Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
PREDICTION OF DROPLET SIZE IN DISPERSED PHASE OF IMMISCIBLE POLYMER BLENDS DURING MOLTEN MIXING

From a theoretical background similar to that of Ghodgaonkar’s, using a general description of breakup and the Smoluchowski theory of coalescence of droplets,a relation has been derived for estimating the dispersed phase droplet size during mixing of polymer blends in the steady state.The influences of dispersed phase concentration,shear rate and elasticity of polymers are studied.In a less concentrated system,the diameter of the droplets increases linearly with their concentration.In a more concentrated system,the coalescence effects become increasingly important,the simultaneous collisions of three and more droplets should be considered and the drop diameter versus concentration dependence becomes more complicated.In PS(dispersed)/PP(matrix) blend system,it was observed that the drop diameter continued to decrease up to a maximum shear rate of 128 s -1 . In PS(matrix)/PP(dispersed) blend system,however,as the shear rate increased,the drop diameter initially decreased.At a critical shear rate,the diameter reached a minimum value,and beyond it,the diameter increased with shear.The elasticity of polymers plays a crucial role.
Immediate Implants: Clinical Guidelines for Esthetic Outcomes

Research has shown that tooth loss results in morphological changes in alveolar ridge that may influence the subsequent implant placement. Immediate implant placement was introduced as a possible means to limit bone resorption and reduce the number of surgical procedures following tooth extraction. Histological and clinical evidence from human clinical studies showing efficacy of immediate implants has come to light over the last decade or so. However, immediate implant placement is a challenging surgical procedure and requires proper case selection and surgical technique. Furthermore, there appears to be a lack of clinical guidelines for immediate implant placement case selection. Therefore, the aim of this mini-review is to analyze critical evidence from human studies in order to establish clinical guidelines which may help clinicians in case selection when considering immediate implant placement protocol.
Dependence of heat build-up of tire on temperature and frequency

The heat build-up of 10 rubber compounds in a radial tire was investigated.The curves of heat build-up vs temperature or frequency for 10 compounds were respectively obtained by measu-ring the dynamic mechanical properties;and then the dual regression analysis was made to obtain the equations for the dependence of heat build-up of 10 compounds on temperature and frequency.The obtained equations could be used to quantitatively analyze the hysteresis heat source of tire temperature field.
Mitochondrial DNA Reveals Genetic Structuring of Pinna nobilis across the Mediterranean Sea

Pinna nobilis is the largest endemic Mediterranean marine bivalve. During past centuries, various human activities have promoted the regression of its populations. As a consequence of stringent standards of protection, demographic expansions are currently reported in many sites. The aim of this study was to provide the first large broad-scale insight into the genetic variability of P. nobilis in the area that encompasses the western Mediterranean, Ionian Sea, and Adriatic Sea marine ecoregions. To accomplish this objective twenty-five populations from this area were surveyed using two mitochondrial DNA markers (COI and 16S). Our dataset was then merged with those obtained in other studies for the Aegean and Tunisian populations (eastern Mediterranean), and statistical analyses (Bayesian model-based clustering, median-joining network, AMOVA, mismatch distribution, Tajima’s and Fu’s neutrality tests and Bayesian skyline plots) were performed. The results revealed genetic divergence among three distinguishable areas: (1) western Mediterranean and Ionian Sea; (2) Adriatic Sea; and (3) Aegean Sea and Tunisian coastal areas. From a conservational point of view, populations from the three genetically divergent groups found may be considered as different management units.
San Jose State University From the SelectedWorks of Xiao Su March , 2008 Efficient Peer Assignment for Low-Latency Transmission of Scalable

In this paper, we propose efficient peer assignment al­ r2, respectively, and r1 < r2. When an image is coded using gorithms for low-latency transmission of scalable coded images in a non-scalable coding scheme using two different bit rates, r1 peer-to-peer networks, in which peers may dynamically join and and r2, the coding generates C1 and C2 as two entirely different leave the networks. The objective of our algorithm is to mini­ strings. Traditional coding algorithms, such as JPEG [27] and mize the transmission time of a requested image that is scalable H.263 [9] generate non-scalable coded bit streams. On the other coded. When an image is scalable coded in different bit rates, the hand, if an image is scalable coded in the same two different bit bit stream encoded in a lower bit rate is a prefix subset of the one rates, r1 and r2, the generated bit stream C1 is a prefix subset of encoded in a higher bit rate. Therefore, a peer with the same re­ C2. Example coding algorithms that generate scalable coded bit quested image coded in any bit rate, even when it is different from streams include MPEG-2 [8] that produces layered bit streams the requested rate, may work as a supplying peer. As a result, when a scalable coded image is requested, more supplying peers can be normally consisting of a base layer and one or more enhance­ found in peer-to-peer networks to help with the transfer. However, ment layers and SPIHT [21] that generates fine-scalable coded the set of supplying peers is not static during transmission, as the bit streams whose quality increases with every additional bit. peers in this set may leave the network or finish their transmission As fine-scalable coded bit streams offer better quality adapta­ at different times. The proposed peer assignment algorithms have tion compared to layered bit streams, in this paper we will focus taken into account the above constraints. on transmission of fine-scalable coded bit streams generated by In this paper, we first prove the existence of an optimal peer as­ SPIHT. signment solution for a simple identity permutation function, and Let us analyze how scalable coding impacts image transmis­ then formulate peer assignment with this identity permutation as a sion in peer-to-peer networks. When a peer requests for an im­ mixed-integer programming problem. Next, we discuss how to ad­ dress the problem of dynamic peer departures during image trans­ age that is non-scalable coded in bit rate r1, then only the peers mission. Finally, we carry out experiments to evaluate the perfor­ that hold the same image in the same bit rate r1 may work as mance of proposed peer assignment algorithms. supplying peers. Peers that hold the same image coded in dif­ ferent bit rates from r1 cannot supply the image because their
A design of energy harvesting step sole

Now a day's Energy harvesting is a demanding area of research where the whole world is looking for regeneration of energy from various resources. Today the resources used to charge many electronic devices are the conventional portable batteries having a finite lifespan. The main problem for such batteries is their disposal. In order to solve this problem, we have designed and developed a Step Sole an alternative to charge the batteries of portable electronic devices such as Apple's i-pod, digital cameras, and mobiles. The energy is generated from piezoelectric transducer based energy harvesting sole while walking along the way. This could be an environment-friendly solution for minimizing the battery disposal issue in India.
Regulation of the glv Operon in Bacillus subtilis: YfiA (GlvR) Is a Positive Regulator of the Operon That Is Repressed through CcpA and cre

ABSTRACT Maltose metabolism and the regulation of the glv operon of Bacillus subtilis, comprising three genes,glvA (6-phospho-α-glucosidase), yfiA (now designated glvR), and glvC (EIICB transport protein), were investigated. Maltose dissimilation was dependent primarily upon the glv operon, and insertional inactivation of either glvA, glvR, or glvC markedly inhibited growth on the disaccharide. A second system (MalL) contributed to a minor extent to maltose metabolism. Northern blotting revealed two transcripts corresponding to a monocistronic mRNA ofglvA and a polycistronic mRNA ofglvA-glvR-glvC. Primer extension analysis showed that both transcripts started at the same base (G) located 26 bp upstream of the 5′ end of glvA. When glvR was placed under control of the spac promoter, expression of theglv operon was dependent upon the presence of isopropyl-β-d-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG). In regulatory studies, the promoter sequence of the glv operon was fused to lacZ and inserted into the amyE locus, and the resultant strain (AMGLV) was then transformed with a citrate-controlled glvR plasmid, pHYCM2VR. When cultured in Difco sporulation medium containing citrate, this transformant [AMGLV(pHYCM2VR)] expressed LacZ activity, but synthesis of LacZ was repressed by glucose. In an isogenic strain, [AMGLVCR(pHYCM2VR)], except for a mutation in the sequence of a catabolite-responsive element (cre), LacZ activity was expressed in the presence of citrate and glucose. Insertion of a citrate-controlledglvR plasmid at the amyE locus ofccpA+ and ccpA mutant organisms yielded strains AMCMVR and AMCMVRCC, respectively. In the presence of both glucose and citrate, AMCMVR failed to express theglv operon, whereas under the same conditions high-level expression of both mRNA transcripts was found in strain AMCMVRCC. Collectively, our findings suggest that GlvR (the product of theglvR gene) is a positive regulator of the glvoperon and that glucose exerts its effect via catabolite repression requiring both CcpA and cre.
Effects of target composition on the optical constants of DC sputtered ZnO: Al thin films

Al-doped ZnO thin films were deposited from ZnO:Al ceramic and Zn:Al metal alloy targets in Ar and Ar + O 2 atmospheres respectively, using Direct Current (DC) magnetron sputtering. The samples exhibited transmittance T > 80% in visible region with good NIR shielding. The results indicated that, band gap energy ranged from 3.34 to 3.44 eV and 3.39 to 3.46 eV for films prepared from alloy and ceramic targets, respectively. Films obtained from alloy target at a substrate temperature of 200 o C showed low electrical sheet resistance of 10 Ω/sq, and highest values of mobility (15.9 cm 2 /Vs) and carrier concentration (2.98 × 10 21 cm -3 ). However, films prepared from ceramic target at a substrate temperature of 300 o C revealed the highest sheet resistance of 32 Ω/sq, with lower values of mobility (14.1 cm 2 /Vs) and carrier concentration (1.92 × 10 20 cm -3 ). The increase in sheet resistance and decrease in mobility as well as carrier concentration might be due to increased scattering centers for carriers, resulting to increased sheet resistance. Optical spectra of the films were fitted to SCOUT software in order to determine the refractive index, n and extinction coefficient, k. Generally, the calculated n and k in the visible part of the solar spectrum for different samples, ranged from 1.59 to 2.2 and 0.00013 to 0.0194 respectively, which are in agreement with results obtained using other methods. In general, the findings of this study shows that alloy target is suitable for deposition of ZnO:Althin films for devices/applications where low deposition temperature is required. Keywords: DC Magnetron Sputtering, Optical Constants, Transparent Conducting Oxides (TCO)
Biodegradable Polymeric Films and Membranes Processing and Forming for Tissue Engineering

This paper critically reviews the overall process of biodegradable polymer films and membranes scaffold fabrication for tissue engineering (TE). Various fabrication techniques including both the processing and the post-processing methods are presented. The processing methods are categorized systematically into basic casting technique, porogen technique, and tooling technique. A comprehensive discussion on post-processing steps and surface patterning techniques is also included to showcase the potential of membrane in TE applications. This paper also evaluates the requirements of films and membrane scaffolds for specific TE applications. The challenges and future outlook of membrane scaffolds are highlighted with potential application in 3D vascularized tissues fabrication.
Reliable detection of predator cues in afferent spike trains of a katydid under high background noise levels

SUMMARY Katydid receivers face the problem of detecting behaviourally relevant predatory cues from echolocating bats in the same frequency domain as their own conspecific mating signals. We therefore tested the hypothesis that katydids are able to detect the presence of insectivorous bats in spike discharges at early stages of nervous processing in the auditory pathway by using the temporal details characteristic for responses to echolocation sequences. Spike activity was recorded from an identified nerve cell (omega neuron) under both laboratory and field conditions. In the laboratory, the preparation was stimulated with sequences of bat calls at different repetition rates typical for the guild of insectivorous bats, in the presence of background noise. The omega cell fired brief high-frequency bursts of action potentials in response to each bat sound pulse. Repetition rates of 18 and 24 Hz of these pulses resulted in a suppression of activity resulting from background noise, thus facilitating the detection of bat calls. The spike activity typical for responses to bat echolocation contrasts to responses to background noise, producing different distributions of inter-spike intervals. This allowed development of a ‘neuronal bat detector’ algorithm, optimized to detect responses to bats in afferent spike trains. The algorithm was applied to more than 24 hours of outdoor omega-recordings performed either at a rainforest clearing with high bat activity or in rainforest understory, where bat activity was low. In 95% of cases, the algorithm detected a bat reliably, even under high background noise, and correctly rejected responses when an electronic bat detector showed no response.
Privacy Issues for Online Personal Photograph Collections

Technological developments now allow community groups, clubs, and even ordinary individuals to create their own, publicly accessible online digital multi-media collections. However, it is unclear as to whether the users of such collection are fully aware of the potential privacy implications of submitting their personal contents (e.g. photographs, video, etc.) to these digital collections. They may even hold misconceptions of the technological support for preserving their privacy. In this paper we present results from 18 autoethnographic investigations and 19 ethnographic observations and interviews into privacy issues that arise when people make their personal photo collections available online. The Adams' privacy model is used to discuss the findings according to information sensitivity, information receiver, and information usage. Further issues of trust and ad hoc poorly supported protection strategies are also presented. Ultimately while photographic data is potentially highly sensitive, the privacy risks are often hidden and the protection mechanisms are limited.
Influence of Crystallization Conditions on Relaxation Properties of Polymer Near‐Surface Layers

Relaxation properties of polymer near-surface layers were investigated with the help of thermoluminescent method using Nanoluminograph (PlasmaChem GMbH, Germany). The gel- and melt-crystallized films from PE of different molecular weight were studied. The light sum of thermoluminescence in the temperature range of various relaxation transitions was compared. It is found that it is primarily controlled by the type of morphology forming during crystallization and the arrangement of the structural units on a surface. The glass transition temperature in near-surface layers appeared to be lower that that in the bulk. Bulk glass transition temperature was determined by radiothermoluminescence, DMA and DSC techniques.
MEASUREMENT OF CONTROLLED ATTENUATION PARAMETER: A SURROGATE MARKER OF HEPATIC STEATOSIS IN PATIENTS OF NONALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASE ON LIFESTYLE MODIFICATION - A PROSPECTIVE FOLLOW-UP STUDY.

BACKGROUND Liver biopsy is a gold standard method for hepatic steatosis assessment. However, liver biopsy is an invasive and painful procedure and can cause severe complications therefore it cannot be frequently used in case of follow-up of patients. Non-invasive assessment of steatosis and fibrosis is of growing relevance in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). To evaluate hepatic steatosis, transient elastography with controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) measurement is an option now days. OBJECTIVE Aim of this study is to evaluate role of measurement of controlled attenuation parameter, a surrogate marker of hepatic steatosis in patients of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease on lifestyle modification. METHODS In this study, initially 37 participants were included who were followed up after 6 months with transient elastography, blood biochemical tests and anthropometric measurements. The results were analyzed by Multivariate linear regression analysis and paired samples t-test (Dependent t-test) with 95% confidence interval. Correlation is calculated by Pearson correlation coefficients. RESULTS Mean CAP value for assessing hepatic steatosis during 1st consultation (278.57±49.13 dB/m) was significantly improved (P=0.03) after 6 months of lifestyle modification (252.91±62.02 dB/m). Only fasting blood sugar (P=0.008), weight (P=0.000), body mass index (BMI) (P=0.000) showed significant positive correlation with CAP. Only BMI (P=0.034) and weight (P=0.035) were the independent predictor of CAP value in NAFLD patients. CONCLUSION Lifestyle modification improves the hepatic steatosis, and CAP can be used to detect the improvement of hepatic steatosis during follow-up in patients with NAFLD on lifestyle modification. There is no relation between CAP and Fibroscan score in NAFLD patients. Only BMI and weight can predict CAP value independently.
The Human Urine Metabolome

Urine has long been a “favored” biofluid among metabolomics researchers. It is sterile, easy-to-obtain in large volumes, largely free from interfering proteins or lipids and chemically complex. However, this chemical complexity has also made urine a particularly difficult substrate to fully understand. As a biological waste material, urine typically contains metabolic breakdown products from a wide range of foods, drinks, drugs, environmental contaminants, endogenous waste metabolites and bacterial by-products. Many of these compounds are poorly characterized and poorly understood. In an effort to improve our understanding of this biofluid we have undertaken a comprehensive, quantitative, metabolome-wide characterization of human urine. This involved both computer-aided literature mining and comprehensive, quantitative experimental assessment/validation. The experimental portion employed NMR spectroscopy, gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS), direct flow injection mass spectrometry (DFI/LC-MS/MS), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) experiments performed on multiple human urine samples. This multi-platform metabolomic analysis allowed us to identify 445 and quantify 378 unique urine metabolites or metabolite species. The different analytical platforms were able to identify (quantify) a total of: 209 (209) by NMR, 179 (85) by GC-MS, 127 (127) by DFI/LC-MS/MS, 40 (40) by ICP-MS and 10 (10) by HPLC. Our use of multiple metabolomics platforms and technologies allowed us to identify several previously unknown urine metabolites and to substantially enhance the level of metabolome coverage. It also allowed us to critically assess the relative strengths and weaknesses of different platforms or technologies. The literature review led to the identification and annotation of another 2206 urinary compounds and was used to help guide the subsequent experimental studies. An online database containing the complete set of 2651 confirmed human urine metabolite species, their structures (3079 in total), concentrations, related literature references and links to their known disease associations are freely available at http://www.urinemetabolome. ca.
Ethnomedical and Biomedical Realities: Is There an Epidemiological Relationship between Stress-Related Folk Illnesses and Type 2 Diabetes?

Applied medical anthropologists often find themselves working as culture brokers between community and/or patient groups and biomedical providers/public health institutions, where conflicting ethnomedical and biomedical realities can cause tension. In this paper, we examine ethnomedical perceptions of the role of folk illnesses in the etiology of diabetes. We operationalize the biomedical perspective as epidemiological patterns and explore whether ethnomedical perceptions about diabetes etiology can be demonstrated epidemiologically. The motivation for the study was the realization that if an ethnomedical diagnosis of a folk illness such as susto (fright) and/or nervios (nerves) increased the risk for diabetes, there might be important implications for biomedical screening for this disease. Anthropological studies suggesting that folk illnesses and diabetes may be associated have not actually tested for an association; their conclusions rely solely on patients' reports of a causal link. Here, we use a cas.
Immune Gene Expression in Bombus terrestris: Signatures of Infection Despite Strong Variation among Populations, Colonies, and Sister Workers

Ecological immunology relies on variation in resistance to parasites. Colonies of the bumblebee Bombus terrestris vary in their susceptibility to the trypanosome gut parasite Crithidia bombi, which reduces colony fitness. To understand the possible origin of this variation in resistance we assayed the expression of 28 immunologically important genes in foraging workers. We deliberately included natural variation of the host “environment” by using bees from colonies collected in two locations and sampling active foraging workers that were not age controlled. Immune gene expression patterns in response to C. bombi showed remarkable variability even among genetically similar sisters. Nevertheless, expression varied with parasite exposure, among colonies and, perhaps surprisingly, strongly among populations (collection sites). While only the antimicrobial peptide abaecin is universally up regulated upon exposure, linear discriminant analysis suggests that the overall exposure effect is driven by a combination of several immune pathways and further immune functions such as ROS regulation. Also, the differences among colonies in their immune gene expression profiles provide clues to the mechanistic basis of well-known inter-colony variation in susceptibility to this parasite. Our results show that transcriptional responses to parasite exposure can be detected in ecologically heterogeneous groups despite strong background noise.