A more accurate analysis method on working modes is proposed by considering the winding terminal voltage and the eondueting power device as state parameters. For the three-phase hybrid excitation doubly salient machi...A more accurate analysis method on working modes is proposed by considering the winding terminal voltage and the eondueting power device as state parameters. For the three-phase hybrid excitation doubly salient machine (HEDSM) motor and its three-phase full-bridge inverter, in the proposed analytical method, all possible working modes are generally listed. Then, with the H_PWM-L_ON control strategy, the working modes are detailed with eorresponding equivalent circuits. Experimental results verify the robustness of the analysis.展开更多
This survey investigated the relationship between executive compensation and the financial performance of companies. It is hypothesized that a company can utilize its pay system to direct executives' efforts toward i...This survey investigated the relationship between executive compensation and the financial performance of companies. It is hypothesized that a company can utilize its pay system to direct executives' efforts toward its strategic business objectives, thus contributing to higher levels of corporate financial performance. The survey data consisted of a secondary and non-probabilistic sample of 44 Brazilian industrial companies. In order to operationalize the independent remuneration variable, the authors used average monthly salary, average variable salary, and three indices that were created for this survey: benefits, career, and development. These indices measure the access to benefits, mechanisms for stimulating and supporting careers, and mechanisms to encourage education and professional development that companies offer to their directors, vice presidents, and chief executive officers (CEOs), who are referred to in this paper by the term "executive". The remuneration data are from fiscal year 2006. In order to operationalize the financial performance variable, two accounting indicators were used: sales growth and return on equity (ROE) for fiscal years 2006 and 2007. The size of the companies was used as a control variable. The results of a multiple regression analysis do not support the hypothesis that there is a positive and significant relationship between executive compensation and corporate financial performance.展开更多
Consequences of decommissioning oil fields on artisanal fishing activities are still little known in the literature. This paper is intended to shed some light on a process of dismantling and sinking of oil and gas str...Consequences of decommissioning oil fields on artisanal fishing activities are still little known in the literature. This paper is intended to shed some light on a process of dismantling and sinking of oil and gas structures in shallow waters, with severe disturbing impacts on low income artisanal fishing activities. From a socio-economic perspective, the relationship of oil industry with local communities is described, with the main perceived problems pointed out in local fishermen leadership perspective. The notions of "damages" and "mitigation" used by the oil industry are discussed in connection to the expansion and dismantling of oil installations during the past 20 yrs. A comparative view of oil fields decommissioning in Europe and Brazil during the late 1990s suggests the need to review transparency and social commitment standards which have been far less prominent in this Brazilian case. The authors believe that the Brazilian oil industry has acquired a social and environmental debt towards the whole society, as far as it has been unable to establish a clear and effective process for decommissioning their oil installations within the artisanal fishing areas of the Todosos Santos Bay. Furthermore, the discussion of fair and specific compensations has been avoided, which otherwise would be instrumental to regain local economic conditions found among fishermen just few decades ago.展开更多
Objective: The aim of our study was to investigate the feasibility and safety of thoracoscopic internal mammary lymphadenectomy as a method to refine and thereby improve nodal staging in breast cancer. Methods: Duri...Objective: The aim of our study was to investigate the feasibility and safety of thoracoscopic internal mammary lymphadenectomy as a method to refine and thereby improve nodal staging in breast cancer. Methods: During the period from June 2004 to May 2007, 50 patients with operable breast cancer underwent modified radical mastectomy (MRM) or breast conserving surgery (BCS), followed by thoracoscopic internal mammary lymphadenectomy, using 3 ports through the skin incision of the MRM or the BCS. Metal clips were used to mark precise site of lymphadenectomy. Results: of total number of 50 patients, the mean age of patients was 44 years (range, 27-60 years). 40 (80%) had medio-central tumor, 10 (20%) had lateral tumor. 35 (70%) had clinically involved axillary nodes. 16 out of 50 patients received neo-adjuvant CTH. 44 patients underwent MRM and 6 patients underwent BCS. No intra-operative complications occurred. Atelectasis was the only postoperative complication that was encountered, which occurred in 12 cases, and was treated conservatively. The average chest drainage period was 1.2 day (range, 1-2 days). The total number of IMN metastasis was 18 patients (36%). The risk of IMN metastasis was higher; in younger patients (P = 0.03), in medio-central tumors (P = 0.03), in bigger tumors (P = 0.05), with heavier metastasis of axillary LNs (P = 0.001). But a correlation with the histological pattern of the lry tumor didn't exist (P = 1). Knowing the IMN status helped in proper staging of patients, 7 patients showed evident stage migration after adding the IMN analysis to that of primary tumor and axillary LN. During the follow up period (the median, 22 months; range, 7 to 42 months), no patient had pleural dissemination or port-site metastasis. Conclusion: Thoracoscopic IMN lymphadenectomy is a safe procedure, which can be done serious additional complications or cosmetic compromise. And allow proper nodal staging, which allow proper treatment planning.展开更多
This paper offers a study of J.L.Lagrange's research on history of mathematics,aiming to clarify Lagrange's intention in carrying out historical work.To this end,I first document how Lagrange worked with and e...This paper offers a study of J.L.Lagrange's research on history of mathematics,aiming to clarify Lagrange's intention in carrying out historical work.To this end,I first document how Lagrange worked with and exerted his influence on other scholars in the translation and diffusion of ancient Greek texts.Second,investigating Lagrange's style in doing and writing history of mathematics,this paper takes a new perspective and elucidates his motivation in these activities.In particular,it focuses on Lagrange's presentation of the history of calculus while he was teaching analysis at the Ecole Polytechnique(1795-1799)so as to clarify the function of history in Lagrange's mathematical works.My thesis is that Lagrange's intention in examining the different methods employed by his predecessors was to find inspiration and useful contents in his search for the proper approach to mathematical problems.I thus argue in this paper that history served as a guide or methodology for Lagrange's mathematics.Meanwhile,through an analysis of his historical writing,this paper points to four epistemological values according to which Lagrange judged various historical methods of differential calculus:generality,simplicity,clarity,and rigor.Lagrange's move to rigorize analysis was connected to his interest in and research of Greek texts;he was attempting to introduce the rigor of the ancient Greeks'demonstration in his works of analysis.展开更多
Histological study on the ontogeny of the lymphoid organs, kidney, thymus and spleen of Japanese flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus, from hatching to 40 d was carried out. The pronephric kidney duct appeared early in ha...Histological study on the ontogeny of the lymphoid organs, kidney, thymus and spleen of Japanese flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus, from hatching to 40 d was carried out. The pronephric kidney duct appeared early in hatching although the primordial haemopoietic stem cells were observed within a week after hatching. The spleen was first seen after 8 d of hatching. The thymus appeared after 15 d, situated near the pronephric kidney. Small lymphoid cells appeared during the later phase of the post-larval stage in the sequence of thymus, kidney and spleen. During the 40 d of observations, there were no distinct inner or outer zones in thymus and no red or white pulp in spleen. These results suggest that the nonspecific defense immune system plays a very important role in the early larval stage of Japanese flounder.展开更多
This paper aims to establish a methodological frame work and its validation as a response to the need of a demand management tool in the face of recurring comparisons of building revitalization or retrofits. As the in...This paper aims to establish a methodological frame work and its validation as a response to the need of a demand management tool in the face of recurring comparisons of building revitalization or retrofits. As the investment and implementation actions improve and the social economic criteria are delimited by regulatory frameworks, it is extremely necessary to monitor previous performances and further prospects, regarding projects, it is necessary to measure the extent of which efforts have been meeting regulatory requirements and aiming to contribute with sustainable development. In this context, the use of indicators has been a major management tool.展开更多
The use of the Albanian geothermal springs and waters, for their curative effects (Natural SPA) dates back centuries, since the time of the Roman Empire, while their first modern use started only in 1937. Unfortunat...The use of the Albanian geothermal springs and waters, for their curative effects (Natural SPA) dates back centuries, since the time of the Roman Empire, while their first modern use started only in 1937. Unfortunately they had not been used for its energetic values yet. The temperature of the water is above 60 ~C and the flow above 16 L/s, thus direct utilization is possible, in particular for space heating. Three-dimensional temperature field calculations and engineering calculations on a heating system with heat exchangers are presented here. The results show that the water temperature is expected to be stable and considerably higher temperature is expected through deep well drilling. The University's Campus of Tirana is composed of 29 buildings, which are partially heated through a coal heater. The installed capacity is 2,558 kW while the coal consumption is about 920 kg/h. The University's Campus of Tirana is one of the most important areas and with the highest density of population in Tirana, so it is the best area to show the heat exchanger efficiency. The economic analyses prove that the borehole heat exchangers are more convenient than the coal heating systems.展开更多
This research analyzes the growth impacts promoted by C class in the process of the freezing of the Brazilian industry and increased imports. This emerging market, called class C, which is incorporated in part by the ...This research analyzes the growth impacts promoted by C class in the process of the freezing of the Brazilian industry and increased imports. This emerging market, called class C, which is incorporated in part by the low-income segment, presents distinct characteristics and needs and for this precise reason eventually burdens the short-term production of Brazilian companies, which feel the need to opt for the importation of basic commodities, manufactured, and semi-manufactured goods, in order to maintain a market share and return on their investments. Although this fact is actually part of a trend of global economic transformation, here it is due to a number of irregular actions taken by the Brazilian government facing a short-term political need. Stemming from quantitative researches and qualitative data, this paper sought to learn more about the consumers' profile and draw up some recommendations for the organizations, in order to be better prepared to face this new demand. This paper also sought to know the actions already undertaken by a large cosmetics company, parts of whose products aim at class C.展开更多
Some unsaturated soils may undergo volumetric changes when submitted to an increase in its water content or are inundated under applied loads. This behavior is related to the volumetric instability when the water cont...Some unsaturated soils may undergo volumetric changes when submitted to an increase in its water content or are inundated under applied loads. This behavior is related to the volumetric instability when the water content is changed. Natural collapsible soils in Brazil are generally found in alluvial, colluvial and residual soils. There are known occurrences of natural collapsible soils in many states of Brasil. In the last two decades, many public projects have been developed in areas where the occurrence of collapsible soils has been associated to geotechnical problems. The present paper devoted to study the collapsible soils in the state of Pernambuco which has been associated with large engineering projects such as housing and irrigation canals. The geotechnical investigation program included test with a field apparatus, called Expanso-colapsometer, which allows the measurement of the field settlements of a small 0.10 m of diameter plate inserted at any depth inside an auger boring hole. Reconnaissance borings with SPT (standard penetration test), investigation pits with undisturbed block sampling and disturbed samples for laboratory tests were also made in order to assess the type and characteristics of the soil. Field tests used the Expanso-colapsometer to measure the settlement of the soil in selected depths under controlled flooding. Laboratory work included double and standard oedometer tests with a controlled rate of water inflow of 1.0 mL/s. It was found that the volume change of the soils when flooded depends on their natural stress state (vertical stress, suction head and structure of soil).展开更多
Rapid technological advances in chicken processing in plants around the world have meant that different techniques are being employed regarding the slaughter's flow process. This paper aimed to compare and contrast s...Rapid technological advances in chicken processing in plants around the world have meant that different techniques are being employed regarding the slaughter's flow process. This paper aimed to compare and contrast systems and practices in two large slaughterhouses--one in UK and the other in Brazil. Annotated observations were made during inspection visits to chicken slaughterhouses in the two countries between 2014 and 2016. Whilst there were similarities in the two systems, there are also clear differences. The Brazilian case is evidently adapted for a more tropical condition, rather than the temperate one in UK. The handling practices of birds used during transportation, waiting, stunning as well as pre-cooling differ in techniques employed and consequently likely their efficiencies. In UK, the practices are more geared towards water and energy saving. The difference in market conditions and the length of the respective supply chains also determine the type of primary packaging used in final products. Both countries adhere to similar rulings applied to slaughterhouses. However, in the Brazilian case, it tended to comply with mainly external market demands. In conclusion, managers in the Brazilian poultry system could consider looking into adopting some of the practices used in UK, such as cage/crate dimension which reduce bird's lesions and bruises; the use of stunning by modified atmosphere and pre-cooling for resource efficiency reasons and improvement in animal welfare. Finally, when distances between sites of production and consumption are great such as in Brazil, the use of modified atmosphere technology could be also further explored to ensure better quality of the final product.展开更多
According to Brazilian reports of large trucks accidents on Federal Highway, fatigue and speeding are the major contributors to those accidents in which drivers are trying to meet short delivery deadlines for long hau...According to Brazilian reports of large trucks accidents on Federal Highway, fatigue and speeding are the major contributors to those accidents in which drivers are trying to meet short delivery deadlines for long hauls. A new federal law has been approved to limit truck drivers' working times, including maximum continuous driving time and maximum daily and weekly on-duty time. We present a study that aims at analyzing whether the existing resting areas on federal highways have sufficient capacity to meet current and future demand for truck stops. We have established the following method: In the first step, we review and study different models found in the literature and evaluate their potential application to Brazilian conditions; In the next step, we develop our own model and, finally, validate it using data from BR-101 Federal Highway, in Santa Catarina State. Tests made using part of collected data (which were subjected to statistical treatment) showed satisfactory results, indicating that the demand behavior was consistent with that observed in the field and the answers provided by truck drivers in the interviews. The research has yet to complete processing all data and it also must be repeated in other regions with different characteristics.展开更多
This paper attempts to unfold certain socio-economic characteristics of Albanian undocumented or "irregular" migrants returning from EU member states. The idea emerged from an IOM research followed by a study conduc...This paper attempts to unfold certain socio-economic characteristics of Albanian undocumented or "irregular" migrants returning from EU member states. The idea emerged from an IOM research followed by a study conducted two years ago (2007-2008) on this particular Albanian migratory development. The paper aims to contribute to the early chapters of a future potential empirical research, thus stimulating theoretical discourses towards defining the socio-economic profile of Albanian returned migrants. The research among Albanian undocumented migrants returned from Greece, the UK, etc., indicates that many of the above migrants were found to be recidivists, crossing borders frequently and undocumented. Greece being the main destination and simultaneously (deporting) country, leads to the assumption that it is the main destination country for undocumented migrants. The number of Albanian returnees from Greece reaches its peak, notably in April and September, with the start of seasonal works. The number of returned Albanian minors invoke problematics that demand for appropriate attention and assistance during the procedures of readmission (return, handover by the returning authorities, readmission by Albanian authorities etc.). With regard to causes of undocumented migration, one might identify a slight tendency among undocumented young migrants, to qualify poverty as the main reason rather than lack of working opportunities as Albanian middle age migrants would argue.展开更多
The development of measurement geometry for medical X-ray computed tomography (CT) scanners was carried out from the first to the fourth-generation. This concept has also been applied for imaging of industrial proce...The development of measurement geometry for medical X-ray computed tomography (CT) scanners was carried out from the first to the fourth-generation. This concept has also been applied for imaging of industrial processes such as pipe flows or for improving design, operation, optimization and troubleshooting. Nowadays, gamma CT permits to visualize failure equipment points in three-dimensional analysis and in sections of chemical and petrochemical industries. The aim of this work is the development of the mechanical system on a third-generation industrial CT scanner to analyze laboratorial process columns which perform highly efficient separation, turning the ^6oCo, ^75Se, ^137Cs and/or ^192Ir sealed gamma-ray source(s) and the NaI(Tl) multidetector array. It also has a translation movement along the column axis to obtain as many slices of the process flow as needed. The mechanical assembly for this third-generation industrial CT scanner is comprised by strength and rigidity structural frame in stainless and carbon steels, rotating table, source shield and collimator with pneumatic exposure system, spur gear system, translator, rotary stage, drives and stepper motors. The use of suitable spur gears has given a good repeatability and high accuracy in the degree of veracity. The data acquisition boards, mechanical control interfaces, software for movement control and image reconstruction were specially development. A multiphase phantom capable to be setting with solid, liquid and gas was testing. The scanner was setting for 90 views and 19 projections for each detector totalizing 11,970 projections. Experiments to determine the linear attenuation coefficients of the phantom were carried out which applied the Lambert-Beer principle. Results showed that it was possible to distinguish between the phases even the polymethylmethacrylate and the water have very similar density and linear attenuation coefficients. It was established that the newly developed third-generation fan-beam arrangement gamma scanner unit has a good spatial resolution acceptable given the size of the used phantom in this study. The tomografic reconstruction algorithm in used 60 ~ 60 pixels images was the Alternative Minimization (AM) technique and was implemented in MATLAB and VB platforms. The mechanical system presented a good performance in terms of strength, rigidity, accuracy and repeatability with great potential to be used for education or program which dedicated to training chemical and petrochemical industry professionals and for industrial process optimization in Brazil.展开更多
This paper explores the status of Jerusalem as viewed by Edward Said in his political works particularly in his article "The Current Status of Jerusalem" written in 1995 and published posthumously in 2011 in Jerusal...This paper explores the status of Jerusalem as viewed by Edward Said in his political works particularly in his article "The Current Status of Jerusalem" written in 1995 and published posthumously in 2011 in Jerusalem Quarterly, the only Arab journal that focuses exclusively on the city of Jerusalem's history, political status, and future. In his article, Said raises various issues regarding Jerusalem and the Palestinian-Israeli peace process. The article depicts Israel's policy of Judaizing Jerusalem and its attempts to make Jerusalem its eternal capital. Said tries to expose the Israeli meretricious strategies regarding Jerusalem which begin by projecting an image of what it wants the world to believe and then translating that false image into reality. Said also underscores the fact that both Palestinians and the pan-Arab nation have failed to counteract the Israeli policy of selling to the world the notion of Jerusalem belonging exclusively to Israel, a failure that has enabled Israel to tighten its grip on the Holy City and to curb the Palestinians', the Arabs' and the Muslims' attempts to counterattack on the level of media information. In Said's view, the only hope for the future is a decent and fair coexistence between the two peoples based upon equality and self-determination. For him, the separation between the Palestinians and the Israelis since 1948 has not led to successful outcomes; a one state---rather than a binational-state solution is, therefore, the more possible way of resolving the Arab-Israeli conflict.展开更多
To investigate Max Weber’s concept of bureaucracy and its relevance to Pakistan’s civil service, this study explains the system of governance followed in different nations, its function, and bureaucratic formulation...To investigate Max Weber’s concept of bureaucracy and its relevance to Pakistan’s civil service, this study explains the system of governance followed in different nations, its function, and bureaucratic formulations in the well-managed and administered state. The paper analyzes reasons for the poor performance of Pakistani public service provision. International development doctrines pertaining to governance are based on accountable to the governments and effective bureaucracy. This study explores the formation of the Pakistani state and civil service and its role in the implementation of government policies. Irrespective of the system of governance followed across different nations, the presence, and functioning of a bureaucratic set-up is crucial to manage and administer the state. However, in Pakistan there has been an egregious failure of the bureaucratic set-up to achieve this vision. This study explores the reasons why based on Weberian sociological theory affirming that the main characteristic of bureaucracy is espirit de corps, doing things for the good of the institution (i.e., civil service) even if goes against the public interest. This study analyzes such orientation in the context of a major developing state, Pakistan. The essential principal function of bureaucracy is to honestly and sincerely implement the government policies on behalf of the people. The government provides representation of the national interest, mainly when democratically elected, while the bureaucracy provides skills and know-how; the latter is liable to the former, but often not directly to the public. Thus, bureaucrats are usually known as “civil servants”, who provide continuity in governance and daily life, despite the vagaries of changes in government. This is a qualitative research entirely based on literature survey from library data collected from books and articles.展开更多
Gweru Women AIDS Prevention Association (GWAPA) is an organization that works with commercial sex-workers in the Midlands Province to try and stymie the tide of HIV/AIDS. The organization premises its activities upo...Gweru Women AIDS Prevention Association (GWAPA) is an organization that works with commercial sex-workers in the Midlands Province to try and stymie the tide of HIV/AIDS. The organization premises its activities upon the belief that sex workers are forced into prostitution by poverty and thus offers them alternative livelihood strategies such as piggery projects, chicken rearing, and vegetable vending projects as well as seed money with which to start flea market projects. The organization also runs a condom promotion project, a legal literacy project, and an advocacy project, all in a bid to empower the sex workers cognitively. The study was carried out between April and October 2008, using bar-based observations, interviews, focus group discussions, and documentary evidence. The study found participation to have been more of a fallacy in as far as programming depended more on the whims of donor funders than the actual needs of programme beneficiaries. In the top-down manner that is typical of development communication, the organization would engage donors and secure funding for certain projects which they would then try to convince the sex workers to take up, with mixed results. The research also found limited evidence of real empowerment of beneficiaries in the long run, with the sex workers themselves insisting that the "piece-meal" efforts of the organization were not sustainable enough to induce them to abandon sex work altogether. The study did, however, find that the organization and its programming had actually managed to score notable success in promoting safer sex within the context of prostitution, albeit without eradicating sex work altogether.展开更多
In a recent historical process of economic stabilization and of social policies focused on the disadvantaged, major changes in the composition of the Brazilian social pyramid are happening. Driven by the increase of e...In a recent historical process of economic stabilization and of social policies focused on the disadvantaged, major changes in the composition of the Brazilian social pyramid are happening. Driven by the increase of employment and income, in conditions of low inflation and abundant credit, millions of Brazilians have increased in recent years their purchasing power and started to acquire their own home and car--gaudiest symbols of joining the middle class--as well as a wide range of consumer goods. It appears that this set of transformations profoundly altered the perceptions and strategies of social mobility. So this phenomenon is being called the shaping of the new Brazilian middle class. The fact is that there is a group growing, sustained mainly by a decrease in income inequality. In this study, we attempted to draw a clear overview and some disagreements about the emergence of a new Brazilian middle class. On the topic of the emergence of a new Brazilian middle class, one can say that it is not a completely true fact, and that there was actually an expansion of the income of families who still harbor extreme ties with the working classes and why not, popular classes. What to some scholars would be the emergence of a new working class, whose average income is approaching the middle income of what is considered as the lower middle class?展开更多
文摘A more accurate analysis method on working modes is proposed by considering the winding terminal voltage and the eondueting power device as state parameters. For the three-phase hybrid excitation doubly salient machine (HEDSM) motor and its three-phase full-bridge inverter, in the proposed analytical method, all possible working modes are generally listed. Then, with the H_PWM-L_ON control strategy, the working modes are detailed with eorresponding equivalent circuits. Experimental results verify the robustness of the analysis.
文摘This survey investigated the relationship between executive compensation and the financial performance of companies. It is hypothesized that a company can utilize its pay system to direct executives' efforts toward its strategic business objectives, thus contributing to higher levels of corporate financial performance. The survey data consisted of a secondary and non-probabilistic sample of 44 Brazilian industrial companies. In order to operationalize the independent remuneration variable, the authors used average monthly salary, average variable salary, and three indices that were created for this survey: benefits, career, and development. These indices measure the access to benefits, mechanisms for stimulating and supporting careers, and mechanisms to encourage education and professional development that companies offer to their directors, vice presidents, and chief executive officers (CEOs), who are referred to in this paper by the term "executive". The remuneration data are from fiscal year 2006. In order to operationalize the financial performance variable, two accounting indicators were used: sales growth and return on equity (ROE) for fiscal years 2006 and 2007. The size of the companies was used as a control variable. The results of a multiple regression analysis do not support the hypothesis that there is a positive and significant relationship between executive compensation and corporate financial performance.
文摘Consequences of decommissioning oil fields on artisanal fishing activities are still little known in the literature. This paper is intended to shed some light on a process of dismantling and sinking of oil and gas structures in shallow waters, with severe disturbing impacts on low income artisanal fishing activities. From a socio-economic perspective, the relationship of oil industry with local communities is described, with the main perceived problems pointed out in local fishermen leadership perspective. The notions of "damages" and "mitigation" used by the oil industry are discussed in connection to the expansion and dismantling of oil installations during the past 20 yrs. A comparative view of oil fields decommissioning in Europe and Brazil during the late 1990s suggests the need to review transparency and social commitment standards which have been far less prominent in this Brazilian case. The authors believe that the Brazilian oil industry has acquired a social and environmental debt towards the whole society, as far as it has been unable to establish a clear and effective process for decommissioning their oil installations within the artisanal fishing areas of the Todosos Santos Bay. Furthermore, the discussion of fair and specific compensations has been avoided, which otherwise would be instrumental to regain local economic conditions found among fishermen just few decades ago.
文摘Objective: The aim of our study was to investigate the feasibility and safety of thoracoscopic internal mammary lymphadenectomy as a method to refine and thereby improve nodal staging in breast cancer. Methods: During the period from June 2004 to May 2007, 50 patients with operable breast cancer underwent modified radical mastectomy (MRM) or breast conserving surgery (BCS), followed by thoracoscopic internal mammary lymphadenectomy, using 3 ports through the skin incision of the MRM or the BCS. Metal clips were used to mark precise site of lymphadenectomy. Results: of total number of 50 patients, the mean age of patients was 44 years (range, 27-60 years). 40 (80%) had medio-central tumor, 10 (20%) had lateral tumor. 35 (70%) had clinically involved axillary nodes. 16 out of 50 patients received neo-adjuvant CTH. 44 patients underwent MRM and 6 patients underwent BCS. No intra-operative complications occurred. Atelectasis was the only postoperative complication that was encountered, which occurred in 12 cases, and was treated conservatively. The average chest drainage period was 1.2 day (range, 1-2 days). The total number of IMN metastasis was 18 patients (36%). The risk of IMN metastasis was higher; in younger patients (P = 0.03), in medio-central tumors (P = 0.03), in bigger tumors (P = 0.05), with heavier metastasis of axillary LNs (P = 0.001). But a correlation with the histological pattern of the lry tumor didn't exist (P = 1). Knowing the IMN status helped in proper staging of patients, 7 patients showed evident stage migration after adding the IMN analysis to that of primary tumor and axillary LN. During the follow up period (the median, 22 months; range, 7 to 42 months), no patient had pleural dissemination or port-site metastasis. Conclusion: Thoracoscopic IMN lymphadenectomy is a safe procedure, which can be done serious additional complications or cosmetic compromise. And allow proper nodal staging, which allow proper treatment planning.
文摘This paper offers a study of J.L.Lagrange's research on history of mathematics,aiming to clarify Lagrange's intention in carrying out historical work.To this end,I first document how Lagrange worked with and exerted his influence on other scholars in the translation and diffusion of ancient Greek texts.Second,investigating Lagrange's style in doing and writing history of mathematics,this paper takes a new perspective and elucidates his motivation in these activities.In particular,it focuses on Lagrange's presentation of the history of calculus while he was teaching analysis at the Ecole Polytechnique(1795-1799)so as to clarify the function of history in Lagrange's mathematical works.My thesis is that Lagrange's intention in examining the different methods employed by his predecessors was to find inspiration and useful contents in his search for the proper approach to mathematical problems.I thus argue in this paper that history served as a guide or methodology for Lagrange's mathematics.Meanwhile,through an analysis of his historical writing,this paper points to four epistemological values according to which Lagrange judged various historical methods of differential calculus:generality,simplicity,clarity,and rigor.Lagrange's move to rigorize analysis was connected to his interest in and research of Greek texts;he was attempting to introduce the rigor of the ancient Greeks'demonstration in his works of analysis.
基金supported by the National Natural Science of China(No.30000129)Ministry of Science and Technology of China(G1999012005).
文摘Histological study on the ontogeny of the lymphoid organs, kidney, thymus and spleen of Japanese flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus, from hatching to 40 d was carried out. The pronephric kidney duct appeared early in hatching although the primordial haemopoietic stem cells were observed within a week after hatching. The spleen was first seen after 8 d of hatching. The thymus appeared after 15 d, situated near the pronephric kidney. Small lymphoid cells appeared during the later phase of the post-larval stage in the sequence of thymus, kidney and spleen. During the 40 d of observations, there were no distinct inner or outer zones in thymus and no red or white pulp in spleen. These results suggest that the nonspecific defense immune system plays a very important role in the early larval stage of Japanese flounder.
文摘This paper aims to establish a methodological frame work and its validation as a response to the need of a demand management tool in the face of recurring comparisons of building revitalization or retrofits. As the investment and implementation actions improve and the social economic criteria are delimited by regulatory frameworks, it is extremely necessary to monitor previous performances and further prospects, regarding projects, it is necessary to measure the extent of which efforts have been meeting regulatory requirements and aiming to contribute with sustainable development. In this context, the use of indicators has been a major management tool.
文摘The use of the Albanian geothermal springs and waters, for their curative effects (Natural SPA) dates back centuries, since the time of the Roman Empire, while their first modern use started only in 1937. Unfortunately they had not been used for its energetic values yet. The temperature of the water is above 60 ~C and the flow above 16 L/s, thus direct utilization is possible, in particular for space heating. Three-dimensional temperature field calculations and engineering calculations on a heating system with heat exchangers are presented here. The results show that the water temperature is expected to be stable and considerably higher temperature is expected through deep well drilling. The University's Campus of Tirana is composed of 29 buildings, which are partially heated through a coal heater. The installed capacity is 2,558 kW while the coal consumption is about 920 kg/h. The University's Campus of Tirana is one of the most important areas and with the highest density of population in Tirana, so it is the best area to show the heat exchanger efficiency. The economic analyses prove that the borehole heat exchangers are more convenient than the coal heating systems.
文摘This research analyzes the growth impacts promoted by C class in the process of the freezing of the Brazilian industry and increased imports. This emerging market, called class C, which is incorporated in part by the low-income segment, presents distinct characteristics and needs and for this precise reason eventually burdens the short-term production of Brazilian companies, which feel the need to opt for the importation of basic commodities, manufactured, and semi-manufactured goods, in order to maintain a market share and return on their investments. Although this fact is actually part of a trend of global economic transformation, here it is due to a number of irregular actions taken by the Brazilian government facing a short-term political need. Stemming from quantitative researches and qualitative data, this paper sought to learn more about the consumers' profile and draw up some recommendations for the organizations, in order to be better prepared to face this new demand. This paper also sought to know the actions already undertaken by a large cosmetics company, parts of whose products aim at class C.
文摘Some unsaturated soils may undergo volumetric changes when submitted to an increase in its water content or are inundated under applied loads. This behavior is related to the volumetric instability when the water content is changed. Natural collapsible soils in Brazil are generally found in alluvial, colluvial and residual soils. There are known occurrences of natural collapsible soils in many states of Brasil. In the last two decades, many public projects have been developed in areas where the occurrence of collapsible soils has been associated to geotechnical problems. The present paper devoted to study the collapsible soils in the state of Pernambuco which has been associated with large engineering projects such as housing and irrigation canals. The geotechnical investigation program included test with a field apparatus, called Expanso-colapsometer, which allows the measurement of the field settlements of a small 0.10 m of diameter plate inserted at any depth inside an auger boring hole. Reconnaissance borings with SPT (standard penetration test), investigation pits with undisturbed block sampling and disturbed samples for laboratory tests were also made in order to assess the type and characteristics of the soil. Field tests used the Expanso-colapsometer to measure the settlement of the soil in selected depths under controlled flooding. Laboratory work included double and standard oedometer tests with a controlled rate of water inflow of 1.0 mL/s. It was found that the volume change of the soils when flooded depends on their natural stress state (vertical stress, suction head and structure of soil).
文摘Rapid technological advances in chicken processing in plants around the world have meant that different techniques are being employed regarding the slaughter's flow process. This paper aimed to compare and contrast systems and practices in two large slaughterhouses--one in UK and the other in Brazil. Annotated observations were made during inspection visits to chicken slaughterhouses in the two countries between 2014 and 2016. Whilst there were similarities in the two systems, there are also clear differences. The Brazilian case is evidently adapted for a more tropical condition, rather than the temperate one in UK. The handling practices of birds used during transportation, waiting, stunning as well as pre-cooling differ in techniques employed and consequently likely their efficiencies. In UK, the practices are more geared towards water and energy saving. The difference in market conditions and the length of the respective supply chains also determine the type of primary packaging used in final products. Both countries adhere to similar rulings applied to slaughterhouses. However, in the Brazilian case, it tended to comply with mainly external market demands. In conclusion, managers in the Brazilian poultry system could consider looking into adopting some of the practices used in UK, such as cage/crate dimension which reduce bird's lesions and bruises; the use of stunning by modified atmosphere and pre-cooling for resource efficiency reasons and improvement in animal welfare. Finally, when distances between sites of production and consumption are great such as in Brazil, the use of modified atmosphere technology could be also further explored to ensure better quality of the final product.
文摘According to Brazilian reports of large trucks accidents on Federal Highway, fatigue and speeding are the major contributors to those accidents in which drivers are trying to meet short delivery deadlines for long hauls. A new federal law has been approved to limit truck drivers' working times, including maximum continuous driving time and maximum daily and weekly on-duty time. We present a study that aims at analyzing whether the existing resting areas on federal highways have sufficient capacity to meet current and future demand for truck stops. We have established the following method: In the first step, we review and study different models found in the literature and evaluate their potential application to Brazilian conditions; In the next step, we develop our own model and, finally, validate it using data from BR-101 Federal Highway, in Santa Catarina State. Tests made using part of collected data (which were subjected to statistical treatment) showed satisfactory results, indicating that the demand behavior was consistent with that observed in the field and the answers provided by truck drivers in the interviews. The research has yet to complete processing all data and it also must be repeated in other regions with different characteristics.
文摘This paper attempts to unfold certain socio-economic characteristics of Albanian undocumented or "irregular" migrants returning from EU member states. The idea emerged from an IOM research followed by a study conducted two years ago (2007-2008) on this particular Albanian migratory development. The paper aims to contribute to the early chapters of a future potential empirical research, thus stimulating theoretical discourses towards defining the socio-economic profile of Albanian returned migrants. The research among Albanian undocumented migrants returned from Greece, the UK, etc., indicates that many of the above migrants were found to be recidivists, crossing borders frequently and undocumented. Greece being the main destination and simultaneously (deporting) country, leads to the assumption that it is the main destination country for undocumented migrants. The number of Albanian returnees from Greece reaches its peak, notably in April and September, with the start of seasonal works. The number of returned Albanian minors invoke problematics that demand for appropriate attention and assistance during the procedures of readmission (return, handover by the returning authorities, readmission by Albanian authorities etc.). With regard to causes of undocumented migration, one might identify a slight tendency among undocumented young migrants, to qualify poverty as the main reason rather than lack of working opportunities as Albanian middle age migrants would argue.
文摘The development of measurement geometry for medical X-ray computed tomography (CT) scanners was carried out from the first to the fourth-generation. This concept has also been applied for imaging of industrial processes such as pipe flows or for improving design, operation, optimization and troubleshooting. Nowadays, gamma CT permits to visualize failure equipment points in three-dimensional analysis and in sections of chemical and petrochemical industries. The aim of this work is the development of the mechanical system on a third-generation industrial CT scanner to analyze laboratorial process columns which perform highly efficient separation, turning the ^6oCo, ^75Se, ^137Cs and/or ^192Ir sealed gamma-ray source(s) and the NaI(Tl) multidetector array. It also has a translation movement along the column axis to obtain as many slices of the process flow as needed. The mechanical assembly for this third-generation industrial CT scanner is comprised by strength and rigidity structural frame in stainless and carbon steels, rotating table, source shield and collimator with pneumatic exposure system, spur gear system, translator, rotary stage, drives and stepper motors. The use of suitable spur gears has given a good repeatability and high accuracy in the degree of veracity. The data acquisition boards, mechanical control interfaces, software for movement control and image reconstruction were specially development. A multiphase phantom capable to be setting with solid, liquid and gas was testing. The scanner was setting for 90 views and 19 projections for each detector totalizing 11,970 projections. Experiments to determine the linear attenuation coefficients of the phantom were carried out which applied the Lambert-Beer principle. Results showed that it was possible to distinguish between the phases even the polymethylmethacrylate and the water have very similar density and linear attenuation coefficients. It was established that the newly developed third-generation fan-beam arrangement gamma scanner unit has a good spatial resolution acceptable given the size of the used phantom in this study. The tomografic reconstruction algorithm in used 60 ~ 60 pixels images was the Alternative Minimization (AM) technique and was implemented in MATLAB and VB platforms. The mechanical system presented a good performance in terms of strength, rigidity, accuracy and repeatability with great potential to be used for education or program which dedicated to training chemical and petrochemical industry professionals and for industrial process optimization in Brazil.
文摘This paper explores the status of Jerusalem as viewed by Edward Said in his political works particularly in his article "The Current Status of Jerusalem" written in 1995 and published posthumously in 2011 in Jerusalem Quarterly, the only Arab journal that focuses exclusively on the city of Jerusalem's history, political status, and future. In his article, Said raises various issues regarding Jerusalem and the Palestinian-Israeli peace process. The article depicts Israel's policy of Judaizing Jerusalem and its attempts to make Jerusalem its eternal capital. Said tries to expose the Israeli meretricious strategies regarding Jerusalem which begin by projecting an image of what it wants the world to believe and then translating that false image into reality. Said also underscores the fact that both Palestinians and the pan-Arab nation have failed to counteract the Israeli policy of selling to the world the notion of Jerusalem belonging exclusively to Israel, a failure that has enabled Israel to tighten its grip on the Holy City and to curb the Palestinians', the Arabs' and the Muslims' attempts to counterattack on the level of media information. In Said's view, the only hope for the future is a decent and fair coexistence between the two peoples based upon equality and self-determination. For him, the separation between the Palestinians and the Israelis since 1948 has not led to successful outcomes; a one state---rather than a binational-state solution is, therefore, the more possible way of resolving the Arab-Israeli conflict.
文摘To investigate Max Weber’s concept of bureaucracy and its relevance to Pakistan’s civil service, this study explains the system of governance followed in different nations, its function, and bureaucratic formulations in the well-managed and administered state. The paper analyzes reasons for the poor performance of Pakistani public service provision. International development doctrines pertaining to governance are based on accountable to the governments and effective bureaucracy. This study explores the formation of the Pakistani state and civil service and its role in the implementation of government policies. Irrespective of the system of governance followed across different nations, the presence, and functioning of a bureaucratic set-up is crucial to manage and administer the state. However, in Pakistan there has been an egregious failure of the bureaucratic set-up to achieve this vision. This study explores the reasons why based on Weberian sociological theory affirming that the main characteristic of bureaucracy is espirit de corps, doing things for the good of the institution (i.e., civil service) even if goes against the public interest. This study analyzes such orientation in the context of a major developing state, Pakistan. The essential principal function of bureaucracy is to honestly and sincerely implement the government policies on behalf of the people. The government provides representation of the national interest, mainly when democratically elected, while the bureaucracy provides skills and know-how; the latter is liable to the former, but often not directly to the public. Thus, bureaucrats are usually known as “civil servants”, who provide continuity in governance and daily life, despite the vagaries of changes in government. This is a qualitative research entirely based on literature survey from library data collected from books and articles.
文摘Gweru Women AIDS Prevention Association (GWAPA) is an organization that works with commercial sex-workers in the Midlands Province to try and stymie the tide of HIV/AIDS. The organization premises its activities upon the belief that sex workers are forced into prostitution by poverty and thus offers them alternative livelihood strategies such as piggery projects, chicken rearing, and vegetable vending projects as well as seed money with which to start flea market projects. The organization also runs a condom promotion project, a legal literacy project, and an advocacy project, all in a bid to empower the sex workers cognitively. The study was carried out between April and October 2008, using bar-based observations, interviews, focus group discussions, and documentary evidence. The study found participation to have been more of a fallacy in as far as programming depended more on the whims of donor funders than the actual needs of programme beneficiaries. In the top-down manner that is typical of development communication, the organization would engage donors and secure funding for certain projects which they would then try to convince the sex workers to take up, with mixed results. The research also found limited evidence of real empowerment of beneficiaries in the long run, with the sex workers themselves insisting that the "piece-meal" efforts of the organization were not sustainable enough to induce them to abandon sex work altogether. The study did, however, find that the organization and its programming had actually managed to score notable success in promoting safer sex within the context of prostitution, albeit without eradicating sex work altogether.
文摘In a recent historical process of economic stabilization and of social policies focused on the disadvantaged, major changes in the composition of the Brazilian social pyramid are happening. Driven by the increase of employment and income, in conditions of low inflation and abundant credit, millions of Brazilians have increased in recent years their purchasing power and started to acquire their own home and car--gaudiest symbols of joining the middle class--as well as a wide range of consumer goods. It appears that this set of transformations profoundly altered the perceptions and strategies of social mobility. So this phenomenon is being called the shaping of the new Brazilian middle class. The fact is that there is a group growing, sustained mainly by a decrease in income inequality. In this study, we attempted to draw a clear overview and some disagreements about the emergence of a new Brazilian middle class. On the topic of the emergence of a new Brazilian middle class, one can say that it is not a completely true fact, and that there was actually an expansion of the income of families who still harbor extreme ties with the working classes and why not, popular classes. What to some scholars would be the emergence of a new working class, whose average income is approaching the middle income of what is considered as the lower middle class?