Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Trace Boron on Corrosion Resistance of the Casted 0.04C-16Cr Ferritic Stainless Steels in H2SO4 Medium

Three groups of 0.04C-16Cr ferritic stainless steels, with boron quality score of 0ppm, 16ppm and 26ppm, were smelted by a vacuum induction furnace. The chemical soak method, the tafel polarization curve method and the anode circular polarization curve method were used to research their general corrosion and intergranular corrosion resistance. The results showed that both general corrosion and intergranular corrosion of the casted 0.04C-16Cr ferritic stainless steels happened in dilute H2SO4 medium. The resuluts of electrochemical and chemical soak indicate that the addition of B improves intergranular corrosion resistance of 0.04C-16Cr stainless steel, moreover, the intergranular corrosion resistance increases with an increasing content of B. The addtion of B makes the general corrosion rate and self-corrosion current density of the 0.04 C-16Cr stainless steel reduced at active dissolution region in dilute sulphuric acid medium, so the general corrosion resistance of the 0.04 C-16Cr stainless steel is improved. The blunt-dimensional current density of the steel with 26ppm B is the lowest and the passivation zone of it is wider, so the stability of passive film and protection capacity of the steel with 26ppm B are the best. The electrochemical characteristics of general corrosion coincided with the results of soak corrosion.
Two-dimensional imaging of a helicon discharge

Two-dimensional images of the ionized argon light of a helicon discharge are made both along and across the magnetic field with various antenna configurations. Two antennas, a Nagoya type III and a helical antenna, are used to create a magnetized RF plasma with density in the range . A CCD camera with a 488 nm bandpass filter is used to image the plasma as magnetic field and power are changed. By inserting a Faraday shield, it is demonstrated that the inductive component of the antenna coupling is responsible for producing high-density plasmas. Asymmetries in the plasma profile are shown to be caused primarily by capacitive coupling, with the purely inductively coupled plasmas being symmetric and centrally peaked. Numerical calculations of antenna coupling show that the configurations having the largest antenna loading correspond to the brightest plasmas observed in the experiment, with the m=+1 mode being the most strongly coupled.
Shape deformations with meaningful parameters and constraints

The emerged computer-aided industrial design (CAID) systems gain increasing popularity among industrial designers. Despite the large number of deformation techniques already implemented in commercial systems or described in the literature, these techniques still lack in providing designers with meaningful shape deformations tools. In this work, we address this issue through the allocation of meaningful parameters and constraints to support specific shape deformations. Therefore, we introduce the concept of a shape context, which incorporates specific parameters, constraints and shape variation procedures that helps designers to quicker reach a desired shape. A shape design tool, MAPTool, has been developed based on the shape context concept. MAPTool helps designers to reach different shapes using one shape deformation through the alteration of its two meaningful parameters. Two product models developed using MAPTool are shown. Finally, we conclude that providing designers with meaningful parameters based on the shape context proves to be very promising.
Part 2. Physical Basis of Protein NMR Section 1. Theory of Fourier Transform Pulse NMR Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, the detection of the Zeeman levels of nuclear spins in bulk condensed phase by resonant method through electromagnetic means,

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, the detection of the Zeeman levels of nuclear spins in bulk condensed phase by resonant method through electromagnetic means, was pioneered by two research groups headed by Felix Bloch (Bloch et al., 1946a) and Edward M. Purcell (Purcell et al., 1946), respectively. It has since become an important experimental tool for physicists, chemists and more recently for structural biologists as well as radiologists (medical diagnosis). Its wide applications are made possible by continuous improvement in experimental techniques and advances in theory. The former is stimulated by technological breakthroughs in other fields such as electronics, computer science (e.g. fast Fourier transformation algorithm and the sophisticated controls of experimental parameters), and the manufacturing of stable high field superconducting magnets. The latter takes advantage of the weakness of the interactions involving nuclear spins. In addition to making it relatively easy to manipulate the interaction Hamiltonian through experimental methods such as radio frequency pulses the weakness also justifies the treatment of the evolution of the states of a spin system by perturbation methods. The simplicity of the derived mathematical expressions facilitates greatly the development of sophisticated NMR experiments such as those applied to 29 study biological macromolecules. Here, I will summarize the underlying physical principles of NMR, and will show how they can be applied to practical problems especially those in structural biology. Basic equations. Spin, a quantum mechanical phenomenon without classical analogs, can only be treated by quantum mechanics, in principle. However, for an isolated system consisting of non-interacting spins under the influences of a static field H 0 and a rotating external field H 1 (radio-frequency (r. f.) pulse can be decomposed as rotating fields), c.f. C.P. Slitcher) (Rabi et al., 1954), the equation for the expectation value of its total magnetization <M> is the same as that obtained classically. eff dt d H × > < = > < M M γ. (1) where H eff = H 0 +H 1 is a time independent effective field in a frame rotating with the frequency of the r. f. field, γ is the gyromagnetic ratio. Therefore, it is legitimate to treat such a system classically. In reality the spin system is not isolated but interacts with the molecular environment (bath) with all degrees of freedom other than the spins. The interaction causes a decay of the observed magnetization. With the assumptions that the decay is exponential, and …
Recent advances in the pathophysiology of arterial hypertension - potential implications for clinical practice.

Hypertension remains a major and growing public health problem associated with the greatest proportion of global cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality. Although numerous factors contribute to poor blood pressure (BP) control and pseudo-resistance (i.e. unawareness, life-style habits, non-adherence to medication, insufficient treatment, drug-induced hypertension, undiagnosed secondary causes etc.), it is reported that true resistant hypertension (RH) is found in 10.1 % of patients treated for elevated BP. While the mechanisms underlying RH remain complex and not entirely understood, sympathetic activation that lies in hypertension pathophysiology, disease progression and adverse complications is further augmented in patients with drug-RH. The well-established contribution of neurogenic component of hypertension has led to the introduction of new alternative therapies aimed at specifically modulating central and neural reflexes mechanisms involved in BP control. Although clinical benefits of lowering BP with renal denervation (RDN), baroreflex activation therapy (BAT), carotid body denervation (CBD), central arteriovenous (AV) anastomosis and deep brain stimulation (DBS) have advanced our knowledge in uncontrolled hypertension, the variable BP response has attracted great interest and prompted extensive ongoing research to define predictors of treatment effectiveness and further investigate pathophysiology of RH. Very recently, the role of vasopressinergic neurones, masked tachycardia and impaired brain neural activity has provided novel insights into hypertension disease. This review briefly summarizes the role of the centrally-mediated sympathetic nervous system in hypertension, the therapeutic strategies that distinctively target impaired neural reflex mechanisms and potential implications for future clinical research and therapies.
A Novel p-Nitrophenol Degradation Gene Cluster from a Gram-Positive Bacterium, Rhodococcus opacus SAO101

ABSTRACT p-Nitrophenol (4-NP) is recognized as an environmental contaminant; it is used primarily for manufacturing medicines and pesticides. To date, several 4-NP-degrading bacteria have been isolated; however, the genetic information remains very limited. In this study, a novel 4-NP degradation gene cluster from a gram-positive bacterium, Rhodococcus opacus SAO101, was identified and characterized. The deduced amino acid sequences of npcB, npcA, and npcC showed identity with phenol 2-hydroxylase component B (reductase, PheA2) of Geobacillus thermoglucosidasius A7 (32%), with 2,4,6-trichlorophenol monooxygenase (TcpA) of Ralstonia eutropha JMP134 (44%), and with hydroxyquinol 1,2-dioxygenase (ORF2) of Arthrobacter sp. strain BA-5-17 (76%), respectively. The npcB, npcA, and npcC genes were cloned into pET-17b to construct the respective expression vectors pETnpcB, pETnpcA, and pETnpcC. Conversion of 4-NP was observed when a mixture of crude cell extracts of Escherichia coli containing pETnpcB and pETnpcA was used in the experiment. The mixture converted 4-NP to hydroxyquinol and also converted 4-nitrocatechol (4-NCA) to hydroxyquinol. Furthermore, the crude cell extract of E. coli containing pETnpcC converted hydroxyquinol to maleylacetate. These results suggested that npcB and npcA encode the two-component 4-NP/4-NCA monooxygenase and that npcC encodes hydroxyquinol 1,2-dioxygenase. The npcA and npcC mutant strains, SDA1 and SDC1, completely lost the ability to grow on 4-NP as the sole carbon source. These results clearly indicated that the cloned npc genes play an essential role in 4-NP mineralization in R. opacus SAO101.
Coefficients of restitution for elastoplastic oblique impacts

The paper presents results of a finite element analysis of both elastic and elastoplastic oblique impacts of a sphere with a target wall using the DYNA3D code. For elastic oblique impacts, the results are in complete agreement with previous publications. For elastoplastic oblique impacts, the rebound kinematics depend on the normal coefficient of restitution, which is conventionally assumed to be a function of the normal impact velocity irrespective of the impact angle. The results of the finite element simulations of elastoplastic impacts demonstrate that this is not the case.
Photo-bias instability of metal oxide thin film transistors for advanced active matrix displays

Metal oxide optoelectronics is an emerging field that exploits the intriguing properties of the ns orbital-derived isotropic band structure as a replacement for traditional silicon-based electronics in advanced active-matrix information displays. Although the device performance of metal oxide thin film transistors (TFTs) has been substantially improved, the device reliability against external light and gate bias stress remains a critical issue. This paper provides a literature review of light-induced gate bias stress instability in metal oxide TFTs and explain the importance of photo-bias instability in the applications of metal oxide TFTs to optoelectronic device. The rationale of threshold voltage ( V _th) instability under the negative bias illumination stress (NBIS) condition is discussed in detail. The charge trapping/injection model, oxygen vacancy photoionization model, and ambient interaction model are described as plausible degradation mechanisms. Finally, the possible approaches to prevent NBIS-induced V _th instability are proposed based on an understanding of the NBIS instability.
Parametric computation predicts a multiplicative interaction between synaptic strength parameters that control gamma oscillations

Gamma oscillations are thought to be critical for a number of behavioral functions, they occur in many regions of the brain and through a variety of mechanisms. Fast repetitive bursting (FRB) neurons in layer 2 of the cortex are able to drive gamma oscillations over long periods of time. Even though the oscillation is driven by FRB neurons, strong feedback within the rest of the cortex must modulate properties of the oscillation such as frequency and power. We used a highly detailed model of the cortex to determine how a cohort of 33 parameters controlling synaptic drive might modulate gamma oscillation properties. We were interested in determining not just the effects of parameters individually, but we also wanted to reveal interactions between parameters beyond additive effects. To prevent a combinatorial explosion in parameter combinations that might need to be simulated, we used a fractional factorial design (FFD) that estimated the effects of individual parameters and two parameter interactions. This experiment required only 4096 model runs. We found that the largest effects on both gamma power and frequency came from a complex interaction between efficacy of synaptic connections from layer 2 inhibitory neurons to layer 2 excitatory neurons and the parameter for the reciprocal connection. As well as the effect of the individual parameters determining synaptic efficacy, there was an interaction between these parameters beyond the additive effects of the parameters alone. The magnitude of this effect was similar to that of the individual parameters, predicting that it is physiologically important in setting gamma oscillation properties.
Analysis of Mechanical Properties of Individual Phases in Steels by Depth Sensing Indentation

The macroscopic mechanical properties of steel are highly dependent upon microstructure, morphology, and distribution of each phase present. Nanomechanical testing (Depth sensing indentation) provides a straightforward solution for quantitatively characterizing each of these phases because it is very powerful technique for characterization of materials in small volumes. Measuring the intrinsic properties of each phase separately in multiphase materials gives information that is valuable for the development of new materials and for modelling [1]. In this work, depth sensing indentation has been used to reveal mechanical properties of different phases in steel sheets.
Review Paper: Implementing Syndromic Surveillance: A Practical Guide Informed by the Early Experience

Syndromic surveillance refers to methods relying on detection of individual and population health indicators that are discernible before confirmed diagnoses are made. In particular, prior to the laboratory confirmation of an infectious disease, ill persons may exhibit behavioral patterns, symptoms, signs, or laboratory findings that can be tracked through a variety of data sources. Syndromic surveillance systems are being developed locally, regionally, and nationally. The efforts have been largely directed at facilitating the early detection of a covert bioterrorist attack, but the technology may also be useful for general public health, clinical medicine, quality improvement, patient safety, and research. This report, authored by developers and methodologists involved in the design and deployment of the first wave of syndromic surveillance systems, is intended to serve as a guide for informaticians, public health managers, and practitioners who are currently planning deployment of such systems in their regions.
Genes Encoding Carbocycle-Forming Enzymes Involved in Aminoglycoside Biosynthesis in Deep-Sea Environmental DNA

We obtained 19 individual DNA fragments encoding 2-deoxy-scyllo-inosose synthase involved in the biosynthesis of aminoglycoside antibiotics from deep-sea sediments of the Pacific Ocean. Compared with genes from land-based environmental DNA, they showed low diversity. Combined with our previous study concerning the discovery of other aminoglycoside-biosynthetic genes from the same deep-sea samples, we suggest the importance of exploration of multiple biosynthetic genes to determine the diversity of aminoglycoside producers. We found that the deep sea is a useful source for screening of these genes.
Electrocaloric Materials for Solid‐State Refrigeration

The electrocaloric effect (ECE) in dielectric materials has great potential in realizing solid‐state cooling devices with compact size and high efficiency, which are highly desirable for a broad range of applications. This paper presents the general considerations for dielectric materials to achieve large ECE and reviews the experimental efforts investigating ECE in various polar dielectrics. For practical cooling devices, an ECE material must possess a large isothermal entropy change besides a large adiabatic temperature change. We show that polar dielectrics operated at temperatures near order–disorder transition have potential to achieve large ECE due to the possibility of large change in polarization induced by electric field and large entropy change associated with the polarization change. We further show that indeed the ferroelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride–trifluoroethylene)‐based polymers display a large ECE, i.e., an isothermal entropy change of more than 55 J (kgK)−1 and an adiabatic temperature change of more than 12 °C, at temperatures above the order–disorder transition.
Dual Action of Antimonial Drugs on Thiol Redox Metabolism in the Human Pathogen Leishmania donovani*

Despite extensive use of antimonial compounds in the treatment of leishmaniasis, their mode of action remains uncertain. Here we show that trivalent antimony (SbIII) interferes with trypanothione metabolism in drug-sensitive Leishmania parasites by two inherently distinct mechanisms. First, SbIII decreases thiol buffering capacity by inducing rapid efflux of intracellular trypanothione and glutathione in approximately equimolar amounts. Second, SbIII inhibits trypanothione reductase in intact cells resulting in accumulation of the disulfide forms of trypanothione and glutathione. These two mechanisms combine to profoundly compromise the thiol redox potential in both amastigote and promastigote stages of the life cycle. Furthermore, we demonstrate that sodium stibogluconate, a pentavalent antimonial used clinically for the treatment for leishmaniasis, induces similar effects on thiol redox metabolism in axenically cultured amastigotes. These observations suggest ways in which current antimony therapies could be improved, overcoming the growing problem of antimony resistance.
Energy-Efficient Resource Utilization for Heterogeneous Embedded Computing Systems

In this paper, the joint optimization problem with energy efficiency and effective resource utilization is investigated for heterogeneous and distributed multi-core embedded systems. The system model is considered to be fully a heterogeneous model, that is, all nodes have different maximum speeds and power consumption levels from the perspective of hardware while they can employ different scheduling strategies from the perspective of applications. Since the concerned problem by nature is a multi-constrained and multi-variable optimization problem in which a closed-form solution cannot be obtained, our aim is to propose a power allocation and load balancing strategy based on Lagrange theory. Furthermore, when the problem cannot be fully solved by Lagrange approach, a data fitting method is employed to obtain core speed first, and then load balancing schedule is solved by Lagrange method. Several numerical examples are given to show the effectiveness of the proposed method and to demonstrate the impact of each factor to the present optimization system. Finally, simulation and practical evaluations show that the theoretical results are consistent with the practical results. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that combines load balancing, energy efficiency, hardware heterogeneity and application heterogeneity in heterogeneous and distributed embedded systems.
Physiological energetics of juvenile clams Ruditapes decussatus in a high CO 2 coastal ocean

Effects of coastal ocean acidification, other than calcification, were tested on juvenile clams Ruditapes decussatus during a controlled CO2 perturbation experiment. The carbonate chem- istry of natural (control) seawater was manipulated by injecting CO2 to attain 2 reduced pH levels (-0.4 and -0.7 pH units) as compared with the control seawater. After 87 d of exposure, we found that the acidification conditions tested in this experiment significantly reduced the clearance, ingestion and respiration rates, and increased the ammonia excretion rate of R. decussatus seeds. Reduced ingestion combined with increased excretion is generally associated with a reduced energy input, which will likely contribute to a slower growth of the clams in a future high CO2 coastal ocean. These results emphasize the need for management policies to mitigate the adverse effects of global change on aquaculture, which is an economically relevant activity in most coastal areas worldwide.
MyHealthAssistant: An Event-driven Middleware for Multiple Medical Applications on a Smartphone-Mediated Body Sensor Network

An ever-growing range of wireless sensors for medical monitoring has shown that there is significant interest in monitoring patients in their everyday surroundings. It however remains a challenge to merge information from several wireless sensors and applications are commonly built from scratch. This paper presents a middleware targeted for medical applications on smartphone-like platforms that relies on an event-based design to enable flexible coupling with changing sets of wireless sensor units, while posing only a minor overhead on the resources and battery capacity of the interconnected devices. We illustrate the requirements for such middleware with three different healthcare applications that were deployed with our middleware solution, and characterize the performance with energy consumption, overhead caused for the smartphone, and processing time under real-world circumstances. Results show that with sensing-intensive applications, our solution only minimally impacts the phone's resources, with an added CPU utilization of 3% and a memory usage under 7 MB. Furthermore, for a minimum message delivery ratio of 99.9%, up to 12 sensor readings per second are guaranteed to be handled, regardless of the number of applications using our middleware.
Impact of Metallurgical Size Effects on Plasticity of Thin Metallic Materials

Three examples involving size effects are presented with implications concerning the formability: small Ni-20wt. %Cr resistive bridges, magnetic micro-sensors performed with (Ni, Co, Fe) based alloys and copper clad aluminum thin wires. The mechanical properties are directly linked to the ratio thickness over grain size (t/d ratio) of the parts. These metallurgical considerations must be taken into account when we are concerned by the numerical simulation of the process of such components. It is shown that the simulations can correctly reproduce the softening effect linked to a decrease in thickness and in number of grains across the thickness: the quality of the final shape strongly depends on the number of grains across the thickness. Finally the effect of a moderate increase in temperature on these results will be briefly reported.