Search

Background: Virtual reality (VR) can be used to build many different scenes aimed at reducing study-related stress. However, only few academic experiments on university students for preference testing have been performed. Objective: This study aims to assess the preference of VR games for stress and depression treatment using a discrete choice experiment (DCE). Methods: A total of 5 different attributes were selected based on the depression therapy parameters and attributes related to VR: (1) treatment modality; (2) therapy duration; (3) perceived remission rate; (4) probability of adverse events; and the (5) monthly cost of adding treatment to a discrete choice experiment. By comparing different attributes and levels, we could draw some conclusions about the depression therapy testing preference for university students; 1 university student was responsible for VR scene development and 1 for participant recruitment. Results: The utility value of different attributes for “0% Probability of adverse events” was higher than others (99.22), and the utility value of VR treatment as the most popular treatment method compared with counseling and medicine treatment was 80.95. Three parameter aspects (different treatments for depression) were statistically significant (P<.001), including “0%” and “50%” of “Probability of adverse events” and “¥500” (a currency exchange rate of ¥1 [Chinese yuan]=US $0.15 is applicable) of “The monthly cost of treatment.” Most individuals preferred 12 months as the therapy duration, and the odds ratio of “12 months” was 1.095 (95% CI 0.945-1.270) when compared with the reference level (6 months). Meanwhile, the cheapest price (¥500) of depression therapy was the optimum choice for most students. Conclusions: People placed great preference on VR technology psychological intervention methods, which indicates that VR may have a potential market in the treatment of psychological problems. However, adverse events and treatment costs need to be consid

High pressure processing (HPP) can be applied as an alternative thermal treatment of milk to maintain its natural and original sensory quality. Milk was processed at 600 MPa for 10 min or given thermal treatment at 125 °C for 4 s. Sensory evaluation of treated milk samples was conducted using the triangle and the acceptance and preference tests. The triangle test was used as a discriminative test to check whether there was a noticeable difference between both treated milk samples. The acceptance and preference test determined attributes of milk including colour, milkiness, creaminess, mouthfeel, and aftertaste based on the 5-point just-about-right (JAR) scale. In the triangle test, 89.5% of panellists were able to identify the odd sample and differentiate milk processed using high pressure from heat treatment. For the acceptance and preference test, 61% of panellists gave higher overall preference for the high pressure processed milk over heat-treated milk. The JAR evaluation showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in all evaluated milk attributes which included milkiness, creaminess, mouthfeel, and aftertaste, with the exception of colour. Overall, high pressure processed milk scored better in terms of organoleptic properties as the penalty value for most attributes including colour, milkiness, mouthfeel, and aftertaste were lower than the penalty of heat-treated milk, except for creaminess. Therefore, to improve the acceptance and preference of high pressure processed milk, future development needs to focus on increasing creaminess of high pressure processed milk.

Zhenquan Lu,1,&ast; Jian Hou,1,&ast; Xiao Li,2 Jun Zhou,2 Bingfeng Luo,1 Songwu Liang,1 Richard K Lo,1 Tak Man Wong,2 Guan-Ming Kuang2 1Department of Urology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Guan-Ming Kuang, Email kuanggm@hku-szh.orgAbstract: Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the potential exosome-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) related to prostate cancer (Pca) bone metastasis.Methods: Two datasets were collected. One dataset was from the authors’ institute, for which two groups of 10 patients each were designed: in the first one, the patients had early-stage localised Pca without bone metastasis, and in the other, the patients presented with Pca with bone metastasis. Then, the miRNA expression profiles of the blood exosomes were obtained and analysed. The other dataset was a public dataset of the miRNA expression transcriptome (GSE26964), which was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The results of both datasets were jointly analysed and the most bone-metastatic-related differentially expressed miRNAs (diff-miRNAs) were identified and further validated. Finally, a series of bioinformatics analyses were performed and the relationship between target genes of the diff-miRNAs and the pathogenesis and progression of bone metastasis of Pca were studied.Results: From the authors’ dataset, in all, 313 diff-miRNAs were identified, of which 205 were up-regulated while 108 were down-regulated. From the GSE26964 dataset, 107 diff-miRNAs were found, of which 44 were up-regulated and 63 were down-regulated. Taking the intersection of the results of both datasets, four diff-miRNAs were identified: hsa-miR-125a-3p, hsa-miR-330-3p, hsa-miR-339-5p and hsa-m

BACKGROUND: China and the United States play critical leading roles in the global effort to contain the COVID-19 virus. Therefore, their population's preferences for initial diagnosis were compared to provide policy and clinical insights. OBJECTIVE: We aim to quantify and compare the public's preferences for medical management of fever and the attributes of initial diagnosis in the case of presenting symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic in China and the United States. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study from January to March 2021 in China and the United States using an online discrete choice experiment (DCE) questionnaire distributed through Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk; in the United States) and recruited volunteers (in China). Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to match the 2 groups of respondents from China and the United States to minimize confounding effects. In addition, the respondents' preferences for different diagnosis options were evaluated using a mixed logit model (MXL) and latent class models (LCMs). Moreover, demographic data were collected and compared using the chi-square test, Fisher test, and Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS: A total of 9112 respondents (5411, 59.4%, from China and 3701, 40.6%, from the United States) who completed our survey were included in our analysis. After PSM, 1240 (22.9%) respondents from China and 1240 (33.5%) from the United States were matched for sex, age, educational level, occupation, and annual salary levels. The segmented sizes of 3 classes of respondents from China were 870 (70.2%), 270 (21.8%), and 100 (8.0%), respectively. Meanwhile, the US respondents' segmented sizes were 269 (21.7%), 139 (11.2%), and 832 (67.1%), respectively. Respondents from China attached the greatest importance to the type of medical institution (weighted importance=40.0%), while those from the United States valued the waiting time (weighted importance=31.5%) the most. Respondents from China preferred the emergency departmen

AimThe present study aimed to investigate the construct structure behind the psychosocial response, behavioral response, prenatal depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic in China. MethodThe validated Chinese version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), PTSD CheckList (PCL)-6, and two newly established scales for COVID-19-related psychological and behavioral responses were used. Structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis was applied to evaluate the structural relationships of psychological and behavioral responses during the COVID-19 pandemic. ResultsOf the 1,908 mothers who completed the questionnaires, 1,099 met the criteria for perinatal depression, and 287 were positively screened for PTSD, where 264 women exceed the cut-off points for both. Pregnant women with full-time or part-time jobs tended to have the lowest scores of EPDS (10.07 +/- 5.11, P < 0.001) and stress levels (23.85 +/- 7.96, P = 0.004), yet they were more likely to change their behavior in accordance with the COVID-19 outbreak (13.35 +/- 3.42, P = 0.025). The structural model fit the data (chi(2) = 43.260, p < 0.001) and resulted in satisfactory fit indices (CFI = 0.984, TLI = 0.959, RMSEA = 0.072, and chi(2)/df = 10.815), all path loadings were significant (p < 0.05). The SEM indicates that the level of QoL was attributable to the occurrence of PND, leading to PTSD, and COVID-19 related behavioral and psychological responses. ConclusionThe inter-relationships between the COVID-19-related psychosocial and behavioral responses have been assessed, indicating that the pandemic increased the burden of perinatal depression. Psychoeducation, as well as other psychological interventions, may be needed to alleviate the COVID-19-based anxiety and increase their engagement in protective behaviors.

This music score was submitted for the Kaleidoscope 2020 Call for Scores, an open access collaboration with the UCLA Music Library.

This music score was submitted for the Kaleidoscope 2020 Call for Scores, an open access collaboration with the UCLA Music Library.

This music score was submitted for the Kaleidoscope 2020 Call for Scores, an open access collaboration with the UCLA Music Library.

Decoding neurons to extract information from transmission and employ them into other use is the goal of neuroscientists' study. Due to that the field of neuroscience is utilizing the traditional methods presently, we hence combine the state-of-the-art deep learning techniques with the theory of neuron decoding to discuss its potential of accomplishment. Besides, the stress level that is related to neuron activity in hippocampus is statistically examined as well. The experiments suggest that our state-of-the-art deep learning-based stress determinator provides good performance with respect to its model prediction accuracy and additionally, there is strong evidence against equivalence of mouse stress level under diverse environments., Comment: The paper need re-evaluated and reviewed, may cause some significant changes

Terahertz (THz) sensing is a promising imaging technology for a wide variety of different applications. Extracting the interpretable and physically meaningful parameters for such applications, however, requires solving an inverse problem in which a model function determined by these parameters needs to be fitted to the measured data. Since the underlying optimization problem is nonconvex and very costly to solve, we propose learning the prediction of suitable parameters from the measured data directly. More precisely, we develop a model-based autoencoder in which the encoder network predicts suitable parameters and the decoder is fixed to a physically meaningful model function, such that we can train the encoding network in an unsupervised way. We illustrate numerically that the resulting network is more than 140 times faster than classical optimization techniques while making predictions with only slightly higher objective values. Using such predictions as starting points of local optimization techniques allows us to converge to better local minima about twice as fast as optimization without the network-based initialization., Comment: This is a pre-print of a conference paper published in German Conference on Pattern Recognition (GCPR) 2019

Viewers of Virtual Reality (VR) simulations often feel like they are moving even though they are actually stationary. This phenomenon is called vection or illusions of self-motion. The effects of oscillation frequency on vection along different axes have been studied with fixed velocity and fixed amplitude by Chen et al. (2016) and Fu (2017). Results suggest that in contrast to the literature, there were two different types of frequency response curves instead of one, depending on either velocity or amplitude held constant. This has been referred to as the “two-frequency-response (2FR)” hypothesis. This hypothesis can explain inconsistent frequency responses associated with vection in the literature, but it has only been tested with screen-based projected images. This study examines the 2FR hypothesis in an immersive VR environment. In Experiment 1, viewers were exposed to an immersive VR disco light environment presented on an HTC VIVE headset. Dotted disco lights were moving according to selected combinations of five levels of frequency, rms velocity, and amplitude. Results show that the 2FR hypothesis is applicable, but the shape of the response curve under constant amplitude was different from the findings of Fu (2017). One possible reason for the difference in results might be the differences in scene complexity. Experiment 1 used oscillating patterns in two dimensions while Fu used contrasted stripes of one dimension. As such, the vertical spatial complexity in this study was found to be significantly higher than that in Fu. In Experiment 2, the contrasted stripe patterns used in Fu were adopted and presented in the HTC VR environment. Results indicate that the findings of Experiment 1 still hold. This suggests that the addition or removal of vertical spatial complexity did not affect the frequency response of vection. Future work to identify the cause of different frequency response shapes is required. The current work demonstrates that the 2FR hypotheses hol

This dissertation examines how polities are being transformed by, and are responding to, increased global migration focusing on the immigration control policies of advanced industrialized democracies. It argues that increased global migration has reaffirmed and entrenched the exclusionary prerogatives of immigration control, meaning the sovereign right of states to "keep out the other." This has led to a tightening of citizenship and a narrowing of the boundaries of political and societal inclusion. I provide evidence of this using a mixed methods multi-level analysis that focuses on the nexus between emergent human rights norms, global migratory trends, and state policies directed towards irregular (i.e., undocumented/illegal) migrants. In weaving together this nexus, this dissertation bridges central debates about globalization and human rights in international relations with new research on immigration control in comparative politics. At the international level, in an analysis of 160 countries from 1990 to 2008, I find that human rights treaties that require states to extend fundamental rights to noncitizens are among the most poorly ratified treaties. But more than that, as immigration into a country increases even liberal democracies become less likely to ratify, as doing so may encourage more immigration. I then move to a comparative analysis of immigration control across Western democracies, focusing on deportation and immigration detention. This dissertation is among the first to analyze contemporary trends in these critical indicators of immigration control across countries and over time. I find that economic and migration factors only partially explain trends in deportation and detention. Rather, it is the legislative representation of the far right that significantly increases the restrictiveness of immigration control. In examining how the far right "matters," I find that the political opportunities created by electoral rules explain the impact of the fa

Multiculturalism as an ideology to manage culturally diverse societies argues that when cultural group distinctiveness is valued and promoted, positive intergroup relations would ensue (e.g. Modood, 2007; Parekh, 2001). Social psychological research has mainly looked at multiculturalism in terms of its endorsement by majority and minority group members and its implications for intergroup relations and acculturation processes. However, multiculturalism is not only about the maintenance of ethnic identities and cultures but also about the full participation of all ethno-cultural groups in society. This means that (i) individuals have to make sense of how their collective identities (e.g. ethnic, religious, national) come together and (ii) politically, multicultural societies are about equitable participation and hence inclusion, decision-making and power. The dissertation attempted to contribute to the social psychological literature on multiculturalism by looking at intergroup evaluations and also examine multiple identifications and the evaluations of (group) decision-making. The social identity approach provided the main theoretical framework from which to derive predictions. The studies were carried out in an under-researched social context of the nation as a ‘fruit salad’ (i.e. Mauritius) where multiculturalism is the predominant ideology. Mauritius is often considered as a successful polyethnic society (Eriksen, 2004). Survey data was collected among adolescent participants (age range 11 years to 19 years) of the three main ethnic groups, i.e. Hindus (n = 844), Muslims (n = 630) and Creoles (n = 310). Although the socio-historical context of Mauritius is specific, it provided a real-life equivalence to the theoretical understanding of multiculturalism. The results are thus revealing of the forms that intergroup relations can take when multiculturalism is relatively uncontested. It was found that majority and minority adolescents’ attitudes and views on the diffe

Knowledge bases are essential for supporting decision making during intelligent information processing. Automatic construction of knowledge bases becomes infeasible without labeled data, a complete table of data records including answers to queries. Preparing such information requires huge efforts from experts. The authors propose a new knowledge base refinement framework based on pattern mining and active learning using an existing available knowledge base constructed from a different domain (source domain) solving the same task as well as some data collected from the target domain. The knowledge base investigated in this paper is represented by a model known as Markov Logic Networks. The authors' proposed method first analyzes the unlabeled target domain data and actively asks the expert to provide labels (or answers) a very small amount of automatically selected queries. The idea is to identify the target domain queries whose underlying relations are not sufficiently described by the existing source domain knowledge base. Potential relational patterns are discovered and new logic relations are constructed for the target domain by exploiting the limited amount of labeled target domain data and the unlabeled target domain data. The authors have conducted extensive experiments by applying our approach to two different text mining applications, namely, pronoun resolution and segmentation of citation records, demonstrating consistent improvements.

We consider an initial value problem for a quadratically nonlinear inviscid Burgers-Hilbert equation that models the motion of vorticity discontinuities. We use a modified energy method to prove the existence of small, smooth solutions over cubically nonlinear time-scales.

Fe-B熔體可鑄造成網絡狀合金的微觀結構。研究顯示，熔融狀態的Fe₈₄B₁₆在275 K 過冷時將發生形態轉變。實驗結果指出熔融狀態的Fe-B合金存在一亞穏液態互溶區。該互溶區範圍為Fe₈₄B₁₄.到Fe₈₂B₁₈.。Fe-B網絡狀合金的微觀結構，由一個易碎的Fe₃B子網絡和一個具延展性的αFe子網絡組成。因此Fe-B網絡狀合金擁有具吸引性的物理性能。, 由於Fe₈₄B₁₆網絡狀合金並不存在任何微孔，因此我們可推斷合金在結晶的過程中，兩個子網絡的固體/液體界面將一起生長。而且，在固體/液體界面前並不具有硼原子的濃度梯度。因此我們提出了一個生長模型來分析Fe-B網絡狀合金來自掃瞄電子顯微鏡和透射電子顯微鏡的檢測結果。Fe-B網絡狀合金的結晶動力學和微觀結構均得到解釋。研究顯示，合金中的兩個子網絡均擁有特定的生長方向，並且以樹枝晶的方式來生長。, Molten Fe₁₀₀-{U+2093}B{U+2093} melts, where x = 14 to 18, can be cast into ingots of network morphology. It was found that there is a morphological transition in molten Fe₈₄B₁₆.with undercooling of 275 K. The experimental results indicate that there is a metastable liquid miscibility gap in undercooled Fe-B melts. The network morphology consists of two interconnected subnetworks, which are αFe subnetwork and Fe₃B subnetwork respectively. The Fe-B network alloys have attractive mechanical properties., As micropore does not exist in the Fe₈₄B₁₆ network ingot, it is proposed that the solid/liquid interfaces of the two subnetworks advance together during solidification. In addition, there is no composition gradient of boron atoms at the growth front. A growth model is proposed to explain the results by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. It was found that there is special crystallinity in Fe₈₄B₁₆ network ingots., Detailed summary in vernacular field only., Detailed summary in vernacular field only., Wong, Tak Cheung = 鐵硼網狀合金的形成和結晶動力學 / 黃德彰., Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2012., Includes bibliographical references., s also in Chinese., Wong, Tak Cheung = Tie peng wang zhuang he jin de xing cheng he jie jing dong li xue / Huang Dezhang., p.ii, Acknowledge --- p.iv, List of Table --- p.vii, List of Figures --- p.viii, Chapter Chapter 1 --- Introduction --- p.1, Chapter 1.1 --- Phase diagram --- p.1, Chapter 1.1.1 --- Undercooling --- p.1, Chapter 1.2 --- Nucleation and Growth --- p.2, Chapter 1.2.1 --- Homogeneous Nucleation --- p.3, Chapter 1.2.2 --- Heterogeneous Nucleation --- p.3, Chapter 1.2.3 --- Growth --- p.6, Chapter 1.2.3.1 --- Growth of Pure Metal --- p.6, Chapter 1.2.3.2 --- Solid/Liquid interface stability --- p.7, Chapter 1.2.3.3 --- Solidification of Single Phase Binary Alloys --- p.8, Chapter 1.2.3.3.1 --- Equilibrium Solidification --- p.8, Chapter 1.2.3.3.2 --- Non-Equilibrium Solidification --- p.8, Chapter 1.2.3.3.3 --- Morphology Change --- p.9, Chapter 1.2.3.4 --- Solidification of the Binary Eutectic Alloy --- p.10, Chapter 1.2.3.4.1 --- Growth of Lamellar Eutectics --- p.10, Chapter 1.2.3.4.2 --- Off-Eutectic Alloys --- p.11, Chapter 1.3 --- Binary Systems with a Solid Miscibility Gap --- p.11, Chapter 1.4 --- Phase Separation Mechanisms in a Solid Miscibility Gap --- p.12, Chapter 1.4.1 --- Nucleation and Growth --- p.12, Chapter 1.4.2 --- Spinodal Decomposition --- p.13, Chapter 1.4.4.1 --- The initiation of Spinodal Decomposition --- p.13, Chapter 1.4.4.2 --- Diffusion Equation of Spinodal Decomposition --- p.14, Chapter 1.4.4.3 --- Solution to the Modified Diffusion Equation --- p.17, Figures --- p.18, References, Chapter Chapter 2 --- Experimental --- p.29, Chapter 2.1 --- Preparation of fused silica tube --- p.29, Chapter 2.2 --- Alloying and fluxing --- p.29, Chapter 2.3 --- Undercooling --- p.30, Chapter 2.4 --- Sample Preparation --- p.31, Chapter 2.4.1 --- Cutting, Grinding and Polishing --- p.31, Chapter 2.4.2 --- Sample preparation for Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) --- p.32, Chapter 2.4.3 --- Sample preparation for Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) --- p.32, Chapter 2.5 --- Microhardness Test --- p.33, Chapter 2.6 --- Compression Test --- p.33, Chapter 2.7 --- Microstructure Analysis --- p.34, Chapter 2.7.1 --- Scanning Electron Microscopy Analysis --- p.34, Chapter 2.7.2 --- Transmission Electron Microscopy Analysis --- p.34, Chapter 2.7.3 --- Indexing Diffraction Patterns --- p.34, Figures --- p.36, Chapter Chapter 3 --- Formation of Fe-B network alloys --- p.38, Chapter 3.1 --- Abstract --- p.38, Chapter 3.2 --- Introduction --- p.39, Chapter 3.3 --- Experimental --- p.40, Chapter 3.4 --- Results --- p.42, Chapter 3.5 --- Discussion --- p.47, Chapter 3.6 --- Conclusions --- p.48, Figures --- p.50, References --- p.69, Chapter Chapter 4 --- SEM and TEM studies of Fe84B16 70 alloys of network morphology --- p.70, Chapter 4.1 --- Abstract --- p.70, Chapter 4.2 --- Introduction --- p.71, Chapter 4.3 --- Background --- p.71, Chapter 4.4 --- Experimental --- p.73, Chapter 4.5 --- Results --- p.74, Chapter 4.6 --- Discussions --- p.81, Chapter 4.7 --- Conclusions --- p.85, Figures --- p.87, References --- p.106, http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5549111, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

Worldwide, one in three cancers is skin-related, with increasing incidence in many populations. Here, we demonstrate the capacity of a DNAzyme-targeting c-jun mRNA, Dz13, to inhibit growth of two common skin cancer types - basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas - in a therapeutic setting with established tumors. Dz13 inhibited tumor growth in both immunodeficient and immunocompetent syngeneic mice and reduced lung nodule formation in a model of metastasis. In addition, Dz13 suppressed neovascularization in tumor-bearing mice and zebrafish and increased apoptosis of tumor cells. Dz13 inhibition of tumor growth, which required an intact catalytic domain, was due in part to the induction of tumor immunity. In a series of good laboratory practice-compliant toxicology studies in cynomolgus monkeys, minipigs, and rodents, the DNAzyme was found to be safe and well tolerated. It also did not interfere in more than 70 physiologically relevant in vitro bioassays, suggesting a reduced propensity for off-target effects. If these findings hold true in clinical trials, Dz13 may provide a safe, effective therapy for human skin cancer.

Wong, Tak Hong., Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2011., Includes bibliographical references (leaves 96-104)., s in English and Chinese., Thesis Committee --- p.i, Statement --- p.ii, p.iii, Chinese Abstract --- p.v, Acknowledgements --- p.vii, Abbreviation --- p.ix, Table of Content --- p.xi, List of figures --- p.xiv, List of tables --- p.xv, Chapter 1. --- Introduction --- p.1, Chapter 1.1 --- Problem of soil salinization and sodification: reducing crop productivity --- p.1, Chapter 1.2 --- Effects of high salinity on plant growth --- p.2, Chapter 1.2.1 --- Ion toxicity --- p.2, Chapter 1.2.2 --- Osmotic stress --- p.3, Chapter 1.2.3 --- Oxidative stress --- p.3, Chapter 1.3 --- Overview of salt tolerance mechanisms in plant --- p.4, Chapter 1.3.1 --- Maintenance of ion homeostasis --- p.4, Chapter 1.3.2 --- Maintaining osmotic homeostasis --- p.5, Chapter 1.3.3 --- Detoxification of Reactive oxygen species --- p.5, Chapter 1.4 --- The important role of CI- in plant salt stress tolerance research --- p.6, Chapter 1.5 --- Introduction to chloride channel (CLC) family --- p.7, Chapter 1.6 --- E. coli CLC-ecl: The first CLC member found to function as antiporter --- p.8, Chapter 1.7 --- Yeast GEF1: eukaryotic model for early plant CLC complementation studies --- p.9, Chapter 1.8 --- Mammalian CLC family: 4 channels and 5 antiporters --- p.10, Chapter 1.8.1 --- CLC-4 and -5: First eukaryotic CLC member found to be function as antiporter --- p.13, Chapter 1.8.2 --- CLC-7 function as antiporter and regulate lysosomal acidification --- p.13, Chapter 1.8.3 --- "CLC-6 select nitrate over chloride, unlike other mammalian CLC members" --- p.14, Chapter 1.9 --- Introduction to Plant CLC members --- p.14, Chapter 1.10 --- Tobacco CLC-Ntl co-localized with mitochondrial markers in plant and may cause current on Xenopus oocytes membrane --- p.15, Chapter 1.11 --- Rice CLCs may involved in salt tolerenace and growth regulation --- p.16, Chapter 1.12 --- Arabidopsis CLC members are extensively studied --- p.18, Chapter 1.12.1 --- AtCLCa regulates nitrate accumulation --- p.20, Chapter 1.12.2 --- "AtCLCb, a nitrate/proton antiporter with unclear physiological role" --- p.22, Chapter 1.12.3 --- "AtCLCc selective chloride over nitrate, involved in salt tolerance" --- p.23, Chapter 1.12.4 --- AtCLCd and AtCLCf both localized on Golgi network --- p.25, Chapter 1.12.5 --- AtCLCe may regulate ionic strength of chloroplast thylakoid membrane --- p.26, Chapter 1.13 --- Previous work in Prof. Lam's laboratory --- p.26, Chapter 1.14 --- "Reason, Hypothesis, Objective and long term significance" --- p.28, Chapter 2. --- Materials and Methods --- p.30, Chapter 2.1 --- Materials --- p.30, Chapter 2.1.1 --- "Bacterial strains, animals, plants and plasmid vectors" --- p.30, Chapter 2.1.2 --- Chemicals and Enzymes --- p.33, Chapter 2.1.3 --- Commercial kits --- p.33, Chapter 2.1.4 --- Primers --- p.35, Chapter 2.1.5 --- Equipments and facilities used --- p.36, Chapter 2.1.6 --- "Buffer, solution, gel and medium" --- p.36, Chapter 2.1.7 --- Software --- p.36, Chapter 2.2 --- Methods --- p.37, Chapter 2.2.1 --- Growth and treatment of soybean seedling --- p.37, Chapter 2.2.2 --- RNA extraction from root tissue --- p.37, Chapter 2.2.3 --- RNA denaturing gel electrophoresis --- p.39, Chapter 2.2.4 --- Generation and testing of single-stranded DIG-labeled PCR probes --- p.39, Chapter 2.2.5 --- Northern blot analysis --- p.41, Chapter 2.2.6 --- Transformation of V7/GmCLCl electro-competent Agrobacterium tumefaciens --- p.42, Chapter 2.2.7 --- PCR screening of transformed Agrobacterium tumefaciens colonies --- p.43, Chapter 2.2.8 --- DNA gel electrophoresis --- p.43, Chapter 2.2.9 --- Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of tobacco BY-2 cells --- p.44, Chapter 2.2.10 --- Verifying the expression of GmCLCl in transgenic tobacco BY-2 cells --- p.45, Chapter 2.2.11 --- Salt treatment of tobacco BY-2 cells and cell viability assay --- p.46, Chapter 2.2.12 --- Subcloning of GmCLCl cDNA into pgh21 vector --- p.47, Chapter 2.2.13 --- In vitro synthesis of GmCLCl cRNA --- p.51, Chapter 2.2.14 --- Obtaining oocyte from Xenopus laevis ovaries --- p.52, Chapter 2.2.15 --- Microinjection of GmCLCl cRNA into Xenopus oocyte and oocyte incubation --- p.53, Chapter 2.2.16 --- Two electrode voltage clamp of Xenopus oocytes --- p.54, Chapter 3. --- Results --- p.56, Chapter 3.1 --- Phylogenetic analysis of GmCLCl --- p.56, Chapter 3.2 --- Expression of GmCLCl in root was induced by NaCl and alkaline condition --- p.60, Chapter 3.3 --- Construction of GmCLCl transgenic tobacco BY-2 cell line --- p.62, Chapter 3.4 --- GmCLCl improve NaCl stress tolerance of transgenic tobacco BY-2 cells in a pH dependent manner --- p.67, Chapter 3.5 --- Subcloning of GmCLCl into pgh21 --- p.70, Chapter 3.6 --- GmCLCl cRNA synthesis by in vitro transcription --- p.72, Chapter 3.7 --- Two electrode voltage clamp (TEVC) of GmCLCl cRNA injected Xenopus oocytes --- p.75, Chapter 4. --- Discussion --- p.81, Chapter 4.1 --- Implications from phylogenetic and sequence analysis on the function of GmCLCl --- p.81, Chapter 4.2 --- Electrophysiological characterization of GmCLC 1 by Xenopus oocytes --- p.82, Chapter 4.3 --- Some plant CLCs contributed in salt tolerance response --- p.84, Chapter 4.4 --- Relationship between pH and physiological function of plant CLCs --- p.85, Chapter 5. --- Conclusion and Perspectives --- p.88, Chapter 6. --- Appendices --- p.90, Chapter Appendix I: --- Major Chemicals and reagents used in this research --- p.90, Chapter Appendix II: --- Enzymes used in this research --- p.92, Chapter Appendix III: --- Major equipment and facilities used in this research --- p.93, Chapter Appendix IV: --- "Buffer, solution, gel and medium formulation" --- p.94, Chapter 7. --- References --- p.96, http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5894849, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

We have developed a framework for tackling the problem of automatically adapting relational logic models, in particular, Markov Logic Network (MLN), from a source domain to a target domains solving the same task using only unlabeled data in the target domain. One characteristic of the problem is that since the data distributions of the two domains are different, there should be different tailor-made relational logic model for each domain. On the other hand, the relational logic models should share certain amount of similarities due to the same goal and similar nature of the data. Unlike ordinary MLN learning methods, which only consider the distribution of the labeled training examples in learning, we also consider the similarities and differences between the labeled examples from the source domain and the unlabeled examples from the target domain. One major idea of our framework is that we aim at maximizing the likelihood of the observations in the unlabeled data in the target domain, and at the same time, minimizing the difference in the model probability distributions between the source and target domains. As a result, the adapted MLN is tailored to the target domain, but it does not deviate far from the source MLN. We have conducted extensive experiments on two different text mining tasks, namely, pronoun resolution and citation matching, showing consistent improvements in the performance of our adapted model. © 2010 IEEE.

We investigate an approach of accommodating new logic relations, represented in Markov Logic Networks (MLN), from a source domain to a target domain automatically. One characteristic of this problem setting is that logic relations, which are expressed as logic formulae, previously prepared for the source domain dealing with a text mining application are not sufficient for the target domain. Therefore, new logic formulae for the target domain are automatically discovered by capturing the core logic relations for both domains and the candidate relations in the target domain using the unlabeled data in the target domain. Experimental results demonstrate that the new formulae discovered improve the performance on the target domain. © 2010 IEEE.

The difference in distributions between datasets from different domains, such as different information sources, hinders the direct application of a learned model from one domain to another. We have developed a framework for the adaptation of relational logic models, in particular, Markov Logic Network (MLN), from a source domain to a target domain solving the same task using only unlabeled data in the target domain. In our proposed framework, we modify the model from two aspects, the dependency information across the two domains and within the target domain. First, the relational logic models of the two domains should share certain amount of similarities due to the same goal and similar nature of the data. Hence, we perform model adaptation by penalizing the difference in the two domains and jointly maximizing the likelihood of the target domain and minimizing the difference between the source and the target domain MLNs. Second, closely related information appeared within the target domain is used as additional clues in resolving ambiguous decision making. Potential ambiguity of the model is identified and is refined through incorporating such closely related information. As a result, the adapted model is tailored to the target domain. Our experimental results demonstrate that our adaptation framework is able to improve the performance on the target domain.

The phonological system before Middle Chinese has long been a mystery ever since the beginning of the study of Chinese historical phonology. The Qīng scholars were the pioneers who conducted systematic investigations into the phonological system of the history of Chinese. On the study of rhyming, descriptive statistics was usually applied to test the distinction between rhymes. However, simple comparison of a fixed threshold to the ratio of rhyming distinctions weakens the objectiveness of their study. Previous studies have made tremendous contributions to the research on the rhyming categorisation by verse in pre-Middle Chinese, but different conclusions were often drawn from the same material since subjective experience was inevitably involved. Therefore, no objective standard is observed and thus controversies between different scholars always arise. Recently, ZHŪ Xiăonóng (1989) made use of inferential statistics and developed a scheme to study the rhyming in Northern Sòng Dynasty. In his study, proximity index was applied to determine the probability of indistinct rhymes. After that “t-test” was used to verify the result. By applying inferential statistics on the verse, not only can the corpus be used as circumstantial evidence, but concrete evidence. In this way, the valuable historical documents can be fully utilised. In this research, a systematic investigation using an improved version of the methodology developed by Zhū was applied in the investigation of the rhyming categories in the Wèi-Jìn period so that the verse in this period can be strictly and fully utilised while the phonological system reconstructed by the scholars can be verified with an objective measure. The statistical results generally agree with Professor TING Pang-hsin’s reconstruction. However, for a number of categories, it is found that the rhyming classes already started to separate in the Jìn period, which was not observed by any previous studies.

Wong, Tak Yuen., Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2008., Includes bibliographical references (leaves 29-30)., s in English and Chinese., Chapter 1 --- Introduction --- p.1, Chapter 2 --- Literature Review --- p.6, Chapter 3 --- The Roommate Problem --- p.8, Chapter 4 --- The Existence of Stable Matchings --- p.11, Chapter 5 --- Random Paths to Stability --- p.22, Chapter 6 --- Concluding Remarks --- p.28, http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5893639, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

Wong, Tak Pui., Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2007., Includes bibliographical references (leaves 60-62)., s in English and Chinese., Table of Contents --- p.ii, p.iii, Acknowledgements --- p.iv, Chapter 0 --- Introduction --- p.1, Chapter 1 --- Definitions of Plane Tropical Curves --- p.4, Chapter 1.1 --- Motivation --- p.4, Chapter 1.2 --- As Varieties over the Field of Puiseux Series --- p.7, Chapter 1.3 --- As Varieties over the Tropical Semiring --- p.10, Chapter 1.4 --- A Combinatorial Description of Plane Tropical Curves --- p.16, Chapter 2 --- Properties of Plane Tropical Curves --- p.21, Chapter 2.1 --- The Degree-genus Formula --- p.21, Chapter 2.2 --- Bezout's Theorem --- p.24, Chapter 3 --- Non-Archimedean Amoebas and Patchworking Method --- p.28, Chapter 3.1 --- Computing Amoebas --- p.28, Chapter 3.2 --- Patchworking Method --- p.37, Chapter 3.2.1 --- Maslov's Dequantization --- p.37, Chapter 3.2.2 --- Patchworking Method --- p.39, Chapter 4 --- Mikhalkin's Correspondence Theorem --- p.41, Chapter 4.1 --- Parameterized Plane Tropical Curves --- p.41, Chapter 4.2 --- Statement of the Main Theorem --- p.43, Chapter 4.3 --- Lattice Paths --- p.46, Chapter 4.4 --- Complex Tropical Curves --- p.51, Chapter 4.5 --- Sketch Proof of the Main Theorem --- p.54, Chapter 4.5.1 --- Proof of Lemma 1 --- p.55, Chapter 4.5.2 --- Proof of Lemma 2 --- p.56, Bibliography --- p.60, http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5893357, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

An extension of wrapper adaptation is developed to collectively extract information from multiple Web pages. There exists mutual influence between text fragments of different Web pages and hence they should be considered collectively during extraction. Extending from the dependence model, a framework which can consider the dependence between text fragments within a single Web page and the dependence between text fragments from different pages. One characteristic of this model is that additional information can be incorporated into the model and multiple tasks earl be tackled simultaneously. As a result, a global solution which can optimize the quality of the tasks, at the same time, eliminate the conflict between them can he obtained. Experiments on product feature extraction and hot item mining from multiple auction Web sites have been conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of this framework., One problem of most existing Web information extraction methods is that the extraction knowledge learned from a Web site can only be applied to Web pages from the same site. This thesis first investigates the problem of wrapper adaptation which aims at adapting a wrapper previously learned from a source site to new unseen sites. A dependence model that can model the dependence between text fragments in Web pages is developed. Under this model, two types of text related features are identified. The first type of features is called site invariant features. These features likely remain unchanged in Web pages from different sites in the same domain. The second type of features is called site dependent features. These features are different in Web pages collected from different Web sites, while they are similar in Web pages originated from the same site. Based on this model, two frameworks are developed to solve the wrapper adaptation problem. The first framework is called Information Extraction Knowledge Adaptation using Machine Learning approach (IEKA-ML). Machine learning methods are employed to derive site invariant features from the previously learned extraction knowledge and items previously collected or extracted from the source Web site. Both site dependent features and site invariant features in new sites are considered for learning of new information extraction knowledge tailored to the new unseen site., The second framework, called Information Extraction Knowledge Adaptation using Bayesian learning approach (IEKA-BAYES), solves the problem of wrapper adaptation as well as the issue of new attribute discovery. The new attribute discovery problem aims at extracting new or previously unwell attributes that are not specified in the wrapper. To harness the uncertainty, a probabilistic generative model for the generation of text fragments and layout format related to attributes in Web pages is designed. Bayesian learning and expectation-maximization (EM) techniques are developed under the proposed generative model to accomplish the wrapper adaptation task. Previously unseen attributes together with their semantic labels earl be discovered via another EM-based Bayesian learning on the generative model. Extensive experiments on over 30 real-world Web sites in three different domains and comparison between existing works have been conducted to evaluate the IEKA-ML and IEKA-BAYES frameworks., Wong Tak Lam., "October 2006.", Adviser: Lam Wai., Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 68-09, Section: B, page: 6095., Thesis (Ph.D.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2006., Includes bibliographical references (p. 126-135)., Electronic reproduction. Hong Kong : Chinese University of Hong Kong, [2012] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web., Electronic reproduction. [Ann Arbor, MI] : ProQuest Information and Learning, [200-] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web., in English and Chinese., School code: 1307., isbn: 9780549230762, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

Most wastewater treatment plants yield sewage sludge from the processes of sold-liquid separation through sedimentation as a result of chemical or biological reaction. The amount of sewage sludge produced continues to be increased as the environmental regulations become more stringent and the treatment capacity of wastewater treatment plant enlarges. Therefore, treatment and disposal of sewage sludge becomes an important environmental issue. One of the environmentally acceptable treatment methods is the biological digestion to reduce the volume and to recycle the useful resource of the sewage sludge for the benefit of the community. Anaerobic sludge digestion has been commonly adopted because of several advantages such as the productions of methane as an energy resources and solids residue as a soil conditioner, reduction in mass and volume of sludge, and reduction of odor nuisance and pathogens. The anaerobic process is mainly controlled by the bacteria that are sensitive to pH, substrate composition, temperature and other factors. In order to provide a favorable environment for the microorganisms to survive, it is necessary to have efficient mixing in the anaerobic sludge digester. Three-dimensional (3-D) computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are performed to study the mixing in an egg-shaped anaerobic digester. The mixing is provided by a mechanical draft tube mixer and eight nozzles in the digester. The governing equations used in this study are the 3-D Navier-Stokes equations that describe the conservation of mass and momentum, and the mass diffusion equation to describe the change of volatile solids (VS). The initial and boundary conditions of flow and volatile solids (VS) concentration are given according to the daily operations of the digester. The qualitative velocity and VS concentration fields are computed with a commercial CFD code. Numerical results in terms of periodically steady state flow pattern are presented to demonstrate the development

Wong Tak Kwong., Thesis submitted in: August 2004., Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2005., Includes bibliographical references (leaves 67-72)., s in English and Chinese., Chapter 1 --- Introduction --- p.6, Chapter 1.1 --- Basic Notations --- p.7, Chapter 1.2 --- Riemann Problems --- p.10, Chapter 1.3 --- Elementary Waves --- p.10, Chapter 1.3.1 --- Rarefaction Waves --- p.11, Chapter 1.3.2 --- Shock Waves --- p.11, Chapter 1.3.3 --- Composite Waves --- p.13, Chapter 1.4 --- Remarks --- p.14, Chapter 2 --- Non-strictly Hyperbolic Conservation Laws --- p.16, Chapter 2.1 --- Systems with Isolated Umbilic Degeneracy --- p.16, Chapter 2.1.1 --- Mathematical Motivations --- p.17, Chapter 2.2 --- Complex Burgers' Equation --- p.21, Chapter 2.2.1 --- Introduction --- p.21, Chapter 2.2.2 --- Basic Properties --- p.22, Chapter 2.2.3 --- Riemann Solutions --- p.24, Chapter 2.2.4 --- Under-Compressive Shocks --- p.31, Chapter 3 --- Relaxation Approximation --- p.34, Chapter 3.1 --- Basic Ideas of the Relaxation Approximation --- p.34, Chapter 3.1.1 --- General Settings --- p.35, Chapter 3.1.2 --- Subcharacteristic Condition --- p.36, Chapter 3.2 --- Relaxation of Scalar Conservation Laws --- p.39, Chapter 3.2.1 --- Perturbation Problems --- p.39, Chapter 3.3 --- Jin-Xin Relaxation Systems --- p.42, Chapter 3.3.1 --- Basic Ideas of the Jin-Xin Systems --- p.42, Chapter 3.4 --- Zero-Relaxation Limit --- p.45, Chapter 3.4.1 --- 2x2 Hyperbolic Relaxation Systems --- p.45, Chapter 3.4.2 --- Jin-Xin Relaxation Systems --- p.48, Chapter 4 --- Jin-Xin Relaxation Limit for the Complex Burgers' Equations --- p.51, Chapter 4.1 --- Jin-Xin Relaxation Limit for the UCUI Solutions --- p.52, Chapter 4.1.1 --- Main Statements --- p.52, Chapter 4.1.2 --- Analysis on UCUI Solution --- p.53, Chapter 4.1.3 --- Shock Profiles --- p.56, Chapter 4.1.4 --- Re-scaled Relaxation System --- p.60, Chapter 4.1.5 --- Proof of Theorem 4.1.1.3 --- p.63, Bibliography --- p.67, http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5892409, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

Wong Tak Lam., Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2003., Includes bibliographical references (leaves 88-94)., s in English and Chinese., Chapter 1 --- Introduction --- p.1, Chapter 1.1 --- Wrapper Induction for Semi-structured Web Documents --- p.1, Chapter 1.2 --- Adapting Wrappers to Unseen Web Sites --- p.6, Chapter 1.3 --- Thesis Contributions --- p.7, Chapter 1.4 --- Thesis Organization --- p.8, Chapter 2 --- Related Work --- p.10, Chapter 2.1 --- Related Work on Wrapper Induction --- p.10, Chapter 2.2 --- Related Work on Wrapper Adaptation --- p.16, Chapter 3 --- Automatic Construction of Hierarchical Wrappers --- p.20, Chapter 3.1 --- Hierarchical Record Structure Inference --- p.22, Chapter 3.2 --- Extraction Rule Induction --- p.30, Chapter 3.3 --- Applying Hierarchical Wrappers --- p.38, Chapter 4 --- Experimental Results for Wrapper Induction --- p.40, Chapter 5 --- Adaptation of Wrappers for Unseen Web Sites --- p.52, Chapter 5.1 --- Problem Definition --- p.52, Chapter 5.2 --- Overview of Wrapper Adaptation Framework --- p.55, Chapter 5.3 --- Potential Training Example Candidate Identification --- p.58, Chapter 5.3.1 --- Useful Text Fragments --- p.58, Chapter 5.3.2 --- Training Example Generation from the Unseen Web Site --- p.60, Chapter 5.3.3 --- Modified Nearest Neighbour Classification --- p.63, Chapter 5.4 --- Machine Annotated Training Example Discovery and New Wrap- per Learning --- p.64, Chapter 5.4.1 --- Text Fragment Classification --- p.64, Chapter 5.4.2 --- New Wrapper Learning --- p.69, Chapter 6 --- Case Study and Experimental Results for Wrapper Adapta- tion --- p.71, Chapter 6.1 --- Case Study on Wrapper Adaptation --- p.71, Chapter 6.2 --- Experimental Results --- p.73, Chapter 6.2.1 --- Book Domain --- p.74, Chapter 6.2.2 --- Consumer Electronic Appliance Domain --- p.79, Chapter 7 --- Conclusions and Future Work --- p.83, Bibliography --- p.88, Chapter A --- Detailed Performance of Wrapper Induction for Book Do- main --- p.95, Chapter B --- Detailed Performance of Wrapper Induction for Consumer Electronic Appliance Domain --- p.99, http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5891460, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

There are two essays in this thesis. The theme is the study of microstructure of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (SEHK), an order driven market. Essay 1 is 'An Empirical Investigation of the Limit Order Book of an order driven market'. One of the characteristics of order driven market is that the limit order book is public information available to all traders. The first essay looks into the properties of the limit order book of SEHK. In particular, we make use of the economic concept of price elasticity to summarize the slope information of the bid and ask price schedule of the limit order book. We find that the shape of the bid and ask price schedules is concave. We also find that intraday pattern of the slope is an inverted U-shape. This indicates that demand of stock is relatively inelastic at the open and close of a trading day. Such results lend support to the Brock and Kleidon (1992) model. Essay 2 is 'Comovement of liquidity in an order driven market'. Chordia et al (2000) document the existence of liquidity comovement in NYSE, a quote driven market with market specialists providing liquidity. We make use of both the Chordia et al (2000) market model as well as principal component analysis to study liquidity comovement on the SEHK, an order driven market that does not have a market making institution. Our results confirm that liquidity comovement is a common feature of stock market trading, irrespective of market making arrangements. We also find that liquidity comovement is not a systematic risk priced by the market. However, we caution that a more detailed research should be conducted to look into the possible relationship between stock expected return and liquidity comovement.

As the deployment of wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) transmission facilities speeds up, the next step is to add cross-connects to route WDM signals, Electro-optical directional couplers (DCs) are well suited for the task since they can pass WDM signals, However, DCs suffer an intrinsic crosstalk problem. Removing crosstalk has been an important design issue. In this paper, we show how to take advantage of the multiple-wavelength characteristic of a WDM signal to reduce crosstalk in a DC-hased photonic switching system.

One common theme in desiging optical switches is crosstalk reduction. Althouth this is a device level problem, it can also be solved at the system level. One approach is to use more switching elements. This is so called "space approach". In the paper we show how to take advantage of the multiple-wavelength characteristic of a WDM signal to reduce crosstalk without adding more switching elements. Although we use directional-couplers photonic switching technologies for our discussion, the principle can be used for any photonic switching technologies.

Voronoi tessellation was known a long time ago. A centroidal Voronoi tessellation (CVT) is a special type of Voronoi tessellation that the Voronoi points (generators) are mass centers of the corresponding Voronoi regions. This brings the optimization properties to CVT and the properties can be applied to problems of image compression, optimal quadrature rules, etc. This paper is concerned with the methods of finding CVT. First, some properties and theoretical results of CVT are shown. Since it is difficult to find the CVT theoretically in general, k-means method and Lloyd method will be introduced so that we can find the CVT numerically. The efficiency and the accuracy of both methods will be compared.

In recent years, there has been significant research and development effort for Third-generation or 3G wireless and mobile communication systems. Such systems will be able to provide end-user multimedia services data rates of up to 384 kbps for wide area coverage and up to 2 Mbps for local area coverage. They will also significantly expand the range of options available to users and allow communication, information, multimedia and entertainment services to be delivered via wireless terminals. Of the various air interfaces, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) has been regarded as an important part of the third generation systems because of its high frequency utilization and suitability for handling multimedia communications. Due to its inherent multiple access interference, the performance of CDMA can be severely degraded as the number of subscribers increases. To fully utilize the potential of wideband CDMA systems, multiuser detection can be used. In recent years, multiuser detection has been subject to extensive research and various schemes have been proposed. In this thesis, we will investigate and analyze the performance of multiuser multistage interference cancellation in wideband CDMA system where the bandwidth expansion factor is very small due to the high rate transmission required in the bandwidth limited wireless channel. It is observed that the effectiveness of multiuser interference cancellation depends on the correct estimation of the amount of interference. It is therefore clear that we must have good data estimates. To do so, we combine the multistage interference cancellation with Viterbi decoding, which we shall refer to as joint successive interference cancellation (JSIC) where Viterbi decoding is included in each step of the multistage interference cancellation scheme. Obviously, a key disadvantage of this scheme is the receiver complexity and delay. To reduce the amount of complexity and delays, a memory truncated Viterbi decoder must be employe

As the deployment of wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) transmission facilities speeds up, it is a natural step to design a WDM crossconnect to route the WDM traffic. One of the switching devices that can pass WDM signals is the electro-optical directional coupler. However, directional couplers, as a photonic switching device, suffer from an intrinsic problem: crosstalk. How to remove the crosstalk at the system level has been an active research topic. Past results have shown that by using more couplers, crosstalk can be reduced to an insignificant level. This is referred to as the space dilation approach. However, with WDM signals, we showed in this research that most of the additional hardware required by the space dilation approach is not needed. Crosstalk can be removed by taking advantage of the multiple-wavelength nature of signals. This is referred to as the wavelength dilation approach.

In this paper, we investigate and analyze the performance of multiuser multistage interference cancellation in a multirate wideband Direct-Sequence Code Division Multiple Access (DS/CDMA) communication system where the overall bandwidth expansion due to spread spectrum processing gain and channel coding cannot be too large due to limitation in the available channel bandwidth. In particular, two multistage interference cancellation methods will be considered and the effect of channel coding on such schemes will be investigated.

by Wong Tak Chuen., Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1999., Includes bibliographical references (leaves 106-108)., s in English and Chinese., ACKNOWLEDGMENT --- p.iii, LIST OF TABLES --- p.iv, LIST OF ILLUSTRATION --- p.v, CHAPTER, Chapter ONE --- INTRODUCTION --- p.1, Chapter TWO --- THE LITERATURE REVIEW --- p.2, Chapter THREE --- METHODOLOGY --- p.8, Error Correction Model, Unit-Root Tests, Cointegration Tests, Structural Break Test, Chapter FOUR --- MODEL SPECIFICATION AND SIMULATION --- p.19, Chapter FIVE --- SIMULATION ANALYSIS --- p.45, Chapter SIX --- CONCLUSION --- p.51, TABLES --- p.53, ILLUSTRATIONS --- p.67, APPENDIX --- p.81, Chapter A --- THE ESTIMATED MODEL, Chapter B --- DATA DESCRIPTION, BIBLIOGRAPHY --- p.109, http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5889891, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

by Wong Tak Ming., Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1997., Includes bibliographical references (leaves 74-77)., Contents --- p.i, Acknowledgments --- p.iii, p.iv, Abbreviations --- p.v, Chapter Chapter 1. --- Introduction, Chapter 1.1. --- General background on conducting polymers and oligomers --- p.1, Chapter 1.2. --- Conjugated oligomers and polymers --- p.3, Chapter 1.2.1 --- Theory of conducting polymers, Chapter 1.2.2 --- Oligo- and poly-(p-phenylene)s, Chapter 1.2.3 --- Oligo and poly(phenylenevinylene)s, Chapter 1.2.4 --- Oligo and poly(phenylenethynylene)s, Chapter 1.3. --- Synthesis and solubilization of structurally rigid conjugated oligomers by dendritication --- p.19, Chapter 1.4. --- Introduction of dendrimer chemistry --- p.20, Chapter Chapter 2. --- Results and discussion, Chapter 2.1. --- An accelerated approach to the synthesis of oligo(phenylenevinylene)s -preparation of the propagating dimeric unit72 --- p.25, Chapter 2.2. --- Synthesis of the polyether dendritic fragments --- p.29, Chapter 2.3. --- Attempted coupling reactions between the polyether dendrimer and the propagating unit72 --- p.32, Chapter 2.4. --- Synthesis and characterization of dendritic-solubilized oligo-(phenylenethynylene)s (OPE) --- p.34, Chapter 2.4.1 --- Synthesis of conjugated propagating units, Chapter 2.4.2 --- Characterization of conjugated propagating units, Chapter 2.5. --- Synthesis and characterization of dendritic-solubilized oligo-(phenylenethynylene) fragments dendrimerized at one end --- p.39, Chapter 2.5.1 --- Synthesis, Chapter 2.5.2 --- Characterization, Chapter 2.6. --- Synthesis and characterization of oligo(phenylenethynylene)s dendrimerized at both ends --- p.43, Chapter 2.6.1 --- Synthesis, Chapter 2.6.2 --- Purification and characterization, Chapter 2.6.3 --- Solubility and physical appearance, Chapter Chapter 3. --- Summary --- p.49, Chapter Chapter 4. --- Experimental section --- p.50, References --- p.74, List of spectra --- p.78, http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5889187, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

One of the marvels of Chinese ancient scientific discovery is the mythical vessel of Dragon Wash or Fish Wash. In simple terms, the Dragon Wash is a brass wash basin with two hollow handles. With the Dragon Wash half filled with water, whell the handles are rubbed with hands, quite regular stamling wave patterns appear on the water surface. With more vigorous rubbing, myriad of water jets emanate from the crests of the water waves. The phenomena is quite dramatic. In the following, we shall first formulate the problem, and carry out the linear analysis. Then we shall try to relate the solutions of the linear problem to the pattern of waves observed in reality. Finally we shall develop a nonlinear theory to account for the appearance of the low frequency, axisyinmetric waves.

by Wong, Tak-yee Tammy., Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1995., Includes bibliographical references (leaves 170-178)., p.i-iii, ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS --- p.iv-v, TABLE OF CONTENTS --- p.vi-x, LIST OF FIGURES --- p.xi-xii, LIST OF PLATES --- p.xiii-ix, LIST OF TABLES --- p.x-xii, Chapter CHAPTER I: --- INTRODUCTION --- p.1, Chapter 1.1 --- Introduction --- p.1, Chapter 1.2 --- Research Questions --- p.5, Chapter 1.3 --- Study Significance --- p.7, Chapter 1.4 --- Organization of the Thesis --- p.8, Chapter CHAPTER II: --- LITERATURE REVIEW --- p.10, Chapter 2.1 --- Introduction --- p.10, Chapter 2.2 --- Nature of Landslides --- p.10, Chapter 2.2.1 --- Landslide Classification --- p.10, Chapter 2.2.2 --- Morphometry of Landslides --- p.12, Chapter 2.2.3 --- Factors Affecting Landslide Occurrence --- p.16, Chapter 2.2.3.1 --- Gradient --- p.19, Chapter 2.2.3.2 --- Slope Shape --- p.21, Chapter 2.2.3.3 --- Aspect --- p.22, Chapter 2.2.3.4 --- Vegetation --- p.24, Chapter 2.2.3.5 --- Drainage --- p.26, Chapter 2.2.3.6 --- Precipitation/Seismicity --- p.26, Chapter 2.2.3.7 --- Lithology and Geological Influences --- p.28, Chapter 2.2.3.8 --- Regolith --- p.29, Chapter 2.2.3.8.1 --- Hydrological Properties of Soils --- p.29, Chapter 2.2.3.8.2 --- Engineering Properties of Soils --- p.30, Chapter 2.3 --- Data Sources for Landslide Studies --- p.31, Chapter 2.3.1 --- Aerial Photo Interpretation (API) --- p.32, Chapter 2.3.2 --- Remote Sensing --- p.34, Chapter 2.3.3 --- Field Survey --- p.35, Chapter 2.3.4 --- Subsurface Investigation --- p.36, Chapter 2.4 --- Landslide Studies in Hong Kong --- p.36, Chapter 2.5 --- Applications of GIS on Landslide Studies --- p.38, Chapter 2.5.1 --- Major Data in GIS for Landslide Studies --- p.39, Chapter 2.5.1.1 --- Triangulated Irregular Network (TIN) as a Representation of Surface --- p.39, Chapter 2.5.2 --- Applications --- p.42, Chapter 2.5.2.1 --- Inventory --- p.43, Chapter 2.5.2.2 --- Landslide Hazard Assessment --- p.43, Chapter 2.5.2.2.1 --- Statistical Modeling --- p.46, Chapter 2.5.2.2.2 --- Physical Processes or Three- Dimensional Modeling --- p.50, Chapter 2.6 --- Suggestions for Future Research Directions --- p.51, Chapter CHAPTER III: --- STUDY AREA --- p.54, Chapter 3.1 --- Location and Choice of Study Area --- p.54, Chapter 3.2 --- Climatic Aspects --- p.56, Chapter 3.3 --- Geological Aspects --- p.62, Chapter 3.3.1 --- General Information of GASP V --- p.62, Chapter 3.3.2 --- Rock Types Specific to the Two Sites Chosen --- p.63, Chapter 3.3.2.1 --- Volcanic Units - Repulse Bay Formation --- p.65, Chapter 3.3.2.2 --- Sedimentary Units - Port Island Formation (PI) --- p.65, Chapter 3.4 --- Geomorphological Aspects --- p.66, Chapter 3.4.1 --- General Information of GASP V --- p.66, Chapter 3.5 --- Erosion and Stability --- p.67, Chapter 3.6 --- Vegetation --- p.67, Chapter 3.7 --- Summary --- p.70, Chapter CHAPTER IV: --- DATABASE CONSTRUCTION AND MANIPULATION --- p.71, Chapter 4.1 --- Data Collection --- p.73, Chapter 4.1.1 --- Aerial Photo Interpretation (API) --- p.73, Chapter 4.1.1.1 --- Landslip Inventory --- p.75, Chapter 4.1.2 --- Field Techniques --- p.78, Chapter 4.1.2.1 --- Slope Failure/Deposit Field Survey sheet --- p.78, Chapter 4.1.2.2 --- Collection of Landslide Data --- p.79, Chapter 4.1.3 --- Collection of Existing Data --- p.80, Chapter 4.1.3.1 --- 1:5000 Topographic Maps --- p.80, Chapter 4.1.3.2 --- Terrain Classification --- p.81, Chapter 4.1.3.3 --- WWF Vegetation Database --- p.85, Chapter 4.2 --- Data Input and Conversion --- p.86, Chapter 4.2.1 --- Digitizing of Data --- p.87, Chapter 4.2.1.1 --- Landslip Capture in Stereocord --- p.87, Chapter 4.2.1.2 --- Data Conversion --- p.94, Chapter 4.2.1.2.1 --- Topographic Maps - Scanning and Vectorization --- p.94, Chapter 4.3 --- Data Editing --- p.94, Chapter 4.3.1 --- Line Cleaning for Landslide Coverage --- p.96, Chapter 4.3.2 --- Line Cleaning and Height Tagging for Topographic Map --- p.96, Chapter 4.3.3 --- Editing on Terrain Classification Map --- p.97, Chapter 4.4 --- Database Construction --- p.97, Chapter 4.4.1 --- Data Base Design --- p.97, Chapter 4.4.1.1 --- Graphical Data Base --- p.98, Chapter 4.4.1.2 --- Attribute Data Base --- p.99, Chapter 4.4.2 --- Creation of a Triangulated Irregular Network (TIN) --- p.104, Chapter 4.5 --- Data Preparation and Pre-analysis Manipulation --- p.105, Chapter 4.5.1 --- Extraction of Terrain Variables from TIN --- p.105, Chapter 4.5.1.1 --- TIN'S Derived Variable - Elevation --- p.105, Chapter 4.5.1.2 --- TIN'S Derived Variable - Gradient --- p.107, Chapter 4.5.1.3 --- TIN'S Derived Variable - Orientation --- p.109, Chapter 4.5.1.4 --- TIN's Derived Variable - Dimensions (surface distance) of Landslides --- p.109, Chapter 4.5.1.5 --- Micro-DEM and Profile --- p.109, Chapter 4.5.1.6 --- Weighting Method Adopted in Calculating the Gradient and Orientation of Primary Depletion Scar --- p.110, Chapter 4.5.2 --- Data Preprocessing --- p.110, Chapter 4.6 --- Summary --- p.114, Chapter CHAPTER V: --- STATISTICAL ANALYSIS OF LANDSLIDE DISTRIBUTION --- p.115, Chapter 5.1 --- Sampling --- p.116, Chapter 5.1.1 --- Sampling Frame --- p.116, Chapter 5.1.1.1 --- Simple Random Point Sampling --- p.117, Chapter 5.1.1.2 --- Stratified Random Point Sampling --- p.117, Chapter 5.2 --- Comparison of the Two Study Areas --- p.119, Chapter 5.3 --- Statistical Analyses of Landslip Variables --- p.123, Chapter 5.3.1 --- Gradient (TIN) and Elevation --- p.124, Chapter 5.3.2 --- "Aspect, Geological Materials, Gradient, Terrain Component, Erosion & Instability, and Vegetation" --- p.126, Chapter 5.3.2.1 --- Aspect --- p.127, Chapter 5.3.2.2 --- Geological Materials --- p.130, Chapter 5.3.2.3 --- Gradient --- p.132, Chapter 5.3.2.4 --- Terrain Component --- p.137, Chapter 5.3.2.5 --- Erosion and Instability --- p.140, Chapter 5.3.2.6 --- WWF Vegetation --- p.140, Chapter 5.3.3 --- Result of the Partial Model --- p.145, Chapter 5.4 --- Logistic Regression Model --- p.147, Chapter 5.4.1 --- Landslide Probability Mapping --- p.154, Chapter 5.4.2 --- Testing the Model Output --- p.157, Chapter 5.5 --- Summary --- p.161, Chapter CHAPTER VI: --- CONCLUSIONS --- p.162, Chapter 6.1 --- Summary of Findings --- p.162, Chapter 6.2 --- Limitations of the Study --- p.163, Chapter 6.3 --- Recommendations for Further Studies --- p.166, BIBLOGRAPHY --- p.167, APPENDICES, "APPENDIX I Draft 3.3 slope failure/deposit field survey sheet (King, 1994a)", "APPENDIX II Landslide/deposit field description sheet (King, 1994b)", "APPENDIX III Hourly rainfall (mm) record at N05 in September 26-27，1993 (Source: Special Projects Division, Geotechnical Engineering Office, Civil Engineering Department)", "APPENDIX IV Hourly rainfall (mm) record at R23 in September 1993 (Source: Hydrometeorology Section, Royal Observatory, Hong Kong,1993)", "APPENDIX V Hourly rainfall (mm) record at R31 in September 1993 (Source: Hydrometeorology Section, Royal Observatory, Hong Kong,1993)", http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5888435, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

by Wong Tak-Kwong., Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1994., Includes bibliographical references (leaves 76-81)., Chapter 1 --- Introduction --- p.1, Chapter 2 --- Literature Review --- p.7, Chapter 3 --- R&D Activities and Competing for a Researcher --- p.12, Chapter 3.1 --- Licensing Decision of a Successful Innovator --- p.16, Benefits of Firm i with Licensing, Benefits of Firm j with Licensing, Chapter 3.2 --- Competing for the Researcher --- p.23, Characterization of Equilibrium, Chapter 3.3 --- Concluding Remark --- p.29, Chapter 4 --- Innovation from An Independent Researcher --- p.30, Chapter 4.1 --- Licensing with Bargaining --- p.34, Licensing Decision of the Researcher, Licensing Decision of Firm i, Licensing Decision of Firm j, Chapter 4.2 --- Ownership Re-allocation --- p.44, Chapter 4.3 --- Concluding Remark --- p.48, Chapter 5 --- An Analysis of Sequential Innovation --- p.50, Chapter 5.1 --- Choices of Licensing and Conducting R&D --- p.55, Decision of the Follower, Licensing by the Successful Innovator, Chapter 5.2 --- Equilibrium of Sequential R&D --- p.65, Chapter 5.3 --- Simultaneous R&D or Sequential R&D --- p.68, Chapter 5.4 --- Concluding Remark --- p.74, Chapter 6 --- Conclusion --- p.75, Chapter 7 --- Bibliography --- p.76, http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5887202, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

by Wong Tak Hoi., Thesis (M.B.A.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1992., Includes bibliographical references., p.ii, TABLE OF CONTENTS --- p.iii, LIST OF TABLES --- p.v, ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS --- p.vii, Chapter, Chapter I. --- INTRODUCTION --- p.1, Chapter I.1 --- Tourist Industry in Hong Kong --- p.1, Chapter I.2 --- Ojectives of the Project --- p.2, Chapter I.3 --- Aspects of Segmentation Base Adopted in the Project --- p.4, Chapter I.4 --- Overview --- p.5, Chapter II. --- LITERATURE REVIEW --- p.6, Chapter II.1 --- The Physical Attributes --- p.7, Chapter II.1.A --- Geographic --- p.7, Chapter II.1.B --- Demographic --- p.7, Chapter II.l.C --- Socioeconomic --- p.8, Chapter II.2 --- The Behavioral Attributes --- p.8, Chapter II.2.A --- Psychographics and Lifestyle --- p.8, Chapter II.2.B --- Product Usage --- p.9, Chapter II.2.C --- Perceptions and Preferences --- p.10, Chapter II.2.D --- Benefits --- p.10, Chapter III. --- METHODOLOGY --- p.14, Chapter III.1 --- Limitations --- p.16, Chapter IV. --- PROFILE REPORTS --- p.18, Chapter IV.1 --- Product Profile Report --- p.18, Chapter IV.1.A --- Strengths of the Hong Kong Souvenir Cup --- p.18, Chapter IV.1.B --- Weaknesses of the Hong Kong Souvenir Cup --- p.19, Chapter IV.2 --- Competitive Profile Report --- p.19, Chapter IV.3 --- Customer Profile Report --- p.20, Chapter V. --- RESULTS --- p.21, Chapter V.1 --- Findings and Analysis Related to the Group which Decided to Buy the Souvenir Cup as/Expected it to be Used as an Ornament --- p.21, Chapter V.2 --- Findings and Analysis Related to the Group which Decided to Buy the Souvenir Cup for/Expected it to be Used for Drinking Tea or Coffee --- p.25, Chapter V.3 --- Findings and Analysis Related to the Miscellaneous Group which does not Know How the Souvenir Cup is Going to be Used --- p.30, Chapter V.4 --- General Information about the Tourists --- p.34, Chapter VI. --- MARKETING STRATEGY --- p.37, Chapter VI.1 --- Target Segment --- p.37, Chapter VI.2 --- Product Strategy --- p.38, Chapter VI.3 --- Pricing Strategy --- p.39, Chapter VI.4 --- Distribution Strategy --- p.39, Chapter VI.5 --- Promotional Strategy --- p.40, Chapter VII. --- CONCLUSION --- p.42, APPENDIX I Exploratory phase questionnaire (English version) --- p.43, APPENDIX II Descriptive phase questionnaire (English version) --- p.46, APPENDIX III Descriptive phase questionnaire (Chinese version) --- p.49, APPENDIX IV Drawing of Hong Kong souvenir cup --- p.52, BIBLIOGRAPHY --- p.53, http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5887127, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

Kinematic and dynamic wave characteristics in bubbly two-phase flows are investigated. Using the same set of basic equations, kinematic and dynamic wave characteristics in a one-dimensional flow system were simultaneously obtained. A simple linear model was used so that the response of the flow to oscillatory perturbations of frequency [Omega] was studied. Explicit asymptotic solutions for the wave speeds and attenuations in various relative velocity and frequency regimes were obtained. Numerical analyses were carried out to investigate intermediate or transitional values of the parameters. The regimes of validity for a number of conventional wave propagation models (drift-flux model and acoustic wave analysis) were explored by using the present results. It was observed that for most engineering bubbly two-phase flows of concern, the inertial effects, which are commonly neglected in many existing models, should be included for better accuracy in prediction of wave characteristics.

by Wong Tak-ching., Bibliography: p. 136-139, Thesis (M.Ph.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1985, http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5885582, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

Summary in Chinese., Thesis (M.B.A.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong., Bibliography: l. 91., http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5887411, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

by Lau Kwok Shun, Wong Tak Sing., Thesis (M.B.A.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1988., Bibliography: leaves 69-71., http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5885873, Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International” License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)