Datasets:

marcelsun

/

wos_hierarchical_multi_label_text_classification

like 0

First-principles calculation on dilute magnetic alloys in zinc blend crystal structure. Calculated total magnetic moments and the robustness of half-metallicity of Ga0.75Mn0.25P, Ga0.75Mn0.25As and Ga0.5Mn0.5As with respect to the variation in lattice parameters are also discussed. The predicted theoretical evidence shows that some Mn-doped Ill-V semiconductors can be effectively used in spintronic devices. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved,Ab-initio calculations are performed to investigate the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of spin-polarized diluted magnetic alloys in zinc blonde structure. The first-principles study is carried out on Mn doped Ill-V semiconductors. The calculated band structures, electronic properties and magnetic properties of Ga1-xMnxX (X=P, As) compounds reveal that Ga0.75Mn0.25P is half metallic turned to be metallic with increasing x to 0.5 and 0.75, whereas substitute P by As cause to maintain the half-metallicity nature in both of Ga0.75Mn0.25As and Ga0.5Mn0.5As and tune Ga0.25Mn0.75As to be metallic.

fThermodynamics-based constitutive framework for unsaturated soils. 1: Theory. Unlike the elastoplastic modelling of saturated soil behaviour, the constitutive modelling of unsaturated soils has not been firmly based on engineering science, and in particular on the thermodynamic laws. To establish a thermodynamics-based modelling framework for unsaturated soils, one needs to examine and deal with the work - energy - dissipation relations for an open multiphase thermodynamic system, as well as the coupling effects among the phases. This paper presents the detailed derivation of such a modelling framework, with all major assumptions clearly stated. This framework will pave a way for developing specific unsaturated soil models with an examinable basis.

A Fault-Tolerant Wideband Amplifier Based on Distributed Amplification Topology. The failure of the transistor could make an amplifier useless, bringing the wireless system to a sudden halt. Therefore, an amplifier which can handle this type of fault without introducing additional components is highly demanded in industrial applications. For this purpose, a distributed amplification topology is proposed in this paper. The robustness of the proposed structure was theoretically verified by analyzing the ideal models of the amplifier under normal and failed modes. The possibility for further performance enhancement using tunable components is also theoretically investigated. For validation, a wideband amplifier which covers a bandwidth from 0.75 to 2.4 GHz is designed, fabricated, and measured. To verify the robustness, the cases with one and two field effect transistors (FETs) failed are evaluated. For the case with one failed FET, the implemented amplifier maintained a comparable performance over the operating frequency band. For the case with two failed FETs, the same bandwidth can be maintained with the unavoidable minor degradation in gain and gain flatness. The unique fault-tolerant property of the proposed topology is demonstrated. As a beneficial supplement to the proposed fault-tolerant architecture, the proposed optimization approach is applied to achieve a better tradeoff among return loss, gain, and gain flatness.

Lateral quantum wells at vicinal Au(111) studied with angle-resolved photoemission. Electrons at noble metal surfaces can be confined within terraces leading to one-dimensional surface states. These can be studied with angle-resolved photoemission from vicinal surfaces with regular arrays of (111)-oriented terraces. Here we show the case of Au(23 23 21), which is vicinal to Au(111) and displays L=56 Angstrom wide terraces. The surface state band appears broken up into three quantum well levels that match to those of the infinite quantum well of the same width L. Their parallel momentum dependent photoemission intensity allows mapping the probability density of the confined wave function in reciprocal space using angle-resolved photoemission. By Fourier transformation, their respective experimental wave functions in real space are obtained and compared to the case of the infinite quantum-well, showing excellent agreement. Final state step superlattice diffraction effects have also been observed. Finally, we observe the quenching of the characteristic spin-orbit coupling of Au(111) in the confinement direction. This is another indication of the one-dimensional character of the surface state, as confirmed with first order perturbation theory.

TIPS for Treatment of Variceal Hemorrhage: Clinical Outcomes in 128 Patients at a Single Institution over a 12-Year Period. Results: Technical and hemodynamic success rates were 100% and 94%, respectively. Mean portosystemic gradient reduction was 13 mm Hg. Complications at 30 days included encephalopathy (14%), renal failure (5.5%), infection (1.6%), and liver failure (0.8%). Shunt patency rates were 93%, 82%, and 60% at 30 days, 1 year, and 2 years, respectively. Dysfunction, or loss of TIPS primary patency, occurred more with Wallstent versus VIATORR TIPSs (29% vs 11%; P = .009). Recurrent bleeding incidences were 9%, 22%, and 29% at 30 days, I year, and 2 years, respectively, and were similar between Wallstent and VIATORR TIPSs (19% vs 19%; P = .924). Variceal embolization significantly reduced recurrent bleeding rates (5% vs 25%; P = .013). Overall survival rates were 80%, 69%, and 65% at 30 days, 1 year, and 2 years, respectively, and were similar between Wallstent and VIATORR TIPSs (35% vs 26% mortality rate; P = .312). Advanced MELD score was associated with increased mortality on multivariate analysis.Conclusions: Wallstent and VIATORR TIPSs effectively treat variceal hemorrhage, particularly when accompanied by variceal embolization. Although TIPS with a VIATORR device showed improved shunt patency, patient survival is similar to that with 1 Wallstent TIPS. These results further validate TIPS creation for refractory variceal bleeding.Materials and Methods: A total of 128 patients (82 men and 46 women; mean age, 52 y) with liver cirrhosis and refractory variceal hemorrhage underwent TIPS creation from 1998 to 2010. Mean Child-Pugh and Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores were 9 and 18, respectively. From 1998 to 2004, 12-mm Wallstents (n = 58) were used, whereas from 2004 to 2010, 10-mm VIATORR covered stent-grafts (n = 70) were used. Technical success, hemodynamic success, complications, shunt dysfunction, recurrent bleeding, and overall survival were assessed.Purpose: To assess clinical outcomes of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) treatment of variceal hemorrhage.

Theoretical investigation of separator units in saw-gin machines. I: Cotton flow rate estimation. This theoretical study is intended to investigate the performance of a saw-gin ginning machine with special reference to separator units. For this purpose, a theoretical model of the separator units of a particular saw-gin machine has been developed by introducing the non-dimensional parameters defining the mechanical operating conditions, and we have also outlined a design procedure whereby the cotton flow rate and loss of cotton can be estimated in such a system. This paper forms part of an extended theoretical investigation into the separator units of saw gin machines; here, only the flow rate estimation results obtained for the first unit of the separator have been discussed.

Creativity in design-Science to engineering model. This paper is written in honor of my long term friend and mentor Professor Bernard Roth who spent over six decades in Academic contributions devoted to Kinematics, Dynamics, Control, and design of computer controlled mechanical devices. He is continuing actively in his work from the famous school Hasso Plattner Institute of Design cofounded at Stanford (popularly known as d.school). As an Academic Director he is active in Creativity in Design. This paper explores the idea of Creativity directly from Science of 17th-18th centuries in place of Engineering evolved by Professor Timoshenko at Stanford in early 20th century at the time of rapid expansion of rotating machinery from de Laval in 1882. An example of design that involves extreme temperature ranges, magneto hydrodynamics and optimization in a fusion reactor to produce tritium fuel will be described. (c) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Identification of three novel polymorphisms in the MJD1 gene and study of their frequency in the Portuguese population. Machado-Joseph disease (MJD) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder of late onset, caused by the expansion of a (CAG)(n) tract in the MJD1 gene. Using BLAST2 sequences between known cDNA variants transcribed by the MJD1 gene and a clone of human genomic DNA, six possible unknown intragenic single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), at variable positions in the MJD1 gene, were identified. To confirm this, we studied a Portuguese control population. using polymerase chain reaction amplification and single-strand conformation polymorphism analysis for each potential SNP. For four of the possible polymorphisms there was no variability in our population. but the existence of three novel polymorphisms was confirmed: GTT(527)GTC(527), C-1178/A(1178), and A(1294)/G(1294). The polymorphism GTT(527)/GTC(527) (Val/Val) is located in the coding region, whereas C-1178/A(1178) and A(1294)/G(1294) are located in the 3' noncoding region of cDNA variants of the MJD1 gene, MJD2-1 and MJD1-1. respectively. All these novel SNPs are in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. These intragenic polymorphisms can be useful for (1) the study of the origin of the MJD mutation(s), (2) the study of recombination events, (3) distinction of chromosomes with alleles of identical (CAG), size in genetic tests (homoallelism), (4) the study of genetic modifiers in the region flanking the MJD1 gene, and (5) association studies in other diseases.

Ample and spanned vector bundles of top Chern number two on smooth projective varieties. The purpose of this paper is to classify ample and spanned vector bundles of top Chern number two on smooth projective varieties of arbitrary dimension defined over an algebraically closed field of characteristic zero.

A survey of East Palaearctic Lycosidae (Araneae). 9. A review of Sibirocosa with a description of three new species. The East Palaearctic genus Sibirocosa Marusik, Azarkina & Koponen, 2004 is surveyed and three species S. koponeni sp. n. (Maritime Province), S. nadolnyi sp. n. and S. trilikauskasi sp. n. (both from Khabarovsk Province) are described from the Russian Far East. Illustrations to all six species found in East Asia are provided.

Physical properties of cytoplasmic intermediate filaments. Intermediate filaments (IFs) constitute a sophisticated filament system in the cytoplasm of eukaryotes. They form bundles and networks with adapted viscoelastic properties and are strongly interconnected with the other filament types, microfilaments and microtubules. IFs are cell type specific and apart from biochemical functions, they act as mechanical entities to provide stability and resilience to cells and tissues. We review the physical properties of these abundant structural proteins including both in vitro studies and cell experiments. IFs are hierarchical structures and their physical properties seem to a large part be encoded in the very specific architecture of the biopolymers. Thus, we begin our review by presenting the assembly mechanism, followed by the mechanical properties of individual filaments, network and structure formation due to electrostatic interactions, and eventually the mechanics of in vitro and cellular networks. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Mechanobiology. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Numerical and Experimental Studies on Single Stone Columns. In this study, through some laboratory tests, the influence of the encasement (routine and ringy) and gravel mattress (with and without geotextile) on the behavior of stone columns is studied. The primary objective of the tests was to compare the effectiveness of vertical encapsulating of stone columns in the same conditions for various encasing patterns with that of the gravel mattress. A 2D-numerical approach also provides the opportunity to investigate the reasons for changes in bearing capacity of stone columns encased by routine and ringy patterns and the various replacement areas. Results present a better understanding of the load-settlement behavior of stone columns with various encasement types. Encasement is more effective in improving the column bearing capacity of larger diameter columns than smaller ones.

A mechanistic model to link technical specifications of vehicle end-of-life treatment with the potential of closed-loop recycling of post-consumer scrap alloys. Closed-loop recycling of scrap from end-of-life (EoL) vehicles could reduce the demand for virgin material production and associated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, current modeling frameworks for closed-loop recycling lack a mechanistic representation of the linkage between the changes in scrap quality (i.e., alloying element composition) and the EoL treatment practices, demonstrating a challenge to comprehensively assess the merits of closed-loop recycling. The Vehicle Recycling LCA model (VehiReLCA) was developed to address this challenge by parameterizing the key factors involved in the EoL treatment steps, quantifying their influences on the alloying composition of resulting scrap ingots and ultimately, the associated closed-loop utilization ratios and life cycle GHG emissions. A series of scenarios were investigated, representing a wide range of results that originated from different assumptions of scrap mixing, sorting efficiency, and remelting for six vehicle archetypes. Based on the prevailing assumption of constant closed-loop utilization ratios in the literature, the life cycle GHG emissions for conventional (lightweight) internal combustion engine vehicle, plug-in electric vehicle and battery electric vehicle were 3788 (4598), 4136 (4799), and 3327 (4166) kg CO2-eq per vehicle, respectively. In comparison, explicitly correlating the alloy compositions with random sorting error and/or cross-mixing of vehicle components often led to an order of magnitude decrease in scrap utilization ratios. Accordingly, the increase in GHG emissions, compared to those estimated using constant utilization ratios, varied from 15%-47% (for all archetypes when 2% random sorting error was considered) to 64%-71% (for lightweight archetypes when the most heterogeneity of EoL treatment steps was assumed). This revealed a significant range of uncertainty regarding the GHG reduction benefits of closed-loop recycling that was not previously identified in the literature.

The light-independent locomotion response to a static magnetic field in Xenopus tadpoles. Increasing numbers of behavioral observations have shown that many organisms can sense magnetic fields in the environment. However, the underlying mechanisms of magnetosensation remain elusive, and a major problem is the lack of an animal model convenient for detecting magnetic responses, especially in vertebrates. We have previously reported that the physical performance of mice decreased after 1 month of exposure to a hypomagnetic field, which probably includes a light-independent mechanism. In this study, we investigated the effects of a static magnetic field on the locomotion of Xenopus tadpoles (stage 48) using a real-time recording system. Because it is speculated that the photosensing system is related to magnetosensation, we triggered the tadpoles to swim by a 30 s light pulse after a 5 min adaptation in the dark and measured the swimming activities of the tadpoles under static magnetic field exposure in both the dark and bright conditions. Compared to the sham control treatment, the presence of a magnet inhibited the movement of the tadpoles under both bright and dark conditions, as shown by reductions in swimming distance, speed, and counts of path adjustment. Moreover, the directional preference for path adaptation was altered when swimming in the dark. These results suggest that tadpoles in the dark can exert a rapid locomotion response to changes in the environmental magnetic field, providing evidence for an intrinsic, light-independent rapid magnetoresponse pathway in tadpoles. In addition, this rapid vertebrate locomotion assay paradigm will be a practical tool to facilitate further investigation of the mechanisms of biomagnetic effects.

Evaluation of Fire Risk in Commercial Complexes of District 12 of Tehran and its Relationship with their Structural and Usage Characteristics. Conclusion: The results showed the current situation of the studied commercial complexes is prone to cause a disaster in the 12th district of Tehran; Using the results of this study in urban planning and cross-sectoral communication to improve the safety of commercial complexes in the region is suggested.Introduction: Commercial complexes are one of the most prestigious public and city-centered areas in terms of urban safety and passive defense. The purpose of this study was to determine the fire safety risk score of commercial complexes and its related factors.Material and method: The commercial complexes of area 1 of District 12 of Tehran were studied. The characteristics of the complexes, including construction, height, activity, Occupancy Coefficient and etc in each complex were collected. Fire risk assessment was performed using NFPA101 standard and CFSES software in three areas of control, Egress and general safety. In SPSS software version 21, linear regression and ANOVA tests were used to determine the relationship between variables.Results: Of the 79 commercial complexes studied, only 8 in control area and 4 in general area achieved acceptable risk level. None of them achieved an acceptable score in the Egress. According to the results, there was no significant relationship between risk levels and height, type and activity Coefficient of them (p>0.05). However, between Occupancy Coefficient of complexes with fire safety risk levels of control (p<0.001) and genera l(p = 0.013) and between construction with all risk levels ((p Egress = 0.004), (p Control & p General<0.001)) There was a significant relationship.

Biodegradation of synthetic dyes by free and cross-linked peroxidase in microfluidic reactor. This paper aims to reduce the gap between intensified innovative process designs and the application of enzyme technologies at an industrial scale that often take full advantage of microreactor systems. Soybean and potato processing waste was used as the source of peroxidase in both the free and immobilized form for the biodegradation of the Acid Violet 109 anthraquinone dye (AV109) in a PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) microreactor which is 0.5 mm in diameter and 6 m in length. High biodegradation efficiencies of 95 and 76% were achieved by soybean and potato peroxidase respectively after 3 min of residence in the microreactor, with a noticeable lack of hydrogen peroxide inhibition. The reactor's design, with regard to its diameter and length, significantly affected the biodegradation efficiency. The polymer membrane formation by the cross-linking approach with oxidized pectin and soybean or potato peel peroxidase on the inner PTFE wall was SEM confirmed. The cross-linking efficiency with oxidized pectin of both peroxidases is inversely correlated with the activity, hence the highest recorded activity of immobilized peroxidase was 11 and 19 junolimin of soybean and potato peroxidase, respectively, at an initial pectin concentration of 0.05%. A promising reusability for AV109 biodegradation in the microreactor with immobilized soybean and potato peroxidase was confirmed, since the immobilized peroxidases retained 65 and 35% of the initial activity after the tenth cycle, respectively. The LC-MS and GC-MS techniques confirmed the biodegradation of the AV 109 dye, and the intermediates with a lower molecular weight were separated and identified. (C) 2022 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Oceanic tidal angular momentum and Earth's rotation variations. Luni-solar tides affect Earth's rotation in a variety of ways. We give an overview of the physics and focus on the excitation of Earth rotational Variations by ocean tides under the conservation of angular momentum. Various models for diurnal and semidiurnal tidal height and tidal current fields have been derived, following a legacy of a number of theoretical tide models, from the Topex/Poseidon (T/P) ocean altimetry data. We review the oceanic tidal angular momenta (OTAM) predicted by these T/P models for the eight major tides (Q(1), O-1, P-1, K-1, N-2, M-2, S-2, K-2,), and their excitations on both Earth's rotational speed variation tin terms of length-of-day or UTI) and polar motion (prograde diurnal/semidiurnal components and retrograde semidiurnal components). These small, high-frequency effects have been unambiguously observed in recent years by precise Earth rotation measurements via space geodetic techniques. Here we review the comparison of the very-long-baseline-interferometry (VLBI) data with the T/P OTAM predictions. The agreement is good with discrepancies typically within 1-2 microseconds for UT1 and 10-30 microarcseconds for polar motion. The eight tides collectively explain the majority of subdaily Earth rotation variance during the intensive VLBI campaign Cont94. This establishes the dominant role of OTAM in exciting the diurnal/semidiurnal polar motion and paves the way for detailed studies of short-period non-OTAM excitations, such as atmospheric and oceanic angular momentum variations, earthquakes, the atmospheric thermal tides, Earth librations, and the response of the mantle lateral inhomogeneities to tidal forcing. These studies await further improvements in tide models and Earth rotation measurements. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.

Willughby's Buzzard: names and misnomers of the European Honey-buzzard (Pernis apivorus). The European Honey-buzzard (Pernis apivorus) was first accurately described and clearly distinguished from the Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo) by Francis Willughby and John Ray in their Ornithology, originally published in Latin in 1676. Alfred Newton's statement that Pierre Belon had described the species over a century earlier is not entirely correct, as Belon confused this honey-buzzard's features with those of the common buzzard and even appeared uncertain whether it was a separate species. One of Willughby's important contributions to ornithology was the identification and use of \\'characteristic marks\\' to distinguish and identify species, including those that distinguish the European Honey-buzzard from the Common Buzzard. Because Willughby provided the first accurate description of Pernis apivorus - and because his contribution to ornithology has never been formally recognized - we propose that the common name of the European Honey-buzzard be changed to Willughby's Buzzard.

A Novel ML Augmented DRC Framework for Identification of Yield Detractor Patterns. This work proposes a methodology to find lithography yield detractors using Design Rule Checks (DRC) that are derived from a supervised Machine Learning (ML) model. The probability of being an outlier in layout parameter domain has a strong correlation with the probability of process failure. Moreover, the failing patterns exhibit relatively complex and non-linear behavior and often form complex clusters in the layout parameter domain. Using this, an accurate failure model is built by measuring the distance of a layout sample from the mean distribution in the layout parameter space. The proposed method does not require process failure models, but the calculation of layout parameters only. Further, the failure models are converted into DRC rules to make the methodology suitable for integration into present verification flow. These ML augmented Design Rule Checks (MLDRC) use a set of decision trees in the layout parameter domain and are suitable for full-chip level applications. The ML augmented DRC can better represent and form failure clusters as compared to traditional DRC. Experimental results show that the proposed MLDRC achieves better performance on full-chip designs compared to other hotspot detection techniques.

IMAGING IN AN OPTICAL PROJECTION SYSTEM WITH A LASER-LIGHT SOURCE .2. MULTI-TRANSVERSE-MODE LASER-LIGHT ILLUMINATION. Imaging characteristics are analyzed using a one-dimensional model. The second source plane in an illumination system is illuminated by a laser light oscillating in a multitude of transverse modes. Intensity distributions for a line-and-space pattern with 5 lines are calculated. Focal tolerance is examined for intensity distributions due to the light oscillating in only even transverse modes. No linear relationship between the number of transverse modes and focal tolerance is observed. When a phase of the light field for each even transverse mode is randomly given, contrasts of intensity distributions do not deteriorate with defocus.

A new large and colourful species of the genus Doto (Nudibranchia: Dotidae) from South Africa. A new species of the genus Doto is described from the Cape Peninsula of the Western Cape Province, South Africa. To date, the genus Doto is probably one of the more complex and poorly defined genera within nudibranchs. The very small body size and very similar external and internal features make this genus problematic and, therefore, poorly studied. Despite the large number of described species around the world, only three species are known to be present in South Africa: Doto coronata (Gmelin, 1791), Doto pinnatifida (Montagu, 1804) and Doto rosea Trinchese, 1881. Morphologically, Doto splendida sp. nov. is easily distinguished from all its South African congeneric species by its conspicuous colouration. In addition, mitochondrial and nuclear genes clearly separate the new species from other species from southern Africa. A molecular phylogeny based on two mitochondrial (COI and 16S) and one nuclear (H3) gene is herein presented. This phylogeny includes all available species of Doto (valid and unidentified) as well as several other traditionally closed related species retrieved from GenBank.http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:3764C38DF6BB-415F-958C-E3132A1A9524

TIME-FREQUENCY ANALYSIS OF VENTRICULAR LATE POTENTIALS. The time-frequency characteristics are studied of averaged and filtered ECG records from 21 patients with sustained ventricular tachycardia and 29 healthy control subjects. Simulated data as well as real ECG records reveal the detection accuracy of the wavelet transform of signals with late potentials. The wavelet-transforms of preprocessed ECG signals are plotted in the time-frequency plane. These representations of the signals are well suited to describe the different characteristics of the patients and healthy subjects. A quantitative discrimination was performed with a sensitivity of 90% and a specificity of 72% by the energy underneath the squared modulus of the time-frequency distribution plots of the computed wavelet transforms.

A descriptive analysis of batting backlift techniques in cricket: Does the practice of elite cricketers follow the theory?. One of the first principles of cricket batsmanship that is coached from a young age is to play with a straight bat. Limited studies to date have examined whether top international batsmen use this traditionally described technique. Accordingly, we performed a descriptive, observational study of the backlift technique adopted by 65 of the most successful batsmen of all time, based on their career averages, strike rate and runs scored. The batsmen were divided into two groups depending on whether they played the game before or after 1954. Surprisingly, more than 70% of these successful batsmen did not adopt the traditionally taught technique. Instead, they adopted a more looped action in which the initial movement of the bat was in the direction of the slips, and in extreme cases it was either towards the gully/point region or to have the face of the bat directed towards the off-side. This suggests that traditionally taught batting coaching techniques may hinder, rather than enhance future cricketing performance. Since the vast majority of cricketers are not coached in this technique, this finding probably indicates that this looped technique is likely a contributing factor to effective batsmanship.

Comparative analysis of MiB1 and p53 expression in human bladder tumors and their correlation with cancer progression. Expression of p53 and MiB1, markers of tumor proliferation, was evaluated in human bladder tumors, and correlated with ploidy and cancer progression in 83 consecutive patients. Transurethral resection ofa newly diagnosed bladder tumor was performed in 73 cases, and systematic bladder biopsies were performed in 10 cases after bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) treatment. p53 and MiB1 expression were performed by an immunohistochemical technique and the ploidy was determined on a frozen fragment of the tumor. p53 expression was correlated in relation to grade, stage and combination of grade and stage. MiB1 expression was correlated with cytological grade, and a significant difference was demonstrated between pT0 and pTa, pTa and pT1, pTa and pT2 tumors but not between pT1 and greater than or equal to pT2 tumors. A discordance was observed for the comparison of p53 and MIBI values, stage by stage, suggesting that these two techniques are independent of each other. A larger proportion of aneuploid tumors were positive for p53 and MiB1 (64.8 vs. 86.5%, respectively), but p53 and MiB1 immunostaining were not better indicators than ploidy alone to predict cancer progression.

Single-cell quantification of molecules and rates using open-source microscope-based cytometry. Microscope-based cytometry provides a powerful means to study cells in high throughput. Here we present a set of refined methods for making sensitive measurements of large numbers of individual Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells over time. The set consists of relatively simple 'wet' methods, microscope procedures, open-source software tools and statistical routines. This combination is very sensitive, allowing detection and measurement of fewer than 350 fluorescent protein molecules per living yeast cell. These methods enabled new protocols, including 'snapshot' protocols to calculate rates of maturation and degradation of molecular species, including a GFP derivative and a native mRNA, in unperturbed, exponentially growing yeast cells. Owing to their sensitivity, accuracy and ability to track changes in individual cells over time, these microscope methods may complement flow-cytometric measurements for studies of the quantitative physiology of cellular systems.

Drying process paths of ternary polymer solution coating. Drying process paths of a ternary solution consisting of a polymer dissolved in a blend of a solvent and a nonsolvent are analyzed. A 1-D drying model applied to a ternary solution provides composition trajectories followed at different depths in the coating as a function of time, collectively called process paths. The effects of gas phase mass-transfer coefficient, relative diffusivity, and relative volatility, and partial saturation of the gas phase with solvents on these process paths are presented. When the solution coating enters the two phase region, phase separation may take place, as illustrated by coatings prepared from ternary solutions of cellulose acetate in ketone and methanol. When acetone is the solvent, the coating phase separates. Replacing acetone with methyl ethyl ketone gives homogeneous coatings. Solution phase separation or \\'blush\\' is explained in terms of the drying-process paths and their relationship to the two phase immiscible region.

Substance P protects spiral ganglion neurons from apoptosis via PKC-Ca2+-MAPK/ERK pathways. In the current study, we have investigated the ability of substance P (SP) to protect 3-day-old (P3) rat spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) from trophic factor deprivation (TFD)-induced cell death. The presence of SP high affinity neurokinin-1 receptor (NK1) transcripts was detected in the spiral ganglion and the NK1 protein localized to SGNs both ex vivo and in vitro. Treatment with SP increased cytoplasmic Ca2+ in SGNs, further arguing for the presence of functional NK1 on these neurons. Both SP and the agonist [Sar(9), Met(O-2)(11)]-SP significantly decreased SGN cell death induced by TFD, with no effect on neurite outgrowth. The survival promoting effect of SP was blocked by the NK1 antagonist, WIN51708. Both pan-caspase inhibitor BOC-D-FMK and SP treatments markedly reduced activation of caspases and DNA fragmentation in trophic factor deprived-neurons. The neuroprotective action of SP was antagonised by specific inhibitors of second messengers, including 1.2-bis-(O-aminophenoxy)-ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA-AM) to chelate cytosolic Ca2+, the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors bisindolylmaleimide I, Go6976 and LY333531 and the MAPK/ERK inhibitor U0126. In contrast, nifedipine, a specific inhibitor of L-type Ca2+ channel, and LY294002, a phosphatidylinositol-3-OH kinase (PI3K) inhibitor, had no effect on SP trophic support of SGNs. Moreover, activation of endogenous PKC by 4beta-phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) also reduced the loss of trophic factor-deprived SGNs. Thus, NK1 expressed by SGNs transmit a survival-promoting regulatory signal during TFD-induced SGN cell death via pathways involving PKC activation, Ca2+ signalling and MAPK/ERK activation, which can be accounted for by an inhibition of caspase activation.

Combined effects of lifestyle risk factors on fatty liver index. Background Factors of lifestyle may have a major impact on liver-related morbidity and mortality. We examined independent and joint effects of lifestyle risk factors on fatty liver index (FLI), a biomarker of hepatic steatosis, in a population-based cross-sectional national health survey. Methods The study included 12,368 participants (5784 men, 6584 women) aged 25-74 years. Quantitative estimates of alcohol use, smoking, adiposity and physical activity were used to establish a total score of risk factors, with higher scores indicating an unhealthier lifestyle. FLI was calculated based on an algorithm including body mass index, waist circumference, serum gamma-glutamyltransferase and triglycerides. Results The occurrence of FLI >= 60% indicating fatty liver increased from 2.4% in men with zero risk factors to 81.9% in those with a total risk score of 7-8 (p < 0.0005 for linear trend) and in women from 0 to 73.5% (p < 0.0005). The most striking individual impacts on the likelihood for FLI above 60% were observed for physical inactivity (p < 0.0005 for both genders) and alcohol consumption (p < 0.0005 for men). Interestingly, coffee consumption was also found to increase with increasing risk factor scores (p < 0.0005 for linear trend in both genders). Conclusions The data indicates that unfavorable combinations of lifestyle risk factors lead to a high likelihood of hepatic steatosis. Use of FLI as a diagnostic tool may benefit the assessment of interventions aimed at maintaining a healthy lifestyle and prevention of liver-related morbidity.

On several partitioning problems of Bollobas and Scott. Judicious partitioning problems on graphs and hypergraphs ask for partitions that optimize several quantities simultaneously. Let G be a hypergraph with m(i) edges of size i for i = 1.2. We show that for any integer k >= 1. V(G) admits a partition into k sets each containing at most m(1)/k + m(2)/k(2) + 0(m(2)) edges, establishing a conjecture of Bollobas and Scott. We also prove that V (C) admits a partition into k >= 3 sets, each meeting at least m(1)/k + m(2)/(k - 1) + 0(m(2)) edges, which, for large graphs, implies a conjecture of Bollobas and Scott (the conjecture is for all graphs). For k = 2, we prove that V(G) admits a partition into two sets each meeting at least m(1)/2+ 3m(2)/4 o(m(2)) edges, which solves a special case of a more general problem of Bollobas and Scott. (C) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A new combined multicompartmental model for apolipoprotein B-100 and triglyceride metabolism in VLDL subfractions. The use of stable isotopes in conjunction with compartmental modeling analysis has greatly facilitated studies of the metabolism of the apolipoprotein B (apoB)-containing lipoproteins in humans. The aim of this study was to develop a multicompartment model that allows us to simultaneously determine the kinetics of apoB and triglyceride (TG) in VLDL1 and VLDL2 after a bolus injection of [H-2(3)]leucine and [H-2(5)]glycerol and to follow the catabolism and transfer of the lipoprotein particles. Here, we describe the model and present the results of its application in a fasting steady-state situation in 17 subjects with lipid values representative of a Western population. Analysis of the correlations showed that plasma TG was determined by the VLDL1 and VLDL2 apoB and TG fractional catabolic rate. Furthermore, the model showed a linear correlation between VLDL1 TG and apoB production. A novel observation was that VLDL TG entered the circulation within 21 min after its synthesis, whereas VLDL apoB entered the circulation after 33 min. These observations are consistent with a sequential assembly model of VLDL and suggest that the TG is added to a primordial apoB-containing particle in the liver.

Erecting a Pyramid in France: Tomb Symbolism in 1 Henry VI. The article examines the unusual language the French nobility use to describe Joan la Pucelle in Shakespeare's 1 Henry VI. Throughout the play, the French struggle to generate satisfactory expressions of gratitude towards their unconventional champion. Eventually, they settle on envisioning a future where Joan is commemorated with a splendid monument combining the secular magnificence of a pyramid and the religious glory of a saint's shrine. In effect, the nobles regale the living Joan with elaborate promises about how they will honor her memory once she is dead. The French choose this peculiar brand of admiration because they fear that all of their conventional models of hero-worship cannot contain a figure as transgressive as Joan. Instead, they must leap forward imaginatively, to a point after she has finished leading France to glory and has died, a point where they can commemorate her without confronting the troublesome ways she disrupts their patriarchal authority. The article examines both the implications of the French nobles' actions in the play and the reasons that this particular usage of tomb imagery does not appear elsewhere in early modern English drama.

Characterization of a canine model of glycogen storage disease type IIIa. Glycogen storage disease type IIIa (GSD IIIa) is an autosomal recessive disease caused by deficiency of glycogen debranching enzyme (GDE) in liver and muscle. The disorder is clinically heterogeneous and progressive, and there is no effective treatment. Previously, a naturally occurring dog model for this condition was identified in curly-coated retrievers (CCR). The affected dogs carry a frame-shift mutation in the GDE gene and have no detectable GDE activity in liver and muscle. We characterized in detail the disease expression and progression in eight dogs from age 2 to 16 months. Monthly blood biochemistry revealed elevated and gradually increasing serum alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities; serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK) activity exceeded normal range after 12 months. Analysis of tissue biopsy specimens at 4, 12 and 16 months revealed abnormally high glycogen contents in liver and muscle of all dogs. Fasting liver glycogen content increased from 4 months to 12 months, but dropped at 16 months possibly caused by extended fibrosis; muscle glycogen content continually increased with age. Light microscopy revealed significant glycogen accumulation in hepatocytes at all ages. Liver histology showed progressive, age-related fibrosis. In muscle, scattered cytoplasmic glycogen deposits were present in most cells at 4 months, but large, lake-like accumulation developed by 12 and 16 months. Disruption of the contractile apparatus and fraying of myofibrils was observed in muscle at 12 and 16 months by electron microscopy. In conclusion, the CCR dogs are an accurate model of GSD IIIa that will improve our understanding of the disease progression and allow opportunities to investigate treatment interventions.

Emerging pharmaceutical therapies for osteoarthritis. The prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA) and the burden associated with the disease are steadily increasing worldwide, representing a major public health challenge for the coming decades. The lack of specific treatments for OA has led to it being recognized as a serious disease that has an unmet medical need. Advances in the understanding of OA pathophysiology have enabled the identification of a variety of potential therapeutic targets involved in the structural progression of OA, some of which are promising and under clinical investigation in randomized controlled trials. Emerging therapies include those targeting matrix-degrading proteases or senescent chondrocytes, promoting cartilage repair or limiting bone remodelling, local low-grade inflammation or Wnt signalling. In addition to these potentially disease-modifying OA drugs (DMOADs), several targets are being explored for the treatment of OA-related pain, such as nerve growth factor inhibitors. The results of these studies are expected to considerably reshape the landscape of OA management over the next few years. This Review describes the pathophysiological processes targeted by emerging therapies for OA, along with relevant clinical data and discussion of the main challenges for the further development of these therapies, to provide context for the latest advances in the field of pharmaceutical therapies for OA.

Molecular Solar Thermal Energy Storage Systems with Long Discharge Times Based on the Dihydroazulene/Vinylheptafulvene Couple. Molecular solar thermal energy storage (MOST) systems based on photochromic molecules that undergo photoisomerization to high-energy isomers are attractive for storage of solar energy in a closed-energy cycle. One challenge is to control the discharge time of the high-energy isomer. Here we show that incorporation of a strong acceptor substituent in the seven-membered ring of the dihydroazulene/vinylheptafulvene (DHA/VHF) couple increases the half-life of the energy-releasing VHF-to-DHA back-reaction from hours to more than a day in a polar solvent. For some derivatives, the absorption maximum of the photo-active DHA is also significantly redshifted, thereby better matching the solar spectrum. Synthetic protocols and kinetics studies are presented together with a computational study of the energy densities of the systems and excitation spectra. The computations show that the increased lifetime of the high-energy isomer is counter-balanced by a lower energy storage capacity in vacuo than for the parent system, but a slightly higher energy density than for the parent system in a polar solvent.

Health-related quality of life in persons with apparent treatment-resistant hypertension on at least four antihypertensives. Little is known about the impact of treatment-resistant hypertension (TRH) on health-related quality of life (HrQoL). We aimed to compare HrQoL measures in adults with apparent TRH (aTRH) and non-resistant hypertension among nationally representative US Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data pooled from 2000 to 2011. Cohorts compared were adults with aTRH (>= 2 unique fills from >= 4 antihypertensive classes during a year) versus non-resistant hypertension (those with hypertension not meeting the aTRH definition). Key outcomes were cohort differences in SF-12v2 physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores and disease-state utility using the SF-6D. Of 57 150 adults with hypertension, 2501 (4.4%) met criteria for aTRH. Persons with aTRH, compared with non-resistant hypertension, were older (mean, 68 vs 61 years), had a higher BMI (30.9 vs 29.7 kgm(-2)) and were more likely to be Black (20% vs 14%), but less likely to be female (46% vs 54%). Persons with aTRH, compared with non-resistant hypertension, had lower mean PCS scores (35.8 vs 43.2; P<0.0001), and utility (0.68 vs 0.74; P<0.0001), but similar MCS scores (49.1 vs 50.4). In multivariable-adjusted analyses, aTRH was associated with a 2.37 (95% CI 1.71 to 3.02) lower PCS score and 0.02 (95% CI 0.01 to 0.03) lower utility, compared with non-resistant hypertension. In conclusion, aTRH was associated with substantially lower HrQoL in physical functioning and health utility, but not in mental functioning, compared with non-resistant hypertension. The multivariable-adjusted reduction in physical functioning was similar in magnitude to previous observations comparing hypertension with no hypertension.

Molecular cytogenetic characterization of mosaicism for a small supernumerary marker chromosome derived from chromosome 8 or r(8)(::p11.22 -> q11.21::) in an 18-year-old female with short stature, obesity, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and intellectual disability. Objective: We present molecular cytogenetic characterization of mosaicism for a small supernumerary marker chromosome (sSMC) derived from chromosome 8.Conclusion: Mosaic sSMC(8) derived from r(8)(::p11.22 -> 111.21::) can be associated with obesity, intellectual disability, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Copyright (C) 2016, Taiwan Association of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Published by Elsevier Taiwan LLC.Results: Array comparative genomic hybridization analysis of the blood revealed a result of arr 8p11.22q11.21 (39,136,065-49,725,726)x2.80 (Log2 ratio = 0.49), consistent with 70-80% mosaicism, encompassing 33 OMIM genes including GOLGA7, AGPAT6, NIOC6-3, KAT6A, and FNTA. The sSMC(8) was r(8)(::p11.22 -> q11.21::). Metaphase fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis using the probes of RP11-754D24 (8p11.21) and RP11-769N21 (8q11.21) showed the sSMC(8) in 12/27 of cultured lymphocytes. Quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction analysis excluded uniparental disomy 8.Materials and Methods: An 18-year-old female presented with short stature, obesity, developmental delay, speech delay, dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and intellectual disability. Cytogenetic analysis of the peripheral blood revealed a karyotype of 47,XX,+mar[22]/46,XX[18]. Array comparative genomic hybridization and metaphase fluorescence in situ hybridization analyses were performed on the peripheral blood to determine the origin and mosaicism of the sSMC, and quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction was used to exclude uniparental disomy.

Type I sigmoid atresia misdiagnosed as Hirschsprung disease. Colonic atresia is a rare entity presenting as a neonatal intestinal obstruction. The authors encountered a case of type I sigmoid atresia that was misdiagnosed as Hirschsprung disease in the neonatal period. The case is discussed herein because of the rarity of the condition and to emphasize the importance of a high index of suspicion for this condition. Copyright (C) 2015, Taiwan Surgical Association. Published by Elsevier Taiwan LLC. All rights reserved.

Giant Solitary Fibrous Tumor of Orbit. Solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) have been reported in various locations in the body. Solitary fibrous tumors are extremely rare tumors, especially when located in the orbit. Diagnosis of SFT cannot be made based on histopathology only because it exhibits a variable microscopic appearance, and necessitates immunohistochemistry to confirm the diagnosis.SFT of orbital region is known as a slow growing and painless tumor. Based on previous studies, increased mitotic rate of the tumor gives the impression that the tumor has a malignant nature. Until now a small number or orbital SFTs were reported and none of them presented with a giant mass protruding out of the orbital cavity. We present a unique case of orbital SFT filling the whole orbital cavity and protruding outward as a giant mass. This case has been reported to expand our knowledge in this debated entity.A 51-year-old man was admitted to our clinic for the evaluation of a mass bulging in his left eye. Clinical examination revealed a painless mass extruding out of the orbital cavity with dimensions of 8 x 7 cm. Exenteration of the left eye including the upper and lower eyelid and reconstruction of the orbital cavity using a temporoparietal fascia flap and a temporal muscle flap was performed.

THE EFFECT OF BORON ADDITION ON THE TENSILE PROPERTIES OF CONTROL-ROLLED AND NORMALIZED C-MN STEELS. Control-rolled and normalized C-Mn steels with and without boron alloying at two finish rolling temperatures of 800-degrees-C and 1000-degrees-C were studied with respect to their tensile properties in order to investigate the role of boron in enhancing the strength of these materials. It was found that in boron steels ultimate tensile strength increased and impact transition temperature decreased owing to a decrease in grain size and an increase in pearlite fraction at both the finish rolling temperatures.

Human mutations highlight an intersubunit cation-pi bond that stabilizes the closed but not open or inactivated states of TRPV channels. An adequate response of a living cell to the ever-changing environment requires integration of numerous sensory inputs. In many cases, it can be achieved even at the level of a single receptor molecule. Polymodal transient receptor potential (TRP) channels have been shown to integrate mechanical, chemical, electric, and thermal stimuli. Inappropriate gating can lead to pathologies. Among the >60 known TRP vanilloid subfamily (V) 4 mutations that interfere with bone development are Y602C or R616Q at the S4-S5 linker. A cation-t bond between the conservative residues Y602 and R616 of neighboring subunits appears likely in many homologous channel structures in a closed state. Our experiments with TRPV4 mutants indicate that the resting closed state remains stable while the bond is substituted by a salt bridge or disulfide bond, whereas disruption of the contact by mutations like Y602C or R616Q produces gain-of-function phenotypes when TRPV4 is heterologously expressed in the Xenopus oocyte or yeast. Our data indicate that the Y602-R616 cation-t interactions link the four S4-S5 linker helices together, forming a girdle backing the closed gate. Analogous cation-a bonds and the girdle are seen in many closed TRP channel structures. This girdle is not observed in the cryo-EM structure of amphibian TRPV4 (Protein Data Bank ID code 61313.1), which appears to be in a different impermeable state we hypothesize this is the inactivated state.

Laryngeal Actinomycosis in an Immunocompromised Patient. Actinomycosis of the larynx represents an unusual presentation for a common bacterium comprising the oral and oropharyngeal florae. There are few cases reported in the literature of laryngeal actinomycosis occurring primarily in the immunocompromised population. Here, we present a case in a 74-year-old man that occurred in the setting of neutropenia as a result of chemotherapy. Once the diagnosis was made with biopsy of the larynx, the infection was resolved after a prolonged course of penicillin-based therapy.

Can we truly rely on the urinary antigen test for the diagnosis? Legionella case report. It is critical to diagnose and treat Legionella pneumonia (LP) immediately after infection because of the associated high mortality. The urine antigen test (UAT) is often used for the diagnosis of LP; however, it cannot detect the serogroups of all Legionella species. A detained medical history and several clinical findings such as liver enzyme elevation and hyponatremia are useful in diagnosis. Some specific types of Legionella are found in compost. Herein, we report a case of LP in which the patient's medical history and several clinical findings were useful for diagnosis.

OZONE AND AEROSOL PRODUCTIVITY OF REACTIVE ORGANICS. A technique developed to determine the amount of ozone and secondary photochemical species generated by the individual organic components of a complex atmospheric organic/NOx mixture (Bowman and Seinfeld, J. geophys. Res, 99, 5309-5324 (1994a)) is used to study the individual contributions of carbonyl, aromatic, alkane, and alkene emissions to ozone and secondary organic and inorganic aerosol species in the South Coast Air Basin of California for the Southern California Air Quality Study (SCAQS) air pollution episode of 27-28 August 1987. Aldehydes exhibit the highest ozone productivity followed by alkenes, and lumped reactive aromatics. The aromatic species and formaldehyde enhance the production of secondary organic and secondary sulfate aerosol, because they are effectively OH sources. The same species, through their effect on both OH and O-3 production, are also significant precursors of HNO3, and consequently, of nitrate aerosol. This methodology can be used in conjunction with urban airshed models to investigate alternative emission control scenarios.

The OFF to ON switching time and ON state consolidation in write-once-read-many-times memory devices based on doped and undoped carbon-sphere/polymer composites. We investigate the write operation in memory devices prepared using thin films of carbon spheres and cross-linked poly(4-vinylphenol) composites. Three types of carbon-spheres (N-doped, B-modified and undoped spheres) are used and their influence on memory characteristics is discussed. These memory devices show write-once-read-many-times (WORM) characteristics with an OFF to ON (high resistance to low resistance) transition at low voltages, of ca. 2 V. We investigate the ON-current. OFF-current and ON to OFF current ratio of devices prepared with composites of the three types of carbon spheres. The results are presented for devices prepared with three different carbon sphere concentration, for each carbon sphere type. The OFF to ON transition occurs in less than 1 mu s and the ON-state in the best case is consolidated in less than 10 mu s, for a write-operation voltage of 5 V. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Assessing parallel gene histories in viral genomes. Background: The increasing abundance of sequence data has exacerbated a long known problem: gene trees and species trees for the same terminal taxa are often incongruent. Indeed, genes within a genome have not all followed the same evolutionary path due to events such as incomplete lineage sorting, horizontal gene transfer, gene duplication and deletion, or recombination. Considering conflicts between gene trees as an obstacle, numerous methods have been developed to deal with these incongruences and to reconstruct consensus evolutionary histories of species despite the heterogeneity in the history of their genes. However, inconsistencies can also be seen as a source of information about the specific evolutionary processes that have shaped genomes.Conclusions: The approach here presented allows turning phylogenetic inconsistencies into evolutionary information, detecting gene assemblies with similar histories, and could be a powerful tool for comparative pathogenomics.Results: The goal of the approach here proposed is to exploit this conflicting information: we have compiled eleven variables describing phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary pressures and submitted them to dimensionality reduction techniques to identify genes with similar evolutionary histories. To illustrate the applicability of the method, we have chosen two viral datasets, namely papillomaviruses and Turnip mosaic virus (TuMV) isolates, largely dissimilar in genome, evolutionary distance and biology. Our method pinpoints viral genes with common evolutionary patterns. In the case of papillomaviruses, gene clusters match well our knowledge on viral biology and life cycle, illustrating the potential of our approach. For the less known TuMV, our results trigger new hypotheses about viral evolution and gene interaction.

Defining episodes of diarrhoea: Results from a three-country study in sub-Saharan Africa. The study was conducted to assess the effect of definition of episode on diarrhoeal morbidity and to develop a means of adjusting estimates of morbidity for the definition of episode used. This paper reports on a cohort study of 374 children, aged 9-32 months, in three African countries, which recorded frequency and consistency of stool over a seven-month period. Different definitions of episode were applied to these data to assess their effect on annualized diarrhoeal morbidity. Adjustment factors were then derived that corrected morbidity for non-standard definitions of episode. Applying non-standard definitions of episode gave estimates of an annualized number of episodes between 38% and 137% of the internationally-accepted definition. Researchers should be encouraged to use the standard definition of episode of diarrhoea and to use appropriate field protocols. Where this is not possible, correction factors should be applied, particularly where estimates of diarrhoeal morbidity are pooled in systematic reviews.

Gap junctions contribute to anchorage-independent clustering of breast cancer cells. Background: Cancer cell aggregation is a key process involved in the formation of clusters of circulating tumor cells. We previously reported that cell-cell adhesion proteins, such as E-cadherin, and desmosomal proteins are involved in cell aggregation to form clusters independently of cell migration or matrix adhesion. Here, we investigated the involvement of gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) during anchorage-independent clustering of MCF7 breast adenocarcinoma cells.Methods: We used live cell image acquisition and analysis to monitor the kinetics of MCF7 cell clustering in the presence/absence of GJIC pharmacological inhibitors and to screen a LOPAC (R) bioactive compound library. We also used a calcein transfer assay and flow cytometry to evaluate GJIC involvement in cancer cell clustering.Results: We first demonstrated that functional GJIC are established in the early phase of cancer cell aggregation. We then showed that pharmacological inhibition of GJIC using tonabersat and meclofenamate delayed MCF7 cell clustering and reduced calcein transfer. We also found that brefeldin A, an inhibitor of vesicular trafficking, which we identified by screening a small compound library, and latrunculin A, an actin cytoskeleton-disrupting agent, both impaired MCF7 cell clustering and calcein transfer.Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that GJIC are involved from the earliest stages of anchorage-independent cancer cell aggregation. They also give insights into the regulatory mechanisms that could modulate the formation of clusters of circulating tumor cells.

COVID-19 Trials: Who Participates and Who Benefits?. Objectives The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has disproportionately afflicted vulnerable populations. Older adults, particularly residents of nursing facilities, represent a small percentage of the population but account for 40% of mortality from COVID-19 in the United States. Racial and ethnic minority individuals, particularly Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous Americans have experienced higher rates of infection and death than the White population. Although there has been an unprecedented explosion of clinical trials to examine potential therapies, participation by members of these vulnerable communities is crucial to obtaining data generalizable to those communities. Methods We undertook an open-label, factorial randomized clinical trial examining hydroxychloroquine and/or azithromycin for hospitalized patients. Results Of 53 screened patients, 11 (21%) were enrolled. Ten percent (3/31) of Black patients were enrolled, 33% (7/21) of White patients, and 50% (6/12) of Hispanic patients. Forty-seven percent (25/53) of patients declined participation despite eligibility; 58%(18/31) of Black patients declined participation. Forty percent (21/53) of screened patients were from a nursing facility and 10% (2/21) were enrolled. Enrolled patients had fewer comorbidities than nonenrolled patients: median modified Charlson comorbidity score 2.0 (interquartile range 0-2.5), versus 4.0 (interquartile range 2-6) for nonenrolled patients (P = 0.006). The limitations of the study were the low participation rate and the multiple treatment trials concurrently recruiting at our institution. Conclusions The high rate of nonparticipation in our trial of nursing facility residents and Black people emphasizes the concern that clinical trials for therapeutics may not target key populations with high mortality rates.

New siloxane-organic polyesters with azobenzene side chains. Synthesis, thermotropic behavior and surface properties. New siloxane-organic polyesters, bearing azotype units in the side chain, were synthesized by direct solution polycondensation at room temperature, starting from 2,2-[4-[(4-nitrophenyl)azolphenyl]iminobisethanol (Disperse Red 19) and different siloxane diacids, using dicyclohexylcarbodiimide as an activator and 4-(N,N-dimethylamino)pyridinium-p-toluenesulfonate as the catalyst. The structure of the obtained polyesters was confirmed by H-1 and C-13 NMR as well as IR spectroscopy. The molecular weight and polydispersity were estimated by GPC. The thermotropic behavior was investigated by POM, DSC and TOA. The surface composition was determined by ESCA (XPS) analysis and proved enrichment in silicon for all samples. All compounds show good solubility in common organic solvents.

Optimal mission abort policy with multiple shock number thresholds. At many instances, it is important to keep a system from being destroyed or \\'lost\\' at a cost of not completing its mission. Therefore, to enhance survivability of many real-world critical systems (e.g. aircrafts and human space flight systems), mission abort procedures are often utilized in practice. In this article, in order to suggest an optimal abort policy, we first develop a methodology for obtaining the mission success probability and survivability of system experiencing both internal failures and external shocks. Each shock increases degradation in a system, and therefore, the number of experienced shocks can be considered as a decision parameter. We divide the mission time into a number of adjacent intervals and suggest a policy when a mission is aborted (and a rescue procedure is activated) if the number of shocks exceeds the value predetermined for each interval. We demonstrate the trade-off between system survivability and mission success probability that should be balanced by the proper choice of the mission abort policy. An illustrative example of a mission performed by an unmanned aerial vehicle is presented.

Heretics and infidels - The 'Cantigas de Santa Maria' as ideological instrument of cultural codification. In the Cantigas de Santa Maria, King Alfonso X unveils an intricate cultural, political, and economic system that defines the relationship between Christian society and religious minorities. This article illustrates that the Cantigas must be understood as an ideological instrument Of Cultural codification that reaffirms the established Christian social order in relation to three principal groups: heretics, Jews, and muslims.

Profiling fragments for carotenoid esters in Penaeus monodon by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole-Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry. Rationale The precise identification of carotenoid esters of Penaeus monodon, especially those in the carotenoid skeleton, needs to occur during mass spectrometry analysis. Detailed structural information about carotenoid esters is significant not only for the assessment of nutritional quality, but also for tracing biosynthetic precursors.Conclusions Characterization of the unknown carotenoid esters demonstrates the capabilities of this methodology, which is significant for enriching the carotenoid species in P. monodon.Results The structurally relevant ions, *l and *m, were considered markers of the astaxanthin monoester. Moreover, the carotenoid skeleton was unequivocally identified using the diagnostic ions *i, *j/*j' and *g/*g' generated by the carbon-carbon bond cleavage between beta-ionone ketones and conjugated polyene moieties. In total, 24 carotenoid esters were identified in P. monodon based on the fragmentation patterns discussed above. The identified carotenoid skeleton includes astaxanthin, astacene, oxidized astaxanthin and adonixanthin, which have been described for the first time.Methods The profiling of carotenoid esters in P. monodon was elucidated using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC/Q-Orbitrap-HRMS). The raw LC/MS data were analyzed using Exact Finder (TM) software.

Syncrip/hnRNP Q influences synaptic transmission and regulates BMP signaling at the Drosophila neuromuscular synapse. Synaptic plasticity involves the modulation of synaptic connections in response to neuronal activity via multiple pathways. One mechanism modulates synaptic transmission by retrograde signals from the post-synapse that influence the probability of vesicle release in the pre-synapse. Despite its importance, very few factors required for the expression of retrograde signals, and proper synaptic transmission, have been identified. Here, we identify the conserved RNA binding protein Syncrip as a new factor that modulates the efficiency of vesicle release from the motoneuron and is required for correct synapse structure. We show that syncrip is required genetically and its protein product is detected only in the muscle and not in the motoneuron itself. This unexpected non-autonomy is at least partly explained by the fact that Syncrip modulates retrograde BMP signals from the muscle back to the motoneuron. We show that Syncrip influences the levels of the Bone Morphogenic Protein ligand Glass Bottom Boat from the post-synapse and regulates the pre-synapse. Our results highlight the RNA-binding protein Syncrip as a novel regulator of synaptic output. Given its known role in regulating translation, we propose that Syncrip is important for maintaining a balance between the strength of presynaptic vesicle release and postsynaptic translation.

Global Distribution of Superbolts. We use World Wide Lightning Location Network (WWLLN) data on the radiated radio frequency electromagnetic energy per stroke to identify the upper tip of the global lightning stroke energy distribution. The mean stroke energy is about 1,000 J per stroke in the very low frequency band between 5 and 18 kHz, while the distribution used in this paper is limited to strokes in that band above 1 MJ, about 3 orders of magnitude above the mean. It is shown that these energies are representative of the tip of the optical distribution, first identified by Turman (1977) above 10 GW per stroke, which he termed \\'superbolts.\\' The distribution peaks globally in the Northern Hemisphere winter (November-February) with most superbolts being found in the North Atlantic west of Europe, the winter Mediterranean Sea, and a strong local maximum over the Andes in South America. We identify regions with somewhat fewer superbolts in the North Pacific east of Japan in winter, along the equator of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans and south of South Africa. We find very few superbolts during April-October each year. While superbolts are scattered around the globe, the local occurrence peaks do not coincide with the usual three main lightning \\'chimneys.\\' Unlike the distribution of all normal global lightning, we find superbolts predominantly over the oceans and seas, with fewer over the continents, just the opposite of all global lightning.

Rapid measurement of total acid content (TAC) in vinegar using near infrared spectroscopy based on efficient variables selection algorithm and nonlinear regression tools. Total acid content (TAC) is an important index in assessing vinegar quality. This work attempted to determine TAC in vinegar using near infrared spectroscopy. We systematically studied variable selection and nonlinear regression in calibrating regression models. First, the efficient spectra intervals were selected by synergy interval PLS (Si-PLS); then, two nonlinear regression tools, which were extreme learning machine (ELM) and back propagation artificial neural network (BP-ANN), were attempted. Experiments showed that the model based on ELM and Si-PLS (Si-ELM) was superior to others, and the optimum results were achieved as follows: the root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) was 0.2486 g/100 mL, and the correlation coefficient (R-p) was 0.9712 in the prediction set. This work demonstrated that the TAC in vinegar could be rapidly measured by NIR spectroscopy and Si-ELM algorithm showed its superiority in model calibration. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING AND RISKY DECISION MAKING IN YOUNG MALE OFFENDERS. Executive functioning (EF) deficits have been implicated in antisocial behavior. EF constitutes a broad selection of functions, and it is yet to be determined what specific aspects of EF are associated with antisocial behavior. This study examines IQ, EF, and related decision-making processes in young males involved with the criminal justice system and their age-matched male controls. The Risky Choice Task (RCT), the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), and tests taken from the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) assessing spatial working memory, planning, and set-shifting ability were administered. Young offenders showed lower estimated IQ scores and perseveration of responding, as indicated by performance on the WCST. There were also specific EF impairments, such as problems in working memory and planning (CANTAB). Finally, young offenders showed more risky decision-making than controls did, particularly after a small win. The results on the RCT suggest altered reward mechanisms in young offenders, whereas the findings also support the notion of EF difficulties related to dorsolateral and ventromedial prefrontal cortex functioning. The implications of these findings for interventions with young offenders are discussed.

Redescription and Phylogenetic Analysis of the Mandible of an Enigmatic Pennsylvanian (Late Carboniferous) Tetrapod from Nova Scotia, and the Lability of Meckelian Jaw Ossification. The lower jaw of an unidentified Pennsylvanian (Late Carboniferous) tetrapod from Nova Scotia - the \\'Parrsboro jaw\\' - is redescribed in the light of recent tetrapod discoveries and work on evolution of tetrapod mandibular morphology and placed for the first time in a numerical cladistics analysis. All phylogenetic analyses place the jaw in a crownward polytomy of baphetids, temnospondyls, and embolomeres. Several features resemble baphetids and temnospondyls including dermal ornamentation, absence of coronoid teeth, and presence of coronoid shagreen. Dentary dentition is most similar to Baphetes. An adsymphysial toothplate may not preclude temnospondyl affinity. An apparent large exomeckelian fenestra, with the dorsal foraminal margins formed by an unossified element, echoes the morphology of the stem tetrapod Sigournea and is unusually primitive given the other features of the jaw. The jaw may thus provide an example of an intermediate stage in Meckelian element evolution.

Influence of a DC corona discharge on the airflow along an inclined flat plate. Visualizations and measurements by Particle Imaging Velocimetry are conducted in a wind tunnel in order to determine the influence of a DC corona discharge established between a wire and a plate collecting electrode on the properties of an airflow around a flat plate. Results show that the kinetic energy induced by the ionic wind inside the boundary layer allows a drag reduction for low Reynolds numbers (Re-L < 68,600). (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Analysis of pathogenetic factors of persistent hypertension in patients with pheochromocytoma who underwent unilateral adrenalectomy. Conclusions In patients with arterial hypertension due to pheochromocytoma adrenalectomy leads to a permanent improvement of maximal values of systolic and diastolic blood pressure.Background Surgery is a method of choice in the treatment of patients with pheochromocytoma. The aim of the study was to analyse factors which participate in pathogenesis of persistent hypertension in patients who underwent unilateral adrenalectomy due to pheochromocytoma.Material and methods In the analysed group of 25 patients mean value of maximal systolic blood pressure (SBP) before surgery was 232.6 +/- 38.5 mm Hg, and diastolic (DBP) 133.3 +/- 22.2 mm Hg. In 40% of patients arterial hypertension was permanent, and in 60% -paroxysmal. Mean maximal tumour size in diagnostic imaging was 58.1 +/- 19.6 mm. Mean time of observation after adrenalectomy was 48.0 +/- 28.4 months.Results A significant decrease of maximal SBP and DBP after surgery was achieved (-85.9 +/- 36.9 and -44.1 +/- 22.8 mm Hg respectively). A positive correlation between decrease of SBP and DBP after surgery and maximal tumour size was revealed. Accidental value of SBP measured in patients after surgery was 124.6 +/- 18.3 mm Hg, and DBP - 79.0 +/- 9.2 mm Hg. In 56% of patients accidental blood pressure values were lower than 140/90 mm Hg without any antihipertensive drugs. In patients who required pharmacological therapy significant longer duration of arterial hypertension before adrenalectomy (mean 76.3 +/- 63.5 vs. 30.5 +/- 44.1 months) and older age of patients at the time of surgery (mean 46.4 +/- 10.2 vs. 38.3 +/- 9.8 years) were observed.Longer duration of arterial hypertension before surgery and older age of patients significantly contribute to worse results of adrenalectomy and necessity of antihipertensive therapy in order to keep blood pressure values in the normal range.

Technological progress and Chinese agricultural growth in the 1990s. The paper examines the factors contributing to the sharp recovery of China's agricultural production in the 1990s in contrast to the stagnation in the late 1980s, and analyzes the policy effects during this period paying special attention to the role of technological progress. Using data from 28 provinces covering the years 1991-1999, a conventional production model and an extended production model with time-effects are estimated using random-effects estimation and a growth accounting for land productivity is evaluated. The results show that technological progress plays the dominant role in the recovery, accounting for 58% of total productivity growth during the sample period, while an increase in fertilizer use is second, with about 19%. Extension of the land tenure to 30 years for farm households could be a policy encouraging adoption of new technologies and more investment. The contribution of this policy change accounts for 21% in the productivity growth in the period. Increase in mechanized farming, plastic film input and education are all factors contributing to China's agricultural growth in the 1990s. (c) 2005 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Apostate Messiah: Scholem, Taubes and the Occlusions of Sabbatai Zevi. This article explores Scholem's and Taubes's interpretation of the phenomenon of Sabbatai Zevi. It argues that in spite of their differences, both writers agree with contemporary adversaries of Zevi regarding his conversion to Islam. The article reconsiders the contemporary evidence surrounding Zevi's death, and interprets it as a second \\'occlusion\\'. It states the case for a reconsideration of the case of Sabbatai Zevi beyond the prejudices of his contemporary adversaries and Enlightenment critics of messianism in particular and religion in general.

You may think that; I couldn't possibly comment!' Modality studies: Contemporary research and future directions. Part I. This two-part article critically reviews eight recent works in the field of mood and modality. Part I explores three different theoretical approaches - generative, cognitive-pragmatic, and typological with the main focus on languages other than English. Within the framework of generative grammar, research issues include: the epistemic-root interpretations of modal verbs; transitive-intransitive (dyadic-monadic) alternations; modal verb complementation, and the interaction of the modals with other systems, including negation, and alternate ways of encoding modality. The cognitive-pragmatic approach hones in on epistemic modality, and focuses on the cognitive mechanisms that become activated once speakers express evaluations of given states of affairs, involving various modal expression types. Reflecting mounting interest in grammatical typology as a whole, typological approaches to modality recognize this domain as a valid cross-language grammatical category, similar to tense and aspect, and establish a range of typological categories, which include propositional modality (epistemic and evidential) and event modality (deontic and dynamic). Part I also includes a descriptive account of the modal verb system in Danish. In Part II, the emphasis is on work in relation to (primarily) English, much of which is corpus-driven, and on non-verbal as well as verbal carriers of modal meanings. Thus, description and analysis move purposefully towards a more comprehensive account of the field, to embrace modal expressions such as modal lexical verbs, modal adverbs, and modal adjectives. The pragmatics of modality; the discursive functions of modal expressions, especially modal adverbs; and the treatment of modality in modem descriptive grammars of English are also covered.

Characterization of glucosylceramides in Pseudallescheria boydii and their involvement in fungal differentiation. Pseudallescheria boydii is a fungal pathogen that causes disease in immunocompromised patients. Ceramide monohexosides (CMHs) were purified from lipidic extracts of this fungus, showing that, as described for several other species, P. boydii synthesizes glucosylceramides as major neutral glycosphingolipids. CMHs from P. boydii were analyzed by high-performance thin-layer chromatography, gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, fast atom bombardment-mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance. These combination of techniques allowed the identification of CMHs from P. boydii as molecules containing a glucose residue attached to 9-methyl-4,8-sphingadienine in amidic linkage to 2-hydroxyoctadecanoic or 2-hydroxyhexadecanoic acids. Antibodies from a rabbit infected with P. boydii recognized CMHs from this fungus. Antibodies to CMH were purified from serum and used in indirect immunofluorescence, which revealed that CMHs are detectable on the surface of mycelial and pseudohyphal but not conidial forms of P. boydii, suggesting a differential expression of glucosylceramides according with morphological phase. We also investigated the influence of antibodies to CMH on growth and germ tube formation in P. boydii. Cultures that were supplemented with these antibodies failed to form mycelium, but the latter was not affected once formed. Similar experiments were performed to evaluate whether antibodies to CMH would influence germ tube formation in Candida albicans, a fungal pathogen that synthesizes glucosylceramide and uses differentiation as a virulence factor. Addition of antiglucosylceramide antibodies to cultures of C. albicans clearly inhibited the generation of germ tubes. These results indicated that fungal CMHs might be involved in the differentiation and, consequently, play a role on the infectivity of fungal cells.

Influence of different allelic variants of the CYP3A and ABCB1 genes on the tacrolimus pharmacokinetic profile of Chinese renal transplant recipients. Tacrolimus has a narrow therapeutic window and a wide interindividual variation in its pharmacokinetics. The cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) and the ATP-binding cassette B1 (ABCB1) genes play an important role in the tacrolimus disposition. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether CYP3A and ABCB1 polymorphisms are associated with the area under the time concentration curve (AUC(0-12)) calculated using a two time point sample strategy. The CYP3A and ABCB1 genotypes were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) assays in 103 Chinese renal transplant recipients and consequently related to their dose-normalized (dn)AUC(0-12). A significant allele-dependent effect (Kruskal-Wallis; p < 0.001) was observed between the CYP3A5*3 polymorphism and the dnAUC(0-12). Multiple regression analysis showed that the CYP3A5*3 polymorphism is the most significant independent variable and explained 35% of the dose requirement variability in relation to tacrolimus use. Regarding the ABCB1 G2677T/A and C3435T polymorphisms, a trend was observed between the different genotypes and the dnAUC(0-12). In conclusion, the CYP3A5*3 polymorphism may be an important factor in determining the dose requirement for tacrolimus and genotyping can help determine the initial daily dose required by individual patients for adequate immunosuppression.

Continuity of functions operating on characteristic functions. For a locally compact abelian group G let P-0(C) denote the set of all characteristic functions on G (i.e., continuous positive definite functions phi with phi(0) = 1). A complex-valued function f is said to operate on P-0(G) if f(phi((.))) is an element of P-0(G) whenever phi is an element of P-0(G). The natural domain for functions operating on P-0(G) is the set D(G) = {z is an element of C: z = phi(g), g is an element of G, phi is an element of P-0(G)}. It is known that every function operating on P-0(G) is continuous on the interior of D(C) for each infinite group G. On the other hand, functions discontinuous on D(G) operate on P-0(C) for any discrete G. We show that, for any non-discrete group G, every function operating on P-0(G) is continuous on D(G). Together with some earlier results, this statement allows us to obtain a constructive description of operating functions on the whole set D(G).

DIFFERENCES IN BIOENERGETIC AND LIFE-HISTORY TRAITS BETWEEN 2 GENERATIONS OF NEPHELOPSIS-OBSCURA DUE TO THE PREHISTORY OF THEIR PARENTS. 1. Partitioning of energy between metabolic demands can affect life-history traits and ecological successes. In this study bioenergetic and life-history traits (growth rate, ingestion, respiration, energy storage, size and age at maturity) were compared for early summer and late summer Nephelopsis obscura reared from cocoons collected from the field and maintained in the laboratory under identical conditions until sexual maturity and maximum size. 2. The late summer generation had a faster growth rate, higher lipid storage, higher proportion of energy available for growth and metabolism, earlier maturation and larger maximum size than the early summer generation. However, there were no differences in consumption of prey or respiration between the two generations. 3. Based upon the balance between energy intake and expenditure, a model predicting the size at which energy should be allocated to reproduction and maximum body size when energy absorption equals energy cost is described. 4. Gel electrophoresis of 28 enzymes showed no significant genetic difference between the early and late summer generations. 5. As both the early summer and late summer generations were hatched in the laboratory and maintained under identical conditions, in the absence of genetic differences, the observed differences in physiological ecology and life-history traits can only be attributed to differences in prehistory experienced by their parents.

EMILE ZOLA, LITERATURE, CELEBRITY AND TIE-IN OBJECTS IN THE NINETEENTH-CENTURY BRAZIL. When accessing Brazilian journals of the past, researchers in Letters and related areas can understand more clearly the circulation of foreign literature in Brazil and its acceptance by the readers. In this article, we seek to show the process of popularization of French literature in Brazil in the last decades of the nineteenth century and the first years of the twentieth century, particularly, naturalistic literature and, especially, through the public figure of one of its greatest exponents - Emile Zola. From the perspective adopted, the study of the literary text in its internal nets of meaning production is secondary in relation to the reflection on the social importance of novels and their characters, writers and tie-in objects of consumption. These values of a rapidly expanding society involve the production and mainly the circulation of cultural goods inserted in a process of globalization. Our approach aims to look into the literary phenomenon as it has occurred in the past while allowing a glimpse of the readers' profile at that time, their tastes and their ways of consumption, from a transnational perspective.

Scale inhibition performance of calcium sulfate by 1,6-diaminohexane-contained polyaminoamide dendrimers: Static experiment and MD simulation. The calcium sulfate scale is a common scale in the industrial water system, which is difficult to be removed by common chemical cleaning methods. In this paper, a new phosphorous free of 1,6Diaminohexane-contained polyaminoamide dendrimers (PAMAM) scale inhibitor with a threedimensional (3D) branched structure has been developed. The scale inhibition performances of different generations of PAMAM dendrimers (PAMAM-mid, PAMAM-0G, PAMAM-0.5G and PAMAM-1G) are estimated by the static scale inhibition method. Moreover, the effects of the scale inhibitor concentrations and solution temperatures on the CaSO4 scale inhibition efficiency are thoroughly discussed. Results indicate that the PAMAM-mid and PAMAM-0.5G) exhibit excellent inhibition performance on CaSO4 precipitation. Especially, the CaSO4 scale inhibition efficiency of PAMAM-0.5G is above 95% when the dose is 10 mg/L, and the corresponding value is almost 100% when the inhibitor dose is 20 mg/L. In addition, the influence of descaling agents on the crystal and morphology of CaSO4 scales are studied by XRD and SEM tests. The results show that the scale inhibition ability of the PAMAM molecules mainly inhibits the growth of these crystal planes by adsorption on the surface of the growing crystal. Molecular dynamics simulation results find that the PAMAM-0.5G dendrimer molecule can energetically interact well with three crystal planes of calcium sulfate dihydrate. Finally, the simulation results provide a theoretical guidance to judge the performance of scale inhibitors and synthesize new high-efficiency scale inhibitor. (c) 2022 The Korean Society of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Magnetic Fano resonances by design in symmetry broken THz meta-foils. Magnetic Fano resonances in there-dimensional symmetry broken meta-foils at THz frequencies are theoretically and experimentally studied. Sharp Fano resonances occur due to the interference between different resonances and can be designed by choosing geometric parameters of the meta-foil. At the Fano resonances, the meta-foil supports antisymmetric modes, whereas, at the main resonance, only a symmetric mode exists. The meta-foil is left-handed at the Fano resonances and shows sharp peaks of the real part of the refractive index in transmission with small effective losses opening a way to very sensitive high-speed sensing of dielectric changes in the surrounding media and of mechanical configuration.

Synthesis and characterization of In-Tl-Sb compounds grown by molecular beam epitaxy. The growth of TlSb and InTlSb compounds has been investigated by molecular beam epitaxy. Tl and Sb were found to produce a two phase mixture of elemental Sb and a Tl rich Tl7Sb2 phase. This two phase mixture was the dominant phase produced throughout a variety of substrate temperatures which ranged from 200 to 425 degrees C. Varying the V/III ratio did not affect the phases produced but rather, only affected the amount of excess Sb found at the surface. The composition of the Tl7Sb2 phase was determined by electron moicroprobe analysis and confirmed with x-ray diffraction (XRD). XRD also indicated that the Tl7Sb2 phase exists in a complex multiatom per unit cell CsCl structure. Similar to the binary TlSb system, attempts to grow ternary InTlSb did not produce a single phase material. In this case a three phase mixture of InSb, elemental Sb, and Tl7Sb2 was produced throughout a range of growth conditions. (C) 1999 American Vacuum Society. [S0734-2101(99)05102-7].

Retrospective recall of childhood psychopathology. Current methods of studying adult outcome of childhood psychiatric disorder are limited by the availability of contemporaneous childhood records. Such records will not be available for many potential subject groups, and, when available, there may be considerable variability in their quality. This paper reports the development and initial validation of an interview measure designed to collect information from adult subjects about their childhood experiences and psychiatric symptoms, the Retrospective Childhood Experiences and Psychopathology Schedule (RECAP). Information collected using the retrospective interview was compared to contemporaneous childhood psychiatric records; this showed the RECAP to be reliable and valid in assessing childhood psychopathology retrospectively. Factors facilitating recall, including the style of the interview, and differences in validity for the different symptom areas are examined and discussed.

Aflatoxin production and in vitro toxicity of Aspergilli section Flavi isolated from air samples collected from different environments. Aspergilli section Flavi, originally isolated from air samples collected from inhabited apartments (AP), unoccupied basements (BS), and processing facilities of a grain mill (GM), were analyzed for their potential to produce aflatoxin B-1 (AFB(1)) on solid media. The isolates were further characterized with regard to their cytotoxic, genotoxic, and pro-inflammatory properties in vitro. Aspergilli were identified based on partial calmodulin (CaM) gene sequencing; the producing capacities of isolates were analyzed by HPLC/FLD and confirmed by genes in biosynthesis (aflR, norA, omtA). In the grain mill, the Aspergilli section Flavi (up to 1.3x10(6)cfu/m(3)) dominated by AFB(1)-producing Aspergillus flavus (71%, 4.5-5254ng/ml) which showed a serious health risk for workers. Living environments were not relevant sources of exposure. After 24h, AFB(1) (1-100 mu mol/l) reduced cell viability (MTT test) in both A549 cells and THP-1 macrophage-like cells without reaching IC50. In A549 cells, the extract of the AFB(1)-producing A. flavus significantly decreased cell viability but not below 50%. THP-1 macrophage-like cells were more sensitive to both extracts, but IC50 was obtained only for the AFB(1)-producing strain (0.37mg/ml; AFB(1) 2.78 mu mol/l). AFB(1) (1 and 10 mu mol/l) induced significant DNA damage (tail intensity, alkaline comet assay) in A549 cells in contrast to Aspergilli extracts. AFB(1) elevated IL-6 and IL-8, while Aspergilli extracts increased IL-1 beta, TNF-alpha, and IL-17 release in THP-1 macrophages (ELISA). Chronic exposure to AFB(1) and/or other metabolites in airborne A. flavus from occupational environments may stimulate epithelial damage of airways accompanied by lowered macrophage viability.

A Review of Atmospheric Electricity Research in China. The importance of atmospheric electricity research has been increasingly recognized in recent decades. Research on atmospheric electricity has been actively conducted since the 1980s in China. Lightning physics and its effects, as important branches of atmospheric electricity, have received more attention because of their significance both in scientific research and lightning protection applications. This paper reviews atmospheric electricity research based primarily on ground-based field experiments at different regions in China in the last decade. The results described in this review include physics and effects of lightning, rocket-triggered lightning and its physical processes of discharge, thunderstorm electricity on the Tibetan Plateau and its surrounding areas, lightning activity associated with severe convective storms, the effect and response of lightning to climate change, numerical simulation of thunderstorm electrification and lightning discharge, lightning detection and location techniques, and transient luminous events above thunderstorms.

Action plan for the management of special wastewater in the city La Libertad, El Salvador. This article describes the preparation of an action plan to improve the management of wastewater of special type generated in the commercial sector of the city La Libertad, in El Salvador; as an academic contribution to development of competencies for environmental management in general and management of special type wastewater, in particular.The objective of the action plan is to reduce environmental pollution by special wastewater generated by the economic activity of the city La Libertad; and the plan is structured according to three areas of intervention: political, environmental education, and technical-scientific. Given the importance of environmental education, a pilot test was developed, that consisted of training workshops with sectors directly related to the generation and management of wastewater of special type.The methodology for the preparation of the action plan was participatory; as a result, a management group was formed by stakeholders directly involved in the generation and management of wastewater

GRANULOCYTE-MACROPHAGE-COLONY STIMULATING FACTOR FOR PREVENTION OF NEUTROPENIA AND INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH SOLID TUMORS - RESULTS OF A PROSPECTIVE RANDOMIZED STUDY. Background. Chemotherapy is an essential modality of curative strategies in pediatric oncology. Dose and dose intensity are, above all, restricted by the myelosuppressive effects of cytotoxic drugs. Neutropenia constitutes an important risk of morbidity and mortality. Granulocyte-macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) is a hematopoietic growth factor that increases the number of circulating neutrophils as demonstrated in adults.Methods. A prospective randomized study of the effects of GM-CSF was performed with 11 patients who were treated for solid tumors and received GM-CSF for 2 weeks starting 48 hours after completion of chemotherapy. Forty-two intraindividual identical chemotherapy-courses with and 42 without GM-CSF were compared. The monitoring program included the surveillance of the hematological reconstitution and the number and duration of infectious episodes.Conclusions. In children and adolescents undergoing intensive chemotherapy for solid tumors, GM-CSF reduces neutropenia and infectious episodes at the cost of mild thrombocytopenia.Results. The average nadir of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) with GM-CSF was higher than without GMCSF. The average number of days with an ANC below 500/mu l was significantly reduced by GM-CSF. Fewer infectious episodes were observed among those who received GM-CSF therapy. Erythropoiesis was not significantly influenced by GM-CSF, whereas patients with GM-CSF therapy showed a longer thrombocytopenia without requiring more platelet transfusions. Rashes developed in two patients.

Parent Hamiltonian for the non-Abelian chiral spin liquid. We construct a parent Hamiltonian for the family of non-Abelian chiral spin liquids proposed recently by two of us [Phys. Rev. Lett. 102, 207203 (2009)] which includes the Abelian chiral spin liquid proposed by Kalmeyer and Laughlin as the special case s = 1/2. As we use a circular disk geometry with an open boundary, both the annihilation operators we identify and the Hamiltonians we construct from these are exact only in the thermodynamic limit.

Asphalt mixes deformation sensitivity to change in rheological parameters. An algorithm for determining the rheological parameters of asphalt mixes in the creep test in the Nottingham Asphalt Tester (NAT) is presented. It was found that the smallest errors in identification of the rheological parameters are made for the third cycle of loading. The determined rheological parameters were verified by testing the mixes in the French Pavement Rutting Tester (FPRT), for which a rutting test model based on the finite-element method (FEM) was developed. Also the deformability of the asphalt mixes tested in the FPRT is analyzed. It is found that the viscosity coefficient eta(1), and the delayed elasticity coefficient E-2 have a significant effect on rut depth in the rutting tester model. An analysis of the deformation sensitivity of the viscoelastic courses in a pavement structure model shows that the binder course's rheological parameters, especially the viscosity coefficient eta(1), contribute most to rutting in the pavement. The deformation of this course is determined by the duration of the load. The deformation of the wearing course is influenced by the delayed elasticity modulus E-2, and it depends mainly on the time between cycles of loading.

Low-Voltage Electric Arc Reconstruction From Magnetic Field Measurements. The knowledge of current density distribution gives important information for the study of the electric arc in low-voltage circuit breakers. Available experimental approaches to investigate the electric arc behavior include electrical measurements, optical, and magnetic diagnostic techniques. However, noninvasive experimental methods able to obtain the electric arc current density cannot be found in the literature. This article presents a nonintrusive diagnostic technique able to reconstruct the 3-D electric arc current density from its magnetic field measurements by solving a magnetic inverse problem. This inverse problem is known to be ill-posed, and Tikhonov regularization is used together with the L-curve method. Zero-divergence condition on the current density and boundary conditions are incorporated into the formulation of the inverse problem with the help of Whitney elements. A magnetic field measurement system is developed based on a Hall-effect magnetic sensor array and a data acquisition board. The sensor array is composed of 64 mono-axial analog-bipolar sensors distributed in eight columns and eight rows. The maximum measurable magnetic field of the sensor is 9 mT. The data acquisition board consists of eight analog-to-digital converters with a maximum sampling rate of 200 kHz and a 16-bits resolution. Experimental tests are carried out using the proposed method in order to study the arc dynamics. The reconstructions are compared with those of an optical diagnostic technique based on a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera.

Travelling-wave spatially periodic forcing of asymmetric binary mixtures. We study travelling-wave spatially periodic solutions of a forced Cahn-Hilliard equation. This is a model for phase separation of a binary mixture, subject to external forcing. We look at arbitrary values of the mean mixture concentration, corresponding to asymmetric mixtures (previous studies have only considered the symmetric case). We characterize in depth one particular solution which consists of an oscillation around the mean concentration level, using a range of techniques, both numerical and analytical. We determine the stability of this solution to small-amplitude perturbations. Next, we use methods developed elsewhere in the context of shallow-water waves to uncover a (possibly infinite) family of multiple-spike solutions for the concentration profile, which linear stability analysis demonstrates to be unstable. Throughout the work, we perform thorough parametric studies to outline for which parameter values the different solution types occur. (C) 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Protective Effects of Arachidonic Acid Against Paraquat-Induced Pulmonary Injury. In this study, we aimed to study the effects of arachidonic acid (AA) on acute lung injury (ALI) caused by paraquat (PQ) in mice. Male Kunming mice were randomly divided into three groups: control group, PQ group, and PQ + AA group (n = 24). The mice in the PQ and PQ + AA groups received a single oral dose of 20 mg/kg bodyweight PQ, and the mice of the PQ + AA group were challenged by 500 mg/kg bodyweight AA posttreatment 2 h after PQ administration. The results indicated that the administration of AA significantly increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), decreased the activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO), the content of malondialdehyde (MDA), and the level of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Pathological examination also revealed that AA effectively alleviated PQ-induced histological damage. Furthermore, AA significantly reduced PQ-induced upregulations of inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-6, and IL-8. These results demonstrated that AA had effective protection against PQ-induced ALI.

ASSOCIATION OF STRUCTURAL REPEATS IN THE ALPHA-ACTININ ROD DOMAIN - ALIGNMENT OF INTER-SUBUNIT INTERACTIONS. Fragments of the rod domain of chicken a-actinin, which comprises four spectrin-like repeat sequences, have been prepared by expression in Escherichia coli. Electron microscopy reveals that all products containing three or four complete repeats are rod-like. Self-association of fragments was detected by chemical cross-linking and analytical equilibrium sedimentation. The intact rod domain forms a stable dimer, which does not dissociate measurably in the accessible concentration range. Elimination of either terminal repeat (repeat 1 or repeat 4) greatly diminishes the extent of dimerisation. The fragment comprising repeats 1-3 dimerises appreciably, with an association constant estimated from the sedimentation equilibrium distribution of approximately 5 x 10(5) M(-1). The fragment made up of repeats 2-4 dimerises to a small extent, but also forms aggregates at high concentrations. The results are most easily reconciled with an aligned structure for the rod domain in solution, in which repeat 1 associates with repeat 4 of the partnering chain, and repeat 2 with repeat 3, rather than with a staggered structure, in which one of the terminal repeats does not participate in dimerisation. Possible explanations for the apparent difference observed between the alpha-actinin rod structure in solution and in two-dimensional crystalline arrays are examined. (C) 1995 Academic Press Limited

STRUCTURAL CHANGES OF SEED COATS AND STIMULATION OF IN VITRO GERMINATION OF FULLY MATURE SEEDS OF CYPRIPEDIUM MACRANTHOS SWARTZ (ORCHIDACEAE) BY NaOCl PRETREATMENT. Cypripedium macranthos is a well-known wild orchid in Korea, and is considered to be a symbol for rare plant conservation. Establishment of an efficient method for in vitro germination of seeds is urgently needed for conservation and propagation. In the present works, cellular structural changes of seed coats were investigated after NaOCl pretreatment. NaOCl pretreatment greatly enhanced the frequency of swelling and protocorm formation from zygote embryos of fully mature seeds. Without NaOCl pretreatment, fully mature seeds were not germinated at all. Microscopical analysis revealed that opaque brown color of seed coat was bleached and became transparent after NaOCl treatment. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that NaOCl pretreatment gave rise to perforation of seed coat walls. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation revealed that degradation of cell walls of seed coats was noticed after NaOCl pretreatment. Growth of plantlets was stimulated in the presence of 200 mg l(-1) casein and 200 mg l(-1) activated charcoal (AC). Well-developed plantlets were transferred to greenhouse with 90% survival. Conclusively, stimulation of germination by NaOCl treatment of seeds was due to loss of cell wall integrity by degradation of cell wall materials, which might facilitate the nutrient absorbance into seeds in C. macranthos.

Fatigue and impact load: Experimental investigation on mechanical behavior of high modulus polyethylene yarns. Synthetic ropes have been used as alternatives for wire ropes owing to their low specific weight and excellent mechanical characteristics. They are essential for offshore mooring in deep water because, at these depths, the weight of steel cables and chains would exceed the forces supported by the platform structure. In addition, they are used in several applications, such as robotics, mountain climbing, fire rescue and lifting loads, sternum closure after medical surgery. They are even used as artificial muscles and active endoscopes because of their high flexibility. These applications are typically characterized by the presence of dynamic loads. Thus, this study aims to experimentally investigate the mechanical behavior of high-modulus polyethylene yarns, supplied by three different manufacturers. The yarns were analyzed after being subjected to impact load and after experiencing fatigue. The interaction between impact load and fatigue was also studied. First, the force, strain, and energy absorbed after the impact load were verified. Subsequently, the influence of the impact load on the fatigue life of the materials was analyzed. Finally, thermal analysis (DSC and TGA) and chemical analysis (FTIR, DRX, and EDS) were performed to compare the materials. It was observed that the mechanical and thermal behaviors of the three materials differed, and there was a reduction in fatigue life, which depended on the impact load due to yarn degradation. Finally, it is concluded that properties such as tensile strength should not be used as the sole parameter for dimensioning polymeric materials, because they exhibit different material properties in several tests despite possessing similar tensile strength.

A comparative study on the dietary ecological footprint in contemporary China. Food consumption is increasingly impacting environmental sustainability. Building on the latest data of China Statis-tical Yearbook 2015-2020, this study quantified the dietary ecological footprint per capita (EFP), including animal -based and plant-based EFP, across seven provinces (representing seven regions) and between urban and rural areas of China. We further analyzed the possible correlated factors with the EFP and the strength of these correlations. The results showed that the EFP in southern areas was generally higher than that in northern areas, and the EFP in urban areas was higher than that in rural areas. The EFP was significantly correlated with per capita disposable income (PCDI), food consumption (FC) quantity, urban/rural status, southern/northern areas, and provinces. Moreover, we found geographical locations (i.e., southern/northern areas and provinces) contributed more to the total and animal-based EFP than economic conditions (i.e., urban/rural status and PCDI). Although pork price dramatically influenced the dietary patterns, it did not affect the total or animal-based EFP. These findings provide novel insights for understanding the mechanisms of the relationship between food consumption and environmental sustainability in China. The conclusions are helpful in predicting the future environmental impacts of diets in other countries with similar national conditions.

CARRIER DETECTION AND PRENATAL-DIAGNOSIS OF HEMOGLOBINOPATHIES IN ONTARIO. The province of Ontario has a total population of approximately 10 million people, with approximately 20% being of African, Southeast Asian, East Indian, Mediterranean, or Middle Eastern ancestry in whom the gene frequency for hemoglobinopathies is relatively high. In 1989, the Ontario Ministry of Health funded the establishment of the Provincial Hemoglobinopathy DNA Diagnostic Laboratory located at the McMaster University Medical Centre in Hamilton, Ontario. The Laboratory provides DNA analysis to identify the globin gene mutations in carriers and affected individuals, and performs prenatal diagnosis for severe hemoglobinopathies. Annually, more than 400 patient samples are referred to the Laboratory for investigation, of which 25-35 are fetal samples from pregnancies at risk for either homozygous alpha-thalassemia, beta-thalassemia major, or sickling disorders. We have detected more than 70 different globin gene mutations, including several mutations not previously reported in the literature. Here we present examples of the approaches used to detect globin gene mutations in a heterogeneous ''at risk'' population such as in Ontario, and discuss the impact of this service on patient care, genetic counselling, and the incidence of severe hemoglobinopathies in Ontario.

Beyond the financial logic: Realizing valuable outcomes in public-private partnerships in Flanders and Ontario. The value of public-private partnerships has typically been sought in financial and budgetary benefits. In both research and practice, important aspects of nonfinancial value have remained under the radar. This article discusses four \\'white raven'' public-private partnerships that have shown rather atypical results in terms of their physical outcomes-design, contextual fit, and multifunctionality. We argue that despite the increasing role of private sector actors, public sector clients fulfill a key role in delivering value. A strong sense of ambition and vision, in combination with a solid coordination on the part of the client, helps deliver projects that go beyond mere financial perks and deliver true social value. These elements have largely been overlooked in previous research, which has often focused on financial, legal, political, and managerial capacities of government actors.

Acute bilateral ureteral obstruction secondary to guaifenesin toxicity. Several medications or their metabolites have been associated with urolithiasis, although overall they remain an infrequent cause of urolithiasis. Guaifenesin stones were originally reported as complexed with ephedrine, and subsequent reports have demonstrated pure guaifenesin stones, occurring after long term abuse. We report a case of a 23-year-old male who ingested a large, one time dose of guaifenesin, resulting in acute bilateral ureteral obstruction, which, to our knowledge, is the first such reported case in the literature.

beta-delayed neutron and gamma-ray spectroscopy of C-17 utilizing spin-polarized B-17. Excited states in C-17 were investigated through the measurement of beta-delayed neutrons and gamma rays emitted in the beta decay of B-17. In the measurement, three negative-parity states and two inconclusive states were identified in C-17 above the neutron threshold energy, and seven gamma lines were identified in a beta-delayed multiple neutron emission of the B-17 beta decay. From these transitions, the beta-decay scheme of B-17 was determined. In particular, a de-excitation 1766-keV gamma line from the first excited state of C-16 was observed in coincidence with the emitted beta-delayed neutrons, and this changes the previously reported beta-decay scheme of B-17 and level structure of C-17. In the present work, the beta-NMR technique is combined with the beta-delayed particle measurements using a fragmentation-induced spin-polarized B-17 beam. This new scheme allows us to determine the spin parity of beta-decay feeding excited states based on the difference in the discrete beta-decay asymmetry parameters, provided the states are connected through the Gamow-Teller transition. In this work, I-pi = 1/2(-), 3/2(-), and (5/2(-)) are assigned to the observed states at E-x = 2.71(2), 3.93(2), and 4.05(2) MeV in C-17, respectively. DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevC.87.034316

Current Status of Thalassemia in Lao People's Democratic Republic. Thalassemia is a major public health and economical burden in Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). This study is aiming to elaborate the current situation of Thalassemia in Laos. alpha- and beta-thalassemia (alpha- and beta-thal) includes the common Hb S (HBB: c.20A>T) and hemoglobins (Hbs) such as Hb Constant Spring (Hb CS or HBA2: c.427T>C) and Hb E (HBB: c.79G>A) that are prevalent in the country. Overall, the prevalence of alpha-thal in Lao PDR is 26.8%. There was high prevalence of homozygous (12.8%) and heterozygous (39.7%) Hb E among migrant workers from Lao PDR who crossed the border to work in Thailand. Iron chelation, blood transfusion, prenatal screening and diagnosis, comprehensive treatment are still the major problems. Splenectomy is still performed. A national registry has still not been established. This is a national economic burden for the country. Thalassemia prevention and control strategy should be established and advocated by the government in order to reduce morbidity and premature mortality.

A heteropolynuclear R-2[S2WS2Re(O)(Cl)S2WS2] (R = PPh4 and Et4N) complex. The first example of a tetrathiometalate ligand co-ordinated to an oxo-metal core. A solution of [ReOCl3(PPh3)(2)] in benzene reacts with solid (NH4)(2)WS4, in the presence of traces of H2O, to give [ReOCl(WS4)(2)](2-), isolated as its PPh4 (1) and NEt4 (2) salts. Both (1) and (2) exhibit nu(Re=O) at ca. 930, nu(Re-Cl) at ca. 330 nu(W=S)(t) at ca. 495 and nu(W-S-Re) bridging vibration at ca. 460 cm(-1). The FAB mass spectrum of (1) shows a peak for [ReO(WS4)(2)](+) (m/z = 826 amu) in the positive mode and that for {PPh4[ReOCl(WS4)]}(-) (m/z = 889 amu) in the negative mode, confirming the suggested composition. This is the second example of a d(2) metal ion forming a tetrathiometalate complex and also the first example of an oxometal ion (excepting those of W and Mo) forming a molecular complex with tetrathio- tungstate or -molybdate ligands.

Decentralized Cooperative Lane-Changing Decision-Making for Connected Autonomous Vehicles. In this paper, we proposed a decentralized cooperative lane-changing decision-making framework for connected autonomous vehicles, which is composed of three modules, i.e., state prediction, candidate decision generation, and coordination. In other words, each connected autonomous vehicle makes cooperative lane-changing decision independently. In the state prediction module, we employed existing cooperative car-following models to predict the vehicles' future state. In the candidate decision generation module, we proposed incentive based model to generate a candidate decision. In the candidate decision coordination module, we proposed an algorithm to avoid candidate lane-changing decision that may lead to a vehicle collision or traffic deterioration to be final decision. Moreover, the effects of decentralized cooperative lane-changing decision-making framework on traffic stability, efficiency, homogeneity, and safety are investigated in a numerical simulation experiment. Some stability, efficiency, homogeneity, and safety indicators are evaluated and show the high potential of our proposed framework in traffic dynamics.

Alcohol use disorder among adolescents: Impact of paternal alcoholism on drinking behavior, drinking motivation, and consequences. This study examined the impact of an Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in biological fathers on drinking history, context, motivation, and consequences in male and female adolescents dichotomized according to the presence or absence of an AUD. Main effects for paternal history of an AUD were not found on any variable. Significant interactions were observed between father-son diagnostic status with respect to age of first alcohol use (p < 0.001) and peer relationships (p < 0.001). No significant interactions were observed between father-daughter diagnostic status. As expected, adolescents with AUD differed from adolescents without AUD on numerous variables pertaining to drinking behavior, history, and consequences. These findings indicate that there is no strong or pervasive effect of paternal AUD on adolescent offspring's AUD characteristics.

Novel phosphorescent cationic iridium(III) complexes with o-carboranylation on the ancillary N boolean AND N ligand. A novel series of heteroleptic iridium complexes with 2-phenyl-pyridine as a main ligand and carborane- functionalized 2,2'-bipyridine as an ancillary ligand were synthesized, and characterized as [Ir(ppy) 2(By)] PF6 (where ppy is 2-phenyl-pyridine, By is 5-(2-R-Cb)-2,2'-bipyridine, R = H (2a), CH3 (2b), Ph (2c), iPr (2d) and iBu (2e), or By is 4-(2-R-Cb)-2,2'-bipyridine while R = H (3a), CH3 (3b), Ph (3c), iPr (3d) and iBu (3e), Cb = o-carboran-1-yl). The R groups and the substitution sites of carborane on the pyridine ring have caused differences in the emission properties of these complexes. In addition, the quantum efficiency of [Ir(ppy) 2(By)] PF6 complexes has been tuned as well through the introduction of various 2-R-substituted o-carboranes into the ancillary ligand 2,2'-bipyridine, no matter in the solid state (from 0.12 to 0.25) or in solution (from 0.04 to 0.25). The emission color was tuned from yellow to red by the o-carboranyl unit because of its inductive effect. Density functional theory (DFT) and time dependent DFT (TD-DFT) calculations have been applied to investigate excitedstate electronic structures of the newly synthesized complexes, which are consistent with the observed red-shift emissions.

Calculation of the surface characteristics and pressures of InAs quantum dots in a GaAs matrix. A theoretical model for calculating the energy characteristics of surfaces of InAs quantum dots in a GaAs(100) matrix is described. The model is based on notions of nonequilibrium thermodynamics and surface physics. The results of calculating the magnitudes of the surface energy and adhesion physical quantities as well as pressures in the vicinity of the edges of InAs quantum dots in a GaAs(100) matrix are presented. The causes of bending of the profile of the lower part of the quantum dot are presented using the Young relationship. These results can be used to asses the stress-relaxation mechanisms during the course of the selforganization of InAs quantum dots in a GaAs(100) matrix.

Role of Vitamin D in Athletes and Their Performance: Current Concepts and New Trends. We are currently experiencing a vitamin D (VITD) deficiency pandemic across the world. Athletes have the same predisposition to low levels of vitamin D, the majority of its concentrations being below 20 ng/mL in a wide range of sports, especially in the winter months. Vitamin D is important in bone health, but recent research also points out its essential role in extraskeletal functions, including skeletal muscle growth, immune and cardiopulmonary functions and inflammatory modulation, which influence athletic performance. Vitamin D can also interact with extraskeletal tissues to modulate injury recovery and also influence the risk of infection. The data presented in this paper has triggered investigations in relation to the importance of maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D and to the possible positive influence supplementation has on immune and musculoskeletal functions in athletes, benefiting their performance and preventing future injuries. The objective of this review is to describe the latest research conducted on the epidemiology of vitamin D deficiency and its effects on sports performance and musculoskeletal health.

Enantiodifferentiating [4+4] photocyclodimerization of 2-anthracenecarboxylate mediated by a self-assembled iron tetrahedral coordination cage. Photochirogenesis through supramolecular assembly provides an intriguing approach to the highly challenging research field of chiral photochemistry. In the present paper, an enantiopure coordination self-assembly cage (cage T) has been employed for mediating the enantiodifferentiating [4+4] photocyclodimerization of 2-anthracenecarboxylate (AC) in aqueous medium. The complexing behavior of AC with the cage T has been investigated by UV-vis, circular dichroism and NMR spectral studies. It was found that in aqueous solution, cage T could form both 1:1 and 1:2 host-guest complexes with AC. Photocyclodimerization of AC mediated by cage T were studied, at different temperatures and different host/guest ratios. The anti-HT photodimer dominate the photocyclodimerization of AC with cage T. In the presence of an enantiopure cage T, the chiral syn-HT and anti-HH photodimers were produced in moderate enantioselectivity. The enantiodifferentiating mechanism of this supramolecular photochirogenesis system and the effects of external factors are discussed. (C) 2016 Published by Elsevier B.V.

Investigation of flame characteristics of hydrogen jet issuing into a hot vitiated nitrogen/argon/carbon dioxide coflow. Fundamental characteristics of hydrogen flame in diluted atmosphere may have important guiding value for controlling the operation of argon-circulated hydrogen engines. In this paper, the impact of thermal-atmosphere (T >= 940 K, N-2/O-2, Ar/O-2 and CO2/O-2) on the flame characteristics of hydrogen jet were investigated experimentally and numerically based on a controllable active thermal-atmosphere burner. The effects of different diluents on flame liftoff height and luminosity were quantitatively analyzed and the different luminosity of the hydrogen jet flame under different dilution gas atmosphere was explained with the chemical reaction kinetics. Different critical temperatures exist in different atmospheres. The flame luminosity is in the increasing order of CO2/O-2-, Ar/O-2- and N-2/O-2-atmosphere. The analysis speculates that CO2* is generated in the flame of CO2/O-2-atmosphere. The difference in axial velocity and mixture fraction under different dilution gas atmospheres is mainly influenced by the thermal atmosphere and the physical properties of the dilution gas, which also has a great influence on the jet before the autoignition occurs. (C) 2019 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Brunner's technique for open wedge resection. The interaction of different risk factors exposes the feet of diabetics to a very high risk of infection. Therapeutic measures that are often implemented too late or are inappropriate result in major amputation. A retrospective analysis was performed to assess whether surgical reconstruction with an open wedge resection could also be achieved in cases of serious infections.Brunner's technique for open wedge resection is adequately radical to repair deep forefoot defects and simultaneously appropriate to avoid major amputation. The afflicted patients thus retain the highest measure of mobility and quality of life.None of the patients with an average age of 45 years experienced a recurrent ulcer or infection during the average follow-up period of 19 months. Eight patients were fitted with made-to-measure orthopedic shoes while modified standard shoes sufficed for two patients.An open wedge resection was performed between 1996 and 2001 on ten patients who had been suffering from diabetes mellitus for an average of 14 years. After V-shaped excision of necrotic tissue and metatarsal osteotomy close to the base, the wound was treated with wet compresses. The patients were mobilized with interim shoes or orthotics.

Serological evidence for historical and present-day exposure of North American bison to Mycoplasma bovis. BackgroundMycoplasma bovis causes mastitis, otitis, pneumonia and arthritis in cattle and is a major contributor to bovine respiratory disease complex. Around the year 2000, it emerged as a significant threat to the health of North American bison. Whether healthy bison are carriers of M. bovis and when they were first exposed is not known. To investigate these questions we used a commercially available ELISA that detects antibodies to M. bovis to test 3295 sera collected from 1984 through 2019 from bison in the United States and Canada.ResultsWe identified moderately to strongly seropositive bison from as long ago as the late 1980s. Average seroprevalence over the past 36years is similar in the United States and Canada, but country-specific differences are evident when data are sorted by the era of collection. Seroprevalence in the United States during the pre-disease era (1999 and prior) was significantly higher than in Canada, but was significantly lower than in Canada during the years 2000-2019. Considering individual countries, seroprevalence in the United States since the year 2000 dropped significantly as compared to the years 1985-1999. In Canada the trend is reversed, with seroprevalence increasing significantly since the year 2000. ELISA scores for sera collected from free-ranging bison do not differ significantly from scores for sera from more intensively managed animals, regardless of the era in which they were collected. However, seroprevalence among intensively raised Canadian bison has nearly doubled since the year 2000 and average ELISA scores rose significantly.ConclusionsOur data provide the first evidence that North American bison were exposed to M. bovis many years prior to the emergence of M. bovis-related disease. Patterns of exposure inferred from these results differ in the United States and Canada, depending on the era under consideration. Our data further suggest that M. bovis may colonize healthy bison at a level sufficient to trigger antibody responses but without causing overt disease. These findings provide novel insights as to the history of M. bovis in bison and will be of value in formulating strategies to minimize the impact of mycoplasmosis on bison health and production.

Understanding the Role of Arginine as an Eluent in Affinity Chromatography via Molecular Computations. Subatantial loss in yield can occur during the purification of antibodies, up to nearly half of the product. The first and the most critical step in the purification process is affinity chromatography, in which a ligand (protein A) is used to bind the antibody to a column, and eluents are then used to elute the bound antibodies. Arginine and citrate salt are two commonly used eluents for elution of antibodies. The role of eluents in protein A affinity chromatography in general, and the role of arginine and citrate in particular, are not well understood. Arginine and citrate both work well at low pH, but at high pH, arginine improves the recovery of antibodies much better than citrate, which gives negligible recovery. Milder elution conditions are desired because, at low pH, much product is lost due to aggregation. Via molecular computations, we gained insight into the mechanism by which arginine promotes the elution of antibodies. We show that arginine facilitates the dissociation of the antibody protein A complex and inhibits the aggregation of eluted antibodies, whereas citrate works in an opposite manner. These observations explain the low recovery of antibodies in the presence of citrate and improved performance in the presence of arginine. These results also shed light on the nature of molecular interactions between cosolutes and protein-protein binding sites that weaken or strengthen the binding.