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Bu çalışmada genel anlamda sıfatların taallukundan ziyade özel anlamda fiilî sıfatların kudretin mi yoksa tekvînin mi taalluku olduğu meselesi analiz edilecektir. Sadece fiilî sıfatlarla sınırlı olmayan taalluk, aslında zâtî sıfatların her birinin ilgili olduğu alana ilişkin olarak gündeme gelmektedir. Örneğin ilim sıfatının taalluku ile kudretin taalluku birbirinden farklıdır; birinin taalluk ettiğine diğeri taalluk edememektedir. Kelâm âlimleri arasında tartışma konusu olan taalluk ise fiilî sıfatlar hakkındadır. Kelâmcılar Allah’ın yaratması bağlamında fiilleri kudret sıfatından hareketle ele alırken irâde, adâlet, hikmet ve lütuf kavramları üzerinde dururlar. Allah’ın mükellef bir varlık olan insanla ilişkisinde kudret sıfatı ön plana çıkarılır. Kader, hayır ve şer gibi unsurlar ise bu aşamadan sonra gündeme gelmektedir. Bu noktada Eş’arîler fiilî sıfatların kudretin taalluku olduğunu savunurken Mâtürîdîler bunun tekvînin taalluku olduğunu benimsemektedirler. Kuşkusuz bu tartışmalarda ilahî kudretin mutlak olması merkezi önemi haiz olmaktadır. Burada kudretin mutlak olması kelâm ekollerinin teorilerini ortaya koyarken belirleyici bir unsur olduğunu ilave etmek gerekmektedir. Yukarıda söylenenler ışığında âleme ilişkin ilahî müdahaleye dair tartışmalarda Mu‘tezilî, Eş‘arî ve Mâtürîdî kelâm âlimlerinin görüşlerinin incelenmesi önem arz etmektedir. Mu‘tezile, Allah’ın mutlak kudretinin âleme taallukunu aslah prensibiyle, Eş‘arîler bu müdahalede mutlak kudretin belirleyici olmasıyla, Mâtürîdî kelâmcılar ise Allah’ın âleme müdahalesini hikmet kavramıyla açıklamaktadırlar. Eş’arîler’in tekvîn ve kudret sıfatları bağlamındaki itirazlarının son noktasını “taalluk” oluşturmaktadır. Bu çalışmada ilgili kelâm ekollerinin görüşleri karşılaştırılacak, elde edilen bilgiler çerçevesinde bazı değerlendirmeler yapılacaktır.

Çalışmamız, klasik Arap dilbilgisinin iki temel konusu olan te’kit (vurgu) ve kasem (yemin) arasındaki ilişkileri, ayetler bağlamında derinlemesine incelemeyi amaçlamıştır. Her iki kavram, dilbilgisi açısından müstakil yapılar olmalarına rağmen, özellikle kasem cümlelerinin cevap kısmında te’kitin sıkça kullanılması, iki konu arasında işlevsel bir bağ olduğunu ortaya koymaktadır. Dilbilgisi kaynakları, kasem kavramını genellikle kelime ve bağlam ilişkileri çerçevesinde ele almakta ve kasem ile te’kit arasındaki doğrudan ilişkiyi bağımsız bir başlık altında işlememektedir. Bu nedenle, kasem-te’kit bağının işleyişine yönelik dilbilgisel ayrıntılar çoğunlukla başka başlıklar altında dolaylı biçimde ele alınmıştır. Çalışmanın birincil amacı, klasik dil bilgisi ve tefsir kaynaklarını esas alarak, kasem üslubunun yapısal ve anlamsal yönleriyle te’kit ile olan ilişkisini kapsamlı bir şekilde ortaya koymaktır. Araştırmada, özellikle kasem cümlesinin cevap kısmında kullanılan te’kit türleri üzerinde durulmuş ve te’kitin hem sözlük hem de terim anlamları bağlamında incelemesi yapılmıştır. Bu kapsamda, lafzi (sözel) ve manevi (anlam düzeyinde) te’kit türleri arasındaki farklar detaylandırılmış; klasik nahiv ve sarf eserleri incelenmiş, günümüz Arapça dil bilgisi eserleri de göz önünde bulundurulmuştur. Çalışmanın yöntemi, klasik dilbilgisi ve tefsir literatüründe kasem ve te’kit arasında gözlemlenen ilişkilerin i’rab (gramatik çözümleme) ve yorumlama çalışmalarıyla desteklenmesi üzerine kuruludur. Kur’ân ayetleri ve Arap dil kaynaklarından örnekler yoluyla analiz derinleştirilmiş, kasem cümlelerinin gramatik yapılarıyla cevap cümlelerinin te’kit içermediği durumların koşulları da ele alınmıştır. Bu incelemeler sonucunda, kasem cümlelerinin te’kitli cevapları ile te’kitsiz yapıların anlam ve işlev açısından nasıl bir etkileşim içinde oldukları gösterilmiştir. Kasem üslubunun iki cümleden oluştuğu ve her iki cümlenin (kasem ve cevap cümlesi) dil bilgisel özellikleri üzerinde durulmuş, dilbilgisi kitaplarında yer alan te’kitsiz cevap cümleleri ve bu örneklerin şartları da incelenmiştir. Bunun da amacı, kasem cevabının te’kitli olma durumunun dil bilgisel ve anlamsal bağlamda nasıl işlediğini ortaya koymak ve kasem üslubunun cevap cümlesinin te’kitli durumu incelenerek, dilbilgisi literatüründeki eksikliklerin giderilmesine yardımcı olmaktır. Sonuçlar, kasem cümlesinin cevabında te’kit kullanımı çoğu dilbilgisi âlimince sabit bir unsur olarak görülse de, bunun katı bir zorunluluk değil, bağlamsal anlam gücünü artıran işlevsel bir tercih olduğunu ortaya koymaktadır. Özellikle olumsuz yargılar içeren kasem cümlelerinde te’kitin kullanılmaması, dilin anlam ve bağlam ilişkileri çerçevesinde açıklanabilir bir durum olarak değerlendirilmiştir. Çalışma, kasem ve te’kit konularının bir bütün olarak ele alınmasının Arap dilbilgisi literatüründeki mevcut eksiklikleri giderebileceğini ve bu konuda daha fazla araştırmaya zemin hazırlayabileceğini vurgulamaktadır. Bu bağlamda, kasem ve te’kitin güçlü bağına dair disiplinler arası yeni bakış açıları sunularak, Arap dilbilgisi alanındaki benzer incelemelerin diğer alanlarla etkileşimi açısından da özgün katkılar sağlaması hedeflenmiştir. Ayrıca araştırma, Arap dilbilgisi literatüründe kasem ve te’kit arasındaki ilişkiye dair mevcut anlayışların yeniden değerlendirilmesini hedefler, kasem cümlesinin cevap kısmındaki te’kit kullanımına dair yeni araştırma önerileriyle literatüre katkı sağlamayı ummaktadır. Böylelikle, gelecekteki çalışmalar için yol gösterici bir kaynak teşkil ederek, dilbilgisi kitaplarında kasem ve te’kit konularının daha entegre biçimde ele alınmasının önemine vurgu yapmaktadır.

The porous Ta membrane was prepared on the surface of Ta foils by spraying and sintering. Subsequently, the Pd/porousTa/Ta composite membrane was prepared by electroless Pd plating processes using the porous Ta/Ta as the composite substrate. The effect of sintering temperature on the morphology of porous tantalum films was studied, and the growth behavior of Pd films was analyzed. In the results, the sintering temperature has a significant impact on the structure of porous Ta membrane. The porous Ta membrane with the well-developed sintering neck can be obtained by sintering at 1700 ℃ for 2 h. The electroless plating time has a significant effect on the Pd membrane on the surface of porous Ta membrane. Moreover, due to the complex surface structure of porous Ta membrane, it is difficult to obtain the uniform and dense Pd membrane on the surface of porous Ta membrane.

ABSTRACT Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) have been identified as a promising approach to engage large numbers of students in discovery-based investigations in the biological sciences. As the prevalence of CUREs continues to increase nationwide, the role of graduate teaching assistants (TAs) in facilitating these courses has simultaneously grown. In addition to serving as instructors of CUREs, previous research suggests that educators—including TAs—must also adopt additional roles, including that of a mentor. However, few studies have explicitly examined CURE TAs’ beliefs and practices regarding mentorship. To address this need, we conducted an exploratory, concurrent mixed methods study to better understand TAs’ self-reported mentoring skills levels and their experiences acting as potential mentors in the context of an online introductory biology SEA-PHAGES CURE. Results indicate that TAs (N = 12) believed themselves most skilled in areas related to listening and communication, building rapport with students, and encouraging independence with respect to student research projects. Analysis of open-ended survey data further demonstrated that the overwhelming majority of TAs (n = 10) considered themselves to be mentors, citing a diversity of rationales reflective of both psychosocial and instrumental forms of mentoring support. Collectively, these outcomes contribute to a growing body of literature on the nature and level of involvement of TAs within CURE learning environments, particularly with respect to their posited role as mentors.

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) poses a significant challenge in neonatal medicine, often resulting in profound and lasting neurological deficits. Current therapeutic strategies for hypoxia-ischemia brain damage (HIBD) remain limited. Ferroptosis has been reported to play a crucial role in HIE and serves as a potential therapeutic target. However, the mechanisms underlying ferroptosis in HIBD remain largely unclear. In this study, we found that elevated lysyl oxidase (LOX) expression correlates closely with the severity of HIE, suggesting LOX as a potential biomarker for HIE. LOX expression levels and enzymatic activity were significantly increased in HI-induced neuronal models both in vitro and in vivo. Notably, we discovered that HI-induced brain tissue injury results in increased stiffness and observed a selective upregulation of the mechanosensitive ion channel Piezo1 in both brain tissue of HIBD and primary cortex neurons. Mechanistically, LOX increases its catalytic substrates, the Collagen I/III components, promoting extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and possibly mediating ECM cross-linking, which leads to increased stiffness at the site of injury and subsequent activation of the Piezo1 channel. Piezo1 senses these stiffness stimuli and then induces neuronal ferroptosis in a GPX4-dependent manner. Pharmacological inhibition of LOX or Piezo1 ameliorated brain neuronal ferroptosis and improved learning and memory impairments. Furthermore, we identified traumatic acid (TA) as a novel LOX inhibitor that effectively suppresses LOX enzymatic activity, mitigating neuronal ferroptosis and promoting synaptic plasticity. In conclusion, our findings elucidate a critical role for LOX-mediated ECM mechanical stress-induced Piezo1 activation in regulating ferroptotic cell death in HIBD. This mechanistic insight provides a basis for developing targeted therapies aimed at ameliorating neurological outcomes in neonates affected by HIBD.

The composition of Nb, Sn, Ta, and W in rutile can serve as a highly sensitive indicator for the mineralization of these elements. This information could also be utilized to discriminate different stages of ore deposition or distinct types of deposits. Precise and accurate measurement of trace-level concentrations of these elements in rutile is imperative for such investigations, and can be effectively achieved using electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). In this study, we employed a CAMECA SX5 field emission EPMA to develop an optimal approach for precise and accurate analysis of trace-level Nb, Sn, Ta, and W in rutile. The analytical conditions include an accelerating voltage of 25 kV, a beam current of 200 nA, a beam diameter of 1 μm, optimized background positions for Nb Lα, Sn Lα, Ta Lα, and W Lα, and aggregate intensity counting with a peak counting time of 240 s for each element per spectrometer. The detection limits (3σ) for Nb, Sn, Ta, and W ranged from 22 to 53 ppm. The highest achievable spatial resolution was approximately 4.3 μm. Analytical results obtained from potential rutile standards R10 and R632 were consistent with previous studies within the errors. The precision of these results varied from 1% to 10% (1σ), excluding W in R10 and Nb and Ta in R632, which exceeds the precision achieved in previous EPMA studies. We recommend using R10 as a reference standard for analyses of trace-level Nb, Sn, and Ta, and R632 as an appropriate reference standard for Sn and W when quantifying rutile using EPMA.

Kur’an’da 29 surenin başında yer alan ve isimleriyle kesik kesik okunan mukattaa harflerinin ne anlama geldiği ile ilgili Hz. Peygamber’den sahih bir haber varid olmamıştır. Dolayısıyla bu harflerin yorumlanıp yorumlanamayacağı noktasında İslam âlimleri iki farklı kanaate sahip olmuşlardır. Daha çok selef âlimlerinden oluşan ve ehl-i hadisin ağırlıklı olduğu bir gruba göre bu harfler, manasını yalnızca Allah’ın bildiği müteşâbihât kategorisinden olup bunların yorumlanması caiz değildir. Kelamcıların başını çektiği ikinci gruba göre ise Kur’an’da anlamı bilinmeyen şeylerin olması uygun değildir; dolayısıyla bu harflerin de mutlaka bir anlamı ya da fonksiyonu vardır; binaenaleyh bu konuda tevil yapmak caizdir. Bu harflerin ne anlama geldiği ile ilgili ilk dönemlerden itibaren pek çok şey söylenmiş ve bunlar hadis, tefsir ve Kur’an ilimlerine dair eserlerde kayıt altına alınmıştır. Bu makalede dirayet tefsirinin ve sünnî kelâm ekolünün kurucu isimlerinden biri kabul edilen İmam Mâtürîdî’nin (ö. 333/944), Te’vīlātu’l-Ḳur’ān adlı tefsirinde mukattaa harflerine yaklaşımı, önceki ve sonraki tefsirlerle karşılaştırmalı olarak incelenmektedir. Onun bu harflerin yorumlanması noktasındaki tavrı, daha önce yapılmış olan yorumlara yaklaşımı ve bizzat kendisinin bu harfleri nasıl algıladığı ortaya konulmaktadır. Onun mukattaa harfleri ile ilgili bazı görüşleri hiç yorum yapmadan sadece aktardığı görülmektedir ki bu tutum, söz konusu yorumlara mesafeli durduğu şeklinde yorumlanabilir. Ancak bu yorumları tenkit etmeden eserine almasını, onları en azından muhtemel gördüğü şeklinde yorumlamak da mümkündür. Müfessir bazı görüşleri ise onlara katıldığını hissettirecek birtakım açıklamalarla birlikte takdim etmektedir. Aslında o, hurûf-ı mukattaa ile ilgili aktardığı görüşlerin tamamını muhtemel görmektedir. Ancak onun bu konudaki kırmızı çizgisi, bunlar hakkında kesin konuşmaktan kaçınmaktır. Zira bunlar, hakiki manasını yalnızca Allah ve resulünün bilebileceği müteşâbihâttandır. Mâtürîdî, mukattaa harflerini müteşâbihâttan saymakla birlikte bunların teviline karşı değildir. Ancak bunlar hakkında kesin yargı anlamını taşıyan tefsire karşıdır. Zira onun sistemine göre tefsir yetkisi sadece Hz. Peygamber ve vahye tanık olmuş sahabenin hakkıdır. Hz. Peygamberden bu konuda sahih bir haber gelmediğine göre âlimler ancak bunları tevil edebilirler; yani bunların muhtemel anlamlarını ortaya koyarlar. O, bu harflerin daha çok, muhatabın dikkatini çekme fonksiyonu üzerinde durmakta ve bunlarla ilgili, Hz. Muhammed’in nübüvvetini ispat sadedinde özgün yorumlara yer vermektedir. Onun tefsirinde, başka eserlerde benzerine rastlamadığımız iki görüş yer almaktadır. Bunlardan biri, bu harflerin tefsirinin, devamındaki cümle olduğuna dair yorumdur. Mâtürîdî bunu Hasan-ı Basrî’den nakletmektedir. Ancak ne ondan önceki ne de sonraki kaynaklarda buna benzer bir yorumla karşılaşılmamıştır. Mâtürîdî’nin, Taberî ve İbn Ebî Hâtim gibi erken dönem tefsir rivayetlerini derleyen âlimlerin bile yer vermediği bu ve benzeri görüşleri aktarması, onun tefsirinin, bazı ayetler hakkında nadir karşılaşılan yorumlar için ihmal edilmemesi gereken bir kaynak olduğunu göstermektedir. Mukattaa harfleri ile ilgili Mâtürîdî’nin özgün yorumu ise bu harflerin, Hz. Muhammed’in peygamberliğini ispat sadedinde, Kur’an’da yer verilen aklî delil ve hüccetlerden ya da kıssalardan, veyahut önceki kitaplardan kinaye oluşudur. Mukattaa harfleri ile ilgili yorumları derleyen gerek klasik gerekse son dönem eserlerinde böyle bir görüşe tesadüf edilmemiştir. Bu da aslında Mâtürîdî tefsirinin tarih boyunca ne kadar ihmal edildiğinin bir göstergesidir.

En l'última dècada, la traducció automàtica (TA) ha augmentat la seva presència no només en el sector de la traducció sinó també en el conjunt de la societat, en part pels bons resultats de qualitat obtinguts per la traducció automàtica neuronal (TAN). Actualment, els models massius de llenguatge (MML) com ara GPT (Generic Pre-trained Transformer) poden generar text sobre una infinitat de temes diferents i també traduir documents tenint en compte un context més ampli. Tot i així, per a idiomes estretament relacionats, com ara l'espanyol i el català, la traducció automàtica basada en regles (TABR) s'utilitza diàriament per traduir milers de paraules. Aquest article estudia la TAN, TABR i GPT del castellà al català, dues llengües romàniques amb una estructura molt semblant en les quals els sistemes de TABR han demostrat un bon rendiment. Utilitzem un challenge test set centrat en la resolució d'anàfores, específicament els pronoms febles, un grup de pronoms que no tenen una correlació directa entre les dues llengües. Com que els models de TABR només tenen en compte la informació a nivell de frase, només estudiem les aparicions intraoracionals. L'objectiu és avaluar un fenomen sintàctic complex que ens pot ajudar a entendre quin dels tres sistemes tradueix més bé els elements contextuals. Els resultats mostren que els dos models GPT provats són els que produeixen el nombre més baix d'errors, seguit dels sistemes de TAN. Tot i així, el nombre de traduccions errònies en el millor sistema és del 47%, cosa que contrasta amb els bons resultats d'avaluació generals que s'obtenen per a aquest parell de llengües.

SnO2 and tantalum doped SnO2 (TTO) thin films were prepared using reactive hollow cathode gas flow sputtering (GFS) on glass substrates. An in-situ heating process under vacuum preceded the sputtering. The resistivity of the tin oxide films was reduced to a remarkable low of 2.02 × 10−3 Ω cm, with a carrier concentration of 2.55 × 1020 cm−3 and a mobility of 12.11 cm2V−1s−1. As the substrate temperature increased, the film resistivity decreased. Notably, at a substrate temperature of 270 °C, the effect of Ta doping on the film resistivity and carrier concentration was significantly stronger compared to higher temperatures. Elevating the substrate temperature and Ta doping resulted in a lower refractive index (n). This effect was consistently strong at higher temperatures, attributed to the higher film-free carrier concentration (4.54 × 1020 cm−3) compared to lower temperatures (2.35 × 1020 cm−3). The film's structure was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and atomic force microscope (AFM). The preferred direction of film growth was discussed. The successful and reproducible fabrication of tin oxide films underscores the advantages of gas flow sputtering (GFS) technology. GFS offers stable operating conditions across various oxygen flow levels without requiring target oxidization control, as is required in magnetron sputtering when managing gas status and film quality.

Kur’ân-ı Kerîm’in en belirgin vasıflarından birisi, edebî ve belâğî açıdan i’câz düzeyinde ilahi bir kitap oluşudur. Kur’ân’ın i’câzıyla ilgili erken dönem çalışmaları, daha ziyade onun bu yönüyle ilgilidir. Bulunduğu dönemin genel yapısına uygun olarak İbn Kuteybe, çeşitli açılardan Kur’ân’ın bir savunusu niteliğinde olan Te’vîlü Müşkili’l-Kur’ân isimli eserinde çok sayıda âyeti Arap dilbilimi ve retoriği açısından incelemektedir. Müellifin, eserdeki asıl gayesinin Kur’ân’da çelişki ve dilsel hatalar olduğu iddialarına edebî ve belâğî açıdan cevap vermek olduğu düşünüldüğünde, eserin i’câz açısından incelenmesi önem arz etmektedir. Buradan hareketle eserde geçen konu başlıkları ve eserin sistematiği dikkate alınarak İbn Kuteybe’nin i’câzu’l-Kur’ân ilmine ne tür katkıları olduğu tespit edilmeye çalışılmaktadır. Hicrî dördüncü asırda müstakil bir ilim hüviyetini elde eden i’câzu’l-Kur’ân ilminin ilk nüvelerinin erken dönemlerden itibaren oluşmaya başladığı görülmektedir. Hicrî ikinci asırda âyetleri çeşitli açılardan araştırma konusu yapan eserlerde, Kur’ân’ın edebî i’cazıyla ilgili işaretlerin varlığı da bu tespiti desteklemektedir. Özellikle âyetleri dil bilimsel açıdan inceleyen eserlerde sistematik olmamakla birlikte, âyetler üzerinde yapılan retorik analizlerde Kur’ân’ın i’câzıyla ilgili somut bilgiler bulunmaktadır. İ’câzu’l-Kur’ân ilmi açısından henüz teşekkül süreci olarak değerlendirilebilecek bu evre, söz konusu ilme temel teşkil etmesi açısından önem arz etmektedir. Hicrî üçüncü asra gelindiğinde ise benzer durumun devam ettiği, i’câzu’l-Kur’ân’ın henüz müstakil bir ilim hüviyetini elde etmediği görülmektedir. Ancak bir önceki dönemden farklı olarak bu dönemde telif edilen eserlerde, Kur’ân’ın i’câzına temel oluşturacak edebî ve belâğî kavramlar ile bunlarla ilişkili bilgilerin biraz daha belirginleştiği ifade edilebilir. Özellikle âyetlerin edebî ve belâğî hususiyetlerini önceleyen eserler, bir sonraki asırda bağımsız olan bu ilmin gelişim sürecine kaynak teşkil etmişlerdir. Şüphesiz bunlar arasında muhteva açısından oldukça zengin olmakla birlikte daha ziyade Arap dili temelinde inşa edilen Te’vîlü Müşkili’l-Kur’ân’ın ayrı bir yeri vardır. Söz konusu eseri bu alanda öne çıkaran başlıca faktör, i’câzın gerek teorik gerekse uygulama açısından henüz başlangıç evresinde olduğu hicrî ikinci asır ile bağımsız bir ilim formuna dönüştüğü dördüncü asır arasında köprü işlevi görmesidir. Kendisinden sonra telif edilen i’câzu’l-Kur’ân’la ilgili ilk eserlerin temel kaynakları arasında yer alması da buna delalet etmektedir. Genelde erken dönem tefsir çalışmaları özelde i’câz çalışmaları açısından Te’vîlu Müşkili’l-Kur’ân’ı bulunduğu dönemde öne çıkaran başlıca faktörlerden biri, zahiren müşkil addedilen çok sayıda âyetle ilgili retorik tahlillere yer vermesidir. Bunların hatırı sayılır kısmının Kur’ân’ın edebî i’câzıyla ilgili olduğu dikkate alındığında, eserin i’câzu’l-Kur’ân ilmi açısından önemi kendiliğinden ortaya çıkmaktadır. İbn Kuteybe’ye göre, Arapçanın edebî incelikleri Kur’ân-ı Kerim’de en mükemmel bir biçimde ortaya çıkmaktadır. Bununla birlikte kendine özgü mecâz üslubuyla Arapçanın diğer dillerden üstün olduğu fikri, onun i’câz yaklaşımının diğer bir boyutunu oluşturmaktadır. Zira bu noktadan hareketle kutsal kitaplardan farklı olarak Kur’ân’ın başka bir dile tercümesini mümkün görmemektedir. Onun bu düşüncesi ayrıca, i’câz perspektifinin son derece kapsamlı olduğuna işaret etmektedir. Her ne kadar teorik izahlara çok fazla girmese de mecâz, istiâre, maklûb, hazf, ihtisâr, tekrâr, ziyâde, kinâye, ta’rîd vb. konu başlıkları altında yer verdiği örnek âyetler üzerinde yaptığı tahlillerde i’câza dair somut bilgiler görmek mümkündür.

The subfamily Luciolinae Lacordaire, 1857, a group of flashing fireflies, is composed of approximately 400 described species in the world. Though the taxonomy of this group has been fairly well established in Southeast (SE) Asia and the Australopacific Region, there is scope of gathering further information regarding taxonomic knowledge on this group from India. Until now, 32 Luciolinae species from nine genera have been reported from India, which is only about 8% (32 out of 400) of the world Luciolinae fauna. With this in mind, several faunistic surveys were conducted in Odisha and West Bengal States of India to explore the firefly fauna of the two States.The faunistic surveys conducted in the Odisha and West Bengal States of India have revealed six new distributional records of Luciolinae firefly species belonging to the genera Abscondita Ballantyne, Lambkin & Fu 2013, Asymmetricata Ballantyne 2009, Pteroptyx Olivier 1902 and Sclerotia Ballantyne 2016 in the two States, earlier which were recorded from other States of India. Of the already recorded species, Abs. perplexa is recorded for the first time from both the States, whereas Abs. chinensis, Asy. ovalis and Scl. aquatilis present new records for Odisha State and Pt. malaccae and Scl. substriata for West Bengal State. The newly-recorded taxa are presented with their examined materials, diagnoses and brief biological notes. Some more distinguishing characters were added for the male genitalia of Abs. perplexa and Asy. ovalis. Further, a checklist of Luciolinae firefly species already recorded from India is also presented.

A modern method of anchorage provision, orthodontic mini-implants appear to provide a number of advantages for both complex and anchorage-demanding orthodontic cases. This review aimed to collect data about the risk of fracture of the mini-implants in orthodontics. The main topic in the mini-implant studies is addressed to the risk of fracture because of the inappropriate selection of mini-implants from the point of view of diameter, length, type of alloy, or insertion angle.

Wenjie Liu,&ast; Lichun Yang,&ast; Jiewei Liu Cataract Department, Shanxi Eye Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Jiewei Liu, Email jieweiliu1967@163.comPurpose: This study aimed to evaluate the changes in posterior corneal astigmatism after cataract surgery and provide a theoretical basis to accurately evaluate the total corneal astigmatism (TA) to be corrected before toric intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.Patients and Methods: Sixty-two patients (89 eyes) who underwent phacoemulsification combined with toric IOL implantation (AcrySof IQ Toric SN6AT2-T9) at Shanxi Eye Hospital between January 2017 and September 2018 were enrolled. Surgically induced astigmatism of the posterior cornea (SIAPA) was analysed using vector analysis during pentacam examination.Results: The vector variances of keratometric astigmatism (KA), TA, and posterior corneal astigmatism (PA) preoperatively and postoperatively in the “with-the-rule (WTR) astigmatism” group and “overall patient” group were statistically significant (P < 0.05). A statistically significant difference was observed between surgically induced KA (SIAKA) and surgically induced astigmatism of the total cornea (SIATA) for all patients, including those with WTR astigmatism. For all patients, SIAKA was less than SIATA by 0.05 ± 0.21 D, and for patients with WTR astigmatism, SIAKA was less than SIATA by 0.09 ± 0.22 D. For patients in the “against-the-rule (ATR) astigmatism” group, there were no statistically significant differences between SIAKA and SIATA, although SIAKA was greater than SIATA by 0.03 ± 0.18 D. When PA ≤ 0.4 D or KA ≤ 2.0 D, SIAPA can be ignored. However, when PA > 0.4 D or KA > 2.0 D, ignoring SIAPA caused by cataract surgery incision will cause SIAKA in patients with WTR astigmatism to underestimate SIATA, while SIAKA in patients with ATR astigmatism will cause an overestimation of SIATA.Conclusion: SIA on the posterior corneal astigmatism may have a significant role on more precise planning of toric IOL implantation, especially in cases with higher preoperative anterior or posterior corneal astigmatism.Keywords: surgically induced astigmatism, SIA, posterior corneal astigmatism, PA, keratometric astigmatism, KA, total corneal astigmatism, TA

Societies are facing the challenge of increasing multiple crisis situations, such as the consequences of global climate change, armed conflicts, or pandemics. Policy makers are challenged to find appropriate answers to questions about how to deal with future threats. In the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous experiences were gained with early warning systems used in this context. Based on these experiences, this article discusses how early warning in the political sphere can be improved in the future.

Abstract Background Although the benefits of evidence-based practices (EBPs) for advancing community outcomes are well-recognized, challenges with the uptake of EBPs are considerable. Technical assistance (TA) is a core capacity building strategy that has been widely used to support EBP implementation and other community development and improvement efforts. Yet despite growing reliance on TA, no reviews have systematically examined the evaluation of TA across varying implementation contexts and capacity building aims. This study draws on two decades of peer-reviewed publications to summarize the evidence on the evaluation and effectiveness of TA. Methods Guided by Arksey and O’Malley’s six-stage methodological framework, we used a scoping review methodology to map research on TA evaluation. We included peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2000 and 2020. Our search involved five databases: Business Source Complete, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), PsycInfo, and PubMed. Results A total of 125 evaluation research studies met the study criteria. Findings indicate that publications have increased over the last two decades, signaling a growth in the recognition and reporting of TA. Technical assistance is being implemented across diverse settings, often serving socially vulnerable and under-resourced populations. Most evaluation research studies involved summative evaluations, with TA outcomes mostly reported at the organizational level. Only 5% of the studies examined sustainability of TA outcomes. This review also demonstrates that there is a lack of consistent standards regarding the definition of TA and the level of reporting across relevant TA evaluation categories (e.g., cadence of contact, and directionality). Conclusions Advances in the science and practice of TA hinge on understanding what aspects of TA are effective and when, how, and for whom these aspects of TA are effective. Addressing these core questions requires (i) a standard definition for TA; (ii) more robust and rigorous evaluation research designs that involve comparison groups and assessment of direct, indirect, and longitudinal outcomes; (iii) increased use of reliable and objective TA measures; and (iv) development of reporting standards. We view this scoping review as a foundation for improving the state of the science and practice of evaluating TA.

Viniculture in colder countries requires the use of rootstocks adapted to the climatic and soil conditions, which influence the essential characteristics of the vine yield in terms of the physiological and morphological features. The current study was carried out in 2015-2018 in southern Poland to examine the impact of the '5BB', '125AA', '101-14M', 'SO4' and 'Börner' rootstocks on the growth, yield and fruit quality of three grape varieties: 'Seyval Blanc', 'Johanniter' and 'Solaris'. The following biometric parameters were compared: the increment in the trunk cross-sectional area, number of inflorescences on the vine, total yield, mean weight of a cluster and chemical parameters, such as the total soluble solid (TSS) content and grape titratable acidity (TA). The cluster weight of the individual varieties was also assessed in eight categories by weight (0-700 g). The results showed that 'Solaris' and 'Johanniter' grafted onto 'Börner' and 'Seyval Blanc' onto '5BB' had significantly increased trunk diameters. For the 'Solaris' cultivar, the 'Börner' rootstock increased the TSS volume by 8.2%. In the 'Seyval Blanc' cultivar, '125AA' and 'Börner' reduced the TSS content and increased the content of TA in the berries. In the 'Johanniter' cultivar, the 'Börner' rootstock led to an increase in the TSS content with a concomitant increase in the TA.

ABSTRACT Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) have emerged as a viable platform to engage large numbers of students in real-world scientific practices. Historically, CUREs have been offered throughout science, technology, engineering, and mathematics curricula at both the introductory and advanced levels and have been facilitated by a variety of individuals, including faculty members, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate teaching assistants (GTAs). This latter population, in particular, has increasingly been tasked with facilitating CUREs, yet they often receive little meaningful professional development to improve pedagogical skills vital to this type of instruction. To address this disparity, we designed and evaluated a semester-long intervention to support GTAs (N = 7) responsible for leading CUREs at our institution during the Fall 2020 semester. Intervention activities included synchronous interactive discussions, reflective journaling, and asynchronous practical exercises. Analysis of retrospective postintervention survey responses and focus group interview data revealed that participants exhibited gains in their understanding of the dimensions of CUREs, strategies for mentoring undergraduates, and use of various pedagogical techniques as well as confidence in addressing and adopting those dimensions and strategies in their courses. Furthermore, participants reported finding value in the sense of community created through the intervention, which served as a means to share ideas and struggles throughout the term.

Kur’ân-ı Kerim hiç kuşkusuz ilahi öğretilerin en sonuncusu ve en mükemmelidir. Bu yüce kitap, özellikle kıyamete kadar hükümlerinin geçerli olmasıyla mükemmel bir i’caz özelliğine sahip olmakla beraber üslup ve muhteva açısından da birçok eşsiz özelliği bünyesinde bulundurmaktadır. Kur’ân-ı Kerîm, her şeyden önce insanlardan o’nu iyice anlamalarını ve hayatlarında yaşamalarını istemektedir. Yaşamaları için öncelikle o’nun insanlara verdiği mesajlarını doğru bir şekilde anlamaları gerekir. O’nu iyi anlamaları için ya o’nun kullandığı dili bilmeleri ya da tercümeler vasıtasıyla o’nu anlamaya çalışmaları gerekmektedir. Tüm insanların Arapçayı bilmesi pratikte pek mümkün olmadığı aşikârdır. Zira insanlar Allah’ın hikmeti gereği farklı dil, kültür ve ırklara sahiptirler. Bundan dolayı dünyada farklı dillerde konuşan milletler Kur’ân-ı Kerîm’in ne demek istediğini anlayabilmek ve o’nun hükümlerini hayatlarına uygulayabilmek için Kur’ân-ı Kerîm’i kendi dillerine çevirmişlerdir. Hz. Muhammed (s.a.v.) zamanında Kur’ân-ı Kerîm’in farklı dillere kısmen tercüme edildiği bir vakıadır. Nitekim Selmân-ı Fârisî’nin (öl. 36/656 [?]) (r.a.) Fatiha sûresini Farsçaya tercüme etmesi ve Efendimizin (s.a.v.) farklı dilleri konuşan toplumları İslam’a davet etmek için yazdırdığı mektuplardaki âyetleri tercüme ettirmesi bu duruma örnek olarak gösterilebilir. Kur’ân-ı Kerîm, vahyedildiği dönemden itibaren günümüze kadar dünyanın farklı dillerine birçok kez tefsir, meal ve tercüme edilmiştir. Dünya hayatı sona erene kadar insanlar farklı dilleri konuştukları sürece Kur’ân-ı Kerîm’i tercüme faaliyetinin de devam edeceğinde hiç şüphe yoktur. Kur’ân-ı Kerîm’in Kazakçaya ilk tercümesi ise 20. asrın başlarında Mûsâ Cârullah (öl. 1368/1949) tarafından yapıldığı kaynaklarda geçmektedir. Fakat bu tercüme eser basılmayıp yalnızca el yazması olarak kalmıştır. Önemli bir diğer husus ise âlimlerin söz konusu tercümenin diliyle iligili düşünceleridir. Nitekim onlara göre mealin dili Kazakça değil, Tatarcadır. 20. Asırda Hazırlanan Kazakça Meâllerde Müteşâbih İfadelerin Çevirisi Problemi adlı bu çalışmada 20. asırda hazırlanan Halife Altay’ın (öl. 1424/2003) Kuran Şarif Kazakşa Mağına Jane Tüsinigi, Aziz Akıtulı (öl. 1434/2013) ve Makaş Akıtulı’nın (öl. 1424/2003) Kuran Karim Kazakşa Avdarması, Nurali Öserov (öl. 1435/2014) ve Cumabay İstayev’in (öl. 1422/2001) Kuran Karim Jane Onın Kazakşa Mağınası, Ratbek Nısanbayulı ve Vahap Kıdırhanulı’nın Kuran Karim ve Vahap Kıdırhanulı’nın Kuran Karim Kazakşa Mağına Jane Tüsinigi adlı beş önemli Kazakça meâl çalışması incelenmiştir. İlk olarak müelliflerinin hayatları daha sonra o çalışmaların genel değerlendirmeleri, yayınlanan eserlerin dili, metod ve muhteva bakımından problem oluşturan yönleri ve teknik özellikleri ele alınmaya çalışılmış; bir sonraki adımda ise mütercimlerin Kur’ân-ı Kerîm’deki müteşâbih ifadelerden olan haberî sıfatları Kazakçaya nasıl tercüme ettiklerine ve söz konusu tercümelerin ortaya çıkardığı problemlere değinilmiştir. İslâm dininin ilim geleneğinde önemli bir yer tutan tefsir ilminin en önemli konusu ve meselelerinden birisi, hiç kuşkusuz Kur’ân’daki müteşâbihler meselesi olup, konu tarihsel süreçte başta kelâmcılar olmak üzere pek çok ilmî gelenekte ele alınmış ve tartışılmıştır. Bütün âlemleri var eden Yüce Allah kendisini tanımamız ve nasıl bir varlık olduğu noktasında bilgi sahibi olmamız için insanlara bazı sıfatlarını Kur’ân-ı Kerîm’de bildirmektedir. Allah vahiy yoluyla kullarının anlayabileceği bir dille ve bu dilin imkânları içerisinde teşbih ve mecazlar sayesinde zâtını kullarına tanıtmıştır. Bu tanıtım Hz. Peygamberin (s.a.v.) hadisleri aracılığıyla da gerçekleşmiştir. Dolayısıyla bu iki kaynak Allah’ın sıfatlarını bizlere haber vermektedir. Haberî sıfatlar, âyet ve hadislerde bildirilen ve haberle sabit olan sıfatları ifade eder. Bu makalede Allah’a izafe edilen yed, vech, ayn, istiva, kabza, mecî’ ve etâ gibi müteşâbih ifadelerden olan haberî sıfatların geçtiği on bir âyet örnek olarak ele alınmıştır. Allah’ın sıfatlarını doğru bir şekilde anlamak sahih ve tahkîkî imana sahip olma açısından çok önemlidir. Bu çalışma, Kazak mütercimlerin müteşâbih ifadeleri ne tür bir kelami görüşle Kazakçaya tercüme ettiklerini ortaya çıkarmayı hedeflemektedir. Ayrıca çalışmada, müteşâbih ifadeleri Kur’ân ve hadis ilimlerinin çizdiği sınırlar çerçevesinde teşbihe ve tecsime düşmeden, insan aklının kabul edebileceği ifadeler ile anlamlandırılması gerektiği ifade edilmiştir. 20. asırda Kazakistan’da yapılan Kazakça meâllerdeki müteşâbih ifadelerin Kazakçaya tercümesi meselesiyle ilgili herhangi bir çalışmaya rastlanmamıştır. Makalemiz bu konuda yapılan ilk çalışma olması hasebiyle önem arz etmektedir.

While imprisonment (Habs) is the most common criminal response in the criminal law system of the Islamic Republic, its recognition and legitimacy remain contested since the victory of the Islamic Revolution. The authority of imprisonment (Habs) as ta'zir and its limits has been debated by Imami scholars. This is a point of view and is open to review. The first mission of this article is to analyze the opinions of jurists regarding the legitimacy and limits of the application of this punishment. A selected view on the illegitimacy of the prison sentence (Habs) was selected after presenting this subject. As a result of proving this assertion, a new theory will dominate the penal system in the country, and that theory is that punishments should be minimally incarcerated. According to this theory, the legislator should determine this punishment in a confined manner and in cases of necessity. It is not possible to extend it to a wide range of crimes. In this article, the argumentative approach will be to discuss both the lexical meaning of the word imprisonment (Habs) and the Qur'anic meaning - as well as to examine the central emphasis of fundamentalism in the interpretation of texts and the philosophy of punishment legislation. Developments in the criminal law of the Islamic Republic in the field of the use of prison sentences have also been discussed in the present study.

Tenuazonic acid (TA) is a highly toxic mycotoxin mainly generated by the fungi of Alternaria genus and widely contaminates agricultural by-products. Given the threat of TA to food-security, it is very important to develop rapid and sensitive detection methods for TA monitoring. In this study, gold nano-particles (AuNP) with average diameter near 17.25 nm were prepared, and the developed AuNP-based strip has an assay time of 15 min with visual limit of detection (LOD) of 12.5 ng/ml and threshold of 100 ng/ml. To further improve sensitivity, multi-branched gold nano-flowers (AuNF) with average diameter near 50 nm were prepared and characterized by UV-VIS and TEM, and the established AuNF-based strip has visual LOD of 0.78 ng/ml and threshold of 50 ng/ml within 15 min. Both assays were applied to determine TA in apple juice and tomato ketchup, and the results were consistent with that of UHPLC-MS/MS. Thus, these assays could be applied for rapid determination of trace TA in real samples.

The variation of fruit among batches influences the performance of the portable near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) instrument and then determines the success or failure for practical application in fruit industry. Model development and update methods were investigated for determining soluble solids contents (SSC) and titrable acidity (TA) of navel orange. The pretreatment and variable selection methods were explored for building partial least square regression (PLSR) models. The best models, developed by the combination of second derivative (2D) and variable sorting for normalization (VSN), could predict SSC but not TA. The root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP), coefficient of determination for prediction (Rp2) and ratio of prediction to deviation (RPD) for SSC were 0.66 °Brix, 0.66 and 1.73. Model maintain methods of model update (MU) and slope and bias correction (SBC) achieved the best results in predicting SSC for two external validation sets with Rp2, RMSEP and RPD of 0.54, 0.83 °Brix, 1.60 and 0.52, 0.83 °Brix, 1.65, respectively. The results suggested model development and update with MU and SBC could improve the robustness of the portable NIRS instrument in predicting SSC of navel orange.

Diplotemnus balcanicus (Redikorzev, 1928) is reported for the second time from Slovakia. The species was first recorded from Slovakia in 1955 when two specimens were found in bat guano on the loft inside a church. After 65 years, one male was discovered inside a private family home 8 km from the 1955 record. The original 1955 material of D. balcanicus, from a private collection, has been revised. Additionally, a short description of the male of D. balcanicus and some identification notes on Eurasian diplotemnids are provided.

Abstract Phase-change memory (PCM) has considerable promise for new applications based on von Neumann and emerging neuromorphic computing systems. However, a key challenge in harnessing the advantages of PCM devices is achieving high-speed operation of these devices at elevated temperatures, which is critical for the efficient processing and reliable storage of data at full capacity. Herein, we report a novel PCM device based on Ta-doped antimony telluride (Sb2Te), which exhibits both high-speed characteristics and excellent high-temperature characteristics, with an operation speed of 2 ns, endurance of > 106 cycles, and reversible switching at 140 °C. The high coordination number of Ta and the strong bonds between Ta and Sb/Te atoms contribute to the robustness of the amorphous structure, which improves the thermal stability. Furthermore, the small grains in the three-dimensional limit lead to an increased energy efficiency and a reduced risk of layer segregation, reducing the power consumption and improving the long-term endurance. Our findings for this new Ta–Sb2Te material system can facilitate the development of PCMs with improved performance and novel applications.

For the different random access requirements of the mixed scenarios of ultra-reliable low latency (URLLC) and massive machine type communications (mMTC) in MTC,a random access scheme based on devices grouping was proposed.The proposed scheme divided the MTC devices into several groups based on the timing advance (TA) information:for the URLLC scenario,preamble resources were reserved for core devices in each group,and the URLLC devices accessed the network via the contention-free mechanism,to satisfy the ultra-reliable low latency access requirement; for the mMTC scenario,the base station utilized the different TA information in different group to identify devices selecting the same preamble,and performed successive interference cancellation (SIC) algorithm to detect the data information,to satisfy the massive access requirement.Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed scheme can significantly increase the number of the successful devices.

For the different random access requirements of the mixed scenarios of ultra-reliable low latency (URLLC) and massive machine type communications (mMTC) in MTC,a random access scheme based on devices grouping was proposed.The proposed scheme divided the MTC devices into several groups based on the timing advance (TA) information:for the URLLC scenario,preamble resources were reserved for core devices in each group,and the URLLC devices accessed the network via the contention-free mechanism,to satisfy the ultra-reliable low latency access requirement; for the mMTC scenario,the base station utilized the different TA information in different group to identify devices selecting the same preamble,and performed successive interference cancellation (SIC) algorithm to detect the data information,to satisfy the massive access requirement.Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed scheme can significantly increase the number of the successful devices.

Abstract We present experimentally determined trace element partition coefficients (D) between pyrochlore-group minerals (Ca2(Nb,Ta)2O6(O,F)), Ca fersmite (CaNb2O6), and silicate melts. Our data indicate that pyrochlores and fersmite are able to strongly fractionate trace elements during the evolution of SiO2-undersaturated magmas. Pyrochlore efficiently fractionates Zr and Hf from Nb and Ta, with DZr and DHf below or equal to unity, and DNb and DTa significantly above unity. We find that DTa pyrochlore-group mineral/silicate melt is always higher than DNb, which agrees with the HFSE partitioning of all other Ti–rich minerals such as perovskite, rutile, ilmenite or Fe-Ti spinel. Our experimental partition coefficients also show that, under oxidizing conditions, DTh is higher than corresponding DU and this implies that pyrochlore-group minerals may fractionate U and Th in silicate magmas. The rare earth element (REE) partition coefficients are around unity, only the light REE are compatible in pyrochlore-group minerals, which explains the high rare earth element concentrations in naturally occurring magmatic pyrochlores.

Fe-based materials have extensive applications in the building and automobile industries due to their excellent mechanical properties and low cost. However, their biomedical employment is restricted by the corrosion propensity when in contact with bodily fluids. In this study, single-step Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation, PEO, treatment in Ta-rich electrolyte was used, for the first time, to improve the corrosion resistance of low-carbon steel SAE 1020 for possible use as device implants. The effect of the applied voltage on the chemical and phase composition, topography, wettability, roughness, and corrosion properties were addressed. The results indicated that the Fe-based oxide coatings had a rough and hydrophilic surface, increasing the Ta content with the applied potential. The phase composition of the coatings was mainly composed of hematite (Fe2O3), with the Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy, FTIR, spectrums indicating the presence of some absorbed water and organic molecules. The corrosion resistance of the PEO-treated samples was better than the substrate against saline solution (0.9% NaCl) due to the Fe2O3 growth decorated with Ta particles, especially the sample treated at 200 V. The results state that Ta-enriched Fe-based oxide coatings could significantly improve the applicability of low-carbon steel SAE 1020 as a low-cost biomaterial, particularly for medical devices.

Background: This paper presents learnings from the Re-Imagining Technical Assistance for Maternal, Neonatal, and Child Health and Health Systems Strengthening (RTA) project implemented in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Nigeria from April 2018 to September 2020 by JSI Research & Training Institute, Inc. and Sonder Collective and managed by the Child Health Task Force. The first of RTA’s two phases involved multiple design research activities, such as human-centered design and co-creation, while the second phase focused on secondary analysis of interviews and reports from the design research. This paper explores the limitations of current technical assistance (TA) approaches and maps opportunities to improve how TA is planned and delivered in the health sector. Methods: We analyzed project reports and 68 interviews with TA funders, providers, and consumers to explore in greater detail their perspectives on TA, its characteristics and drawbacks as well as opportunities for improvement. We used qualitative content analysis techniques for this study. Results: The issues surrounding TA included the focus on donor-driven agendas over country priorities, poor accountability between and within TA actors, inadequate skill transfer from TA providers to government TA consumers, an emphasis on quick fixes and short-term thinking, and inadequate governance mechanisms to oversee and manage TA. Consequently, health systems do not achieve the highest levels of resilience and autonomy. Conclusions: Participants in project workshops and interviews called for a transformation in TA centered on a redistribution of power enabling governments to establish their health agendas in keeping with the issues that are of greatest importance to them, followed by collaboration with donors to develop TA interventions. Recommended improvements to the TA landscape in this paper include nine critical shifts, four domains of change, and 20 new guiding principles.

BACKGROUND Mixed acid open acid dissolution and alkali fusion methods are the two main dissolution methods for determination of rare earth and refractory elements in geological samples by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). However, the composition of geological samples is complex. For special elements and special samples, the traditional acid-dissolving method will cause incomplete digestion of some elements, which makes the measurement results inaccurate. The operation process of the alkali fusion method is cumbersome. The solution has high salinity, which can easily cause matrix interference and block the sample introduction system. OBJECTIVES To improve the traditional four-acid and penta-acid systems in the determination of rare earth elements. METHODS The hydrofluoric acid-nitric acid-sulfuric acid open acid solution system was used to determine the 15 rare earth elements by using the national standard material to prepare a standard curve. At the same time, the lithium metaborate alkali fusion method was improved. The sample was extracted with lithium metaborate alkali, and the solution was added to the alkaline condition by adding sodium hydroxide. The measured element was coprecipitated with lithium metaborate, and the flux was separated and filtered, and then reconstituted with nitric acid. Nineteen elements such as rare earth and lanthanum zirconium were measured. RESULTS The relative deviations between the measured value and the certified value of the two dissolution methods were 1.09%-9.30%. The results of determination of Nb, Ta, Zr and Hf by mixed acid open dissolution method and rare earth element by lithium metaborate alkali fusion method were compared with those of another laboratory that used closed acid dissolution methods. The relative deviations between the two groups were 0.13%-15.32%. CONCLUSIONS The mixed acid open dissolution method is suitable for the determination of rare earth elements in geological samples, whereas the lithium metaborate alkali fusion method is not only suitable for the determination of rare earth elements and Nb, Ta, Zr and Hf in geological samples, but also for the determination of Nb, Ta, Zr and Hf in ancient high pressure metamorphic rock samples and the sample with a high Al content.

AIM: To observe the changes of retina and choroid in macular region using EDI SD-OCT before and after phacoemulsification, and study the intervention and prevention effect of triamcinolone acetonide(TA)on macular edema.METHODS: In a prospective randomized clinical trial, selected the cataract patients with NPDR in our hospital. They were randomly divided into two groups. The experimental group(group 1)received Tenon's injection of TA 40mg during phacoemulsification, while the control group(group 2)only received phacoemulsification. The changes of best corrected visual acuity(BCVA), intraocular pressure(IOP), central macular retinal thickness(CMT), subfoveal choroidal thickness(SFCT)before and after surgery were observed.RESULTS: There were significant differences in BCVA between the two groups before and after operation(Pt=2.165, PPPP>0.05).The incidence of diabetic macular edema(DME)after surgery was 0 in group 1 and 11% in group 2.CONCLUSION: Posterior subfascial injection of TA in NPDR patients during phacoemulsification may have a positive preventive effect on the occurrence of DME.

Ninety-four species belonging to 12 genera of Araceae are recorded on Cerro Pirre (Darién Province): Adelonema Schott (two); Anthurium Schott (39), Chlorospatha Engl. (2), Dieffenbachia Schott (3); Heteropsis Kunth (1); Monstera Adans. (6); Philodendron Schott (28), Rhodospatha Poepp. (2); Spathiphyllum Schott (2); Stenospermation Schott (3); Syngonium Schott (4) and Xanthosoma Schott (2). Taxonomic notes, identification key and comments on habitat and ecology of the species are presented.

Biomass carbon dots (CDs) have the characteristics of being green, nontoxic, inexpensive, and simple to prepare, and they can be used in luminescence-related fields. In this study, red, green, and blue luminescent CDs were synthesised by a simple hydrothermal method under alkaline, neutral, and acidic conditions using TA as carbon source and o-phthalaldehyde as blend. The unique optical properties of these CDs are due to the differences in their degrees of conjugation, which can be controlled by the pH value of the reaction system. These three kinds of biomass CDs have good applications in light-emitting diodes (LEDs). By mixing biomass CDs with epoxy resin, warm, and cold white LEDs with Commission Internationale de l’Elcairage (CIE) coordinates (0.35, 0.36) were successfully constructed on extremely stable multicolour CDs. This study shows that these biomass CDs are a promising material for white LED lighting.

Bimetallic components welded by Ta and stainless steel have great promise for engineering applications, but there is relatively little relevant research. In this study, 0.6 mm-thick Ta and 304L stainless steel plates were laser welded, and the forming characteristics, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the welded joints were analyzed. First-principles calculations were also performed to explore the structural stabilization mechanisms of the two intermetallic compounds, TaFe2 and TaCr2, in terms of mechanical properties as well as electronic structure. The results showed that the weld surface was smooth and free from any defects. Fe-based solid solutions formed grains, while TaFe2, TaCr2, and some Fe-based solid solutions formed intergranular and eutectic structures. In addition, due to the presence of the brittle phases of TaFe2 and TaFe, the microhardness of the weld area can reach 650HV, with an average hardness of 530HV, which is much higher than that of the base material. The tensile shear of the joint at room temperature was 154.77 N/mm, and the fracture occurred in the weld zone on the steel side, showing brittle fracture. TaFe2 is a brittle intermetallic compound, while TaCr2 is ductile. Both TaFe2 and TaCr2 systems have dual properties of metallic and covalent bonding within them, and metallic bonding dominates.

Cadmium (Cd) is an inessential trace metal that accumulates in the kidney and may lead to renal toxicity by mediating oxidative stress (OS), inflammatory reactions, and apoptosis. The main objective of this experiment was to inspect the protecting potential of taxifolin (TA) on Cd-induced renal toxicity. Adult male mice were allocated into equal five groups as follows: control, TA-treated (50 mg/kg, oral), CdCl2-treated (4 mg/kg body weight (BW), p.o.), pretreated with TA (25 mg/kg) 1 h before CdCl2 injection (4 mg/kg BW, p.o.), and pretreated with TA (50 mg/kg) 1 h before CdCl2 injection (4 mg/kg BW, p.o.) for 14 days. Cd-intoxicated mice revealed higher serum urea and creatinine levels and notable histopathological alterations in the renal tissues. Malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p65, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and IL-1β were increased. In contrast, glutathione levels, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities, and IL-10 levels were decreased under Cd-administered effects. Conversely, the TA pre-treatment highly protected tissues from Cd-toxicity, improved renal function, decreased MDA and NO levels, attenuated inflammation, and improved redox status in the renal tissues of Cd-intoxicated mice. The TA pre-treatment of Cd-intoxicated mice showed down-regulation of both Bax and caspase-3 protein and up-regulation of Bcl-2 protein expression in the kidney. Furthermore, TA pre-treatment induced higher upregulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) expression in kidney cells of Cd-intoxicated mice. Therefore, TA can protect renal tissues against Cd-induced nephrotoxicity via improving redox status, modulating inflammation, diminishing cell apoptosis, and activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.

Industrial wastes, for instance, tannery wastes are rich soups of resistant and bioremediation-potent bacteria. In the present work, Chromium (Cr) and tannic acid (TA) resistance bacterial strains were isolated from tannery effluent and identified as Bacillus subtilis (MCC 3275) and Bacillus safensis (MCC 3283) based on its 16S Ribosomal RNA homology. Hexavalent Cr is highly toxic and mutagenic due to its high mobility and reactivity. Whereas, TA is known to inhibit enzyme activity, substrate deprivation, and interaction with membranes and matrix-metal ions. The developed In vitro co-cultured microcosm of B. subtilis and B. safensis was able to remove Cr(VI) up to 95% and TA up to 23%. The bacteria cultures separately were able to degrade Cr(VI) to 88% by B. subtilis and 91% by B. safensis and TA up to 27%. Plackett Burman design (PBD) followed by Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied for the optimization of physio-chemical parameters. The optimized conditions for co-culture development were recorded as K2HPO4 = 0.2 g/L, MgSO4 = 0.2 g/L, NH4Cl = 0.5 g/L, glucose – 0.2 g/L, TA – 5%, Cr = 200 ppm, incubation period of 96 h, agitation speed of 110 rpm, pH = 5.0, temperature= 30 °C and inoculum size = 3%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) revealed the thorough mechanism of cellular uptake followed by degradation of Cr(VI) and TA. The efficiency of co-culture for other heavy metals was observed as follows: Zn 65%, Pb 63%, Cd 65%, and Ni 65%. Bioremediation using bacteria is an economical and environmentally better alternative to conventional remediation methods. The isolated bacteria are useful in the effluent treatment of tannery or related industries and in metal recovery in mining processes.

The potential to increase passive transfer of specific Rhodococcus equi (R.equi) humoral immunity to newborn by preparturient vaccination of their dams was investigated in Pregnant Guinea pigs as a pilot study. Attenuated autogenous vaccine was prepared from a Congo red negative (CR-) R.equi local isolate mixed with adjuvant (potassium alum sulphate), tested for sterility, safety and potency prior to vaccination .Two groups of pregnant G. pigs were used, the first group was vaccinated twice subcutaneously (S.C) with the prepared vaccine at five and three weeks prior parturition, the second group was inoculated with adjuvant plus phosphate buffer saline (PBS) twice s.c and kept as control. Offspring from the vaccinated dams had revealed high titers of specific R. equi antibody as detected by tube agglutination (TA) and passive haemagglutination (PH) test and showed protection against challenge dose. The results revealed that vaccination of pregnant G. pigs with the prepared attenuated vaccine was safe and efficient method to protect their offspring against experimental challenge with virulent R.equi. Vaccination was associated with increased humoral immune response in vaccinated group.

We present the first record in Colombia of Prebaetodes meridinensis Chacón, Pescador & Segnini, 2010 based on nymphs collected in Andean region. This species was previously reported from Venezuela.

Ta/Ti/Ni/ceramic multilayered composites were successfully prepared by combustion synthesis. Laminated composites Ti–Ta–(Ti + 0.65C)–Ni–(Ti + 1.7B)–(Ti + 1.7B)–Ta–Ni-Ti and 3(Ti + 1.7B)–Ta–(5Ti + 3Si)–Ta–(Ti + 1.7B)–Ta–(5Ti + 3Si)–Ta–3(Ti + 1.7B) were combustion synthesized in an Ar atmosphere using (1) metallic foils (Ti, Ta, Ni) and (2) reactive tapes (Ti + 0.65C), (Ti + 1.7B), and (5Ti + 3Si), which, upon combustion, yielded ceramic layers as starting materials. The microstructure, crystal structure, and chemical composition of multilayered composites were characterized by SEM, EDX, and XRD. Their flexural strength was measured at 1100 °C. Upon combustion, Ta foils turned strongly joined with Ti ones due to the development of high temperature in the reactive layers yielding TiCx and TiBy. The formation of a liquid phase between metallic foils and reactive tapes and mutual interdiffusion between melted components during combustion favored strong joining between refractory metallic foils. Good joining between metals and ceramics is reached due to the formation of thin interfacial layers in the form of cermets and eutectic solutions.

This study is investigate to ecological characters, ethnopharmacology, total phenols (TP), flavonoids (TF), anthocyanins (TA) contentand antioxidant capacity in leaves and fruit of Vaccinium arctostaphylos L. from two natural habitats from Gilan provinve, which has been used as a heart tonic ,anti diabeteand anti tumor. Ecological requirements were obtained in many field observation, ethno pharmacological survey was carried out among the well known indigenous herbal practitioners (60-78 ages) in South west of Gilan. The leaves and fruits of Vaccinium arctostaphylos L. were collected from two natural habitats (Khotbe sara,1600 m and Asalem, 1300 m) during Sep to Oct 2013, respectively. Methanol extracts were obtained by maceration, TP, TF and TA were determined by spectro photometrically, antioxidant capacity were measured by total antioxidant capacity (TAC), reducing power (RP) and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) in compare of BHT and BHA antioxidant standard and Quersetin content was messured by HPLC method. Results were showed that Vaccinium arctostaphylos L. is usually wild grow in silty loam soils (1300-1600m) and its fruit was appeared from June to September .In both regions phenolic components had significant variation, ranging from TP content(263.17-471.26 mg GAEg-1),TF(186.18-289.17 mg QUE g-1) , TA (74.3- 145.29 mg CydEg-1 ) and quersetin content (136.13-218.2 ppm respectively in 1300-1600m. Generally the fruits extract especially in 1600m had more source of phenolic componds, so was showed better antioxidant capacity (IC50 value 2.98±0.51 µg/ml) to will be confirmed the traditional uses of plant in these regions as an good anti-inflammatory and anti diabetic.

The influence of energetic ion bombardment on the properties of tantalum coatings was studied. To achieve such energetic ion bombardment during the deposition process of tantalum coatings, a combination of deep oscillation magnetron sputtering (DOMS), an ionized physical vapour deposition technique, with substrate biasing was used. The substrate biasing was varied between 0 and −120 V. In this work, the structure (XRD), microstructure (SEM), surface morphology (AFM) and hardness, and Young’s modulus (nanoindentation) of the coatings were characterized. The results show with the use of such conditions it was possible to deposit a pure α-Ta (the most desired at industrial level) with improved mechanical properties (hardness equal to 22.4 GPa and Young’s modulus equal to 235 GPa). The roughness of the Ta coatings decreases up to values of about 1 nm with an increase of substrate biasing. It was possible to deposit very dense Ta coatings with 2 µm of thickness. Therefore, these results are significantly different than in previous works, offering Ta coatings with a combination of very interesting properties.

The electrochemical behavior of tantalum in various concentrations of KOH solutions (0.1 M - 10 M), was investigated using the evolution of the open circuit potential in time, cyclic voltammetry and ellipsometric measurements. Depending on KOH concentrations, the open circuit potential measurements have shown three distinct behaviors concerning oxide film formation on the electrode surface and its dissolution. The cyclic voltammetry measurements were performed in various potential ranges, from -1.4 to 8 V, different concentrations of KOH solutions (0.1-10 M) and sweep rates ranging from 0.005 V/s to 1 V/s. In the passive region, very stable passive films were formed, which reduction has not been possible during cathodic polarization even at highly concentrated KOH solutions. In the trans-passive region, the very strong peak at 1.65 V was monitored, which nature and chemical composition is still not well known.

Using the modified formalism of [Dorogokupets, Oganov, 2005, 2007], equations of state are developed for diamond, Ag, Al, Au, Cu, Mo, Nb, Pt, Ta, and W by simultaneous optimization of shock-wave data, ultrasonic, X-ray, dilatometric and thermochemical measurements in the temperature range from ~100 K to the melting temperature and pressures up to several Mbar, depending on the substance. The room-temperature isotherm is given in two forms: (1) the equation from [Holzapfel, 2001, 2010] which is the interpolation between the low pressure (x≥1) and the pressure at infinite compression (x=0); it corresponds to the Thomas-Fermi model, and (2) the equation from [Vinet et al., 1987]. The volume dependence of the Grüneisen parameter is calculated according to equations from [Zharkov, Kalinin, 1971; Burakovsky, Preston, 2004] with adjustable parameters, t and δ. The room-temperature isotherm and the pressure on the Hugoniot adiabat are determined by three parameters, K', t and δ, and K0 is calculated from ultrasonic measurements. In our study, reasonably accurate descriptions of all of the basic thermodynamic functions of metals are derived from a simple equation of state with a minimal set of adjustable parameters.The pressure calculated from room-temperature isotherms can be correlated with a shift of the ruby R1 line. Simultaneous measurements of the shift and unit cell parameters of metals are conducted in mediums containing helium [Dewaele et al., 2004b; 2008; Takemura, Dewaele, 2008; Takemura, Singh, 2006], hydrogen [Chijioke et al., 2005] and argon [Tang et al., 2010]. According to [Takemura, 2001], the helium medium in diamond anvil cells provides for quasi-hydrostatic conditions; therefore, the ruby pressure scale, that is calibrated for the ten substances, can be considered close to equilibrium or almost absolute. The ruby pressure scale is given as P(GPa)=1870⋅Δλ/λ0⋅(1+6⋅Δλ/λ0). The room-temperature isotherms corrected with regard to the ruby scale can also be considered close to equilibrium or almost absolute. Therefore, the equations of state of the nine metals and diamond, which are developed in our study, can be viewed as almost absolute equations of state for the quasi-hydrostatic conditions. In other words, these equations agree with each other, with the ruby pressure scale, and they are close to equilibrium in terms of thermodynamics. The PVT relations derived from these equations can be used as mutually agreed pressure scales for diamond anvil cells in studies of PVT properties of minerals in a wide range of temperatures and pressures. The error of the recommended equations of the state of substances and the ruby pressure scale is about 2 or 3 per cent. Calculated PVT relations and thermodynamics data are available at http://labpet.crust.irk.ru.

In this paper, the electrical and material properties of CuMn/silicon oxide (SiO2) and CuMn/tantalum (Ta)/SiO2 were investigated, and an optimized concentration of Mn in the CuMn alloy as barrier layers in these two structures was also determined. CuMn alloy (0~10 atomic % Mn) deposited on SiO2 and Ta were used in this paper. A diffusion barrier layer self-formed at the interface during annealing, and the growth behavior was found to follow a logarithmic rate law. The microstructures of the CuMn films were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy and could be correlated with the electrical properties of the CuMn films. After thermal treatment, only Cu-5 at.% Mn/ SiO2 successfully avoided the diffusion of Cu atoms. Thermal stability of the films grown on Ta/SiO2 was found to be better than that on SiO2. When a Ta layer was added, the Mn atoms diffused not only to the interface, but also to the grain boundaries in the Ta layer and the interface between Ta and SiO2. This phenomenon could be explained by the surface energy. As the thickness of CuMn shrunk from 150 to 50 nm and the sample was covered with a 100-nm-thick Cu layer, the amount of Mn atoms increased at the interface of CuMn/Ta. This is because the Cu layer had higher chemical potential which induced the Mn atoms to move toward the Ta layer and reduced the amount of Mn atoms in Cu after heat treatment.

Sự thay đổi đặc tính hóa lý theo độ tuổi thu hoạch từ 21 đến 57 ngày sau khi hoa rụng của quả thanh trà (Bouea macrophylla) trồng tại thị xã Bình Minh, tỉnh Vĩnh Long đã được tiến hành nghiên cứu. Kết quả cho thấy, có sự thay đổi về màu sắc vỏ quả từ xanh lá đến cam, thể hiện bởi sự suy giảm của giá trị L* và sự gia tăng của giá trị a*, trong khi đó độ màu b* khi đo bên ngoài vỏ giảm dần theo sự gia tăng độ tuổi và ngược lại khi đo đạc ở phần thịt quả. Khối lượng và kích thước quả tăng dần từ 21 đến 42 ngày và suy giảm không khác biệt ý nghĩa từ 42 đến 57 ngày, trong khi đó, tỷ lệ thịt quả đạt cao nhất từ 37 đến 50 ngày và giảm ở khoảng thời gian tiếp theo. Sự gia tăng của tổng hàm lượng chất khô hòa tan (TSS, %) và sự suy giảm của tổng số acid chuẩn độ (TA, %), theo đó là sự gia tăng của tỷ lệ TSS/TA được ghi nhận. Hàm lượng vitamin C (mg%) giảm từ 21 đến 42 ngày và tăng từ 42 đến 57 ngày. Kết quả nghiên cứu cho thấy, quá trình sinh trưởng và phát triển của thanh trà từ sau khi rụng cánh hoa đến 57 ngày có thể chia làm 2 giai đoạn: giai đoạn tăng trưởng (≤42 ngày) và giai đoạn chín thuần thục (42 ÷57 ngày).

Effects of alkaline earth metal elements and their synergistic roles with Ta for the modified Li _7 La _3 Zr _2 O _12 (LLZO) are discussed. Li _7.1 La _3 Zr _1.95 M _0.05 O _12 (M = Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba) with the substitution of alkaline earth metal ions for Zr ^4+ and Li _6.5 La _3 Zr _1.35 Ta _0.6 M _0.05 O _12 (M = Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba) with the co-substitution of alkaline earth metal ions and Ta ^5+ for Zr ^4+ are prepared. The sole substitution of alkaline earth metal elements for Zr in LLZO have little effects on improving ionic conductivity, while the modified LLZO with synergistically co-doping Ta and alkaline earth metal elements can achieve the great enhancement of ionic conductivity. The order of ionic conductivity influenced by Ta ^5+ and alkaline earth metal ions (Mg ^2+ , Ca ^2+ , Sr ^2+ , Ba ^2+ ) co-substitution for Zr ^4+ demonstrates a strong correlation with ionic radii of Mg ^2+ /Ca ^2+ /Sr ^2+ /Ba ^2+ . Particularly, the enhanced Li _6.5 La _3 Zr _1.35 Ta _0.6 Mg _0.05 O _12 with the joint substitution of Mg and Ta delivers a highest ionic conductivity of 3.45 × 10 ^−4 S cm ^−1 at room temperature.

A method to deal with the conditions of incomplete digestion of geological samples, and the complexity of the analysis for present technologies, along with the routine methods of wet digestion on constant temperature electric heating plate with mixed acids and Na2O2 fusion pre-treatment method and to ease the hydrolysis of Nb and Ta are describe in this paper. Both Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES) were applied to establish two sets of analysis methods which can be used to detect the contents of Nb and Ta in geochemical exploration samples and rare earth ores. Wet digestion on constant temperature electric heating plate is suitable for low content and easy decomposition of samples with nitric acid-hydrofluoric acid-sulfuric acid by ICP-MS. Na2O2 fusion pre-treatment method is suitable for high content and insoluble samples by using ICP-AES. Through the analysis of a series of national certified reference samples of soil, stream sediments, rocks and rare earth ores, the results show that mixed acid pre-treatment coupled with ICP-MS had a linear range of 0-200 ng/mL and detection limits of Nb and Ta were 0.01 μg/g and 0.05 μg/g, respectively. The relative error was less than 10%, and the relative standard deviation (RSD) was less than 6%. The Na2O2 fusion pre-treatment coupled with ICP-AES had a linear range of 0-30 μg/mL, detection limits of Nb and Ta were 0.2 μg/g and 2.5 μg/g, respectively. The relative error was less than 10%, and the precision (RSD) was less than 7%. The two sets of analysis method satisfy the demand of analysis of Nb and Ta in samples with a complex matrix, a large range of content and large quantities of samples.

A method to deal with the conditions of incomplete digestion of geological samples, and the complexity of the analysis for present technologies, along with the routine methods of wet digestion on constant temperature electric heating plate with mixed acids and Na2O2 fusion pre-treatment method and to ease the hydrolysis of Nb and Ta are describe in this paper. Both Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES) were applied to establish two sets of analysis methods which can be used to detect the contents of Nb and Ta in geochemical exploration samples and rare earth ores. Wet digestion on constant temperature electric heating plate is suitable for low content and easy decomposition of samples with nitric acid-hydrofluoric acid-sulfuric acid by ICP-MS. Na2O2 fusion pre-treatment method is suitable for high content and insoluble samples by using ICP-AES. Through the analysis of a series of national certified reference samples of soil, stream sediments, rocks and rare earth ores, the results show that mixed acid pre-treatment coupled with ICP-MS had a linear range of 0-200 ng/mL and detection limits of Nb and Ta were 0.01 μg/g and 0.05 μg/g, respectively. The relative error was less than 10%, and the relative standard deviation (RSD) was less than 6%. The Na2O2 fusion pre-treatment coupled with ICP-AES had a linear range of 0-30 μg/mL, detection limits of Nb and Ta were 0.2 μg/g and 2.5 μg/g, respectively. The relative error was less than 10%, and the precision (RSD) was less than 7%. The two sets of analysis method satisfy the demand of analysis of Nb and Ta in samples with a complex matrix, a large range of content and large quantities of samples.

Context: Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) therapy is the standard treatment for nonmuscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). However, its toxicity is a major concern. Aim: If we reduce the number of BCG doses by half and replace the second half with epirubicin, we may have a lower toxicity while maintaining the same efficacy of BCG. To test this hypothesis, we conducted this study as an update of our previous report. Setting and Design: The study included 607 patients with Ta and T1 NMIBC between January 1994 and December 2008. Materials and Methods: After transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT), the patients received weekly doses of 120 mg BCG alternating with 50 mg epirubicin for six weeks (three weekly doses of each). Maintenance was given. Recurrence, progression rates, and toxicity were assessed. End points were progression, recurrence, and cancer-specific survival. Results: A total of 532 patients were eligible for evaluation (mean age: 58 years; median follow-up: 45 months). Of these, 291 (55%) were free, 157 (29.5%) showed recurrence, and 84 (15.8%) showed muscle-invasive progression. Toxicity developed in 221 patients. These were mild in the majority (167), whereas 10 developed hematuria, 30 severe cystitis, and five systemic complications. The rate of permanent therapy discontinuation was 3.8%. Statistical Analysis Used: SPSS package version 16 and Kaplan-Meier curves were used to evaluate survival. Conclusions: Reducing the frequency of BCG instillations by half and replacing the second half with epirubicin results in a similar efficacy and a lower toxicity compared with historical cases receiving BCG alone. However, further trials are required to support these results.

Os produtores do estado do Tocantins estão tendo de manter ou melhorar o padrão de qualidade dos seus frutos, para garantirem uma boa comercialização. o trabalho objetivou avaliar a qualidade dos frutos de abacaxi comercializados na cooperativa Cooperfruto em Miranorte-TO, e verificar se estes se encontram dentro dos padrões mínimos exigidos para comercialização visando ao consumo in natura. a coleta de dados foi realizada no período de novembro de 2006 a maio de 2007, onde foram analisados mensalmente frutos de abacaxi 'Pérola' que eram comercializados pela cooperativa. em cada mês, foram feitas análises físico-químicas de frutos provenientes das cidades produtoras que fazem parte da cooperativa. os parâmetros avaliados foram: a massa do fruto com e sem coroa, peso da coroa, comprimento do fruto com e sem coroa, diâmetro do fruto, ph do suco, rendimento do suco, acidez total titulável (ATT), sólidos solúveis totais (SST) e relação SST/ATT. Para esta avaliação, os frutos foram pesados e medidos para a determinação da classe, comprimento e diâmetro. os frutos foram descascados, picados e triturados para fazer a análise físico-química. o peso do fruto com coroa oscilou entre 1.335 a 1.772 g, o peso da coroa entre 108 a 214 g. Já para o comprimento do fruto com coroa (CFCC) e comprimento do fruto sem coroa (CFSC), os valores foram de 35,4 a 43,2; 15,8 a 20,3, respectivamente. Para o diâmetro, foram encontrados valores médios variando de 9,8 a 10,5 cm, que estão abaixo dos encontrados na literatura. o teor de sólidos solúveis totais apresentou-se na faixa de 12,4 - 15,7 º Brix. o ph oscilou entre 4,07 e 4,38. os valores de rendimento de suco (RS) obtidos estavam entre 0,57 e 0,72 g ml-1. a acidez total titulável (ATT) apresentou teores de 0,35 a 0,65 % de ácido cítrico, a relação SST/ATT encontrou-se entre 20,3 - 40,4. Diante dos resultados, pôde-se observar que os frutos comercializados pela cooperativa cooperfruto são de boa qualidade e encontram-se dentro dos padrões mínimos exigidos para comercialização e consumo in natura.The producers of Tocantins have to keep or to improve the standard of quality of its fruits, to guarantee a good commercialization. aiming at to collaborate with the evaluation of this quality, this work objectified to evaluate the quality of the commercialized fruits of pineapple in the Cooperfruto Cooperative in Miranorte-Tocantins and to verify if these fruits are obeying the minimum standards demanded for commercialization aiming at the consumption in natura. the collection of data was carried through from november 2006 to May 2007 where fruits of 'Perola' cultivar that were commercialized by the cooperative had been analyzed monthly. in each month physicochemical analysis of fruits proceeding from the producing cities that are part of the cooperative had been done. the parameters analyzed included: weight of the fruit with and without crown, weight of the crown, length of the fruit with and without crown, diameter of the fruit, ph of the fruit juice, income of fruit juice content , titratable acidity (ta), total soluble solids (TSS), and relation SST/ATT. For this evaluation the fruits had been weighed and measured for determination of its classification by the weight, length and diameter and later, these had been peeled, perforated and triturated to make the physicochemical analysis. the weight of the fruit with crown (PFcc) was between 1.335 g and 1.772 g. with the weight of the crown (PC) between 108 g and 214 g. the length of the fruit with crown (CFCC) and length of the fruit without crown (CFSC) were between 35.4 cm and 43.2 cm, and 15.8 cm and 20.3 cm, respectively. the diameter of cooperfruto pineapple was between 9.8 cm and 10.5 cm, which is less than the average diameter cited in the literature. the total soluble solids (TSS), was presented in the band of 12,4 - 15,7 º Brix. Ph varied between 4.07 and 4.38. the values of juice income (RS) were between 0.57 and 0,72 g ml-1. the titratable acidity (ta), presented texts of 0,35 0,65 % of acid citric, relation SST/ ATT were between 20,3 - 40,4, and the best relation was gotten in fruits harvested in March. it can be observed that the fruits commercialized by the cooperfruto cooperative, are of good quality and are within the minimum standards demanded for commercialization and consumption in natura.

We examined the effect of triamcinolone acetonide (TA), a corticosteroid, on the relationship between vascular pathophysiology and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) activation in the retina of a rat model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). OIR was induced by exposure of hyperoxia (80% oxygen) to Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats from P2 to P14 and then returned to normoxic conditions. TA was intravitreal-injected once into the right eye of OIR rats at P15. Effects of TA on vascular pathophysiology or changes of various genes in response to hypoxia and/or proinflammation under hypoxic retina were assessed by the Evans-blue method, fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FITC-D) infusion, immunoblotting, and ELIZA. TA not only reduced retinal neovascularization and vascular leakage in the OIR-rat retina, but also blocked the induction of hypoxia-response proinflammatory genes before it negatively controlled VEGF activation. These findings suggest a potential that TA suppresses retinal neovascular pathophysiology via proinflammation-mediated activation of VEGF during hypoxia.