It is found that the growth rate of foreign tourists to Taiwan from Japan and Korea is greatly increased to 22% in 2016. To effectively stimulate the increase of the number of inbound visitors from Northeast Asia, Taiwan authorities should think about how to further work in close cooperation with related economies. Several relevant tourism development and marketing strategies should be put forth to promote the tourism industry. For instance, more bilateral routes that should be taken into account, the promotion for more attractive itineraries with shopping and accommodation, and environmental impact assessment. Since the SC-MCGM(1,1) model among the compared models performs very well for predicting visitors from Northeast Asia, this suggests that Taiwan authorities can leverage the proposed model to set up tourism development plans for Northeast Asia for a few years. As for China, the SC-MCGM(1,1) model performs very well for predicting visitors from Korea, Russia, US, Mongolia, Philippines, and Singapore. Similarly, China authorities can set up appropriate tourism policies by using the proposed SC-MCGM(1,1) model to predict the number of inbound visitors from those economies for a few years. After all, a prediction model can play a significant role on implementation of tourism development plans [41] .

After all, a prediction model can play a significant role on implementation of tourism development plans.


Accurate foreign tourist forecasting is critical for governmental tourism development policies. However, time series data for tourism often have temporal fluctuation and trend changes, making precise predictions challenging. Over or under estimation of foreign tourist numbers could lead to inappropriate governmental investment in tourist infrastructures [41] . This study proposed a novel grey residual modification model incorporating soft computing, including SLP, FLN, and GA, into the Grey-Markov model.

Over or under estimation of foreign tourist numbers could lead to inappropriate governmental investment in tourist infrastructures.


Historical annual data for foreign tourists collected from Taiwan and China official institutions were used to evaluate prediction accuracy of the proposed model. Soft computing constructs a computationally intelligent system that can learn to achieve better accuracy for changing environments and confront real world problems [42] . Therefore, this study proposed a residual modification model called SC-MCGM(1,1) by incorporating soft computing techniques into the Grey-Markov model. The proposed SC-MCGM(1,1) model was capable of estimating not only the adjusted volume associated with a new residual value for a predicted value from the GM(1,1), but also avoided the troublesome bounds of individual states for the Markov chain. The degree to which a representative point in each state can contribute to a new residual value was based on the sum of transition probability matrices with different steps.

Soft computing constructs a computationally intelligent system that can learn to achieve better accuracy for changing environments and confront real world problems.


The proposed SC-MCGM(1,1) with pre-specified GA parameters, including population size, number of generations, and crossover and mutation parameters, performed well. Thus, fine parameter tuning was not required. FLN used the hyperbolic tangent as the output neuron's activation function, computing a weighted sum of a vector of connection weights with an enhanced pattern. This assumes additivity among individual variables in the enhanced pattern [43] . However, these criteria are not always independent [9, [43] [44] [45] [46] [47] [48] . Therefore, future research will investigate the impact of non-additivity on prediction performance of the proposed SC-MCGM(1,1) model.

This assumes additivity among individual variables in the enhanced pattern.

However, these criteria are not always independent.


In the next section, we give formal definitions and discuss the results of [9] briefly. We also provide a tool which will be needed later, the Erdős-Turán inequality. In Section 3, we show that the above permutations are quasirandom for broad ranges of parameters. Each case is accompanied by open questions concerning the true order of magnitude of their discrepancies. We conclude in Section 4 with an application to a question of K. O'Bryant concerning the sequence of fractional parts of integer multiples of an irrational.

In the next section, we give formal definitions and discuss the results of briefly.


The main difference between these three alternative models pertains to the underlying selection process. For example, theories relating to differences in ecology and fecundity generally assume that natural selection is the force responsible for their evolution. Sexual dimorphism is in this view clearly an adaptation. Epigamic features (ornaments, coloration, etc.), however, can be under the in¯uence of sexual selection through competition over mates or directed mate choice. Epigamic traits, though they can admittedly be of adaptive value, are thus often assumed to evolve without the interference of natural selection ± in some cases even in its opposed direction. However, it is not always necessary to distinguish between products of natural and sexual selection in studies of sexual dimorphism. It can be equally fruitful to consider dimorphic characters in terms of the net outcome of different selection pressures operating simultaneously on males and females (Hedrick & Temeles, 1989; Mace, 1992) .

It can be equally fruitful to consider dimorphic characters in terms of the net outcome of different selection pressures operating simultaneously on males and females.


The method, by which we have inferred the DT in the wild, makes three important assumptions. We assume that the mutation rate per generation is the same in the lab and in the wild. However, it seems likely that bacteria in the wild will have a higher mutation rate per generation than those in the lab for two reasons. First, bacteria in the wild are likely to be stressed and this can be expected to elevate the mutation rate (20) (21) (22) (23) (24) . Second, if we assume that DTs are longer in the wild than the lab then we expect the mutation rate per generation to be higher in the wild than in the lab because some mutational processes do not depend upon DNA replication. The relative contribution of replication dependent and independent mutational mechanisms to the overall mutation rate is unknown. Rates of substitution are higher in firmicutes that do not undergo sporulation suggesting that replication is a source of mutations in this group of bacteria (25) . However, rates of mutation accumulation seem to be similar in latent versus active infections of M. tuberculosis, suggesting that replication independent mutations might dominate in this bacterium (26, 27) .

First, bacteria in the wild are likely to be stressed and this can be expected to elevate the mutation rate.

Rates of substitution are higher in firmicutes that do not undergo sporulation suggesting that replication is a source of mutations in this group of bacteria.

However, rates of mutation accumulation seem to be similar in latent versus active infections of M. tuberculosis, suggesting that replication independent mutations might dominate in this bacterium.


In the third section we use the ODE maximum principle at infinity to prove Theorem (1) . We start by showing short time existence to the flow, move on to long time existence and finish with asymptotic properties. In this section we highlight the usefulness of the ODE maximum principle at infinity in Theorem 6 and we point out that some different methods are used in Lemma 8 to find C 2 decay for the flow.

In the third section we use the ODE maximum principle at infinity to prove Theorem.


In the reaction sequence (R4), "mp" represents multiphase reactions which occur in or on the suspended aerosols and the surfaces covered by ice and snow. It is seen from (R4) that through this reaction sequence, a bromide ion stored in the substrates is activated by HOBr, and consequently converted to Br which resides in the troposphere and consumes ozone. As a result, the total gas-phase bromine loading in the troposphere is exponentially raised, and this reaction sequence is named as "bromine explosion" mechanism [9] [10] [11] [12] . The tropospheric ODEs and the associated bromine explosion phenomenon have a great influence on the lives on the earth and also the climate of polar regions. During ODEs, the oxidation ability of the atmosphere in the troposphere is dominated by the bromine containing compounds instead of ozone. As a result, more reactive gas mercury (RGM) are formed and then deposit on the ground surface. In late spring or summertime, due to the increase of the temperature, the deposited RGM are carried by the melted snow, flowing into the ocean. Through the oceanic circulation, RGM would consequently enter the body of people at mid-latitudes, damaging their health. Furthermore, as ozone is also a type of greenhouse gas which warms the surface of polar regions, the decline of the ozone mixing ratio during springtime would modify the melting speed of glacier so that the climate of polar regions is influenced.

As a result, the total gas-phase bromine loading in the troposphere is exponentially raised, and this reaction sequence is named as "bromine explosion" mechanism.


The Minimal Supersymmetric extension of the Standard Model (the MSSM) thus contains 5 physical Higgs bosons on EWSB, viz., two CP-even neutral scalars (h and H), one CP-odd neutral Higgs (A) and a pair of mutually conjugate charged Higgs bosons (H ± ). It is thus clear that in such a scenario, the phenomenology of Higgs bosons assumes a special significance in terms of its richness and resulting complications [1] , [2] , [3] , [4] , [5] . Naturally, with the LHC soon starting its operation, the hunt for such scalars would be a priority.

It is thus clear that in such a scenario, the phenomenology of Higgs bosons assumes a special significance in terms of its richness and resulting complications.


The health of our communities depends, in part, on the ability of the community to access appropriate medical care and the ability of the healthcare workforce to deliver the best possible care. Women still face barriers to achieving their full potential. Women doctors face barriers in training, in practice, in medical organisations and in academic medicine [3, 5, 6] . The lack of gender equity in medical leadership, including the historical lack of women in senior World Association of National Colleges and Academies for General Practitioners/ Family Physicians (Wonca) positions, is a challenge and a concern for family medicine [1] .

Women doctors face barriers in training, in practice, in medical organisations and in academic medicine.

The lack of gender equity in medical leadership, including the historical lack of women in senior World Association of National Colleges and Academies for General Practitioners/ Family Physicians (Wonca) positions, is a challenge and a concern for family medicine.


Anatomically, Centothecoideae are considered unique within the grass family with regard to certain features of the leaf blade and epidermis (Renvoize 1986) . Centothecoideae are typical C 3 plants, but in most members the mesophyll is unusual because it is differentiated into tissues resembling palisade parenchyma and spongy mesophyll. This is rare in the grasses, although there are many bamboos that possess a similar, but probably not homologous, condition. The chlorenchyma cells of centothecoids are lobed and resemble the arm (or rachymorph) cells of the bamboos and some other taxa. The base chromosome number, x ϭ 12, is known for some genera, with polyploidy present in some species (Soderstrom and Decker 1973; Soderstrom 1981) .

Anatomically, Centothecoideae are considered unique within the grass family with regard to certain features of the leaf blade and epidermis.

The base chromosome number, x ϭ 12, is known for some genera, with polyploidy present in some species.


Recent developments in Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) have witnessed dramatic improvements in accuracy, speed, and sophistication in discipline specific software applications. Computer-based simulation technologies are maturing to the point that simulation results are comparable to test results [9] . However, product modeling requirements peculiar to specific CAE capabilities, coupled with a need for seamless model evolution from preliminary to detailed product design, have arisen as substantial roadblocks to the use of these technologies to achieve multidisciplinary design optimization.

Computer-based simulation technologies are maturing to the point that simulation results are comparable to test results.


Simulation-Based Design (SBD) is the application of computationally intensive, high fidelity analysis algorithms to product computer models to obtain realistic product performance, without the need for construction and testing of actual physical prototypes of the product under consideration [1] . In the concurrent design methodology, simulation data can be employed to determine an optimal product design through iterative modification and analysis of product computer models. The SBD also supports exploring a substan-*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed tially larger number of design options than is possible in the typically prolonged and costly traditional design-build-test product development cycle.

Simulation-Based Design (SBD) is the application of computationally intensive, high fidelity analysis algorithms to product computer models to obtain realistic product performance, without the need for construction and testing of actual physical prototypes of the product under consideration.


The objective of the research presented is to investigate and develop a multilevel product model that supports SBD of mechanical systems, from preliminary to detailed design stages. With the fast pace of industry moving toward bringing cheaper and better quality products to market in a shorter product development cycle time, the SBD method that employs advanced computer simulation and analysis technologies provides an effective means for practicing Concurrent Engineering. The SBD supports CE, in particular, the version sign engineering environment in which computer-aided design technology is used to assess and improve the quality of a product, not only during the active design phase but through its entire life-cycle&dquo; [2, 3] .

The SBD supports CE, in particular, the version sign engineering environment in which computer-aided design technology is used to assess and improve the quality of a product, not only during the active design phase but through its entire life-cycle&dquo.


Another up-to-date trend connected with investigation of gas porosity relates to the creation of new nano-and mesomaterials. Such materials are formed via consolidation of nano-and mesoscale particles that, initially, possess complex defect structure. Properties of such particles to a large degree are determined just by this defect structure [8] - [17] . Regularities of diffusion growth, healing and motion of such defects in nanoparticles present an important problem for further compactification of nanoparticles and creation of new materials.

Properties of such particles to a large degree are determined just by this defect structure.


Analytical theory of diffusive interaction of the nanoshell and the pore situated at arbitrary distance from particle center was considered in the work [21] . Here, the behaviour of vacancy pore inside solid matrix of spherical shape. With the supposition of quasiequilibrium of diffusive fluxes, the equations have been obtained analytically for the change of the radii of pore and spherical granule as well as of center-to-center distance between the pore and the granule. The absence of critical pore size has been demonstrated unlike the case of inorganic matrix. In general case, pore in such particles dissolves diffusively, while diminishing in size and shifting towards granule center.

Analytical theory of diffusive interaction of the nanoshell and the pore situated at arbitrary distance from particle center was considered in the work.


The quest for high performances and low emissions leads engineers to trim the operating range of combustion devices near their stability limit. In this context, being able to simulate these devices to predict their stability before building them is of primary importance since experimental campaigns are often very costly. For internal combustion (IC) engines with spark ignition, promising concepts like stratified combustion, lean combustion, direct injection (DI), controlled auto-ignition (CAI) combustion or downsizing have appeared. Downsizing relies on the fact that using an engine at higher loads reduces the fuel consumption. This can be achieved by reducing the engine size. However, for such engines, instabilities like knock, rumble or cycle-to-cycle variations (CCV) need to be controlled. High CCV levels can lead to high pollutants formation, serious drivability issues and, as a consequence, a limited operating range [1] .

High CCV levels can lead to high pollutants formation, serious drivability issues and, as a consequence, a limited operating range.


Many research works related to automatic detection of voice pathologies have been carried out in the past few decades. In this context, features are extracted from the speech recordings and they are then processed by classifiers to distinguish normal voice instances from pathological voice recordings. These features are mainly derived from two research fields. One is from speech recognition applications, with signal processing tools used to automatically detect features such as Mel-Frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCC), linear prediction cepstral coefficients (LPCC) and energy and entropy of discrete wavelet packets [2] [3] [4] . Other features come from voice quality measurement according to physiological and etiological research. While pitch, jitter and shimmer are used to detect the roughness of the speech, other characteristics such as harmonic-to-noise ratio (HNR), normalized noise energy (NNE), glottal-to-noise ratio (GNR) and cepstral peak prominence (CPP) represent the breathiness of the speech [5] .

One is from speech recognition applications, with signal processing tools used to automatically detect features such as Mel-Frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCC), linear prediction cepstral coefficients (LPCC) and energy and entropy of discrete wavelet packets.

While pitch, jitter and shimmer are used to detect the roughness of the speech, other characteristics such as harmonic-to-noise ratio (HNR), normalized noise energy (NNE), glottal-to-noise ratio (GNR) and cepstral peak prominence (CPP) represent the breathiness of the speech.


The DCI is a titanium implant, originally developed in 2002 by Dr. Guy Matgé, Luxembourg. It was introduced in clinical use, by him, in 2004. The design was further optimized to better accommodate the implant to the anatomy. In that second generation the footprint was changed from square to rectangular and more sizes were added. The DCI implant, with motion preservation, is more than a static cage. It stabilizes the cervical spine while still providing stable, limited, controlled flexion and extension motion allowing the spine to be functionally dynamic. It also works as a shock absorber, preventing accelerated degeneration in adjacent segments [8, 9] . Thus, the DCI implant aims at combining the advantages of the gold standard "Fusion" with a motion preservation philosophy. The DCI has much greater indications than conventional static fusions & even TDR, because of the controlled rotation. Thus, degenerative arthropathy remains an indication of DCI insertion.

It also works as a shock absorber, preventing accelerated degeneration in adjacent segments.


In comparison with the general Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), which was established in Europe at the end of World War II, organic farming is a relatively new policy field in the European Union (EU). Particular to this policy field is the fact that organic farming emerged as a social movement in opposition to mainstream farming including not only the producers of organic food but also consumers and environmentalists (Tovey, 1997) . This resulted in policy networks that looked quite different from those found in general agricultural policy, where fairly closed systems of policy making had developed, based around general farming organizations and agricultural ministries (Greer, 2002) . However, organic farming policy networks are far from similar across Europe. The number of actors engaged in these networks varies between 13 (Czech Republic) and 26 (Austria), and the density of the networks ranges from 7.9% in Estonia to 45.6% in Denmark. Besides, in a few countries organic farming organizations dominate the networks, whereas in others this role is played by the agricultural 2 ministry (Moschitz and Stolze, 2007) .

Particular to this policy field is the fact that organic farming emerged as a social movement in opposition to mainstream farming including not only the producers of organic food but also consumers and environmentalists.

This resulted in policy networks that looked quite different from those found in general agricultural policy, where fairly closed systems of policy making had developed, based around general farming organizations and agricultural ministries.

Besides, in a few countries organic farming organizations dominate the networks, whereas in others this role is played by the agricultural 2 ministry.


The photoresist reflows when heated above its glasstransition temperature. The resist reflow is mainly used for surface planarization and as a low-cost IC-compatible technique for the fabrication of micro-lenses [7] [8] [9] . The resist reflow technique is also used in the fabrication of submicron contact holes [10, 11] . Recently, resist reflow has also been investigated for IC-compatible fabrication of tapered structures with a relatively large taper ( z/L = 10 μm/1 mm) for optical coupling [3, 6] . The actual surface profile of the reflowed layer is not critical in the fabrication of sub-micron contact holes [11] . Moreover, the 'droplet' shape used in lenses fabricated using reflow is a direct result of the reflow mechanism. However, the shape of a tapered layer for use in an LVOF should be highly linear and requires a more detailed investigation of the mechanisms involved in the reflow process. A more detailed understanding of this mechanism is crucial for assessing the possible angles of the taper and for minimizing the surface roughness. Moreover, an accurate prediction of the resist profile after reflow avoids test runs, hence decreases the processing time and reduces the cost.

The resist reflow is mainly used for surface planarization and as a low-cost IC-compatible technique for the fabrication of micro-lenses.

The resist reflow technique is also used in the fabrication of submicron contact holes.

Recently, resist reflow has also been investigated for IC-compatible fabrication of tapered structures with a relatively large taper ( z/L = 10 μm/1 mm) for optical coupling.

The actual surface profile of the reflowed layer is not critical in the fabrication of sub-micron contact holes.


If not through the real rate channel, how does then monetary policy transmit into output and inflation in the New-Keynesian model? We argue that, as a first pass, one can think of the transmission mechanism as follows. The Euler equation for bonds (the Fisher equation) together with the Taylor rule pin down inflation almost in the same way as in a flexible price model-inflation, first and foremost, depends on current and expected future shocks to the Taylor rule. Given the path of the inflation rate, the New-Keynesian Phillips curve then determines output. The real rate largely only reflects the desire and ability of households to smooth consumption in response to changes in income (output). In the model without 1, for an overview). Over time, the literature has achieved great success in matching the size and timing of these responses by extending the basic model in several dimensions (Christiano et al., 2005) .

Over time, the literature has achieved great success in matching the size and timing of these responses by extending the basic model in several dimensions.


Building envelope represents the boundary between the inner and the outer space with the purpose to protect building occupants from different atmospheric conditions. Its function is to provide a comfortable and healthy environment to the building users with its hygrothermal characteristics which are determined by the structure, adequate selection and order of used materials [1] . In modern society heat loss through the building envelope represents a significant share of the total energy consumption of the facility. Therefore, the aim is to reduce heat loss, increase energy efficiency of buildings and achieve an optimal thermal comfort for its occupants. Thermal performance of the building envelope is primarily determined by thermal transmittance or U-value [W•m ]. This quantity is the starting point for calculating energy consumption for heating and cooling of the building as well as its maintenance cost.

Its function is to provide a comfortable and healthy environment to the building users with its hygrothermal characteristics which are determined by the structure, adequate selection and order of used materials.


For existing buildings and especially for buildings in the design phase the thermal transmittance of the envelope is determined by calculation based on the thermal characteristics of the structural elements. However, this value does not take into account the effects of irregularities and degradation of certain envelope elements caused by aging which may lead to a difference between the theoretical and the actual values [2] . Therefore, it is essential to measure on site thermal transmittance in the real conditions in order to minimize errors in the estimation of heat losses through the building envelope. One simple and effective method for determining actual thermal transmittance through the building element involves measuring the heat flux density at the same time with the inside and the outside air temperature. This insitu measurement is governed by the ISO 9869-1:2014 that defines the heat flow meter method or HFM method [3] . The sensor that measures the temperature of the outside air should not be exposed to direct solar radiation and precipitation. Therefore, the final result is not always reliable, in particular when the building element is light (low specific heat of materials) and if multi-layered air spaces are present (even if slowly ventilated) [4] .

However, this value does not take into account the effects of irregularities and degradation of certain envelope elements caused by aging which may lead to a difference between the theoretical and the actual values.

This insitu measurement is governed by the ISO 9869-1:2014 that defines the heat flow meter method or HFM method.

Therefore, the final result is not always reliable, in particular when the building element is light (low specific heat of materials) and if multi-layered air spaces are present (even if slowly ventilated).


In order to support (range) queries for old versions with the same query performance as an ordinary B + tree on these versions, special partially persistent B-trees have been proposed [20, 8, 5, 28, 21, 30] . An excellent survey is given by Salzberg and Tsotras [25] . The MVBT has been the first partial persistent B-tree with asymptotically optimal performance. MVBT and other partial persistent B-trees have significantly influenced index design for moving object databases [27, 14] . However, the problem of bulk loading and bulk updates have not been addressed in these papers.

In order to support (range) queries for old versions with the same query performance as an ordinary B + tree on these versions, special partially persistent B-trees have been proposed.

An excellent survey is given by Salzberg and Tsotras.

MVBT and other partial persistent B-trees have significantly influenced index design for moving object databases.


Multithreading in Java has become widely used in modern software development. It has become popular for Java programmers to develop concurrent and reactive software like sever software using multithreading [8] . Multiple instances of one thread can be running concurrently in multithreaded programs, while a single threaded program executes one instance of a method at a time.

It has become popular for Java programmers to develop concurrent and reactive software like sever software using multithreading.


With few exceptions, 1% (absolute) reduction of dietary protein content has been found to reduce N excretion from pigs by approximately 10% (relative) (Canh et al., 1998a; Lenis & Jongbloed, 1999) . According to these results, in the present study, total N content in manure was reduced in LP dietary treatments by 10.4% (relative). However, high variability of this variable and low number of replicates used in the present experiment probably did not allow differences to reach significance.

With few exceptions, 1% (absolute) reduction of dietary protein content has been found to reduce N excretion from pigs by approximately 10% (relative).


We have previously given partial reports of some of the concepts presented here. In the UUST workshop, we presented an overview of system capabilities and how they could be applied to autonomous undersea systems [11] . At UIST '02, we gave a demonstration of the linked view techniques but did not provide details or the conceptual framework [13] . This paper represents the first full treatment of frame-of-reference interaction.

In the UUST workshop, we presented an overview of system capabilities and how they could be applied to autonomous undersea systems.

At UIST '02, we gave a demonstration of the linked view techniques but did not provide details or the conceptual framework.


The propositional satisfiability problem (SAT) is an important subject of study in many areas of computer science and is a prototypical N P-complete problem. Among the best known methods currently available for solving certain types of SAT instances are Stochastic Local Search (SLS) procedures; these are typically incomplete, i.e., they cannot determine with certainty that a given propositional formula is unsatisfiable, but they often find models of satisfiable formulae surprisingly effectively [9] . SLS algorithms for SAT typically start by randomly assigning to every variable appearing in a given formula a value of either true or false; then, in each subsequent search step a variable is selected to have its truth assignment flipped from true to false or vice versa. The method of selecting the variable to be flipped in each step is usually guided by a scoring function that minimizes the number of currently unsatisfied clauses.

Among the best known methods currently available for solving certain types of SAT instances are Stochastic Local Search (SLS) procedures; these are typically incomplete, i.e., they cannot determine with certainty that a given propositional formula is unsatisfiable, but they often find models of satisfiable formulae surprisingly effectively.


During processing and handling, particles are exposed to forces that may cause unwanted breakage, commonly referred to as attrition. This can occur through sliding, impact and, most commonly, shear deformation. In many particle processes, such as mixing/blending, granulation and discharge from hoppers, transitions from stationary state to flow are present. Particles are exposed to shear deformation within the transition region, which typically has a width in the range of 5 -10 particle diameters [1] . The bed must dilate within this region to allow flow; consequently significant shear stresses are developed and breakage may occur by abrasion, wear, erosion and fragmentation. The occurrence and extent of breakage are dependent on the prevailing stresses to which the particles are exposed and the resistance of the particles to these stresses.

Particles are exposed to shear deformation within the transition region, which typically has a width in the range of 5 -10 particle diameters.


In the simulated particle bed, the onset of agitation leads to a sudden increase in the deviatoric stress within the bed and the torque acting on the impeller. After two complete rotations the impeller torque reaches a cyclic steady-state condition [13] . The variation of strain rate in cell 3 with impeller position, using the same measurement system, is shown in Figure 5 . The strain rate does not display such a significant variation with impeller position as does the deviatoric stress. The strain rate increases as the impeller approaches the measurement sector, and peaks slightly after the impeller reaches the angular centre of the measurement sector. This corresponds to the increased particle velocity in the immediate wake of the impeller blade. Following this peak, the strain rate decreases and remains relatively unchanged until the other impeller blade approaches. The total strain in each cell after one impeller rotation is shown in Figure 6 . The strain increases with radial position in a similar manner to the deviatoric stress. The strain decreases slightly with vertical position, though this decrease is significantly less pronounced than the decrease in deviatoric stress with vertical position. Throughout the course of the simulations with a median particle size of 3 mm, discussed above, the stresses and strain rates were measured for all combinations of sec and n d shown in Figure 1 . The bed exhibits limited variation in packing fraction. Since the cells are of equal volume, the number of particles in each cell is approximately the same.

After two complete rotations the impeller torque reaches a cyclic steady-state condition.


The alloy bioactivity depends on its surface chemistry, topography, porosity, and roughness; a rough surface enhances the contact with the bone and improves the bioactive bone-binding activity. Thus, surface treatments that form thin or thick, uniform, resistant, porous, rough layers on the implant surface and also incorporate constituent elements of the human bone (calcium and phosphorus) or protective compounds (phosphates, hydroxyapatite) are applied in the last time [4] [5] [6] [7] . Electrochemical anodic or cathodic deposition of the oxide layers is an important, cheap, efficient method to increase the protective and osseointegrative properties of the titanium alloys; oxide nanotubes are formed on the alloy surface being a good matrix for bone cell colonization [8] .

Thus, surface treatments that form thin or thick, uniform, resistant, porous, rough layers on the implant surface and also incorporate constituent elements of the human bone (calcium and phosphorus) or protective compounds (phosphates, hydroxyapatite) are applied in the last time.

Electrochemical anodic or cathodic deposition of the oxide layers is an important, cheap, efficient method to increase the protective and osseointegrative properties of the titanium alloys; oxide nanotubes are formed on the alloy surface being a good matrix for bone cell colonization.


However, assessment of design competence is a complex task [10] . Engineering design consists of multiple skills and competencies such as communication and teamwork as well as individual knowledge. Assessment tools that are systematic, flexible, and time and cost efficient are needed if we wish to adequately gauge students' design competencies as they progress through university programs [10] . As such, in the current study we aimed to develop a questionnaire that systematically targets fundamental aspects of engineering design. The survey along with the findings from the collected data is discussed in detail.

However, assessment of design competence is a complex task.

Assessment tools that are systematic, flexible, and time and cost efficient are needed if we wish to adequately gauge students' design competencies as they progress through university programs.


Several studies have examined the benefits of FW co-digestion with SS, but only a few have examined the constraints. Optimal operational conditions in terms of percentages of co-substrates cannot be univocally defined but should be investigated for each specific case [23] [24] [25] . As for the physical and biochemical processes in a co-digestion system, only some have been investigated; other questions require to be further studied. These include the effect of the temperature on the process performance; the need for pre-treatments; the effect of solid mixtures' moisture content; the feeding systems of the solid mixture; the definition of the optimal stirring of the solid mixture in the digester. Thus, this paper aims to review the current knowledge on co-digestion of FW and fat, oil and grease (FOG) with wastewater treatment sludge. The benefits and constraints of the co-digestion technology will then be discussed with special reference to prospects for the application in Ireland.

Optimal operational conditions in terms of percentages of co-substrates cannot be univocally defined but should be investigated for each specific case.


Qualitative studies carried out alongside trials of complex health system interventions could offer insights into intervention mechanisms, and give authors of systematic reviews of effectiveness an opportunity to explore the reasons for heterogeneity among trial results [38, 40] . For interventions involving lay health workers at least, too few such studies exist at present for these opportunities to be realised. Those conducting trials of lay health worker programmes should incorporate indepth process evaluation, including qualitative analysis to explore the reasons for the outcomes of these complex interventions. Methodological and practical guidance may be needed for trial teams who plan to use qualitative approaches for this purpose.

Qualitative studies carried out alongside trials of complex health system interventions could offer insights into intervention mechanisms, and give authors of systematic reviews of effectiveness an opportunity to explore the reasons for heterogeneity among trial results.


The spontaneous emission coupling factor is typically on the order of 10 À5 $ 10 À4 for LDs and 10 À3 $ 10 À2 for SLDs and semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOA) with the conventional dielectric waveguides [14] . For SPWGs, however, is expected to be higher [15] . In an earlier work, the authors proposed the use of SPWG in SLD instead of the conventional dielectric waveguides [15] . In this paper, first, a five-layer SPWG structure is introduced, and its important functional parameters are addressed. Next, dipole coupling to the new SPWG is considered, and the effect of various parameters on the spontaneous emission coupling factor is discussed. Finally, simulation results are presented which compare the performance of the proposed and the conventional devices in terms of the output power, emission linewidth, and the product of the two, which is a commonly used figure of merit for SLDs.

The spontaneous emission coupling factor is typically on the order of 10 À5 $ 10 À4 for LDs and 10 À3 $ 10 À2 for SLDs and semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOA) with the conventional dielectric waveguides.

For SPWGs, however, is expected to be higher.

In an earlier work, the authors proposed the use of SPWG in SLD instead of the conventional dielectric waveguides.


Stephen Jay Gould describes the passage as "one of the most famous and chilling statements of our century" ( [35] , p. 335). Nevertheless, seven of the eight remaining Justices on the Court joined Holmes's opinion. The lone dissenter in the case, Pierce Butler, a Catholic, did not produce an opinion. Holmes's chilling statement in Buck v. Bell legitimated the forcible sterilization of 60,000+ people across the United States; and the Virginia sterilization law used the same model eugenic language that Hitler later invoked to sterilize millions [34] .

Stephen Jay Gould describes the passage as "one of the most famous and chilling statements of our century" (, p. 335).

Holmes's chilling statement in Buck v. Bell legitimated the forcible sterilization of 60,000+ people across the United States; and the Virginia sterilization law used the same model eugenic language that Hitler later invoked to sterilize millions.


Thus, the enormous racial disparity in the imposition of social exclusion, civic ex-communication, and lifelong disgrace has come to seem legitimate, even necessary: we fail to see how our failures as a collective body are implicated in this disparity. We shift all the responsibility onto their shoulders, only by irresponsibly-indeed, immorally-denying our own. And yet, this entire dynamic has its roots in past unjust acts that were perpetrated on the basis of race ( [89] , p. 36).

And yet, this entire dynamic has its roots in past unjust acts that were perpetrated on the basis of race (, p. 36).


Global efforts are in force to solve both energy and waste problems. About energy problem, the main actions have been oriented to efficiency improvements in energy production and replacement of fossil fuels by various sources of renewable energy [14] . To address waste problem, technologies, operations, and business models oriented to waste reduce, reuse, and recycle have been developed [15] .

About energy problem, the main actions have been oriented to efficiency improvements in energy production and replacement of fossil fuels by various sources of renewable energy.

To address waste problem, technologies, operations, and business models oriented to waste reduce, reuse, and recycle have been developed.


MEMS actuators and sensors are many and different. Micromachined structures movimentation can be carried out using various approaches: such as magnetostrictive, thermal, piezoelectric or electrostatic [6] . In this work, attention is given to work-producing actuators, with silicon being the key material, by an electrical and mechanical point of view. State-of-the-art MEMS devices are often actuated taking advantage of electrostatic forces between charged surfaces at a distance. Electrostatic actuation combines high versatility, fast dynamic response and low power consumption with a simplified design and a fabrication process flow which is made possible by avoiding complex elements like coils or cores and unorthodox materials like shape-memory-alloys or piezoelectric ceramics [7] . It exploits the relation of surface to spacing (not volume to spacing), therefore its force is less affected by scaling [8] .

Micromachined structures movimentation can be carried out using various approaches: such as magnetostrictive, thermal, piezoelectric or electrostatic.

Electrostatic actuation combines high versatility, fast dynamic response and low power consumption with a simplified design and a fabrication process flow which is made possible by avoiding complex elements like coils or cores and unorthodox materials like shape-memory-alloys or piezoelectric ceramics.

It exploits the relation of surface to spacing (not volume to spacing), therefore its force is less affected by scaling.


The mining company has responsibility for reforestation in the area following mining, but most of company failed in reforestation. The degraded natural forests in Indonesia necessitate immediate, comprehensive, and systematic reforestation. Restoration of bare opencast mining land requires several hundred years and consists of the initial, middle, and climax stages (Burger and Zipper, 2002) . Post-opencast mine land is physically, chemically, and biologically infertile habitat that hinders vegetation development (Sheoran et al., 2010) . The utilization of beneficial soil microorganisms has been suggested as a possible approach for the restoration of post-opencast mine land (Juwarkar and Jambhulkar, 2008; Taheri and Bever, 2010) .

Restoration of bare opencast mining land requires several hundred years and consists of the initial, middle, and climax stages.

Post-opencast mine land is physically, chemically, and biologically infertile habitat that hinders vegetation development.

The utilization of beneficial soil microorganisms has been suggested as a possible approach for the restoration of post-opencast mine land.


An alternative method to determine the number of trucks produced or attracted to locations within a smaller community is proposed in this paper. The method proposed uses existing truck traffic counts on a network and then working backwards to determine the origin/destination matrix that could have produced the specific counts observed. The method is presented in a paper by Van Zuylen and Willumsen where the origin/destination matrix estimation procedure was tested on a sample network and determined to produce accurate results [4] . The method is outlined in the text by Ortuzar and Willumsen, and demonstrates how there are a limited number of trip matrices that can be used to replicate the traffic volumes [5] . Once the origin/destination pattern is identified, the total quantity of trucks exiting and entering the zones can be used as actually production and attraction values. A regression analysis can be performed to understand the contributions of the socio-economic data within the zone and a prediction model for truck trip generation developed.

The method is presented in a paper by Van Zuylen and Willumsen where the origin/destination matrix estimation procedure was tested on a sample network and determined to produce accurate results.

The method is outlined in the text by Ortuzar and Willumsen, and demonstrates how there are a limited number of trip matrices that can be used to replicate the traffic volumes.


The characterization of rolling friction is a pertinent issue in many fields ranging from rolling stock, aircraft servo systems, and rotary and linear positioning systems to the control of miniature reading/writing heads, friction drives, and high precision systems. This topic has therefore been gaining importance over the last decades, owing to the increasing demands of industrial applications on positioning accuracy, wear, and controllability. A common concern in all these applications is the rolling element system's behavior between motion reversal points, in other words, the period between motion commencement and the attainment of gross rolling. This period is referred to as prerolling, which is akin to presliding in sliding contacts [1] [2] [3] . Prerolling is marked by a clear hysteresis behavior with nonlocal memory, which lies at the root of the strongly nonlinear dynamic behavior that characterizes systems comprising rolling elements [4, 5] . The design parameters of rolling element systems, such as preload, ball diameter, and track groove angle, evidently, have their influence on the frictional behavior of the system. Despite this fact, a coherent, systematic theory that correlates behavior with parameters has not yet received the attention it deserves in the literature, owing to many reasons, in particular the complexity and the strong nonlinearity of the rolling contact problem.

This period is referred to as prerolling, which is akin to presliding in sliding contacts.

Prerolling is marked by a clear hysteresis behavior with nonlocal memory, which lies at the root of the strongly nonlinear dynamic behavior that characterizes systems comprising rolling elements.


When an elastic body of revolution rolls tractively over another, the traction field in the contact patch changes progressively with the distance traversed from its initial distribution until it reaches a certain steady-state distribution. This distribution, which is independent of the initial field prior to commencement of rolling, does not vary with further rolling. This eventual rolling regime is termed gross rolling; the period building up to it, from commencement of rolling, is termed the prerolling regime. The resultant 2 Advances in Tribology traction in this regime is characterized by rate-independent hysteresis behavior with nonlocal memory in function of the traversed displacement [2] . In this reference, an extensive experimental study of prerolling behavior of a ball in Vgroove application has been reported, where the reader may also find a short overview of literature around the subject. The conclusions and correlations presented in that study remained, however, empirical.

The resultant 2 Advances in Tribology traction in this regime is characterized by rate-independent hysteresis behavior with nonlocal memory in function of the traversed displacement.


An industrial robot is a reprogrammable multifunctional manipulator designed to move materials, parts, tools or other devices by means of variable programmed motions and to perform a variety of other tasks (Rao, 2007) . Industrial robots can perform repetitious, difficult and hazardous tasks (like assembly, machine loading, material handling, spray painting and welding) with precision, and can also significantly improve quality and productivity of the manufacturing organizations. Robots with varying capabilities and specifications are now available in the market dedicated to perform a wide range of operations. Selection of the robot to suit a particular application and manufacturing environment from a large number of candidate alternatives has now become a challenging task. Since a huge amount of initial investment is required for robot acquisition and installation, appropriate robot selection calls for a careful examination and assessment of the requirements as well as characteristics of the alternatives, which is a process that can only be achieved from the use of quantitative tools. The complexity of the problem can be better understood when one realizes that there are over 75 attributes that are to be considered while selecting a robot for a particular industrial application (Bhangale et al., 2004) . Among these attributes, cost, load carrying capacity, velocity, weight of the robot, material of robot, drive systems, size of the robot, accuracy of the robot, geometrical dexterity, path measuring systems, programming flexibility, man-machine interface and availability of the diagnostic software are considered to be the most important ones. Many of these attributes are conflicting in nature and have different units, which cannot be unified and compared as they are. Thus, the decision makers are experiencing difficulties in determining the most suitable robot alternative due to the involvement of a large number of conflicting and non-commensurate robot performance characteristics.

An industrial robot is a reprogrammable multifunctional manipulator designed to move materials, parts, tools or other devices by means of variable programmed motions and to perform a variety of other tasks.

The complexity of the problem can be better understood when one realizes that there are over 75 attributes that are to be considered while selecting a robot for a particular industrial application.


Akysis species are diagnosed by the anterior margin of the pectoral spine with a notch visible dorsally and the nasals with expansions beyond the canal-bearing region (de Pinna, 1996) . Externally, they can be distinguished by a combination of tuberculate skin, small size (typically under 50 mm SL), and a color pattern typically consisting of yellow patches or bands on a brown body. The genus is found in fast flowing streams and rivers in Southeast Asia, more specifically in the area bordered by the Irrawaddy River drainage to the west, the Mekong delta to the east, the Lancanjiang (upper Mekong) drainage to the north and the Citarum River drainage to the south. There is considerable hidden diversity within the genus, with more than half of the 17 valid species described within the last decade (Ferraris, 2007; Page et al., 2007) .

Akysis species are diagnosed by the anterior margin of the pectoral spine with a notch visible dorsally and the nasals with expansions beyond the canal-bearing region.

There is considerable hidden diversity within the genus, with more than half of the 17 valid species described within the last decade.


The Eastern Amazon region is characterised by a hot and humid climate, with a mean air temperature (AT) of 26.8 °C, a relative humidity (RH) of 83%, and rainfall of 2,876.9 mm each year (Pachêco et al., 2009) . Given these climatic conditions, buffalo production is satisfactory across the different native grassland ecosystems and cultured in dry land and floodplains. However, buffaloes can become stressed when exposed to high temperatures and direct sunlight, which consequently decreases their productive and reproductive performance. Thus, the adoption of production systems such as the silvopasture system (SPS) is important because the trees located in the pasture decrease the intensity of direct solar radiation, thereby providing greater thermal comfort and hence more productive buffaloes (Castro et al., 2008; Moraes Júnior et al., 2010) .

The Eastern Amazon region is characterised by a hot and humid climate, with a mean air temperature (AT) of 26.8 °C, a relative humidity (RH) of 83%, and rainfall of 2,876.9 mm each year.

Thus, the adoption of production systems such as the silvopasture system (SPS) is important because the trees located in the pasture decrease the intensity of direct solar radiation, thereby providing greater thermal comfort and hence more productive buffaloes.


A significant number of studies have been conducted in the last decades to better understand this phenomenon. In a problem of this type, the model has to guarantee the coupling between the independent systems by establishing the dynamic equilibrium through two sets of equations of motion, one for the vehicle and one for the structure. One way to solve these equations is through an iterative procedure which ensures the coupling between the two systems [1] [2] [3] . Such methods, despite being simpler to implement, may require a large computational effort and can lead to convergence problems.

One way to solve these equations is through an iterative procedure which ensures the coupling between the two systems.


Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC) is the most comprehensive multivariable device among the FACTS controllers [2] . Simultaneous control of multiple power system variables with UPFC imposes enormous difficulties. In addition, the complexity of the UPFC control increases due to the fact that the controlled and the control variables interact with each other.

Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC) is the most comprehensive multivariable device among the FACTS controllers.


We compared the power of various sample sizes to detect each food item in the diet estimates, and the relationship was a decreasing asymptotic function approaching 0. The Monte Carlo procedure we used allows estimating the standard error of a statistic, using repeated samples from the original data set (Manly 1998) . To deal with a finite population, such as the population of scats from a wolf pack, we obtained good estimates of precision by estimating the standard error using repeated samples from the original data set without replacement, using this form of Monte Carlo simulation (Manly 1996) . With samples from the highly nonnormal distribution that are often encountered in biological studies, the method has the potential to be the most useful available approach for determining sample sizes (Manly 1998) .

The Monte Carlo procedure we used allows estimating the standard error of a statistic, using repeated samples from the original data set.

To deal with a finite population, such as the population of scats from a wolf pack, we obtained good estimates of precision by estimating the standard error using repeated samples from the original data set without replacement, using this form of Monte Carlo simulation.

With samples from the highly nonnormal distribution that are often encountered in biological studies, the method has the potential to be the most useful available approach for determining sample sizes.


The first three conditions allow for the formation of a graphitic layer on top of the catalyst film in a similar way to what reported in literature for catalytic deposition processes of graphite/graphene. When also the fourth condition is satisfied, then nanoparticles or patches of catalyst can reshape underneath the graphitic top layer to initiate CNT growth. Consequently, the top layer is lifted up by the underlying CNT [17] . In this phase, excess of catalyst can break and remain in the tubes interior as particles.

Consequently, the top layer is lifted up by the underlying CNT.


Thicker films either gave CNT with a graphite layer on top (1.9-Co) or were inactive (2.2-Ni and 5-Ni) with only a 40s pretreatment. However, when the vacuum anneal pretreatment time was increased to 2 min also the 1.9-Co and 2.2-Ni yielded CNT without the graphitic layer indicating that the catalyst film was completely transformed into nanoparticles (Figures 8(a) and 8(b) ). Even the 5 nm thick Ni film could eventually be broken into large patches after 10 min of vacuum anneal. Note that the assistance of plasma and reducing gasses may aid the dewetting of thick films [9] .

Note that the assistance of plasma and reducing gasses may aid the dewetting of thick films.


Journal of Nanomaterials Thus far, we have confirmed the notion that CNTs are formed only when nanoparticles are present before the growth step commences. Now, we will discuss the intermediate phase where the carbon precursor gas (acetylene) is introduced when the catalyst film is still, at least partly, intact. Indeed, the reshaping dynamic for films thicker than 1.3 nm occurs on a time scale of minutes. Hence, when acetylene is introduced in the chamber immediately after the load and stabilization steps, as for Figure 2 , little time is left for these films to transform into nanoparticles. In the 2.2 nm and 5 nm Ni films, no growth at all was observed after 40 s of pretreatment. As the catalyst is active, though, these layers have been covered by a graphitic coating as confirmed by the presence of D and G peaks in the Raman spectra ( Figure 6 ). The 1.9 nm Co sample has a thickness intermediate to the extreme cases mentioned above. It is sufficiently thick to be continuous after its deposition but still sufficiently thin to fragment into nanoparticles when the pretreatment time allows for it. The incubation time of 20 s observed in Figure 7 (a) indicates that CNT growth does not occur immediately after the introduction of acetylene. Hence, the film retains its 2D film-like shape during the whole load and stabilization steps and at least for the first seconds of the growth steps. Because the catalyst is active, the decomposition of acetylene can occur and a graphitic layer is formed on the surface of the film at this stage, similarly to what happens in catalyzed deposition processes of graphene [39] .

Because the catalyst is active, the decomposition of acetylene can occur and a graphitic layer is formed on the surface of the film at this stage, similarly to what happens in catalyzed deposition processes of graphene.


In the 1.9-Co sample, the crusty top layer indeed connects the tips of all neighboring CNTs as confirmed by the TEM image in Figure 4 (a). Underneath the crust, straight multiwall CNTs are present as shown at high magnification in Figures 4(b) and 4(c). Note that under different growth conditions, carbon nanofibers were found underneath similarly crusted top layers [19] . The fact that the CNTs are still connected to the top layer allows us to unambiguously locate the root of the tubes. From TEM, it follows that a cobalt nanoparticle sits at the base or root of the CNT. Arrows in Figure 4 (a) indicate the particles in the tubes and a high-resolution image of a cobalt nanoparticle at the root of one CNT are shown in Figure 4 (e).

Note that under different growth conditions, carbon nanofibers were found underneath similarly crusted top layers.


Another approach for efficient variability-aware verification would be to replace compile-time variability with run-time variability (or non-determinism) [37] . In particular, in this work we consider a class of variability-related transformations that transform a program family into a single program, whose outcomes are equal to the union of all outcomes of individual variants. We call the corresponding transformations outcome-preserving. Subsequently, existing single-program analysis tools (verification oracles) that can handle non-determinism (run-time variability) can be used to analyze the generated single program. Finally, the obtained results are interpreted back on the individual variants. The overview of this approach is given in Figure 1 . Instead of using specialized variability-aware tools to analyze program families (which would be tedious and labor intensive), our transformation-based approach allows us to use the standard off-the-shelf single-program analysis tools to achieve the same goal. Nevertheless, the limitation of our approach is that we may not obtain the most precise conclusive results for all individual variants. Of course, this depends on the particular analysis and tool that we use.

Another approach for efficient variability-aware verification would be to replace compile-time variability with run-time variability (or non-determinism).


As elements of extinction risk, the three main components of the IUCN criteria can be used to prioritise species that are most at risk from further decline (including via habitat loss). IUCN threat categories are often used as a direct measure of the degree to which species are at risk from extinction, despite this constituting a somewhat incomplete conservation prioritisation (Possingham et al. 2002; Collen et al. 2016) . However, as data collation and assessment are time-and resource-intensive activities, an approach which identifies at-risk species based on threshold elements (or a subset) of IUCN Red List criteria has the potential to increase the speed of conservation assessments and prioritisation. Importantly, rapid assessments-preliminary coarse-scale assessments which help prioritise taxa by flagging the potential for significant increases in extinction 1 3 risk-facilitate a precautionary approach to conservation actions (i.e. What would the threat status of a species be if there was further loss of known sites? What species cannot tolerate further loss without significantly increasing their extinction risk?).

IUCN threat categories are often used as a direct measure of the degree to which species are at risk from extinction, despite this constituting a somewhat incomplete conservation prioritisation.


The need for conservation policy makers to move away from a model solely focusing on the species with the highest threat status (such as already listed CR species) and towards a more balanced proactive approach, which also seeks to identify and protect potentially at risk species at an early stage, has been highlighted in a number of recent studies (Cardillo and Meijaard 2012; Walls 2018) . This is especially relevant where there are likely threatened species which have not been formally assessed or listed, and species with listings that are out of date. We suggest that rapid assessments, using the major components of the IUCN criteria to identify species most at risk of further declines, are a particularly useful tool for prioritising species that are: (1) unassessed but which may qualify as CR; (2) have 1 3 out-of-date assessments; and (3) VU and EN species which already meet some (but not all) thresholds for CR and may move to a higher threat category with further loss. For currently unlisted species, focusing on identifying those which are closest to extinction is the most proactive approach; waiting for them to be assessed under the current system it may be too late to effectively conserve them. For those species which have already been assessed and which we know are threatened, the imperative is then to identify those species which are potentially being pushed towards extinction faster than others, regardless of their current threat status. This method of rapid assessment could serve as a tool which conservation policymakers can begin to incorporate a more proactive and preventative approach to conservation.

The need for conservation policy makers to move away from a model solely focusing on the species with the highest threat status (such as already listed CR species) and towards a more balanced proactive approach, which also seeks to identify and protect potentially at risk species at an early stage, has been highlighted in a number of recent studies.


As recently proposed, microcracking process involves the breaking of a large number of atomic bonds, which is expected to generate unbalanced charge distributions, of opposite sign, on the opposite sides of the microfractures and, consequently, the onset of strong local electric fields. This has been observed in experiments on the breaking of adhesion bonds [8] . As rocks contain micro-cavities with adsorbed gases, it is therefore possible that the breakdown voltage of the gases can be locally exceeded with generation of micro-electrical discharges and EME.

This has been observed in experiments on the breaking of adhesion bonds.


Keratitis of any cause contributed 10.5% of ocular morbidity in the study, and is particularly recognized for causing blinding corneal scars. Children presenting with keratitis are at risk of developing irreversible ocular deficits, such as those resulting from amblyopia [25] . Therefore, the diagnosis and treatment of microbial keratitis in children is of utmost importance. The frequency of keratitis in this study was consistent with the report in south-western Nigeria in which corneal infection constituted more than one third of the infections of the eye and adenxia [22] . Corneal scarring was also one of the ocular morbidity seen in the study groups, and leads to visual impairment that is difficult to treat except with corneal surgery, which may not be easily available to the population; then, in addition, it is even more problematic in childhood because amblyopia may develop, which can then limit the benefits of surgery later in life. The national survey on blindness, low vision and trachoma in Ethiopia revealed that prevalence of active trachoma in 1-9 years old children was very high and clearly indicates the burden of trachoma in a rapidly growing population [26] . Moreover, the southern regional state has one of the highest prevalence of active trachoma in the survey (33.2%). The present study was carried out in a population where trachoma had been prevalent and mass treatment of Zithromax has been distributed for the last three years and intensive outreach programs have been conducted targeting implementation of SAFE (S = surgical care, A = antibiotics, F = facial cleanliness, E = environmental improvement) strategy in the surrounding communities. Even if the result of this study encourages community education as an essential part in prevention of trachoma, population based prevalence survey is mandatory to evaluate the outcome of trachoma control program carried out in study area.

Children presenting with keratitis are at risk of developing irreversible ocular deficits, such as those resulting from amblyopia.

The frequency of keratitis in this study was consistent with the report in south-western Nigeria in which corneal infection constituted more than one third of the infections of the eye and adenxia.

The national survey on blindness, low vision and trachoma in Ethiopia revealed that prevalence of active trachoma in 1-9 years old children was very high and clearly indicates the burden of trachoma in a rapidly growing population.


In this study, we have used safely functionalized multiwalled CNTs ( -MWCNTs) in producing conductive cotton textiles using a simple dipping-drying coating method. To functionalize the MWCNTs a citric-acid-assisted plasma functionalization process is used, which is less destructive to the CNT structure [23] . The oxygen-containing surface groups on the -MWCNTs enable them to stably disperse in water to produce MWCNT ink, which subsequently are incorporated in the cotton textile by repeatedly dipping the textile into it. The -MWCNT coated cotton ( -MWCNTs/cotton) textile exhibits enhanced electrical conductivity and improved thermal stability. Therefore, the textile is proposed to be used as light-weight and flexible electrothermal heating element in everyday clothing, which can efficiently heat up surfaces of any size and shape featuring a rapid thermal response. The textile could open new avenues in designing more comfortable consumer products and new types of user interaction concepts.

To functionalize the MWCNTs a citric-acid-assisted plasma functionalization process is used, which is less destructive to the CNT structure.


Various sanitizers have been used in the past in hydrocooling and packing operations. Chlorine in water has been used during hydro-cooling and in disinfection of pack house, packaging and transport facilities. Hydrogen peroxide (food grade) has also been used as a disinfectant at concentrations of 0.5% or less, and is effective in inhibiting development of postharvest decay caused by a number of fungi (Acedo, 2010) . Although there are many sanitizers available, the cost of acquisition and their suitability for application in the food industry poses a challenge on their use. Other substances used include Organic and inorganic salts which must be of the Generally Regarded as Safe category(GRAS) (Youssef et al., 2012) .

Hydrogen peroxide (food grade) has also been used as a disinfectant at concentrations of 0.5% or less, and is effective in inhibiting development of postharvest decay caused by a number of fungi.

Other substances used include Organic and inorganic salts which must be of the Generally Regarded as Safe category(GRAS).


Furthermore, in this investigation a block structured mesh has been employed since it is particularly suited to the automatic grid generation in the context of parametric and optimum design problems. In addition, the time required for solving unstructured meshes in CFD problems is often higher than for the structured ones (Zhang, Jia, Wang, & Altinakar, 2013) . The solver of choice has been OpenFOAM, which is a free, open source CFD software package based on the finite volume method. The success of the described strategy would allow the application of this methodology in the parametric design of bridge box decks. Its implementation in the frame of the numerical shape optimization of bridge deck sections considering aeroelastic responses has already been proposed by some of the authors of this work (Hernández, Nieto, Jurado, & Pérez, 2012) .

In addition, the time required for solving unstructured meshes in CFD problems is often higher than for the structured ones.

Its implementation in the frame of the numerical shape optimization of bridge deck sections considering aeroelastic responses has already been proposed by some of the authors of this work.


HBV screening is carried out in 23 European Union countries covered by the ECDC report except Lithuania, Romania and Norway. In most countries, including Poland screening is based on detection of Hepatitis B surface antigen -HBsAg [2] . Poland did not have data on the prevalence of screening for the presence of HBsAg, however, among the 13 countries that provided such data 8 determined the prevalence of screening at a level exceeding 95% [2] . In the presented results the determination of HBsAg was performed in 96% of patients, which places our studied population among countries with a high percentage of patients who were screened for HBV. The risk of vertical transmission depends on the serological status of the pregnant woman infected with HBV. It is highest in the presence of HBsAg and HBeAg antigen in the blood -70-90%, while the presence of only HBsAg reduce the risk of vertical transmission to 15% [7, 8] . Due to the fact that there is a high risk of vertical transmission it is necessary to conduct screening for HBV infection among pregnant women, because it enables the implementation of appropriate treatment for newborn which largely prevents the infection in the chronic form. The only available method of prevention of neonatal infection is the administration of the vaccine and specific immunoglobulin. The effectiveness of such treatment is estimated at 90% [9] .

In most countries, including Poland screening is based on detection of Hepatitis B surface antigen -HBsAg.

Poland did not have data on the prevalence of screening for the presence of HBsAg, however, among the 13 countries that provided such data 8 determined the prevalence of screening at a level exceeding 95%.

It is highest in the presence of HBsAg and HBeAg antigen in the blood -70-90%, while the presence of only HBsAg reduce the risk of vertical transmission to 15%.

The effectiveness of such treatment is estimated at 90%.


In this context, identifying the determinants of prices for new and used cars assumes increasing relevance, both from a business and from a policy perspective. For auto manufacturers, the effects of brand or model name and technical characteristics are especially important since the ability of brands to maintain their residual values in the second-hand market has an immediate bearing on the choices of car purchasers in the primary market. For policy makers, a key question regards the contribution of fuel economy to the car price given the European Union's current legislation mandating increased efficiency of new cars as a means to reduce CO 2 in the transport sector (Frondel et al. 2011) . To the extent that car purchasers are turning increasingly to the secondary market, the effectiveness of this legislation, which does not apply to used cars, may be undermined.

For policy makers, a key question regards the contribution of fuel economy to the car price given the European Union's current legislation mandating increased efficiency of new cars as a means to reduce CO 2 in the transport sector.


The conventional method for the identification of AM fungi consists in collecting spores and examining their morphological characteristics. Identification of AM fungi according to morphological features of the spores may cause difficulties because, depending on conditions such as the time of year, the fungi can produce large amounts of spores or not produce them at all, which means that fungi that are not sporulating may not be detected. In addition, difficulties in the identification of mycorrhizal fungi can be due to the different dynamics of spore production depending on the species of fungus, and dimorphism among certain species of AM fungi (Redecker et al. 2003) . For these reasons, the aim is to develop methods for rapid identification of AM fungi in plant roots. The technique used here makes it possible to perform rapid tests for the detection of mycorrhizal fungi in the roots of plants and an initial taxonomic classification of these fungi. The results obtained complement the observations of plants in the field and can be used to assess the effectiveness and usefulness of the biopreparations in the cultivation of strawberry. Streszczenie W rolnictwie ekologicznym stosuje się preparaty stymulujące wzrost i rozwój roślin, co zastępuje nawożenie mineralne. Wprowadzanie nowych biopreparatów do produkcji ogrodniczej wymaga oceny ich wpływu na wzrost i plonowanie roślin. Ważnym wskaźnikiem oddziaływania bioproduktów jest określenie obecności w korzeniach roślin arbuskularnych grzybów mikoryzowych (AMF). Do wykrywania grzybów AMF w korzeniach roślin, oprócz metod konwencjonalnych, stosuje się coraz częściej techniki biologii molekularnej, które umożliwiają wykrycie i zidentyfikowanie grzybów AMF w korzeniach roślin. Celem pracy była identyfikacja oraz wstępna klasyfikacja taksonomiczna grzybów AMF w korzeniach roślin truskawki 'Elkat', nawożonych biopreparatami przy użyciu techniki zagnieżdżonego PCR.

In addition, difficulties in the identification of mycorrhizal fungi can be due to the different dynamics of spore production depending on the species of fungus, and dimorphism among certain species of AM fungi.


Such volatility structures that vanish as the short rate tends to zero contradict the accumulated empirical evidence. There have been several periods in economic history when short-term rates have fallen to zero. In the United States, this happened in the 1930s. More recently, since the mid-1990s short-term interest rates in Japan have stayed below 1%, at times reaching zero. However, even though the short rates have stayed near zero, volatility has remained quite high throughout the period (Goldstein and Keirstead 1997) . Obviously, both the Gaussian models that allow the rates to become negative and the lognormal or square-root models with zero an unattainable boundary and vanishing volatility are inadequate in the low interest rate regime.

However, even though the short rates have stayed near zero, volatility has remained quite high throughout the period.


Many problems of practical importance, such as GPS-related ones, may be expressed as TSP instances. Typically, routing problems of this type need efficient solutions that must be found in a reasonable time interval. In an effort to obtain good solutions within an acceptable time interval, it is generally admissible to accept non optimal solutions computed by implementing heuristic and metaheuristic techniques [4] . Heuristics are fast approximation algorithms that can be categorized into heuristics of construction and heuristics of improvement. Initial feasible solutions are found by construction heuristics, whereas better solutions are obtained via the use of improvement heuristics. For this reason improvement heuristics are usually applied repeatedly. Metaheuristics are general optimization frameworks which permit the adaption of their internal parameters so as to become efficient algorithms able to solve particular of optimization problems.

In an effort to obtain good solutions within an acceptable time interval, it is generally admissible to accept non optimal solutions computed by implementing heuristic and metaheuristic techniques.


In this paper, we have focused on the influence of individual characteristics of potential insurance consumers. Employment is one of the most important factors influencing insurance coverage, but education is interactive with other occupational characteristics, and is associated with differences in employment earnings and benefits due to resulting labor market choices. The potential consumers with elementary education have average revenues lower than the revenues of potential consumers with higher education. So, prior researches have shown that fully employed persons with higher levels of formal education are more likely to have insurance (Dewar, 1998) .

So, prior researches have shown that fully employed persons with higher levels of formal education are more likely to have insurance.


The structure of these categories is well understood by work of Amiot [1] . In fact, they are triangle equivalent to the orbit category of the bounded derived category D b (mod(k ∆)) of a path algebra of a quiver of Dynkin type ∆ with respect to a specific group of automorphisms of D b (mod(k ∆)). From this we define the type of an algebraic triangulated category to be (∆, r, t) where r, t depend on the group of automorphisms.

The structure of these categories is well understood by work of Amiot.


When the heterogeneous semiconductors are illuminated with UV-light, the electron/hole pairs are produced with electrons promoted to the conduction band and leaving the positive holes in the valence band. These electron hole pairs can either recombine or can interact separately with other molecules and induce a complex series of reactions that might result in the complete degradation of the dye pollutants adsorbed on the surface of the semiconductor materials [29] [30] [31] . Based on the PL results mentioned above, the peak at 378 nm is due to the recombination of a photogenerated hole with an electron occupying the oxygen vacancies in the ZnO nanostructures, whereas the peak at 495 nm is caused by the recombination of electrons in single-occupied oxygen vacancies [31] . The low PL spectrum intensity at 378 nm (Figure 4(a) , propeller-shaped ZnO) indicates that the rate of the recombination between photogenerated holes and electrons might be lower on the surface of propeller-shaped ZnO nanostructures than that of flower-shaped ZnO nanostructures, which is beneficial for the photocatalytic reaction.

These electron hole pairs can either recombine or can interact separately with other molecules and induce a complex series of reactions that might result in the complete degradation of the dye pollutants adsorbed on the surface of the semiconductor materials.

Based on the PL results mentioned above, the peak at 378 nm is due to the recombination of a photogenerated hole with an electron occupying the oxygen vacancies in the ZnO nanostructures, whereas the peak at 495 nm is caused by the recombination of electrons in single-occupied oxygen vacancies.


In the context of increasing cross-border movements of people and growing international trade of animals and animal products, efficient and reliable surveillance systems are the basis to assess the actual disease situation in a country or region. Mandatory notification systems are essential in human and animal health as they allow health authorities to react promptly and control the spread of diseases. In France, clinical (or ''passive'') surveillance covers 65 animal diseases that may cause important public health or economical impacts; among them, 60% are sporadic or currently exotic. Passive surveillance systems play an important role in early warning systems but their sensitivity in detecting cases has not been routinely evaluated [1] .

Passive surveillance systems play an important role in early warning systems but their sensitivity in detecting cases has not been routinely evaluated.


As a complex process, angiogenesis is under both positive and negative control. Evaluating the key components of initiation and control of angiogenesis has lead to novel strategies to inhibit it. Growth factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor original article (VEGF), can be selectively targeted in multiple ways to block their stimulation by inhibition of endothelial cell proliferation [13] .

Growth factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor original article (VEGF), can be selectively targeted in multiple ways to block their stimulation by inhibition of endothelial cell proliferation.


It is widely accepted that postmenopausal women with fragility fractures have a high risk of subsequent fractures, and are therefore eligible for treatment to reduce the risk of future fractures [16] [17] [18] . Previous studies showed that the OSTA may be a simple and effective tool for identifying postmenopausal women at increased risk of nonvertebral fractures and vertebral deformity [5, 19] . However, it was not clear whether the OSTA index could identify painful new vertebral fractures. In our study population, we assessed the ability of OSTA to identify postmenopausal women with painful new vertebral fractures. All 164 painful new vertebral fractures were confirmed by reasonable clinical criteria, and most of the patients accepted PKP treatment. Sensitivity and specificity values of 82% and 67%, respectively, were obtained with an OSTA cut-off value ≤ −1. The area under the ROC curve relating the OSTA index to new vertebral fractures was 0.70. The prevalence of vertebral deformities according to the OSTA index was 27.5% (134/487) in the increased risk group, and 4.2% (30/714) in the low risk group. Our findings showed the OSTA index may be a useful tool to screen for new painful vertebral fractures.

It is widely accepted that postmenopausal women with fragility fractures have a high risk of subsequent fractures, and are therefore eligible for treatment to reduce the risk of future fractures.

Previous studies showed that the OSTA may be a simple and effective tool for identifying postmenopausal women at increased risk of nonvertebral fractures and vertebral deformity.


Accordingly, we believe that it is smarter, more practical and optimal to explicitly consider the number-of-transmitters constraint in designing CR sensing schemes. To the best of our knowledge, this paper is the first to adopt this approach; our major motivation being the fact that in real networks, the number of available channels is usually greater than the number of transmitters on the nodes in the network. We consider that the RF front-end of the receiver has wideband architecture so the SU can sense/receive from a wideband channel, more specifically, it can simultaneously sense the multiple narrowband subchannels of the wideband channel so-called wideband joint detection [3] . In real network deployments, a node typically desires to transmit data to a specific remote node(s) over a specific channel(s) and so we consider that each of the SU's N transmitters will operate over single narrowband subchannels of the wideband channel. In other words, we consider that spectrum sensing is done over a wideband channel whereas data transmission is done over individual narrowband channels.

We consider that the RF front-end of the receiver has wideband architecture so the SU can sense/receive from a wideband channel, more specifically, it can simultaneously sense the multiple narrowband subchannels of the wideband channel so-called wideband joint detection.


In this regard, increased markers of oxidative stress observed in the healthy Italian subjects might be due to changes from a Mediterranean to Continental dietary habits. Dietary patterns in the Mediterranean countries are changing rapidly. A dietary shift towards the unhealthy Western-style diet, with increased consumption of saturated fats and refined carbohydrates has already been reported (Kafatos et al. 1997) . Nonadherence to a Mediterranean diet correlates well with the total, as well as cardiovascular mortality in these populations (Trichopoulou et al. 2003) .

A dietary shift towards the unhealthy Western-style diet, with increased consumption of saturated fats and refined carbohydrates has already been reported.

Nonadherence to a Mediterranean diet correlates well with the total, as well as cardiovascular mortality in these populations.


FunctionS(s, ξ) is depicted in Fig. 3 . To suppress theoretical errors ofS we have to use total and elastic pp rates at 7 TeV, since all the models for absorptive corrections are normalized to pp cross-sections. At present we can estimate these errors to be less than several percents at 7 TeV since we have precise data from TOTEM [25] .

FunctionS(s, ξ) is depicted in Fig. 3 .

At present we can estimate these errors to be less than several percents at 7 TeV since we have precise data from TOTEM.


Osteosarcomas of the long bones frequently develop metastatic tumor, especially to the lungs. In contrast, RIS of the skull does not exhibit this tendency. Moreover, these tumors have a poor prognosis because of rapid local growth [19] .

Moreover, these tumors have a poor prognosis because of rapid local growth.


In this paper, a novel method is presented for fire detection on static images. Rather than using a set of rules in color space, the image data is treated as a Markov Random Field (MRF). MRF theory is a powerful tool for modeling contextual dependencies, and has succesfully been applied to a variety of texture classification problems [15, 16] . The MRF we propose employs a custom potential function shaped by training data. A classifier evaluates the energy function of the MRF per image block to detect blocks on the border of flames. The method is shown to yield near perfect detection rates on a variety of fires, while generating less false alarms than a state-of-the-art fixed-threshold color filter.

MRF theory is a powerful tool for modeling contextual dependencies, and has succesfully been applied to a variety of texture classification problems.


Organization of the horse genome The diploid genome of the domestic horse (Equus caballus) consists of 64 chromosomes, and 13 pairs of the autosomes are biarmed, while the other 18 pairs of the autosomes are acrocentric. The X chromosome is large and metacentric, the Y chromosome small and submetacentric. It is remarkable that the equus przewalski genome consists of 66 chromosomes and that 12 pairs of its autosomes are metacentric and 20 pairs are acrocentric. One pair of the horses` acrocentric chromosomes (ECA5) contains two of the przewalski`s chromosomes (EPR23 and EPR24), hence it is possible to mate przewalski and domestic horse and to produce fertile offsprings (AHRENS and STRANZINGER, 2005) .

One pair of the horses` acrocentric chromosomes (ECA5) contains two of the przewalski`s chromosomes (EPR23 and EPR24), hence it is possible to mate przewalski and domestic horse and to produce fertile offsprings.


In our study the melanin specificity of 68 Ga-NODAGA-PCA was also investigated in lung metastasis mouse model. This syngenic C57BL/6 animal model is widely used in preclinical melanoma research [32, 33] . In this present study we developed lung metastases by intravenous injection of 1x10 5 B16-F10 melanoma cells. By analyzing the miniPET/CT images metastatic tumor lesions were clearly visualized in the lungs 90 min after 68 Ga-NODAGA-PCA injection (Fig. 6C) with low background accumulation. After the quantitative evaluation of the PET images approximately 6-8-fold higher 68 Ga-NODAGA-PCA accumulation was observed in B16-F10 metastases than that of the background (lung or muscle) uptake.

This syngenic C57BL/6 animal model is widely used in preclinical melanoma research.


Bias is inherent in all self-report instruments regardless of how administered (Hill & Betz, 2005) . Bias is systematic error that reduces the validity of an evaluation tool. The traditional prospective pretest may encounter a response-shift related to participants' changed standards of measurement after the intervention (Rohs et al., 2001) . With the retrospective pretestposttest method, the standard of measurement is the same for both tests. However, the retrospective format is vulnerable to other threats to validity such as motivational bias (Hill & Betz, 2005) . The ultimate goal of a well-developed evaluation tool is to minimize the sources of bias, while addressing administration and client burden issues.

Bias is inherent in all self-report instruments regardless of how administered.

The traditional prospective pretest may encounter a response-shift related to participants' changed standards of measurement after the intervention.

However, the retrospective format is vulnerable to other threats to validity such as motivational bias.


A common issue with the retrospective pretest method with adults is overestimation of program effect caused by motivational factors such as justification of effort or socially desirable change (Hill & Betz, 2005) . Motivational bias may influence the outcome of a lifestyle intervention such as EatFit. When adolescents have spent time and effort participating in EatFit and then are asked to rate their physical activity change or improvement from before to after the program, behavior and self-efficacy change scores may be inflated as a result of this particular bias (Hill & Betz, 2005) . However, this type of bias could affect both testing formats with an inflated posttest. Our results suggest that this type of bias was not present for the dietary behavior and self-efficacy measures.

A common issue with the retrospective pretest method with adults is overestimation of program effect caused by motivational factors such as justification of effort or socially desirable change.

When adolescents have spent time and effort participating in EatFit and then are asked to rate their physical activity change or improvement from before to after the program, behavior and self-efficacy change scores may be inflated as a result of this particular bias.


The pattern of results for physical activity was different from the pattern for dietary items. In comparison to the dietary variables, the physical activity variables were significantly correlated, but the paired t tests indicated different means, with students scoring themselves lower on the retrospective pretest. This difference may indicate that physical activity is particularly vulnerable to response-shift bias found in other traditional pre-post test studies of adults resulting in an underestimation of the program results. This interpretation seems reasonable given that the traditional prospective pretest results showed students decreasing physical activity behaviors while making no change in self-efficacy after receiving nine lessons of a nutrition and physical activity intervention. In addition, the results from the prospective pretest method do not support the Social Cognitive Theory's (SCT) construct where change in selfefficacy precedes change in behavior (Bandura, 1986) . However, the retrospective pattern of results is consistent with SCT, with a statistically significant increase in physical activity selfefficacy but not for physical activity behaviors. The correlation between change in physical activity behavior and change in physical activity self-efficacy using the retrospective pretest was significant (r = .41, p < .0001), indicating that behavior change was related to change in selfefficacy as anticipated by SCT. The same was true for the relationship between change in dietary behavior and change in self-efficacy (r = .50, p < .0001).

In addition, the results from the prospective pretest method do not support the Social Cognitive Theory's (SCT) construct where change in selfefficacy precedes change in behavior.


The AOM/DSS induced neoplasm resembles human caCRC in several aspects of its molecular pathogenesis, specifically in both increased PCNA and β-catenin expression and nuclear translocation of the latter. Wild-type p53 is a rapidly degraded protein with a short half-life and a low cellular level [19] . The accumulation of p53 in model group and translocation to nuclear are also features of caCRC for early loss of function of p53 [10] . SBS not only increased the survival rate of mice, reduced the incidence and multiplicity of colonic neoplasms, but also downregulated the expression of caCRC markers, such as PCNA, β-catenin and p53, suggested that SBS was highly efficacious in ameliorating caCRC [16] .

Wild-type p53 is a rapidly degraded protein with a short half-life and a low cellular level.

The accumulation of p53 in model group and translocation to nuclear are also features of caCRC for early loss of function of p53.

SBS not only increased the survival rate of mice, reduced the incidence and multiplicity of colonic neoplasms, but also downregulated the expression of caCRC markers, such as PCNA, β-catenin and p53, suggested that SBS was highly efficacious in ameliorating caCRC.


A related central argument is developed. We argue that the results of the study show that in participatory visioning exercises diverse institutionally-related and culturally-grounded framings of the complex social issues are voiced which are informed and shaped by contextual assumptions and already circulating understandings (e.g., about urban planning and city futures). These framings influence consideration of alternative solutions. Proponents of alternative framings often compete to influence the resulting visions through a complex social process that can be termed "framing contests" [8] . Surprisingly, this is also true for the relatively homogenous groups which participated in these workshops. From a practitioner perspective the paper concludes that the organisers and facilitators of visioning exercises need to be more attentive to framing contests and related social processes, along with whether the exercise seeks to open up debate or to achieve closure on a consensual agenda.

Proponents of alternative framings often compete to influence the resulting visions through a complex social process that can be termed "framing contests".


An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is defined as a spacetraversing vehicle that flies without a human crew on board and that can be remotely controlled or can fly autonomously [144] . Over the past three decades, the popularity of UAVs or UASs (unmanned aircraft systems, initiated by US Department of Defense in 2005 from the perspective of system) has kept growing at an unprecedented rate. To date, there are over 1000 UAV models being developed in over 50 countries, serving as indispensable assistant for human operators in a broad range of military and civil applications. According to a UAV market forecast conducted by the Teal Group (a leading UAS market research firm), the worldwide UAV expenditures over the next decade will increase annually from the current 5.2 billion to 11.6 billion, and the total amount in the next decade will reach to an incredible 89 billion: UAVs' future is absolutely unlimited.

An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is defined as a spacetraversing vehicle that flies without a human crew on board and that can be remotely controlled or can fly autonomously.


Nowadays, the global economy is complicated and unpredictable. The manufacturing industry is under tremendous pressure from the buyers' market, ranging from fluctuations in product demand to product diversity. Customized production has become the trend. In order to stay competitive, manufacturing companies must remain highly sensitive to the market (fluctuations) and be able to react quickly to market changes by introducing products that meet customer needs in a timely manner. As a new type of leading manufacturing systems, reconfigurable manufacturing systems (RMSs) have attracted a great amount of attention from companies [1] .

As a new type of leading manufacturing systems, reconfigurable manufacturing systems (RMSs) have attracted a great amount of attention from companies.