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This study evaluated handgrip strength (HGS), circulating homocysteine levels and related factors in postmenopausal women. This study is a sub-analysis of a prospective cohort of 303 postmenopausal women aged 62.7 ± 6.9 years who had HGS measures with a digital dynamometer as the primary outcome, and plasma homocysteine and creatinine levels and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) measures as the secondary outcomes. The average HGS was 22.5 ± 4.0 kg, 29.4% of women had dynapenia (HGS < 20 kg), adiposity was 40.3 ± 5.4% and 9.57% of women had hyperhomocysteinemia (homocysteine >15 μmol/l). There were no differences between tertiles of homocysteine and HGS (p = 0.641). Plasma homocysteine levels were unrelated to HGS (r = −0.06) and correlated with age (r = 0.17), GFR (r = −0.28) and creatinine (r = 0.23). Hyperhomocysteinemia was not associated with HGS (odds ratio [OR] = 0.98 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.89; 1.08]) or dynapenia (OR = 1.10 [95% CI: 0.45; 2.47]). The risk of presenting low HGS were not significantly associated with homocysteine (OR = −0.08 [95% CI: −0.21; 0.06]) and were associated with age (OR = −0.23 [95% CI: −0.29; −0.17]), adiposity (OR = −6.52 [95% CI: −9.53; −3.50]) and creatinine (OR = 6.22 [95% CI: 2.48; 9.97]). HGS and dynapenia were unrelated to hyperhomocysteinemia. Age, GFR and creatinine were significantly associated with plasma homocysteine levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed to evaluate the relationship between homocysteine (Hcy) levels and bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women. The present, cross-sectional study included 760 postmenopausal women. The following variables were recorded: age, age at menopause, body mass index (BMI), BMD (measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry [DXA] scanning and expressed as lumbar, femoral neck and total hip T-scores), smoking status, biochemical parameters (Hcy, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D and parathormone levels) and vitamin D supplementation. The mean age of the sample population was 56.4 ± 5.77 years and the mean age at menopause was 49.9 ± 3.62 years. The mean BMI was 25.2 ± 4.49 kg/m2. In the current study, a comparison of the subjects with osteoporosis, osteopenia and normal BMD revealed that the subjects in the low BMD group were significantly older (p < 0.001), had a lower age at menopause (p < 0.001) and had lower BMI (p < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference among the groups with regard to the plasma levels of Hcy (p = 0.946). The levels of Hcy were positively correlated to the creatinine levels (r = 0.21). The present study did not observe any significant correlations between the Hcy levels and other parameters. In the present study, 15.3% of the subjects had hyperhomocysteinemia and 62.11% had low BMD. The current results obtained from a group of postmenopausal women suggest that the plasma levels of Hcy are not related to BMD in the lumbar spine (L1–L4), femoral neck and total hip. In the current study, age, age at menopause and low BMI were observed to be associated with low BMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon fibre reinforced polymer/titanium stacks (CFRP/Ti6Al4V) are employed in aeronautics due to their excellent weight-to-strength ratio and corrosion properties. However, these same material properties present challenges for hole making which cannot be solved using conventional water-based metalworking fluids (MWFs), as they cause degradation of the composite. Moreover, environmental and health concerns require exploration of alternative cooling/lubrication solutions. In this study, a controlled mixture of liquid carbon dioxide (LCO 2) and minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) was supplied through the drilling tool. The effect of varying LCO 2 and MQL flow rates was evaluated on cutting forces, temperatures, and several hole quality outputs. The optimal flow rates were then determined through multi-objective optimisation. The results show that the cooling/lubrication flow rate greatly affects the measured outputs, and that supplying LCO 2 + MQL with optimised flow rates helps achieve superior quality holes in CFRP, Ti6Al4V and CFRP/Ti6Al4V stacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an inversion methodology where acoustic observations of infrasound waves are used to update an atmospheric model. This paper sought a flexible parameterization that permits to incorporate physical and numerical constraints without the need to reformulate the inversion. On the other hand, the optimization conveys an explicit search over the solution space, making the solver computationally expensive. Nevertheless, through a parallel implementation and the use of tight constraints, this study demonstrates that the methodology is computationally tractable. Constraints to the solution space are derived from the spread (variance) of ERA5 ensemble reanalysis members, which summarize the best current knowledge of the atmosphere from assimilated measurements and physical models. Similarly, the initial model temperature and winds for the inversion are chosen to be the average of these parameters in the ensemble members. The performance of the inversion is demonstrated with the application to infrasound observations from an explosion generated by the destruction of ammunition at Hukkakero, Finland. The acoustic signals are recorded at an array station located at 178 km range, which is within the classical shadow zone distance. The observed returns are assumed to come from stratospheric reflections. Thus, the reflection altitude is also an inverted parameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A detailed analysis of the influence of thermal nonequilibrium on transport in semiconductors was carried out. Special attention was paid to the effect of this nonequilibrium on recombination and the space charge. In particular, recombination has the same mathematical expression for band-to-band and Shockley–Read–Hall transitions; the only difference between the expressions of these recombination mechanisms is a different lifetime. For both types of recombination, the space charge and homogeneity in space nonequilibrium temperature do not affect charge transport, but it modifies, of course, the electron and hole concentrations in nonequilibrium conditions. The lifetime can be introduced only for band-to-band recombination under the quasineutrality condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive analysis of the unsteady flow dynamics past the 30P30N three-element high lift wing is performed by means of large eddy simulations at different angles of attack (α = 5°, 9°, and 23°) and at a Reynolds number of R e c = 750 000 (based on the nested chord). Results are compared with experimental and numerical investigations, showing a quantitatively good agreement and, thus, proving the reliability and accuracy of the present simulations. Within the slat and main coves, large recirculation bubbles are bounded by shear layers, where the onset of turbulence is triggered by Kelvin–Helmholtz instabilities. In the energy spectrum of the velocity fluctuations, the footprint of these instabilities is detected as a broadband peak; its frequency being moved toward lower values as the angle of attack increases. Kelvin–Helmholtz vortices roll-up and break down into small scales that eventually impinge into the slat and main coves lower surfaces. The slat impingement shows to be more prominent, and hence, larger velocity and pressure fluctuations are observed. The impingement strength diminishes with the angle of attack in both coves, while higher fluctuations are originated on the slat and main respective suction sides, leading to larger boundary layers. This is associated with the displacement of the stagnation point with the angle of attack. Another salient feature observed is the laminar-to-turbulent flow transition in the main and flap leading edges although the average location of this transition seems to not be affected by the angle of attack. Tollmien–Schlichting instabilities precede this transition, with the disturbances amplified by the inviscid mode at low angles of attack, while at α = 23 ° , the local Reynolds number on the main suction side is incremented and the viscous mode becomes important. The analysis shows that the turbulent wake formed at the trailing edge of all elements dominates the dynamics downstream. This is especially true at the higher angle of attack, where a large region of velocity deficit above the flap is observed, thus indicating the onset of stall conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have characterized the optical modes present in a two-dimensional photonic crystal single defect cavity fabricated in an InP/In[sub 0.53]3Ga[sub 0.47]As/InP double heterostructure thin film on a glass slide. The cavity resonance was tuned to different frequencies in the 1.55 µm spectral region. Radiation losses and material absorption influence the measured value of cavity quality factor Q. We separated these two loss mechanisms by performing a curve fit of the loss rate 1/Q versus the wavelength-dependent absorption coefficient of In[sub 0.53]Ga[sub 0.47]As. By extrapolating this curve to zero absorption, the radiation loss rate 1/Q[sub rad] is obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sitosterolemia is a rare autosomal recessive disease that lead to an increase in the intestinal absorption and decreased biliary excretion plant sterols. It is caused by mutations in ABCG5 and ABCG8 genes, encoring sterolin‐1 and sterolin‐2 protein. The main clinical manifestations are xanthomas, premature atherosclerosis, arthralgia and, of note, hematological alterations. As in many other systemic diseases, hematological manifestations may be the only notable finding, for this reason we want to highlight the importance of multidisciplinary work and raise awareness of this rare disease that can lead to serious consequences if not treated prematurely. Here we present a case of this disease as well as its entire diagnostic process developed from a simple analytical alteration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is among the most common fungal diseases affecting wheat, resulting in decreased yield, low-density kernels, and production of the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol, a compound toxic to humans and livestock. Human visual analysis of representative wheat samples has been the traditional method for FHB assessment in both official inspection and plant breeding operations. While not requiring specialized equipment, visual analysis is dependent on a trained and consistent workforce, such that in the absence of these aspects, biases may arise among inspectors and evaluation dates. This research was intended to avoid such pitfalls by using longer wavelength radiation than the visible using hyperspectral imaging (HSI) on individual kernels. Linear discriminant analysis models to differentiate between sound and scab-damaged kernels were developed based on mean of reflectance values of the interior pixels of each kernel at four wavelengths (1100, 1197, 1308, and 1394 nm). Other input variables were examined, including kernel morphological properties and histogram features from the pixel responses of selected wavelengths of each kernel. The results indicate the strong potential of HSI in estimating fusarium damage. However, improvement in aligning this procedure to visual analysis is hampered by the inherent level of subjectivity in visual analysis. • Near-infrared hyperspectral imaging can identify fusarium-damaged wheat kernels. • Spectral features are more useful than morphological ones at finding kernel damage. • Reflectances at as few as 3–4 wavelengths are sufficient to identify fusarium damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• DNS and LES of the flow and heat transfer past a sphere are performed. • Local and average Nusselt number are determined. • Viscous and thermal boundary layer are analysed. • Wake behaviour and its characteristics are studied for moderate Reynolds numbers. Direct numerical simulation and large-eddy simulation have been performed for a heated sphere at Reynolds numbers of R e = 1000 and R e = 10 4 , respectively. The Prandtl number for both simulations has been P r = 0.7. Measurements of the local and average Nusselt number are performed and compared with literature available experimental results. Average and front stagnation point Nusselt numbers increase with the Reynolds number, while the minimum value moves towards the sphere apex as the flow enters the sub-critical regime. Differences in both viscous and thermal boundary layers are observed, while the shape factor at Reynolds number R e = 10 4 behaves similarly to that observed in circular cylinders at comparable Reynolds numbers. It is shown that as the Reynolds number increases, the increase in turbulent kinetic energy promotes the entrainment of irrotational flow thus enhancing the temperature mixing in the zone. The near wake, between 5 ≤ x / D ≤ 15, spreads at a faster rate at R e = 1000 with a slope close to x / D 1/2, while at R e = 10 4 it follows a trend close to x / D 1/3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Radiotherapy of cancer has been traditionally considered as a local therapy without noticeable effects outside the irradiated fields. However, ionizing radiation exerts multiple biological effects on both malignant and stromal cells that account for a complex spectrum of mechanisms beyond simple termination of cancer cells. In the era of immunotherapy, interest in radiation-induced inflammation and cell death has considerably risen, since these mechanisms lead to profound changes in the systemic immune response against cancer antigens. Immunotherapies such as immunomodulatory monoclonal antibodies (anti-PD-1, anti-CTLA-4, anti-CD137, anti-OX40, anti-CD40, anti-TGFβ), TLR-agonists, and adoptive T-cell therapy have been synergistically combined with radiotherapy in mouse models. Importantly, radiation and immunotherapy combinations do not only act against the irradiated tumor but also against distant non-irradiated metastases (abscopal effects). A series of clinical trials are exploring the beneficial effects of radioimmunotherapy combinations. The concepts of crosspriming of tumor neoantigens and immunogenic cell death are key elements underlying this combination efficacy. Proinflamatory changes in the vasculature of the irradiated lesions and in the cellular composition of the leukocyte infiltrates in the tumor microenvironment contribute to raise or dampen cancer immunogenicity. It should be stressed that not all effects of radiotherapy favor antitumor immunity as there are counterbalancing mechanisms such as TGFβ, and VEGFs that inhibit the efficacy of the antitumor immune response, hence offering additional therapeutic targets to suppress. All in all, radiotherapy and immunotherapy are compatible and often synergistic approaches against cancer that jointly target irradiated and non-irradiated malignant lesions in the same patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analysis has shown that the location of Ag-acceptor levels in ZnO is still unclear. To identify Ag related defects the emission, structure and aging process have been studied in the silver doped ZnO nanocrystalline films obtained by the ultrasonic spray pyrolysis with different Ag concentrations within of 1–4 at%. It is revealed that at low Ag doping (1–2 at%) the ZnO crystal structure improves, but the higher (3–4 at%) Ag content leads to crystal lattice disordering. The bright emission related to Ag doping with PL peaks at 2.68 and 2.97 eV at 10 K have been detected in PL spectra of ZnO:Ag films at 2–3 at% Ag. At higher Ag content (≥ 3 at%) the PL intensity of majority PL bands falls down together with the formation of metallic Ag inclusions in ZnO:Ag films. At aging ZnO:Ag films the intensities of PL bands (2.68 and 2.97 eV) fall down, but the intensity of orange PL band increases. The study of PL temperature dependences permits to analyze the nature of emitting defects responsible for the blue (2.68 and 2.97 eV), green and orange PL bands. The transformation of emitting defects at aging has been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a continuation of our previous study, in this work, we investigated the effects of propanol and butanol treatments and subsequent irradiation with microwave on commercial vermiculites. No expansibility was observed after propanol or butanol treatments (k = 1.0). Samples treated with propanol or butanol and subsequently irradiated with microwaves expanded in a similar manner as they did with methanol and ethanol. The results of X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TG and DTA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and infrared spectroscopy indicated structural changes as: 1) The appearance of extra interstratified phases during the transformation from 2- to 1-WLHS (Water Layer Hydration States). 2) The improvement of the crystallinity and order of the most phases, which are the same phases of the untreated vermiculites or even some more, due to migration of potassium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct numerical simulations of the flow and forced convective heat transfer around a sphere at Reynolds numbers between R e = 500 and R e = 1000 are performed. We investigate the effects of the Prandtl number (P r) on the forced convective heat transfer from a sphere for various fluids having P r = 0. 01 , 0. 1 , 0. 7. At the larger Prandtl number, the convective transport due to the vortex shedding process dominates over the diffusive transport. As the Prandtl number decreases, diffusive effects become important. Moreover, the thermal boundary layer increases with decrements of the Prandtl number, which results in a reduction in the local and mean non-dimensional heat transfer coefficient. It is seen that at R e = 500 and R e = 750 , the vortex shedding process is asymmetric, which results not only in a non-zero lift coefficient, but in an asymmetric temperature field in the wake of the sphere at P r ≥ 0. 1. The dual asymmetry in the flow and the convective heat transfer is smooth out when the Prandtl number reaches P r = 0. 01 as the heat diffusion dominates and asymmetries in the vortex formation zone are no longer relevant in the heat transport. The descend in Prandtl number also produces an attenuation of the temperature fluctuations and thereby, in the turbulent heat transfer. As a direct consequence, two factors emerge at P r = 0. 01 : (1) a lower decay ratio of the temperature in the wake centreline, and (2) a larger wake spread compared to higher Prandtl numbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine the external validity of the new Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF) competing‐risks model for prediction in midgestation of small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) neonates. Methods: This was a single‐center prospective cohort study of 25 484 women with a singleton pregnancy undergoing routine ultrasound examination at 19 + 0 to 23 + 6 weeks' gestation. The FMF competing‐risks model for the prediction of SGA combining maternal factors and midgestation estimated fetal weight by ultrasound scan (EFW) and uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA‐PI) was used to calculate risks for different cut‐offs of birth‐weight percentile and gestational age at delivery. The predictive performance was evaluated in terms of discrimination and calibration. Results: The validation cohort was significantly different in composition compared with the FMF cohort in which the model was developed. In the validation cohort, at a 10% false‐positive rate (FPR), maternal factors, EFW and UtA‐PI yielded detection rates of 69.6%, 38.7% and 31.7% for SGA < 10th percentile with delivery at < 32, < 37 and ≥ 37 weeks' gestation, respectively. The respective values for SGA < 3rd percentile were 75.7%, 48.2% and 38.1%. Detection rates in the validation cohort were similar to those reported in the FMF study for SGA with delivery at < 32 weeks but lower for SGA with delivery at < 37 and ≥ 37 weeks. Predictive performance in the validation cohort was similar to that reported in a subgroup of the FMF cohort consisting of nulliparous and Caucasian women. Detection rates in the validation cohort at a 15% FPR were 77.4%, 50.0% and 41.5% for SGA < 10th percentile with delivery at < 32, < 37 and ≥ 37 weeks, respectively, which were similar to the respective values reported in the FMF study at a 10% FPR. The model had satisfactory calibration. Conclusion: The new competing‐risks model for midgestation prediction of SGA developed by the FMF performs well in a large independent Spanish population. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significant research efforts are being devoted to the development of distributed electricity networks that aim to facilitate the gradual integration of manageable loads and distributed energy resources. These environments are conceived as self-managed, enclosed areas of the distribution network that integrates many of the technologies and information systems that will be part of the future Smart Grid. Both the new scheme and devices are expected to offer users presence in the grid operation so that their preferences and interests are relevant. To this end, the management system has been frequently proposed in form of an electronic market in which producers and consumers exchange energy blocks so that the consumption and production are continuously balanced. As the state of the art reflects, intelligent agents are an suitable technology for building energy management systems in which users participate actively in an intelligent and autonomous manner. This document presents a review of the most relevant works that tackle the safe and effective management of distributed electricity networks through autonomous software agents that negotiate on behalf of customers. This document presents a discussion of the suitability of the most relevant works, highlighting those that are most promising, and identifying the issues that are still necessary to reinforce in future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present work reports the alcohol treatment and subsequent irradiation with microwave of commercial vermiculites. Alcohol treatment resulted in slight delamination of the layers and the color of the samples changed into brilliant golden and no expansibility was observed (k ≤ 1.3). Samples treated with alcohol and subsequently irradiated with microwaves expanded; the greater expansibility (k = 8 for 1 h) was provided by the most complex sample and treated with methanol. The structural changes were studied by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TG and DTA), infrared spectroscopy and carbon analysis. The results of these analysis indicated dehydration-hydration and order–disorder which would be related to the entry of alcohol into the vermiculites and the loss of water content. The changes occurred in a similar way to the temperature and vacuum, and were less pronounced for the purest vermiculite. The crystallite size and lattice strain values which reflect changes in crystallinity and structural order varied slightly regardless of treatment and time. Alcohol treatment and subsequent microwave irradiation may be the procedure for obtaining purest vermiculite from less pure sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As physical exercise has been shown to negatively affect sperm morphology, this study was undertaken to assess the effect of a 3-min forced swimming protocol during 50 days, with and without administration of antioxidants [ N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and trans-resveratrol], on sperm morphology in CD-1 mice. Forty-four 13-week-old CD-1 mice were randomly allocated to four different groups: mice not submitted to exercise, control group ( CG), mice submitted to swimming without administration of antioxidants ( EX), mice submitted to swimming that received trans-resveratrol supplementation [exercise group ( EX)+Resv] and mice submitted to swimming exercise that received NAC supplementation ( EX+ NAC). The EX showed 30.5% of spermatozoa with normal morphology, showing significant differences with regard to the CG, which showed 58.5%. The groups receiving antioxidant supplements showed significantly higher percentages of spermatozoa with normal morphology in comparison with the EX group ( EX+Resv: 64.1%, EX+ NAC: 48.2%). The imposed model of forced swimming caused alterations in sperm morphology. The antioxidants employed seem to be suitable antioxidants for avoiding exercise-associated sperm morphology anomalies in prolonged forced swimming exercise. Trans-resveratrol has proven to be more efficient for this purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In solutions based on simultaneous auctions, participants are enabled to conduct and clear their own auctions, so that many auctions can be running at the same time. This configuration is increasingly being proposed for the installation of distributed management systems based on economic criteria in contexts such as the Smart Grid, computational grids and the cloud. In particular, these solutions are commonly complemented by the presence of software agents which automate the users’ participation in an intelligent manner. This work focuses on the effect that the distribution of the bidders’ participation actually has on the effectiveness of parallel auctions as management system. Firstly, the problem is introduced, showing that, in practice, bidders have incentives to prefer some auctions over others, thus tending to concentrate their participation in a limited subset of auctions. Also, as part of the theoretical formulation, with the aim of preserving the essence of markets and keeping competition active, it establishes a set of players’ essential rights that any solution to the problem should preserve. The text then continues with the design and implementation of a regulatory mechanism that uniformly distributes buyers’ participation among the available auctions. Realistic experiments are provided in order to demonstrate both the negative effects that buyers’ concentration actually causes, and the effectiveness of the new regulatory mechanism, which manages to strengthen parallel auctions as a distributed management system. Likewise, it is proven that the solution is scalable, reactive and suitable for large distributed environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most successful peer-to-peer networks are based on the concept of supernode, which is an operating point of the network that provides services and advanced functionalities to other nodes. Inspired by this idea, this paper proposes to integrate nodes that provide intelligent advanced services in the future architecture of the electrical grid. Besides facilitating the access to data services such as demand estimations and weather forecasts, these nodes are especially meant to hold virtual environments in which software agents, after being contracted, negotiate on behalf of users in energy markets. This architecture is designed to be compatible with the Energy Interoperation OASIS standard. The capabilities and feasibility of the proposal is demonstrated through realistic experiments based on OpenADR programs, in which users exchange energy by using parallel auction markets. In addition, in order to have the roles of buyer and seller in demand-response programs, thus allowing the creation of markets, a conceptual model based on negative loads and critical loads is provided. The experiments have proven that the proposed architecture facilitates the implementation of advanced distributed management systems in order that smart metering infrastructures, in contrast with traditional agent-based solutions, are released to perform negotiation tasks and access data services, while users gain both autonomy and decision-making capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary diseases are known to be largely inhomogeneous. To evaluate such inhomogeneities, we are testing an image-based method to measure gas flow in the lung regionally. Dynamic, spin-density-weighted hyperpolarized ^3He MR images performed during slow inhalation of this gas were analyzed to quantify regional inflation rate. This parameter was measured in regions of interest (ROIs) that were defined by a rectangular grid that covered the entire rat lung and grew dynamically with it during its inflation. We used regional inflation rate to quantify elastase-induced emphysema and to differentiate healthy ( n = 8) from elastase-treated ( n = 9) rat lungs as well as healthy from elastase-treated areas of one rat unilaterally treated with elastase in the left lung. Emphysema was also assessed by gold standard morphological and well-established hyperpolarized ^3He MRI diffusion measurements. Mean values of regional inflation rates were significantly different for healthy and elastase-treated animals and correlated well with the apparent diffusion coefficient of ^3He and morphological measurements. The image-based biomarker inflation rate may be useful for the assessment of regional lung ventilation. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In this research quaternary alloy thin films made of Cu, CdTe, and O have been grown and characterized. The samples used in this investigation were grown simultaneously by reactive RF co-sputtering and by introducing oxygen and argon in the chamber during growth and changing the power in the Cu target from 10 W to 50 W. The carrier distribution as a function of the position was studied by using energy dispersive spectroscopy-scanning electronic microscopy (EDS-SEM), micro-Raman spectroscopy, and photocarrier images. Structural characterization was carried out by using X-ray diffraction. According to the results, a lateral carrier distribution was found in all samples and a new phase identified as CuTe was revealed for samples grown at 50 W. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This research presents a structural and photocarrier radiometric (PCR) characterization of Cu x (CdTe) y O z thin films grown using reactive radiofrequency co-sputtering. Electronic distribution induced by variations in dopant concentration as a function of the position was studied using photocarrier radiometric images. Optical and structural characterization of these thin films was carried out by using micro Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Due to its nondestructive and noncontact characteristics, the PCR is an excellent technique that permits one to obtain details of lateral electronic distribution across the sample. It was found that Cu target power influences the electronic distribution and produces different phases such as Cu2Te and CdO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The ion Er3+ was introduced into a new kind of glassy matrices prepared from a mixture of CdO–ZnO–V2O5 and Er(NO3)3·5H2O as source of Er3+ ions. The obtained glasses were characterized by infrared spectroscopy and micro photoluminescence and micro Raman spectroscopies. The glass formation process produced Al diffusion from the crucible to the oxides mixture yielding crystalline micro aggregates. The room temperature photoluminescence spectra showed transitions from different Er3+ levels in the 450–900nm range. In particular, the 4F9/2 → 4I15/2 transitions were strongly affected by local electric fields since these transitions presented Stark effect splittings whose intensity was dependent on the atomic order surrounding the Er3+ ions. It was found that a highly reproducible multiplet emission was particularly strong in crystalline micro-regions of Zn x Al2− x O3 immersed in the vitreous matrix. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The cooling process by natural convection in cylindrical cavities is a phenomenon which takes place in several applications such as solar energy systems. In the present work a storage tank with an internal gas flue is studied experimentally and numerically during its long-term cooling process. The computational domain includes two fluids, i.e. water in the store and air in the chimney, and two external and internal layers of steel separated by polyurethane insulation material. In this paper, the numerical and the experimental analysis of the temperature field inside the tank submitted to an external convection cooling process with a constant convection heat transfer coefficient is presented. The air and the water temperature profiles along the vertical lines are obtained experimentally and numerically, for a cooling period of 90h. The numerical analysis is carried out using a specific CFD code developed for the present work; an axisymmetric domain has been considered. Finally, a detailed description of the phenomena that occur inside the water part of the domain during the cooling process is also provided. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In the computerized generation of human poses, it is important to take into account not only the active component of the torque, but also the ligaments and connective tissues which produce a passive torque at the limits of the joint range of motion. We present a fatigue model in which both active and passive torque components are essential parameters integrated in an inverse kinematics animation framework. We then use fatigue evolution to optimize the generated posture. We introduce an hysteresis activation pattern for each joint in order to set, whenever necessary, a fatigue reduction scheme through an active torque reduction constraint. The fatigue reduction scheme analyzes the fatigue level of each individual muscular group; when it is above a given threshold, a statically optimal joint variation is enforced to locally reduce the active torque while still achieving a desired task (e.g. reaching a point in 3D space). For that purpose we integrate the influence of passive/resistive torque in an active torque reduction scheme, allowing either the generation of reactive poses (i.e. an active strategy) or, on the contrary, the adoption of more relaxed ones (i.e. a passive strategy). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The primary productivity of the Salton Sea, California is excessively high, leading to low-oxygen conditions, low clarity, and odors associated with algal decomposition. Treating the inflow water with aluminum sulfate (alum) to remove soluble phosphorus (P), the limiting nutrient, is being considered to improve water quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of alum to remove dissolved phosphorus from New River water, and the potential for the Al-bound P to be released into the Salton Sea. The New River is dominated by agricultural wastewater and has a salinity somewhat higher than normally encountered for alum treatment (total dissolved solids = 2,300 mg l−1), thus, evaluation of alum’s effectiveness is needed. In addition, alum may be dosed directly into the New River and the floc allowed to flow into the Salton Sea if the precipitated P is stable in Salton Sea water. In this study, we evaluated the potential for floc-bound P to be desorbed in Salton Sea water, which has an unusually high salinity (46 g l−1). Aluminum at a 5-mg l−1 dose was effective in removing over 90% of the soluble phosphorus from the New River water. However, when the alum floc was added to Salton Sea water, up to 100% of the Al-bound P was released into the Sea water due to desorption, dissolution, and recrystallization of the alum floc. These results indicate that treatment of agricultural drainage water to reduce P-loading can be effective if the alum floc is settled and not allowed to enter the saline Salton Sea. In addition to alum costs, estimated at US$13 million year−1, settling basin construction and maintenance for floc removal would be required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Salton Sea is a hypereutrophic, saline lake in the desert of southern California. Like many lakes, the primary productivity of the Sea is limited by phosphorus. However, unlike most lakes, the release of P from the sediments is not controlled by the reductive dissolution of Fe(III)-oxide minerals. Most of the iron in the sediments of the Salton Sea is present as Fe(II)-sulfides and silicates. Rather, the sediments are dominated by calcite which is actively precipitating due to alkalinity production via sulfate reduction reactions. We hypothesized that calcite could be an important sink for phosphorus released from the decomposing organic matter. In this work we evaluated the potential for phosphate to coprecipitate with calcite formed in simulated Salton Sea sediment pore water. At calcite precipitation levels and P concentrations typical for the Salton Sea pore water, coprecipitation of P removed 82–100% of the dissolved phosphorus. The amount of P incorporated into the calcite was independent of temperature. The results of this work indicate that the internal loading of P within the Salton Sea is being controlled by calcite precipitation. Management of external P loading should have an immediate impact on reducing algae blooms in the Salton Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The efficiencies of two methods of functionalizing single wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) are compared, either through a radical addition of 4-methoxyphenylhydrazine hydrochloride by a classical thermally activated procedure, or via a microwave-assisted method. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and thermal gravimetric analysis clearly indicate the efficiency of both methods. Raman and absorption spectroscopy further confirm the functionalization and reveal the covalent nature of the bonds created at the carbon nanotube surface. For the microwave-assisted reaction, 5–15min is enough to functionalize the SWCNTs. Longer microwave exposure times reduce the functionalization yield and lead to a removal of groups which were bonded in a previous stage. An optimal choice of microwave irradiation time allows reducing the reaction time from days to minutes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A simple sample preparation method for the determination of four parabens and triclosan in indoor dust is presented. Analytes were extracted from the sample and isolated from interfering species using the matrix solidphase dispersion technique. After that, they were silylated and determined by gas chromatography combined to tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS). The influence of several factors on the yield and selectivity of the extraction was evaluated in detail. Under final working conditions, samples (0.5 g) were mixed with the same amount of anhydrous sodium sulfate and dispersed on 1.25 g of C18. This blend was transferred to the top of a polypropylene cartridge containing 2 g of Florisil. After removing less polar species with 10 mL of dichloromethane, analytes were recovered using 10 mL of acetonitrile. This extract was concentrated to 1 mL, derivatized, and injected in the GC/MS/MS system. Derivalization was carried out at 45 °C in 5 mm using 100μ,L of N-methyl-N-(tert-butyldimethylsilyl) trifluoroacetamide. Quantification limits from 0.6 to 2.6 ng/g and absolute recoveries between 80 and 114% were achieved. Analysis of dust samples demonstrated the presence of the target species in indoor dust from private houses. The highest average concentration (702 ng/g) corresponded to triclosan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We report a new SWNT functionalization method through 4-methoxyphenyl free radical addition. The 4-methoxyphenyl radicals are generated by air oxidation of 4-methoxyphenylhydrazine hydrochloride. Absorption and Raman spectroscopy show the covalent nature of the bond between the nanotubes and the functional groups. The XPS and TGA data furnish quantitative information on the degree of functionalization. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A solid-phase microextraction (SPME) method for the determination of triclosan, methyl triclosan, 2,4-dichlorophenol and 2,3,4-trichlorophenol (considered as possible triclosan metabolites) in water samples was optimised. Analytes were first concentrated on a SPME fibre, directly exposed to the sample, and then triclosan and the two chlorinated phenols on-fibre silylated using N-methyl-N-(tert.-butyldimethylsilyl)-trifluoroacetamide (MTBSTFA). Methyl triclosan remained unaffected during the derivatization step. Compounds were determined using gas chromatography in combination with mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Influence of different factors on the efficiency of extraction and derivatization steps was systematically investigated. Using a polyacrylate (PA) fibre quantification limits below 10ng/l, and acceptable relative standard deviations, were obtained for all compounds after an extraction time of 30min. On-fibre silylation was carried out in only 10min. Moreover, the efficiency of the procedure was scarcely affected by the type of water sample. The method was applied to several samples of treated and raw wastewater, triclosan was found in all samples, at concentrations from 120 to 14,000ng/l, and 2,4-dichlorophenol in most of them, at levels up to 2222ng/l. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Human keratinocytes are exposed to strong physical changes, and have the potentiality to react to external stimuli by switching on adaptation mechanisms. In hyperosmotically shocked keratinocytes a rapid and strong increase in calcium has been observed. We showed that this increase could not be prevented by growing the cells in medium devoid of calcium and in the presence of EGTA, indicating that the intracellular calcium increase was due to delivery from internal stores. Further, we observed an increased synthesis of dyacylglycerol and inositol trisphosphates after shock, suggesting that phospholipase C mediates both events. Our experiments demonstrated that osmotic shock in human keratinocytes leads to activation of phospholipase C-γ1, as measured using an in vitro assay system. This activation is independent of protein tyrosine phosphorylation and corresponded to a relocation of the enzyme to perinuclear membranes as shown by immunofluorescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New phosphines containing the homopiperazine backbone have been prepared. The X-ray structure of the P(III) phosphine and its P(V) sulphide are compared. The P–N bond length is shortened on oxidation from P(III) to P(V). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Reaction of isophthaloyl dichloride with two equivalents of benzylamine in the presence of Et3N gives N,N′-dibenzyl-1,3-isophthaldiamide which reacts with two equivalents of Ph2PCl, in the presence of n-BuLi at −78 °C to give 1,3-C6H4-{C(O)N(PPh2)CH2Ph}2 (1). Reaction of 1 with [PtCl2(cod)] in dichloromethane gives the P,P′,C tridentate bis-chelate [Pt(Cl){1,3-C6H4-{C(O)N(PPh2)CH2Ph}2}] (2), whilst reaction of 1 with two equivalents of [(C3H5)PdCl]2 in thf results in [{PdCl(C3H5)}2 {1,3-C6H4-{C(O)N(PPh2)CH2Ph}2}] (3) in which the ligand bridges two palladium centres. The X-ray structures of 2 and 3 are reported. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Ancient silver Mexican coins made during the years 1730–1734, were analyzed non-destructively by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and by optical microscopy. Nine coins of denomination eight Reales were studied. These coins belong to the numismatic private collection in Mexico. Six elements (copper, aluminum, magnesium, silicon, chromium and silver) were determined quantitatively. The coins reveal a uniform Ag concentration. Some of the items are covered with patina. A strong positive correlation between Al and Cu content and also a strong negative correlation between S and Ag were determined. The weight of the coins varied between 26.1344 and 26.9913 g, which is a good indicator of the authenticity of the items. The purpose of this work is to investigate by precise means if some of the coins were falsified or if really all of them are authentic. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The synthesis, oxidation and coordination chemistry of new bis(aminophosphines) based on diamines is demonstrated. Ph2PN(CH2Ph)CH2CH2(CH2Ph)NPPh2, iPr2PN(CH2Ph)CH2CH2(CH2Ph)NPiPr2, Ph2PNH(C10H6)2NHPPh2, Ph2PNH(C10H6)(C6H4)NHPPh2 were prepared and tested in the hydroformylation of hex-1-to give aldehydes with poor selectivity (up to l:b=2.5:1) to the desired linear products. Modelling calculations were performed for all ligands. R2 groups enlarge the natural bite angle when going from R2=Ph2 to R2=iPr2 which are more bulky. Most of the ligands seem to be rigid (with flexibility ranges of 25°–46°). Four demonstrative X-ray structures are reported. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Studies the synthesis and uses of phosphines containing phosphorus-nitrogen bonds. Potential properties in catalytic reactions as transition metal complexes; Kinetics of aminophosphines; Preparation of diphosphine ligands; Bond forming reactions; Control of molecular shape.

Background: The effect of respiratory medications on risk of asthma death in the UK was studied using the General Practice Research Database.Methods: A total of 96 258 individuals with a diagnosis of asthma were identified, 43 of whom had died as a result of their asthma. For each case 20 controls were selected. Relative risk (RR) estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were computed for each respiratory drug category controlling for effects of age, sex, body mass index, smoking, frequency of visits to the GP, hospital admissions for asthma, and visits to a specialist.Results: The strongest associations were found for at least 13 prescriptions of short acting beta agonists during the previous year (RR=51.6, 95% CI 7.9 to 345) and 7-12 prescriptions of short acting beta agonists (RR=16.2, 95% CI 2.6 to 101). Short acting beta agonists and inhaled steroids tended to be prescribed most frequently to the same patients. In patients who received more than one prescription per month of short acting beta agonists during the previous year, regular use of inhaled steroids was associated with a 60% reduced risk of asthma death (RR=0.4, 95% CI 0.2 to 1.0).Conclusions: Regular use of inhaled steroids is associated with a decreased risk of asthma death, and excessive use of short acting beta agonists is associated with a markedly increased risk of asthma death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reaction of piperazine or homopiperazine with R2PCl [R2=Ph2, OC2H4O, OC6H4O] gives six new bidentate phosphines. Simple bis-chelate and bridging complexes with demonstrative Mo(0), Pd(II), Pt(II) and Ru(II) centres are reported. The crystal structures of Ph2P(O)N(C2H4)2P(O)Ph2, cis-[PdCl2{Ph2PN(C2H4)2NPPh2}] (7) and cis-[PtCl2{Ph2PN(C5H10)NPPh2}][PtcodCl2]2 (15) are reported. In Ph2P(O)N(C2H4)2P(O)Ph2 the central N2C4 ring has a chair conformation and the P&z.dbnd6;O groups are trans. In 7 the piperazine backbone results in P&z.sbnd;Pd&z.sbnd;P bite angle of approximately 95° whilst in 15 the homopiperazine backbone enlarges the bite angle to 97°. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Investigates the relationship between cognitive mode of functions, school grades, behavior problems, untidiness and impulsiveness. Significance of music when subjects were left ear dominants and right eye dominants; Comparison of grades; Significance of mean scores in religion and music.

• Flow and heat transfer around a sphere under turbulent environment are studied using DNS and LES. • Incoming turbulence largely affects the fluid flow and heat transfer. • Increase of the free-stream turbulence shrinks the vortex formation region and increases drag coefficient. • Turbulence intensity increases the Nusselt number and its fluctuations, especially in the rear zone. • Turbulent heat fluxes in the wake are increased by ve times as turbulent intensity increases up to 10%. Free-stream turbulence is present in many engineering applications and is known to affect both bluff body aerodynamics and heat transfer. In this work, its effects on the heat transfer and the near wake behind a sphere are studied. To do this, direct and large-eddy simulations of the flow at the moderate Reynolds numbers of R e = 1000 and R e = 10 4 , with levels of incoming turbulence up to 10 % and a length scale of O (D) , D being the sphere diameter, are performed. At the Reynolds numbers under consideration, significant changes are observed. Incoming turbulence delays the separation of the laminar boundary layer from the sphere, while at the same time the drag coefficient and the Nusselt number are increased. The incoming level of turbulence also increases the momentum transfer from the surrounding fluid and energises the separated shear-layer. As a consequence, there is a shrinking of the recirculation zone which intensifies the heat transfer from the sphere and thus, the Nusselt number and its fluctuations, especially in the rear zone of the sphere. It is shown that free-stream turbulence increases the turbulent heat flux in the wake, with a larger entrainment of colder fluid from the surroundings, thus producing a faster decay of the temperature at larger levels of turbulence intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• LES of VIV 2dof low mass ratio circular cylinder at subcritical Reynolds number are performed. • A detail description of the flow topology at the boundary layer and in the near wake is presented. • Taylor-Görtler (TG) vortices at the cylinder surface are reported for the first time. • TG vortices origin and characteristics are studied in detail. In this work, the three-dimensional structure of the boundary layer in the context of the vortex induced vibration of a circular cylinder is presented and investigated for the first time. Large-eddy simulations of a low mass ratio (m = 2.6) two-degrees of freedom circular cylinder at the subcritical Reynolds number R e = 5300 and zero damping (ζ = 0) for several reduced velocities of the system have been performed. A detailed description of the flow topology at the cylinder boundary layer and in the near wake for the three branches of structural response, i.e. the initial (I), super-upper (SU) and lower (L) branches, is presented. In the SU branch, the boundary layer becomes three-dimensional due to the emergence of streamwise vortices which are associated to the onset of a centrifugal instability that occurs twice every cycle. This is the first time a centrifugal instability in a freely vibrating system is reported. The streamwise structures with alternating vorticity, called here Taylor-Görtler vortices, are described and characterised. It is shown that their wavelength is in agreement with that of other centrifugal instabilities observed in forced sinusoidal oscillating cylinders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]