses, and they were the predominant types of viral hepatitis in Saudi Arabia between 2000 and 2005, with HBV comprising 49.3% and HCV comprising 40.7% of the identified cases.


Self-rated health is a reflection of a person's psychological, social, and physical health that a single measure of morbidity cannot measure [1] . Because of the close ties between self-rated health and this larger picture of health, poor self-rated health is strongly correlated with premature mortality [1] . Because self-rated health encompasses the physical and emotional aspects of health itself, understanding how multiple social, physical health, and environmental factors influence self-rated health can provide a better picture of how to improve health ratings and by extension, reduce premature mortality.

Self-rated health is a reflection of a person's psychological, social, and physical health that a single measure of morbidity cannot measure.

Because of the close ties between self-rated health and this larger picture of health, poor self-rated health is strongly correlated with premature mortality.


Note that if an ergodic system has discrete spectrum, then it has to be isomorphic to an equicontinuous system, but this isomorphism is not necessarily given by the maximal equicontinuous factor map (actually every ergodic system has a uniquely ergodic mixing topological model [27] ). In other words, the Kronecker factor in the Halmos-Von Neumann Theorem may be strictly bigger than the maximal equicontinuous factor, and this is the case if and only if there exist L 2 (µ)-eigenfunctions that are not continuous. Hence, the last property is strictly weaker than the previous one.

Note that if an ergodic system has discrete spectrum, then it has to be isomorphic to an equicontinuous system, but this isomorphism is not necessarily given by the maximal equicontinuous factor map (actually every ergodic system has a uniquely ergodic mixing topological model).


However, even in the case of discrete spectrum, strictly ergodic systems may be very different from a group rotation. Surprisingly, recent work has shown that the family of all topological dynamical systems that are strictly ergodic models of discrete spectrum systems may exhibit a rich range of behaviours (from a topological point of view) [28, 14, 6, 11, 17, 22] . It turns out that these properties can be classified in a natural hierarchy, in which the best-understood systems with topological discrete spectrum -namely the equicontinuous systems -just present the simplest subclass and only a small fraction of the whole family. Apart from the intrinsic interest, the aim for a better understanding of this class of systems is also motivated by mathematical studies of quasicrystals, whose associated dynamical models often fall into this category (that is, they combine strict ergodicity and discrete spectrum [3] ).

Surprisingly, recent work has shown that the family of all topological dynamical systems that are strictly ergodic models of discrete spectrum systems may exhibit a rich range of behaviours (from a topological point of view).

Apart from the intrinsic interest, the aim for a better understanding of this class of systems is also motivated by mathematical studies of quasicrystals, whose associated dynamical models often fall into this category (that is, they combine strict ergodicity and discrete spectrum).


Multisystem traumatic injury is a significant risk factor for the development of a deep venous thrombosis (DVT). Without thromboprophylaxis, overall DVT rates exceed 50% [1] [2] [3] . Although DVT alone is not life-threatening, a resulting pulmonary embolism (PE) carries potentially significant morbidity and mortality. PE is estimated to be the third leading cause of death in injured patients who survive beyond the first day of admission [2, [4] [5] [6] . Trauma patients at the highest risk have been identified as those with a lower extremity or pelvic fracture, spinal cord injury, brain injury (Glasgow Coma Score < 8), increased age, surgical intervention, femoral central venous catheter, and prolonged immobilization [2, 3, [7] [8] [9] .

Without thromboprophylaxis, overall DVT rates exceed 50%.

PE is estimated to be the third leading cause of death in injured patients who survive beyond the first day of admission.

Trauma patients at the highest risk have been identified as those with a lower extremity or pelvic fracture, spinal cord injury, brain injury (Glasgow Coma Score < 8), increased age, surgical intervention, femoral central venous catheter, and prolonged immobilization.


The allocation of energy to various activities during the development of an organism has ecological significance. The process of growth, development and reproduction in a plant may be seen as a strategy of allocation of limited resources. Some species exhaust more energy on vegetative propagules, others exhaust relatively large proportions of their energy on perennating organs or on height expenditure or competitive ability rather on potential multiplication, others may expend significant proportion of their resources on extensive root systems or on the development of spines, defense chemicals or large and attractive flower parts (Cody, 1966; Harper, 1967) .

Some species exhaust more energy on vegetative propagules, others exhaust relatively large proportions of their energy on perennating organs or on height expenditure or competitive ability rather on potential multiplication, others may expend significant proportion of their resources on extensive root systems or on the development of spines, defense chemicals or large and attractive flower parts.


Coupling sc CO 2 and extrusion modifies the rheological properties of the polymer while flowing through the barrel of the extruder [5] . The reduction of viscosity decreases the mechanical constraints and the operating temperature within the extruder. Thus, this may allow the use of fragile or thermolabile molecules, like active pharmaceutical ingredients. Furthermore, the absence of residues in the final material is also an advantage for pharmaceutical applications [6, 7] .

Coupling sc CO 2 and extrusion modifies the rheological properties of the polymer while flowing through the barrel of the extruder.

Furthermore, the absence of residues in the final material is also an advantage for pharmaceutical applications.


Amaranth was neglected from the food table for many decades after the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in Latin America as it was used in ceremonial dishes associated with human sacrifice by the Aztecs [1] . It is known for its high tolerance to arid conditions and poor soils, its resistance to drought, heat, and pests, and its ability to adapt to environments where conventional cereal crops do not grow well. Amaranth can thus contribute to food security, especially in resource poor setting [1] [4] . Despite the very wide distribution of amaranth in Ethiopia, it is cultivated as intercropped with sorghum and maize mainly by Me'enit people who live in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region (SNNPR). The most frequent mode of consumption of amaranth grains by these people is after popping and milling, and by mixing the flour with other cereal flours such as teff, sorghum, barley and wheat to prepare bread, injera and porridge.

Amaranth was neglected from the food table for many decades after the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in Latin America as it was used in ceremonial dishes associated with human sacrifice by the Aztecs.

Amaranth can thus contribute to food security, especially in resource poor setting.


The effect of a drug can now be reinforced as a result of the development of new release systems. Controlled release consists of techniques that make the active chemical agents available for a target, providing an adequate release rate and duration to produce the desired effect. The main controlled drug delivery systems currently available include matrices, pellets, floating systems, liposomes, microemulsions, liquid crystals, solid dispersions, nanosuspensions, transdermal systems, cyclodextrin inclusion complexes, osmotic pumps and bioadhesive systems (Wise, 2000) .

The main controlled drug delivery systems currently available include matrices, pellets, floating systems, liposomes, microemulsions, liquid crystals, solid dispersions, nanosuspensions, transdermal systems, cyclodextrin inclusion complexes, osmotic pumps and bioadhesive systems.


Carbon black-filled rubber on the virgin loading shows significant hysteresis during the load-unload-reload-unload cycle, which is called the Mullins effect. The Mullins effect mainly depends on the proportion of filler in the rubber composites [1] . The Mullins effect is negligible in unfilled rubber but becomes obvious in rubber filled with a high carbon black content. The difference in stress during the first loading and unloading paths of a virgin carbon black-filled rubber specimen is greater than for any other loading and unloading cycle. The hysteresis area enclosed by the stress-strain curve between loading and unloading represents the dissipated energy. If some cycles with a constant stretch amplitude are conducted, the hysteresis area stabilizes. With some loading cycles, the stress heals after a certain amount of recovery time. The energy dissipation of rubber after a recovery is less than that of virgin rubber, but each subsequent stretching is always less severe than the previous stretching [2] .

The Mullins effect mainly depends on the proportion of filler in the rubber composites.

The energy dissipation of rubber after a recovery is less than that of virgin rubber, but each subsequent stretching is always less severe than the previous stretching.


The demand for higher data rates in wireless networks is unrelenting, and has triggered the design and development of new data-minded cellular standards such as WiMAX (802.16e), 3GPP's High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) and LTE standards, and 3GPP2's EVDO and UMB standards. In parallel, Wi-Fi mesh networks also are being developed to provide nomadic highrate data services in a more distributed fashion [1] . Although the Wi-Fi networks will not be able to support the same level of mobility and coverage as the cellular standards, to be competitive for home and office use, cellular data systems will need to provide service roughly comparable to that offered by Wi-Fi networks.

In parallel, Wi-Fi mesh networks also are being developed to provide nomadic highrate data services in a more distributed fashion.


Database compilation: Building up the database is the first important task of this work. This database contains more than 1400 solubility experimental data, collected from 35 references for 10 polycyclic aromatic pollutants, namely acenaphtene, anthracene, chrysene, fluoranthene, fluorene, naphthalene, phenanthrene, pyrene, perylene and triphenylene in supercritical carbon dioxide. Table 3 lists the different solid solute used in this work together with the number of solubility data points, and the lower and upper limits of the operating conditions and the references. Detailed information about all the complete references from which experimental solubility data were taken are provided in table 4. Model regression: As mentioned earlier, the interaction parameters 12 a and 21 a were regressed through the optimization of the adjustable parameters 12 , 12 , 21 and 21 . These fitting parameters were evaluated by minimizing the objective function given in equation (14) . The optimization method is based on the minimization of a multivariable function using a Newton+ search algorithm with forward derivatives.

These fitting parameters were evaluated by minimizing the objective function given in equation.


Assume one needs to describe the behaviour of two languages, one in the domain of Production Systems (where parts are produced and consumed by machines) and the other for Communication Networks (where packets are produced and consumed by computers). The most immediate approach is to define one program to simulate the first kind of models, and another one to simulate the second kind of models. This situation is illustrated in Fig. 4 . In the figure, we assume that behaviours are realized using EOL programs, however our discussion and subsequent proposal based on concepts are applicable to other means of specification of in-place model transformations, like e.g. graph transformation [20] .

In the figure, we assume that behaviours are realized using EOL programs, however our discussion and subsequent proposal based on concepts are applicable to other means of specification of in-place model transformations, like e.g. graph transformation.


Marginally productive agricultural lands can include small, complexly shaped, non-irrigated portions of agricultural fields [5] . However, soil type, mean annual precipitation, and irrigation limitations could be important identifiers of marginally productive croplands. Some non-irrigated fields may be productive if they receive adequate precipitation and lie on fertile soils, and therefore should not be considered marginal. Alternatively, larger, non-irrigated fields on poor soils and in dry areas could be considered marginally productive. Although agricultural productivity is likely to influence landuse, individual farmers decide how to manage their land, and therefore, not all marginally productive fields may be converted to bioenergy production. Furthermore, forecasts of future biofuel-based landuse conversions are complicated by the fact that individual landowner decisions are difficult to predict.

Marginally productive agricultural lands can include small, complexly shaped, non-irrigated portions of agricultural fields.


The relationship between AF and CPD is not well understood. Herniated LA appendages have been suggested to be a cause of paroxysmal AF [1] . Furthermore, enlargement of the LA and LA appendages due to herniation, as in our patient, may contribute to the development of persistent AF, and may even be its cause [7] .

Herniated LA appendages have been suggested to be a cause of paroxysmal AF.

Furthermore, enlargement of the LA and LA appendages due to herniation, as in our patient, may contribute to the development of persistent AF, and may even be its cause.


Initial antibiotics are administered before the culture results have been obtained [5, 13] . High dose intravenous penicillin G, combined with metronidazole, or a combination of ceftriaxone and clindamycin were very effective in our study. Such combinations cover the oral mixed flora responsible for DNIs. Penicillin would be the drug of choice for aerobic Staphylococcus pyogenes, groups A, B, C, G, and H Streptococcus and most Clostridia species. Clindamycin will provide adequate therapy against anaerobes that are resistant to penicillin G. Gentamycin provides antibiosis against most aerobic gram negative bacilli including Pseudomonas aeroginosa [13] .

Initial antibiotics are administered before the culture results have been obtained.

Clindamycin will provide adequate therapy against anaerobes that are resistant to penicillin G. Gentamycin provides antibiosis against most aerobic gram negative bacilli including Pseudomonas aeroginosa.


Using FO crossbred sires on a national scale by Ministry of Agriculture for mating the domestic flock ewes was due to that the studies showed that varying proportions of germ plasm from highly prolific breeds such as the Finnsheep can be realized through the use of crossbred sires to set reproductive rates at desired levels. In other words, the use of composite F1 sires can be used as effective method to optimize the additive breed effects to a great extent. The same studies showed that the progeny of crossbred and purebred sires were similar in weights at birth and weaning, post-weaning growth rate and in phenotypic variation for these growth traits (LEYMASTER 1987) .

The same studies showed that the progeny of crossbred and purebred sires were similar in weights at birth and weaning, post-weaning growth rate and in phenotypic variation for these growth traits.


There is a large body of work on query optimisation for minimising query response time in distributed DBMSs [29, 16] . Optimisation algorithms, such as INGRES and R*, are based on greedy heuristics and exhaustive enumeration of all possible query execution plans. This is infeasible in a largescale CEP system with many processing nodes. In addition, CEP systems require cost models that take the long-lived nature of queries into account.

There is a large body of work on query optimisation for minimising query response time in distributed DBMSs.


Between these philosophical discourses, global values, and individual attitudes, this contribution aims at highlighting the role of HEIs in a regenerative sustainability transition in four main moments: in the introduction, old and new definition of sustainability are depicted from a policy/abstract level. Then, the second section analyzes the issue of sustainability transitions at the individual scale, where influencing factors and value-behavior links are presented as reviewed from a number of multi and transdisciplinary scholars' works. The third section enlarges the picture to the global dimension, tracing the ideological steps of our current environmental crisis from the differences in prevailing western and eastern values, tradition, and perspectives, to the technological fallacy and the power of the narratives of changes. Finally, the task of our role as academic in the next revolutionary "integrative humanities" science is outlined, as education is envisaged as an essential element of moving towards regenerative paradigms [11] .

Finally, the task of our role as academic in the next revolutionary "integrative humanities" science is outlined, as education is envisaged as an essential element of moving towards regenerative paradigms.


Terms can be corpus-or genre-specific. Manually constructed general-purpose lexical resources include many usages that are infrequent in a particular cor- [14] . This usage of the term is practically never used in newspaper articles, hence distributional attributes should be taken into consideration when creating a linear ordering of terms.

Terms can be corpus-or genre-specific.

Manually constructed general-purpose lexical resources include many usages that are infrequent in a particular cor.


In addition, with the purpose of investigating the crystal structure and purity of the as-prepared products, the typical XRD patterns of all samples were measured from 2θ angle values of 20-80°. The nanostructures obtained from C16Py at different amounts were taken as an example, as shown in Fig. 5 (A) . Though synthesized from pyridinium derivatives of different amounts, the structures of the resulting nanostructures are similar. All the featured XRD peaks can be indexed as a face-centred cubic (FCC) FeNi 3 alloy, consistent with the standard card (JCPDS card no. 38-0419, space group Pm3m (221); cell parameter α = 0.3545 nm). When compared with standard patterns, the nanostructures presented the (111) preferred orientation characteristics [27, 29] . No XRD peaks for Fe and (FCC)-Ni can be observed. In addition, no impurity phases such as iron-nickel oxides and hydroxides were detected. Similar XRD curves were obtained for nanoparticles from BiPy as a template.

When compared with standard patterns, the nanostructures presented the (111) preferred orientation characteristics.


Moreover, the experimental data indicated that the effect of concentrations of pyridinium derivatives did not seem sensitive to regulating the prepared morphologies. As cationic pyridinium derivatives, C16Py and BiPy molecules have positively charged pyridinium headgroups and long hydrophobic alkyl chains. In a colloid dispersion with a high pH value, iron-nickel nanostructures carry negative surface charges in the solution, which create a strong repulsive force inhibiting the aggregation of the particles. At the same time, cationically charged molecules can adsorb on the negatively charged surface of the particles and effectively reduce the overall charge on the surfaces, leading to a reduced repulsive force [31] [32] . In the present work, the cationic pyridinium compounds were absorbed on the particle surface of nanostructures to reduce the overall charge, and which were responsible for the formation of small protuberances or wrinkles on the particles' surfaces. It should be noted that at present, the obtained alloy nanoparticles showed uneven surfaces with grey shadows in TEM pictures. The grey shadow may be caused by the aggregation of alkyl chains in stabilizers. In addition, the roughness of the surface can be attributed to the reduced charge and anisotropic aggregation of pyridine rings absorbed on the particle surface.

At the same time, cationically charged molecules can adsorb on the negatively charged surface of the particles and effectively reduce the overall charge on the surfaces, leading to a reduced repulsive force.


Hail is defined as precipitation in the form of ice that has a diameter of at least 5 mm (Rinehart, 1997) . Hail usually ranges from 5 mm to about 10 cm in diameter. However, hail of higher dimension is recorded in some cases. On 14 September 1972 hail of 14 cm length along the higher dimension was recorded near Coffeeville, Kansas, USA. Hailstorm is regarded as a natural hazard, which causes extensive Correspondence to: U. K. De (deutpal2003@yahoo.com) damage to standing crop, building structure and injuries to cattle and human beings, leading sometimes to death. It is also an aviation hazard. So, effective hailwarning should be considered as a boon to any affected society. From Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) observation, it can be warned 15 min in advance; but modelling study is supposed to provide more advance warning, if proper parameterization can be developed for conversion of water vapour/liquid water into ice. There have been some attempts to forecast hailstorm using synoptic parametrs only (Misra and Prasad, 1980) . We need clear understanding of the mechanism leading to hailstorm. From that standpoint, simulation of any hailstorm has important significance.

Hail is defined as precipitation in the form of ice that has a diameter of at least 5 mm.

It is also an aviation hazard.

There have been some attempts to forecast hailstorm using synoptic parametrs only.


Cold is one of the most common abiotic stresses that adversely affect crop growth and development. Previous studies have indicated that plants increase their cold tolerance when exposed to nonfreezing temperatures through an adaptive process called cold acclimation, which is associated with a number of biochemical and physiologic changes [1] . These changes are correlated with changes in gene expression.

Previous studies have indicated that plants increase their cold tolerance when exposed to nonfreezing temperatures through an adaptive process called cold acclimation, which is associated with a number of biochemical and physiologic changes.


Several reports suggested that phytochemicals such as cur-cumin and resveratrol can potentiate the anticancer activity of chemotherapeutic agents like 5-fluorouracil [207, 208] . Hence, phytochemicals are emerging as novel CSCs eliminating agents as well as lead compounds for anticancer drug discovery. Several phytochemical analogs and drug delivery systems with improved anticancer activity and enhanced stability are developed and currently being tested in the laboratory and clinical settings. Therefore, it is proposed that some of these phytochemicals or their analogs may serve as CSCs eliminating agents for the treatment of cancer in the future. The cited studies in this review article have been conducted in vitro and in animal models in vivo, and for this reason, the actual suitability of phytochemicals to counteract breast cancer cell growth should be evaluated in human patients through large-scale clinical studies. A pictorial representation of phytochemicals targeting major CSCs signaling pathways.

Several reports suggested that phytochemicals such as cur-cumin and resveratrol can potentiate the anticancer activity of chemotherapeutic agents like 5-fluorouracil.


This paper proposes a comprehensive model of the solar branch of HRES considering the dynamics and constraints that arise due to connecting the components together. A platform for simulation of the solar branch of HRES for the entire of one day is also presented. The developed simulator extracts the required parameters for solar irradiance and PV module modelling from meteorological data and the module datasheet, respectively. Figure 1 illustrates the standalone solar power system topology selected for this study. It is based on a parallel topology that has superior performance comparing with other topologies [6] . The PV array is connected to the DC bus, where the wind turbine (WT) can also be connected, via an MPP tracker (MPPT) equipped converter. Without losing generality, the battery bank can be connected to DC bus directly; however, it can also be connected through a controller. While the PV array and the WT always generate power, the electrical load consumes energy and the battery bank exhibits both producing and absorbing behaviours.

It is based on a parallel topology that has superior performance comparing with other topologies.


This work aimed to review the related papers systematically to gain a better understanding of the efficacy of gabapentin in the treatment of postoperative pain after THA. Our results showed that compared with the control group, a significant reduction in cumulative narcotic consumption was found at 24 h postoperatively. This finding shares the same views with previous systematic studies examining the effect of gabapentin in different surgeries [12, 22, 23] .

This finding shares the same views with previous systematic studies examining the effect of gabapentin in different surgeries.


Conformal field theory dual to the Einstein gravity with a finite number of matter fields must satisfy the gap condition: such a theory can contain only a small number of primary fields whose operator products generate all primary fields up to a certain energy scale, which can be made parametrically large in the large N limit. The bulk reconstruction argument seems to suggest that the converse is also true [23, 24] . If we accept this premise, our conjecture would imply that non-supersymmetric conformal field theories cannot satisfy the gap condition.

The bulk reconstruction argument seems to suggest that the converse is also true.


An critical step in allocating crops in most rotations is identifying the crop most favoured by the grower. This may be the most profitable crop in a commercial system or a staple food crop in a subsistence system. In parts of the UK, this primary crop has changed from spring barley in the 1960s, through winter barley in the 1970s, to winter wheat since the 1980s (Wibberley, 1996) . Growers will typically aim to grow as much of the preferred crop as possible, on a cyclical basis.

In parts of the UK, this primary crop has changed from spring barley in the 1960s, through winter barley in the 1970s, to winter wheat since the 1980s.


The third rule relates to within-year cycles. The timing of sowing and harvest are dependent on interactions between the crop and the climate, and one crop usually must be harvested before the next crop can be sown. For example, in the UK, there is a constraint against planting an autumn-sown cereal crop in the same year after a spring-sown sugar beet crop, because sugar beet harvesting usually occurs between October and January. Obviously, inter-annual variations in climate can modify the constraints operating in a given season, and therefore growers require flexibility within crop rotations to overcome such problems. Late harvesting due to low temperature or high autumn rainfall can restrict autumn cultivations to such an extent that the following crops will perforce be spring-rather than autumn-sown. Indeed, spring-sown oilseed rape is four times more prevalent in arable rotations in Scotland than in England for this reason (Champion et al., 2003) .

Indeed, spring-sown oilseed rape is four times more prevalent in arable rotations in Scotland than in England for this reason.


The highest DP w values were obtained with the A4F-MALS method, lower values with the SEC-MALS method, and the lowest with the SEC-DAD method. The DP w values obtained for original samples prior to accelerated ageing were 10 % lower for SEC-MALS and 19 % lower for SEC-DAD compared with A4F-MALS. The differences between the two SEC methods can be explained by the methods applied for MW determination. MALS provides absolute values, and the obtained data can be deemed real molecular weight values obtained by SEC separation. In contrast, values resulting from procedures using calibration by means of standards for MW determination depend on the type of standards applied and the values of the coefficients K and a used in the Mark-Houwink equation. Polystyrenes with narrow polydispersity and various values of the coefficients K and a are frequently used for calibration in separation of cellulose tricarbanilates in tetrahydrofuran (Kačík et al. 2009; Łojewski et al. 2011) . Differences in molecular weights between separation by A4F and SEC can be explained by the fact that, in the case of SEC, some branched polymers (from hemicelluloses also contained in the samples) become caught on particles of the column filling and exit at larger retention volume than corresponds to their molecular weight. This can cause decrease of molecular weights determined by the SEC method (Podzimek et al. 2001; Podzimek 2014) . Another reason could be shear degradation of high-molecular chains, which occurs during SEC separation but not during A4F. During shear degradation, polymer chains can break into smaller pieces. Shear degradation significantly lowers the polymer chain molar mass. Average molar mass values such as M w and M n will therefore be smaller, and the polydispersity index will increase (Hofe et al. 2011) .

Polystyrenes with narrow polydispersity and various values of the coefficients K and a are frequently used for calibration in separation of cellulose tricarbanilates in tetrahydrofuran.

This can cause decrease of molecular weights determined by the SEC method.

Average molar mass values such as M w and M n will therefore be smaller, and the polydispersity index will increase.


This study shows the complexity of species definitions, especially based on color morphologies. Across much of their ranges, these forms function as distinct species; however, the observed hybrid zone in central Nebraska causes the validity of this conclusion to be questioned. Our findings have important implications for conservation and for monitoring biological diversity. Based on the frequency of hybridization in this group of species in Nebraska all three species could be lumped into a single species. Alternatively, if only morphology is used, hybrids could be viewed as different species, leading to the possibility of four or five species being present. Doing rapid biodiversity assessment in central Nebraska using tiger beetles could result in either underestimating or overestimating tiger beetle diversity or both if citizen scientists were used for these surveys [6] .

Doing rapid biodiversity assessment in central Nebraska using tiger beetles could result in either underestimating or overestimating tiger beetle diversity or both if citizen scientists were used for these surveys.


It was suggested to classify these materials into group I or group II liquids depending on whether they possess a strong or a weak Debye-like process, respectively [18, 33] . In other words, the question is whether the orientational correlation within the monohydroxy alcohol liquids as measured by the Kirkwood factor, g K =1+z〈cosθ〉, is small or large [34] . Here, This is a special issue in honor of Prof. Dr. Friedrich Kremer on the occasion of his 65th birthday.

It was suggested to classify these materials into group I or group II liquids depending on whether they possess a strong or a weak Debye-like process, respectively.

In other words, the question is whether the orientational correlation within the monohydroxy alcohol liquids as measured by the Kirkwood factor, g K =1+z〈cosθ〉, is small or large.


Scarce genetic information on pituicytoma is available for comparison with SCO. Comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) performed on one case of pituicytoma showed multiple copy number imbalances, with losses on 1p, 14q, and 22q and a gain on 5p [39] . This pattern appears distinct from our findings for SCO. Overall, we did not identify any significant copy number profile changes in SCO that have been reported in pituitary adenoma or pituicytoma.

Comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) performed on one case of pituicytoma showed multiple copy number imbalances, with losses on 1p, 14q, and 22q and a gain on 5p.


Projections are that between 2000 and 2050, world population will grow 50%, global economic activity will grow 500%, and global energy and materials use will grow 300%. Commenting on the effects of material resource use on the environment, the heads of major research institutes in the United States, Germany, Japan, Austria, and the Netherlands have noted that unless economic growth can be dramatically decoupled from resource use and waste generation, environmental pressures will increase rapidly (Matthews et al., 2000) . Accordingly, the following issues were identified as a rational for this study.

Commenting on the effects of material resource use on the environment, the heads of major research institutes in the United States, Germany, Japan, Austria, and the Netherlands have noted that unless economic growth can be dramatically decoupled from resource use and waste generation, environmental pressures will increase rapidly.


Nowadays, sustainable waste management is an ongoing trend worldwide accomplished through utilization of recycled waste products in the construction industry (Ali, El-Dieb, Aboubakr, & Taha, 2016) . Moreover, ecological balance of nature can be kept by usage of diverse raw materials. It was described that, 30-40% waste materials produced from forest products and agriculture materials can be recycled for functional product (Asim et al., 2015) .

Nowadays, sustainable waste management is an ongoing trend worldwide accomplished through utilization of recycled waste products in the construction industry.

It was described that, 30-40% waste materials produced from forest products and agriculture materials can be recycled for functional product.


Many industrial by-products like silica fume have been standardized as SCMs. However, these traditional SCMs are not always available in all regions and would be costly to transport. Hence, developing local alternative SCMs is of paramount importance (Omran & Tagnit-Hamou, 2016) . Additionally, since shortage of post-consumer disposal waste sites were one of the principal problems in most developing countries, regenerating and using waste product as a resource and prevent environmental pollution is the best mechanism (Vasudevan, 2013) .

Hence, developing local alternative SCMs is of paramount importance.

Additionally, since shortage of post-consumer disposal waste sites were one of the principal problems in most developing countries, regenerating and using waste product as a resource and prevent environmental pollution is the best mechanism.


In concrete production, sustainability can be achieved by innovations in substitutions of material used. Cement-based materials are the most abundant materials in the world. Due to the high demand of natural resources, engineers have growing interests in sustainable development by choosing sustainable material for eco-friendly construction & to save the environment by utilizing waste products generated by industries (Anwar, Ahmad, Husain, & Aqeel, 2015) .

Due to the high demand of natural resources, engineers have growing interests in sustainable development by choosing sustainable material for eco-friendly construction & to save the environment by utilizing waste products generated by industries.


In the post-mortem animal, spoilage microorganisms metabolize shellfish muscle, producing a wide variety of volatile off-flavors and odors. Persistent ammonia odors are used by sensory experts as an indicator of spoilage in crab meat and some other seafood products. Trimethylamine (TMA), a volatile amine, is responsible for an unpleasant fishy odor and is used as a quality index for seafood (Spink et al., 1996) . Indole has been used as a spoilage indicator for shrimp and other crustaceans (Snellings, Takenaka, Kim-Hayes, & Miller, 2003) . Other compounds produced during spoilage include hydrogen sulfide, dimethyl sulfide, and methyl mercaptan from sulfur-containing amino acids; various amines, ammonia, skatole, putrescine, and cadaverine from amino acids; lower fatty acids from sugars such as glucose and ribose; carbonyl compounds from lipids (Avery & Lamprecht, 1988; Smith, Nickelson, Martin, & Finne, 1984; Watts & Brown, 1982) . Loss of freshness, which often precedes microbial spoilage, primarily involves autolytic reactions controlled by endogenous enzymes present in the muscle tissue as well as those leaching from the gut (Ashie et al., 1996) .

Trimethylamine (TMA), a volatile amine, is responsible for an unpleasant fishy odor and is used as a quality index for seafood.

Indole has been used as a spoilage indicator for shrimp and other crustaceans.

Other compounds produced during spoilage include hydrogen sulfide, dimethyl sulfide, and methyl mercaptan from sulfur-containing amino acids; various amines, ammonia, skatole, putrescine, and cadaverine from amino acids; lower fatty acids from sugars such as glucose and ribose; carbonyl compounds from lipids.

Loss of freshness, which often precedes microbial spoilage, primarily involves autolytic reactions controlled by endogenous enzymes present in the muscle tissue as well as those leaching from the gut.


An interesting finding was the presence of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) in the heated SPME extracted sample procedure. At first, its presence was puzzling since the crab meat samples were not treated with an antioxidant dip. A possible explanation is that the BHT migrated from the packaging material into the crab meat during sample heating. The antioxidant BHT has been found to migrate from high-density polyethylene and low-density polyethylene films into food (Hoojjat, Harte, Hernandez, Giacin, & Miltz, 1987; Miltz et al., 1988; Schwope et al., 1987) . It is a smaller, more volatile molecule compared with other antioxidants. Therefore, it is possible that heating the sample to approximately 100°C caused BHT to partition into the gas phase in appreciable amounts for adsorption by the SPME fiber and detection by GC-MS.

The antioxidant BHT has been found to migrate from high-density polyethylene and low-density polyethylene films into food.


The MRI findings in the present case are consistent with those of previous reports; that is, the lesion appeared isointense relative to the spinal cord on T1-weighted images and iso-or hyperintense on T2-weighted imaging with strong homogeneous gadolinium enhancement. However, shown on T2-weighted images was a structure in the cranial aspect of the mass that was consistent with enlarged vessels. We were not able to rule out the vascular malformation by only MRI findings. However, we did not perform preoperative angiography. In the literatures, most intradural capillary hemangiomas were resected successfully without significant intraoperative bleeding, although some cases showed high bleeding tendency [6, 10, 15, 17] . In our case, fortunately, tumor was resected without significant bleeding. To avoid intraoperative bleeding, preoperative angiography and/or embolization should be considered [16] .

In the literatures, most intradural capillary hemangiomas were resected successfully without significant intraoperative bleeding, although some cases showed high bleeding tendency.

To avoid intraoperative bleeding, preoperative angiography and/or embolization should be considered.


Titanium is widely-used as a biomaterial because it is biocompatible, chemically inert, and possesses good mechanical properties. It is not an ideal material from a medical standpoint as it does not present good bioactivity, i.e. bone does not grow spontaneously around it when implanted in the human body [1] [2] [3] . We are conducting studies to improve the bioactivity of this material.

It is not an ideal material from a medical standpoint as it does not present good bioactivity, i.e. bone does not grow spontaneously around it when implanted in the human body.


Asian Americans-another group with a strong collectivist and familistic orientation-showed mixed evidence for our hypothesis. Depressed mood was significantly negatively associated with changes in peer warmth, but that association was only marginal for parental warmth. Several factors may account for this tentative finding. First, our results may have detected an early sign of the psychological distancing strategy used by Asian American parents to deal with their children who display depressive symptoms. Asian American families have been found to have a tendency to reject their psychologically troubled members, perhaps to protect the family reputation from the cultural stigma of having psychological problems (Uba, 1994) . Future longitudinal research is needed to directly test these conjectures.

Asian American families have been found to have a tendency to reject their psychologically troubled members, perhaps to protect the family reputation from the cultural stigma of having psychological problems.


The experimental values of densities and viscosities of the hydrocarbons are compared with the literature values and are presented in Table 1 . It was found that the experimental values are in proximity with the literature values. Insufficient data on densities and viscosities of pure 1-iodoobutane is available [14] . The densities, , and viscosities, , of binary mixtures were measured at 303.15, 308.15, 313.15 ± 0.01 K as a function of the composition of the corresponding binary mixtures. The results of the study are presented in Tables 2 and 3 .

Insufficient data on densities and viscosities of pure 1-iodoobutane is available.


In evaluating the 21 Posidonia descriptors, ANOVA, PCA, similarity analysis, and correlations with anthropogenic pressures were used to select the most appropriate ones for implementation of the WFD. The final suite includes metrics relating to the community (herbivore pressure and epiphyte biomass), the population (shoot density, proportion of plagiotropic rhizomes, dead-matte cover, and meadow cover), and to individual plants (rhizome baring/burial, shoot foliar surface, and foliar necrosis). Meadow cover, shoot foliar surface, and shoot density were negatively correlated with most of these pressures. For a selection of metrics to be applied in future monitoring programmes, cost-effectiveness is an important issue, and therefore the metrics should be easily measured and applied. Although some descriptors require that samples be analysed in the laboratory (e.g. shoot foliar surface, foliar necrosis, and epiphyte biomass), these metrics can be collected rapidly at relatively low cost. More complex and time-consuming analyses that, in some cases, could be subject to analytical errors might be rejected based on not providing much additional information (Krause-Jensen et al., 2004) .

More complex and time-consuming analyses that, in some cases, could be subject to analytical errors might be rejected based on not providing much additional information.


High nitrogen stainless steels (HNSS) are becoming an important class of engineering materials and have received much attention in recent years. The effects of nitrogen on the properties of steels have long been a subject of study. Nitrogen-alloyed steels are considered HNSS, when the nitrogen content exceeds 0.4 wt% in austenite matrix and 0.08 wt% in the case of ferritic structure [7] . Nitrogen alloying in stainless steels is known to have many beneficial effects, including improvements in phase stability, strengthening, and corrosion resistance. Austenitic HNSS find wide applications today in chemical equipment, power generation industry, petroleum and nuclear industries, marine sectors, and ship building [8] [9] [10] .

Nitrogen-alloyed steels are considered HNSS, when the nitrogen content exceeds 0.4 wt% in austenite matrix and 0.08 wt% in the case of ferritic structure.

Austenitic HNSS find wide applications today in chemical equipment, power generation industry, petroleum and nuclear industries, marine sectors, and ship building.


Austenitic stainless steels have been used successfully in many applications in marine environment. Types 304 and 316L are the most likely candidates for marine applications due to their excellent corrosion resistance especially for pitting and crevice. Therefore, they are found in excess in workboat propellers, pump components, valves, shaft components, hull fittings, fasteners, and oceanographic instruments [1] . Type 316L stainless steels are considered to be the main components in hydraulic control systems for the operation of subsea oil recovery system. These alloys also are used in instrument and chemical injection tubing in offshore oil platform [2] [3] [4] .

Therefore, they are found in excess in workboat propellers, pump components, valves, shaft components, hull fittings, fasteners, and oceanographic instruments.

These alloys also are used in instrument and chemical injection tubing in offshore oil platform.


It is well known that alloying of nitrogen in stainless steels improves a number of corrosion properties. However, the mechanistic role of nitrogen in improving the corrosion resistance is still under intensive investigation and needs more study. Nitrogen alloying improves the cavitation erosion resistance of austenitic stainless steels in ocean. The main reason for the increase in cavitation erosion resistance of austenitic stainless steels is the effect of nitrogen on their hardness [13] .

The main reason for the increase in cavitation erosion resistance of austenitic stainless steels is the effect of nitrogen on their hardness.


Recently, microwave frequency measurement (MFM) technique has aroused lots of research interests for its application on electronic warfare, radar warning and electronic intelligence systems. Due to the explosive growth of data traffic, critical challenges are bringing urgent demands to measurements in terms of large instantaneous bandwidth greater than 10 GHz, which may not be achievable using purely electronic solutions or the systems are extremely complicated and costly [1] . Compared with electronics solutions, photonic MFM systems offer advantages including large instantaneous bandwidth, electromagnetic immunity, potential for multi-frequency measurement, light weight and so on [2] .

Due to the explosive growth of data traffic, critical challenges are bringing urgent demands to measurements in terms of large instantaneous bandwidth greater than 10 GHz, which may not be achievable using purely electronic solutions or the systems are extremely complicated and costly.

Compared with electronics solutions, photonic MFM systems offer advantages including large instantaneous bandwidth, electromagnetic immunity, potential for multi-frequency measurement, light weight and so on.


In the cognitive approach, Piaget states that the child lives in a world where there is no concept of time and that the time concept is realized gradually. In the first years of childhood, although the ability to remember, which is a pre-condition in development of the concept of past, future and present cannot be attained, it is assumed that time is experienced as the sum of all events in early childhood. Therefore, the small child lives in a world composed only of moments. However, the child understands deeply the difference between past, future and present after the age of five. Child comprehension of time in all its dimensions occurs between the ages of 14 and 18, which we refer to as adolescence. The development of using time effectively in childhood and adolescence is a matter that needs to be improved. Adolescents especially have to achieve complicated tasks such as social development, identity development, preparing for their future profession, and planning the future and academic success (Seginer and Lilach, 2004) . During all these complicated developmental tasks, it is important for adolescents to be successful in comprehending the importance of time, realizing habits related to usage of time, and changing incorrect behaviors if they have developed them, because in an environment where consciousness of time cannot be achieved, an individual's control over life also disappears, and development depends on coincidence and luck.

Adolescents especially have to achieve complicated tasks such as social development, identity development, preparing for their future profession, and planning the future and academic success.


Therefore, people are required to group their tasks and to group them in accordance with priorities. Time management is actually self-management; that is, as well as providing control over events we experience, an individual directs events by manipulating them. The success of an individual in time management can be determined through their answers to two questions; "How many events happen as we wish them to be?", and, "What is our role in the development of these events?" (Güçlü, 2001) .

The success of an individual in time management can be determined through their answers to two questions; "How many events happen as we wish them to be?", and, "What is our role in the development of these events?".


In today's fast-paced world, the individual's possibility of using time efficiently is decreasing day by day. The tasks expected from people at work are increasing every year and institutions and organizations demand different things from their employees every day. Additionally, working life is becoming more complicated and the parameters affecting working life are increasingly changing. All these changes can be tolerated up to a point; however, that the rate of change is rising in itself reveals the insufficiency of time at a certain level (Uluşahin, 1999) . Given that every individual has the same amount of time at their disposal, in fact, many complain they do not have enough time. Yet some manage to do more work compared to others in the same amount of time. To understand how this is possible is an important issue (Keenan, 1996) .

All these changes can be tolerated up to a point; however, that the rate of change is rising in itself reveals the insufficiency of time at a certain level.

To understand how this is possible is an important issue.


There are currently five members of the NF-KB/Rel family known in higher vertebrates: p65 (RelA), RelB, c-Rel, p50 and p52 (Blank et al., 1992; Grilli et al., 1993; Liou and Baltimore, 1993; Baeuerle and Henkel, 1994; Siebenlist et al., 1995) . All are sequence-specific DNA binding proteins, which recognize with distinguishable specificity so-called kB motifs (consensus: 5'-GGGPuNNPyPyCC-3'). With the exception of p50 and p52, the subunits contain transactivating domains which confer tran scriptional activation. The proteins must homo-or heterodimerize in order to bind with high affinity to DNA. Appar ently, RelB cannot dimerize with p65 or c-Rel, but almost every other dimer combination is possible and has been reported to occur in nuclear extracts prepared from cells. Frequently, the rapidly induced NF-kB complexes contain p65 in a heterodimer with p50 or as homodimers, while c-Rel and RelB are frequent constituents of constitutively nuclear NF-kB in mature B cells.

There are currently five members of the NF-KB/Rel family known in higher vertebrates: p65 (RelA), RelB, c-Rel, p50 and p52.


SRL is considered as a supervised machine learning problem. In traditional methods, linear classifier such as SVM is often employed to perform this task based on features extracted from the training corpus. Actually, people often treat this problem as a multi-step classification task. First, whether an argument is related to the predicate is determined; next the detail relation type was decided (Palmer et al., 2010) .

First, whether an argument is related to the predicate is determined; next the detail relation type was decided.


Heavy stable (or quasi-stable) charged particles (HSCPs) appear in various extensions of the standard model (SM) [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] . If the lifetime of an HSCP produced at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is longer than a few nanoseconds, the particle will travel over distances that are comparable or larger than the size of a typical particle detector. In addition, if the HSCP mass is 100 GeV/c 2 , a significant fraction of these particles will have a velocity, β ≡ v/c, smaller than 0.9. These HSCPs will be directly observable through the distinctive signature of a high momentum (p) particle with an anomalously large rate of energy loss through ionization (dE/dx).

Heavy stable (or quasi-stable) charged particles (HSCPs) appear in various extensions of the standard model (SM).


In recent years, the production of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) has received special attention due to their prebiotics and nutraceutical properties (L`Homme et al., 2003) . FOS are not metabolized by most microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract; however, they are fermented by bifidobacteria, which makes the elimination of harmful microorganisms easier, thus preventing colon cancer. They are not cariogenic and have a low calorific value, allowing diabetics to make use of them (Chen 1998) . Moreover, they lower cholesterol levels, phospholipids and triglycerides in the blood, as well as the diastolic blood pressure (Katapodis et al., 2004; Nguyen et al., 2005; Maiorano et al., 2008) .

In recent years, the production of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) has received special attention due to their prebiotics and nutraceutical properties.

They are not cariogenic and have a low calorific value, allowing diabetics to make use of them.

Moreover, they lower cholesterol levels, phospholipids and triglycerides in the blood, as well as the diastolic blood pressure.


The effects of sucrose, urea and yeast extract concentrations were illustrated via surface and contour plots for biomass production as a function of two factors with the other factor kept at the median level, as shown in Figures 3 and 4 . Response surface plots provided a method for predicting the response to different test variable values, and plot contours helped identify the types of interactions between the test variables. These plots are graphic representations of the regression equations. A rather flat response surface indicates that the responses can tolerate variation in the culture medium composition without the responses being seriously affected, whereas a very pointed surface indicates that responses would be sensitive to the culture medium composition used (Montgomery 1997) . If the contour lines are parallel with either of the axes, no interaction exists between these two variables. Elliptic contours indicate that there are striking interactions between the variables.

A rather flat response surface indicates that the responses can tolerate variation in the culture medium composition without the responses being seriously affected, whereas a very pointed surface indicates that responses would be sensitive to the culture medium composition used.


In this paper, we first describe the set of data assembled to build a new homogeneous SN series. We then derive a first accurate SN over the interval 1981-2015 using the large set of stations in the SILSO network. As this series must be brought to the same scale as the Zürich SN before 1981, we then build a longer SN series from 1944 to 2015 using a smaller set of long-duration stations. The main parallel long-term series at our disposal is the Group Number (Hoyt and Schatten, 1998a,b) . However, various inhomogeneities have been found in this series, including a ∼ 10% scale change around 1975 (Lockwood, Owens, and Barnard, 2014; Clette et al., 2014) . In order to correct this defect and be able to make reliable comparisons with the corrected SN, we thus build a new group number using the same set of stations. We then investigate the relation between those two sunspot-based indices, now free from artifacts, and we make a few comparisons with other standard solar indices. We finally summarize the final corrections and some new insights on other solar measurements that emerge thanks to the greatly improved stability of the new SN series.

However, various inhomogeneities have been found in this series, including a ∼ 10% scale change around 1975.


Without the diving ducks, the huge Musculista senhousia biomass would likely die in summer due to anoxia as often happens in Lake Nakaumi because water stratification develops easily at this time (Metocean Co. 1994) . M. senhousia predators are generally absent in Lake Nakaumi in spring and summer because carnivorous invertebrates (i.e. crabs, shrimps, and gastropods) escape to the ocean during the cold season and only few return to water with a low oxygen concentration in warmer seasons. M. senhousia death by suffocation in summer would add a certain nitrogen and phosphorus load to the lagoon in the form of mussel flesh. Mussel flesh decomposition at the bottom in summer would also accelerate oxygen depletion, which would increase nutrient efflux from sediment.

Without the diving ducks, the huge Musculista senhousia biomass would likely die in summer due to anoxia as often happens in Lake Nakaumi because water stratification develops easily at this time.


In the literature, the change in the transformation characteristics with ageing is mainly attributed to the γ 2 precipitate formation and successive martensitic transitions (β 1 ⇔ γ 1 ) [7, 8] . The former manifests itself as multiple peaks in the DSC scans (see for example, the 573 K ageing thermograms), where a high density of precipitates restricts the mobility of the interfaces (austenite/martensite) during the transformation interval. Observation of an increase in the transformation hysteresis provides further support for this.

In the literature, the change in the transformation characteristics with ageing is mainly attributed to the γ 2 precipitate formation and successive martensitic transitions (β 1 ⇔ γ 1 ).


The high damping capacity of the thermoelastic martensitic phase in SMAs is due to the hysteretic movement of the austenite/martensite interfaces during phase transformation [1, 2] . The temperature dependence of tan δ for both the alloys A and M, for the as-quenched and aged conditions, reveals the contribution of γ 2 precipitates to the damping properties. As the density of the precipitates increases with ageing temperature the mobility of the interfaces (austenite/martensite and martensite/martensite) is restricted. Hence, a drop in the IF peak during the transformation (figure 7) along with the comparable damping values in martensitic and austenitic conditions, i.e. before and after phase transition regime, result in a symmetric behaviour of tan δ after ageing at 573 K (figure 5). The formation of γ 2 precipitates is due to the coalescence of excess quenched-in vacancies that cause a local concentration gradient, eventually resulting in higher M s [8] . With the increase in M s due to ageing, the martensite becomes slightly stabilized at ambient temperature as observed from the different first and second heating scans. Hence the martensite/matrix interface, martensite/martensite and twin boundary interfaces get pinned with obstacles (vacancies, γ 2 precipitates etc) [6, 12] . The pinning of the interfaces cause mechanical stabilization, as the easy movement of the interfaces is hindered, thereby reducing the damping property [13] [14] [15] .

The high damping capacity of the thermoelastic martensitic phase in SMAs is due to the hysteretic movement of the austenite/martensite interfaces during phase transformation.

The formation of γ 2 precipitates is due to the coalescence of excess quenched-in vacancies that cause a local concentration gradient, eventually resulting in higher M s.

Hence the martensite/matrix interface, martensite/martensite and twin boundary interfaces get pinned with obstacles (vacancies, γ 2 precipitates etc).

The pinning of the interfaces cause mechanical stabilization, as the easy movement of the interfaces is hindered, thereby reducing the damping property.


The positive clinical outcomes and substantial efficacy of traditional Chinese medicines have brought hope for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Accumulating evidence indicates that traditional Chinese medicines not only alleviate Parkinsonian symptoms, but also reduce levodopa-induced dyskinesia and other complications (He et al., 2004) . Current studies suggest that most Parkinsonian symptoms and levodopa-induced dyskinesia are the results of deficient stirring wind pattern (Sheng et al., 2011; Park, 2017) . The Rehmannia formulation was developed based on clinical experiences. This formulation has satisfactory clinical efficacy in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and levodopa-induced dyskinesia (Ge et al., 2012; Qiu et al., 2014) .

Accumulating evidence indicates that traditional Chinese medicines not only alleviate Parkinsonian symptoms, but also reduce levodopa-induced dyskinesia and other complications.

Current studies suggest that most Parkinsonian symptoms and levodopa-induced dyskinesia are the results of deficient stirring wind pattern.

This formulation has satisfactory clinical efficacy in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and levodopa-induced dyskinesia.


A 2-factor, complete block design was used to analyze the data. Main effects were blocks, goat use (without respect to density) and years. Blocks were a random effect; both goat use and years were fixed. The year effect was a repeated measure. This design was used for ANOVA for stem density, stem-size distributions and sprout responses. Covariate ANOVA of size-specific stem productivity simply involved adding stem diameter to the design, as the concommitant. RUMMAGE software was used to analyze the data (Bryce 1980) . Block-randomization was used to distribute goats because we suspected that utilization might differ among pastures. We based this suspicion on the height gradient observed among oak stems; if goats were unable to reach the tallest stems, utilization of oak would vary along the height gradient. The pastures had to be randomized prior to any browsing and we elected to use the block design, rather than a completely randomized design, in order to account for a potentially height-related utilization differential. However, we observed during the browsing periods that goats defoliated all stems without regard to height; this resulted from their ability to assume a bipedal stance while feeding, which allowed them to "ride down" even the tallest stems. Therefore, the height gradient became biologically unimportant, and we view our initial block-randomization as unnecessarily restrictive (i.e., a completely randomized design would have been appropriate). We have adhered to the block-randomized design for this analysis, but caution the reader that it is likely conservative. Consequently, we have also reported some results that were visually obvious to us, but only marginally significant in the context of the blockrandomized analysis.

The year effect was a repeated measure.

RUMMAGE software was used to analyze the data.


Hepatitis C is a contagious liver disease that results from infection with the hepatitis C virus. It can range in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious, lifelong illness. The hepatitis C virus is usually spread when blood from an infected person enters the body of a susceptible person. It is among the most common viruses that infect the liver. Every year, 3-4 million people are infected with the hepatitis C virus. About 150 million people are chronically infected and are at risk of developing liver cirrhosis and/or liver cancer. More than 350 000 people die from hepatitis Crelated liver diseases every year. Countries with high rates of chronic infection are Egypt (15%), Pakistan (4.8%), and China (3.2%). There are 6 genotypes of hepatitis C and they may respond differently to treatment. Combination of interferon and ribavirin has been the mainstay of hepatitis C treatment. Unfortunately, interferon is not widely available globally, it is not always well tolerated, some virus genotypes respond better to interferon than others, and many people who take interferon do not finish their treatment. This means that while hepatitis C is generally considered to be a curable disease for many people this is not a reality [1] .

This means that while hepatitis C is generally considered to be a curable disease for many people this is not a reality.


By estimating the magnitude of TTD for a disease, evaluating its potential consequences on prognosis and understanding its determinants, reports of studies on TTD may be used by clinicians and decision makers to plan corrective actions and identify inequities in access to healthcare. Critical appraisal is a key step before using results of clinical research for decisions in healthcare and policy. Incomplete and inaccurate reporting may prevent adequate critical appraisal of a study and lead to non-contributory scientific research [16] . Our reporting guideline provides authors, reviewers, and editors, as well as users of studies on TTD, with a tool that promotes complete and accurate reporting of studies.

Incomplete and inaccurate reporting may prevent adequate critical appraisal of a study and lead to non-contributory scientific research.


Body image is an important aspect of self-representation and self-evaluation throughout life, and a concern for both genders (Cash & Deagle, 1997; Grossbard, Neighbors, & Larimer, 2011) . Sparse information exists on BIC among young adults in the EMR, despite evidence in the Arabic culture of growing preference for thinness which is becoming more desired than the plump body image of the past (Kabir, Zafar, & Waslien, 2013) . With social stresses linked to the acceptability and approval of idealized physical appearance among university students, the current study bridges the gap in knowledge to describe the prevalence of BIC among male and female students, assess the bivariate associations of BIC with a range of variables, scrutinize the correlates of BIC for males and females, and examine whether these BIC correlates were different by gender. These features attach great importance to the findings of the current study, as it contributes to the evidence base research necessary for screening initiatives, prevention programmes and intervention strategies for these young adults who are foreseen to be tomorrow's leaders.

Body image is an important aspect of self-representation and self-evaluation throughout life, and a concern for both genders.

Sparse information exists on BIC among young adults in the EMR, despite evidence in the Arabic culture of growing preference for thinness which is becoming more desired than the plump body image of the past.


The experiment results have shown a significant effect of copper concentrations in composites on the PEO process. So, the anodic voltage for the composites, with more than 2% Cu, reached the values observed for the composites without additives and 1% Cu, doped only at the end of the PEO process (~50 min). The presence of copper also affects the structure of the PEO coatings. In this case, a lower voltage of the PEO coating formation could lead to mullite crystallization due to a decrease in the spatial density of the microdischarges and the formation of silicon-enriched regions, which remain on the surface for a long time [34] . The nonuniformity of the coating thickness can be related to the uneven distribution of the copper dopants in the composite, whcih affected the rate of the PEO coating formation at different sections of the oxidation front. It can be assumed that, as the transition layer approaches the copper-containing inclusions, the rate of formation of the PEO coating increases due to their lower electrical resistance and higher thermal conductivity. However, inclusions of copper oxide in the PEO coating can lead to cracking because of a large difference in the thermal expansion with alumina. In the case of the Al + 1% Cu composite, copper-containing inclusions resulted in no significant thickness heterogeneity of the coatings, however, an increase in the rate of its formation was noted.

In this case, a lower voltage of the PEO coating formation could lead to mullite crystallization due to a decrease in the spatial density of the microdischarges and the formation of silicon-enriched regions, which remain on the surface for a long time.


In this study, experiments were conducted to predict the potential use of raw olive pomace as a solid biomass fuel. Three samples were characterized, namely, raw olive pomace (R.O.P), exhausted olive pomace (E.O.P) which is pelletized in the cylindrical shape, and deoiled olive pomace (D.O.P) obtained by using Soxhlet extractor [23] . Then, two kinds of olive pomace (R.O.P and E.O.P) were burned and their results are compared to those obtained from wood sawdust combustion. Effects of olive pomace particle size on temperature distributions at different combustor device positions were highlighted and the flue gas composition (O2, CO, CO2, NOx, SOx) has been measured.

Three samples were characterized, namely, raw olive pomace (R.O.P), exhausted olive pomace (E.O.P) which is pelletized in the cylindrical shape, and deoiled olive pomace (D.O.P) obtained by using Soxhlet extractor.


A growing body of evidence has proved the important role of NF-κB in immune response and inflamma-tion (Terlizzi et al., 2014; Jing et al., 2014; Marusawa et al., 2014) . NF-κB not only regulates the expression of most anti-apoptotic gene products associated with the survival of the tumor, but also regulates the gene products linked with the proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis of tumors . Extensive research showed that curcumin exerts a wide range of antitumor effects through modulation of significant signaling pathways, including the NF-κB pathway (Oyagbemi et al., 2009; Chen et al., 2008; Kunnumakkara et al., 2008) . To further determine the mechanism of growth inhibition on PC-3 cells, we also investigated the effect of S1-S3 on the activation of NF-κB through an NF-κB-luciferase reporter gene expression assay. We found that treatment with S1-S3 strongly inhibited NF-κB activity at concentrations of both 1.0 μM and 2.5 μM in comparison to curcumin. This result suggests that inhibition of NF-κB activity may contribute to the inhibitory effect on cell growth induced by S1-S3.

A growing body of evidence has proved the important role of NF-κB in immune response and inflamma-tion.

Extensive research showed that curcumin exerts a wide range of antitumor effects through modulation of significant signaling pathways, including the NF-κB pathway.


Various types of concrete filling may be used in practice, including plain (unreinforced) concrete (PC), steel bar reinforced concrete (RC), and, relatively rarely, steel fibre reinforced concrete (FIB). A current trend in ambient temperature design of CFS columns is for the infill concrete to have a high-compressive strength of more than 60 MPa (up to 100 MPa in some cases). CFS sections are now widely specified by architects and engineers and are increasingly being applied in the design and construction of multi-storey and high rise buildings, as members within highly optimized structural frames for which structural fire resistance ratings of two hours or more may be required [2] .

CFS sections are now widely specified by architects and engineers and are increasingly being applied in the design and construction of multi-storey and high rise buildings, as members within highly optimized structural frames for which structural fire resistance ratings of two hours or more may be required.


Among cataclysmic variables with magnetic field, it is customary to distinguish polars and intermediate polars [3] . Such systems usually harbor a white dwarf (accretor) and a late-type star (donor), typically a red dwarf. Orbital period of the binary is several hr. The polars and intermediate polars are distinguished by degree of polarization of the observed radiation. This characteristic is associated with the magnitude of the magnetic field of white dwarf: for the polars it exceeds 10 6 G, while for intermediate polars its range is 10 5 10 6 G. The magnitude of the field 10 6 G also separates two types of accretion flows: in intermediate polars accretion disks can form, while in polars the radius of the magnetosphere of the white dwarf is so large that the disk does not form [4] .

Among cataclysmic variables with magnetic field, it is customary to distinguish polars and intermediate polars.

This characteristic is associated with the magnitude of the magnetic field of white dwarf: for the polars it exceeds 10 6 G, while for intermediate polars its range is 10 5 10 6 G. The magnitude of the field 10 6 G also separates two types of accretion flows: in intermediate polars accretion disks can form, while in polars the radius of the magnetosphere of the white dwarf is so large that the disk does not form.


In this paper, we suggest one more mechanism for generation of radio emission based on cyclotron radiation of electrons in the fluctuations of magnetic field. The presence of fluctuations is associated with the setting of wave Alfvén turbulence in the plasma. This paper continues investigation of the effects of Alfvén turbulence in cataclysmic binary systems [8] .

This paper continues investigation of the effects of Alfvén turbulence in cataclysmic binary systems.


Radio emission is observed from many cataclysmic variable stars. It is distinguished by a large variability of both intensity and polarization, up to complete cessation. Duration of quiet periods can be many times longer than the orbital period of the binary star. Among the sources with continuously observed radio emission, one can note AM Her, AR UMa, and AE Aqr [1] . Radiation is detected at the frequencies of the order of units and tens of GHz (the range of operation of VLA), but only a small number of systems manifest themselves in this range [2] .

Among the sources with continuously observed radio emission, one can note AM Her, AR UMa, and AE Aqr.

Radiation is detected at the frequencies of the order of units and tens of GHz (the range of operation of VLA), but only a small number of systems manifest themselves in this range.


The main clinical feature of hookworm infection is anaemia due to blood loss and the degree of blood loss has been related to the type of hookworm involved (Albonico et al, 2004) . The blood loss was estimated as 0.03ml per worm per day in N. americanus and 0.15ml per day in A. duodenale (Albonico et al, 2004) . There might be no difference seen between genders that is more susceptible to hookworm infection in adult but clear difference is seen in school children (Ayorinde, 2004) . Despite considerable advances in chemotherapy and control, hookworm rank amongst the most widely spread of soil-transmitted helminthes parasite and affect a significant proportion of the world population (Olsen, et al, 2006) . The preliminary data based on a survey in the two hospitals estimated that 47% of hookworm infections were discovered in State Specialist Hospital while 46% of helminthes infections were hookworm cases at Federal Medical Centre, Ido-Ekiti. Therefore, this study aimed at providing quantitative information on the prevalence, epidemiology and probable suggestion on the control measures of hookworm infections in this part of the world.

The main clinical feature of hookworm infection is anaemia due to blood loss and the degree of blood loss has been related to the type of hookworm involved.

The blood loss was estimated as 0.03ml per worm per day in N. americanus and 0.15ml per day in A. duodenale.

There might be no difference seen between genders that is more susceptible to hookworm infection in adult but clear difference is seen in school children.

Despite considerable advances in chemotherapy and control, hookworm rank amongst the most widely spread of soil-transmitted helminthes parasite and affect a significant proportion of the world population.


The present study shows an increase in urinary excretion of MG in rats co-ingested with a single dose of CF. MG is excreted into urine as both unchanged form and various metabolites after undergoing an extensive hepatic metabolism [3] . The increased excretion is probably because CF has a diuretic effect and can increase glomerular filtration and renal blood flow especially in the renal medulla [ 22] . This study firstly demonstrated a pharmacokinetic alteration of MG caused by other substances.

MG is excreted into urine as both unchanged form and various metabolites after undergoing an extensive hepatic metabolism.

The increased excretion is probably because CF has a diuretic effect and can increase glomerular filtration and renal blood flow especially in the renal medulla.


MG is a weak base, with intermediate lipophilicity, poorly soluble in water and basic media, but highly soluble in acidic media [18] . After sample loading, MG interacted with the sorbent and retained in the cartridge. When a solvent mixture of 0 -80 % methanol-water and 2 % ammonium hydroxide passed through the cartridge, MG was unionized and remained in the cartridge. Only highly-and intermediate polar compounds both acid and neutral interferences were removed. When methanol concentration increased (90 -100 %), MG was eluted. Therefore, the mixture of 0 -80 % methanol-water with 2 % of ammonium hydroxide was probably used as a washing solvent. The results showed that washing with low-followed by high percentage of methanol-basic mixture were preferable. The 5 % methanol-water mixture with 2 % ammonium hydroxide removed most polar acidic and neutral interferences while the 70 % methanol-water mixture eliminated less polar compounds. That resulted to cleaner extract and lesser chromatographic noises.

MG is a weak base, with intermediate lipophilicity, poorly soluble in water and basic media, but highly soluble in acidic media.


Our study has some limitations. It was a single-center study with a relative small cohort of patients. We acknowledge also the limitation of this test: it is a non-instrumental analysis of the intra-operative femoral head blood flow but other authors have already described the scientific background of the proposed test [6, 13] . Furthermore, the choice of 5 s deadline is arbitrary and not based on scientific bases, and dubious cases are possible.

Our study has some limitations.

We acknowledge also the limitation of this test: it is a non-instrumental analysis of the intra-operative femoral head blood flow but other authors have already described the scientific background of the proposed test.


The challenge that we address in this paper is how should companions be evaluated. We present the detailed evaluation of a specific instantiation of the companion concept. This is the "How Was Your Day?" (HWYD) companion, an ECA developed to have engaging conversational interactions with the typical office worker returning home after work. The HWYD system was developed as part of the EU funded integrated project COMPANIONS investigating the companion concept. Several other companion concepts were developed including a senior companion aimed at having conversations with older people and a health and fitness companion aimed at encouraging people to exercise more. The aim of the HWYD companion was to showcase a sophisticated model of natural dialogue interaction using a speech-based interface. The scenario was chosen because it was seen to be representative of the sort of deployment that companions in the home could offer in a few years' time. A large screen in the home would display the avatar who would greet the users when they got home, and be capable of holding conversations around 40 officerelated topics in the context of asking about a person's working day [10] .

A large screen in the home would display the avatar who would greet the users when they got home, and be capable of holding conversations around 40 officerelated topics in the context of asking about a person's working day.