Aim A simple, sensitive and rapid RP HPLC method with pre column derivatization has been developed for the determination of sulphonylurea glimepiride in dog serum. Methods The sulphonylurea glimepiride was extract...Aim A simple, sensitive and rapid RP HPLC method with pre column derivatization has been developed for the determination of sulphonylurea glimepiride in dog serum. Methods The sulphonylurea glimepiride was extracted from the dog serum using dichlromethane followed by derivatization with DNBF for 20 min at 100℃. The solvent was then evaporated at 60℃ under nitrogen, and the residue was taken up in 100 μL of mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile water (75∶30, v/v). The separation was performed on a Hypersil BDS C18 column with a flow rate of 0 8 mL·min -1 , and the ultraviolet detector wavelength was set at 350 nm. Results Extraction recovery ranged from 75.9% to 83.2%, and methodological recovery was between 96.5% and 109.3%. Within day RSD ranged from 1.5% to 6.3%, and inter day RSD was between 2 9% and 14.8%. The method showed good linearity (R=0.9998). Conclusion The method was simple, convenient and sensitive. The reaction of derivatization was reproducible.展开更多
The effects of major veins severing on morphological and physiological features of sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua L.) leaves were investigated by observing leaf color change and measuring leaf temperature, green/...The effects of major veins severing on morphological and physiological features of sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua L.) leaves were investigated by observing leaf color change and measuring leaf temperature, green/luminance (G/L) value of half-lobes, leaf stomata conductance, and water content in Yamaguchi University, Japan. The palmately veined leaves of sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua L.) were found more sensitive to the major vein severing than that of other species Major veins severing resulted in serious water stresses, as indicated by the persistent reddening and/or advanced reddening of local leaf, lower leaf stomatal conductance, and higher leaf temperature, etc. Severed leaf can be clearly divided into non-severed area, transitional area, and stressed area, which the three areas have different colours and temperature. The major vein barrier can also be seen clearly. The persistent reddening and advanced reddening seem consistent with the phenomenon of red crown top of some sweetgum trees and may have similar mechanism.展开更多
A structured literature review was performed to detail the frequency and etiology of chronic liver disease (CLD) in Aboriginal North Americans. CLD affects Aboriginal North Americans disproportionately and is now one ...A structured literature review was performed to detail the frequency and etiology of chronic liver disease (CLD) in Aboriginal North Americans. CLD affects Aboriginal North Americans disproportionately and is now one of the most common causes of death. Alcoholic liver disease is the leading etiology of CLD, but viral hepatitis, particularly hepatitis C, is an important and growing cause of CLD. High rates of autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) are reported in regions of coastal British Columbia and southeastern Alaska. Non-alcoholic liver disease is a common, but understudied, cause of CLD. Future research should monitor the incidence and etiology of CLD and should be geographically inclusive. In addition, more research is needed on the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in this population.展开更多
With global warming and declining Arctic sea ice area in autumn observed by satellites since 1979, anomalous cold snaps in recent winters have affected large parts of North America, Europe, and East Asia. In January 2...With global warming and declining Arctic sea ice area in autumn observed by satellites since 1979, anomalous cold snaps in recent winters have affected large parts of North America, Europe, and East Asia. In January 2015, North America suffered extremely cold and heavy snowfall events. As revealed in this paper, the NCEP reanalysis data show that the temperature decreased significantly in January 2015 in North America, including the air temperature in the troposphere and the surface air temperature. Moreover, snow cover increased obviously in January 2015 in North America, while there was a significant negative anomaly of geopotential height. The wind formed the anomalous pattern, which favored cold currents blowing to the North American continent from the polar region, and bringing plenty of water vapor. Our results suggest that the anomalous north wind and decreasing westerly jet stream, which allowed cold and moist air to easily penetrate the North American continent from the Arctic, was one of the main reasons for the extremely cold and heavysnow winter of 2015 in North America.展开更多
The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (southern Gulf of Maine, northwest Atlantic) is partially overlapped by the Western Gulf of Maine Closure Area (WGMCA). This is a region in which mobile, bottom-distur...The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (southern Gulf of Maine, northwest Atlantic) is partially overlapped by the Western Gulf of Maine Closure Area (WGMCA). This is a region in which mobile, bottom-disturbing fishing gear has been banned by the New England Fishery Management Council to facilitate the rebuilding of depleted gronndfish populations. We assessed the effects and effectiveness of the WGMCA on groundfish assemblages using habitat-stratified (gravel, sand, mixed benthic habitats) sampling by means of a commercial trawler, inside and outside of the WGMCA. Sampling occurred over three mouth-long sampling periods in 2004-2005, two during the spring seasons and one during the fall season. A total of 18 species were analyzed for protection effects. After controlling for substratum, location and sampling season, eight groundfish species exhibited higher mean proportional abundance inside than outside the WGMCA while two were proportionally more abundant on average outside of the closure. Four species had higher mean proportional biomasses on average inside the closure and three outside. We conclude that the WGMCA may be achieving its goal of rebuilding abundance and biomass for some commercially targeted groundfishes but not all. This study, six to seven years post-closure establishment, reveals fine-scale spatial and taxonomic complexity which will require a very different monitoring protocol than the one currently in place if adaptive management is to be successful in the region [Current Zoology 56 (1): 134-143, 2010].展开更多
In this study,we investigated the effects of low salinity(26 and 21) on the prophenoloxidase(proPO) system and related defence parameters in the shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei.The results showed that low salinity induced...In this study,we investigated the effects of low salinity(26 and 21) on the prophenoloxidase(proPO) system and related defence parameters in the shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei.The results showed that low salinity induced a significant increase of dopamine(DA) concentration in haemolymph at 6 h of the experiment;on the other hand,total haemocyte count(THC),differential haemocyte count(DHC) and PO activity decreased over time to the lowest level at 24 h and remained low thereafter.Serine Protease(SP) and Proteinase Inhibitor(PI) activity in the two lower salinity treatments decreased to the lowest level at 12 and 24 h,respectively,and both recovered to the control level at 72 h.In contrast,α2-macroglobulin(α2M) activity in the two lower salinity treatments peaked at 24 h and then decreased to the control level at 72 h.Therefore,it may be concluded that stress-induced DA plays an important temporary role in neurotransmission and causes immune response in L.vannamei in adapting to salinity changes.展开更多
To investigate the influence of sodium to potassium (Na/IO ratios on the growth performance and physiological response of the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vananmei), various concentrations of KC1 were added to...To investigate the influence of sodium to potassium (Na/IO ratios on the growth performance and physiological response of the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vananmei), various concentrations of KC1 were added to low-salinity well water (salinity 4) in an 8-week culture trial. Six treatments with NWK ratios of 60:1, 42:1, 33:1, 23:1, 17:1, and 14:1 were replicated in triplicate. The highest weight-gain rate (3 506±48)% and survival rate (89.38±0.88)% was observed in well water with Na/K ratios of 23:1 and 42:1, respectively, while the feed conversion ratio (1.02~0.01), oxygen consumption, and ammonia-N excretion rate was the lowest in the medium with a Na/K ratio of 23:1. Gill Na+-K+-ATPase activity, as an indicator of osmoregulation, peaked in the treatment where the Na/K ratio was 17:1. The total hemocyte count, respiratory burst, and immune-related enzyme activities (ALP, LSZ, PO, and SOD) ofL. vananmei were affected significantly by Na/K ratios (P〈0.05). After challenged with Vibrio harveyi, the cumulative mortality of shrimp reared in a Na/K ratio of 23:1 (30±14.14)% was significantly lower than the control (75~7.07)%. In conclusion, the addition of K+ to low-salinity well water in L. vannamei cultures is feasible. Na/K ratios ranging from 23:1 to 33:1 might improve survival and growth. Immunity and disease resistance are also closely related to the Na/K ratio of the low-salinity well water. The findings may contribute to the development of more efficient K^+ remediation strategies for L. vananmei culture in low-salinity well water.展开更多
The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationships of e-service quality dimensions with overall internet banking service quality, and its effect on customer satisfaction in the USA banking industry. The propose...The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationships of e-service quality dimensions with overall internet banking service quality, and its effect on customer satisfaction in the USA banking industry. The proposed instrument dimensions are identified based on a questionnaire survey conducted in the US. Based on an extensive review of literature, this paper proposed eight dimensions for measuring overall internet banking service quality and its subsequent effect on customer satisfaction. Also, this research uses American internet banking users as survey targets for its empirical studies. The results show significant relationships among the e-service quality dimensions (efficiency, fulfillment, system availability, privacy, assurance/trust, site aesthetics, responsiveness, and contact), overall internet banking service quality, and customer satisfaction. Little attention has been given in the literature to understanding of the e-service quality dimensions that influence overall internet banking service quality and the specific outcome of customer satisfaction. This paper empirically examines the relationships among the eight e-service quality dimensions, overall internet banking service quality, and customer satisfaction. The findings are important to enable bank managers to have a better understanding of the key e-service quality dimensions of internet banking that affect customer satisfaction. The primary limitations of this study are the scope and size of its sample.展开更多
There has been a significant decline in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality amidst pervasive advances in care, including percutane- ous revascularization, mechanical circulatory support, and transcatheter valvular ...There has been a significant decline in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality amidst pervasive advances in care, including percutane- ous revascularization, mechanical circulatory support, and transcatheter valvular therapies. While advancing therapies may add significant longevity, they also bring about new end-of-life decision-making challenges for patients and their families who also must weigh the advan- tages of reduced mortality to the possibility of longer lives consisting of high morbidity, frailty, pain, and poor quality of living. Advance care entails options of withholding or withdrawing therapies, and has become a familiar part of cardiovascular care for older patients in Western countries. However, as advanced cardiovascular practices extend to developing countries, the interrelated concept of advance care is rarely straight forward as it is affected by local cultural traditions and mores, and can lead to very different inferences and use. This paper discusses the concepts of advance care planning, surrogate decision-making, orders for resuscitation and futility in patients with cardiac dis- ease with comparisons of West to East, focusing particularly on the United States versus India.展开更多
The objective of this study is to examine the use of the conditional probability function(CPF) and nonparametric regression(NPR) to identify the relationship between wind direction and concentration of PM2.5(particula...The objective of this study is to examine the use of the conditional probability function(CPF) and nonparametric regression(NPR) to identify the relationship between wind direction and concentration of PM2.5(particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than or equal to 2.5 μm). Twenty four-hour integrated PM2.5 mass and species concentrations were measured at the St. Louis-Midwest Supersite in East St. Louis,Illinois,USA in the periods of 22-28 June 2001,7-13 November 2001,and 19-25 March 2002. Wind directions were measured on site. The concentrations of 15 elements and ions,i.e. Al,As,Cd,Cr,Cu,Fe,Mn,Ni,Pb,Se,Zn,OC,EC,SO4,and NO3 were calculated using the CPF and NPR. The comparison between the results obtained from the CPF and NPR demonstrated that they both agreed well with the locations of the known local point sources. The CPF was simpler and easier to calculate than NPR. In contrast,NPR provided PM2.5 concentrations but with some uncertainties. This study indicates that both methods can be utilized to promote the source apportionment study of ambient PM2.5.展开更多
In contrast with the large number of theatrical performances and filmic versions for television, both British and American, based on the play The Importance of Being Earnest (1975) by Oscar Wilde, there have only be...In contrast with the large number of theatrical performances and filmic versions for television, both British and American, based on the play The Importance of Being Earnest (1975) by Oscar Wilde, there have only been, so far, three films made for the cinema. Although one of them was made in the United States by the American director Kurt Baker in 1992, this paper will address only the two English versions, chronologically separated by a 50-year time span. It will focus on the cinematic adaptations made by English directors Anthony Asquith and Oliver Parker, the former in 1952 and the latter in 2002. Based on the same play, this comparative approach may throw some light on the evolution of cinematographic conditions and techniques as well as relate them to the expectations of audiences in the mid 20th century and at the beginning of the 21st century.展开更多
There is a need for cost-efficient methods in consumer research. Existing qualitative methods are expensive to conduct. This paper aims to improve the focus group method. The objective was to improve focus groups with...There is a need for cost-efficient methods in consumer research. Existing qualitative methods are expensive to conduct. This paper aims to improve the focus group method. The objective was to improve focus groups with different aims: shorter time conducting interviews, interview greater number of respondents, deliver results faster than traditionally analysis of data, and lower total cost. CurroCus groups of 15-45 minutes duration were tested in five different experiments, including 70 to 160 respondents in groups of 7-11 respondents. The name of the new method is formed from the word "Curro" in Latin that means speed in English, and "Cus" that is the last syllable of the word "focus", thereby forming a new word: CurroCus~ on the method. The results from testing of the CurroCus~ group method at different cases showed that trained moderators and observers could collect relevant responses in a given time for each group. It was possible to process a number of 6 to 10 respondents for each group. By conducting several successive groups, saturation of information was reached after an adequate number of CurroCus~ groups. Therefore, the total number of respondents can be optimized and results can be more precise, with reduced risk of inaccuracy. At the same time, the cost for each case can be lowered substantially, in our cases to approximately 1/10 of a traditional focus group cost. The role (skills) of the moderator is important. A disadvantage is the risk that some of the respondents are not able to express their thoughts in due time when time is limited. There is a need for more research on all parts of the CurroCus group process.展开更多
This research developed the technology which united ISO-GUM (International Organization of Standard-Guide to Express of Uncertainty in Measurement) and QE (Quality Engineer) strategically and employed both feature...This research developed the technology which united ISO-GUM (International Organization of Standard-Guide to Express of Uncertainty in Measurement) and QE (Quality Engineer) strategically and employed both feature efficiently. Although to tow technology of purpose use is same, each has future. The purpose is scheduled to improve the accuracy as a result of the clinical examinations. The result of research was used for diagnosis by equivalent Quality Control (eqQC) of the same level when and where, that are needed for broader-based medical system of the time of IT-era. Since National Institute of Standard and Technology (NIST) is recommend use of complicated operation by ISO-GUM for uniting, realization required the newest high quality computer technology. The algorithm of the complexity system of operation is that Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT) and Multi-variance Analysis (MA) are needed in Fig. 4. The main new improving points are changed of ambiguous expression method of data, and the pursuit which the cause of worsens accuracy put into data. All data with an assurance reported the final result for patient or donor. Medical laboratory quality system service is offered essential in the laboratory to be correct result for health care by Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) useful ISO 15189. Quality Assurance (QA) is achieved though system reliability.展开更多
The Song Dynasty painting "realm without me" (i.e. the beauty to nature, not to the individual bit emotional, aesthetic situation calmly silently illuminates), it is a peak China painting history, and after the Yu...The Song Dynasty painting "realm without me" (i.e. the beauty to nature, not to the individual bit emotional, aesthetic situation calmly silently illuminates), it is a peak China painting history, and after the Yuan Dynasty painting "realm" of the United States, constitutes the entire China the history of painting aesthetics of all. This "selflessness" beauty at the beginning did not possess, it is with the development of social economy, politics, literature and art thoughts and slowly spread. This paper will be of the Song Dynasty painting "selflessness" beauty, do a simple analysis, analysis of the seed to the development to the maturity of the aesthetic course.展开更多
Generally, criticism on popular music is of both political and artistic nature. This paper is intended to investigate modem Chinese popular music in the artistic dimension. On one hand, through analysis and differenti...Generally, criticism on popular music is of both political and artistic nature. This paper is intended to investigate modem Chinese popular music in the artistic dimension. On one hand, through analysis and differentiation in light of the two persistent (and biased) conceptions, it is necessary to acknowledge the inevitability of popular music as an art. On the other hand, this paper aims to analyze specifically the "voice" in popular music in hope of presenting its unique aesthetic characteristics. Above all, a more comprehensive view and more diverse approaches are needed in the study of popular music展开更多
Contemporary Chinese scholars proposed that China should construct modem Chinese aesthetic discourse system, therefore, we should attach great importance to China's own aesthetic development in 20th century and learn...Contemporary Chinese scholars proposed that China should construct modem Chinese aesthetic discourse system, therefore, we should attach great importance to China's own aesthetic development in 20th century and learn experience from it. There are four dimensions of learning. First, we should seek the origin of methods from Marxism. Second, the study should deeply rooted in Chinese traditional culture. Third, we should refer to ancient and modem Western aesthetic theories. Last but not the least, all the scholars should be encouraged to express their views freely and equally. The four dimensions, which plays an important role in constructing China's modem discourse of aesthetics, derived from the conclusion and experience of China's modem aesthetic development in 20th century.展开更多
Both intake volumetric flow and through-screen velocity (the velocity of water as it passes through the screen) are important variables affecting fish impingement at industrial water intake structures including thos...Both intake volumetric flow and through-screen velocity (the velocity of water as it passes through the screen) are important variables affecting fish impingement at industrial water intake structures including those at power plants. However, there are limited data available on quantitative assessments of impingement following changes in power plant operation such as reduced volumetric flow and intake velocity. Impingement studies were conducted at Bay Shore Power Plant in 2005-2006 (baseline) and again in 2013-2014 following fish protection mitigation which included reduced intake volumetric flows (from 33.5 m^3·s^-1 to 9.1 cm·s^-1), a reduced through-screen velocity (from approximately 79.2 cm·s^-1 to 11.6 cm·s^-1), modified traveling screens and installation of a fish-return system to gently and quickly remove any fish that were impinged back into the waterbody. A comparison of baseline and post-mitigation results suggested that with this mitigation in place, impingement reductions can exceed 90% for robust dominant fish species in the area.展开更多
In recent years, the "China Dream" has become a popular topic in China's Mainland. To tell the stories of the "Chinese Dream" from different aspect in the field of literary and artistic creation have emerged a...In recent years, the "China Dream" has become a popular topic in China's Mainland. To tell the stories of the "Chinese Dream" from different aspect in the field of literary and artistic creation have emerged as a significant phenomenon. To some extent, these texts can be regarded as national allegory. This paper will take the film American Dreams in China as a case, to provide some thoughts on the value dimensions for the construction of the "Chinese Dreams".展开更多
Residence time is an important indicator for river environmental management.In this paper,a 3D hydrodynamic model has been successfully applied to Little Manatee River to characterize the mixing and transport process ...Residence time is an important indicator for river environmental management.In this paper,a 3D hydrodynamic model has been successfully applied to Little Manatee River to characterize the mixing and transport process and residence time.The model employs horizontal curvilinear orthogonal grids to represent the complex river system that consists of branches and bayous.The model has been satisfactorily calibrated and verified by using two continuous data sets.The data sets consist of hourly observations of all forcing boundaries,including freshwater inputs,tides,winds,salinity and temperatures at bay boundary,and air temperatures for model simulations.The data sets also consist of hourly observations of water levels,salinity,and temperature at several river stations.The calibrated and verified hydrodynamic model was used to predict residence time in the Little Manatee River.Under the minimum flow of 0.312 m3/s,the pulse residence time(PRT) is 108 days.Model simulations were also conducted for 17 flow scenarios.Empirical regression equations have been satisfactorily derived to correlate PRT to freshwater inflow.Correlation coefficient R2 is 0.982 for PRT.展开更多
文摘Aim A simple, sensitive and rapid RP HPLC method with pre column derivatization has been developed for the determination of sulphonylurea glimepiride in dog serum. Methods The sulphonylurea glimepiride was extracted from the dog serum using dichlromethane followed by derivatization with DNBF for 20 min at 100℃. The solvent was then evaporated at 60℃ under nitrogen, and the residue was taken up in 100 μL of mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile water (75∶30, v/v). The separation was performed on a Hypersil BDS C18 column with a flow rate of 0 8 mL·min -1 , and the ultraviolet detector wavelength was set at 350 nm. Results Extraction recovery ranged from 75.9% to 83.2%, and methodological recovery was between 96.5% and 109.3%. Within day RSD ranged from 1.5% to 6.3%, and inter day RSD was between 2 9% and 14.8%. The method showed good linearity (R=0.9998). Conclusion The method was simple, convenient and sensitive. The reaction of derivatization was reproducible.
文摘The effects of major veins severing on morphological and physiological features of sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua L.) leaves were investigated by observing leaf color change and measuring leaf temperature, green/luminance (G/L) value of half-lobes, leaf stomata conductance, and water content in Yamaguchi University, Japan. The palmately veined leaves of sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua L.) were found more sensitive to the major vein severing than that of other species Major veins severing resulted in serious water stresses, as indicated by the persistent reddening and/or advanced reddening of local leaf, lower leaf stomatal conductance, and higher leaf temperature, etc. Severed leaf can be clearly divided into non-severed area, transitional area, and stressed area, which the three areas have different colours and temperature. The major vein barrier can also be seen clearly. The persistent reddening and advanced reddening seem consistent with the phenomenon of red crown top of some sweetgum trees and may have similar mechanism.
基金The National Institutes of Health, USA, No. 5K23RR02206
文摘A structured literature review was performed to detail the frequency and etiology of chronic liver disease (CLD) in Aboriginal North Americans. CLD affects Aboriginal North Americans disproportionately and is now one of the most common causes of death. Alcoholic liver disease is the leading etiology of CLD, but viral hepatitis, particularly hepatitis C, is an important and growing cause of CLD. High rates of autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) are reported in regions of coastal British Columbia and southeastern Alaska. Non-alcoholic liver disease is a common, but understudied, cause of CLD. Future research should monitor the incidence and etiology of CLD and should be geographically inclusive. In addition, more research is needed on the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in this population.
基金supported by the project of comprehensive evaluation of polar areas on global and regional climate changes(CHINARE2015-04-04)the National Natural Science Foundation of China[grant number 41406027]
文摘With global warming and declining Arctic sea ice area in autumn observed by satellites since 1979, anomalous cold snaps in recent winters have affected large parts of North America, Europe, and East Asia. In January 2015, North America suffered extremely cold and heavy snowfall events. As revealed in this paper, the NCEP reanalysis data show that the temperature decreased significantly in January 2015 in North America, including the air temperature in the troposphere and the surface air temperature. Moreover, snow cover increased obviously in January 2015 in North America, while there was a significant negative anomaly of geopotential height. The wind formed the anomalous pattern, which favored cold currents blowing to the North American continent from the polar region, and bringing plenty of water vapor. Our results suggest that the anomalous north wind and decreasing westerly jet stream, which allowed cold and moist air to easily penetrate the North American continent from the Arctic, was one of the main reasons for the extremely cold and heavysnow winter of 2015 in North America.
基金provided by the NOAA Fishenes Service, MassFisherman's Partnership+1 种基金Northeast Consortiumthe Pew Institute for Ocean Science
文摘The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (southern Gulf of Maine, northwest Atlantic) is partially overlapped by the Western Gulf of Maine Closure Area (WGMCA). This is a region in which mobile, bottom-disturbing fishing gear has been banned by the New England Fishery Management Council to facilitate the rebuilding of depleted gronndfish populations. We assessed the effects and effectiveness of the WGMCA on groundfish assemblages using habitat-stratified (gravel, sand, mixed benthic habitats) sampling by means of a commercial trawler, inside and outside of the WGMCA. Sampling occurred over three mouth-long sampling periods in 2004-2005, two during the spring seasons and one during the fall season. A total of 18 species were analyzed for protection effects. After controlling for substratum, location and sampling season, eight groundfish species exhibited higher mean proportional abundance inside than outside the WGMCA while two were proportionally more abundant on average outside of the closure. Four species had higher mean proportional biomasses on average inside the closure and three outside. We conclude that the WGMCA may be achieving its goal of rebuilding abundance and biomass for some commercially targeted groundfishes but not all. This study, six to seven years post-closure establishment, reveals fine-scale spatial and taxonomic complexity which will require a very different monitoring protocol than the one currently in place if adaptive management is to be successful in the region [Current Zoology 56 (1): 134-143, 2010].
基金supported by the Program for New Century Excellent Talents in University (NCET-06-0597)the project of Transformation and Expansion of Achievement of Agricultural Science and Technology in Tianjin, China (0604020)
文摘In this study,we investigated the effects of low salinity(26 and 21) on the prophenoloxidase(proPO) system and related defence parameters in the shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei.The results showed that low salinity induced a significant increase of dopamine(DA) concentration in haemolymph at 6 h of the experiment;on the other hand,total haemocyte count(THC),differential haemocyte count(DHC) and PO activity decreased over time to the lowest level at 24 h and remained low thereafter.Serine Protease(SP) and Proteinase Inhibitor(PI) activity in the two lower salinity treatments decreased to the lowest level at 12 and 24 h,respectively,and both recovered to the control level at 72 h.In contrast,α2-macroglobulin(α2M) activity in the two lower salinity treatments peaked at 24 h and then decreased to the control level at 72 h.Therefore,it may be concluded that stress-induced DA plays an important temporary role in neurotransmission and causes immune response in L.vannamei in adapting to salinity changes.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.30871928,31272673)the Special Fund for Agro-Scientific Research of Public Interest(No.201003020)the High Level Talent Project of Guangdong Province Universities and Colleges Pearl River Scholar(GDUPS)(No.2011)
文摘To investigate the influence of sodium to potassium (Na/IO ratios on the growth performance and physiological response of the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vananmei), various concentrations of KC1 were added to low-salinity well water (salinity 4) in an 8-week culture trial. Six treatments with NWK ratios of 60:1, 42:1, 33:1, 23:1, 17:1, and 14:1 were replicated in triplicate. The highest weight-gain rate (3 506±48)% and survival rate (89.38±0.88)% was observed in well water with Na/K ratios of 23:1 and 42:1, respectively, while the feed conversion ratio (1.02~0.01), oxygen consumption, and ammonia-N excretion rate was the lowest in the medium with a Na/K ratio of 23:1. Gill Na+-K+-ATPase activity, as an indicator of osmoregulation, peaked in the treatment where the Na/K ratio was 17:1. The total hemocyte count, respiratory burst, and immune-related enzyme activities (ALP, LSZ, PO, and SOD) ofL. vananmei were affected significantly by Na/K ratios (P〈0.05). After challenged with Vibrio harveyi, the cumulative mortality of shrimp reared in a Na/K ratio of 23:1 (30±14.14)% was significantly lower than the control (75~7.07)%. In conclusion, the addition of K+ to low-salinity well water in L. vannamei cultures is feasible. Na/K ratios ranging from 23:1 to 33:1 might improve survival and growth. Immunity and disease resistance are also closely related to the Na/K ratio of the low-salinity well water. The findings may contribute to the development of more efficient K^+ remediation strategies for L. vananmei culture in low-salinity well water.
文摘The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationships of e-service quality dimensions with overall internet banking service quality, and its effect on customer satisfaction in the USA banking industry. The proposed instrument dimensions are identified based on a questionnaire survey conducted in the US. Based on an extensive review of literature, this paper proposed eight dimensions for measuring overall internet banking service quality and its subsequent effect on customer satisfaction. Also, this research uses American internet banking users as survey targets for its empirical studies. The results show significant relationships among the e-service quality dimensions (efficiency, fulfillment, system availability, privacy, assurance/trust, site aesthetics, responsiveness, and contact), overall internet banking service quality, and customer satisfaction. Little attention has been given in the literature to understanding of the e-service quality dimensions that influence overall internet banking service quality and the specific outcome of customer satisfaction. This paper empirically examines the relationships among the eight e-service quality dimensions, overall internet banking service quality, and customer satisfaction. The findings are important to enable bank managers to have a better understanding of the key e-service quality dimensions of internet banking that affect customer satisfaction. The primary limitations of this study are the scope and size of its sample.
文摘There has been a significant decline in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality amidst pervasive advances in care, including percutane- ous revascularization, mechanical circulatory support, and transcatheter valvular therapies. While advancing therapies may add significant longevity, they also bring about new end-of-life decision-making challenges for patients and their families who also must weigh the advan- tages of reduced mortality to the possibility of longer lives consisting of high morbidity, frailty, pain, and poor quality of living. Advance care entails options of withholding or withdrawing therapies, and has become a familiar part of cardiovascular care for older patients in Western countries. However, as advanced cardiovascular practices extend to developing countries, the interrelated concept of advance care is rarely straight forward as it is affected by local cultural traditions and mores, and can lead to very different inferences and use. This paper discusses the concepts of advance care planning, surrogate decision-making, orders for resuscitation and futility in patients with cardiac dis- ease with comparisons of West to East, focusing particularly on the United States versus India.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China under the grant number 40675060, 2006AA09Z151 program of the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China, and GYHY200706031 program of China Meteorological Administration.
文摘The objective of this study is to examine the use of the conditional probability function(CPF) and nonparametric regression(NPR) to identify the relationship between wind direction and concentration of PM2.5(particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than or equal to 2.5 μm). Twenty four-hour integrated PM2.5 mass and species concentrations were measured at the St. Louis-Midwest Supersite in East St. Louis,Illinois,USA in the periods of 22-28 June 2001,7-13 November 2001,and 19-25 March 2002. Wind directions were measured on site. The concentrations of 15 elements and ions,i.e. Al,As,Cd,Cr,Cu,Fe,Mn,Ni,Pb,Se,Zn,OC,EC,SO4,and NO3 were calculated using the CPF and NPR. The comparison between the results obtained from the CPF and NPR demonstrated that they both agreed well with the locations of the known local point sources. The CPF was simpler and easier to calculate than NPR. In contrast,NPR provided PM2.5 concentrations but with some uncertainties. This study indicates that both methods can be utilized to promote the source apportionment study of ambient PM2.5.
文摘In contrast with the large number of theatrical performances and filmic versions for television, both British and American, based on the play The Importance of Being Earnest (1975) by Oscar Wilde, there have only been, so far, three films made for the cinema. Although one of them was made in the United States by the American director Kurt Baker in 1992, this paper will address only the two English versions, chronologically separated by a 50-year time span. It will focus on the cinematic adaptations made by English directors Anthony Asquith and Oliver Parker, the former in 1952 and the latter in 2002. Based on the same play, this comparative approach may throw some light on the evolution of cinematographic conditions and techniques as well as relate them to the expectations of audiences in the mid 20th century and at the beginning of the 21st century.
文摘There is a need for cost-efficient methods in consumer research. Existing qualitative methods are expensive to conduct. This paper aims to improve the focus group method. The objective was to improve focus groups with different aims: shorter time conducting interviews, interview greater number of respondents, deliver results faster than traditionally analysis of data, and lower total cost. CurroCus groups of 15-45 minutes duration were tested in five different experiments, including 70 to 160 respondents in groups of 7-11 respondents. The name of the new method is formed from the word "Curro" in Latin that means speed in English, and "Cus" that is the last syllable of the word "focus", thereby forming a new word: CurroCus~ on the method. The results from testing of the CurroCus~ group method at different cases showed that trained moderators and observers could collect relevant responses in a given time for each group. It was possible to process a number of 6 to 10 respondents for each group. By conducting several successive groups, saturation of information was reached after an adequate number of CurroCus~ groups. Therefore, the total number of respondents can be optimized and results can be more precise, with reduced risk of inaccuracy. At the same time, the cost for each case can be lowered substantially, in our cases to approximately 1/10 of a traditional focus group cost. The role (skills) of the moderator is important. A disadvantage is the risk that some of the respondents are not able to express their thoughts in due time when time is limited. There is a need for more research on all parts of the CurroCus group process.
文摘This research developed the technology which united ISO-GUM (International Organization of Standard-Guide to Express of Uncertainty in Measurement) and QE (Quality Engineer) strategically and employed both feature efficiently. Although to tow technology of purpose use is same, each has future. The purpose is scheduled to improve the accuracy as a result of the clinical examinations. The result of research was used for diagnosis by equivalent Quality Control (eqQC) of the same level when and where, that are needed for broader-based medical system of the time of IT-era. Since National Institute of Standard and Technology (NIST) is recommend use of complicated operation by ISO-GUM for uniting, realization required the newest high quality computer technology. The algorithm of the complexity system of operation is that Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT) and Multi-variance Analysis (MA) are needed in Fig. 4. The main new improving points are changed of ambiguous expression method of data, and the pursuit which the cause of worsens accuracy put into data. All data with an assurance reported the final result for patient or donor. Medical laboratory quality system service is offered essential in the laboratory to be correct result for health care by Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) useful ISO 15189. Quality Assurance (QA) is achieved though system reliability.
文摘The Song Dynasty painting "realm without me" (i.e. the beauty to nature, not to the individual bit emotional, aesthetic situation calmly silently illuminates), it is a peak China painting history, and after the Yuan Dynasty painting "realm" of the United States, constitutes the entire China the history of painting aesthetics of all. This "selflessness" beauty at the beginning did not possess, it is with the development of social economy, politics, literature and art thoughts and slowly spread. This paper will be of the Song Dynasty painting "selflessness" beauty, do a simple analysis, analysis of the seed to the development to the maturity of the aesthetic course.
文摘Generally, criticism on popular music is of both political and artistic nature. This paper is intended to investigate modem Chinese popular music in the artistic dimension. On one hand, through analysis and differentiation in light of the two persistent (and biased) conceptions, it is necessary to acknowledge the inevitability of popular music as an art. On the other hand, this paper aims to analyze specifically the "voice" in popular music in hope of presenting its unique aesthetic characteristics. Above all, a more comprehensive view and more diverse approaches are needed in the study of popular music
基金This essay is the initial result of "The study on the basic issues and critical pattern in contemporary aesthetics", a major project supported by National Social Science Foundation (Project Number:15ZDB023) "The study on the contemporary wester neural aesthetics' impact on the development of aesthetics in China", a normal project supported by National Social Science Foundation (Project Number:15BZW022) "Gorz ecological Marxist theory's implications for contemporary China", a project entrusted by Central Compilation & Translation Bureau (Project Number: 15QWT26).
文摘Contemporary Chinese scholars proposed that China should construct modem Chinese aesthetic discourse system, therefore, we should attach great importance to China's own aesthetic development in 20th century and learn experience from it. There are four dimensions of learning. First, we should seek the origin of methods from Marxism. Second, the study should deeply rooted in Chinese traditional culture. Third, we should refer to ancient and modem Western aesthetic theories. Last but not the least, all the scholars should be encouraged to express their views freely and equally. The four dimensions, which plays an important role in constructing China's modem discourse of aesthetics, derived from the conclusion and experience of China's modem aesthetic development in 20th century.
文摘Both intake volumetric flow and through-screen velocity (the velocity of water as it passes through the screen) are important variables affecting fish impingement at industrial water intake structures including those at power plants. However, there are limited data available on quantitative assessments of impingement following changes in power plant operation such as reduced volumetric flow and intake velocity. Impingement studies were conducted at Bay Shore Power Plant in 2005-2006 (baseline) and again in 2013-2014 following fish protection mitigation which included reduced intake volumetric flows (from 33.5 m^3·s^-1 to 9.1 cm·s^-1), a reduced through-screen velocity (from approximately 79.2 cm·s^-1 to 11.6 cm·s^-1), modified traveling screens and installation of a fish-return system to gently and quickly remove any fish that were impinged back into the waterbody. A comparison of baseline and post-mitigation results suggested that with this mitigation in place, impingement reductions can exceed 90% for robust dominant fish species in the area.
文摘In recent years, the "China Dream" has become a popular topic in China's Mainland. To tell the stories of the "Chinese Dream" from different aspect in the field of literary and artistic creation have emerged as a significant phenomenon. To some extent, these texts can be regarded as national allegory. This paper will take the film American Dreams in China as a case, to provide some thoughts on the value dimensions for the construction of the "Chinese Dreams".
基金supported by the Southwest Florida Water Management District
文摘Residence time is an important indicator for river environmental management.In this paper,a 3D hydrodynamic model has been successfully applied to Little Manatee River to characterize the mixing and transport process and residence time.The model employs horizontal curvilinear orthogonal grids to represent the complex river system that consists of branches and bayous.The model has been satisfactorily calibrated and verified by using two continuous data sets.The data sets consist of hourly observations of all forcing boundaries,including freshwater inputs,tides,winds,salinity and temperatures at bay boundary,and air temperatures for model simulations.The data sets also consist of hourly observations of water levels,salinity,and temperature at several river stations.The calibrated and verified hydrodynamic model was used to predict residence time in the Little Manatee River.Under the minimum flow of 0.312 m3/s,the pulse residence time(PRT) is 108 days.Model simulations were also conducted for 17 flow scenarios.Empirical regression equations have been satisfactorily derived to correlate PRT to freshwater inflow.Correlation coefficient R2 is 0.982 for PRT.