Care farming is often portrayed as a win-win situation for agriculture and health care [11, 12] . Within the framework of multifunctional agriculture, care farming comes forward as a 'broadening' activity that may widen farmers' income flows, contribute to (re)new(ed) agriculture-society relations, and foster rural development [13] . From a socialization-of-care perspective, care farming signifies a concrete example of an empowermentoriented practice centring on social integration [3] . Yet, despite these apparent cross-sectoral benefits, the boundaries between distinct social worlds like those of agriculture and health care can be difficult to bridge in European practice [1, 12] .

Care farming is often portrayed as a win-win situation for agriculture and health care.

Within the framework of multifunctional agriculture, care farming comes forward as a 'broadening' activity that may widen farmers' income flows, contribute to (re)new(ed) agriculture-society relations, and foster rural development.

From a socialization-of-care perspective, care farming signifies a concrete example of an empowermentoriented practice centring on social integration.

Yet, despite these apparent cross-sectoral benefits, the boundaries between distinct social worlds like those of agriculture and health care can be difficult to bridge in European practice.


Unless these discursive differences are addressed and overcome, we may not expect to see fundamental institutional and practical innovations in Flanders that are based on a collaborative effort of agricultural and health care agents. Addressing these discursive differences requires a cross-sectoral dialogue in which conflictive discourses are made the explicit topic of deliberation, and may possibly be amended in mutual interaction [18] . Identifying the discourses through which agents give meaning to care farming is a first essential step to make such a dialogue possible, with which this paper has made a start.

Addressing these discursive differences requires a cross-sectoral dialogue in which conflictive discourses are made the explicit topic of deliberation, and may possibly be amended in mutual interaction.


Soil nematodes occupy multiple trophic levels in soils and serve as important and sensitive indicators of soil health (Yeates, 2003) . Additionally, plant-parasitic nematodes often dominate soil communities in grasslands and may limit crop production (Yeates & Bongers, 1999) . The lower abundance of plant-parasitic nematodes (PPN) and lower Plant-Parasitic Index associated with switchgrass was somewhat unexpected, as switchgrass produces twice the amount of fine roots as miscanthus in this system (Sprunger, 2015) . The increased AMF root colonization of switchgrass may explain this reduction in PPN, as AMF are known to decrease PPN through a variety of mechanisms, including induced systemic resistance, direct competition, enhanced tolerance, and altered rhizosphere interactions (Schouteden et al., 2015) . Additionally, the AMF groups most closely associated with both crops are known to be particularly efficient at protecting plant hosts from root pathogens (Chagnon et al., 2013) . It may also be that switchgrass is less susceptible to PPN than miscanthus due to differences in root exudates or root architecture, though very little is known about host suitability or damage thresholds for these species in field conditions (Mekete et al., 2011) .

Soil nematodes occupy multiple trophic levels in soils and serve as important and sensitive indicators of soil health.

Additionally, plant-parasitic nematodes often dominate soil communities in grasslands and may limit crop production.

The lower abundance of plant-parasitic nematodes (PPN) and lower Plant-Parasitic Index associated with switchgrass was somewhat unexpected, as switchgrass produces twice the amount of fine roots as miscanthus in this system.

The increased AMF root colonization of switchgrass may explain this reduction in PPN, as AMF are known to decrease PPN through a variety of mechanisms, including induced systemic resistance, direct competition, enhanced tolerance, and altered rhizosphere interactions.

Additionally, the AMF groups most closely associated with both crops are known to be particularly efficient at protecting plant hosts from root pathogens.

It may also be that switchgrass is less susceptible to PPN than miscanthus due to differences in root exudates or root architecture, though very little is known about host suitability or damage thresholds for these species in field conditions.


Production of potato seed through aeroponics will promote seed availability of health potato seed. In addition, aeroponics allows easy identification and roguing of diseased plants. Furthermore, potato seed produced through this method could enjoy accelerated growth due to improved aeration of the roots and optimal nutrient uptake obtained from an atomized nutrient solution (Barak et al., 1996; Nichols, 2005) . The objective of this study was to evaluate performance of selected potato clones derived from tissue culture and apical stem cuttings grown under aeroponics in order to establish their potential as a source of seed potato.

Furthermore, potato seed produced through this method could enjoy accelerated growth due to improved aeration of the roots and optimal nutrient uptake obtained from an atomized nutrient solution.


Currently, the common method for propagation of commercially important potato cultivars is through tubers. However, this propagation method has encouraged accumulation of tissue borne viruses, fungi and bacteria in subsequent seasons. This has lead to significant losses in yield and tuber quality over seasons (Nyende et al., 2005) . Rooted apical stem cuttings are the easiest and cheapest means of propagating potato (Struik and Wiersema, 1999) . They have faster regeneration potential and are true to type. Their ability to regenerate rapidly gives them great potential for conservation of potato clones and production of potato seed. If rooted apical stem cuttings originate from true to type and pathogenfree tubers, they serve as an efficient means of producing basic seed under strict management practices, such as aeroponics (Novak et al., 1980; Naik and Karihaloo, 2007) . Leaf and stem cuttings are highly appealing for fresh potato production due to their ability to escape soil-borne pathogens and the tendency of plantlets to produce few but large sized tubers (Struik and Wiersema, 1999) . However, to supply healthy mother plants on a continuous basis using leaf and stem cuttings remain a challenge. Tissue culture is used to mass propagate clonal materials in disease-free environments without the limitations of field propagation techniques of clonal planting material. In vitro plantlets are deemed to yield more under hydroponics and aeroponics but a wider use of tissue culture materials may be difficult if farmers are not familiar with growing techniques or if environmental conditions are not favourable for plant growth (Barak et al., 1996; Marissa et al., 2004) .

This has lead to significant losses in yield and tuber quality over seasons.

Rooted apical stem cuttings are the easiest and cheapest means of propagating potato.

If rooted apical stem cuttings originate from true to type and pathogenfree tubers, they serve as an efficient means of producing basic seed under strict management practices, such as aeroponics.

Leaf and stem cuttings are highly appealing for fresh potato production due to their ability to escape soil-borne pathogens and the tendency of plantlets to produce few but large sized tubers.

In vitro plantlets are deemed to yield more under hydroponics and aeroponics but a wider use of tissue culture materials may be difficult if farmers are not familiar with growing techniques or if environmental conditions are not favourable for plant growth.


The growing amount of plastic and tyre rubber waste is generating more and more environmental problems worldwide. The present rate of economic growth is unimaginable without saving of fossil energy like crude oil, natural gas or coal. Suitable waste management is another important aspect of sustainable development. Plastic and rubber wastes represent a considerable part of municipal wastes, furthermore huge amounts of waste arise as a by-product or faulty product in industry and agriculture [1] [2] [3] .

Plastic and rubber wastes represent a considerable part of municipal wastes, furthermore huge amounts of waste arise as a by-product or faulty product in industry and agriculture.


Nowadays there are three ways to utilize plastic and tyre rubber waste: landfilling, incineration with or without energy recovery and recycling. The largest amount of wastes is disposed of by landfilling (40%), recycling is about 39%, and incineration with energy recovery is only 20%. Energy recovery from waste substances is referred to today as the processes WtE (Waste to Energy) [4] [5] [6] .

Energy recovery from waste substances is referred to today as the processes WtE (Waste to Energy).


It has been shown that compounds which bind this N-terminal domain and inhibit assembly of CA into the mature capsid also inhibit viral infectivity [13] . An intimate knowledge of the details of the subunit contacts will be useful in designing and optimizing assembly inhibitors that target this essential binding interaction. Such inhibitors may provide another avenue for treatment of HIV-infected individuals. While a crystal structure of the isolated Nterminal domain of CA from HIV-1 has recently been determined, neither a hexameric or pentameric assembly, or other relevant interfaces were observed [14] . We have therefore continued to search for a different crystal form which will provide a high-resolution view of these intersubunit interactions within the mature hexamer. As a result, we have identified a new crystal form of this domain which diffracts x-rays to high resolution, and is amenable to structural study.

It has been shown that compounds which bind this N-terminal domain and inhibit assembly of CA into the mature capsid also inhibit viral infectivity.

While a crystal structure of the isolated Nterminal domain of CA from HIV-1 has recently been determined, neither a hexameric or pentameric assembly, or other relevant interfaces were observed.


Dislocations restructuring is the main mechanism that drives creep deformation in modified 9Cr-1Mo steel. Dislocation restructuring results from dislocation and dipole generation and annihilation, as well as dislocation glide and climb. The macroscopic effect of these microstructural changes is the resulting creep strain. In addition to deformation related to changes in dislocation density, other degradation phenomena leading to creep in modified 9Cr-1Mo steel include microstructural changes involving solid solutions, precipitates, grain boundaries and subgrains. For example, the depletion of Mo atoms from the subgrain matrix under long term thermo-mechanical loading decreases the creep resistance of the steel. Moreover, coarsening of M23C6 and MX precipitates increases the spacing between the precipitates, leading to enhanced dislocation mobility. Consequently, dislocations require less energy to climb over precipitates. Void/crack nucleation and growth are some of the most important damage mechanisms in 9Cr-1Mo steel. Cavities usually nucleate at triple junctions or at the particles located on grain boundaries. Grain deformation and cavity coalescence are the main crack formation mechanism in 9Cr-1Mo [3, [11] [12] [13] .

Grain deformation and cavity coalescence are the main crack formation mechanism in 9Cr-1Mo.


The paper is organized as follows. In section 2 we formulate the relativistic drift Hamiltonian and derive the equations of motion for the guiding-centres in external electromagnetic (EM) fields. In section 3 we outline the construction of a 4-dimensional mapping procedure for the guiding-centre drift Hamiltonian. For quantitative predictions, we use the TEXTOR-DED magnetic field configuration [57] . The 4-dimensional mapping reduces to a 2-dimensional description for static magnetic field perturbations. In the latter case, in section 4, we explicitly investigate the changes in the drift surfaces with increasing kinetic energy for runaway electrons. Including magnetic perturbations, the changes in the Poincaré sections with increasing kinetic energy are discussed. Furthermore, the dependence of the runaway escape rates on the kinetic energy and on the perturbation current is investigated. The theoretical results are compared with recent measurements at TEXTOR. The paper is concluded by a short discussion and outlook. Appendix A shows the different behaviour of co-passing electrons in stochastic fields. The non-relativistic limit is obtained in appendix B.

The paper is organized as follows.

For quantitative predictions, we use the TEXTOR-DED magnetic field configuration.


In 1987, Yablonovitch introduced the analogy between propagation of photons in dielectric mediums and propagation of electrons in semiconductors [1] . This ultimately gave birth to photonic band-gap materials and photonic crystal fibers, where a periodic variation in the RI is introduced, and the band-gap is formed for a certain range of photon energies [2] . Such band-gap materials are now of great interest owing to their multifarious potential applications in photonics [3] [4] [5] [6] .

In 1987, Yablonovitch introduced the analogy between propagation of photons in dielectric mediums and propagation of electrons in semiconductors.

This ultimately gave birth to photonic band-gap materials and photonic crystal fibers, where a periodic variation in the RI is introduced, and the band-gap is formed for a certain range of photon energies.

Such band-gap materials are now of great interest owing to their multifarious potential applications in photonics.


Many authentication protocols have been proposed to enhance the robustness of a RFID system. Some of them were developed based on cipher algorithms such as Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) or Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) [4] , [5] , [6] , [7] . Some utilised the hash-based algorithm, pseudo random number generator, Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) function and/or some ExOR and rotation operations [8] , [9] , [10] , [11] , [12] . Normally, cipherbased approaches are not preferred for passive tag because of its high computational cost and the large hardware area. However, with the advances in technology, it is feasible to embed the cipher engine on the passive tags but still guarantee the low tag's cost [5] .

Some of them were developed based on cipher algorithms such as Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) or Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC).

Some utilised the hash-based algorithm, pseudo random number generator, Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) function and/or some ExOR and rotation operations.

However, with the advances in technology, it is feasible to embed the cipher engine on the passive tags but still guarantee the low tag's cost.


The path we take in order to prove this was described by Ye [21, 22] . We introduce MPEC variants of calmness and a local error bound, and show M-stationarity to be a necessary first order condition under these constraint qualifications. Then we proceed to show that a mathematical program with affine equilibrium constraints (see (43)) satisfies these, finally using [22, Theorem 3.1] which proves our result.

The path we take in order to prove this was described by Ye.


Herein we present the phenotypic and molecular-genetic characterisation of autosomal recessive epidermolysis bullosa in Vorderwald cattle. We exploit wholegenome genotyping and sequencing data to identify the causal mutation for the skin disease in the COL7A1 gene. We show that a haplotype encompassing the deleterious allele, unexpectedly, also segregates in Rotes Höhenvieh cattle. Although the calves were able to stand properly, they were reluctant to move likely due to painful lesions at the fetlocks. Cartilage deformities, hairless and bloody sites were observed at the calves' ears ( Figure 1b ). Based on the phenotypical appearance of the calves, the tentative diagnosis of epidermolysis bullosa (EB) was made. Since pathological and histological data were not available, a more precise classification of the disease was not possible [25] . All calves were euthanized shortly after birth by accredited veterinarians because of poor prognosis and with no prospect of improvement [17] . Breeding consultants collected ear tissue samples for genetic analyses from two affected calves.

Since pathological and histological data were not available, a more precise classification of the disease was not possible.

All calves were euthanized shortly after birth by accredited veterinarians because of poor prognosis and with no prospect of improvement.


Vorderwald cattle are mainly kept in the southwestern part of Germany. The breeding population consists of less than 10,000 cows of which 50% are artificially inseminated [1] . In spite of the small number of breeding animals, the effective population size (N e ) of Vorderwald cattle is relatively high (N e =130) [1] . Extensive cross-breeding of Vorderwald cows with sires from the Ayrshire, Red Holstein and Montbéliarde breeds was performed in the past 50 years to improve milk, beef and conformation traits [2, 3, 4] . The contributions of foreign ancestors to the genomic composition of the current Vorderwald cattle population are in excess of 60% [3] .

The breeding population consists of less than 10,000 cows of which 50% are artificially inseminated.

In spite of the small number of breeding animals, the effective population size (N e ) of Vorderwald cattle is relatively high (N e =130).

Extensive cross-breeding of Vorderwald cows with sires from the Ayrshire, Red Holstein and Montbéliarde breeds was performed in the past 50 years to improve milk, beef and conformation traits.

The contributions of foreign ancestors to the genomic composition of the current Vorderwald cattle population are in excess of 60%.


Cervical carcinoma is the second most common cancer in women worldwide [1] . This malignant neoplasm develops from basal cells originating in the uterine cervix, and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common presentation of cervical cancer, accounting for approximately 80-85% of all cases [1] . Chronic infection with human papilloma virus (HPV), especially the high-risk variants HPV16 and 18, is the single most important etiologic factor in the pathogenesis of cervical carcinoma and its precursors [1, 2] . Multiple risk factors, such as sexual activity at an early age, high parity, smoking, and use of oral contraceptives, are associated with cervical carcinoma. An emerging body of evidence suggests that poor nutritional status is also a risk factor for the malignant transformation of cervical cells [3] . Additionally, improvement in nutrition status may play a role in the prevention and reversal of cervical dysplasia [4] . Reversal of mild and moderate cervical dysplasia has been demonstrated in patients receiving vitamin A supplementation over a few month period [5] . Furthermore, a number of clinical studies have shown that topical application of a vitamin A derivative to the cervix completely reverses cervical dysplasia in 50% of cases [6] .

Cervical carcinoma is the second most common cancer in women worldwide.

This malignant neoplasm develops from basal cells originating in the uterine cervix, and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common presentation of cervical cancer, accounting for approximately 80-85% of all cases.

Chronic infection with human papilloma virus (HPV), especially the high-risk variants HPV16 and 18, is the single most important etiologic factor in the pathogenesis of cervical carcinoma and its precursors.

An emerging body of evidence suggests that poor nutritional status is also a risk factor for the malignant transformation of cervical cells.

Additionally, improvement in nutrition status may play a role in the prevention and reversal of cervical dysplasia.

Reversal of mild and moderate cervical dysplasia has been demonstrated in patients receiving vitamin A supplementation over a few month period.

Furthermore, a number of clinical studies have shown that topical application of a vitamin A derivative to the cervix completely reverses cervical dysplasia in 50% of cases.


There are multiple processes that can be undertaken to fabricate µPADs, each of which has various advantages and disadvantages. Photolithography was introduced by Whitesides in a glucose assay and a myriad of µPAD fabrication methods have been created since then [12] . The channels are highly reliable, although photolithographic techniques frequently require a master mold from which to make castings [13] .

Photolithography was introduced by Whitesides in a glucose assay and a myriad of µPAD fabrication methods have been created since then.

The channels are highly reliable, although photolithographic techniques frequently require a master mold from which to make castings.


Since the original publication nearly 25 years ago documenting the first microelectromechanical (MEM) device, microfluidic technologies have proliferated into nearly all sectors of the chemical, biological medicinal, and agricultural industries. Early devices were comprised of glass or polymeric materials including poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It became apparent that these initial lab-on-chip (LOC) devices could be of particular value in the point-of-care (POC) diagnostic arena due to their performance characteristics (specificity, sensitivity, and high accuracy). Correspondingly, these devices were time-consuming to fabricate due to their complexity, difficulty in reproduction, and sometimes high cost to manufacture [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] .

Correspondingly, these devices were time-consuming to fabricate due to their complexity, difficulty in reproduction, and sometimes high cost to manufacture.


Wax printing is a more advantageous process that allows for more intricate patterning and reproducibility in the fabrication of µPADs [17] . It requires the use of a wax printer where wax is stored in "ink" cartridges. The wax is heated within the printer and drops onto the paper through an internal printer mechanism. The heated wax cools on contact with the paper in a precise and reproducible pattern created earlier by a computer drawing program. This removes the need to pattern the designs by hand or the use of a template, and contributes to the increased rate of fabrication. With this method of µPAD fabrication, there are two factors that should be considered when designing, printing and fabricating: time and temperature of heating. The inherent nature of wax and how it interacts with paper requires consideration when designing a µPAD. Upon heating, wax spreads laterally (x-and y-direction) as well as permeates (z-direction) through the paper. Hence, the original computer designed graphics detailing where printing (wax was to be placed) was to occur is modified. Even miniscule changes in chip dimensions can have profound effects in fluid flow, potentially deeming the µPAD unusable. Incomplete melting of wax could lead to leaking of sample outside the confines of the µPAD, as the wax might not have permeated the surface of the paper enough to form the hydrophobic barriers. In a similar fashion, overheating a wax chip with intricately designed channels could lead to blocked channels, as the wax barriers might spread more than desired.

Wax printing is a more advantageous process that allows for more intricate patterning and reproducibility in the fabrication of µPADs.


The initial temperature of each ROI was related to psychosocial scales. Finger temperature was inversely connected with behavioral interference and intensity of pain, as well as social isolation. This is consistent with a sympathetic domain of the activity [50] .

This is consistent with a sympathetic domain of the activity.


To increase the reliability of the communication system, two approaches have been identified [3] . The first approach is through the 'noise budgeting' approach which applies the worst case analysis leading to increase of the noise margin in order to mitigate the noise. This approach results in high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at the expense of high power dissipation [2] . The analysis is rather a pessimistic analysis, to consider all noise sources to happen simultaneously at the worst possible extreme value which is misleading in real design.

To increase the reliability of the communication system, two approaches have been identified.

This approach results in high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at the expense of high power dissipation.


From the communication point of view, the signals of onchip interconnect flow from the drivers, through the channel (interconnect wires) to the receivers. From literature, different DSM noise sources have been identified affecting each of these components of the interconnect communication system [2] . These noise sources can result in functional as well as timing errors.

From literature, different DSM noise sources have been identified affecting each of these components of the interconnect communication system.


GMA-containing copolymers are the most efficient species as compatibilizer [11] . There are three main chemical aspect reasons for that statement. First, epoxy functionality of GMA is able to react with both hydroxyl and carbonyl end groups of PET, as depicted in Figure 1 , whereas MA reacts only with hydroxyl ends. Second, epoxy function of GMA has higher reactivity than MA towards hydroxyl groups of PET. Lastly, the esterification reaction is reversible at high temperatures [11] [13] . The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of rHDPE-rich blend composition and compatibilizer loading levels on the mechanical properties and morphology stability of resultant blends.

GMA-containing copolymers are the most efficient species as compatibilizer.

Lastly, the esterification reaction is reversible at high temperatures.


High density polyethylene (HDPE) and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) are extensively used in packaging of consumers and industry products and constitute a significant fraction of post-consumer waste [4] . Consequently, both HDPE and PET bottles represent a promising recycling opportunity since there is a great interest in finding new possibilities for the use of post-consumer plastics as new products [5] . Mechanical recycling that involves blending of plastics is one of the attractive recycling method to obtain new materials with superior mechanical properties of blends due to the ease of fabrication, highly convenient and economical advantage reasons [4] - [6] .

High density polyethylene (HDPE) and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) are extensively used in packaging of consumers and industry products and constitute a significant fraction of post-consumer waste.

Consequently, both HDPE and PET bottles represent a promising recycling opportunity since there is a great interest in finding new possibilities for the use of post-consumer plastics as new products.

Mechanical recycling that involves blending of plastics is one of the attractive recycling method to obtain new materials with superior mechanical properties of blends due to the ease of fabrication, highly convenient and economical advantage reasons.


These probabilistic graphical models offer a coherent and intuitive representation of uncertain domain knowledge. One of the main advantages of BN over other AI schemes for reasoning under uncertainty is that they readily combine expert judgment with knowledge extracted from the data within the probabilistic framework. In this paper, we discuss efforts to apply a new BN learning method to a real world epidemiological problem, namely the Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC) [1] . The objective is to investigate the role of various environmental factors in the aetiology of NPC in the Maghrebian population.

In this paper, we discuss efforts to apply a new BN learning method to a real world epidemiological problem, namely the Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC).


Our main objective is to find a network which is suitable for interconnecting a large number of nodes while maintaining good dynamic communication performance. It has already been shown that a torus network has better dynamic communication performance than a mesh network [1] . To fulfill our objective, with this key motivation, we have replaced the 2D-mesh of a TESH network by a 2D-torus network. That is, we made a hierarchical network as torus-torus combination. The modified TESH network consists of BMs which are themselves 2D-tori, hierarchically interconnected by 2D-torus networks. Analogous to the TESH network, we called it Tori-connected Torus Network (TTN). TTN is a hierarchical interconnection network, thus allowing exploitation of computation locality, as well as providing sacalability up to a million of nodes.

It has already been shown that a torus network has better dynamic communication performance than a mesh network.


Studies have focused on mesoscale circulation and large-scale dynamics using ground observation, radar image, reanalysis and forecasting model [6, 7, 10] . Nevertheless, two perspectives have not been adequately studied yet: one is possible urban contributions to this rainfall event and another is the use of satellite remote sensing. The former addresses dynamics and microphysical processes of rainfall and the latter is a new approach providing independent and high coverage measurements related to aerosol-cloud-rainfall interactions.

Studies have focused on mesoscale circulation and large-scale dynamics using ground observation, radar image, reanalysis and forecasting model.


The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) is a joint program between USA and Japan to monitor precipitation system. Rainfall amount and rainfall frequency are collected from 1998 to present at 3 hours interval each day. The spatial coverage of TRMM is 39°N-39°S. Nevertheless, the Multi-satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) blends data from other satellites to extend latitudinal coverage and spatio-temporal resolution [20] . This study uses 3 hourly, 0.25 degree TMPA rainfall data. Together with MODIS, TRMM provides a unique research opportunity to assess this 721 extreme rainfall event.

The spatial coverage of TRMM is 39°N-39°S. Nevertheless, the Multi-satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) blends data from other satellites to extend latitudinal coverage and spatio-temporal resolution.


On 21 July 21 2012, Beijing, the capital of China was damaged by disastrous flooding from the heaviest rainfall the last 61 years . The death toll was 77 people and economic damage was over 10 billion US dollars. Rainfall extremes, in particular, over big cities severely threaten human life. In a warming climate, such extreme events are expected to occur more frequently [1] . In order to understand, predict, and protect from such extreme events in the future, research on the mechanisms using as many as measurements and approaches is essential.

In a warming climate, such extreme events are expected to occur more frequently.


Performing string dualities in lower spacetime dimensions, one often encounters branes of codimension two or less. They are called exotic branes [5, 6] . Nowadays, in particular, branes of codimension two are called defect branes [7] . They are exotic because of two reasons in the supergravity framework (see appendix B): (1) the IR divergence in their background configurations, and (2) non-trivial monodromy structures originated from string duality. We expect that such exotic features would reveal aspects of quantum gravity in string theory.

They are called exotic branes.

Nowadays, in particular, branes of codimension two are called defect branes.


Moreover, the FDG uptake in infectious foci will almost certainly be affected by serum glucose levels (and also by serum insulin levels, although these were not measured in this study) and the underlying disease such as diabetes mellitus. It has been reported that both hyperglycemia and insulin-induced hypoglycemia (in previously euglycemic animals) substantially reduced FDG uptake in tumor, but conversely, relatively preserved (in hyperglycemia) or substantially increased (in insulin-induced hypoglycemia) FDG uptake in muscle and fat tissues, and as a result, tumor/muscle and tumor/fat ratios of FDG uptake significantly decreased in both conditions [30, 31] . We expect that plasma glucose and/or insulin concentration may affect the FDG uptake in sites of infection, as reported in tumors. Thus, the FDG-PET method potentially may be of lower utility in diabetics. This may, if confirmed, represent a major limitation of the method, as diabetics are often affected with infections.

It has been reported that both hyperglycemia and insulin-induced hypoglycemia (in previously euglycemic animals) substantially reduced FDG uptake in tumor, but conversely, relatively preserved (in hyperglycemia) or substantially increased (in insulin-induced hypoglycemia) FDG uptake in muscle and fat tissues, and as a result, tumor/muscle and tumor/fat ratios of FDG uptake significantly decreased in both conditions.


This interaction between environment cell volume showed that for the tray of 128 cells, there were less vigorous seedlings in a nursery with Sombrite®, where the very structure of the shade mesh, which allowed the entry of rainwater, may have adduced the nutrients from the lower volume of substrate and influenced in seedling development (Table 3 ). This fact was not verified for the tray of 72 cells, because in this container seedlings showed better development in the nursery. Even being in the same condition of environment of cultivation of the trays of 128 cells, the largest cell volume of the tray of 72 cells allowed carrying less nutrients and better development of the seedlings (COSTA et al., 2011) . In interactions between substrates and environments, as well as the interactions between substrates and containers, it was observed that the seedlings grown in vermiculite had higher quality standards, and in coconut fiber had the lowest (Table 4 ). The physical characteristics of vermiculite, such as porosity and moisture absorption, favored the development of beetroot roots and increased robustness (DQI), producing high quality seedlings. In researches, with the formation of sweet pepper and lettuce seedlings, it was observed with plants with high vigor when grown in vermiculite (OLIVEIRA et al., 2008) .

Even being in the same condition of environment of cultivation of the trays of 128 cells, the largest cell volume of the tray of 72 cells allowed carrying less nutrients and better development of the seedlings.

In researches, with the formation of sweet pepper and lettuce seedlings, it was observed with plants with high vigor when grown in vermiculite.


Some recent developments have reported oxide nanocrystallite aggregates for an application in DSCs [2, 10, [48] [49] [50] [51] [52] . It was demonstrated that the use of oxide nanocrystallite aggregates might provide the photoelectrode with a large specific surface area and meanwhile efficient light-scattering centers. This has resulted in very impressive enhancements in the overall conversion efficiency for either ZnO or TiO 2 -based DSCs. This review introduces the synthesis and characterization of ZnO and TiO 2 aggregates, and shows that the light scattering effect with these aggregates may significantly enhance the LHE of photoelectrode and thus improve the conversion efficiency of solar cells.

Some recent developments have reported oxide nanocrystallite aggregates for an application in DSCs.


One way to improve the LHE of a photoelectrode is a use of new sensitizers with increased absorption coefficients and/or extended long-wavelength absorption edges. Such an approach has led to significant improvements in the conversion efficiency of DSCs. For example, overall conversion efficiencies of 11.0-11.3% have been recently obtained during the preliminary testing of a nanocrystalline TiO 2 film sensitized with C101, a new type of dye [21] . This dye consists of a heteroleptic polypyridyl ruthenium complex, in which the ʌ-conjugation of the spectator ligands is extended and thus, the molecules present a higher molar extinction coefficient (17.5×10 3 M -1 cm -1 ) when compared to commercial dyes such as N719 (14.2×10 3 M -1 cm -1 ) and Z907 (12.2×10 3 M -1 cm -1 ). Other structured ruthenium complexes such as K8 and K9 also show a broad and greatly enhanced spectral response. This response enables a nanocrystalline film with only an 8 μm thickness to reach an overall conversion efficiency as high as 8.2% due to a significant improvement in the LHE [22] . A similar result was also reported using the organic sensitizers JK-1 and JK-2, where an ~8% conversion efficiency on TiO 2 nanocrystalline films was achieved [23] .

For example, overall conversion efficiencies of 11.0-11.3% have been recently obtained during the preliminary testing of a nanocrystalline TiO 2 film sensitized with C101, a new type of dye.

This response enables a nanocrystalline film with only an 8 μm thickness to reach an overall conversion efficiency as high as 8.2% due to a significant improvement in the LHE.

A similar result was also reported using the organic sensitizers JK-1 and JK-2, where an ~8% conversion efficiency on TiO 2 nanocrystalline films was achieved.


Given the strong effect of therapeutic hypothermia with a protocol chosen on the basis of experimental data, there might be potential to further optimize the treatment and gain an even better neurologic outcome for patients after a global cerebral ischemic event [20, 23] . At present, hypothermia is initiated mainly inhospital and for arrests with cardiac etiology and a typical clinical presentation. However, there are no data to support whether earlier and faster cooling, already initiated in the out-of-hospital phase, may be better for preserving neurologic function [24] [25] [26] . Further studies should attempt to determine the time point at which the initiation of therapeutic hypothermia becomes most beneficial to patients who achieve restoration of spontaneous circulation following cardiac arrest [7, 23] . Additional research is required to explore the best methods for induction of therapeutic hypothermia, including the most appropriate time and location of therapeutic hypothermia initiation and the optimal means to induce temperature reduction.

Given the strong effect of therapeutic hypothermia with a protocol chosen on the basis of experimental data, there might be potential to further optimize the treatment and gain an even better neurologic outcome for patients after a global cerebral ischemic event.

However, there are no data to support whether earlier and faster cooling, already initiated in the out-of-hospital phase, may be better for preserving neurologic function.

Further studies should attempt to determine the time point at which the initiation of therapeutic hypothermia becomes most beneficial to patients who achieve restoration of spontaneous circulation following cardiac arrest.


Although human sight is useful even in the presence of lighting differences, color determination is variable from observer to observer and makes standardization difficult (León et al., 2006) . Color is one of the most important visual physical parameters of fresh fruit and can be evaluated automatically using several computer vision systems (Pathare et al., 2013) . This study investigated the storage potential of Swingle citrumelo seeds extracted from fruits at different ripening stages as identified by a RGB color system. Previous research in minimally processed tomato fruits showed that individual R, G and B color components were significantly different for three fruit ripening stages and their visual differences could be expressed by variations in RGB values (Lana et al., 2006) . In this study, visual differences between GY and Y fruits were not detected, which probably lim-ited fruit separation by individual G and B color components. However, the higher pixel values for the R color component in Y fruits compared with GY fruits indicate that this color spectrum is a valuable parameter for automated classification. Conversely, similar pixel intensities between treatments using B color component indicate that this color spectrum may not be an efficient marker to consistently identify fruit ripening stages.

Although human sight is useful even in the presence of lighting differences, color determination is variable from observer to observer and makes standardization difficult.

Color is one of the most important visual physical parameters of fresh fruit and can be evaluated automatically using several computer vision systems.

Previous research in minimally processed tomato fruits showed that individual R, G and B color components were significantly different for three fruit ripening stages and their visual differences could be expressed by variations in RGB values.


Inverse scattering problems are concerned with determining the property of the medium by sending an incident wave and measuring the scattered field. These problems arise in a diverse range of applications, including radar, medical imaging, geophysical exploration, and non-destructive testing [12] . In this paper, we consider the problem of reconstructing the shape of an interior cavity by sending and receiving waves from inside. The cavity is represented by a simply connected domain in R 2 , and its exterior is assumed to be impenetrable. A time harmonic incident field is generated by a point source placed inside the cavity. Given the incident field, the direct problem is to determine the total field from the known cavity. We are mainly interested in the inverse problem, which is to reconstruct the shape of the cavity from the noisy data of the total field.

These problems arise in a diverse range of applications, including radar, medical imaging, geophysical exploration, and non-destructive testing.


The infl uence of leaf cardinal point location on the distribution of OLS disease has been well documented. In the region of Setif, Algeria, OLS infection was reported to be more severe on north facing leaves as a result of their prolonged surface moisture retention and lower temperature (Guechi & Girre 1994) . In New Zealand, OLS disease was found to be more abundant on south facing leaves, in trees with large dense canopies and in some cultivars, although all cultivars were affected (MacDonald et al. 2000) .

In the region of Setif, Algeria, OLS infection was reported to be more severe on north facing leaves as a result of their prolonged surface moisture retention and lower temperature.

In New Zealand, OLS disease was found to be more abundant on south facing leaves, in trees with large dense canopies and in some cultivars, although all cultivars were affected.


It has been demonstrated that it is possible to prepare double-anchored silicon nanowires, where nanowires and their supports were etched from the same silicon crystal. This eliminated any interface compliance, which would hinder the accuracy of nanomechanical characterization results. Nanowire cross sections had trapezoidal or pentagonal shapes. The maximum nanowire width utilized in this study was 74 nm, whereas a minimum of 35 nm could be achieved. Three-point bending tests were conducted on the nanowires within the FIB/SEM chamber via a force sensor probe. The measured force-displacement curves yielded good correlation in comparison to simulated force-displacement curves with the modulus of elasticity taken as the bulk ⟨110⟩ value of 169 GPa [21] . Thus this simple force measurement tool represents a cost-saving alternative to common techniques. The method is applicable to even smaller objects, if available. Good compliance with already published AFM data proves the reliability of the method. Small deviations between successive tests can be explained by uncertainties of tip positioning and, specifically in the case of smaller nanowires, twisting of the nanowire. A further slight systematic deviation observed for the smallest nanowire was attributed to the influence of the very small native oxide layer. The important impact of geometry was investigated comprehensively, both experimentally (TEM of cross sections) and numerically. No size effect on the elastic behavior of silicon was found within the considered size range.

The measured force-displacement curves yielded good correlation in comparison to simulated force-displacement curves with the modulus of elasticity taken as the bulk ⟨110⟩ value of 169 GPa.


To evaluate the experimental results further, finite element model (FEM) simulations were carried out. Nanowires were modeled as double-anchored beams. Nanowire dimensions were extracted from Figures 1(a), 1(b), and 1(c) . A linear-elastic material model was utilized with the material constants of single-crystalline silicon along with geometric nonlinearity. A distributed load in the form of uniform pressure was applied over a surface boundary defined on the top surface at the nanowire midspan. The extent of this contact area was determined in accordance with the experimental observations. A commercial finite element software was utilized for modeling of 19 × 10 3 tetrahedral and 6 × 10 3 triangular elements with about 95 × 10 3 degrees of freedom. The maximum mesh density was imposed at the contact surface. As experiments involved large displacements, the model was validated first with a closed-form solution available in the literature [17] . Following model validation, a parametric study was carried out within the experimental force range. For each applied force value nanowire displacement at the midspan was recorded.

As experiments involved large displacements, the model was validated first with a closed-form solution available in the literature.


In recent years, an increasing number of studies have explored the use of virtual worlds (VWs) for language learning. These environments are characterised by their high graphic realism and communication capabilities, usually integrating chat and voice options. In addition, users are represented by avatars, therefore affording a degree of anonymity that has been said to decrease the anxiety generated by the environment (Dickey, 2005; Warschauer, 1997) . VWs make it possible for geographically dispersed users to communicate with each other, allowing for telecollaboration activities to take place between students from different countries.

In addition, users are represented by avatars, therefore affording a degree of anonymity that has been said to decrease the anxiety generated by the environment.


Learning a foreign language (FL) can be a very exposing task-when we make mistakes, when we cannot understand something or when we fail to make ourselves understoodespecially so in oral communication. The affective component plays an important part in the process and Foreign Language Anxiety (FLA) has been described as a very common phenomenon amongst language learners (Horwitz, Horwitz & Cope, 1986) . In fact, speaking has been found by researchers to be one of the most anxiety-provoking language activities (Young, 1999) . In the classroom environment, there are other factors that may aggravate FLA, such as peer competition or the fear of making mistakes in front of fellow students.

The affective component plays an important part in the process and Foreign Language Anxiety (FLA) has been described as a very common phenomenon amongst language learners.

In fact, speaking has been found by researchers to be one of the most anxiety-provoking language activities.


The process of drilling oil and gas wells is associated with appearance large vibration of a drilling tool. The presence of these vibrations reduces technical and economic parameters of the drilling, adversely affect on operation of elements of the drill string, bits, downhole motors and the surface equipment, and also worsens the working conditions of drilling crews [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] . When drilling with intense vibration conditions, the endurance of cone bits and diamond crowns reduces, the useful power of downhole motors is lost, the specific energy consumption increases, the percentage of core removal decreases, and the accidence increases. During drilling at shallow depth, it is possible usually visually to observe vibration of the driving pipe. With increasing depth of the well, the drill string can collapse without visible manifestations of vibrations on the surface. Vibration load during drilling of hard rocks has a significant effect on distortion of the borehole [5] [6] [7] . Consequently, the problem of reduction harmful effects of vibration in drilling has special significance, and research ways solutions are very urgent task.

The presence of these vibrations reduces technical and economic parameters of the drilling, adversely affect on operation of elements of the drill string, bits, downhole motors and the surface equipment, and also worsens the working conditions of drilling crews.

Vibration load during drilling of hard rocks has a significant effect on distortion of the borehole.


There is a growing literature studying the asymptotic distribution of stochastic integrals. Chan and Wei [4, Lemma 2.4] derive the distribution of 490 BRUCE E. HANSEN yet published for martingale arrays are contained in Kurtz and Protter [10] . These authors consider a variety of limit theorems when V, is a semimartingale.

Chan and Wei [4, Lemma 2.4] derive the distribution of 490 BRUCE E. HANSEN yet published for martingale arrays are contained in Kurtz and Protter.


A considerable research program has developed in econometrics concerning an asymptotic distribution theory for integrated and near-integrated processes. Frequently, the theory involves sequences of cadlag' processes I U, (s), V, (s)J which converge weakly in the Skorohod topology to [ U(s), V(s)). It is often desirable to obtain the limiting distribution of the integral process fOs U, d V,. In certain cases, fJ U, d V, = f s U-d,2 but it is known that this result is typically violated when V, is not a martingale. See, for example, Phillips [16] .

See, for example, Phillips.


In situ monitoring and laboratory experiments have been used to identify the morphologies of hydrofracturing cracks [13] [14] [15] [16] [17] . Microseismic and nondestructive testing methods have been used to investigate the hydrofracturing crack morphologies [18] [19] [20] [21] [22] . The laboratory experiments show that the dip angle affects crossing behaviours between hydraulic and pre-existing fractures to form the complex fracture networks [23] . Some other techniques, that is, microseismic measurements, mine-back experiments, and surface tiltmeter, also have been effectively applied [24] [25] [26] [27] [28] . The significant effects of pre-existing fractures on hydraulic fractures were investigated [29] [30] [31] . However, the actual hydrofracturing behaviours and evolutionary process are difficult to be detected, so numerical methods have been developed as alternatives.

In situ monitoring and laboratory experiments have been used to identify the morphologies of hydrofracturing cracks.

Microseismic and nondestructive testing methods have been used to investigate the hydrofracturing crack morphologies.

The laboratory experiments show that the dip angle affects crossing behaviours between hydraulic and pre-existing fractures to form the complex fracture networks.

Some other techniques, that is, microseismic measurements, mine-back experiments, and surface tiltmeter, also have been effectively applied.

The significant effects of pre-existing fractures on hydraulic fractures were investigated.


Heat transfer is an important issue in many industrial applications. The heat transfer in the nucleate boiling regime, the latent heat of vaporization during the change from liquid to gas phase can be exploited and is the most effective way of cooling thermal systems operating at high temperatures [1] . However, the boiling heat transfer is restricted by the critical heat flux (CHF). This is highest heat flux where boiling heat transfer sustains its high cooling performance. When the surface reaches CHF, it becomes coated with a vapour film which isolates the heating surface and the fluid thus the heat transfer decreases drastically [1] [2] [3] . In these conditions, the wall temperature rises quickly, and if it exceeds the limits of its constituent materials, system failure occurs. For this reason, every system incorporates a safety margin by running at a heat flux lower than CHF, but this approach reduces system efficiency [1] . This compromise between safety and efficiency is a serious problem in the industry. For this reason, a huge work has been carried out to understand heat transfer mechanisms in nucleate boiling and CHF conditions and to increase the CHF.

The heat transfer in the nucleate boiling regime, the latent heat of vaporization during the change from liquid to gas phase can be exploited and is the most effective way of cooling thermal systems operating at high temperatures.

When the surface reaches CHF, it becomes coated with a vapour film which isolates the heating surface and the fluid thus the heat transfer decreases drastically.

For this reason, every system incorporates a safety margin by running at a heat flux lower than CHF, but this approach reduces system efficiency.


Push trawls were used to capture smaller fish (,7 cm) not effectively sampled by gill nets (Boswell et al. 2007) . Three 100-m habitat-specific transects were conducted with a 1-m 2 push trawl (1 cm mesh, 0.5 cm cod end) at approximately 2 m/s. Unlike the gill nets, which were used during each field survey, push trawls were only employed from February to May 2004. The length distributions from the push trawls were combined at each station and habitat type for comparison with the acoustic data. Samples were sorted by species, individuals were measured to SL (cm), and wet weight (g) was recorded. For catches with more than 50 individuals of the same species, subsamples of 50 randomly selected fish were measured and weighed as above. The measured fish lengths from the gill-net and push trawls were converted to TS by means of equation (2) and compared with the TS measurements obtained from the acoustic surveys.

Push trawls were used to capture smaller fish (,7 cm) not effectively sampled by gill nets.


SOFCs works on gaseous fuels mostly like H 2 and CO. As a fuel, the DCFC uses solid carbon and gives high efficiency providing the prominent advantage of high electric efficiency (>65%-70%) and produces a pure stream of CO 2 without any extra cost of energy loss [6, 10, 12, 18, 19] . Solid oxide fuel cell is based on solid electrolyte sandwiched between two electrodes. SOFC has received more and more attention in recent years due to its better efficiency and durability. The SOFC is considered very flexible among other fuel cells in terms of fuels which is a significant advantage over the other fuel cells. In the current review, the technical and commercial status of high temperature solid oxide fuel cell is discussed. Current research in SOFC is focused on identification and synthesis of innovative materials that can reduce the manufacturing cost and enhance the lifetime of SOFC. Reduced cost and bulk production of the SOFC will make it competitive with currently available conventional power technologies [12, 18, 21, [23] [24] [25] [26] [27] [28] [29] .

As a fuel, the DCFC uses solid carbon and gives high efficiency providing the prominent advantage of high electric efficiency (>65%-70%) and produces a pure stream of CO 2 without any extra cost of energy loss.

Reduced cost and bulk production of the SOFC will make it competitive with currently available conventional power technologies.


As for airborne weather radar, wind shear is a unique atmosphere phenomenon. Microburst is a main form in wind shear. Wind shear often refers to the wind speed or size changing suddenly. Wind shear especially low-level wind shear can cause the maximum damage to airplane. In the aeronautical meteorology, according to the structure of the wind field, wind shear can mainly consist of three kinds of basic situation: vertical wind shear of horizontal wind, horizontal wind shear of horizontal wind, and wind shear of vertical wind. In the actual atmosphere, these three kinds of wind shear can affect flight. According to the airplane relative to the wind vector, the wind shear can be divided into the following: wind shear, cross wind shear, partial wind shear, and head wind shear four forms [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] .

According to the airplane relative to the wind vector, the wind shear can be divided into the following: wind shear, cross wind shear, partial wind shear, and head wind shear four forms.


When people realize the serious harm of wind shear, people have invented many equipment which can detect wind field and wind shear, including ground anemometer theodolite, radiosonde wind profile, line radar laser radar, Doppler weather radar, Doppler sound radar, and airborne sensors. The malignant plane crash accident is mainly caused by wind shear [11] . Therefore, it is the most effective method for detecting low-level wind shear in time, so that the airplane has enough time and space to avoid it [12] .

The malignant plane crash accident is mainly caused by wind shear.

Therefore, it is the most effective method for detecting low-level wind shear in time, so that the airplane has enough time and space to avoid it.


The testing technology of low-level wind shear is mainly by means of signal processing algorithm, analyzing radar echo signal of wind shear [13] . The echo power, wind speed of Doppler, and spectrum width parameters can be extracted by using signal processing algorithm. The wind speed of Doppler is the most important parameter among all the parameters, because it reflects the wind field characteristics of the movement [14] [15] [16] .

The testing technology of low-level wind shear is mainly by means of signal processing algorithm, analyzing radar echo signal of wind shear.

The wind speed of Doppler is the most important parameter among all the parameters, because it reflects the wind field characteristics of the movement.


Peroxisomes are single-membrane bound organelles that are required for a wide range of essential metabolic pathways. As sites of both the production and clearance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as the biosynthesis of specific lipids (e.g. plasmalogens), peroxisomes are critical for cellular health. This is emphasised by loss-of-function mutations of key genes in peroxisomal biogenesis (PEX genes) leading to Zellweger spectrum disorders (Klouwer et al., 2015) . As peroxisomes have a role in metabolism, they are known to respond to environmental cues by altering their size, number and distribution to ensure optimal functionality (Smith and Aitchison, 2013) .

This is emphasised by loss-of-function mutations of key genes in peroxisomal biogenesis (PEX genes) leading to Zellweger spectrum disorders.

As peroxisomes have a role in metabolism, they are known to respond to environmental cues by altering their size, number and distribution to ensure optimal functionality.


Analysis of Timed Rebeca. Before introducing bounded floating time transition system, two other approaches have been developed for verification of Timed Rebeca models. These approaches translate Timed Rebeca model to timed automata and Erlang to use their back-end model checkers as verification engine [23, 4] . An ongoing project is using real-time Maude as the back-end analysis engine. As mentioned above, because of difficulties of modeling asynchronous message passing in timed automata, and fine-grain model checking of McErlang and real-time Maude, all these three approaches result in state space explosion earlier than FTTS model checking. The state space generation approach that we have used in BFTTS is an innovative and novel technique that gives us a significant reduction and enables us to model check larger systems.

Analysis of Timed Rebeca.

These approaches translate Timed Rebeca model to timed automata and Erlang to use their back-end model checkers as verification engine.


The timing primitives that are added to the syntax of Rebeca are delay, deadline and after. The delay statement models the passing of time for a rebec during execution of a message server. The keywords after and deadline can only be used in conjunction with a method call. The value of the argument of after shows how long it takes for the message to be delivered to its receiver. The deadline shows the timeout for the message, i.e., how long it will stay valid. We illustrate the application of these keywords with an example. Fig. 2 shows the Timed Rebeca model of a ticket service system. As shown in line 12 of the model, issuing the ticket takes three time units (the value of issueDelay passed to rebec ts in the main block). At lines 23 and 24 the rebec instantiated from Agent sends a message requestTicket to rebec ts instantiated from TicketService, and gives a deadline of five to the receiver to take this message and start serving it. The periodic task of retrying for a new ticket is modeled in line 42 by the customer sending a try message to itself and letting the receiver to take it from its bag only after 30 units of time (by stating after (30) ).

The periodic task of retrying for a new ticket is modeled in line 42 by the customer sending a try message to itself and letting the receiver to take it from its bag only after 30 units of time (by stating after).


Obesity and its common sequelae (e.g. type II diabetes and cardio vascular diseases) are a worldwide increasing health risk factor. The mechanisms resulting in excess storage of fat reserves depend on the over-consumption of dietary energy stimulated by high caloric and attractive food and/or reduced daily energy expenditure due to sedentary life-style [1] [2] [3] . The underlying physiological pathways and their genetic causes interacting with environmental factors still require substantial research efforts. Importantly, not only direct effects of increased adiposity e.g. on the sceleto-muscular system or insulin function need to be considered but also the sensitivity of obese patients to noxious substances resulting from air pollution or the adverse effects of very small airborne particles that are inhaled [1] [2] [3] .

The mechanisms resulting in excess storage of fat reserves depend on the over-consumption of dietary energy stimulated by high caloric and attractive food and/or reduced daily energy expenditure due to sedentary life-style.

Importantly, not only direct effects of increased adiposity e.g. on the sceleto-muscular system or insulin function need to be considered but also the sensitivity of obese patients to noxious substances resulting from air pollution or the adverse effects of very small airborne particles that are inhaled.


Social engineering attacks can be explained using the analogy of the stack of Swiss cheese slices, known as the Swiss cheese model or the cumulative act effect (Reason, 1990) . This model depicts the various elements of an organisation as layers. In an ideal world, these layers are intact; however, in the real world, they resemble slices of cheese with holes. A single layer that has a hole poses no problem. However, if there are holes in multiple layers and these align, an error can take place, that is, the system is penetrable, and therefore, an employee could become a victim of social engineering. Offenders can use influence techniques to create holes in the cheese or to align them.

Social engineering attacks can be explained using the analogy of the stack of Swiss cheese slices, known as the Swiss cheese model or the cumulative act effect.


Procedural countermeasures could, for example, involve the use a classification system for all organisational data, including employee and PC names, schedules, and software versions. Data above a certain classification threshold should not be allowed to leave the organisation. Furthermore, in the case of someone receiving a request, it should be determined if the request is legitimate (Mitnick & Simon, 2002) . This can be done by verifying the identity of the requester (e.g., call-back policy or shared secret). An employee who receives a request for information should verify the identity of the requester and initiate the communication via a channel that is verified by the organisation. If someone claims to be a colleague, the employment status should be confirmed (e.g., lookup in employee directory or contact their manager for verification). After verifying the employment status, check the knowledge needs of that person (e.g., check level of classification employee or contact his manager). It is important that the verification does not become a time-consuming process because employees might then ignore this.

Furthermore, in the case of someone receiving a request, it should be determined if the request is legitimate.


Another suggestion for the removal of the correlation is the reparameterisation through system disturbances described in the Appendix. The relative efficiency of this scheme is expected to lie between the efficiency obtained through sampling state parameters separately and jointly (Liu, Wong & Kong, 1994) . The empirical results in § 3 also suggest superiority of sampling procedures after this reparameterisation.

The relative efficiency of this scheme is expected to lie between the efficiency obtained through sampling state parameters separately and jointly.


With the ever-growing demand for energy storage technologies, the advanced battery systems have been intriguing extensive research [1] . Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries have emerged as one of the most attractive candidates to satisfy the next generation commercialized electrochemical power storage sources due to the high theoretical capacity and energy density (1,675 mA h g ) besides cost effectiveness and environmental friendliness [2] . However, many challenges still should be solved [3] . First, the lower electronic conductivity of sulfur and the discharge products (Li 2 S) causes the low utilization of sulfur [4] . Second, the higher solubility of Li 2 S n (3≤n≤8) in the ether electrolyte leads to a rapid capacity fade and low Coulombic efficiency [5] . Third, the larger volume expansion of about 80% from sulfur to Li 2 S is a main reason of the pulverization of the entire electrode [6] .

With the ever-growing demand for energy storage technologies, the advanced battery systems have been intriguing extensive research.

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries have emerged as one of the most attractive candidates to satisfy the next generation commercialized electrochemical power storage sources due to the high theoretical capacity and energy density (1,675 mA h g ) besides cost effectiveness and environmental friendliness.

However, many challenges still should be solved.

First, the lower electronic conductivity of sulfur and the discharge products (Li 2 S) causes the low utilization of sulfur.

Second, the higher solubility of Li 2 S n (3≤n≤8) in the ether electrolyte leads to a rapid capacity fade and low Coulombic efficiency.

Third, the larger volume expansion of about 80% from sulfur to Li 2 S is a main reason of the pulverization of the entire electrode.


The relationship between agriculture and economic growth is an extensively debated topic. Often, a low productivity level and a slow growth of the agricultural sector are perceived as the main causes for low incomes and slow economic growth in developing countries (Alston and Pardey, 2014) . A declining share for agriculture in national employment and gross domestic product (GDP) is an inevitable consequence of economic progress (Cervantes-Godoy and Brooks, 2008; Byerlee et al., 2009) . This is largely due to higher income elasticities of demand for non-agricultural goods and services.

Often, a low productivity level and a slow growth of the agricultural sector are perceived as the main causes for low incomes and slow economic growth in developing countries.

A declining share for agriculture in national employment and gross domestic product (GDP) is an inevitable consequence of economic progress.


Instruments for assessment in psychiatry often do not describe or standardize a data-collection strategy [43] . However, both the sources used to make judgments and the manner of data collection from the sources are critical [43] . Evaluations should characterize patients, but most of the variability in diagnostics has been proposed to be a product of the evaluations and not the patients [44] . The development of effective interventions is slowed by problems with the evaluation instruments [43] . When raters of GAF assess on the basis of different information, different values may result [9] . An examination of GAF (with anchor points and examples of symptoms and functioning items) shows an obvious need for collecting information before rating. Information collection is a central element in the process for scoring GAF. Differences in information can explain some of the discrepancy in reliability studies for GAF [9] . However, little attention has been given to problems concerning collection of information. It has been proposed that all available information of importance for GAF should be examined [24] . The information available must, therefore, be sufficient for good overall judgement of symptoms and functioning.

Instruments for assessment in psychiatry often do not describe or standardize a data-collection strategy.

However, both the sources used to make judgments and the manner of data collection from the sources are critical.

Evaluations should characterize patients, but most of the variability in diagnostics has been proposed to be a product of the evaluations and not the patients.

The development of effective interventions is slowed by problems with the evaluation instruments.

When raters of GAF assess on the basis of different information, different values may result.

Differences in information can explain some of the discrepancy in reliability studies for GAF.

It has been proposed that all available information of importance for GAF should be examined.


Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) is an assessment instrument that rates severity of illness and is known worldwide [4, 5] . An advantage of GAF lies in its simplicity [6] . Rating GAF is dependent on collecting information about psychological, social and occupational functioning. In its construction, GAF is an overall (global) measure of how patients are doing: it covers the range from positive mental health to severe psychopathology, and is intended to be a generic rather than a diagnosis-specific scoring system. Compared to diagnostic categories, GAF results in more comprehensive clinical descriptions [7] . Internationally, recorded GAF values can be a single value (only the most severe of symptom and functioning values is recorded) or recorded as separate values for symptoms (GAF-S) and functioning (GAF-F). For both GAF-S and GAF-F, there are 100 scoring possibilities (1-100) [4, 5] . GAF has a wide range of applications. For example, it can be used in research and in the clinic to determine how well a treatment is working; improve the ability to link daily clinical work to empirical research; compare treatment results across diagnoses; allocate resources; and measure case-mix in mental health care.

Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) is an assessment instrument that rates severity of illness and is known worldwide.

An advantage of GAF lies in its simplicity.

Compared to diagnostic categories, GAF results in more comprehensive clinical descriptions.

For both GAF-S and GAF-F, there are 100 scoring possibilities (1-100).

GAF has a wide range of applications.


Nowadays, the design of the next generation affordable aircrafts includes all-weather, long-range and multi-mission objectives, among others [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] . These objectives lead to new requirements for aircraft engine design. On one hand, the newly designed engine should have turbojet features such as higher specific thrust in order to qualify for thrust-stringent objectives such as non-augmented supersonic cruising and transonic climbing. On the other hand, it should also have the turbofan features of lower specific fuel consumption (SFC) to compete in fuel cost objectives such as long-range reconnaissance. Clearly, to achieve these conflicting goals in an engine, the variable cycle engine (VCE) is undoubtedly an ideal propulsion device [6] [7] [8] .

Nowadays, the design of the next generation affordable aircrafts includes all-weather, long-range and multi-mission objectives, among others.

Clearly, to achieve these conflicting goals in an engine, the variable cycle engine (VCE) is undoubtedly an ideal propulsion device.


One significant theoretical constraint whose implications for real path quantum theory need to be properly understood is the no-signalling principle. Practically speaking, for models in which a physically sensible multi-particle or field configuration distance function allows real path quantum theory for small subsystems of the universe to be approximately derived from a fundamental real path quantum theory for the universe, we do not expect agents' choices about actions on one small subsystem to have a significant effect on the real path probability distribution of another distant small subsystem. So, for such models, we expect no-signalling to be an excellent approximation by this operational definition. However, the possibility of enforcing no-signalling precisely and in all circumstances, and the implications of such a constraint, needs further investigation. A failure of no-signalling need not be a reason for rejecting any form of real path quantum theory, particularly if the observational consequences are negligible. There are consistent Lorentz invariant generalisations of quantum theory that in principle allow superluminal signalling but evade causal paradoxes [22] . However, the no-signalling principle remains, at the very least, a very interesting theoretical constraint on generalizations of quantum theory [15, 26] .

There are consistent Lorentz invariant generalisations of quantum theory that in principle allow superluminal signalling but evade causal paradoxes.

However, the no-signalling principle remains, at the very least, a very interesting theoretical constraint on generalizations of quantum theory.


The main intermolecular interactions are the R 2 2 (8) dimers involving strong hydrogen bonds O1-H1· · · O2 −x+1,−y,−z between the carboxyl groups of adjacent molecules. Another hydrogen-bonding interaction involves a methine H7 atom that is engaged in bifurcated symmetrical C7-H7· · · O contacts to carboxyl O1 and ether O3 atoms of neighbouring molecule, and making a graph-set motif of C 2 1 (3)[R 2 1 (5)], running along a axis (Figure 4) . A bifurcation is confirmed by the sum of angles about atom H7, which is 359.7(10) • [19] .

A bifurcation is confirmed by the sum of angles about atom H7, which is 359.7(10) •.


Mean post-traumatic shortening the fractured clavicle is approximately 1.2 cm, but a reduction of up to 3 cm has been described [10] . In the last decade, many studies have reported that a shortened clavicle can lead to pain, loss of strength, rapid fatigue, hyperesthesia of the hand and arm, difficulty sleeping on the affected side and aesthetic complications [11] . Many authors have observed the onset of pain, the degree of which is related to the extent of shortening of the bone segment; however, discordant lengths ranging from 1.5 to 2.3 cm have been reported [12] . For this reason, we elected to study the percentage of reduction of the bone segment length as compared to the pretrauma length (or to the contralateral clavicle) to negate the constitutional physiological differences in clavicle length that are present in the population.

Mean post-traumatic shortening the fractured clavicle is approximately 1.2 cm, but a reduction of up to 3 cm has been described.

In the last decade, many studies have reported that a shortened clavicle can lead to pain, loss of strength, rapid fatigue, hyperesthesia of the hand and arm, difficulty sleeping on the affected side and aesthetic complications.

Many authors have observed the onset of pain, the degree of which is related to the extent of shortening of the bone segment; however, discordant lengths ranging from 1.5 to 2.3 cm have been reported.


There are four genes (GhRDL , GhACY , GhFDH and GhSCP ) that are for the first time found to have a fiberenriched expression pattern. As indicated above, GhRDL shows high similarities to BURP domaincontaining proteins, including a dehydration-and abscisic acid (ABA)-induced protein RD22 of Arabidopsis . RD22 is also expressed in seeds during early and mid stages of development, in an ABA-independent manner [24] . More recently, MYC and MYB proteins were found to function as transcriptional activators in the dehydration-and ABA-inducible expression of the RD22 gene [29] . Whether GhRDL expression could also be induced by ABA or stress conditions awaits further investigation. The highly fiber-enriched manner of expression suggests that its promoter is of value in dissecting the mechanism of fiber-gene expression and in engineering cotton fiber development. The BURP domain is present in diverse plant proteins with different pattern of expression, but its function remains to be elucidated. Interestingly, the tomato fruit PG1b (b subunit of polygalacturonase isoenzyme 1) is also a BURP domain-containing protein, and is involved in regulating pectin metabolism by hydrolyzing pectins [30, 31] . Based on this, the BURP domain was assumed to interact with structural components of the cell wall [25] .

RD22 is also expressed in seeds during early and mid stages of development, in an ABA-independent manner.

More recently, MYC and MYB proteins were found to function as transcriptional activators in the dehydration-and ABA-inducible expression of the RD22 gene.

Interestingly, the tomato fruit PG1b (b subunit of polygalacturonase isoenzyme 1) is also a BURP domain-containing protein, and is involved in regulating pectin metabolism by hydrolyzing pectins.

Based on this, the BURP domain was assumed to interact with structural components of the cell wall.


The various operations of producing mineral commodities are energy expensive because of the laws of physics: we need energy to break the chemical bonds that keep rock together, that bind atoms together, to lift and haul materials, and for more forms of processing. The fact that we can do that with the amount of primary production that we can manage today is due to the "energy loan" provided by geophysical processes that have used solar or geothermal energy over very long times in the past in order to lift the ores we use today to a sufficiently high exergy level. But, in the long run, we must repay that loan one way or another. Ore depletion is gradually transforming the Earth into the "Thanatia" world where all minerals are dispersed at their average concentration in the Earth's crust (Valero and Valero, 2012) . We are still far away from such a world, but in the long run it is unavoidable if we keep on mining the way we have been doing up to now.

Ore depletion is gradually transforming the Earth into the "Thanatia" world where all minerals are dispersed at their average concentration in the Earth's crust.


Power steering, also known as power assistance, has been used for many years to lower the required steering effort when turning a vehicle or a vessel (Howe, 1956) . In recent years various more advanced steering systems have emerged. These include new refined methods for applying assistance torque and changing steering ratio (Heissing and Ersoy, 2010) . Also, they are most often electronically controlled which allows for a greater flexibility in behaviour. It also opens up for precise tuning of steering support level at every speed and driving situation.

Power steering, also known as power assistance, has been used for many years to lower the required steering effort when turning a vehicle or a vessel.

These include new refined methods for applying assistance torque and changing steering ratio.


Despite presence of worsening symptoms patients in both groups delayed seeking health care, which is in consistency with previous studies [22] . One reason for patient delays could be that the patients simply failed to identify early symptoms of worsening HF. Other factors contributing to intentional or non-intentional delays in health care seeking should be thoroughly explored among both EF; ejection fraction, ACE; Angiotensin converting enzyme ARB; angiotensin receptor blocker patient groups. In this regard, characteristics such as the individual's world view, the causal explanation of the disease from a patient perspective, the meaning of illness and cultural metaphors assigned to the illness and disease should also be considered [23] . However, patients' perceptions of their role and ability to influence the condition and perform self-care are also important. Other patient-related factors, such as lack of knowledge about how the health care system works (how to enter and use it), can also explain delays in seeking health care. Moreover, lack of language skills or dependence on others to get to hospital or primary care clinics may contribute to delays [24] . Our patients may also have sought other informal care prior to hospital admissions [25] .

Despite presence of worsening symptoms patients in both groups delayed seeking health care, which is in consistency with previous studies.

In this regard, characteristics such as the individual's world view, the causal explanation of the disease from a patient perspective, the meaning of illness and cultural metaphors assigned to the illness and disease should also be considered.

Moreover, lack of language skills or dependence on others to get to hospital or primary care clinics may contribute to delays.

Our patients may also have sought other informal care prior to hospital admissions.


To compare the self-assembling properties of Fmoc-XXs, we investigated their CACs by using a widely used environment-responsive and preferentially β-sheet binding fluorescence dye, thioflavin T (ThT) [33] . Fig. 2b summarizes the CACs evaluated from the concentrationdependent fluorescence intensity plot ( Fig. 2a ). Here, Fmoc-D FmF showed the lowest CAC and the strongest propensity to self-assemble, while Fmoc-mF D F showed the highest CAC and a significantly lower fluorescence intensity, suggesting its weaker propensity to self-assemble and adopt β-sheet structures. Additionally, this result indicates that the methyl groups introduced onto the α carbons have a significant influence on the self-assembling propensity and suggests that there would be a tendency for the methyl group at the N-terminus to enhance selfassembly and a tendency for that at the C-terminus to attenuate it.

To compare the self-assembling properties of Fmoc-XXs, we investigated their CACs by using a widely used environment-responsive and preferentially β-sheet binding fluorescence dye, thioflavin T (ThT).


Herein, we describe the self-assembly and supramolecular hydrogel formation ability of Fmoc-dipeptides (Fmoc-XXs, Fmoc = 9-fluorenylmethyloxycarbonyl, X = F or D F or mF) comprising α-methyl-L-phenylalanine (mF) as one of the ααAAs and/or L-phenylalanine (F) or D-phenylalanine ( D F). To our knowledge, the influence of such chemical modification of the Fmoc-FF at the α carbons on the self-assembling propensity is unexplored. Due to a reliable and scalable synthetic procedure with asymmetric phase-transfer catalysts, developed by Maruoka and coworkers, a variety of ααAAs, including mF, with high purity are now commercially available [27, 28] . In this study, we found that the position and number of methyl groups introduced onto the α carbons of the Fmocdipeptides ( Fig. 1) have an unexpectedly marked influence on the morphology of the supramolecular nanostructure as well as the hydrogel formation ability.

Due to a reliable and scalable synthetic procedure with asymmetric phase-transfer catalysts, developed by Maruoka and coworkers, a variety of ααAAs, including mF, with high purity are now commercially available.


It could be considered that the underlying central theme in low-grade portal hypertensive inflammation is the disturbance in splanchnic and systemic hemodynamics [1, 2] . This splanchnic and systemic hemodynamic response would be aggravated during the progression of the chronic liver disease [2, 3] . Thus, a critical state is produced in which the appearance of noxious factors during the progressive evolution of chronic liver disease would favor the development of a high-grade splanchnic and systemic inflammatory response [2, 4, 5] .

It could be considered that the underlying central theme in low-grade portal hypertensive inflammation is the disturbance in splanchnic and systemic hemodynamics.

This splanchnic and systemic hemodynamic response would be aggravated during the progression of the chronic liver disease.

Thus, a critical state is produced in which the appearance of noxious factors during the progressive evolution of chronic liver disease would favor the development of a high-grade splanchnic and systemic inflammatory response.


The main objective of the present study is two-fold: To assess the prevalence of tinnitus in a large population of elderly patients with CHF, and to define the relationship between the presence of such an ear disorder and the severity and clinical prognosis of CHF Methods This is a cross-sectional study with a long-term extension of the clinical follow-up. The researchers evaluated 958 consecutive elderly patients (age > 65 years) with a diagnosis of CHF (New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class I to III) who were attending the Outpatients Clinic for Congestive Heart Failure of the Department of Medicine at the University of Bologna. CHF was diagnosed by the same two well-trained physicians according to the standard criteria proposed by the European Society of Cardiology [16] .

CHF was diagnosed by the same two well-trained physicians according to the standard criteria proposed by the European Society of Cardiology.


The application of AdS/CFT to the study of condensed matter systems is in rapid evolution. One of the most interesting applications has been the investigation of strongly coupled systems which undergo a superconducting phase transition below a critical temperature [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] . On the field theory side, the onset of superconductivity is characterized by the condensation of a composite charged operator for low temperatures T < T c . In the dual gravitational description, the superconducting phase transition is represented by a transition from a black hole in anti-de Sitter space to a new black hole solution with "hair", which is thermodynamically preferred below the critical temperature T c .

One of the most interesting applications has been the investigation of strongly coupled systems which undergo a superconducting phase transition below a critical temperature.


To compute the acoustic modes of a fluid alone, the fluid is typically described either by pressure or by displacement potential variables. Such formulations have the advantage of using only one degree of freedom per node in the fluid. However, when the fluid is coupled with a solid, both lead to non-symmetric eigenvalue problems (see, for instance, the book by Zienkiewicz and Taylor [11] ).

However, when the fluid is coupled with a solid, both lead to non-symmetric eigenvalue problems (see, for instance, the book by Zienkiewicz and Taylor).


While getting a good initial partitioning of a static graph is certainly important, many modern graphs are dynamic, with new vertices and edges being added at high rates, and in some cases vertices and edges may be removed. Therefore, a good initial partitioning may degrade over time. It is inefficient to repeatedly run the static graph partitioning algorithm to repartition the entire graph every time the partitioning starts to degrade a little. Instead, it is preferable to incrementally maintain a quality graph partitioning, dynamically adjusting as new vertices and edges are added to the graph. For this reason, there has been several recent research efforts in dynamic graph partitioning [33, 32, 31, 40, 39, 42] .

For this reason, there has been several recent research efforts in dynamic graph partitioning.


Let us highlight these differences. In the linear case, the contribution of one single tree (namely the tall, branchless tree) dominates the local error. This is no longer the case for the nonlinear oscillator (14) . On the other hand, the contributions of all trees of the same order to the global error are constant multiples of one another (this has been checked for order ≤ 6). This allows us to kill the leading term of the global error. Experiments show that this strategy indeed works, but we still do not completely understand what is going on.

Let us highlight these differences.

This is no longer the case for the nonlinear oscillator.


This example is the Emden-Fowler equation y ′′ + t ν y n = 0. For a particular range of parameters, the solutions of this nonlinear equation are oscillatory. It was selected because it is neither linear nor autonomous, and the oscillatory behaviour of its solutions will probably lead to substantial cancellations causing more difficulties. Yet it is still amenable to analysis, in particular because we can derive its asymptotic solution for large t. Finally, it seems a logical sequel to the Airy equation y ′′ + ty = 0, considered by Iserles [18] . The remainder of this paper is organized as follows. The next section introduces the Alekseev-Gröbner lemma and the theory of modified equations, and shows how they can be used to estimate the global error. The resulting a priori estimates are exact up to a term of order h 2p , where h is the step size and p the order of the method. In Section 3, we show how these estimates look like for a class of linear oscillators, which includes the Airy equation. We condense the calculations because many are already described by Iserles [18] . The Emden-Fowler equation is introduced in Section 4, where we also describe its asymptotic solution. Section 5 contains the actual calculation of global error estimates. The estimates are supported by numerical experiments, as described in Section 6. The last section discusses the results, draws them into comparison with the work done by others, and presents some pointers for further research.

Yet it is still amenable to analysis, in particular because we can derive its asymptotic solution for large t. Finally, it seems a logical sequel to the Airy equation y ′′ + ty = 0, considered by Iserles.

We condense the calculations because many are already described by Iserles.


With the popularization of geo-tagged data (e.g., geo-tagged photos, videos, check-ins, and text messages), many online location-based services such as Google Maps, Yahoo Maps, and Bing Maps have started providing useful information via location-based queries [1] [2] [3] [4] . Moreover, textual descriptions of points of interest, e.g., hotels, shopping malls, and tourist attractions, are easily accessible on the Web. These developments demand techniques that efficiently process top-k spatial keyword queries that return a ranked list of the k best facilities based on their proximity to the query location and relevance to the query keywords. Several algorithms have been proposed for processing top-k spatial keyword queries in Euclidean space [5, 6] . Although few algorithms exist that study keyword queries in a road network, they all focus on undirected road networks. However, in real scenarios the urban road networks are directed and dynamic where each edge has a particular orientation and its weight changes according to traffic conditions such as traffic congestion and reversible lanes. Therefore, in this study, we investigate moving top-k spatial keyword queries in directed and dynamic road networks.

With the popularization of geo-tagged data (e.g., geo-tagged photos, videos, check-ins, and text messages), many online location-based services such as Google Maps, Yahoo Maps, and Bing Maps have started providing useful information via location-based queries.

Several algorithms have been proposed for processing top-k spatial keyword queries in Euclidean space.


Postharvest diseases are one of the major factors that affect the quality of horticultural fresh products during storage. Since fruit and vegetables are living organisms, their shelf life is greatly affected by temperature, relative humidity (RH), composition of the atmosphere during and after harvest, and the type and degree of infection by microorganisms or attack by insects [1] . Fruit contains high levels of sugars and nutrient elements, and the low pH values make them particularly susceptible to fungal decay. Fruit fungal infection may occur during flowering, fruit growth, harvesting, transport, packing operations, postharvest storage, or after purchase by the consumer [2] . Moreover, the natural resistance of fruit and vegetables to disease declines with storage duration and ripeness [3] .

Since fruit and vegetables are living organisms, their shelf life is greatly affected by temperature, relative humidity (RH), composition of the atmosphere during and after harvest, and the type and degree of infection by microorganisms or attack by insects.

Fruit fungal infection may occur during flowering, fruit growth, harvesting, transport, packing operations, postharvest storage, or after purchase by the consumer.

Moreover, the natural resistance of fruit and vegetables to disease declines with storage duration and ripeness.


Surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices have been key components in telecommunication systems for the last decades [1] . The optimal choice of piezoelectric material is one of the main challenges to realize such sensors. Currently, commercially available SAW devices are based on langasite (La3Ga5SiO14, LGS), langatate (La3Ga5.5Ta0.5O14, LGT) or langanite (La3Ga5.5Nb0.5O14, LGN), whose major disadvantage is the low phase velocity (e.g., 2700 m/s in LGS) and high acoustic propagation loses during high temperature load [2] [3] [4] . Aluminum nitride (AlN) or scandium doped aluminum nitride (AlScN) on sapphire is regarded as a promising alternative to LGS, LGT and LGN, given much higher phase velocities above 5600 m/s [5, 6] . With these higher phase velocities, higher frequencies can be achieved with the same device dimensions (at fixed wavelength ), due to the relation = ⁄ .

Surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices have been key components in telecommunication systems for the last decades.

Currently, commercially available SAW devices are based on langasite (La3Ga5SiO14, LGS), langatate (La3Ga5.5Ta0.5O14, LGT) or langanite (La3Ga5.5Nb0.5O14, LGN), whose major disadvantage is the low phase velocity (e.g., 2700 m/s in LGS) and high acoustic propagation loses during high temperature load.

Aluminum nitride (AlN) or scandium doped aluminum nitride (AlScN) on sapphire is regarded as a promising alternative to LGS, LGT and LGN, given much higher phase velocities above 5600 m/s.


Land surface phenology (LSP) studies various observable phenomena on the terrestrial surface relevant to cycles in vegetation growth and development (de Beurs and Henebry 2004a) . LSP uses image time series of remotely sensed land surface properties to characterize dynamics of vegetation cover, such as the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), leaf area index (LAI), fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (FPAR). Satellite imagery can provide synoptic views spanning large areas difficult to access on the ground (de Beurs and Henebry 2005a) .

Land surface phenology (LSP) studies various observable phenomena on the terrestrial surface relevant to cycles in vegetation growth and development.

Satellite imagery can provide synoptic views spanning large areas difficult to access on the ground.


Differences in land management practices and institutions affecting land management can result in heterogeneous spatial patterns including abrupt transitions at national borders (Kuemmerle et al 2008) . We explore here the change, variability, and persistence of land surface phenologies in the industrial and agricultural heartland of the former Soviet Union during the socio-economic transition from socialism. The Don river basin, mostly in Russia, and the Dnieper river basin, mostly in Ukraine, were similar in several respects before the collapse. We hypothesize that observed trends in LSPs following the collapse arise primarily from institutional changes and secondarily from climatic variability and, further, that the land surface dynamics in the basins diverged after the collapse, particularly in the agricultural lands.

Differences in land management practices and institutions affecting land management can result in heterogeneous spatial patterns including abrupt transitions at national borders.


In the feature matching step, a descriptor has to be obtained so that it can be used to identify features and match them across images. The processes of obtaining the interest point detectors and also feature descriptors between the points in the left and right images of the stereo image pairs are crucial in order to get accurate pose estimation [3] - [4] . They should be capable to cater the changes in scale and orientation of images. Moreover, the feature detection and matching should be fast to compute because the visual odometry is a real time process.

The processes of obtaining the interest point detectors and also feature descriptors between the points in the left and right images of the stereo image pairs are crucial in order to get accurate pose estimation.