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Maintaining vacuum integrity for the semiconductor manufacturing processes is extremely important to improve semiconductor fab productivity. The expensive machinery and the enormous costs of production downtime require reliable sealing systems which are designed to operate the longest possible preventative maintenance (PM) cycles. Being able to predict the lifetime of the sealing systems can help determine the optimum maintenance periods and hence increase profitability in costly wafer processing. The present contribution describes a finite element method to predict the lifetime of vacuum sealing systems limited by aging effects of the elastomer. Several different applications are considered including isothermal and non-isothermal conditions. Furthermore, homogeneous and inhomogeneous temperature fields are analyzed. Finally, the model predictions are compared to experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waterfowl-specific mycoplasmas cause significant economic losses worldwide. However, only limited resources are available for the specific detection of three such bacteria, Mycoplasma anatis, M. anseris and M. cloacale. We developed species-specific TaqMan assays and tested their reliability across 20 strains of the respective target species as well as 84 non-target avian bacterial strains. Furthermore, we analysed 32 clinical DNA samples and compared the results with those of previously published conventional PCRs. The TaqMan assays showed 100% specificity and very high sensitivity, enabling the detection of target DNA as low as either 10 or 100 copies/μl concentration, depending on the assay. Importantly, we found that while the here developed TaqMan assays are reliable for species-specific detection of M. anatis, the previously published conventional PCR assay may give false positive results. In conclusion, the new assays are reliable, sensitive and suitable for clinical diagnostics of the target species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Endogenous habits can explain major asset pricing puzzles. • Endogenous habits allow to study cooperative and non-cooperative setups. • The optimality conditions of the non - cooperative setting are similar to models that consider agents with exogenous habit levels. • Although the size of the equity premia and the risk-free rate are similar in both settings, the consumption allocations are more even in the cooperative situation. We study a two-agent equilibrium model with two goods where we interpret the agents as countries. We analyze the effect of an endogenous habit specification where each country benchmarks its consumption decision against the decision of the other country. We show that endogenous habits can generate high equity premia and low interest rates. Our framework allows to study setups where agents cooperate or do not cooperate. The optimality conditions of the non-cooperative setting are similar to models that consider agents with exogenous habit levels. Although the size of the equity premia and the risk-free rate are of the same order of magnitude in both settings, the consumption allocations are more even in the cooperative situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fluid dynamics of aerodynamic force control in insects depends on how oscillating wings interact with the surrounding air. The resulting flow structures are shaped by the flow induced by the wing's instantaneous motion but also on flow components resulting from force production in previous wing strokes and the motion of other wings flapping in close proximity. In four-winged insects such as damsel- and dragonflies, the flow over the hindwings is affected by the forewing downwash. In these animals, a phase-shift between the stroke cycles of forewing and hindwing modulates aerodynamic performance of the hindwing via leading edge vortex destruction, changes in local flow condition and the wake capture effect. This review is engaged in the significance of wing-wake interference for force control, showing that in damselfly model wings the strength of phase-dependent force modulation critically depends on the vertical spacing between forewing and hindwing stroke planes and the aspect ratio of both wings. We conclude that damsel- and dragonflies reach maximum steering capacity for body posture control when forewings and hindwings flap in close proximity and have similar length. The latter findings are of significance for the evolution and diversification of insect wings because they might explain why forewings and hindwings are little different in the order Odonatoptera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study which observed the growth of indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs)/indium phosphide (InP) for applications in laser-diode arrays by metalorganic vapor-phase epitaxy. Main growth features of the semiconductor; Thickness of the InP layers; Evaluation of the growth of InP and InGaAs on InP substrates.

Calcium sulfates play a key role in both industrial processes and the global sulfur cycle. In arid to hyper-arid planetary surface environments, they can be used to assess the availability of water to the environment. Yet, the processes through which calcium sulfate minerals (i.e. gypsum, bassanite, anhydrite) and the anhydrous γ-CaSO 4 form and transform remain insufficiently understood. Especially the dissolution-reprecipitation reaction from gypsum to anhydrite has to this date been achieved in the laboratory only under very specific conditions. Recent evidence suggests the importance of solution flow as opposed to batch reactions in aiding the precipitation of anhydrite at room temperature. Our own results, however, clearly show, that solution flow alone cannot be the sole catalyst. In light of the recent abundance of research towards the nucleation and crystallization of calcium sulfates, we present this review in an attempt to summarize and contextualize these new results and to identify necessary directions for further research with focus on conditions of arid and hyper-arid planetary environments. • We review recent research into the crystallization of calcium sulfates. • We discuss the recent literature in the context of planetary surface environments. • We show that brine flow alone does not aid in the formation of anhydrite. • We present possible routs for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ornithobacterium rhinotrachealeis a widely distributed rod-shaped Gram-negative bacterium that infects several avian species including chickens and turkeys. It is associated with respiratory signs, growth retardation, mortality, and reduced egg production, thus causing severe economic losses to the poultry industries. In this study, 37 field isolates ofO. rhinotracheale, collected from various locations in Hungary between 1997 and 2015, were identified and characterized by the analysis of partial 16S rRNA gene sequences, enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC)-PCR, and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) PCR assays with the OPG11, OPH19, and M13 primers. Most of the field isolates were serotype A, one was serotype B, and four were serotype D. One isolate could not be typed with antisera against serotypes A–E. In a phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA sequences, the isolates formed two clusters. Thirteen distinct patterns were identified with ERIC-PCR, and the RAPD assay with the M13 primer assigned the isolates to 10 different patterns. The other two RAPD assays were unsuitable for distinguishing and grouping the isolates. Neither ERIC type nor RAPD pattern correlated with the place or year of isolation. However, the strains isolated from chickens were more heterogeneous on ERIC-PCR than the isolates recovered from turkeys. In this study, ERIC-PCR was the most discriminatory method for investigating the genetic diversity ofO. rhinotrachealeisolates. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Mycoplasma anserisalpingitidis is a waterfowl colonizing mycoplasma, mainly found in geese. In this study, we compared the whole genomes of five atypical M. anserisalpingitidis strains originating from China, Vietnam and Hungary, with the rest of the collection. Common methods used in the description of species are genomic analyses like the analysis of 16 S - intergenic transcribed spacer (ITS) - 23 S rRNA, of housekeeping genes, of the average nucleotide identity (ANI) and average amino acid identity (AAI) and phenotypic analyses like testing the growth inhibition and the growth parameters of the strains. The atypical strains showed notable genomic differences in all of the genetic analyses: on average ANI and AAI 95% (M. anserisalpingitidis ANI Minimum: 92.45, Maximum: 95.10; AAI Minimum: 93.34, Maximum: 96.37). The atypical strains formed a separate branch among the M. anserisalpingitidis strains in all phylogenetic studies. The small genome size and possibly higher mutation rate of the M. anserisalpingitidis species likely contributed to the observed genetic difference. Based on genetic analyses, the studied strains clearly represent a new genotype of M. anserisalpingitidis. The atypical strains showed slower growth in the medium containing fructose and three of the atypical strains showed diminished growth in the inhibition test. However, no definitive geno-phenotype associations were found regarding the fructose metabolism pathway in the atypical strains. The atypical strains are potentially at an early stage of speciation. • Mycoplasma anserisalpingitidis shows a high genomic diversity among strains. • Five atypical M. anserisalpingitidis strains showed significant genomic difference. • The difference was also present on the phenotypic level. • The atypical strains are on the border of what could be a new species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to a lack of spatial–temporal consistency, the current generation of multi-temporal land cover products is subject to significant error propagation in change detection results. To address the evolving needs of land change science, the next generation of land cover products must be derived from new classification methods that are designed specifically for multi-temporal land cover mapping. In this paper, a next generation classifier is proposed that fully exploits contextual information by combining results born from the machine learning paradigm in remote sensing with domain knowledge from multi-temporal land cover mapping. This classifier, the Spatial–Temporal Markovian Support Vector Classifier, exhibits an entirely new level of accuracy of change detection when evaluated for the classification of seven Landsat images from an Appalachian Ohio study area. It exceeds previous leading techniques employing machine learning kernel methods and Markov Random Field models of image context on all accuracy metrics for the creation of a spatial–temporally consistent land cover product. It owes its performance to the greatly improved decision-making about contextual information afforded by the extension and integration of these previous techniques. With such a classifier, substantially more accurate and spatial–temporally consistent multi-temporal land cover products are possible that are suitable for the detailed study of land cover change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Honey bees are important model systems for the investigation of learning and memory and for a better understanding of the neuronal basics of brain function. Honey bees also possess a rich repertoire of tones and sounds, from queen piping and quacking to worker hissing and buzzing. In this study, we tested whether the worker bees’ sounds can be used as a measure of learning. We therefore conditioned honey bees aversively to odours in a walking arena and recorded both their sound production and their movement. Bees were presented with two odours, one of which was paired with an electric shock. Initially, the bees did not produce any sound upon odour presentation, but responded to the electric shock with a strong hissing response. After learning, many bees hissed at the presentation of the learned odour, while fewer bees hissed upon presentation of another odour. We also found that hissing and movement away from the conditioned odour are independent behaviours that can co-occur but do not necessarily do so. Our data suggest that hissing can be used as a readout for learning after olfactory conditioning, but that there are large individual differences between bees concerning their hissing reaction. The basis for this variability and the possible ecological relevance of the bees’ hissing remain to be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bordetella bronchiseptica is a widespread pathogen, with a broad host range, occasionally including humans. Diverse virulence factors (adhesins, toxins) allow its adaptation to its host, but this property of the adenylate cyclase ( cyaA) toxin is not well understood. In this study, we analyzed the repeats-in-toxin domain of B. bronchiseptica cyaA with PCR, followed by restriction fragment length analysis. Of ninety-two B. bronchiseptica strains collected from different hosts and geographic regions, 72 (78.3 %) carried cyaA and four RFLP types (A-D) were established using NarI and SalI. However, in 20 strains, cyaA was replaced with a peptide transport protein operon. A phylogenetic tree based on partial nucleotide sequences of cyaA revealed that group 2 contains strains of specifically human origin, whereas subgroup 1a contains all but one of the strains from pigs. The human strains showed many PCR-RFLP and sequence variants, confirming the clonal population structure of B. bronchiseptica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The zoonotic impact of Pasteurella species in human wounds caused by cats and dogs has increased recently. In this study, the effectiveness of the Biolog Microstation ID System (Biolog, Hayward, CA) for the identification of certain species of Pasteurella sensu stricto was analysed. Thirty-eight isolates originating from dogs and cats were studied by pheno- and genotypic methods. The classical biochemical tests identified these isolates as P. multocida, P. dagmatis, and P. canis, while the Biolog system distinguished only 2 categories: P. multocida and P. dagmatis. The sodA gene sequence-based phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolates identified as P. dagmatis by the Biolog system were either P. dagmatis, P. canis, or P. dagmatis-like genomospecies. The low discrimination power of the Biolog system in the case of these closely related Pasteurella species draws attention to the need of continuously improving the database of automated microbial identification systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Three Pasteurella dagmatis-like strains recovered from the feline oral cavity were analysed by traditional biochemical tests, the Biolog Microstation™ ID System, and 16S rRNA and sodA gene sequence analysis. The molecular biological methods revealed that these strains differ from P. dagmatis, forming a new genomospecies in the genus Pasteurella sensu stricto. Furthermore, sequence analysis and multiple alignments of 16S rRNA and the sodA gene established that the P. pneumotropica NCTC10827 and the P. dagmatis-like strains described here possess high genetic similarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A host variant of Newcastle disease virus (NDV, genus Avulavirus, family Paramyxoviridae) is responsible for an autonomous disease in pigeons. It emerged in the late 1970s in the Mediterranean region. Despite great genetic diversity the vast majority of strains belong to a monophyletic group (sublineage VIb) within genotype VI of NDV strains that were indigenous in the region at that time. To date only a monoclonal antibody assay is available for the specific identification of pigeon type strains. A specific genetic assay is described suitable for the identification of pigeon isolates. Cleavage site analysis of a 1349bp amplicon of the fusion protein gene was carried out using restriction enzymes (RE) HinfI, BstOI and RsaI. RE analysis of over 100 strains isolated between 1978 and 2002 deriving from 16 countries has revealed nine RE-patterns, which were progressive site variants of the parental (group VI) genotype. In spite of substantial site variation, extant pigeon viruses lacked a BstOI cleavage site at nucleotide 1601 shared by other NDV strains of chicken origin. RE analysis is a simple and reliable method both for the identification and subgrouping of pigeon type viruses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A numerical investigation into the propagation of ultrashort light pulses in the region of 1.55 µm was conducted and the conversion efficiency (CE) in four-wave mixing (FWM) generation of ordinary and dispersion decreasing fibres for use in wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) systems was investigated. The simulation studied six different profiles: linear, hyperbolic, Gaussian, logarithm, exponential and constant. For all the studied profiles there was a decrease in conversion efficiency with an increase in channel separation. The CE for the hyperbolic profile is around 103 times larger in magnitude compared with the constant, logarithm and linear profiles at 0.2 nm. Modulation instability was observed during the FWM signal propagation. Typically, a frequency of modulation Δ fMAX≃8 GHz at the beginning of the propagation of the mixing signal (15 km) was obtained. For the Gaussian profile, where the modulation instability (MI) is more efficient, and for a long propagation, the MI is growing and more frequency satellites are present. It is concluded that with the use of decreasing dispersion profile (DDF) fibres, control of the CE and the compression factor of FWM generation in WDM systems can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the aims, results, recommendations and conclusions of the First European Workshop on standardized procedure for the inspection of sprayers in Europe (SPISE), held at Braunschweig (DE) on 2004-04-27/29. It recommends in particular the general implementation in Europe of European Standard EN13790. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We did a numerical investigation of the propagation of short light pulses in the region of 1.55 μm and the conversion efficiency (CE) for the four wave mixing generation (FWM) of ordinary and dispersion decreasing fibers for use in wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) systems. Our simulations studies three different profiles, linear, hyperbolic, and constant. One conclude that for all the profiles there is decrease of the conversion efficiency with the increase in the channel separation. The hyperbolic profile present a higher efficiency of around 1000 above in magnitude compared with the others profiles at 0.2 nm of channel separation. We calculate the conversion efficiency versus the fiber length for the three profiles. The conversion efficiency for the hyperbolic profile is higher when compared to the constant and linear profiles. The other interesting point of the hyperbolic profile is that the increase of the CE in the beginning of the fiber does not show any oscillation in the CE value (), which was observed for the constant and linear profiles. For all the profiles there is an increase of the conversion efficiency with the increase of the pump power. The compression factor for the generated FWM signal at was measured along the DDF''s and the constant profile fibers. One can conclude that with the use of decreasing dispersion profile (DDF) fibers one can have a control of the (CE) conversion efficiency and the compression factor of the four wave mixing (FWM) generation in WDM systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

For planning library conservation measures like mass deacidification, microfilming or digitalisation in acidic book collections, it is nessessary to carry out a damage survey first. This survey should, on the one hand, make it possible to assess the extent of the damage and the suitability of the books for certain kinds of preservation, and on the other hand give direct access to the individual damaged book. With the Göttingen State and University Library as an example, it will be examined if and how a damage survey could be carried out in principle. For this a model is outlined as to how such a damage survey could be carried out. It is discussed if an item-by-item survey or a sample is more suitable, and a damage questionnaire is presented. Furthermore, the paper indicates how the questionnaire can be transformed into a database. Finally the possible course of the survey including preparations and evaluations is outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Partial sequence and residue substitution analyses of the fusion protein gene were performed for 68 strains of avian paramyxovirus type 1 of pigeons (PPMV-1), an antigenic variant of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) of chickens, derived from 16 countries between 1978 and 2002. The majority of isolates clustered into a single genetic lineage, termed VIb/1, within genotype VI of NDV strains of chickens, whereas a small number of isolates that originated in Croatia after 1995, grouped in a highly diverged lineage, termed VIb/2, indicating a separate host-switching event from that of VIb/1 strains. Four distinct subgroups of lineage VIb/1, Iraqi (IQ), early European (EU/ea), North American (NA) and recent European (EU/re) have emerged and circulated in the past decades. Subgroup EU/ea and NA strains were responsible for the main streams of infection in the 1980s, while EU/re viruses for infections in the 1990s. The degree of genetic diversity of viruses in the early phase of the epizootic suggested a prolonged infection period of the pigeon-type viruses prior to the emergence of the disease in the early 1980s. Shared derived character analysis showed a close genetic relationship to Sudanese viruses from the mid-1970, suggesting that PPMV-1 viruses could be of African origin. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary Twelve vaccine batches prepared from avirulent vaccine strains of Newcastle disease virus produced by seven manufacturers were identified by analysis of the matrix (M ) protein gene with restriction enzymes Mbo I and Hin fI. The analyses have revealed the presence of the strain indicated by the manufacturers (namely B-1, LaSota or Ulster 2C), except in one case when the vaccine contained strain V4 Queensland instead of VGGA as indicated. In addition, several batches of both monovalent and combined vaccines containing strain LaSota of the same company consistently disclosed contamination with strain B-1. The mixed nature of the preparations was verified not only by the dual patterns of restriction fragments but also by separating the two components and identifying them individually. Restriction analysis of the M gene, by allowing positive identification of each of the lentogenic vaccine strains, should provide an improvement in controlling vaccine batches by revealing homologous contaminants or exchange of the vaccine strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Newcastle disease (ND) epizootics in some European countries after the World War II were caused by ND virus (NDV) of multiple genotypes (IV–VIIa) occurring sequentially and/or simultaneously. This study was carried out to characterise the genetic composition of NDV strains during the outbreaks in the territory of the former Yugoslavia in order to enhance our understanding of the relationships of past epizootics in Europe. Sixty-eight NDV strains isolated between 1979 and 2002 were analysed by restriction enzyme digestion and partial sequencing of the fusion protein gene. All isolates were placed in genotype V, an exotic type, that was introduced to western Europe in 1970. Residue substitution analysis has allowed the recognition of four genetic variants, Vb1–Vb4, and the tracing of their movements. Vb1, a dominant variant in Bulgaria from the late 1970s, was also wide spread in the former Yugoslavia throughout the period under investigation. Vb2, a variant occurring in the neighbouring countries in the early 1970s could be the founder of the epidemic in Yugoslavia and it was present up to the late 1980s. Variants Vb3 and Vb4 could be found only after 1987. In conclusion, the ND outbreaks in Yugoslavia were part of the epizootic wave due to genotype V viruses that started in western Europe in 1970 and became endemic in the region. Inter-country transmission occurred for all variants, and Vb3 and Vb4 might have evolved during the endemic period. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The origins and relationships of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) vaccine strains Hertfordshire (H) and Mukteswar, and the virulent Herts'33 were studied using partial sequence analysis of the fusion protein gene. The mesogenic strain H was obtained by egg passages of a field virus isolated in England in 1933 (later known as Herts'33). Different lines of the strain Herts'33, however, divided into two distinct groups: genotype IV, and a hitherto undescribed lineage, which comprised the Weybridge line (Herts'33/56). Vaccine strain H and the two clusters comprising viruses designated Herts'33 displayed 6.5 to 6.8% and 15.6 to 16.3% mutational distances, respectively, which precluded parent-offspring relationships with either of them. In contrast, the different lines of the vaccine strain Mukteswar, which was reportedly derived from an Indian field isolate in the mid-1940s, showed 98.9 to 100% sequence similarity to strain H. It is therefore probable that the two vaccines were derived from the same virus stock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forty-five velogenic Newcastle disease virus strains isolated in Germany between 1939 and 1995 were analysed by restriction enzyme digestion and sequencing to shed light on the relationships of past epizootics. Viruses derived from the period prior to 1970 belonged to a clade (IVea) of genotype IV comprising the earliest isolates from Europe, and could be isolated until the late seventies from poultry. Essex'70-like viruses, the prototype of genotype V, were already present at the beginning of the 19703/74 epizootic and in sporadic cases thereafter, indicating that these Newcastle disease outbreaks started in Western Europe. A genotype VI (subtype VIc) isolate was obtained in the early 1980s from a single outbreak in poultry. Outbreaks between 19933/95 were again part of a Western European epizootic caused by a genotype VIIa virus that was prevalent in the Far East. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma anserisalpingitidis is a bacterial waterfowl pathogen. In these days of growing antibiotic resistance, it is necessary to search for alternative methods of defense against Mycoplasma impacts in flocks. In order to identify prophage-like sequences, three established bioinformatics tools (PHASTER, PhiSpy, Prophage Hunter) were used in this study for the in silico screening of 82 M. anserisalpingitidis whole genomes. The VIBRANT software was used as a novel approach to further investigate the possibility of prophages in the sequences. The commonly used softwares found prophage-like sequences in the strains, but the results were inconclusive. The VIBRANT search resulted in multiple hits, and many of them were over 10,000 base pairs (bp). These putative prophages are comparable in size to the few described mycoplasma phages. The translated coding DNA sequences of the putative prophages were checked with protein BLAST. The functions of the proteins found by the BLASTP search are common among bacteriophages. The BLASTN search of the sequences found that many of these were more similar to the M. anatis NCTC 10156 strain, rather than the available M. anserisalpingitidis strains. The initial screening pointed at the presence of novel bacteriophages in the M. anserisalpingitidis and M. anatis strains. The VIBRANT search results were very similar to each other and none of these sequences were part of the core genome of M. anserisalpingitidis , with a few exceptions. The VIBRANT analysis explored presumably intact, novel prophages. • Mycoplasma anserisalpingitidis is a waterfowl pathogen. • There are no avian mycoplasma phages described. • In silico screening found novel prophage-like sequences. • The species M. anatis and M. anserisalpingitidis have similar putative prophages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lentogenic field isolates of Newcastle disease virus were examined by restriction enzyme analysis of RT-PCR products generated from the matrix protein gene that discriminates between strains LaSota and B-1, the two most widely used lentogenic vaccine viruses. Isolates were derived from regions where, exclusively or predominantly, only one type of vaccine was employed. Viruses collected in Hungary for two decades were exclusively of LaSota-type while the Canadian collection predominantly included B-1, which corresponded to the vaccine types used in the regions. Isolation of vaccine type lentogenic viruses from unvaccinated flocks supports the occurrence of area spread of these lentogenic viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quantitative-genetic basis of sprouting resistance in winter rye (Secale cereale L.) was investigated in order to facilitate breeding for improved baking quality. Crosses within and between the Petkus and Carsten gene pools were tested along with the parental lines over two locations, two years, and two harvest dates. Heritabilities of approximately 0.6 were found for falling number (FN), α-amylase activity, dorminancy, and amylograph curve characters. FN showed moderate heterosis that reached 35 %. High genetic variation for FN was observed in most genetic materials, and error variances were generally small. Considerable genotype X year interactions occurred. Genotypes with high FN showed more instability for FN over environments. General combining ability was the main source of genetic variation for FN (80 %) and was correlated with line per se performance in the Carsten gene pool (r = 0.66). FN showed moderate to strong correlations with slowness of development, but only loose ones or none with other agronomic traits. We conclude that improving sprouting resistance by selecting for FN should be highly effective and would not cause unfavourable side effects with regard to yielding performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to monitor the dynamics and to measure the safety and efficacy of a live, attenuated, thermosensitive Mycoplasma anserisalpingitidis vaccine candidate, namely MA271, in geese breeder flocks under field conditions. Two rearing flocks were vaccinated with MA271 at 4 weeks of age and boosted at 24 weeks of age by cloaca inoculation (1 ml) and eye-dropping (60 µl). The geese then were transported to multi-aged breeding farms. Two breeding flocks served as controls. Colonization of the cloaca by MA271 showed 75% maximum prevalence between 4 and 6 weeks after the first vaccination. Then the prevalence decreased to 25% until the cooler, humid fall months which coincided with the booster vaccination. Boosting raised cloacal colonization to 100%. No clinical signs were observed in the vaccinated birds. After transportation to five multi-aged breeding farms, the wild-type strain appeared as well as MA271 in three flocks. In one flock, the wild-type strain completely displaced MA271, while in one flock only MA271 was detected. Only wild-type strains were detected in the control flocks; however, due to an HPAI outbreak, both flocks were exterminated before the end of the study. Based on the available data, the median percentage of infertile eggs was 3.7-5.1% in the MA271 vaccinated flocks, and 7.7% in the non-vaccinated flock. In conclusion, MA271 can colonize the cloaca of geese under field conditions. MA271 proved to be safe and presumably protects against M. anserisalpingitidis-induced reproduction losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents teaching strategies of science for learning-disabled students (LD). Growth in the number of students diagnosed with LD; How teachers relate to the struggles of LD students; Criticism of teaching methods in science classes.

Introduction Schizophrenia is associated with cannabis use and deficits in selective attention. Objectives/aims This study investigated these relationships using habituation of the startle reflex in schizophrenia patients relative to cannabis users during selective attentional tasks. Methods Participants included 12 healthy controls (CON), 16 healthy cannabis users in the last 12 months (THC), and eight schizophrenia patients (SCZ). Auditory startle reflex was recorded from orbicularis oculi muscle while participants were attending to (Attend Task) or ignoring (Ignore Task) 100 dB startling pulses. Startle habituation was measured as the absolute reduction in startle magnitude on block 2 (last nine trials) vs. block 1 (first nine trials) on each attentional task and in each group. Results All three groups were matched on demographics, alcohol, and caffeine consumption. ANCOVA with two within-subject factors (attention and habituation with 2 levels each), one between-subject factor (group with 3 levels), and one covariate (nicotine use which was higher in SCZ vs. CON or THC) showed a significant startle habituation with moderate to large effect sizes in all three groups on the Ignore Task (Cohen's d = 0.67 in CON, d = 0.59 in THC, d = 0.90 in SCZ) but not on the Attend Task. Attentional modulation of the startle reflex occurred only in CON (d = 1.33) and THC (d = 1.17), but not in SCZ. Conclusion Auditory startle habituation depends on selective attention but is not affected by schizophrenia or cannabis use. Deficient attentional modulation of the startle reflex suggests that a more severe deficit in selective attention occurs in schizophrenia relative to cannabis use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fast sheet-molybdenum strip heater for alloying of ohmic contacts to semiconductor devices is described. Its temperature/time program is microprocessor controlled, so that heating and cooling rates of 3700 and 2800 °C/min, respectively, can be achieved reproducibly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study in which a spectroscopic ellipsometry was used to analyze the refractive index and the absorption coefficient of thin buffer layers of indium phosphide grown by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy on silicon substrates. Influence on the crystallographic properties of the subsequently grown indium phosphide main layer; Cause of the increased optical absorption of the buffer layers; Description of the automated nulling setup used in the study.

Presents a study that developed a new selective-growth process of indium phosphide on exactly (100)-oriented Si substrate in a conventional low-pressure metal-organic vapor-phase-epitaxy system. Details of the experiment; Results and discussion; Summary.

Aqueous chemical growth (ACG) is an efficient way to generate wafer-scale and densely packed arrays of ZnO nanopillars on various substrate materials. ACG is a low-temperature growth approach that is only weakly influenced by the substrate and even allows growth on flexible polymer substrates or on conducting materials. The advanced fabrication of wafer-scale and highly vertically aligned arrays of ZnO nanopillars on various substrate materials is demonstrated. Moreover, it is possible to control the morphology in diameter and length by changing the growth conditions. Photoluminescence characterization clearly shows a comparatively strong band-edge luminescence, even at room temperature, that is accompanied by a rather weak visible luminescence in the yellow/orange spectral range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma anserisalpingitidis is economically the most important pathogenic Mycoplasma species of waterfowl in Europe and Asia. The lack of commercially available vaccines against M. anserisalpingitidis had prompted this study with the aim to produce temperature-sensitive (ts+) clones as candidates for an attenuated live vaccine. The production of ts+ clones was performed by N-methyl-N′-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (NTG)-induced mutagenesis of Hungarian M. anserisalpingitidis field isolates. The clones were administered via eye-drop and intracloacally to 33-day-old geese. Colonization ability was examined by PCR and isolation from the trachea and cloaca, while the serological response of the birds was tested by ELISA. Pathological and histopathological examinations were performed in the eighth week after inoculation. Whole-genome sequence (WGS) analysis of the selected clone and its parent strain was also performed. NTG-treatment provided three ts+ mutants (MA177/1/11, MA177/1/12, MA271). MA271 was detected at the highest rate from cloacal (86.25%) and tracheal (30%) samples, while MA177/1/12 and MA271 elicited remarkable serological responses with 90% of the birds showing seroconversion. Re-isolates of MA271 remained ts+ throughout the experiment. Based on these properties, clone MA271 was found to be the most promising vaccine candidate. WGS analysis revealed 59 mutations in the genome of MA271 when compared to its parent strain, affecting both polypeptides involved in different cellular processes and proteins previously linked to bacterial fitness and virulence. Although further studies are needed to prove that MA271 is in all aspects a suitable vaccine strain, it is expected that this ts+ clone will contribute to the control of M. anserisalpingitidis infection. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS Three M. anserisalpingitidis ts+ vaccine candidates were produced by NTG-mutagenesis. Clone MA271 was able to colonize geese and induce a serological response. MA271 re-isolates remained ts+ during the 8-week-long experiment. WGS analysis revealed 59 mutations in the genome of MA271. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulsed sputter deposition has been demonstrated to be a viable process for the growth of high quality GaN and InGaN/GaN LEDs. It enables the fabrication of nitride LEDs with a red emission wavelength at large areas. In this study, we explore details on the epitaxial sputter deposition of GaN with a particular emphasis on ion damage. By changing the argon to nitrogen ratio, we adjust the growth mode from island to layer growth. TEM revealed speckles in the epitaxial GaN, which could be identified as isolated basal stacking faults, acting as non-radiative recombination centers. Using Monte Carlo methods, we modeled the energies of backscattered and sputtered atoms in order to get information on the ion damage mechanisms. Considering the collisions on the way from the target to the substrate, we found energetic nitrogen to induce the speckles. A shielding mechanism based on metallic gallium has been identified, leading to the strongly increased luminescence quality in comparison to the non-shielded material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bordetella bronchiseptica is a widespread Gram-negative pathogen occurring in different mammal species. It is known to play a role in the aetiology of infectious atrophic rhinitis of swine, canine kennel cough, respiratory syndromes of cats, rabbits and guinea pigs, and sporadic human cases have also been reported. In this study, 93 B. bronchiseptica strains were examined from a broad range of host species and different geographical regions using restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of polymerase chain reaction products of fla A to reveal the possible host-specificity of the flagellin. Eight types (A–H) of fla A were identified, including five newly described ones (D–H). All but one of the 22 B. bronchiseptica strains from swine showed type B fragment pattern. The eighteen Hungarian isolates of canine origin were uniform (type A) while in other countries type B and D were also present in dogs. The sequence and phylogenetic analysis of 36 representative strains of fla A types revealed four clusters. These clusters correlated with fla A PCR-RFLP types and host species, especially in pigs and dogs. The revealed diversity of the strains isolated from human cases indicated possible zoonotic transmissions from various animal sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three dimensional GaN structures with different crystal facets and doping types have been investigated employing the surface photo-voltage (SPV) method to monitor illumination-induced surface charge behavior using Kelvin probe force microscopy. Various photon energies near and below the GaN bandgap were used to modify the generation of electron-hole pairs and their motion under the influence of the electric field near the GaN surface. Fast and slow processes for Ga-polar c-planes on both Si-doped n-type as well as Mg-doped p-type GaN truncated pyramid microstructures were found and their origin is discussed. The immediate positive (for n-type) and negative (for p-type) SPV response dominates at band-to-band and near-bandgap excitation, while only the slow process is present at sub-bandgap excitation. The SPV behavior for the semi-polar facets of the p-type GaN truncated pyramids has a similar characteristic to that on its c-plane, which indicates that it has a comparable band bending and no strong influence of the polarity-induced charges is detectable. The SPV behavior of the non-polar m-facets of the Si-doped n-type part of a transferred GaN column is similar to that of a clean c-plane GaN surface during illumination. However, the SPV is smaller in magnitude, which is attributed to intrinsic surface states of m-plane surfaces and their influence on the band bending. The SPV behavior of the non-polar m-facet of the slightly Mgdoped part of this GaN column is found to behave differently. Compared to c- and r-facets of p-type surfaces of GaN-light-emitting diode micro-structures, the m-plane is more chemically stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the electrochemical growth of zinc oxide nanorods in a zinc nitrate/hexamethylenetetramine solution at 70 °C. High-density vertical nanorods were grown on Au films on silicon substrates with a texture coefficient better than 99.9%. By varying the reactant concentration the diameter can be varied between 100 and 250 nm, with corresponding lengths of 1 to 4 μm. Furthermore, this approach was used for the selective growth on Ti/Au strip conductors ordered in an interdigitated structure on an insulating substrate. We achieved the growth of ZnO nanorods between neighbouring strip conductors bridging the gap between them. In this configuration the nanorods are already contacted and electrical measurements can be directly performed. First I–V measurements show a good conductivity of the as-grown nanorods and the resistance could be estimated to be 0.1 Ω cm. Under UV illumination the ZnO nanorods demonstrate a photoconductivity, but only after annealing the sample at 300 °C in N2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: ZnO nanorod arrays find applications in solar energy conversion, light emission and other promising areas. One approach to generate ZnO nanorods is the cost efficient aqueous chemical growth (ACG). Usually the ACG process is based on a nucleation step followed by growth of ZnO nanorods in aqueous solution at temperatures below 95 ∘C. We report on the fabrication of homogeneous, large scale arrays of nanorods on various substrate materials (Si, glass, polymer) by ACG. PL-measurements show surprisingly good optical quality although the rods were grown at low temperature. Even though we have developed patterning of these arrays with photolithographic techniques, a bottom up approach for lateral patterning is important concerning further applications especially for mass-production. The substrates with patterned metal layers were employed to realize selective growth of nanorods. The experiments were carried out on Ti-, Ag- and Pt-patterned substrates. Selective growth on metal structured glass substrates was developed and is described. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• A five locus-based MLST assay was developed for genotyping M. anserisalpingitidis. • MLST assay of 89 different samples yielded 76 unique sequence types. • MLST could identify related samples from different geographical locations. • The MSLT scheme provides novel phylogenetic tool for M. anserisalpingitidis. Mycoplasma anserisalpingitidis infection is associated with the inflammation of the genital tract and cloaca, embryo lethality, and decreased egg production in geese, leading to serious economic losses. M. anserisalpingitidis has been detected mainly in Central and Eastern Europe, especially in Hungary, but the pathogen was identified recently in China, predicting it's worldwide occurrence. In this study, a novel multilocus sequence typing (MLST) scheme was developed to analyse phylogenetic relationships between M. anserisalpingitidis field isolates and clinical specimens originating from different geographical locations. Five loci (atpG , fusA , pgiB , plsY , and uvrA) were selected for the final MLST study. The examined 89 M. anserisalpingitidis samples yielded 76 unique sequence types with a 0.994 Simpson's index of diversity. The samples were originated from Hungary, Poland, Ukraine, China, and Vietnam. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the existence of three distinct clades (A–C) and six subclades within clade C. Generally, samples originating from the same geographical locations or livestock integration clustered together. Isolates in clade A showed the closest relationships to the M. anatis outgroup due to sequence similarity of the plsY locus. The highest genetic distance was observed in 5C among the subclades of clade C, containing the Asian and some Hungarian field isolates. The developed MLST assay revealed high diversity of the investigated M. anserisalpingitidis samples. The method proved to be a valuable and cost-effective tool for sequence typing of this waterfowl Mycoplasma species, enabling the better understanding of its phylogeny and providing a robust assay for future molecular epidemiological investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional GaN columns recently have attracted a lot of attention as the potential basis for core-shell light emitting diodes for future solid state lighting. In this study, the fundamental insights into growth kinetics and mass transport mechanisms of N-polar GaN columns during selective area metal organic vapor phase epitaxy on patterned SiOx/sapphire templates are systematically investigated using various pitch of apertures, growth time, and silane flow. Species impingement fluxes on the top surface of columns Jtop and on their sidewall Jsw, as well as, the diffusion flux from the substrate Jsub contribute to the growth of the GaN columns. The vertical and lateral growth rates devoted by Jtop, Jsw and Jsub are estimated quantitatively. The diffusion length of species on the SiOx mask surface λsub as well as on the sidewall surfaces of the 3D columns λsw are determined. The influences of silane on the growth kinetics are discussed. A growth model is developed for this selective area metal organic vapor phase epitaxy processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper demonstrates the first vertical field-effect transistor based on gallium nitride (GaN) fin structures with an inverted p-doped channel layer. A top-down hybrid etching approach combining inductively coupled plasma reactive ion etching and KOH-based wet etching was applied to fabricate regular fields of GaN fins with smooth a-plane sidewalls. The obtained morphologies are explained using a cavity step-flow model. A 3D processing scheme has been developed and evaluated via focussed ion beam cross-sections. The top-down approach allows the introduction of arbitrary doping profiles along the channel without regrowth, enabling the modulation of the channel properties and thus increasing the flexibility of the device concept. Here, a vertical npn-doping profile was used to achieve normally-off operation with an increased threshold voltage as high as 2.65 V. The p-doped region and the 3D gate wrapped around the sidewalls create a very narrow vertical electron channel close to the interface between dielectric and semiconductor, resulting in good electrostatic gate control, low leakage currents through the inner fin core and high sensitivity to the interface between GaN and gate oxide. Hydrodynamic transport simulations were carried out and show good agreement with the performed current–voltage and capacitance–voltage measurements. The simulation indicates a reduced channel mobility which we attribute to interface scattering being particularly relevant in narrow channels. We also demonstrate the existence of oxide and interface traps with an estimated sheet density of 3.2 × 1012 cm−2 related to the Al2O3 gate dielectric causing an increased subthreshold swing. Thus, improving the interface quality is essential to reach the full potential of the presented vertical 3D transistor concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shape and function of insect wings tremendously vary between insect species. This review is engaged in how wing design determines the aerodynamic mechanisms with which wings produce an air momentum for body weight support and flight control. We work out the tradeoffs associated with aerodynamic key parameters such as vortex development and lift production, and link the various components of wing structure to flight power requirements and propulsion efficiency. A comparison between rectangular, ideal-shaped and natural-shaped wings shows the benefits and detriments of various wing shapes for gliding and flapping flight. The review expands on the function of three-dimensional wing structure, on the specific role of wing corrugation for vortex trapping and lift enhancement, and on the aerodynamic significance of wing flexibility for flight and body posture control. The presented comparison is mainly concerned with wings of flies because these animals serve as model systems for both sensorimotor integration and aerial propulsion in several areas of biology and engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma iowae is a worldwide spread and economically important avian pathogen that mostly infects turkeys. Currently, multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) serves as the gold standard method for strain identification in M. iowae. However, additional robust genotyping methods are required to effectively monitor M. iowae infections and conduct epidemiological investigations. The first aim of this study was to develop genotyping assays with high resolution, that specifically target M. iowae , namely a multiple-locus variable number of tandem-repeats analysis (MLVA) and a core genome multi-locus sequence typing (cgMLST) schema. The second aim was the determination of relationships among a diverse selection of M. iowae strains and clinical isolates with a previous and the newly developed assays. The MLVA was designed based on the analyses of tandem-repeat (TR) regions in the six serotype reference strains (I, J, K, N, Q and R). The cgMLST schema was developed based on the coding sequences (CDSs) common in 95% of the examined 99 isolates. The samples were submitted for a previously published MLST assay for comparison with the developed methods. Out of 94 TR regions identified, 17 alleles were selected for further evaluation by PCR. Finally, seven alleles were chosen to establish the MLVA assay. Additionally, whole genome sequence analyses identified a total of 676 CDSs shared by 95% of the isolates, all of which were included into the developed cgMLST schema. The MLVA discriminated 19 distinct genotypes (GT), while with the cgMLST assay 79 sequence types (ST) could be determined with Simpson's diversity indices of 0.810 (MLVA) and 0.989 (cgMLST). The applied assays consistently identified the same main clusters among the diverse selection of isolates, thereby demonstrating their suitability for various genetic analyses and their ability to yield congruent results. • cgMLST and MLVA genotyping assays specific for M. iowae were developed. • Relationships in a diverse set of 99 M. iowae strains were determined. • The established methods are suitable for epidemiological investigations. • Low genetic variability was found among the M. iowae strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of Fe doping on the elastic and anelastic properties of heteroepitaxial InP films on microfabricated silicon cantilevers has been investigated by the vibrating-reed technique (typical frequencies 100 Hz to 10 kHz) with strain amplitudes in the range of 10[sup -6] to 10[sup -3] and in the temperature interval from 113 to 508 K. A matter of particular interest has been the effect of iron doping on the motion and multiplication of dislocations which are known to restrict the application of the material for instance in optoelectronic devices. For this purpose, the amplitude dependence of damping as well as internal friction as a function of temperature, thermal treatment, and frequency have been investigated and are discussed in terms of the present knowledge about twins and dislocations in InP. In addition, Young's modulus as well as film stress have been measured as a function of temperature, which permits an estimate of the thermal expansion coefficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Riemerella anatipestifer (RA) is a widely distributed bacterial pathogen of birds responsible for remarkable losses to poultry production, especially among waterfowl. We characterized the genomic diversity of 166 field isolates of RA, collected from geese and ducks, using enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC)-polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The field strains and five reference strains showed 17 distinct patterns consisting of five to 12 bands ranging from approximately 150-1800bp. The majority of the strains belonged to two closely related ERIC-PCR types (A and B), while the other types contained only a few isolates each. There was no association between ERIC-PCR type and host species, place, or year of isolation; however the ERIC-PCR pattern was correlated with serotype for most isolates. The majority of serotype 1 strains (101/107) belonged to ERIC-PCR type A while the remaining six strains represented five different ERIC-PCR types (D, G, L, M, and O). Serotypes 1,7 and 7 corresponded to ERIC-PCR types B and C, respectively. Serotypes 2, 4, and 10 could be subdivided by ERIC-PCR revealing two to four patterns within each serotype. These results indicate that ERIC-PCR may be a suitable technique for the molecular identification of RA serotypes, and the detection of subtypes within certain serotypes may aid further epidemiological investigations. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS ERIC-PCR analysis of field R. anatipestifer strains revealed 17 distinct patterns Most strains belonged to two closely related ERIC-PCR types Serotype 1 was the most prevalent serotype representing 64.5% of the strains ERIC-PCR may be suitable for molecular identification of R. anatipestifer serotypes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Zn acceptor level position in GaN:Zn was studied on specially designed GaN(undoped)/GaN:Zn([Zn] = 5 × 1016 cm−3) structures by contactless electroreflectance. A well-defined Franz-Keldysh oscillation is present in optical spectra which results from the built-in electric field present in the near-surface layer. The obtained results show that a significant band bending in the GaN:Zn layer occurs lowering the field in the top layer that is in line with predictions for a semiconductor doped with a high ionization energy acceptor. The acceptor level responsible for the Fermi level position in GaN:Zn is found to be at ∼2.3 eV below the conduction band minimum which coincides with levels introduced by Zn atoms substituting nitrogen in the lattice. At the same time, the surface Fermi level of structures is located in the middle of the bandgap, which is in the lower maximum of (0001) GaN surface density of states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining the antibiotic susceptibility profile of Mycoplasma bovis isolates in vitro provides the basis for the appropriate choice of antibiotics in the therapy. Traditionally, the antibiotic susceptibility examination of mycoplasmas is technically demanding, time-consuming and rarely performed in diagnostic laboratories. The aim of the present study was to develop rapid molecular assays to determine mutations responsible for elevated minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) to fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines, aminocyclitols, macrolides, lincosamides, phenicols and pleuromutilins in M. bovis . The nine mismatch amplification mutation assays (MAMA) and seven high resolution melt (HRM) tests designed in the present study enable the simultaneous detection of these genetic markers. The sensitivity of the assays varied between 10 2 –10 5 copy numbers/reaction. Cross-reactions with other mycoplasmas occurring in cattle were detected in assays targeting universal regions ( e.g . 16S rRNA). Nevertheless, results of the novel method were in accordance with sequence and MICs data of the M. bovis pure cultures. Also, the tests of clinical samples containing high amount of M. bovis DNA were congruent even in the presence of other Mycoplasma spp. The presented method is highly cost-effective and can provide an antibiogram to 12 antibiotics in approximately 3–4 days when previous isolation of M. bovis is applied. In order to assure the proper identification of the genetic markers at issue, the regions examined by the MAMA and HRM tests are overlapping. In conclusion, the developed assays have potential to be used in routine diagnostics for the detection of antibiotic susceptibility in M. bovis . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

GaN fins are 3D architectures elongated in one direction parallel to the substrate surface. They have the geometry of walls with a large height to width ratio as well as small footprints. When appropriate symmetry directions of the GaN buffer are used, the sidewalls are formed by non-polar {1 1 −2 0} planes, making the fins particularly suitable for many device applications like LEDs, FETs, lasers, sensors or waveguides. The influence of growth parameters like temperature, pressure, V/III ratio and total precursor flow on the fin structures is analyzed. Based on these results, a 2-temperature-step-growth was developed, leading to fins with smooth side and top facets, fast vertical growth rates and good homogeneity along their length as well as over different mask patterns. For the core–shell growth of fin LED heterostructures, the 2-temperature-step-growth shows much smoother sidewalls and less crystal defects in the InGaN QW and p-GaN shell compared to structures with cores grown in just one step. Electroluminescence spectra of the 2-temperature-step-grown fin LED are demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apathy and impulsivity are common and disabling consequences of frontotemporal lobar degeneration. They cause substantial carer distress, but their aetiology remains elusive. There are critical limitations to previous studies in this area including (i) the assessment of either apathy or impulsivity alone, despite their frequent co-existence; (ii) the assessment of behavioural changes within single diagnostic groups; and (iii) the use of limited sets of tasks or questions that relate to just one aspect of these multifactorial constructs. We proposed an alternative, dimensional approach that spans behavioural and language variants of frontotemporal dementia, progressive supranuclear palsy and corticobasal syndrome. This accommodates the commonalities of apathy and impulsivity across disorders and reveals their cognitive and anatomical bases. The ability to measure the components of apathy and impulsivity and their associated neural correlates across diagnostic groups would provide better novel targets for pharmacological manipulations, and facilitate new treatment strategies and strengthen translational models. We therefore sought to determine the neurocognitive components of apathy and impulsivity in frontotemporal lobar degeneration syndromes. The frequency and characteristics of apathy and impulsivity were determined by neuropsychological and behavioural assessments in 149 patients and 50 controls from the PIck's disease and Progressive supranuclear palsy Prevalence and INcidence study (PiPPIN). We derived dimensions of apathy and impulsivity using principal component analysis and employed these in volumetric analyses of grey and white matter in a subset of 70 patients (progressive supranuclear palsy, n = 22; corticobasal syndrome, n = 13; behavioural variant, n = 14; primary progressive aphasias, n = 21) and 27 control subjects. Apathy and impulsivity were present across diagnostic groups, despite being criteria for behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia alone. Measures of apathy and impulsivity frequently loaded onto the same components reflecting their overlapping relationship. However, measures from objective tasks, patient-rated questionnaires and carer-rated questionnaires loaded onto separate components and revealed distinct neurobiology. Corticospinal tracts correlated with patients' self-ratings. In contrast, carer ratings correlated with atrophy in established networks for goal-directed behaviour, social cognition, motor control and vegetative functions, including frontostriatal circuits, orbital and temporal polar cortex, and the brainstem. Components reflecting response inhibition deficits correlated with focal frontal cortical atrophy. The dimensional approach to complex behavioural changes arising from frontotemporal lobar degeneration provides new insights into apathy and impulsivity, and the need for a joint therapeutic strategy against them. The separation of objective tests from subjective questionnaires, and patient from carer ratings, has important implications for clinical trial design.awx101media15448041163001. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]