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International audience; The low-lying structure of $^{15}$C has been investigated via the neutron-removal $^{16}$C$(d,t)$ reaction. Along with bound neutron sd-shell hole states, unbound p-shell hole states have been firmly confirmed. The excitation energies and the deduced spectroscopic factors of the cross-shell states are an important measure of the $[(p)^{-1}(sd)^{2}]$ neutron configurations in $^{15}$C. Our results show a very good agreement with shell-model calculations using the SFO-tls interaction for $^{15}$C. However, a modification of the $p$-$sd$ and $sd$-$sd$ monopole terms was applied in order to reproduce the $N=9$ isotone $^{17}$O. In addition, the excitation energies and spectroscopic factors have been compared to the first calculations of $^{15}$C with the $ab~ initio$ self-consistent Green's function method employing the NNLO$_{sat}$ interaction. The results show the sensitivity to the size of the $N=8$ shell gap and highlight the need of going beyond the current truncation scheme in the theory.

Background Repetitive glenohumeral joint movement during manual wheelchair propulsion has been associated with shoulder pain in individuals with spinal cord injury. Clinical guidelines for shoulder health maintenance encourage semi-circular over arc propulsion to reduce loading frequency. This study aimed to determine the difference in estimated supraspinatus to acromion compression risk, and shoulder, thorax kinematics between (1) arc and semi-circular propulsion; and (2) self-selected and coached strategies. Methods Shoulder and thorax kinematics were captured during wheelchair propulsion, noting individually self-selected styles. Participants were then coached to perform the other style(s) of interest, arc and/or semi-circular. CT bone models of the humerus and scapula were animated using glenohumeral kinematics to estimate the minimum distance between the supraspinatus humeral attachment and the acromion. Compression risk was defined as the proportion of each propulsion phase where the minimum distance fell below 5 mm. Comparisons were made between conditions evaluating compression risk, minimum distances and kinematics at events throughout propulsion. Findings Ten individuals with spinal cord injury (9 male) participated. Arc and semi-circular propulsion did not significantly differ in compression risk or minimum distance across propulsion phases. Self-selected styles yielded lower compression risk and larger proximity values compared to coached styles. Glenohumeral horizontal abduction and thorax flexion differed between arc and semi-circular propulsion. Multiple glenohumeral and humerothoracic differences emerged between self-selected and coached conditions. Interpretation Supraspinatus compression was observed during both arc and semi-circular propulsion, suggesting risk may be unavoidable in this task. Self-selected styles yield less risk, likely related to coached style unfamiliarity.

OBJECTIVE: Increasing physical activity (PA) is regularly cited as a modifiable target to improve health outcomes and quality of life in the aging population, especially postmenopausal women who exhibit low bone mineral density (BMD) and high fracture risk. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to quantify real-world PA and its association with BMD in postmenopausal women. METHODS: Seventy postmenopausal women, aged 46 to 79 years, received a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan measuring total hip BMD and wore bilateral triaxial accelerometers on the ankles for 7 days to measure PA in their free-living environment. Custom step detection and peak vertical ground reaction force estimation algorithms, sensitive to both quantity and intensity of PA, were used to calculate a daily bone density index (BDI) for each participant. Multiple regression was used to quantify the relationship between total hip BMD, age, step counts, and mean BDI over the span of 7 days of data collection. RESULTS: All participants completed the full 7 days of PA monitoring, totaling more than 7 million detected steps. Participants averaged 14,485 ± 4,334 steps daily with mean peak vertical ground reaction force stepping loads of 675 ± 121 N during daily living. Across the population, total hip BMD was found to be significantly correlated with objective estimates of mean BDI (r = 0.44), as well as participant age (r = .285). CONCLUSION: Despite having higher-than-expected PA, the low stepping loads observed in this cohort, along with half of the participants having low BMD measures, underscores the need for PA intensity to be considered in the management of postmenopausal bone health.

We aim to compare variations in the full-UV dust extinction curve (912-3000 Angstrom), with the HI/H$_2$/total H content along diffuse Milky Way sightlines, to investigate possible connections between ISM conditions and dust properties. We combine an existing sample of 75 UV extinction curves based on IUE and FUSE data, with atomic and molecular column densities measured through UV absorption. The H$_2$ column density data are based on existing Lyman-Werner absorption band models from earlier work on the extinction curves. Literature values for the HI column density were compiled, and improved for 23 stars by fitting a Ly$\alpha$ profile to archived spectra. We discover a strong correlation between the H$_2$ column and the far-UV extinction, and the underlying cause is a linear relationship between H$_2$ and the strength of the far-UV rise feature. This extinction does not scale with HI, and the total H column scales best with $A(V)$ instead. The carrier of the far-UV rise therefore coincides with molecular gas, and further connections are shown by comparing the UV extinction features to the molecular fraction. Variations in the gas-to-extinction ratio $N(\rm{H})/A(V)$ correlate with the UV-to-optical extinction ratio, and we speculate this could be due to coagulation or shattering effects. Based on the H$_2$ temperature, the strongest far-UV rise strengths are found to appear in colder and denser sightlines., Comment: 24 pages, 9 figures, accepted for publication in ApJ; fix missing text in generated pdf due to broken tex command

The structure of the unbound 15F nucleus is investigated using the inverse kinematics resonant scattering of a radioactive 14O beam impinging on a CH2 target. The analysis of 1H(14O,p)14O and 1H(14O,2p)13N reactions allowed the confirmation of the previously observed narrow 1/2− resonance, near the two-proton decay threshold, and the identification of two new narrow 5/2− and 3/2− resonances. The newly observed levels decay by 1p emission to the ground of 14O, and by sequential 2p emission to the ground state of 13N via the 1− resonance of 14O. Gamow shell model (GSM) analysis of the experimental data suggests that the wave functions of the 5/2− and 3/2− resonances may be collectivized by the continuum coupling to nearby 2p- and 1p-decay channels. The observed excitation function 1H(14O,p)14O and resonance spectrum in 15F are well reproduced in the unified framework of the GSM.

11 pags., 16 figs., 1 tab., We report on γ-ray spectroscopy of low-lying excited states in the neutron-rich Kr94,95,96 isotopes measured as part of the "Shell Evolution And Search for Two-plus energies At RIBF"(SEASTAR) campaign at the RIKEN Radioactive Isotope Beam Factory. Excited yrast and non-yrast states were observed, and half-lives extracted via geant4 simulations. In Kr94,96 candidates for the 31- state were identified. For Kr95, the prompt SEASTAR data were combined with delayed spectroscopic data measured with the EURICA array to observe transitions on top of the known (7/2)+ isomer at a level energy of 195.5(3) keV. The comparison of the new experimental results with five-dimensional collective Hamiltonian (5DCH) and mapped interacting boson model (IBM) calculations, both using the Gogny D1M interaction, could suggest oblate-prolate shape coexistence already in Kr96., This work is supported by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG—German Research Foundation) under Grant No. BL 1513/1-1 and by the BMBF under Grants No. 05P15PKFNA, No. 05P19PKFNA, No. 05P15RDFN1, No. 05P19RDFN1, and No. 05P21RDFN1. We thank the RIKEN Nishina Centre accelerator staff and the BigRIPS team for providing the stable and high-intensity uranium beam and secondary beams, and the STFC (UK). The work of K. Nomura was supported by the Tenure Track Pilot Programme of the Croatian Science Foundation, the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, and Project No. TTP-2018-07-3554, Exotic Nuclear Structure and Dynamics, with funds of the Croatian-Swiss Research Programme. B.D. and Z.L. were supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grants No. 12135004, No. 11635003, and No. 11961141004). R.T. was supported by JSPS Grant-in-Aid for JSPS Research Fellows JP14J08718.

Background: 29% of older adults fall annually, resulting in the leading cause of accidental death. Fall prevention programs typically include exercise training and self-monitoring of physical activity has a positive effect on the self-efficacy and self-regulation of exercise behaviors. We assessed if self-monitoring of fall risk, without an intervention, impacts fall rates.Methods: Fifty-three older adults had open access to a balance measuring platform which allowed them to self-monitor their postural stability and fall risk using a simple 1-min standing balance test. 12-month retrospective fall history was collected and a monthly/bimonthly fall log captured prospective falls. Participants had access to self-monitoring for up to 2.2 years. Fall history and fall incidence rate ratios and their confidence intervals were compared between the periods of time with and without access to self-monitoring.Results: A 54% reduction in the number of people who fell and a 74% reduction in the number of falls was observed when participants were able to self-monitor their postural stability and fall risk, after normalizing for participation length. Further, 42.9% of individuals identified as having high fall risk at baseline shifted to a lower risk category at a median 34 days and voluntarily measured themselves for a longer period of time.Discussion: We attribute this reduction in falls to changes in health behaviors achieved through empowerment from improved self-efficacy and self-regulation. Providing older adults with the ability to self-monitor their postural stability and intuit their risk of falling appears to have modified their health behaviors to successfully reduce fall rates.

Summary We studied the incidence and causes of transition disturbances in the first 30 minutes of life in full-term newborns. This one-year study was retrospective and included 1147 full- term live-born neonates without life-threatening congenital anomalies and surgical complications. They were divided into four groups: 0 (with normal transition), 1 (resuscitated without endotracheal intubation), and 2 (intubated); A (without underlying maternal, obstetric or fetal/neonatal problem, with adequate for GA eight and from single birth) and B (with one or more of following: underlying maternal, obstetric or fetal/neonatal problem, SGA or LGA, from multiple pregnancies). Of the newborns, 9.1% of required resuscitation and 1.6% - extensive resuscitation with intubation. The groups significantly differed in the incidence of underlying maternal, obstetric, or fetal/neonatal problems. Resuscitated babies were born via Caesarean section (CS), in abnormal presentation (PaN) and by vacuum extraction or forceps (V/F) predominantly. The highest incidence of the small for gestational age (GA) babies – SGA, was detected in Group 2. Twins and large for GA (LGA) had prevalence in Group 1. Resuscitation was necessary for 18.1% of CS-delivered babies. V/F and PaN lead to the highest need for intubation. According to our data, every 10th of the full-term neonates required assistance in the fetal-to-neonatal transition. The causes could be diseases of the mother or fetus/newborn, multiple births, SGA, or LGA. A compromised medical decision about the time and way of delivery may result in iatrogenic transition disturbances.

Vertical cylindrical enclosures are used in the crystal growth industry as crystal growth reactors. Gallium nitride crystals are grown in ammonothermal growth reactors that requires temperatures in the range of 600–1000 K (620–1340 °F) and pressures in the range of 1000–6000 bar (14,504–87,022 psi). The process conditions make any experimental measurements difficult, in particular, flow pattern visualization and velocity measurements. A geometrically similar transparent reactor and similar fluid dynamic conditions for crystal growth were used in the process of experimental observation and measurement of the flow. Boundary and fluid temperatures along with velocity vectors were recorded. The flow proved to be oscillating in nature with steady and uniform time-averaged patterns. Fluid temperatures showed a higher standard deviation in the mixing region suggesting that the fluctuations are stronger at this location. Flow patterns and fluid temperatures indicated that the heat transfer between the two sections is driven by conduction and advection.

Background: Physical activity (PA) interventions, designed to increase exposure to ground reaction force (GRF) loading, are a common target for reducing fracture risk in post-menopausal women with low bone mineral density (BMD). Unfortunately, accurate tracking of PA in free-living environments and the ability to translate this activity into evaluations of bone health is currently limited. Research question: This study evaluates the effectiveness of ankle-worn accelerometers to estimate the vertical GRFs responsible for bone and joint loading in post-menopausal women at a range of self-selected walking speeds during barefoot walking. Methods: Seventy women, at least one year post-menopause, wore Actigraph GT3X + on both ankles and completed walking trials at self-selected speeds (a minimum of five each at fast, normal and slow walking) along a 30 m instrumented walkway with force plates and photocells to measure loading and estimate gait velocity. Repeated measures correlation analysis and step-wise mixed-effects modelling were performed to evaluate significant predictors of peak vertical GRFs normalized to body weight (pVGRFbw), including peak vertical ankle accelerations (pVacc), walking velocity (Velw) and age. Results: A strong repeated measures correlation of r = 0.75 (95%CI [0.71-0.76] via 1000 bootstrap passes) between pVacc and pVGRFbw was observed. Five-fold cross-validation of mixed-model predictions yielded an average mean-absolute-error (MAE[95%CI]) and root-mean-square-error (RMSE) rate of 5.98%[5.61–6.42] and 0.076 [0.069-0.082] with a more complex model (including Velw,) and 6.80%[6.37–7.54] and 0.087BW[0.081-0.095] with a simpler model (including only pVacc), when comparing accelerometer-based estimations of pVGRFbw to force plate measures of pVGRFbw. Age was not found to be significant. Significance: This study is the first to show a strong relationship among ankle accelerometry data and high fidelity lower-limb loading approximations in post-menopausal women. The results provide the first steps necessary for estimation of real-world limb and joint loading supporting the goals of accurate PA tracking and improved individualization of clinical interventions.

To keep up with the increasing demand for grain, proper drying and storage of grain is critical. Increasing the efficiency of these systems has been investigated, but there has been very little focus on the phenomena that occur inside a wet bin. This research investigated the influence of mixing and diffusion on the moisture content of maize as it leaves the wet bin. To determine the effect of mixing and diffusion of maize on moisture contents as it exits the wet bin, moisture content was established and dye and diffusion tests were conducted. The results of showed that the mixing and diffusion of the each load directly affect the moisture content in the unload increments. The moisture content profile was divided into four sections. Section I, the unload increments 1–3 are primarily load A only; Section II, unload increments 4–6 are primarily mixing of only load A and B with increasing of load B effect; Section III, Unload increments 7–11 are primarily mixing of only load B and C with increasing of load C effect; Section IV, unload increments 12–13 is affected by funnel flow and load B in a stagnation zone near the wall boundary slightly increases.

An experimental study of a fluorescent broadband light source fully compatible with optical fibers is presented in the article, with the aim of using it for excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy. A fiber optic glass ferrule filled with a solution of Rhodamine 6G in glycerin was used for the basic construction of the light source. The ferrule is coupled with optical fibers to illuminate the dye medium and to receive the fluorescent signal. A tuning of the light spectrum from the source between 528 nm and 660 nm with a shift of 1 nm is achieved by means of a monochromator. Full Text: PDF ReferencesN. Hoinka and T. Fuhrmann-Lieker, "Amplified Spontaneous Emission in Paper", Sci. Rep. 9, 1 (2019), CrossRef J. Włodarski, M. Chychłowski, "Chemically tuned light source with an optical pump", Photonics Lett. Pol. 13(2), 46 (2021). CrossRef J. Żmojda, P. Miluski, M. Kochanowicz, J. Dorosz, A. Baranowska, M. Leśniak and D. Dorosz, "Luminescent properties of active optical fibers", Photonics Lett. Pol. 11(2), 50 (2019). CrossRef K. Jakubowski, W. Kerkemeyer, E. Perret, M. Heuberger, R. Hufenus, "Liquid-core polymer optical fibers for luminescent waveguide applications", Mater. Des. 196, 1 (2020). CrossRef V. Vladev, T. Eftimov, "Fiberized fluorescent dye microtubes", Proc. SPIE 8770, 87700V-1 (2013). CrossRef V. Vladev, T. Eftimov, W. Bock, "Broad-band fluorescent all-fiber source based on microstructured optical fibers", Photonics Lett. Pol., 7(2), 41 (2015). CrossRef V. Vladev, T. Eftimov, W. Bock, "Fluorescent all-fiber light source based on micro-capillaries and on microstructured optical fibers terminated with a microbulb", Opt. Comm. 356, 34 (2015). CrossRef V. Vladev, T. Eftimov, S. Nedev, "Excitation efficiency of a side-pumped fiberized fluorescent dye microcapillary", Opt. Fib. Tech. 28, 28 (2016). CrossRef V. Vladev, M. Todorova, V. Slavchev, M. Brazkova, E. Belina, S. Bozhkov, P. Radusheva, "A new basic structure suitable for a fully integrated all-fiber-optic stimulated emission dye source", J. Phys.: Conf. Ser. 1859 (012059), 1 (2021). CrossRef V. P. Vladev, M. M. Todorova, M. S. Brazkova, S. I. Bozhkov, "Diode-pumped all-fiber-optic liquid dye laser", Laser Phys. Lett. 18 (11), 115103 (2021), CrossRef G. Dyankov, T. A. Eftimov, N. Malinowski, E. Belina, H. Kisov, P. Mikulic, W. J. Bock, "A highly efficient biosensor based on MAPLE deposited hemoglobin on LPGs around phase matching turning point", Opt. Laser Technol. 123, 1 (2020). CrossRef T. Eftimov, G. Dyankov, A. Arapova, P. Kolev and V. Vladev, W4.73 , OFS-27, Optical Fiber Sensor Conference - 2022, 29 Aug- 2 Sept., The Westin Alexandria, Alexandria, Virginia, USA. CrossRef G. Rossi, J. Durek, S. Ojha, O. K. Schlüter, "Fluorescence-based characterisation of selected edible insect species: Excitation emission matrix (EEM) and parallel factor (PARAFAC) analysis", CRFS 4, 862 (2021). CrossRef L. Li, Y. Wang, W. Zhang, S. Yu, X. Wang, N. Gao, "New advances in fluorescence excitation-emission matrix spectroscopy for the characterization of dissolved organic matter in drinking water treatment: A review Author links open overlay panel", Chem. Eng. J. 381, 1 (2020). CrossRef

An extensive catalog of common and rare genetic variants contributes to overall risk for schizophrenia and related disorders. As a complement to population genetics efforts, here we present whole genome sequences of multiple affected probands within individual families to search for possible high penetrance driver variants. From a total of 15 families diagnostically evaluated by a single research psychiatrist, we performed whole genome sequencing of a total of 61 affected individuals, called SNPs, indels, and copy number variants, and compared to reference genomes. In fourteen out of fifteen families, the schizophrenia polygenic risk score for each proband was within the control range defined by the Thousand Genomes cohort. In six families, each affected member carried a very rare or private, predicted-damaging, variant in at least one gene. Among these genes, variants in LRP1 and TENM2 suggest these are candidate disease-related genes when taken into context with existing population genetic studies and biological information. Results add to the number of pedigree sequences reported, suggest pathways for the investigation of biological mechanisms, and are consistent with the overall accumulating evidence that very rare damaging variants contribute to the heritability of schizophrenia.

Arm use in manual wheelchair (MWC) users is characterized by a combination of overuse and a sedentary lifestyle. This study aimed to describe the percentage of daily time MWC users and able-bodied individuals spend in each arm use intensity level utilizing accelerometers. Arm use intensity levels of the upper arms were defined as stationary, low, mid, and high from the signal magnitude area (SMA) of the segment accelerations based on in-lab MWC activities performed by eight MWC users. Accelerometry data were collected in the free-living environments from forty MWC users and 40 sex- and age-matched able-bodied individuals. The SMA intensity levels were applied to the free-living data and the percentage of time spent in each level was calculated. The SMA intensity levels were defined as, stationary: ≤0.67 g, low: 0.671–3.27 g, mid: 3.27–5.87 g, and high: &gt, 5.871 g. The dominant arm of both MWC users and able-bodied individuals was stationary for most of the day and less than one percent of the day was spent in high intensity arm activities. Increased MWC user age correlated with increased stationary arm time (R = 0.368, p = 0.019). Five and eight days of data are needed from MWC users and able-bodied individuals, respectively, to achieve reliable representation of their daily arm use intensities.

Background: The evolution of shell structure around doubly magic exotic nuclei is of great interest in nuclear physics and astrophysics. In the `southwest' region of $^{78}$Ni, the development of deformation might trigger a major shift in our understanding of explosive nucleosynthesis. To this end, new spectroscopic information on key close-lying nuclei is very valuable. Purpose: We intend to measure the isomeric and $��$ decay of $^{75}$Co, with one-proton and two-neutron holes relative to $^{78}$Ni, to access new nuclear structure information in $^{75}$Co and its $��$-decay daughters $^{75}$Ni and $^{74}$Ni. Methods: The nucleus $^{75}$Co is produced in relativistic in-flight fission reactions of $^{238}$U at the Radioactive Ion Beam Factory in the RIKEN Nishina Center. Its isomeric and $��$ decay are studied exploiting the BigRIPS and EURICA setups. Results: We obtain partial $��$-decay spectra for $^{75}$Ni and $^{74}$Ni, and report a new isomeric transition in $^{75}$Co. The energy [$E_��=1914(2)$ keV] and half-life [$t_{1/2}=13(6)$ $��$s] of the delayed $��$ ray lend support for the existence of a $J^��=(1/2^-)$ isomeric state at 1914(2) keV. A comparison with PFSDG-U shell-model calculations provides a good account for the observed states in $^{75}$Ni, but the first calculated $1/2^-$ level in $^{75}$Co, a prolate $K=1/2$ state, is predicted about 1 MeV below the observed $(1/2^-)$ level. Conclusions: The spherical-like structure of the lowest-lying excited states in $^{75}$Ni is proved. In the case of $^{75}$Co, the results suggest that the dominance of the spherical configurations over the deformed ones might be stronger than expected below $^{78}$Ni. Further experimental efforts to discern the nature of the $J^��=(1/2^-)$ isomer are necessary., 15 pages, 6 figures, 3 tables. Physical Review C

12 pags., 6 figs., 3 tabs., Background: The evolution of shell structure around doubly magic exotic nuclei is of great interest in nuclear physics and astrophysics. In the 'southwest' region of Ni78, the development of deformation might trigger a major shift in our understanding of explosive nucleosynthesis. To this end, new spectroscopic information on key close-lying nuclei is very valuable. Purpose: We intend to measure the isomeric and β decay of Co75, with one-proton and two-neutron holes relative to Ni78, to access new nuclear structure information in Co75 and its β-decay daughters Ni75 and Ni74. Methods: The nucleus Co75 is produced in relativistic in-flight fission reactions of U238 at the Radioactive Ion Beam Factory in the RIKEN Nishina Center. Its isomeric and β decay are studied exploiting the BigRIPS and EURICA setups. Results: We obtain partial β-decay spectra for Ni75 and Ni74, and report a new isomeric transition in Co75. The energy [Eγ=1914(2)keV] and half-life [t1/2=13(6)μs] of the delayed γ ray lend support for the existence of a Jπ=(1/2-) isomeric state at 1914(2) keV. A comparison with PFSDG-U shell-model calculations provides a good account for the observed states in Ni75, but the first calculated 1/2- level in Co75, a prolate K=1/2 state, is predicted about 1 MeV below the observed (1/2-) level. Conclusions: The spherical-like structure of the lowest-lying excited states in Ni75 is proved. In the case of Co75, the results suggest that the dominance of the spherical configurations over the deformed ones might be stronger than expected below Ni78. Further experimental efforts to discern the nature of the Jπ=(1/2-) isomer are necessary., The excellent work of the RIKEN accelerator staff for providing a stable and high-intensity beam of 238U is acknowledged. This work was partially supported by KAKENHI (Grants No. 25247045, No. 23.01752, and No. 25800130); US DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-91ER-40609; Spanish Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación Contracts No. FPA2009-13377-C02, No. FPA2011-29854-C04, No. PID2019-104714GB-C21 (AEI), and No. FPA2017-83946-C2-1-P (MCIU/AEI/FEDER), the Severo Ochoa Programme SEV-2016-0597 and Grant No. PGC-2018-94583; Subvenciones grupos de excelencia de la Generalitat Valenciana: PROMETEO/2019/007; Spanish Comunidad de Madrid via the “Atracción de Talento Investigador” Program No. 2019- T1/TIC-13194; European Regional Development Fund Contract No. GINOP-2.3.3-15-2016-00034; National Research, Development and Innovation Fund of Hungary via Project No. K128947; and the German BMBF Grant No. 05P19RDFN1. The authors acknowledge the EUROBALL Owners Committee for the loan of germanium detectors and the PreSpec Collaboration for the readout electronics of the cluster detectors. Part of the WAS3ABi was supported by the Rare Isotope Science Project which is funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MEST) and National Research Foundation (NRF) of Korea

Background: The Z=50 shell closure, near N=82, is unique in the sense that it is the only shell closure with the spin-orbit partner orbitals, πg9/2 and πg7/2, enclosing the magic gap. The interaction of the proton hole/particle in the above-mentioned orbitals with neutrons in the νh11/2 orbital is an important prerequisite to the understanding of the nuclear structure near N=82 and the νπ interaction. Purpose: To explore the structural similarity between the high-spin isomeric states in In (Z=49), Sn (Z=50), and Sb (Z=51) isotopes from a microscopic point of view. In addition, to understand the role of a proton hole or particle in the spin-orbit partner orbitals, πg9/2 and πg7/2, respectively, with neutron holes in the νh11/2 orbital on these aforementioned isomers. Methods: The fusion and transfer induced fission reaction Be9(U238, f) with 6.2 MeV/u beam energy, using a unique setup consisting of AGATA, VAMOS++, and EXOGAM detectors, was used to populate through the fission process and study the neutron-rich In119,121 isotopes. This setup enabled the prompt-delayed γ-ray spectroscopy of isotopes in the time range of 100ns-200μs. Results: In the odd-AIn119,121 isotopes, indications of a short half-life 19/2- isomeric state, in addition to the previously known 25/2+ isomeric state, were observed from the present data. Further, new prompt transitions above the 25/2+ isomer in In121 were identified along with reevaluation of its half-life. Conclusions: The experimental data were compared with the theoretical results obtained in the framework of large-scale shell-model calculations in a restricted model space. The (πg9/2νh11/2;I|Ĥ|πg9/2νh11/2;I) two-body matrix elements of residual interaction were modified to explain the excitation energies and the B(E2) transition probabilities in the neutron-rich In isotopes. The (i) decreasing trend of E(29/2+)-E(25/2+) in odd-In (with dominant configuration πg9/2-1νh11/2-2 and maximum aligned spin of 29/2+) and (ii) increasing trend of E(27/2+)-E(23/2+) in odd-Sb (with dominant configuration πg7/2+1νh11/2-2 and maximum aligned spin of 27/2+) with increasing neutron number could be understood as a consequence of hole-hole and particle-hole interactions, respectively.

Background: The Z=50 shell closure, near N=82, is unique in the sense that it is the only shell closure with the spin-orbit partner orbitals, πg9/2 and πg7/2, enclosing the magic gap. The interaction of the proton hole/particle in the above-mentioned orbitals with neutrons in the νh11/2 orbital is an important prerequisite to the understanding of the nuclear structure near N=82 and the νπ interaction. Purpose: To explore the structural similarity between the high-spin isomeric states in In (Z=49), Sn (Z=50), and Sb (Z=51) isotopes from a microscopic point of view. In addition, to understand the role of a proton hole or particle in the spin-orbit partner orbitals, πg9/2 and πg7/2, respectively, with neutron holes in the νh11/2 orbital on these aforementioned isomers. Methods: The fusion and transfer induced fission reaction Be9(U238, f) with 6.2 MeV/u beam energy, using a unique setup consisting of AGATA, VAMOS++, and EXOGAM detectors, was used to populate through the fission process and study the neutron-rich In119,121 isotopes. This setup enabled the prompt-delayed γ-ray spectroscopy of isotopes in the time range of 100ns-200μs. Results: In the odd-AIn119,121 isotopes, indications of a short half-life 19/2- isomeric state, in addition to the previously known 25/2+ isomeric state, were observed from the present data. Further, new prompt transitions above the 25/2+ isomer in In121 were identified along with reevaluation of its half-life. Conclusions: The experimental data were compared with the theoretical results obtained in the framework of large-scale shell-model calculations in a restricted model space. The (πg9/2νh11/2;I|Ĥ|πg9/2νh11/2;I) two-body matrix elements of residual interaction were modified to explain the excitation energies and the B(E2) transition probabilities in the neutron-rich In isotopes. The (i) decreasing trend of E(29/2+)-E(25/2+) in odd-In (with dominant configuration πg9/2-1νh11/2-2 and maximum aligned spin of 29/2+) and (ii) increasing trend of E(27/2+)-E(23/2+) in odd-Sb (with dominant configuration πg7/2+1νh11/2-2 and maximum aligned spin of 27/2+) with increasing neutron number could be understood as a consequence of hole-hole and particle-hole interactions, respectively.

The voltage-gated sodium channel NaV1.7 has received much attention from the scientific community due to compelling human genetic data linking gain- and loss-of-function mutations to pain phenotypes. Despite this genetic validation of NaV1.7 as a target for pain, high quality pharmacological tools facilitate further understanding of target biology, establishment of target coverage requirements and subsequent progression into the clinic. Within the sulfonamide class of inhibitors, reduced potency on rat NaV1.7 versus human NaV1.7 was observed, rendering in vivo rat pharmacology studies challenging. Herein, we report the discovery and optimization of novel benzoxazine sulfonamide inhibitors of human, rat and mouse NaV1.7 which enabled pharmacological assessment in traditional behavioral rodent models of pain and in turn, established a connection between formalin-induced pain and histamine-induced pruritus in mice. The latter represents a simple and efficient means of measuring target engagement.

In this study, heat transfer and hydrodynamics of a free water jet impinging a flat plate surface are experimentally investigated. The effects of the nozzle-to-plate spacing, which is equal to or less than one nozzle diameter ( H / d = 0.08–1), on the Nusselt number, hydraulic jump diameter, and pressure at the stagnation point are considered. The results show that the normalized stagnation Nusselt number, pressure, and hydraulic jump diameter are divided into two regions: Region (I) jet deflection region ( H / d ⩽ 0.4) and Region (II) inertia dominant region (0.4 H / d ⩽ 1). In region I, the normalized stagnation Nusselt number and hydraulic jump diameter drastically increase with decreasing the nozzle-to-plate spacing, since the stagnation pressure increases due to the jet deflection effect. In region II, the effect of the nozzle-to-plate spacing is negligible on the normalized stagnation Nusselt number and hydraulic jump diameter since the average velocity of the jet is constant, which means the jet deflection effect disappears. Based on the experimental results, new correlations for the normalized hydraulic jump diameter, stagnation Nusselt number, and pressure are developed as a function of the nozzle-to-plate spacing alone.

13 pags., 11 figs., 3 tabs., Background: Detailed spectroscopy of neutron-rich odd-A Cu isotopes is of great importance for studying the shell evolution in the region of Ni78. While there is experimental information on excited states in Cu69-73,77,79 isotopes, the information concerning Cu75 is very limited. Purpose: Experimentally observed single-particle, core-coupling, and proton-hole intruder states in Cu75, will complete the systematics of these states in the chain of isotopes. Method: Excited states in Cu75 were populated in the β decay of Ni75 isotopes. The Ni nuclei were produced by the in-flight fission of U238 projectiles, and were separated, identified, and implanted in a highly segmented Si detector array for the detection of the β-decay electrons. The β-delayed γ rays were detected in a HPGe cluster array. Monte Carlo shell model calculations were performed using the A3DA interaction built on the pfg9/2d5/2 model space for both neutrons and protons. Results: A level scheme of Cu75 was built up to ≈4 MeV by performing a γ-γ coincidence analysis. The excited states below 2 MeV were interpreted based on the systematics of neutron-rich odd-A Cu isotopes and the results of the shell model calculations. Conclusions: The evolution of the single-particle, core-coupling, and proton-hole intruder states in the chain of neutron-rich odd-A Cu isotopes is discussed in the present work, in connection with the newly observed level structure of Cu75., This work was carried out at the RIBF operated by RIKEN Nishina Center, RIKEN and CNS, University of Tokyo. The research leading to the results has received funding from the Research Council of Norway under project Grants No. 240104 and No. 213442 and from KAKENHI (under Grants No. 25247045, No. 23.01752, and No. 25800130); U.S. DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-91ER-40609; German BMBF Grant No. 05P19RDFN1 and DFG Grant No. SFB 1245; Spanish Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación Contracts No. FPA2009-13377C02 and No. FPA2011-29854- C04; and GINOP-2.3.3-15-2016-00034 and the Hungarian Scientific Research Fund OTKA Contract No. K128947. The Monte Carlo shell-model calculations were performed on K computer at RIKEN AICS (hp140210, hp150224, hp160211). This work was supported in part by the HPCI Strategic Program (The Origin of Matter and the Universe), by “Priority Issue on Post-K computer” (Elucidation of the Fundamental Laws and Evolution of the Universe) (hp160211), and by CNS-RIKEN joint project for large-scale nuclear structure calculations. The authors acknowledge the EUROBALL Owners Committee for the loan of germanium detectors and the PreSpec Collaboration for the readout electronics of the cluster detectors. Part of the WAS3ABi was supported by the Rare Isotope Science Project which is funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MEST) and National Research Foundation (NRF) of Korea.

Classical novae result from thermonuclear explosions producing several $��$-ray emitters which are prime targets for satellites observing in the MeV range. The early 511 keV gamma-ray emission depends critically on the $^{18}$F(p,$��$)$^{15}$O reaction rate which, despite many experimental and theoretical efforts, still remains uncertain. One of the main uncertainties in the $^{18}$F(p,$��$)$^{15}$O reaction rate is the contribution in the Gamow window of interference between sub-threshold $^{19}$Ne states and known broad states at higher energies. Therefore the goal of this work is to clarify the existence and the nature of these sub-threshold states. States in the $^{19}$Ne compound nucleus were studied at the Tandem-ALTO facility using the $^{19}$F($^3$He,t)$^{19}$Ne charge exchange reaction. Tritons were detected with an Enge Split-pole spectrometer while decaying protons or $��$-particles from unbound $^{19}$Ne states were collected, in coincidence, with a double-sided silicon strip detector array. Angular correlations were extracted and constraints on the spin and parity of decaying states established. The coincidence yield at $E_x$ = 6.29 MeV was observed to be high spin, supporting the conclusion that it is indeed a doublet consisting of high spin and low spin components. Evidence for a broad, low spin state was observed around 6 MeV. Branching ratios were extracted for several states above the proton threshold and were found to be consistent with the literature. R-matrix calculations show the relative contribution of sub-threshold states to the astrophysically important energy region above the proton threshold. The levels schemes of $^{19}$Ne and $^{19}$F are still not sufficiently well known and further studies of the analogue assignments are needed. The tentative broad state at 6 MeV may only play a role if the reduced proton width is large.

Brain Imaging Data Structure (BIDS) allows the user to organise brain imaging data into a clear and easy standard directory structure. BIDS is widely supported by the scientific community and is considered a powerful standard for management. The original BIDS is limited to images or data related to the brain. Medical Imaging Data Structure (MIDS) was therefore conceived with the objective of extending this methodology to other anatomical regions and other types of imaging systems in these areas., Comment: 15 pages, 4 figures and 7 tables. This standard has been applied in arXiv:2006.01174. For more information, visit https://bimcv.cipf.es/bimcv-projects/mids and https://github.com/BIMCV-CSUSP/MIDS/

Background: Detailed spectroscopy of neutron-rich odd-A Cu isotopes is of great importance for studying the shell evolution in the region of 78Ni. While there is experimental information on excited states in 69−73,77,79Cu isotopes, the information concerning 75Cu is very limited. Purpose: Experimentally observed single-particle, core-coupling, and proton-hole intruder states in 75Cu, will complete the systematics of these states in the chain of isotopes. Method: Excited states in 75Cu were populated in the β decay of 75Ni isotopes. The Ni nuclei were produced by the in-flight fission of 238U projectiles, and were separated, identified, and implanted in a highly segmented Si detector array for the detection of the β-decay electrons. The β-delayed γ rays were detected in a HPGe cluster array. Monte Carlo shell model calculations were performed using the A3DA interaction built on the pfg9/2d5/2 model space for both neutrons and protons. Results: A level scheme of 75Cu was built up to ≈4 MeV by performing a γ−γ coincidence analysis. The excited states below 2 MeV were interpreted based on the systematics of neutron-rich odd-A Cu isotopes and the results of the shell model calculations. Conclusions: The evolution of the single-particle, core-coupling, and proton-hole intruder states in the chain of neutron-rich odd-A Cu isotopes is discussed in the present work, in connection with the newly observed level structure of 75Cu.

ispartof: Physical Review C vol:100 issue:3 pages:034306-034306 status: published

21 pags., 18 figs., 10 tabs.-- Open Access funded by Creative Commons Atribution Licence 4.0, Background: Levels fulfilling the seniority scheme and relevant isomers are commonly observed features in semimagic nuclei; for example, in Sn isotopes (Z=50). Seniority isomers in Sn, with dominantly pure neutron configurations, directly probe the underlying neutron-neutron (νν) interaction. Furthermore, an addition of a valence proton particle or hole, through neutron-proton (νπ) interaction, affects the neutron seniority as well as the angular momentum. Purpose: Benchmark the reproducibility of the experimental observables, like the excitation energies (EX) and the reduced electric-quadrupole transition probabilities [B(E2)], with the results obtained from shell-model interactions for neutron-rich Sn and Sb isotopes with N, P.B. and A.M. acknowledge support from the Polish National Science Centre (NCN) under Contract No. 2016/22/M/ST2/00269 and the French LEA COPIGAL project. S.Bi., R.B., S.Bh., S.Bh., and R.P. acknowledge support from CEFIPRA project No. 5604-4 and the LIA France– India agreement. H.L.C. and P.F. acknowledge support from the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, Office of Nuclear Physics under Contract No. DE-AC02-05CH11231 (LBNL). R.M.P.V. acknowledge partial support by Ministry of Science, Spain, under the grants BES-2012-061407, SEV2014-0398, FPA2017-84756-C4 and by EU FEDER funds. A.J. was supported by the Spanish Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad under contract FPA2017-84756-C4-2-P.

Current therapies to treat persistent pain and neuropathic pain are limited by poor efficacy, side effects and risk of addiction. Here, we present a novel class of potent selective, central nervous system (CNS)-penetrant potentiators of glycine receptors (GlyRs), ligand-gated ion channels expressed in the CNS. AM-1488 increased the response to exogenous glycine in mouse spinal cord and significantly reversed mechanical allodynia induced by nerve injury in a mouse model of neuropathic pain. We obtained an X-ray crystal structure of human homopentameric GlyRα3 in complex with AM-3607, a potentiator of the same class with increased potency, and the agonist glycine, at 2.6-Å resolution. AM-3607 binds a novel allosteric site between subunits, which is adjacent to the orthosteric site where glycine binds. Our results provide new insights into the potentiation of cysteine-loop receptors by positive allosteric modulators and hold promise in structure-based design of GlyR modulators for the treatment of neuropathic pain.

Method: To examine signatures of this alpha-condensation, a compound nucleus reaction using 160, 280, and 400 MeV 16O beams impinging on a carbon target was used to investigate the 12C(16O,7a) reaction. This permits a search for near-threshold states in the alpha-conjugate nuclei up to 24Mg. Results: Events up to an alpha-particle multiplicity of 7 were measured and the results were compared to both an Extended Hauser-Feshbach calculation and the Fermi break-up model. The measured multiplicity distribution exceeded that predicted from a sequential decay mechanism and had a better agreement with the multi-particle Fermi break-up model. Examination of how these 7 alpha final states could be reconstructed to form 8Be and 12C(0_2+) showed a quantitative difference in which decay modes were dominant compared to the Fermi break-up model. No new states were observed in 16O, 20Ne, and 24Mg due to the effect of the N-alpha penetrability suppressing the total alpha-particle dissociation decay mode. Conclusion: The reaction mechanism for a high energy compound nucleus reaction can only be described by a hybrid of sequential decay and multi-particle breakup. Highly alpha-clustered states were seen which did not originate from simple binary reaction processes. Direct investigations of near-threshold states in N-alpha systems are inherently impeded by the Coulomb barrier prohibiting the observation of states in the N-alpha decay channel. No evidence of a highly clustered 15.1 MeV state in 16O was observed from (28Si*,12C(0_2+))16O(0_6+) when reconstructing the Hoyle state from 3 alpha-particles. Therefore, no experimental signatures for alpha-condensation were observed.

The structure of $^{34}$Si was studied through $��$ spectroscopy separately in the $��^-$ decays of $^{34}$Mg and $^{34}$Al at the ISOLDE facility of CERN. Different configurations in $^{34}$Si were populated independently from the two recently identified $��$-decaying states in $^{34}$Al having spin-parity assignments $J^��= 4^-$ dominated by the normal configuration $��(d_{5/2})^{-1} \otimes ��(f_{7/2})$ and $J^��= 1^+$ by the intruder configuration $��(d_{5/2})^{-1} \otimes ��(d_{3/2})^{-1}(f_{7/2})^{2}$. The paper reports on spectroscopic properties of $^{34}$Si such as an extended level scheme, spin and parity assignments based on log($ft$) values and $��$-ray branching ratios, absolute $��$ feeding intensities and neutron emission probabilities. A total of 11 newly identified levels and 26 transitions were added to the previously known level scheme of $^{34}$Si. Large scale shell-model calculations using the {\sc sdpf-u-mix} interaction, able to treat higher order intruder configurations, are compared with the new results and conclusions are drawn concerning the predictive power of {\sc sdpf-u-mix}, the $N=20$ shell gap, the level of mixing between normal and intruder configurations for the 0$_1^+$, 0$_2^+$ and 2$_1^+$ states and the absence of triaxial deformation in $^{34}$Si.

The nuclear structure of the 76 Ni nucleus was investigated by ( p , 2 p ) reaction using a NaI(Tl) array to detect the deexciting prompt γ rays. A new transition with an energy of 2227 keV was identified by γ γ and γ γ γ coincidences. According to these coincidence spectra the observed transition connects a new state at 4147 keV and the previously known 4+1 state at 1920 keV. Two weaker transitions were also obtained at 2441 and 2838 keV, which could be tentatively placed to feed the known 2+1 state at 990 keV. Our shell-model calculations using the Lenzi, Nowacki, Poves, and Sieja interaction produced good candidates for the experimental proton hole states in the observed energy region, and the theoretical cross sections showed good agreement with the experimental values. Although we could not assign all the experimental states to the theoretical ones unambiguously, the results are consistent with a reasonably large Z=28 shell gap for nickel isotopes in accordance with previous studies.

Many efforts are underway to develop selective inhibitors of the voltage-gated sodium channel Na V 1.7 as new analgesics. Thus far, however, in vitro selectivity has proved difficult for small molecules, and peptides generally lack appropriate pharmacokinetic properties. We previously identified the Na V 1.7 inhibitory peptide GpTx-1 from tarantula venom and optimized its potency and selectivity via structure-guided analoging. To further understand GpTx-1 binding to Na V 1.7, we have mapped the binding site to transmembrane segments 1–4 of the second pseudosubunit internal repeat (commonly referred to as Site 4) using Na V 1.5/Na V 1.7 chimeric protein constructs. We also report that select GpTx-1 amino acid residues apparently not contacting Na V 1.7 can be derivatized with a hydrophilic polymer without adversely affecting peptide potency. Homodimerization of GpTx-1 with a bifunctional polyethylene glycol (PEG) linker resulted in a compound with increased potency and a significantly reduced off-rate, demonstrating the ability to modulate the function and properties of GpTx-1 by linking to additional molecules.

Significance: Aging and oxidative stress are complex phenomena, and their understanding is of enormous theoretical and practical significance. Recent Advances: Numerous hypotheses and theories that attempt to explain these phenomena have been developed. These hypotheses and theories compete with each other, with each claiming to be the correct one, while significantly contradicting each other. Critical Issues: It is important to develop a maximally correct theory that may then trigger significant practical breakthroughs. Future Directions: None of these theories is entirely correct or close enough to the truth. However, most of them contain many correct elements (CE). Finding these CE is possible by analysis of these theories. Once the CE are found, they can be merged by synthesis in a better new theory. An analysis of some of the theories of aging followed by synthesis is attempted. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 23, 187–207.

NaV1.7 is a voltage-gated sodium ion channel implicated by human genetic evidence as a therapeutic target for the treatment of pain. Screening fractionated venom from the tarantula Grammostola porteri led to the identification of a 34-residue peptide, termed GpTx-1, with potent activity on NaV1.7 (IC50 = 10 nM) and promising selectivity against key NaV subtypes (20× and 1000× over NaV1.4 and NaV1.5, respectively). NMR structural analysis of the chemically synthesized three disulfide peptide was consistent with an inhibitory cystine knot motif. Alanine scanning of GpTx-1 revealed that residues Trp(29), Lys(31), and Phe(34) near the C-terminus are critical for potent NaV1.7 antagonist activity. Substitution of Ala for Phe at position 5 conferred 300-fold selectivity against NaV1.4. A structure-guided campaign afforded additive improvements in potency and NaV subtype selectivity, culminating in the design of [Ala5,Phe6,Leu26,Arg28]GpTx-1 with a NaV1.7 IC50 value of 1.6 nM and1000× selectivity against NaV1.4 and NaV1.5.

A Coulomb-excitation experiment to study electromagnetic properties of 42Ca was performed using a 170-MeV calcium beam from the TANDEM XPU facility at INFN Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro. γ rays from excited states in 42Ca were measured with the AGATA spectrometer. The magnitudes and relative signs of ten E2 matrix elements coupling six low-lying states in 42Ca, including the diagonal E2 matrix elements of 2+ 1 and 2+ 2 states, were determined using the least-squares code GOSIA. The obtained set of reduced E2 matrix elements was analyzed using the quadrupole sum rule method and yielded overall quadrupole deformation for 0+ 1,2 and 2+ 1,2 states, as well as triaxiality for 0+ 1,2 states, establishing the coexistence of a weakly deformed ground-state band and highly deformed slightly triaxial sideband in 42Ca. The experimental results were compared with the state-of-the-art large-scale shell-model and beyond-mean-field calculations, which reproduce well the general picture of shape coexistence in 42Ca.

20 pags., 12 figs., 14 tabs., A Coulomb-excitation experiment to study electromagnetic properties of Ca42 was performed using a 170-MeV calcium beam from the TANDEM XPU facility at INFN Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro. γ rays from excited states in Ca42 were measured with the AGATA spectrometer. The magnitudes and relative signs of ten E2 matrix elements coupling six low-lying states in Ca42, including the diagonal E2 matrix elements of 21+ and 22+ states, were determined using the least-squares code gosia. The obtained set of reduced E2 matrix elements was analyzed using the quadrupole sum rule method and yielded overall quadrupole deformation for 01,2+ and 21,2+ states, as well as triaxiality for 01,2+ states, establishing the coexistence of a weakly deformed ground-state band and highly deformed slightly triaxial sideband in Ca42. The experimental results were compared with the state-of-the-art large-scale shell-model and beyond-mean-field calculations, which reproduce well the general picture of shape coexistence in Ca42., K.H.-K. acknowledges support from the Research Council of Norway under Grant No. 213442. T.R.R. acknowledges computing time at GSI-Darmstadt and support from Spanish MINECO under Programa Ramon y Cajal 11420 and FIS-2014-53434-P (T.R.R.). We also acknowledge the support by Generalitat Valenciana, Spain, under Grant No. PROMETEOII/2014/019 and by the FEDER funds of the European Commission (A. Gadea), Spanish Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad under contract FPA2014-57196-C5 (A. Jungclaus, A Gadea), German Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung (BMBF) under Contract No. 05P12PKFNE TP4 (B. Birkenbach), the Polish National Science Centre under Projects No. 2011/03/B/ST2/01894, No. DEC-2013/10/M/ST2/00427, No. 2013/08/M/ST2/00591, No. UMO-2014/14/M/ST2/00738 (COPIN-INFN Collaboration), No. 2015/17/B/ST2/01534, No. 2016/22/M/ST200269, the UK STFC under Grants No. ST/J000124/1 and No. ST/L005735/1. The EAGLE Collaboration thanks the European Gamma-Ray Spectroscopy Pool (GAMMAPOOL) for the loan of Ge detectors.

A new experimental setup to measure prompt-delayed γ-ray coincidences from isotopically identified fission fragments, over a wide time range of 100ns-200μ s, is presented. The fission fragments were isotopically identified, on an event-by-event basis, using the VAMOS++ large acceptance spectrometer. The prompt γ rays emitted at the target position and corresponding delayed γ rays emitted at the focal plane of the spectrometer were detected using, respectively, thirty two crystals of the AGATA γ-ray tracking array and seven EXOGAM HPGe Clover detectors. Fission fragments produced in fusion and transfer-induced fission reactions, using a 238U beam at an energy of 6.2 MeV/u impinging on a 9Be target, were used to characterize and qualify the performance of the detection system.

© 2017, SIF, Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany. A new experimental setup to measure prompt-delayed γ-ray coincidences from isotopically identified fission fragments, over a wide time range of 100ns-200μ s, is presented. The fission fragments were isotopically identified, on an event-by-event basis, using the VAMOS++ large acceptance spectrometer. The prompt γ rays emitted at the target position and corresponding delayed γ rays emitted at the focal plane of the spectrometer were detected using, respectively, thirty two crystals of the AGATA γ-ray tracking array and seven EXOGAM HPGe Clover detectors. Fission fragments produced in fusion and transfer-induced fission reactions, using a 238U beam at an energy of 6.2 MeV/u impinging on a 9Be target, were used to characterize and qualify the performance of the detection system.

The voltage-gated sodium channel Na

This paper presents the fatigue checking methodology of the steel bridge members according to Romanian norm SR 1911-98 and EN 1993-1-9. A comparative analysis regarding the fatigue checking of the main girders of a 30 m span steel railway bridge is made. The concluding remarks and observations are useful in the design activity of this type of structures.

This paper presents an analysis regarding the bending resistance of a slender plate girder having a longitudinal stiffener in the compression zone of the web.The influence of the longitudinal stiffener rigidity on the bending resistance of a slender girder of Class 4 section is analyzed, starting from the hypothesis that the transversal stiffeners are infinitely rigid.

A significant number of low molecular weight metal complexes as well as metal-free compounds that are capable of scavenging superoxide and/or other radicals and reactive species in simple systems have been proposed to be used as potential drugs in the case of various diseases and/or as antiaging agents. Some have been used or suggested to be used as diagnostic tools for the involvement of such species in biological processes. In the present work, analysis of such claims indicates that their use as specific detectors of superoxide or of other reactive oxygen species is unsupported and might be confusing. Many of these compounds exert beneficial effects by counteracting the toxic effects of oxidative stress in a significant number of models of pathological processes. However, it is concluded that these actions are more likely due to other effects including prooxidant actions and that their beneficial effects also may be exerted in pathological processes that do not practically involve reactive oxygen species. Adaptation may be a common mode of action explaining a sizable portion of the beneficial effect of the so-called mimics and other compounds including prooxidants.

The traditional view in the field of free radical biology is that free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are toxic, mostly owing to direct damage of sensitive and biologically significant targets, and are thus a major cause of oxidative stress; that complex enzymatic and nonenzymatic systems act in concert to counteract this toxicity; and that a major protective role is played by the phenomenon of adaptation. Another part of the traditional view is that the process of aging is at least partly due to accumulated damage done by these harmful species. However, recent workers in this and in related fields are exploring the view that superoxide radical and reactive oxygen species exert beneficial effects. Thus, such ROS are viewed as involved in cellular regulation by acting as (redox) signals, and their harmful effects are seen mostly as a result of compromised signaling, rather than due to direct damage to sensitive targets. According to some followers of this view, ROS such as hydrogen peroxide and superoxide are not just causative agents of aging but may also be agents that increase the life span by acting, for example, as prosurvival signals. The goal of this review is to recall that many of the effects of ROS that are interpreted as beneficial may actually represent adaptations to toxicity and that some of the most extravagant recent claims may be due to misinterpretation, oversimplification, and ignoring the wealth of knowledge supporting the traditional view. Whether it is time to abandon the free radical (oxidative stress) theory of aging is considered.

This paper is presenting a 3D, isothermal numerical analysis of a cylindrical porous journal bearing characterized by a self-circulating lubricating system that eliminates the necessity of an external circulating pump. The system includes a stationary porous bushing whose inner diameter faces the bearing clearance while the outer diameter faces a wrapped-around reservoir. The loaded, eccentric shaft is generating a high pressure zone in the convergent region followed by a low pressure zone in the divergent region causing the fluid to circulate naturally between the bearing clearance and the reservoir, as it passes through the porous bushing. The fundamental physics of the circulating mechanism are described, and its operation is numerically simulated. The study uses the complete 3D Navier–Stokes Equations (NSE) for the fluid motion in the bearing clearance and the adjacent reservoir. The flow inside the porous matrix is modeled using the Brinkman formulation with added pressure ‘penalties’ brought by the addition of the Darcy and Forchheimer terms. The bearing operates in the fully hydrodynamic lubricating regime disregarding surface roughness effects. A cavitation model proposed by Singhal et al. (2002 [1] ) is utilized in the numerical simulation to account for flow and pressure characteristics in the divergent region. The parameters used during the simulations are angular velocity, permeability, porosity, reservoir depth and shaft eccentricity. The results which include the flow patterns, pressure maps and attitude angles, are presented on a parametric basis, and confirm the functionality of the proposed self-circulating system. It was found that the load capacity decreases and the attitude angle increase as permeability increases, and depending on permeability ranges, the increase in the reservoir depth may result in a reduction of the load capacity. Further, certain combinations of geometric parameters and permeability values render the pressure build-up independent of the reservoir depth. Because an optimal configuration requires both a large fluid mass flows through the porous bed (for cooling purposes) and a large load carrying capability, two variables at odds with each other in the present model, an interactive parametric analysis is essential in order to optimize the load carrying capacity versus geometric and operational parameters.

This article presents a numerical investigation and some experimental results supporting evidence on the flow structure and the pressure distribution in a hydrostatic journal bearing with six equidistant pockets. The parametric studies are of both operational and geometric nature. The operational ones include shaft's angular speed and inlet pressure. The geometric ones include pocket depth, eccentricity, clearance and restrictor diameter. The latter two are instrumental in changing the ratio of the restrictor to clearance hydraulic resistance (R). The flow regime in the bearing is kept in the laminar range (Rebrg < 60). It was found that for the deep pocket the pressure is uniformly distributed across its circumferential length, whereas for the shallow pocket it increases in a ramp fashion along the direction of rotation. The oil injected through the restrictor forms a penetrating jet that constitutes the driver of the upstream and downstream vortical cells that eventually interact with the Couette effect...

The aim of this study was to synthesize a series of quinoline-pyrimidine hybrids and to evaluate their in vitro antimalarial activity as well as cytotoxicity. The hybrids were brought about in a two-step nucleophilic substitution process involving quinoline and pyrimidine moieties. They were screened alongside chloroquine (CQ), pyrimethamine (PM) and fixed combinations thereof against the D10 and Dd2 strains of Plasmodium falciparum. The cytotoxicity was determined against the mammalian Chinese Hamster Ovarian cell line. The compounds were all active against both strains. However, hybrid (21) featuring piperazine linker stood as the most active of all. It was found as potent as CQ and PM against the D10 strain, and possessed a moderately superior potency over CQ against the Dd2 strain (IC(50): 0.157 vs 0.417 μM, ∼threefold), and also displayed activity comparable to that of the equimolar fixed combination of CQ and PM against both strains.

There is interest in the identification and optimization of new molecular entities selectively targeting ion channels of therapeutic relevance. Peptide toxins represent a rich source of pharmacology for ion channels, and we recently reported GpTx-1 analogs that inhibit NaV1.7, a voltage-gated sodium ion channel that is a compelling target for improved treatment of pain. Here we utilize multi-attribute positional scan (MAPS) analoging, combining high-throughput synthesis and electrophysiology, to interrogate the interaction of GpTx-1 with NaV1.7 and related NaV subtypes. After one round of MAPS analoging, we found novel substitutions at multiple residue positions not previously identified, specifically glutamic acid at positions 10 or 11 or lysine at position 18, that produce peptides with single digit nanomolar potency on NaV1.7 and 500-fold selectivity against off-target sodium channels. Docking studies with a NaV1.7 homology model and peptide NMR structure generated a model consistent with the key potency and selectivity modifications mapped in this work.