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We report three-dimensional Mott variable-range hopping (3D Mott-VRH) transport of Sr2IrO4 epitaxial thin films, with a transition to Efros-Shklovskii variable-range hopping (ES-VRH) with increased misfit strain or isovalent doping. We have observed that the characteristic temperature of 3D Mott-VRH transport decreases under increased misfit strain, implying that the density of states near the Fermi energy is reconstructed. With further increased misfit strain (or doping with Ca or Ba ions), a crossover from the 3D Mott-VRH to ES-VRH transport takes place due to increased carrier localization by disorder, opening a Coulomb gap by increasing the effective electron-correlation. The results of magnetoresistance measurements also confirm that the disorder caused by misfit strain or isovalent doping plays an important role in the electronic transport of these Sr2IrO4 thin films. Our experimental observations propose that subtle external stimuli such as structural modifications can modulate the electronic properties of the relativistic Mott insulator, suggesting an unprecedented pathway for electronic device applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let 𝒰 n , g + − be the set of all unbalanced unicyclic graphs of order n and girth at least g. In this paper, we determine the signed graph whose largest eigenvalue is maximal among all graphs in 𝒰 n , g + − . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amino acids have diverse roles in plant metabolism, and recently amino acid based fertilizers have been used largely in crop production systems. Despite most of these new fertilizers are formulated for foliar application; however, morphophysiological responses of crops to amino acids application have applicationnot yet been well documented. In the present study, foliar application of glycine or glutamine in different concentrations of 0 (distilled water), 250, 500, 1000 mg·L-1, as well as a treatment of 250 mg·L-1 glycine + 250 mg·L-1 glutamine were evaluated on growth of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) plants. The results showed that foliar application of glycine or glutamine at 1000 mg·L1 showed no improvement in comparison with control for all traits except for leaf Lascorbic acid concentration that showed the highest value under these amino acids treatments. However, foliar application of these amino acids at 250 and particularly 500 mg·L-1 showed promising effect on sweet basil growth. Plant shoot fresh and dry weight, leaf area, leaf SPAD value, and leaf chlorophyll content were improved by foliar application of 500 mg·L-1 glycine or glutamine in comparison with control plants. Foliar application of amino acids increased leaf nitrogen (glutamine 250 and 500 mg·L-1), potassium (glycine 250 mg·L-1), magnesium (glutamine 250 or 500 mg·L-1, glycine 250 mg·L-1, glycine + glutamine; 250 + 250 mg·L-1), iron (glycine and glutamine at 500 mg·L-1 and glutamine at 250 mg·L-1), and zinc (glycine and glutamine at 250 or 500 mg·L-1), whereas the increase in leaf nutrients caused by other treatments was not significantly different from control plants. Leaf calcium concentration was not changed by amino acid treatments. The results indicate that foliar application of moderate to low concentrations of glutamine or glycine can improve sweet basil growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aminochelate are organic-based chelate fertilizers with higher efficiency for agricultural applications. In the present study, foliar application of three organic-based chelate fertilizers, a macro-micro mixture and soil applied NPK were evaluated on French bean growth characteristics under open field in a calcareous soil. The results showed that plant growth, pod yield (79%) and pod quality were improved by application of chelate fertilizers. Growth parameters as plant height, number of leaves and lateral shoots, shoot dry weight, pod number and pod length were significantly increased by foliar application of the chelate fertilizers. The concentrations of nitrogen, potassium and iron in pods and above all in leaves were increased by foliar application of chelate fertilizers compared to control and soil applied NPK. Pod pH and TSS were not influenced by treatments; however, foliar application of the chelate fertilizers resulted in higher titratable acidity (40%), vitamin C (112%) and protein (35%) content of pods. The results indicate that organic-based chelate fertilizers can be effective safer alternatives for simple chemical salts in calcareous soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato is a typical plant that has distinct response to different nitrogen forms in hydroponic culture. In addition, it is a well known susceptible plant to ammonium nutrition in hydroponic culture. However, its response to foliar application of nitrogen sources and N-forms has not been well investigated. In the present study, the growth, productivity and fruit quality of tomato was investigated under foliar application of nitrogen from different sources. Ammonium sulfate, urea and calcium nitrate with constant concentration of 100 mM N were weekly sprayed during four months under hydroponic culture system. A water spray treatment was considered as control. The results showed that vegetative growth parameters were significantly affected by N sources in different patterns. The factors such as plant height, leaf area, number of lateral shoots and shoot fresh and dry weight, as well as leaf nitrate reductase activity was significantly reduced by foliar application of ammonium sulfate and to less extent by urea, while there was improvement of these traits by foliar application of calcium nitrate compared to control. However, ammonium sulfate treated plants had the highest leaf SPAD value and leaf N concentrations. Plant fruiting pattern was also influenced by treatments, as ammonium sulfate spray reduced the fruit yield, and fruit vitamin C content, while it increased fruit TSS and titratable acidity. The highest value of yield and vitamin C was recorded in calcium nitrate sprayed plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of plane of nutrition on body weight, average daily gain, dry mater intake, semen characteristics, serum testosterone concentration and testicular circumference of Sanjabi ram lambs during the natural breeding season. Sanjabi ram lambs ( n = 20) that were 8 months of age were penned under natural photoperiod at latitude 34°18′N for a period of 9 months. The control group (C, n = 10) received a diet consisting of 80% alfalfa and 20% concentrate, providing 2.18 Mcal metabolizable energy and 130.0 g/kg DM crude protein, whereas, treatment group (T, n = 10) was fed with 65% alfalfa and 35% concentrate, providing 2.34 Mcal metabolizable energy and 160.0 g/kg DM crude protein. Body weight, additive daily gain and feed intake in T group were significantly greater than those obtained in C group. Body weight and testicular circumference increased at a steady rate throughout the experiment. All semen variables (except percentage of abnormal sperm and semen pH), serum testosterone concentration and testicular circumference were positively influenced by nutritional state ( P < 0.05). Interaction of nutritional state with season was found for semen volume, sperm concentration and abnormal sperm, but there was no interaction on the total sperm, progressive motility, live sperm, semen pH and semen index. It is concluded that the reproductive activity of growing Sanjabi ram lambs is affected by nutritional state. These results also demonstrated a monthly pattern in reproductive characteristics of Sanjabi ram lambs, independent of the nutritional state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are an emerging class of active polymers that can be used on a wide range of reconfigurable structures and actuation devices. The present study comprehensively examines the shape recovery abilities of an epoxy-based SMP under unconstraint and constraint conditions. Results show that the present SMP exhibits excellent shape recovery under unconstraint conditions, regardless of the levels of fixing strain and fixing temperature. The SMPs are also able to recover fully under load and to generate high levels of stress during recovery. When activated under a programed thermomechanical cycle, the material has demonstrated excellent shape fixity and reached full recovery on re-heating. The shape recovery process of the SMP has been analyzed by using Chen and Lagoudas' model. Each step of the thermomechanical cycle (deforming, cooling, fixing, and recovering) has been successfully predicted. The simulated results are found to be consistent with the experimental observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor estrus expression and the difficulty encountered in predicting the time of ovulation compromise the reproductive efficiency of Murrah buffalo cows. Synchronization of ovulation and timed artificial insemination are able to precisely control the time of ovulation and thus avoid the need for estrus detection. Recently, the Estradoublesynch protocol (administration of a PGF2α injection 2 days before Heatsynch protocol; GnRH 0, PGF2α 7, estradiol benzoate [EB] 8) was developed that precisely synchronized ovulation twice, i.e., after GnRH and EB injections and resulted in satisfactory pregnancy rates in Murrah buffaloes. The present study was conducted on 104 cycling and 31 anestrus buffaloes to compare (1) the endocrine changes, timing of ovulations, ovarian follicular growth, and efficacy of Estradoublesynch and Heatsynch protocols in cycling and (2) the efficacy of Estradoublesynch and Heatsynch protocols for the improvement of fertility in cycling and anestrus Murrah buffalo cows. Ovulation was confirmed after all GnRH and EB treatments by ultrasonographic examination at 2-hour intervals. Plasma progesterone and total estrogen concentrations were determined in blood samples collected at daily intervals, beginning 2 days before the onset of protocols until the day of second ovulation detection. Ovulatory follicle size was measured by ultrasonography at six time points (first PGF2α administration of Estradoublesynch protocol every 2 days before the onset of Heatsynch protocol, GnRH administration of both protocols, 2 hours before ovulation detection after GnRH administration of both protocols, second PGF2α injection of Estradoublesynch protocol, PGF2α injection of Heatsynch protocol, EB injection of both protocols and, 2 hours before ovulation detection after EB administration of both protocols). Plasma LH, total estrogen, and progesterone concentrations were determined in blood samples collected at 30-minute intervals for 8 hours, beginning GnRH and EB injections, and thereafter at 2-hour intervals until 2 hours after the detection of ovulation. The first ovulatory rate was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the Estradoublesynch protocol (84.6%) than that in the Heatsynch protocol (36.4%). The first LH peak concentration (74.6 ± 10.4 ng/mL) in the Estradoublesynch protocol was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of the Heatsynch protocol (55.3 ± 7.4 ng/mL). In Estradoublesynch protocol, the total estrogen concentration gradually increased from the day of GnRH administration coinciding with LH peak, and then gradually declined to the basal level until the time of ovulation detection. However, in Heatsynch protocol, the gradual increase in total estrogen concentration after GnRH administration was observed only in those buffalo cows, which responded to treatment with ovulation. In both Estradoublesynch and Heatsynch protocols, ovulatory follicle size increased by treatment with GnRH and EB until the detection of ovulation. The pregnancy rate after the Estradoublesynch protocol (60.0%) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that achieved after the Heatsynch protocol (32.5%). Satisfactory success rate using the Estradoublesynch protocol was attributed to the higher release of LH after treatment with GnRH, leading to ovulation in most of the animals and hence creating the optimum follicular size at EB injection for ovulation and pregnancy to occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ten male Merghoz goats with initial live weights of 29.2 ± 1.2 kg (Mean±SE) were used to investigate the effect of natural changes in photoperiod on dry matter intake (DMI) and reproductive activity during a 365 day study. The bucks were housed in individual pens, under natural daylength condition at west of Iran, Kermanshah (34° 18' N and 47° 3' E and 1420 m above sea level). A diet was offered with an estimated concentration of metabolizable energy and crude protein of 7.9 MJ and 98.8 g per kg dry matter (DM) respectively. Live weight, DMI, and additive daily gain (ADG) of individual animals were recorded weekly. The serum testosterone concentrations were determined in blood samples collected at monthly intervals. During the observation period, semen was collected monthly with the aid of an electro-ejaculator and examined microscopically immediately after collection. The physical parameters of semen and the semen index were recorded. The sexual behavior and testicular size of goats were assessed monthly throughout the study period. The highest DMI was observed during summer (64.3±0.9 g/kg BW0.75) and spring (62.2±2.9 g/kg BW0.75) however, the lowest was recorded in the winter season (54.0±0.9 g/kg BW0.75). The seasonal values of ADG (g/d) ranked spring > summer > winter > autumn. Bucks demonstrated the highest sexual behavior in late summer and, thereafter during autumn, using the lower (P<0.05) number of mounts per ejaculation and a higher frequency (P<0.05) to sniff, approach, and vocalize a doe with estrous status. This was coincided with a higher (P<0.05) level of plasma testosterone (8-10.1 ng/mL) and the best semen quality (semen index: 744-989?106/mL) and quantity (semen volume: 1.1-1.2 mL per ejaculate), higher testis length (13.3- 14.7 cm) and width (6.0-6.1 cm) and scrotal circumference (32.2-35.5 cm). It is concluded that, in Merghoz bucks, the seasonal pattern of DMI and reproductive activity may be attributed to each other as well as photoperiod. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Factor XIII (FXIII) consists of the A and B subunits (FXIII-A and FXIII-B) and stabilizes fibrin clots. Defects in either the FXIII-A or FXIII-B gene lead to congenital FXIII deficiency, which manifests a life-long haemorrhagic tendency. Thus, prophylactic FXIII replacement therapy is recommended. To establish a management plan for a 30-year-old male patient with 'indefinite' FXIII deficiency (<40% of the normal FXIII), he was characterized by state-of-the-art techniques as guided by the FXIII/Fibrinogen subcommittee of ISTH/ SSC. FXIII activity turned out to be virtually undetectable by three functional assays. Four immunological assays detected essentially no FXIII protein, FXIII-A antigen, and A2B2 antigen, but normal FXIII-B antigen. Accordingly, he was diagnosed as a 'severe' FXIII-A deficiency case. He had no anti-FXIII antibodies, because a 1:1 cross-mixing test (ammonia release assay) and a five-step mixing test (amine incorporation assay) between his plasma and normal plasma demonstrated deficiency patterns. Furthermore, a dosing test using plasma-derived FXIII concentrates revealed its normal recovery. DNA sequencing analysis identified two novel mutations, W187 X & G273 V, in the F13A gene. Genetic analyses confirmed that he was a compound heterozygote and his mother and sister were heterozygotes of either one of these mutations, indicating the hereditary nature of this disorder. Molecular modelling predicted that the G273 V mutation would cause clashes with the surrounding residues in the core domain of FXIII-A, and ultimately would result in the instability of the mutant molecule. Detailed characterization of 'indefinite' FXIII deficiency made it possible to make its definite diagnosis and best management plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiments were conducted to investigate (1) ovarian follicular growth, timing of ovulation and associated endocrine changes (progesterone, estrogen, and LH) in cycling, and (2) efficacy in terms of pregnancy rate in cycling and anestrus Murrah buffaloes subjected to the Estradoublesynch protocol (prostaglandin F2α [PGF2α] 0, GnRH 2, PGF2α 9, estradiol benzoate, EB 10). Twelve cycling buffaloes were subjected to the Estradoublesynch protocol and observed for ovulation, follicle size, and endocrine changes after EB treatment. Ovulation occurred in 12 of 12 buffaloes (100%) at 48.5 ± 1.6 hours (range, 38.0–56.0) after EB treatment. Plasma LH, total estrogen, and progesterone concentrations were determined in intensive blood samples collected after EB treatment. Peak LH concentration of 34.2 ± 7.7 ng/mL (range, 17.8–178.5) occurred at 18.3 ± 0.8 hours (range, 14.0–22.0) after EB treatment. Peak total estrogen of 50.8 ± 6.9 pg/mL (range, 32.3–82.7) occurred 5.7 ± 1.0 hours (range, 2.0–14.0) after EB treatment. Follicle size was gradually increased from second PGF2α injection (9.7 ± 0.3 mm; range, 8.0–12.0) until ovulation was detected (12.9 ± 0.4 mm; range, 11.0–15.0). Fourteen cycling and 11 anestrus buffaloes were subjected to the Estradoublesynch protocol, with timed artificial insemination (TAI) 48 and 60 hours after EB treatment, and 58 cycling buffaloes were inseminated after spontaneous estrus (control group). Pregnancy rates were 62% for TAI of cycling buffaloes, 64% for anestrus buffaloes, and 34.5% for control group. Our observations demonstrated that the Estradoublesynch protocol followed by TAI satisfactory enhanced pregnancy rates in both cycling and anestrus buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congenital factor XIII ( FXIII) deficiency is a severe bleeding disorder. We previously identified an Arg260Cys missense mutation and an exon-IV deletion in patients' A subunit genes, F13A. To characterize the molecular/cellular basis of this disease, we expressed a wild type and these mutant A subunits in baby hamster kidney ( BHK) cells. The mutant proteins were expressed less efficiently than the wild type. These mutants gradually decreased inside BHK cells, whereas the wild type remained largely unchanged. The decline/decrease in these mutants was completely blocked/restored by a potent proteasome inhibitor, MG-132. This was consistent with the prediction by molecular modelling that the mutant molecules would lose the native structure of wild-type molecule, leading to their instability and degeneration and ultimately to degradation. These mutants might have significantly altered conformations, resulting in the rapid degradation by the proteasome inside the synthesizing cells, and ultimately leading to FXIII deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sixteen, 18, 19, 19 and 10 constituents were identified in the essential oils of herb, flowers, unripe fruits, ripe fruits and roots of lovage, respectively. In herb's essential oil the main constituents were: α-terpinyl acetate (52.4%), Z-ligustilide (29.7%), β-phellandrene (12.9%). In flower's essential oil the main constituents were: Z-ligustilide (52.4%), β-phellandrene (26.6%) and α-terpinyl acetate (10.4%). β-Phellandrene (47.8%), Z-ligustilide (38.5%) and α-terpinyl acetate (3.6%) were the major components of unripe fruits. In ripe fruits, Z-ligustilide (35.1%), β-phellandrene (34.4%) and α-terpinyl acetate (4.2%) and in roots Z-ligustilide (79.7%), Pentylcyclohexadiene (7.9%), P-allylanisole (7%) and β-phellandrene (2.3%), are found chief constituents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ten female and 10 male Merghoz goats with initial liveweights of 24.02±1.7 and 29.2±1.2kg (mean±s.e.) respectively were used to investigate the effect of naturally changes in photoperiod on hair follicle activity and fibre growth in a 365 day study. The animals were housed in individual pens, under natural day length condition at west of Iran, Kermanshah (34°18′N and 47°3′E and 1420m above sea level). A diet was offered with an estimated concentration of metabolizable energy and crude protein of 7.9MJ and 98.8g/kg DM respectively. Follicular density (FD), percentage of active primary and secondary follicles (PAP and PAS) and ratio of secondary to primary follicles (S/P) were determined from skin biopsies, taken from the right mid-side of the goats every one month. Clean fibre yield and fibre diameter were measured from mid-side patches harvested at the end of every month after morning feeding. Dry matter intake (DMI) and average daily gain (ADG) displayed a substantial seasonal variation. There was a significant effect (p <0.001) of season on PAP and PAS (primary: 98.0, 74.1, 45.9 and 89.0%; secondary: 99.0, 80.9, 70.6 and 92.5%; for summer, autumn, winter and spring, respectively) but, no seasonal differences were observed in FD and S/P. Seasonal differences in clean fibre yield and fibre diameter patterned those of follicle activity. There was a season×sex interaction on both fibre growth rate and fibre diameter. It is concluded that seasonal cycles of feed intake, growth, hair follicle activity and fibre growth may occur in goats. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of repeated administration of hCG on the follicular and luteal charactristics and serum progesterone concentrations in eCG-superovulated Merghoz does. The estrous cycles of 40 adult does were synchronized following a 12-day treatment with intravaginal sponges (Chronogest®), with 1000IU eCG injected 2 days prior to sponge removal. On the day of sponge removal (day 0), the females were randomly assigned to 4 treatments. The first group (h1; n =10), received an i.m. hCG injection (500IU; Pregnyl®) on the day 0. The second group (h2; n =10), received an i.m. hCG (500IU) injection on days 0 and 1, while the third group (h3; n =10) received i.m. hCG (500IU) on days 0–2. Does in the control group (n =10) did not receive any hCG treatment. Blood samples were taken on days 0, 1, 2, 5 and 8 and analysed for serum progesterone (P4) concentrations. Premature luteal regression was considered to have occurred if the P4 concentrations declined to less than 1ng/mL by day 8 following sponge removal. On day 8 goats were slaughtered and ovaries recovered for evaluation. In each case the CL''s were counted and classified according to their appearance – as normal or as regressing. According to the serum P4 concentration on day 8, 42.8% (3/7), 0% (0/8), 0% (0/7) and 0% (0/6) of the goats underwent premature luteal regression in the control, h1, h2 and h3 groups, respectively. The control group was the only group in which there was a significant increase in the number of regressing CL''s on day 8 (5.1±1.5; P <0.05). The characteristics of the CL''s, including the mean diameter and weight was greater (P <0.05) in the h2 and h3 groups, compared to the control group (10.9±0.7, 11.0±0.9 vs. 7.9±1.1mm and 640.0±101.4, 691.7±111.7 vs. 294.3±143.7mg, respectively). No differences (P <0.05) in the number of large follicles present on the ovaries were recorded on day 8 between the groups. However, the diameter of the large follicles present on the ovaries on day 8 was greater (P <0.05) in goats in the h2 and the h3 groups, compared to the control (15.3±0.6 and 12.9±0.3 vs. 8.6±1.7mm, respectively; P <0.05). The serum P4 concentrations were higher in the h2 and the h3 groups than in the control group on days 2 and 8. The serum P4 concentrations on day 8 also recorded a positive correlation with the normal CL''s, CL diameter and CL weight (P <0.001). These results indicate that the repeated administration of hCG post-sponge removal presumably prevents premature luteal regression and improves luteal function in goats after eCG-superovulatory treatment. However, neither the number of persistent follicles nor the diameter of the persistent follicles was reduced. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The aims of the present study were to evaluate if seasonality in semen characteristics and plasma testosterone concentrations exist in Markhoz male goats. Ten Markhoz (Angora) bucks were housed and fed according to standard recognized practices. During the observation period, semen was collected monthly with the aid of an electro-ejaculator and examined microscopically immediately after collection. Physical parameters of semen and the semen index were recorded. Blood samples were also taken monthly throughout the observation period and the plasma testosterone concentration monitored. Bucks demonstrated a higher semen quality (P <0.05) in autumn and summer (semen index of 965×106 and 752×106 ml−1, respectively), compared to spring and winter (semen index of 606×106 and 512×106, respectively). This coincided with a higher (P <0.05) plasma testosterone concentration in autumn and summer (8.1 and 10.1ngml−1, respectively), compared to that obtained in spring (3.0ngml−1) and winter (2.5ngml−1). During autumn and summer, the ejaculate volume (average of 1.2 and 1.0ml), sperm output (1159×106 and 1005×106 spermml−1), sperm mass motility (4.2 and 4.3), sperm progressive motility (83.9 and 82.0%) and percentage live sperm (90.7 and 88.2%, respectively) of the bucks were higher (P <0.05) than in the spring (0.6ml, 880×106 spermml−1, 3.3, 71.5% and 80.2%) and winter (0.7ml, 863×106 spermml−1, 4.0, 71.5% and 84.9%, respectively). During autumn and summer, the percentage of sperm abnormalities (5.0 and 9.2%) was significantly lower than that in spring (12.9%) and winter (11.2%). The semen pH was slightly alkaline being significantly (P <0.05) lower in the autumn (7.1) than in spring (7.3). Data showed season of the year to influence all semen parameters evaluated—indicating that optimal buck performance may be obtained in late summer and autumn. It can thus be said that Markhoz bucks have distinct seasonal spermatogenic activity, with poorer semen characteristics being recorded during winter and spring. This may be a critical obstacle when implementing an intensive breeding system of three kidding seasons in 2 years, with natural mating being implemented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper a new battery thermal management system (BTMS) is proposed, where an internal cooling channel carrying water through the battery cells is integrated to a cell. A two-dimensional (2-D) thermal model is developed and validated against experimental data from literature for a 53 A h lithium-ion battery (LIB) cell. The model is then adapted to reflect the installation of an internal cooling channel. The influence of different parameters such as the channel size, the channel location, and the inlet flow velocity on the thermal performance of the LIB cell is investigated. The results show that using optimal channel size with combination of best channel location as well as inlet velocity reduces the peak temperature by 26% and 20% for 3 C and 5 C discharge rates, respectively. Consequently, the average cell temperature is reduced by 24% for a 3 C discharge rate, and 15% for a 5 C discharge rate. • New method of internal cooling of large format pouch cells is proposed. • New method is most effective in removing hotspots from lithium-ion battery cells. • Cell average temperature is reduced by 15–24% at 3C and 5C discharge rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have investigated the electronic and optical properties of (Sr1-xCax)2IrO4 (x=0-0.375) and (Sr1-yBay)2IrO4 (y=0-0.375) epitaxial thin films, in which the bandwidth is systematically tuned via chemical substitutions of Sr ions by Ca and Ba. Transport measurements indicate that the thin-film series exhibits insulating behavior, similar to the Jeff=1/2 spin-orbit Mott insulator Sr2IrO4. As the average A-site ionic radius increases from (Sr1-xCax)2IrO4 to (Sr1-yBay)2IrO4, optical conductivity spectra in the near-infrared region shift to lower energies, which cannot be explained by the simple picture of well-separated Jeff=1/2 and Jeff=3/2 bands. We suggest that the two-peak-like optical conductivity spectra of the layered iridates originates from the overlap between the optically forbidden spin-orbit exciton and the intersite optical transitions within the Jeff=1/2 band. Our experimental results are consistent with this interpretation as implemented by a multiorbital Hubbard model calculation: namely, incorporating a strong Fano-like coupling between the spin-orbit exciton and intersite d-d transitions within the Jeff=1/2 band. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The orientation dependence of the shape memory responses of [001], [011] and [111]-oriented Ni 51 Ti 49 single crystals and Ni 50.8 Ti 49.2 polycrystals are systematically studied in compression. Thermal cycling under constant stress and superelasticity experiments were conducted on both homogenized and aged (1.5 h at 500 °C) samples to understand the effects of precipitation on their shape memory behavior. It has been found that recoverable strain, temperature and stress hysteresis, Classius-Clapeyron slopes, and critical stress for plastic deformation are highly orientation dependent. The recoverable strains were 3, 2.65 and 2.38% under 400 MPa in [001], [011] and [111] orientations, respectively. After aging, the recoverable strains were 3.19, 2.78 and 2.11% under 400 MPa in [001], [011] and [111] orientations, respectively. Above 400 MPa, irrecoverable strain increased considerably for [011] and [111]-oriented samples. In [001] orientation, very narrow temperature hysteresis of 10 °C, recoverable strain of 3.03% and total strain of 3.65% were observed under ultra high compressive stress level of 1500 MPa. Moreover, [001] orientation showed perfect superelasticity with total strain of 7% and a large superelastic window (∆T=140 °C). The transformation temperatures are lower in homogenized samples than the aged samples due to decreased Ni-concentration in matrix by the formation of Ni-rich precipitates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted under Ahvaz, Iran environmental condition during 2012 and 2013 growing seasons in order to investigate the influence of foliar application of potassium on some physiological and biochemical characteristics of three olive cultivars including ‘Mission', ‘Koroneiki' and ‘Dezfuli'. Potassium sulfate in different concentrations of 0, 1, and 2 g l-1 was sprayed twice on selected mature 10 year old trees; at 50 and 65 days after full bloom. Potassium sprays increased leaf chlorophyll content of all cultivars, leaf potassium content in ‘Mission' and ‘Koroneiki' cvs., fruit anthocyanin concentration of ‘Dezfuli' in two crop seasons. However, K treatments had no significant effect on leaf N and P content, fruit K and P content in all studied cultivars. Fruit soluble carbohydrates increased by foliar application of potassium in ‘Koroneiki' and ‘Dezfuli' cultivars in the second year of study. Stem water potential and leaf stomatal conductance were significantly affected by cultivar and K treatments during the two years. Our findings showed that foliar application of potassium resulted in the decrease of stomatal conductance of ‘Koroneiki' and ‘Dezfuli' in two crop seasons. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the studied cultivars differently respond to K treatments during the two crop seasons and foliar potassium application could have a positive impact on leaf chlorophyll, leaf potassium, fruit soluble carbohydrates and fruit anthocyanins in olive cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of heat treatment on the shape memory characteristics of a polycrystalline Ni 50.3 Ti 29.7 Hf 20 alloy were studied via thermal cycling under stress and isothermal stress cycling experiments in tension. It was revealed that transformation temperatures could be increased above 100 °C with aging at temperature above 500 °C and in particular were stabilized against stress-free thermal cycling after aging at 500 °C. Recoverable strain of ~ 5% was observed for the as-extruded samples and decreased to ~ 4% after aging due to the formation of non-transformable precipitates. The aged alloys demonstrated near perfect shape memory effect under tensile stresses as high as 700 MPa and perfect superelasticity at temperatures up to 230 °C. Finally, the tension-compression asymmetry observed in NiTiHf alloys was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One hundred female Markhoz goats (42±5 kg) were used to investigate the 'male effect' on estrous synchronization and reproductive characteristics of female goat during the breeding season. This was carried out in three separate experiments. In the first experiment, forty female goats were used in 4 groups with different distance from the male goats (i.e. source of pheromone secretion); A1 (1 meter), A2 (12.5 meters), A3 (25 meters) and A4 (50 meters). In the second experiment, thirty female goats were synchronized using CIDR in three groups in the presence or absence of male goats; B1 (the presence of male goat with females during synchronization), B2 (sudden introducing of male goat to females goat during the time of removal of CIDR) and B3 (no male goat during synchronization). In the third experiment, thirty female goats were used in 3 groups; C1 (male goat permanently was presented near to the females during the experiment), C2 (sudden introducing of male to females) and D or control group (no male before mating). The results showed the effect of male goat on estrous synchronization, causing reproductive cycles in early breeding season and increasing incidence of estrous (P<0.05). The male effect improved fertility and kidding rates (P<0.05). Male effect was more pronounced when the distance of unlike sexes decreased (P<0.01). Male effect was also more effective, with sudden introducing of male to female goat (P<0.01). The male effect was more efficient when compared with synchronized female by CIDR in onset of estrous (P<0.05), and increased serum estrogen concentration in the follicular phase (P<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Autoimmune haemophilia-like disease (or haemorrha-philia) due to anti-factor XIII (FXIII; F13 to avoid confusion with FVIII or FXII) antibodies (termed AH13) is a severe bleeding disorder. Although AH13 is thought to be rare, 'the number of its diagnosed patients' has recently increased in Japan. However, its prevalence remains unknown. Aim To improve understanding of this disease, we examined and diagnosed 32 'new' Japanese patients with AH13. Methods The presence of antibodies against F13-A subunit and/or F13-B subunit was confirmed by using a dot blot test and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Results Most of our patients had autoantibodies against the F13-A subunit (88%). A predominance of men (59%) was observed. The mean age and residual F13 activity of our AH13 cohort were 71.7 years and 10.5% of normal, respectively, and 53% of cases were idiopathic. Autoimmune disorders and malignancies were the leading underlying disease (both 16%). Intramuscular and subcutaneous bleeding were the leading symptoms (both 72%). Most of our patients were treated with F13 concentrates (72%) to arrest bleeding and with prednisolone (81%) to eradicate anti-F13 autoantibodies. Cyclophosphamide and rituximab (both 25%) were also administered. The mortality of AH13 was high (22%), and haemorrhage was the major cause of death (71%). Moreover, 13% of our AH13 patients were diagnosed after haemorrhagic death. Conclusion Physicians/haematologists must raise the awareness of AH13 as a life-threatening disease. This report represents the only experience of a nationwide survey, and may contribute to a diagnosis on potentially overlooked non-Japanese AH13 patients in other countries in the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work aimed to investigate the effect of nutrition supplementation on skin follicle activity and wool growth rate in male and female Sanjabi lambs during the autumn and winter seasons, when the natural daylength is declining and being shortest. Twenty male (control and male (CM), n = 10; treatment and male (TM), n = 10) and 20 female (control and female (CF), n = 10; treatment and female (TF), n = 10) Sanjabi lambs were housed in individual pens, under natural daylength condition at west of Iran, Kermanshah (34°18′ N and 47°3′ E and 1420 m above sea level). Lambs in control groups received a diet consisting of 80% alfalfa and 20% concentrate, providing 2.18 Mcal and 130.0 g per kg DM ME energy and crude protein, respectively. In treatment groups, lambs were fed a diet consisting of 65% alfalfa and 35% concentrate, providing 2.34 Mcal and 160.0 g per kg DM ME energy and crude protein, respectively. Raw and clean fiber growth rates and fiber diameter were measured from left mid-side patches harvested at the end of every month. Percentage of active primary and secondary follicles (PAP and PAS), follicular density (FD) and the ratio of secondary to primary follicles ( S / P ) were measured from skin biopsies, taken from the right mid-side of the lambs in monthly intervals. PAP and PAS in autumn were significantly ( p < 0.01) higher than those observed in winter season. There was a positive effect of feeding supplementation on both PAP and PAS but, similar values for S / P ratio and FD were observed in control and treatment groups. All hair follicle parameters viz. PAP, PAS, S / P ratios and FD were significantly greater in females compared to male lambs. The rate of wool growth was significantly lower in winter compared to autumn season, although similar fiber diameter was recorded in two seasons. Male lambs compared to females had greater body weight, DMI and the rate of wool growth. It is concluded that the fiber follicle activity and therefore wool growth in Sanjabi lambs is mainly under influence of nutrition, nonetheless little monthly fluctuation in follicle activity and fiber growth and diameter was observed. Likewise, there was a different pattern of wool production in male and female Sanjabi lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the effects of organic and inorganic selenium (Se) supplementation during late pregnancy on serum Se status, colostrum, performance and passive immunity in Merghoz goats in Iran. Thirty Merghoz goats (30 ± 3 kg) were given the same basal diet containing 0.11 mg Se/kg DM and were randomly allocated to one of three dietary treatments in a randomised complete block design. Four weeks before the expected kidding, the basal diets were supplemented with 0 (control), 0.3 mg Se/head.day in the form of L-selenomethionin (Se-Met) and 0.3 mg Se/head.day in the form of sodium selenite. Blood samples were collected from the goats in three phases: (1) a couple of days before starting the supplementation; (2) before the expected kidding; and (3) on the day of kidding. Blood samples were also taken from the newborn kids from the jugular vein at birth and 7 days of age. The serum Se and immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrations, the white blood cells (WBC) and differential leukocyte counts were measured. The reproductive parameters such as the number of kids born per kidding, total weight of kids born per goat mating, the pregnancy period and kid birthweights were determined. The results indicated that the serum Se concentration increased in supplemented goats compared with controls. The Se concentrations also significantly increased in the colostrum of treated goats (P < 0.05). Similarly, serum Se concentrations in kids of treated goats were increased at birth. On the other hand, colostrum and daily milk production were not affected by Se supplementation. Likewise, the change in the mean serum IgG levels was not different among goats and kids (P > 0.05). However, the WBC, neutrophil and lymphocyte counts were higher in the kids of goats in the Se-Met group compared with the control group on the day of birth and 7 days of age (P < 0.05). It seemed that Se-Met could have influenced the lamb's immunity at birth and 7 days of age. By contrast, selenite has not affected the performance and passive immunity in Merghoz goats. Organic and inorganic Se supplementation would be useful for producers who raise animals in Se-deficient regions. There is higher efficiency of L-selenomethionin (Se-Met) than the sodium selenite (SS) supplement. The kids with adequate levels of Se obtain more maternal antibodies in colostrum. Both Se supplementations in pregnant goats improved Se status of goats and the newborn kids. The Se-Met supplement could have influenced passive immunity of kids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Optimisation of PCM based cooling coupled with liquid cooling system. • System weight and consumption of different configurations is evaluated. • Suggesting a 2-sided cold plates hybrid system for BTMS of pouch cells. • Suggested hybrid BTMS can withstand cell-to-cell variation of battery cells. In this paper, a novel design for hybrid battery thermal management systems (BTMS) is proposed and evaluated from the economic and engineering perspectives. Numerical models are compared with phase change materials (PCM) BTMS. Further, the suggested hybrid cooling system's thermal performance at the pack level is investigated considering cell-to-cell variation. A three-dimensional thermal model is used for the numerical simulation of the battery cooling system. The probability distributions is utilised for the cell-to-cell variations of a 168-cell battery pack. Results shows that for a 53 Ah lithium-ion battery (LIB) under a 5 C discharge rate, a hybrid cooling system with two-sided cold plates can reduce the maximum temperature from ∼ 64 ∘ C to 46.3 ∘ C with acceptable system weight and power consumption, which is used for further pack level simulation. It is concluded that the two-sided cold plate hybrid design system can manage the maximum average temperature as well as temperature difference of cells in the desirable range at extreme cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The present study aims to determine the effect of dietary Se supplement on Merghoz goats at the last stage of gestation on serum Se, Cu, Zn and Fe status of goats and their kids. Thirty Merghoz does (30±3kg) were fed the same basal diet containing 0.11mgSekg−1 DM and randomly assigned to one of three dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design. Three weeks before the expected kidding, the basal diet was supplemented with 0 (control) or 0.3mgSehead−1 d−1 in the form of l-selenomethionin (Se-Met) and 0.3mgSehead−1 d−1 in the form of sodium selenite (SS). Blood samples were collected from the does three weeks before the expected kidding and on the kidding day. Blood samples of newborn kids were also taken from the jugular vein at birth and 7 days of age. The results indicated that the serum concentration of Se increased in supplemented does compared with the control ones. The selenium concentration was also significantly increased in colostrum of treated does (P <0.05). There was no significant difference between Se sources on the Se status although there was higher efficiency of Se-Met than sodium selenite supplement. The serum concentration of copper increased in supplemented doses, which was concomitant with a reduction in Zn concentration in serum and colostrums. It seems that an increase in serum concentration of Cu at the end of pregnancy in goats given Se supplement could disturb the Zn:Cu ratios which in turn lead to Zn reduction. Serum Se, Cu and Fe concentrations of kids of treated doses increased at birth and first week of age, while the serum concentration of Zn decreased in newborn kids. It seemed that there was a positive correlation between serum Se concentration with Cu and Fe levels and also a negative correlation between Se and Zn in treated dose (P <0.05). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Photoperiod is known to be important in regulating the pattern of wool growth in sheep. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of natural changes in photoperiod on live weight, skin follicle activity and fiber characteristics of grazing Kermani sheep in the south of Iran, Jiroft (28° 40′ N and 57° 44′ E, elevation 650 m). Ten male and 10 female Kermani sheep with initial live weights of 31.9 ± 0.8 and 30.7 ± 0.9 kg (mean ± s.e.) respectively, were used in a 365 day study. Percentage of active primary (PAP) and percentage of active secondary (PAS) follicles, ratio of secondary to primary follicles (S/P) and follicle density (FD) were measured in skin samples, taken from the right mid-side of the animals at monthly intervals. Greasy and clean wool growth rates and fibre diameter were determined from patch samples (10 cm × 10 cm) harvested at the end of every month. The value for PAP was greatest (p < 0.05) in summer and spring and lowest (p < 0.05) in winter (98.2 ± 0.8, 84.1 ± 0.9, 75.6 ± 0.8 and 97.0 ± 1.1% for summer, autumn, winter and spring, respectively); seasonal differences in PAS were similar (99.3 ± 0.8, 88.5 ± 0.7, 82.9 ± 0.8 and 98.9 ± 0.7% for summer, autumn, winter and spring, respectively). Clean wool growth rate was greatest (p < 0.001) in summer and spring, and lowest (p < 0.001) in winter (0.7 ± 0.03, 0.4 ± 0.04, 0.3 ± 0.01 and 0.7 ± 0.05 mg/cm 2 /day for summer, autumn, winter and spring, respectively). Fibre diameter was greatest in spring (34.8 ± 0.3 μm) and lowest in winter (29.1 ± 0.2 μm). The values for wool growth rates and fibre diameter were greater (p < 0.05) in male rather than those observed in female sheep. Fibre and skin follicle characteristics were not affected by a season × sex interaction. These results demonstrated that there is a seasonal pattern in fibre follicles activity and wool growth in grazing Kermani sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report that epitaxial Sr2IrO4 thin-films can be selectively grown using pulsed laser deposition (PLD). Due to the competition between the Ruddlesden-Popper phases of strontium iridates (Srn+1IrnO3n+1), conventional PLD methods often result in mixed phases of Sr2IrO4 (n=1), Sr3Ir2O7 (n=2), and SrIrO3 (n=∞). We have discovered that reduced PLD plume dimensions and slow deposition rates are the key for stabilizing pure Sr2IrO4 phase thin-films, identified by realtime in-situ monitoring of their optical spectra. The slow film deposition results in a thermodynamically stable TiO2\\SrO\IrO2\SrO\SrO configuration at an interface rather than TiO2\\SrO\SrO\IrO2\SrO between a TiO2-terminated SrTiO3 substrate and a Sr2IrO4 thin film, which is consistent with other layered oxides grown by molecular beam epitaxy. Our approach provides an effective method for using PLD to achieve pure phase thin-films of layered materials that are susceptible to several energetically competing phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal electrodes are a universal element of all electronic devices. Conducting SrRuO3 (SRO) epitaxial thin films have been extensively used as electrodes in complex-oxide heterostructures due to good lattice mismatches with perovskite substrates. However, when compared to SRO single crystals, SRO thin films have shown reduced conductivity and Curie temperatures (TC), which can lead to higher Joule heating and energy loss in the devices. Here, we report that high-quality SRO thin films can be synthesized by controlling the plume dynamics and growth rate of pulsed laser epitaxy (PLE) with real-time optical spectroscopic monitoring. The SRO thin films grown under the kinetically controlled conditions, down to ca. 16 nm in thickness, exhibit both enhanced conductivity and TC as compared to bulk values, due to their improved stoichiometry and a strain-mediated increase of the bandwidth of Ru 4d electrons. This result provides a direction for enhancing the physical properties of PLE-grown thin films and paves a way to improved device applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented regarding the spontaneous splenic rupture associated by hepatic arterial dissection in a patient with autoimmune haemorrhaphilia caused by anti-factor XIII antibodies.

The shape memory properties of solutionized and aged Ni-rich Ni 50.3 Ti 29.7 Hf 20 single crystals were investigated along the [0 0 1], [0 1 1] and [1 1 1] orientations in compression. The effects of crystal orientation and aging temperature on the transformation strain, thermal hysteresis and Clausius–Clapeyron (CC) relation were determined. Aging at 550 °C for 3 h introduced coherent 10–20 nm precipitates in the matrix, which substantially improved the shape memory and mechanical properties of the Ni 50.3 Ti 29.7 Hf 20 crystals. [0 0 1]-oriented single crystals showed high dimensional stability under stress levels as high as 1500 MPa in both the solutionized and aged conditions, but with transformation strains of <2%. Thermal treatments can be used to tailor the transformation temperatures over a wide range with the martensite start temperature varying from −25 °C in the solutionized case to 123 °C by aging at 650 °C for 3 h. Compared to the solutionized condition, thermal hysteresis was reduced after aging at 550 °C/3 h, but increased with aging at 650 °C. Perfect superelasticity with recoverable strain of >4% was observed for solutionized and 550 °C/3 h aged single crystals along the [0 1 1] and [1 1 1] orientations, and general superelastic behavior was observed over a wide temperature range. In contrast, aged [0 0 1]-oriented single crystals have a very high CC slope, in the range of 30–40 MPa °C −1 , which results in a lack of superelasticity. Theoretical transformation strains were calculated by using the energy minimization method and lattice deformation theory. The calculated transformation strains were higher than the experimentally observed strains since the calculated strains could not capture the formation of martensite plates with (0 0 1) compound twins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

. Acquired factor XIII (FXIII) deficiency due to an autoantibody against FXIII is a very rare, yet potentially life-threatening bleeding disorder. As the standard coagulation tests (prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time) are normal, the specialized tests are required to make an accurate diagnosis. Here, we report a case of acquired FXIII deficiency with severe bleeding symptoms. A 75-year-old man was referred to our hospital because of severe bleeding tendency after a tooth extraction. Laboratory findings showed that routine coagulation studies were normal, but factor XIII (FXIII) activity was low (3%). The presence of FXIII inhibitor was detected with dot blotting studies. Although the bleeding tendency was very severe, it was successfully controlled by infusion of FXIII concentrates combined with immunosuppressive treatment (oral prednisolone). Fibrin cross-linking study showed the significant delay of the γ-chain dimer and α-chain polymer formation. Western blotting revealed the marked decrease in FXIII-A level. The mixing study of FXIII activity measured using amine-incorporation assay showed the incomplete inhibition pattern. There seems to be little agreement as to the treatment strategy of acquired FXIII deficiency. In this patient, the use of FXIII concentrates was very useful in the initial treatment of bleeding symptom. The use of steroids was also effective in increasing FXIII activity without any serious complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]