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Over the past decade, the molecular targeted therapies have been found beneficial. These therapies utilize small chemical molecules which block the growth and spread of cancer by interfering with specific proteins involved in tumor growth and progression. The molecular targeted anticancer therapies use chemically cytotoxic molecules with a defined biological target. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) can target cancer cells without affecting normal cells, thus reducing the risk of side effects. A wealth of choices exists for first-line treatment selection, including the first-generation TKI imatinib and the second-generation TKIs bosutinib, dasatinib, and nilotinib. Asciminib was reported as tyrosine kinase inhibitor and was later approved by the US FDA. We have designed and synthesized novel methoxycyclohexyl nicotinamide analogues of asciminib. All synthesized compounds were characterized by 1H and 13C NMR and LCMS data. Biological evaluation was carried out in vitro by Resazurin assay against two cancer cell lines, K562 (human chronic myelogenous leukemia cell line) and MV411 (human acute myeloid leukemia cell line). ADME and toxicity prediction of the novel heterocyclic compounds was performed by Swiss ADME, AdmetSAR, and Molinspiration. The designed compounds showed good docking scores. However, the synthesized compounds exhibited moderate activity on the leukemia cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A clean, green, and efficient procedure has been developed for the synthesis of organic isothio-cyanates using zinc peroxide as a desulfurizing agent. The reaction between amines and carbon disulfide in the presence of liquid ammonia and zinc peroxide was performed at room temperature under mild conditions. Zinc peroxide proved to be a better desulfurizing agent than the previously reported desulfurizing agents. Linear, cyclic, and aromatic isothiocyanates can be synthesized by this method in high yield. Antimicrobial screening of the synthesized compounds revealed good activity of isothiocyanatobenzene, 1-chloro-2-isothiocyanatobenzene, and 2-phenylethyl isothiocyanate against C. albicans, E. coli, and B. subtilis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect of wire diameter and annealing on the properties of internal magnesium diffusion (IMD)-processed MgB 2 composite wires is studied by establishing a correlation with the characteristics of the interfacial reaction zones developed at Mg − B and barrier (Nb) – sheath (Al + Al 2 O 3) interfaces. The MgB 2 superconductor phase grows at the Mg − B interface along with the B-rich MgB 4 phase. Formation of MgB 2 prior to MgB 4 is anticipated owing to a relatively lower Gibbs free energy at annealing temperatures studied. An intermetallic NbAl 3 phase has developed at the barrier – sheath interface whose thickness decreases with an increase in the wire diameter. Development of NbAl 3 further provides mechanical reinforcement and aids at yielding a dense superconductor phase. Resistivity – voltage characteristics of wire indicates the formation of MgB 2 through a huge drop in resistivity values across the core of the wire. An annealing temperature of 645 °C near the melting point of pure Mg (650 °C) and annealing time of 120 min results in highest critical current of the MgB 2 wire. Annealing time beyond 120 min has shown an impediment to the flow current due to crack propagation possibly because of accumulation of stresses within the developed superconductor phase due to grain growth. A significantly greater resistance for the wire with the smallest diameter is attributed to the formation of a thicker NbAl 3 phase. However, highest engineering current density has also been attained by the wire with the smallest diameter annealed at 645 °C for 60 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel and efficient synthetic method utilizing CBr4 as a thiophilic reagent to facilitate one-pot oxidative condensation of amines with N,N′-disubstituted thioureas affording diverse set of guanidine derivatives is reported. The present protocol offers a valid alternative to the classical method involving toxic heavy metal salts activation due to the use of an easily available, cheap, and environmentally genial reagent, CBr4. The salient features of this protocol are its inexpensiveness, simple reaction conditions, easy purification of the products, and high yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work is based on the method development and validation of the UV-spectrophotometric method for the quantitative estimation of chrysin. We studied how the nature of the solvent affects chrysin solubility. The stock and diluted solutions were scanned using a UV visible spectrophotometer to obtain the λmax. The absorbance of the samples was recorded to obtain a calibration curve, which was followed by regression using MS Excel and Sigma stat software. The method developed by this process was further validated using parameters such as linearity, precision, limit of detection, limit of quantification, accuracy, and ruggedness. The solubility of chrysin was checked at 35°C in different oils, solvents, and co-solvents. The λmax of chrysin in methanol was found to be 367 nm. The calibration curve of the drug follows linearity (2–10 μg/mL) with a correlation coefficient of 0.991. At three different levels, i.e., 80, 100, and 120%, the method's accuracy was checked utilizing the percent recovery (97–99.5%). The precision studies were carried out in terms of intraday and interday variations. The ruggedness of the proposed method was studied by taking two. The solubility of chrysin was found to be the maximum in methanol (216.80 ± 0.0097 μg/mL) among the oils, solvents, and co-solvents used. Thus, based on the experiments done, the developed method was observed to be accurate, precise, and reproducible. The viscosity of the solvent and the possibility of hydrogen bonding are two crucial factors that affected the solubility of chrysin in the solvents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: normal Scapulae possess three borders; superior, medial/vertebral and lateral. According to standard text books of Anatomy, Superior border is straight, vertebral border is convex and lateral border is straight. But during scanning of scapulae in the osteology lab in department of Anatomy UPUMS Saifai, scapulae with concave and straight vertebral border were detected. On literature search, it was found that such scapulae were designated scaphoid scapulae. Also, scanty literature describes such anomaly of scapulae. Hence the study was conducted. The aim of the study is to elucidate the prevalence of scaphoid scapulae in Indian Population and to bring out associated clinical significance. Methods:: Vertebral border of fortyone scapulae, assorted and of unknown sex from osteology lab of UPUMS Saifai India, were observed to find the incidence of scaphoid scapulae. Results: Out of total 41 scapulae observed, normal scapulae with convex vertebral border were observed in 19 (46.34%) while scaphoid scapulae were detected in 22 (53.66%). In category of scaphoid scapulae, scapulae with concave border were observed in 3 (13.64%), with straight border in 12 (54.55%) and those with mixed border in 7 (31.82%) specimens. Conclusion: literature states that this anomaly is congenital and associated with certain conditions such as nocturnal incontinence, catarrhal affections, adenoids, vasculosclerotic changes to name a few. If scaphoid scapulae is detected in developing fetus, one can predict associated anomalies and necessary precaution may be taken during rearing of child. Thus, knowledge of this anomaly is essential to clinicians, anthropologists and anatomists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of reaction zones at the core Mg(Cu) – boron (B) and barrier (Ti) – sheath (Cu) interfaces of an internal magnesium diffusion (IMD) manufactured MgB 2 composite wire has been studied at varying temperatures of 560–665 °C for 30 min and varying time periods of 30–180 min at 560 °C. MgB 2 has predominantly formed at the Mg(Cu) – B interface with little solubility of Cu of 1–3 at%. A second phase enriched with Cu, Mg 2 Cu, has also formed at random locations within the MgB 2 phase matrix, indicating the advantage of doping Cu in the Mg rod. However, a layer of another B-rich phase, MgB 4 , has also formed at a higher temperature of 665 °C with negligible solubility of Cu at the MgB 2 – B interface. At the Ti – Cu interface, the formation of CuTi 2 , CuTi, Cu 4 Ti and Cu 4 Ti 3 intermetallic phases took place. However, the Cu 4 Ti and Cu 4 Ti 3 phases develop after annealing the wire at a relatively higher temperature of 620 °C and at 560 °C with progress in annealing time. Critical current density (J c) decreases with annealing time; however, the sensitivity of J c towards annealing time is low. Critical current density is found to be strongly dependent on the annealing temperature of the composite wires for the formation of the MgB 2 superconductor phase. A maximum critical current density of ∼ 2.5 × 104 A/cm2 at 5 T and 4.2 K is attained for the Cu-doped MgB 2 composite wire when annealed at 665 °C for 30 min. A maximum shift of only 0.5 K is measured for MgB 2 when formed at the highest annealed temperature compared to the lowest one in this study. [Display omitted] • Higher annealing time decreases critical current density, while higher temperature increases it. • Copper doping in the Mg rod enhances critical current density and catalyses MgB 2 layer growth. • Mg 2 Cu phase formation inside MgB2 enhances the overall functioning of composite wires. • Dense MgB 2 formation could result from intermetallic phases at the Cu-Ti interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since ensuring stability of the nanoparticles in aqueous-phase is essential for biomedical applications, this study evaluated the effect of ultra-sonication followed by peptization on iron-oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) aqueous-phase stability. The IONPs synthesized via two different chemical co-precipitation methods were ultra-sonicated for −5, −10 and 20-min and evaluated using Dynamic light scattering at Day-1, -2, -7 and -15 of the synthesis. The Experiment II-IONPs had lesser hydrodynamic size with better aqueous-phase stability over the time. The decrease in the average size and increase in homogeneity of solution was better following ultra-sonication for 20-min. These IONPs were peptized with perchloric acid to evaluate the effect on stability and longevity. The results showed large proportion of IONPs less than 100 nm even on day-15 post-peptization. Moreover, transmission electron microscopy revealed average size of 11.23 nm with round shape. The study showed positive influence of peptization on the aqueous-phase stability of the IONPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite numerous attempts to explain the phenomenon of transport and magnetoresistance in manganites based on Jahn–Teller phonon coupling and double exchange mechanisms, satisfactory results could not be reached. The small polaron transport mechanism, based on the valence exchange arising from Madelung energy, is shown to account for the resistivity and magnetoresistance of the doped manganite La2/3Ca1/3MnO3 in the ferromagnetic range. The transport equation for the correlated polaron based on the Holstein Hamiltonian shows the well known transition from the low temperature band to the localized polaron hopping conductivity at high temperature in agreement with experiment. The present attempt is to demonstrate that the complexity of the problem that involves the interplay between the spin and charge order on one hand and itinerant and localized behavior on the other for a simple ferromagnetic metal system of manganites is best described by the correlated small polaron model leaving the more complicated systems for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A ferroelectric crystal is known to exhibit the usual single hysteresis below its Curie point TC, but above this temperature its electric displacement D versus electric field E plot tends to form double loops. We first point out that there is a fundamental difference in the formation of double loops from the single one: the single loop is formed solely by polar reorientation, but in the double loops the right branch of its upper loop is formed by phase transition and only the left branch is formed by polar reorientation (the process is reversed for the lower loop). In this study we take the view that both cubic→tetragonal phase transition and the polar reorientation of ferroelectric domain are thermodynamics-driving process and use this concept to develop a micromechanics-based thermodynamic model to simulate the double hysteresis behavior of the crystal. We first derive the thermodynamic driving force for both spontaneous polarization and domain switch at a given level of temperature, stress, electric field, and new domain concentration c1 and then establish the kinetic equations for domain growth. A dual-phase homogenization theory is then introduced to calculate the overall electric displacement and mechanical strain of the crystal. This approach differs from the classical Landau-Ginzburg-Devonshire theory in at least two significant aspects: (i) it is developed with a micromechanics-based thermodynamics principle, and (ii) it can provide the evolution of new domain concentration. The developed theory is applied to a BaTiO3 crystal. The calculated results show a single loop below its TC and double loops above it but with a diminishing width at higher temperature. Furthermore, the longitudinal strain [variant_greek_epsilon] vs E loop is found to exhibit the usual butterfly-shape relation below TC, but above it the loop shows a new, overlapping double-well picture. Good agreement with available test data is also observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertility associated antigen (FAA) are more abundant in semen of bulls with high fertility. The objective was to investigate relationship of FAA, either membrane bound and/or in seminal plasma, with that of markers of oxidative stress, mitochondrial activity and acrosome integrity of live cells, in cryopreserved spermatozoa. Grouping of bulls was done by electrophoretic profiling of proteins from seminal plasma (SP), and sperm membrane (SM), based on presence/absence of the FAA in SP and/or SM or both. Group I had detectable FAA in both SP and SM; Group II, FAA detected only in SM; Group III, detectable FAA only in SP and Group IV, undetectable FAA in both SP and SM. At post-thaw stage, the lipid peroxide levels were significantly lower (p<0.05) and the activity of primary free radical scavengers (superoxide dismutase and catalase) was significantly higher (p<0.05) in Groups I and II. Correspondingly, Group I and II showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) per cent of acrosome intact live spermatozoa and sperm cells with functionally active mitochondria. Collectively, this study showed that the presence of FAA on the sperm membrane is related to greater protection against oxidative stress ensuing improved acrosome intact live-sperm cells with functional mitochondria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transport behavior of La1-xSrxMnO3 in the antiferromagnetic insulator, ferromagnetic insulator, and ferromagnetic metallic phases is shown to follow from the correlated polaron mechanism and a single transport equation accounts for the temperature dependence of resistivity for 0≤x≤0.40 in the 0–400 K range. In the low temperature range zero-point lattice vibration plays a dominant role in the transport in the metallic phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A systematic experimental study has been made of the combined influence of solute content (1%, 2%, 3%, 5%) and ultrasonic intensity (0, 88, 350, 790, 1400 W/cm 2 ) on grain refinement of Al-Si, Al-Cu and Al-Ni binary alloys. The grain refining efficiency was analyzed using the growth-restriction-factor (GRF) model. Ultrasonication resulted in more activated nucleants in Al-Cu alloys than in Al-Si and Al-Ni alloys by the model. The combination of high solute content and high ultrasonic intensity produced significant grain refinement, including significant refinement of eutectic structures that formed in the Al-5%Si, Al-5%Cu and Al-5%Ni alloys. In particular, high solute content ensured achievement of homogeneous and consistent grain morphology in ultrasonic grain refinement. In addition, excellent grain refinement was achieved in both the Al-5%Cu alloy, which has an equilibrium freezing range of 100 °C, and the Al-5%Ni alloy, which has an equilibrium freezing range of just 5 °C, under the same applied ultrasonic intensity (1400 W/cm 2 ) conditions. The mechanisms for ultrasonic grain refinement of Al alloys are discussed based on experimental findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A flow past a heterogeneous porous sphere is investigated by using the perturbation theory. The flow through the sphere is divided into two zones, which are fully saturated with the viscous fluid, and the flow in these zones is governed by the Brinkman equation. The space outside the sphere, where a clear fluid flows, is also divided into two zones: the Navier-Stokes zone and the Oseen flow zone. The solutions on the interface inside the sphere are matched with the condition proposed by Merrikh and Mohammad. The stream function in the Navier-Stokes zone is matched with that on the sphere surface by the condition proposed by Ochoa-Tapia and Whitaker. It is found that the drag on the spherical shell decreases as the permeability toward the sphere boundary increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to understand the regional climate implications of aerosols over Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP), a major Indo-US field experiment, Ganges Valley Aerosol Experiment (GVAX) was conducted during 2011-12. Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) mobile facility (AMF) was deployed at the northern Indo-Gangetic Plain over the high-altitude site, Manora Peak, Nainital (29°21'33.84"N, 79°27'29.27"E, 1980 m amsl) in Central Himalayas, for an year-round meas- urement of aerosols, clouds and other climate-relevant atmospheric parameters. One of the objectives of GVAX was examining the ability of models to simulate aerosols over Indian region and validate the simulations. In part-1 of this two-part paper, we examine use of the chemical transport model 'CHIMERE' to simulate aerosol fields over Indian region (4-37.5°N; 67-88.5°E) for multiple years (2006, 2007 and 2008) by simulating the spatial and temporal distribution of PM10, BC mass concentrations and OC/BC ratios. It is seen that the model successfully captures the broad features of the regional distribution of aerosols, including the most conspicuous IGP hotspot and its seasonality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we evaluate the performance of the chemical transport model 'CHIMERE' over large Indian region (4-37.5°N; 67-88.5°E) for multiple years (2006, 2007 and 2008) by comparing the model simulations with concurrent aerosol measurements from different locations. Model simulated near-surface black carbon mass concentrations agreed satisfactorily with measurements at various locations (oceanic, inland and island sites), in general, except during monsoon months, when the model under-predicted the measurements. Similar results were obtained when model simulated column integrated PM10 mass concentrations were correlated with MODIS-derived aerosol optical depth (AOD), using AOD as a proxy for aerosol loading. The under-performance of the model during monsoon arises, at least partly, due to the model-simulated rainfall being higher than the actual rainfall over the Indian domain, during the monsoon season. Notwithstanding these, the general performance of the CHIMERE model to simulate aerosol loading over Indian domain during dry months is, in general, found to be satisfactory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the integrability and dynamical properties of classical spin clusters which represent a Hamiltonian system. Advantages of classical spin dynamics of magnetic insulators; Mechanism which acts as the separatrix between two types of regular motion; Aspects of the calculation of time averages.

Surface topography, surface morphology and crater chronology studies have been carried out for the Lowell crater region (occupying ∼198 × 198 km 2 in the northwestern quadrant of the Orientale basin) using Kaguya TC-DTM, LRO-WAC data, and Chandrayaan-1 M 3 -750 nm image, to characterize and date Lowell impact event and to identify and assess the geological importance of the Lowell crater and effect of pre-existing geological conditions on the present day appearance of Lowell crater. The Lowell crater has been found to be polygonal in shape with an average diameter of 69.03 km. Its average rim height and depth from pre-existing surface are 1.02 km and 2.82 km respectively. A prominent central peak with average height of 1.77 km above the crater floor is present, which could have exposed undifferentiated mantle rocks. The peak exhibits a pronounced “V” shaped slumped zone on the eastern side and a distinct “V” shaped depression in the adjacent region on the crater floor. Several other peculiarities noticed and mapped here include W–E asymmetry in the degree of slumping of the walls and height of the topographic rim, N–S asymmetry in the proximal ejecta distribution with most of the material lying in the northern direction, concentration of exterior melt pools in the northeastern direction only, presence of several cross cutting pre-existing lineaments on the crater walls, presence of a superposed rayed crater on the eastern wall, and a geologically interesting resurfaced unit, which could be an outcome of recent volcanic activity in the region. It has been inferred that the Lowell crater formed due to impact of a ∼5.7 km diameter bolide in the Montes Rook region. The impact occurred at an angle of ∼30–45° from the S–SW direction. The age of the Lowell crater has been estimated as 374 ± 28 Ma, therefore it is a Younger Copernican crater consistent with the possibility expressed by McEwen et al. (McEwen, A.S., et al. [1993]. J. Geophys. Res. 98(E9), 17207–17231). Pre-existing topography and morphology has played a key role in shaping up the present day Lowell crater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though semen cryopreservation has many advantages, it decreases tolerance of spermatozoa to stress of temperature variations, thus disposing spermatozoa to increased cryoinjury. Predicting cryoinjury to spermatozoa is difficult with available laboratory protocols. The present study was designed to evaluate the cryoinjury prediction of sperm in relation to its cholesterol content. The cholesterol content at fresh, pre-freeze and post-thaw stage was 21.95±0.97, 9.58±0.45 and 7.44±0.44 ìg/100 million spermatozoa. Semen quality parameters (SQP) at pre-freeze and post-thaw stages were individual motility (71.58±1.29 vs. 47.83±1.16), acrosome integrity (71.00±1.48 vs. 61.58±1.70), Chlortetracycline (CTC) pattern (F: 29.67±1.14 vs. 15.83±1.02; B: 48.83±2.06 vs. 53.58±1.27; AR: 21.50±1.84 vs. 30.58±1.85). Study indicated that cholesterol content of fresh spermatozoa could be used to predict cholesterol content of spermatozoa at pre-freeze and post-thaw stages with medium to high level of accuracy. This study revealed strong evidence that cholesterol content of pre-freeze bull spermatozoa could be a good predictor of level of cryoinjury following preservation at ultra low temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

T cells have a critical role in immune surveillance at mucosal surfaces. SHIP1−/− mice succumb to mucosal inflammatory disease that afflicts the lung and small intestine (SI). The basis of this condition has not been defined. Here we show that SHIP1 is required for the normal persistence and survival of T cells in mucosal tissues. We find that CD4 and CD8 effector T cells are reduced; however, Treg cells are increased in the SI and lungs of SHIP1−/− and CD4CreSHIPflox/flox mice. Furthermore, a subset of T cells in the SI of SHIP1−/− mice are FasL+ and are more susceptible to extrinsic cell death. Mechanistic analyses showed that SHIP1 associates with the death receptor CD95/Fas and treatment with a Caspase 8 inhibitor prevents SHIP1 inhibitor-mediated T-cell death. Notably, mucosal inflammation in SHIP1−/− mice is reduced by treatment with a Caspase 8 inhibitor. We also find that the incidence of Crohn's disease (CD) and pneumonia is significantly increased in mice with dual T and myeloid lineage SHIP1 deletion but not in single lineage-deleted mice. Thus, by promoting survival of protective T cells, thereby preventing an inflammatory myeloid response, SHIP1 maintains an appropriate balance of innate immune function at mucosal surfaces necessary for immune homeostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is generally believed that the Moon became internally dead ~1 b.y. from the present, and only old (⇔? 1 b.y.) volcanic flows forming largely the mare basins are known to occur. The old volcanic landforms stand largely obliterated and flows studded with impact craters. However, recent findings have indicated global presence of young thrust faults on the Moon, escape of gases from the interior and also predicted the presence of partially molten lower lunar mantle and core. Here, we have used high-resolution datasets from NASA's LRO, Kaguya of JAXA and ISRO's Chandrayan-1 missions to examine the characteristics and origin of multiple relatively fresh, coaxial, superposed viscous flows spotted inside the Lowell crater on the far side of the Moon. Various considerations apparently rule out the possibility of these melts being derived from nearby areas. An associated likely source crater and tectonic structures (a fault and a fracture) of two different ages but emanating from the same crater and affecting different flows have also been located -- exhibiting tectono-volcanic relationship. These features provide evidences of likely volcanic activity in the region not too far in the past, are consistent with recent results that the Moon may not be internally dead, and thus have implications to the thermal history and present-day geologic nature of the Moon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SHIP-1 has an important role in controlling immune cell function through its ability to downmodulate PI3K signaling pathways that regulate cell survival and responses to stimulation. Mice deficient in SHIP-1 display several chronic inflammatory phenotypes including antibody-mediated autoimmune disease, Crohn's disease-like ileitis and a lung disease reminiscent of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The ileum and lungs of SHIP-1-deficient mice are infiltrated at an early age with abundant myeloid cells and the mice have a limited lifespan primarily thought to be due to the consolidation of lungs with spontaneously activated macrophages. To determine whether the myeloid compartment is the key initiator of inflammatory disease in SHIP-1-deficient mice, we examined two independent strains of mice harboring myeloid-restricted deletion of SHIP-1. Contrary to expectations, conditional deletion of SHIP-1 in myeloid cells did not result in consolidating pneumonia or segmental ileitis typical of germline SHIP-1 deficiency. In addition, other myeloid cell abnormalities characteristic of germline loss of SHIP-1, including flagrant splenomegaly and enhanced myelopoiesis, were absent in mice lacking SHIP-1 in myeloid cells. This study indicates that the spontaneous inflammatory disease characteristic of germline SHIP-1 deficiency is not initiated solely by LysM-positive myeloid cells but requires the simultaneous loss of SHIP-1 in other hematolymphoid lineages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] In vitro exposure with organophosphate pesticides induced oxidative stress in rat. [•] These pesticides caused oxidative DNA damage measured by modified comet assay. [•] Combined exposure with these pesticides had not shown synergistic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma agalactiae and Mycoplasma bovis both are responsible for respiratory conditions in sheep and goats. M. agalactiae is a major pathogen of sheep and goats and accounts for almost 90% of outbreaks of contagious agalactia syndrome in goats and almost 100% in sheep. On the basis of clinical signs and cultural, morphological, and biochemical characterization it is almost impossible to differentiate between both the species. Moreover, due to presence of genomic and proteomic similarity most of the time routine diagnostic tests fail to differentiate between them. Hence the present study was conducted to find out the protein profile of isolates of both the species by SDS-PAGE and to find out the cross-reacting as well as differentiating immunogenic proteins by Immunoblotting, which can be of immunoprophylactic as well as diagnostic values. The study revealed 6-7 major immunogenic cross-reactive proteins with the presence of two important non-cross-reacting species specific polypeptides particularly 25.50 and 24.54 kDa in M. agalactiae and M. bovis, respectively, that might be of diagnostic values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents PDC-109, one of the most abundant proteins in bovine seminal plasma, has detrimental effect on spermatozoa in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Therefore, we hypothesized that sequestration of detrimental protein from ejaculates would be beneficial following cryopreservation of sperm cells. To this aim, we evaluated the effect of sequestration of PDC-109 either by anti- PDC-109 antibodies ( Ab) or egg yolk ( EY) alone or by the synergistic action of EY + Ab in minimizing cryoinjury to bull spermatozoa. PDC-109 protein was purified by applying two-step chromatography procedures. The purified protein was injected in rabbits to raise antibodies which were isolated using ion-exchange chromatography. After checking the Ab cross-reactivity, they were quantitated and added to ejaculates, either alone or in addition to EY in Tris-glycerol ( TG) extender. Thus, ejaculates were processed in extender containing EY + TG (group I), Ab + TG (group II) or EY + Ab + TG (group III). Semen quality parameters ( SQPs) viz. viability and acrosome integrity ( FITC- PSA), cryoinjury to spermatozoa (chlortetracycline, CTC assay) and in vitro fertility of protein-sequestered-semen (zona-penetration assay) were evaluated. A significant (p < 0.05) improvement in post-thaw SQPs as well as in non-capacitated spermatozoa observed at pre-freeze and post-thaw stages of cryopreservation in group III compared with other groups indicated reduction in protein-mediated cryoinjury. From this study, it can be concluded that sequestration of PDC-109 by synergistic action of EY+ Ab as compared to either of them alone significantly improve sperm quality and minimize cryoinjury to bull spermatozoa upon storage at ultra-low temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Topographical, morphological and spectral reflectance studies have been carried out for a distinct resurface event inside Copernican aged Lowell crater (13.00°S 103.40°W), Orientale basin, using high resolution TC, MI-VIS, LROC-NAC, and M3 data from Kaguya, Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) and Chandrayaan-1 missions. The resurfacing is predominantly gabbroic/basaltic in composition and is confined to nearly a linear ~17km long, a 3–6km wide and a ~100m deep channel, possibly a graben. It is characterised with distinct surface features such as small uplift with melt pond, several lava-like flows, cracks going up to decimetre size, 20–80m pits/craters with small central uplifts or depressions and ~100m craters that emanate liquid. A minimum of three generations of flows have been identified within the unit, the oldest one being less viscous and the subsequent younger ones showing well developed lobes due to the high viscosity. There is a conspicuous absence of unambiguously identified primary impact craters on these flows suggesting their fresh nature. On the basis of these integrated observations we hypothesise that at least the younger portions of this amazingly carved resurfaced unit might be composed of volcanic flows erupted from single or multiple sources subsequent to the emplacement of impact melts from a ~9km diameter crater on the edge of Lowell crater. Gabbroic/basaltic signatures have also been identified at several other locations inside Lowell crater indicating that it would have impacted on a pre-existing basaltic surface or on a gabbroic pluton. These findings have implications to lunar magmatism and understanding of the genesis of young flows on the lunar surface. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The reflectivity of low-energy electrons from graphene on copper substrates is studied both experimentally and theoretically. Well-known oscillations in the reflectivity of electrons with energies 0-8 eV above the vacuum level are observed in the experiment. These oscillations are reproduced in theory, based on a first-principles density functional description of interlayer states forming for various thicknesses of multilayer graphene. It is demonstrated that n layers of graphene produce a regular series of n - 1 minima in the reflectance spectra, together with a possible additional minimum associated with an interlayer state forming between the graphene and the substrate. Both (111) and (001) orientations of the copper substrates are studied. Similarities in their reflectivity spectra arise from the interlayer states, whereas differences are found because of the different Cu band structures along those orientations. Results for graphene on other substrates, including Pt(111) and Ir(111), are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Although long-term storage of bovine semen is desirable for wider use, successful cryopreservation depends on several factors, including various proteins present in seminal plasma. One such group of proteins, viz. bovine seminal plasma (BSP) proteins represents the major protein fraction in bovine seminal plasma. They constitute three major heparin-binding (HB-) acidic proteins secreted by seminal vesicles, viz. BSP-A1/-A2 (PDC-109), BSP-A3 and BSP-30-kDa. By purification studies it was deduced that PDC-109 is a polypeptide of 109 amino acids and contains two tandem repeating fibronectin type-II (Fn-II) domains, preceded by a 23 residue N-terminal domain. Though BSP-A1 and BSP-A2 are biochemically similar they differ only in glycosylation and their mixture is called PDC-109 or gonadostatins. PDC-109 exists as a polydisperse, multimeric self-associated molecule and possesses multifunctional properties, viz. binding to the surface of plasma membrane of spermatozoa causing conformational change in the sperm surface proteins and enhances motility. Besides binding, PDC-109 protein provokes cholesterol efflux from sperm membrane and promotes sperm reservoir by interacting with oviductal membrane. Interaction of sperm with PDC-109 protein induces sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction. However, prolonged exposure of spermatozoa with free floating PDC-109 protein as during processing for preservation, increases cholesterol efflux from spermatozoa. The efflux of sperm membrane cholesterol and disturbance in cholesterol:phospholipids ratio causes destabilization of plasma membrane thereby inducing cryoinjury to the sperm. In this review, the biochemical, functional properties of PDC-109 protein and its role during semen cryopreservation is summarized. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Low-energy reflectivity of electrons from single- and multilayer graphene is examined both theoretically and experimentally. A series of minima in the reflectivity over the energy range of 0-8 eV are found, with the number of minima depending on the number of graphene layers. Using first-principles computations, it is demonstrated that a freestanding n-layer graphene slab produces n - 1 reflectivity minima. This same result is also found experimentally for graphene supported on SiO2. For graphene bonded onto other substrates it is argued that a similar series of reflectivity minima is expected, although in certain cases an additional minimum occurs, at an energy that depends on the graphene-substrate separation and the effective potential in that space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial α-galactosidase preparations have implications in medicine and in the modification of various agricultural products as well. In this paper, four isolated fungal strains such as AL-3, WF-3, WP-4 and CL-4 from rhizospheric soil identified as Penicillium glabrum (AL-3), Trichoderma evansii (WF-3), Lasiodiplodia theobromae (WP-4) and Penicillium flavus (CL-4) based on their morphology and microscopic examinations, are screened for their potential towards α-galactosidases production. The culture conditions have been optimized and supplemented with specific carbon substrates (1%, w/v) by using galactose-containing polysaccharides like guar gum (GG), soya casein (SC) and wheat straw (WS). All strains significantly released galactose from GG, showing maximum production of enzyme at 7th day of incubation in rotary shaker (120 rpm) that is 190.3, 174.5, 93.9 and 28.8 U/mL, respectively, followed by SC and WS. The enzyme activity was stable up to 7days at -20°C, then after it declines. This investigation reveals that AL-3 show optimum enzyme activity in guar gum media, whereas WF-3 exhibited greater enzyme stability. Results indicated that the secretion of proteins, enzyme and the stability of enzyme activity varied not only from one strain to another but also differed in their preferences of utilization of different substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The artificial insemination (AI) technique plays an important role in improvement of conception rate, prevention of sexually transmitted diseases and carryout of genetic material to next generation. The breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) plays an important step in selection of male buffalo for the said above purpose. This evaluation is an effective way, inexpensive and easy method for selection of breeding buffalo bull. In buffalo breeding management programme, the seasonal variation, nutrition, congenital defect, hormonal changes and hereditary plays a critical role in determining the reproductive efficiency in buffalo bull. The information regarding the reproductive efficiency of buffalo bull is meager for breeding soundness evaluation. The genetic defect has spread to next generation from the genetic defective sire and it will cause congenital defect in offspring. To avoid this problem, cytogenetic selection is very useful. So, a male buffalo calf being purchased for breeding purpose must be evaluated for breeding soundness examination. The breeding soundness evaluator should take care of genetic and congenital condition of male animal used for breeding programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigations on the solar cycle variation of the properties of suprathermal populations (H and other heavy ions like 4He, 3He, C, O, and Fe) in the solar wind are sparse and hence poorly understood. In the present investigation, solar cycle variations of “quiet” time suprathermal elements are investigated using <∼ 1 MeV nâˆ'1 particle flux data obtained from the Ultra-Low Energy Isotope Spectrometer on board the Advanced Composition Explorer satellite during solar cycles 23 and 24. The analysis reveals that helium (4He) shows zero or positive lags with respect to sunspot numbers in solar cycle 23 while it shows zero or negative lag in solar cycle 24. On the contrary, although iron (Fe) shows a zero or positive lag in cycle 23 similar to 4He, it shows only a zero lag in cycle 24 and no negative lag is seen. Further, significant differences in the spectral indices are seen between 4He and Fe in cycle 24 compared to cycle 23. These results suggest that generation mechanisms responsible for suprathermal 4He and Fe underwent changes in cycle 24 and these mechanisms are probably dependent on the first ionization potential and mass-to-charge ratio. This proposition gets credence from the fact that changes in the lags and spectral slopes for C and O are not significantly different in cycles 23 and 24. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A study was carried out to assess the effect of sequestration of PDC-109 protein, a majority constituent of heparin binding proteins (HBP) of seminal plasma, on freezability and in vitro fertilizing ability of crossbred bull spermatozoa after cryopreservation. The study consisted of isolation and characterization of PDC-109 protein to raise anti-sera against it in rabbits. Following which, raised antibodies against PDC-109 protein was quantitated and coated in tubes used for collection of ejaculates. Semen ejaculates thus collected were cryopreserved using EYTG extender. Physico-morphological characteristics, viz. motility, viability, acrosomal integrity and HOS response as an indicator of freezability of cryopreserved spermatozoa were determined at pre freeze as well as post thaw stage. At pre freeze stage, a significant (p < 0.05) improvement in viability (83.83±2.18 vs 75.17±2.42) and acrosome integrity (81.33±2.38 vs 72.83±2.39) in antibodies treated group than control was observed. Similarly, increase in HOS responsive spermatozoa was highly significant (p < 0.01) than control (78.83±1.69 vs 67.5±1.75). At post thaw stage, significant (p < 0.05) improvement in viability (69.50±2.16 vs 60.33±2.19) and HOS responsive spermatozoa (68.67±1.62 vs 58.50±1.32) and highly significant (p < 0.01) increase in individual motility (56.17±1.83 vs 47.00±1.86) and acrosome integrity (75.17±2.38 vs 61.83±2.1) was observed in antibodies treated group when compared to control was observed. The results from the study revealed that sequestration of PDC-109 protein from semen samples leads to significant improvement in pre-freeze and post-thaw values of above parameters in cryopreserved spermatozoa. It is thus concluded that sequestration of PDC-109 protein from ejaculates improves freezability of crossbred bull spermatozoa. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Graphene films prepared by heating the SiC(OOOl) surface (the C-face of the (0001¯} surfaces) in a vacuum or in a Si-rich environment are compared. It is found that different interface structures occur for the two situations. The former yields a well known 3x3 reconstructed interface, whereas the latter produces an interface with √43 x √43-R ± 7.6° symmetry. This structure is shown to contain a graphene-like layer with properties similar to the 6√3 x 6√3-R300 "buffer layer" that forms on the Si(0001) surface (the Si-face). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intercalated composite of polyaniline and clay has been reported. The composite was prepared by in situ polymerization of aniline within the layers of 'illite' clay. The composite was characterized for its structural, spectral, and microscopic properties. At higher level of loading the layered structure of composite breaks forming exfoliated composite, revealing well-defined nanosized dendritic morphology of polyaniline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mineral dust constitutes the single largest contributor of natural aerosols over continents. The first step towards separating natural aerosol radiative impact from its anthropogenic counterparts over continents is to gather information on dust aerosols. The infrared (IR) radiance (10.5-12.5 μm) acquired from the Kalpana-I satellite (∼8-km resolution) was used to retrieve regional characteristics of dust aerosols over the Afro-Asian region during the winter of 2004, coinciding with a national aerosol campaign. Here, we used aerosol-induced IR radiance depression as an index of dust load. The regional distribution of dust over various arid and semi-arid regions of India and adjacent continents has been estimated, and these data in conjunction with regional maps of column aerosol optical depth (AOD) are used to infer anthropogenic aerosol fraction. Surprisingly, even over desert locations in India and Saudi Arabia, the anthropogenic fraction was relatively high (∼0.3 to 0.4) and the regionally averaged anthropogenic fraction over India was 0.62 ± 0.06. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Effects of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) on plant physiology have been previously studied, but such studies have relied on the use of NaSH as a method for supplying H2S to tissues. Now new compounds which give a less severe H2S shock and a more prolonged exposure to H2S have been developed. Here the effects of one such compound, GYY4137, has been investigated to determine its effects on stomatal closure in Arabidopsis thaliana. It was found that both NaSH and GYY4137 caused stomatal opening in the light and prevented stomatal closure in the dark. Nitric oxide (NO) has been well established as a mediator of stomatal movements and here it was found that both NaSH and GYY4137 reduced the accumulation of NO in guard cells, perhaps suggesting a mode of action for H2S in this system. GYY4137, and future related compounds, will be important tools to unravel the effects of plant exposure to H2S and to determine how H2S may fit into plant cell signalling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OH radical number density in multiple atmospheric pressure microwave plasma jets is measured using UV cavity ringdown spectroscopy of the OH (A-X) (0-0) band at 308 nm. The plasma cavity was excited by a 2.45 GHz microwave plasma source and plasma jets of 2-12 mm long were generated by using three different plasma gases, argon (Ar), Ar/N, and Ar/O. Comparative characterization of the plasma jets in terms of plasma shape, stability, gas temperature, emission intensities of OH, NO, and N, and absolute number density of the OH radical was carried out under different plasma gas flow rates and powers at various locations along the plasma jet axis. With three different operating gases, the presence of OH radicals in all of the plasma jets extended to the far downstream. As compared to the argon plasma jets, the plasma jets formed with Ar/N and Ar/O are more diffuse and less stable. Plasma gas temperatures along the jet axis were measured to be in the range of 470-800 K for all of the jets formed in the different gas mixtures. In each plasma jet, OH number density decreases along the jet axis from the highest OH density in the vicinity of the jet tip to the lowest in the far downstream. OH density ranges from 1.3 × 10 to 1.1 × 10, 4.1 × 10 to 3.9 × 10, and 7.0 × 10 to 4.6 × 10 molecule/cm in the Ar, Ar/N, and Ar/O plasma jets, respectively. The OH density dependence on plasma power and gas flow rate in the three plasma jets is also investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shoot biomass production, alkaloid content and composition as influence by cadmium, manganese, nickel and lead at uniform dose of 5 mM were investigated in Catharanthus roseus plants grown in sand culture. Treatment with Mn, Ni, and Pb significantly enhanced total root alkaloid accumulation. Cd and Ni treatment resulted in two-fold where as Pb treatment resulted in three fold increase in serpentine content of roots. The non-significant affect on biomass suggests that plants can withstand metal stress at the level tested with positive affect on root alkaloid content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new algorithm is presented that automatically detects filaments on the Sun in full-disc Hα images. Pre-processing of Hα images includes corrections for limb darkening and foreshortening. Further, by applying suitable intensity and size thresholds, filaments are extracted, while other solar features, e.g. sunspots and plages, are removed. Filament attributes such as their position on the solar disc, total area, length, and number of fragments are determined. In addition, every filament is also labelled with a unique number for identification. The algorithm is capable of following a particular filament through successive images, which allows us to detect their changes and disappearance. We have analysed ten cases of filament eruption from different observatories, and the results obtained are presented. The algorithm will eventually be integrated with an upcoming telescope at the Udaipur Solar Observatory for real-time monitoring of activated/eruptive filaments. This aspect should prove to be of particular importance in studies pertaining to space weather. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simultaneous measurements of absolute concentrations of H2O and OH radicals in an atmospheric AC discharge using continuous wave cavity ringdown spectroscopy (cw-CRDS) are reported. Formation of OH radicals and plasma temperatures are characterized by optical emission spectroscopy. The concentration of OH radical at the edge of the discharge plume at 380 K is measured by the cw-CRDS technique to be 1.1 ×1015 molecule cm-3. Ringdown measurements of the H2O (120-000) band and the OH first overtone around 1515 nm enable us to determine an OH generation yield, $\Phi =\frac{N_{\rm OH} }{N_{\rm H_2 O}}$, to be 4.8 ×10-3, where NOH and $$ N_{H_2 O} $$ are the number densities of OH and H2O, respectively. The minimum detectable absorption coefficient of the cw-CRDS system is 8.9 ×10-9 cm-1, which corresponds to a 1σ detection limit of OH number density of 1.2 ×1013 molecule cm-3 in the discharge. This experimental approach is demonstrated for the first time ever in an AC discharge, and can be applied in general to a variety of atmospheric plasmas to help study OH formation mechanisms and OH-related plasma applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have reconstructed the leading edge of a coronal mass ejection (CME) observed on 20 May 2007 by COR1 and COR2 of the SECCHI suite onboard the twin STEREO spacecraft. The reconstruction of the leading edge of this CME was achieved using the tie-pointing method based on epipolar geometry. The true speeds derived from the reconstruction of the leading edge were estimated. These estimated true speeds were compared with the projected plane-of-sky speeds of the leading edge of the CME derived from LASCO aboard SoHO as well as from STEREO A and B images individually. The results show that a better estimation of the true speed of the CME in the Sun – Earth direction is achieved from the 3D reconstruction and therefore has an important bearing on space weather prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper reports the development of polystyrene-foliated graphite composites via a hot compression moulding technique. Foliated graphite, as obtained by the sonication of expanded graphite, was used as a filler. A distinct percolative behaviour was observed in the variation of conductivity of the composites as a function of graphite concentration. At the percolation concentration of graphite content (0.02 vol. fraction), the conductivity is found to be ca. 10-5S/cm. The percolation behaviour was analyzed using the generalized effective media equation. An estimation of the interparticle distance between the filler particles/clusters in the composites was made. The analysis of current-voltage characteristics revealed that near the percolation threshold the electrical transport is due to tunnelling of charge carriers, while above the threshold it is ohmic in nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper reports the development of polystyrene-foliated graphite composites via a hot compression moulding technique. Foliated graphite, as obtained by the sonication of expanded graphite, was used as a filler. A distinct percolative behaviour was observed in the variation of conductivity of the composites as a function of graphite concentration. At the percolation concentration of graphite content (0.02 vol. fraction), the conductivity is found to be ca. 10-5 S/cm. The percolation behaviour was analyzed using the generalized effective media equation. An estimation of the interparticle distance between the filler particles/clusters in the composites was made. The analysis of current-voltage characteristics revealed that near the percolation threshold the electrical transport is due to tunnelling of charge carriers, while above the threshold it is ohmic in nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Neural progenitor cell transplantation has emerged as a promising approach for cell replacement therapy in the brain of neurodegenerative diseases. These are multipotent stem cells with self-renewal capabilities and can give rise to cells of all the three lineages of nervous system and can be maintained and differentiated to desirable neuronal subtypes in vitro with known trophic factors. However, like fetal cells, neural progenitor cells after differentiating to specific neuronal type also require continuous neurotrophic factor support for their long-term survival following transplantation. Recent reports suggest that olfactory ensheathing cells are capable of providing continuous neurotrophic factor to the transplanted neural progenitor cells for their long-term survival. In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to validate functional restoration in kainic acid lesioned rat model of cognitive dysfunction following co-transplantation of neural progenitor cells with olfactory ensheathing cells. Animals lesioned with kainic acid in CA3 subfield of hippocampal region were transplanted with neural progenitor cells, olfactory ensheathing cells or neural progenitor cells+olfactory ensheathing cells together. Twelve weeks post-transplantation functional restoration was assessed using neurobehavioral, neurochemical, and immunohistochemical approaches. Significant recovery in learning and memory (89%) was observed in co-transplanted group when compared to lesioned group. This was accompanied by significantly higher expression of choline acetyltransferase and restoration in cholinergic receptor binding in co-transplanted group (61%) over the animals transplanted either olfactory ensheathing cells or neural progenitor cells alone. Role of olfactory ensheathing cells in supplementing neurotrophic factors was further substantiated in vitro by pronounced differentiation of neural progenitor cells to choline acetyltransferase/acetylcholine esterase immunoreactive cells when co-cultured with olfactory ensheathing cells as compared to neural progenitor cells alone. The results strengthened the hypothesis that co-transplantation of olfactory ensheathing cells and neural progenitor cells may be a better approach for functional restoration in kainic acid induced rat model of cognitive dysfunction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To assess symptom-specific care-seeking practices for newborns and behavioral factors associated with them to inform strategies to enhance newborn care seeking in urban Lucknow, Northern India. This was a prospective follow-up study of consecutive 326 neonates delivered at an urban reproductive and child health (RCH) center. Focused Group Discussions (n=5) were also conducted in urban slums (n=3) at the RCH center (n=1) and at a district hospital (n=1). Overall, 326 neonates were recruited within 48 h of birth and 289 (88.7%) were followed up at 6 weeks (±15 days) at home. Parents of 51.2% (148/289) neonates reported at least one symptom of illness. Among these, 27.3% (79/289) neonates had at least one reported Integrated Management of Neonatal and Childhood Illnesses (IMNCI) danger sign, of which 15 (18.9%) did not receive any modern medical care, 5(33.3%) of which were dead by early infancy. Care seeking from unqualified providers (spiritual/traditional) was 33.3% (3/9) for persistent diarrhea and 23.5% (4/17) for pneumonia. Qualitative data from Focused Group Discussions showed that when pictures of some danger signs were shown like sunken eyes, reduced skin turgor, chest in-drawing and bulged fontanel, care seeking for these as well as fast breathing were influenced by ‘local beliefs’, which considered them to be untreatable by modern medicines alone. Thus, care seeking from multiple providers and use of traditional/home remedies delayed appropriate and timely medical care seeking. Almost half of the neonates had an illness symptom of which half had an IMNCI danger sign, of which one fifth did not receive medical care. Therefore, there is an urgent need to introduce a locally modified community IMNCI program here, for promoting care seeking from qualified providers for sick neonates.Journal of Perinatology (2008) 28, S69–S75; doi:10.1038/jp.2008.169 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims. To provide an overview of the literature relating to the principles, policy and practice of extended nursing roles in UK intensive care settings to date; to review and critically assess evidence of impact, outcomes and effect on practice and provide suggestions for future research. Background. It is known that career development opportunities, new technologies, patient needs, as well as the reduction in junior doctors' hours, are driving the development of new roles for nurses. Policy initiatives aim to expand nursing roles to support professional substitution. In adult, neonatal and paediatric intensive care, specialist trained nurses and designated advanced nursing practitioners are increasingly taking on extended practice of clinical tasks previously undertaken by medical staff. As yet there are no statutory regulations on the perceived scope and definition of the role of extended and advanced roles. Design. Systematic review. Methods. Search of electronic databases and selection of policy and peer-reviewed reports and reviews of extended nursing roles or advanced nursing practitioners in UK intensive care settings. Results. Chronological review shows policy development proceeding in a relatively ad hoc way. There is limited information available about how extensively or effectively extended nursing roles are being implemented in intensive care settings in the UK, particularly in adult and paediatric intensive care. To test local initiative findings for reliability and generalisability, a more robust evidence base is required. Conclusions. More data are needed on definition and outcomes of extended nursing roles in intensive care and care process measures should be developed to better inform implementation of nurse role development in the UK. Relevance to clinical practice. The review of policy and research evidence in this paper may better inform clinicians working in adult, neonatal or paediatric intensive care, as they continue to be challenged by expansion and development of their role. It may also help to form a basis and evaluation for future research into extended and advanced nursing roles in intensive care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have developed a standalone, user-friendly, multi-species ringdown spectrometer for in situ measurements of methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and a carbon dioxide isotope (13CO2). The instrument is based on near-infrared continuous-wave cavity ringdown spectroscopy (NIR cw-CRDS) and engineered to be of approximately 16 kg with dimensions of 50 cm × 40 cm × 15 cm. The instrument design, optical configuration, electronic control, and performance are described. CH4, CO2, and 13CO2 are measured at different wavelengths that are obtained through multiplexing two distributed feedback laser diodes with central wavelengths at 1597 and 1650 nm. The spectrometer has low power consumption and runs for 4–6 h when powered by a standard car battery. The instrument is operated either locally by interacting with a 7-inch touch screen or remotely via an Internet connection. The 1-σ detection limits for CH4 and CO2 are 0.2 and 120 ppmv, respectively. The measurement uncertainty is better than ±4% of full-scale reading for CH4 and CO2 and ±1.5‰ for δ13C (part per thousand relative to the Pee Dee Belemnite scale). Measurement of each species is near real-time; switching from measuring one species to another takes less than one minute. This work demonstrates a novel multiple-species CRDS-instrumentation platform, which can be adopted for development of an array of ringdown spectrometers for portable, user-friendly, field analysis of a variety of gases in environmental and industrial applications. Discussion of a future version of the spectrometer with better detection sensitivity, higher accuracy, and a smaller geometry is also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The origin of nonlinearity in a ferroelectric crystal is domain reorientation, and such a process can be affected by the presence of a compressive stress. In this article we examine how a superimposed compression affects the evolution of new domain and how it changes the shape of the hysteresis loop. We start out by considering the thermodynamic driving force for domain reorientation, and then use a dual-phase homogenization theory to calculate the overall response. To uncover the influence of a compressive stress, the theory is used to calculate the hysteresis loop between the electric displacement D and the electric field E of a BaTiO3 crystal, first without and then with a compression, using a two-consecutive 90° switch model (i.e. 0°→90°→180°). It is found that, from the initial 0° position, the compressive stress will increase the thermodynamic driving force and promote an earlier onset of the 90° domain, but its presence will cause a significant delay for the reorientation process to pass through the intermediate 90° state in route to its final 180° configuration. The D vs. E loop then exhibits a more round shape and a lesser steep slope near the coercive field. The delayed passage and more rounded shape are found to be consistent with a recent experimental observation [Burcsu et al., 2004. J. Mech. Phys. Solids 52, 823–846]. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Uniform flow of an incompressible viscous fluid at small Reynolds number past a porous sphere of radius a with a solid concentric spherical core of radius b has been discussed. The region of the porous shell is called zone I which is fully saturated with the viscous fluid, and the flow in this zone is governed by the Brinkman equation. The space outside the shell where clear fluid flows is divided into two zones (II and III). In these zones the flow is discussed following Proudman and Pearson's method of expanding Stokes' stream function in powers of Reynolds number and then matching Stokes' solution with Oseen's solution. The stream function of zone II is matched with that of zone I at the surface of the shell by the condition suggested by Ochoa – Tapia and Whitaker. It is found that the drag on the spherical shell increases with the increase of the λ (= b/a) and also with the increase of the Darcy number. The graph of dimensionless drag against λ for various values of Reynolds number shows that the drag increases with the increase of the Reynolds number for all values of λ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]