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A single crystal of Zn2Te3O8 (ZTO) was grown using the conventional Czochralski technique. TGA analysis showed that the melting point of ZTO is 681 °C, while it exhibits a structural phase transition at 621 °C. The powder X-ray diffraction analysis of ZTO confirmed that it possesses a single crystalline monoclinic structure with the C2/c space group. An indirect band gap of 3.75 eV was estimated for the ZTO crystal based on its absorption spectrum. The X-ray-induced luminescence of the grown crystal comprised a broad band peaking at 565 nm, which can be tentatively assigned to the self-trapped exciton emission from the (Te3O8)4− molecular complexes. The photoluminescence measured under 280 nm excitation showed a broad band luminescence peaking at about 600 nm, and its intensity was significantly enhanced upon cooling the crystal from 300 K to 10 K. The photoluminescence decay time under 280 nm excitation was shown to have two exponential components in the range from 10 K to 175 K, which became a single exponential upon further heating the crystal. Low scintillation light was observed at room temperature both under α- and β-particle excitations from 241Am and 90Sr sources, respectively. The scintillation light yield measured under β-particle excitation from the 90Sr source was enhanced by about five orders of magnitude at 10 K in comparison to that at 300 K. The scintillation light yield measured at 10 K under the same experimental conditions for ZTO in comparison with the well-known cryogenic scintillator Li2MoO4 (LMO) was shown to have four times higher scintillation light. A single-crystal ingot of ZTO was obtained for the first time; however, it had several cracks due to its phase transition. Notably, scintillation at low temperatures for a Te-based crystal was observed for the first time. These preliminary findings are very promising and show that ZTO will be a good candidate for cryogenic phonon scintillation detectors for the 0νββ decay search of 130Te. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inclusive research—in which people with an intellectual disability both collaborate with researchers and work as researchers themselves—has gained increased attention over the last three decades. Although the foundational principles of conducting inclusive research are well‐established at this point, there is a relative dearth of insights concerning the underlying reasons for collaborating as part of inclusive research projects. Therefore, this study sought to identify the reasons why researchers with experiential knowledge (n = 9), academic researchers (n = 8) and principal investigators (n = 10) collaborate within inclusive research projects. All 27 participants were interviewed individually, in order to explore their reasons for collaborating within one of the six inclusive research projects, which encompassed a range of research avenues within the field of intellectual disability research. A thematic analysis was conducted to gain insight into these reasons. For the three groups of participants, several themes emerged, such as experiencing full participation (researchers with experiential knowledge), making research (processes) better suited to the needs of participants with an intellectual disability (academic researchers) and striving for equivalence (principal investigators). Understanding why people collaborate within inclusive research projects is important for facilitating collaborative partnerships, which are a precondition for inclusive research projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of the present report wasto describe a novel technique of robotic abdominoperineal resection (APR) for the treatment of T4b low rectal cancer using the da Vinci® Single-Port (SP) system (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, USA). Methods: A 3-cm transverse incision was made in the left lower quadrant of the abdomen, in the area designated for permanent colostomy. A Uniport® (Dalim Medical, Seoul, Korea) was introduced and a 25 mm multichannel SP trocar was inserted into the Uniport. A 5-mm laparoscopic assistant port was introduced on the upper midline. A video showing each step of the technique is attached. Results: Two consecutive female patients (70 and 74 years old) underwent SP robotic APR with partial resection of the vagina 8 weeks after preoperative chemoradiotherapy. In both cases, rectal cancer was located 1 cm above the anal verge and invaded the vagina (initial stage and ymrT stage T4b). Operative time was 150 and 180 min, respectively. Estimated blood loss was 10 and 25 ml, respectively. No postoperative complications occurred. The length of postoperative hospital stay was 5 days in both cases. The final pathological stage was ypT4bN0 and ypT3N0 respectively. Conclusions: In this first experience, SP robotic APR appears to be a safe and feasible procedure for locally advanced low rectal cancer. In addition, the invasiveness of the procedure is reduced by means of the SP system, which only requires a single incision in the area designated for colostomy. Prospective studies on a larger number of patients are necessary to confirm the outcomes of this technique compared to other minimally invasive approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Er3+ doped alkali oxyfluorophosphate glasses were prepared by the melted quenching method and characterized their optical and photoluminescence properties. Firstly, the chemical compositions of glasses were varied by changing alkali fluoride (LiF and NaF), whereas the concentration of Er3+ was fixed at 1.00 mol%. The optical absorption pattern and intensity were resemblance. Broadband 1.53 μm emission was one prominent peak of Er3+ in glass and the highest emission intensity was obtained for NaF glass under the stimulating at 521 nm. Secondly, the NaF glass was prepared by variation of Er3+ concentration (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 mol%). The emission intensity of glasses increases with an increase in Er2O3 concentration up to 2.00 mol% and decreases for higher Er2O3 concentration, because of the concentration quenching effect. Broadband emission was observed that it covers three telecommunication windows: S, C, and L bands. The absorption and emission cross-section of 2.00 mol% of Er3+ doped alkali oxyfluorophosphate were found to be 1.3895 x 10−20 cm2 and 1.7248 x 1020 cm−2, respectively by using the McCumber theory. Both values led to the estimate of the internal gain coefficient for 4I13/2→4I15/2 emission transition. The gain coefficient is positive when P is higher than 40%. All results point out that Er3+ doped alkali oxyfluorophosphate glass could be useful for fiber optic communication material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Observation of growing phase space density (PSD) peak in the outer electron radiation belt has been considered evidence for local wave‐driven acceleration as a primary cause of radiation belt enhancement. However, recent studies showed that strong substorm‐associated MeV electron injections can also cause significant radiation belt enhancements on fast timescales (∼10s min). Such rapid enhancements pose challenges for determining true spatial PSD profiles. To address this, we conduct a detailed spatiotemporal analysis of electron flux and PSD during an enhancement event, using Van Allen Probes data. Our analysis reveals rapid and intermittent flux enhancements. During these rapid enhancements, inbound spacecraft observed false PSD peaks, due to spacecraft's relatively slow movement. However, we identify time intervals of stable fluxes between enhancements, enabling us to determine quasi‐stationary PSD profiles with no noticeable peaks. This study provides new insights into accurate PSD analysis, critical for understanding the mechanisms underlying radiation belt enhancements. Plain Language Summary: Radiation belt physics studies the origin and dynamics of high‐energy electrons trapped in the Earth's radiation belts. The radial profiles of these electrons' phase space density (PSD) are essential parameters for investigating their origin and dynamics. Outward‐increasing PSD profiles indicate that electrons have been transported radially (injections) from outside the radiation belt, while locally peaked profiles suggest that they were generated locally within the belt. Obtaining accurate PSD profiles is challenging due to significant temporal changes in electron flux, particularly rapid flux enhancements from injections as observed in recent studies. To examine the impact of rapid flux enhancements on PSD analysis, we closely tracked electron flux changes in space and time during an enhancement event using data from NASA's Van Allen Probes. Our results show that inbound spacecraft can observe falsely peaked PSD profiles during rapid flux enhancements, which are temporal artifacts from relatively slower spacecraft motion. By identifying time intervals of stable electron flux between enhancements, we were able to determine the true spatial PSD profiles, which overall exhibited outward‐increasing trends, consistent with injections. Our findings offer new perspective on accurately determining PSD radial profiles, which is essential for unraveling the origins of high‐energy electrons in the Earth's radiation belts. Key Points: Rapid and intermittent electron enhancement pattern significantly impacts phase space density (PSD) analysisInbound spacecraft can observe a temporal PSD peak during rapid electron enhancements driven by injectionsQuasi‐stationary time intervals between enhancements enable accurate determination of PSD radial profiles [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is a response to a comment on a previous study about intubation aids in hyperangulated videolaryngoscopy. The authors acknowledge the significance of the shape of the stylet in tracheal intubation success and discuss the variations in materials, characteristics, and techniques associated with these adjuncts. They also clarify that the Cormack and Lehane grading system, which evaluates the view achieved during intubation, holds value in airway evaluation and difficult tracheal intubation analysis. The authors agree that future research should specify the experience of airway management practitioners and highlight the importance of selecting the most suitable adjunct for hyperangulated videolaryngoscopy. [Extracted from the article]

This paper is concerned with the multi-objective optimization of thickness-wise CNT distribution in functionally graded porous CNT-reinforced composite (FG-porous CNTRC) beams. The mechanical behaviors of FG-porous CNTRC structures are strongly influenced by the thickness-wise distributions of CNTs and porosity. Nevertheless, several linear functions were simply adopted to represent the thickness-wise CNT distribution without considering the porosity distribution, so these assumed linear primitive CNT distribution patterns are not sufficient to respond to arbitrary loading and boundary conditions. In this context, this study presents the multi-objective optimization of thickness-wise CNT distribution in FG-CNTRC porous beams to simultaneously minimize the peak effective stress and the peak deflection. The multi-objective function is defined by the larger value between two normalized quantities and the design variable vector is composed of the layer-wise CNT volume fractions. The constrained multi-objective optimization problem is formulated by making use of the exterior penalty-function method and the aspiration-level adjustment. The proposed optimization method is demonstrated through the numerical experiments, and the optimization solutions are investigated with respect to the porosity distribution and the combination of aspiration levels for two single-objective functions. It is found from the numerical results that the optimum CNT distribution is significantly affected by the porosity distribution. Furthermore, the proposed method can be successfully used to seek an optimum CNT distribution within FG-porous CNTRC structures which simultaneously enhances the multi-objective functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the development of a dual-detector system designed for investigating the spectral shape of forbidden non-unique beta decays. Two PbMoO4\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\usepackage{amsmath}\usepackage{wasysym}\usepackage{amsfonts}\usepackage{amssymb}\usepackage{amsbsy}\usepackage{mathrsfs}\usepackage{upgreek}\setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt}\begin{document}$$_4$$\end{document} scintillating crystals were carefully prepared for heat and light detection at milli-Kelvin (mK) temperatures. Notably, one crystal was synthesized using archaeological lead, while the other was composed of natural modern lead. The significance of employing two crystals lies in their identical dimensions and proximity, resulting in similar environmental background exposure. Their distinct internal radioactivities, particularly associated with 210\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\usepackage{amsmath}\usepackage{wasysym}\usepackage{amsfonts}\usepackage{amssymb}\usepackage{amsbsy}\usepackage{mathrsfs}\usepackage{upgreek}\setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt}\begin{document}$$^{210}$$\end{document}Pb, introduce a distinguishing factor between the spectra measured in the two detectors. Our detection method includes achieving clear particle identification through the relative amplitudes of light and heat signals for both crystals. This report compares the electron-induced spectra within energy regions both below and above the endpoint of 210\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\usepackage{amsmath}\usepackage{wasysym}\usepackage{amsfonts}\usepackage{amssymb}\usepackage{amsbsy}\usepackage{mathrsfs}\usepackage{upgreek}\setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt}\begin{document}$$^{210}$$\end{document}Bi beta decay. This comparative study provides valuable insights into an exact measurement of the 210\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\usepackage{amsmath}\usepackage{wasysym}\usepackage{amsfonts}\usepackage{amssymb}\usepackage{amsbsy}\usepackage{mathrsfs}\usepackage{upgreek}\setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt}\begin{document}$$^{210}$$\end{document}Bi decay spectrum, forbidden non-unique beta decay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Hyperangulated videolaryngoscopes are known to increase the success rate of tracheal intubation in the setting of difficult airway management when used with a stylet or bougie. However, there is controversy over which adjunct is more useful. This randomised study aimed to compare first attempt tracheal intubation success rate between a stylet and bougie when using a hyperangulated videolaryngoscope. We recruited patients aged > 20 years who were scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia and required tracheal intubation. We only included patients with factors predicting difficult tracheal intubation based on pre‐anaesthesia airway evaluation. Tracheal intubation was attempted using a Glidescope® with either a stylet or bougie as an adjunct according to group assignment. Primary outcome was the success rate of the first tracheal intubation attempt, and secondary outcomes were success of second and third attempts; tracheal intubation time; and occurrence of sore throat, dysphagia or hoarseness. A total of 166 patients were included. The success rate of the first tracheal intubation attempt was significantly higher in patients allocated to the bougie group compared with those allocated to the stylet group (81/83 (98%) vs. 73/83 (88%), respectively; p = 0.032). The number of patients who needed two attempts was significantly lower in those allocated to the bougie group compared with those allocated to the stylet group (1/83 (1%) vs. 9/83 (11%), respectively; p = 0.018). Each group had one patient (1%) where tracheal intubation was achieved after a third attempt. There was no significant difference in the occurrence of sore throat, dysphagia and hoarseness between the two groups. When difficult tracheal intubation is anticipated and a hyperangulated videolaryngoscope is used, the success rate of the first attempt is higher when a bougie is used compared with a stylet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We developed a novel suprapubic single-port robotic right hemicolectomy (spRHC) procedure for patients with right colon cancer using a da Vinci SP Surgical System. The aim of this study was to determine the safety and feasibility of this technique. Methods: We performed the spRHC procedure on five patients with right colon cancers between July and September 2020. All procedures including colon mobilization, D3 lymphadenectomy, and intracorporeal anastomosis were completed using the single-port robotic platform through a mini-transverse suprapubic incision and an additional assistant port. Data regarding patient characteristics, perioperative outcomes and pathologic results were analyzed. Results: Four of the five patients were males. The median age was 69 years (range, 58–77 years).Two patients received preoperative chemotherapy for advanced colon cancer. The median total operative time was 160 min (range, 150–240 min). The median docking time was 4 min 40 s (range, 2 min 10 s–5 min 10 s). The median console time was 105 min (range, 100–120 min). There were no conversions to multiport or open surgeries. The median hospital stay was 7 days (range, 5–12 days). One patient experienced a wound infection. The median number of harvested lymph nodes was 41 (range, 39–50 lymph nodes). Conclusions: SpRHC is safe and feasible. However, further comparative studies are needed to assess whether this procedure can provide patients with significant benefits compared with multiport robotic surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The da Vinci single-port (SP) system is designed to facilitate single-incision robotic surgery in a narrow space. We developed a new procedure of rectal resection using this system. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the technical feasibility and safety of SP robotic rectal resection for rectal cancer patients based on our initial experience. Methods: A study was conducted on consecutive patients with mid or low rectal cancer who had SP robotic resection at our institution between July and September 2020. The demographic characteristics, perioperative data, and pathology results of the patients were retrospectively analyzed. Results: There were 5 patients (3 males, 2 females, median age 57 years (range 36–73 years). The median tumor height from the anal verge was 4 cm (range 3−5 cm). Two patients received preoperative chemoradiotherapy for advanced rectal cancer. A single docking was conducted, and the median docking time was 4 min 20 s (range 3 min 30 s to 5 min). The median total operation time was 195 min (range 155−240 min), and the median time of pelvic dissection was 45 min (range 36−62 min). All patients had circumferential and distal tumor-free resection margins. One patient experienced an anastomosis-related complication. The median duration of hospital stay was 7 days (range 7−8 days). Conclusions: Our initial experience suggests that SP robotic rectal resection is safe and feasible. Further clinical trials comparing SP and multiport robotic rectal resection should be conducted to verify the superior aspects of this new system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid injection of MeV electrons associated with strong substorm dipolarization has been suggested as a potential explanation for some radiation belt enhancement events. However, it has been difficult to quantify the contribution of MeV electron injections to radiation belt enhancements. This paper presents two isolated MeV electron injection events for which we quite precisely quantify how the entire outer‐belt immediately changed with the injections. Tracking detailed outer‐belt evolution observed by Van Allen Probes, for both events, we identify large step‐like relativistic electron enhancements (roughly 1 order of magnitude increase for ∼2 MeV electron fluxes) for L ≳ 3.8 and L ≳ 4.6, respectively, that occurred on ∼30‐min time scales nearly instantaneously with the injections. The enhancements occurred almost simultaneously for 10s keV to multi‐MeV electrons, with the lowest L of enhancement region located farther out for higher energy. The outer‐belt stayed at these new levels for ≳several hours without substantial subsequent enhancements. Plain Language Summary: Since the discovery of the Earth's radiation belts, the populations of energetic particles trapped by the magnetic fields, understanding the origin of radiation belt relativistic electrons has been one of the primary goals in space physics. One proposal for their source is that relativistic electrons are rapidly injected from outside the radiation belts associated with dramatic changes of the background magnetic field. To explore the importance of this process, we conduct a case study of two isolated injection events. With a new analysis technique, we quite precisely determine how the entire radiation belt electron population immediately changed with the injections. For both events, we find large, step‐like relativistic electron enhancements in a significant part of the outer radiation belt. The enhancements occurred promptly with the injections on extremely fast time scales that are comparable to the injection process. Furthermore, they occurred almost simultaneously for a wide energy range, showing an energy‐dependent feature that can be explained by injection process. After the enhancements, the outer‐belt relativistic electron intensities stayed at the enhanced levels for at least several hours without substantial subsequent enhancements, indicating that the enhancements occurred discretely with the injections. Key Points: Quantitative determination of prompt and global outer‐belt responses for two MeV electron injection eventsLarge step‐like outer‐belt relativistic electron enhancements on ∼30‐min time scales nearly instantaneously with the injectionsThe extremely fast step‐like outer‐belt enhancements for the two events are most‐likely injection‐driven [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) was related to a 1.28 times higher risk of osteoporosis. In addition, osteoporosis was associated with a 1.34 times higher risk of BPPV. This bidirectional relation was maintained after adjusting past medical histories and lifestyle factors, including obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption. To our knowledge, this is the first study to explore the reciprocal association between BPPV and osteoporosis. In subgroup analyses, only women showed a reciprocal association between BPPV and osteoporosis. Introduction: A previous population cohort study suggested an association between osteoporosis and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). This study aimed to investigate the bidirectional association between BPPV and osteoporosis. Methods: The Korean National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening Cohort data from 2002 to 2013 were used. In study I, the 50,897 osteoporosis patients were 1:1 matched with control I participants for age, sex, income, and region of residence. The previous histories of BPPV were analyzed in both groups using conditional logistic regression analysis. In study II, 9621 BPPV patients were 1:4 matched with control II participants. The previous histories of osteoporosis were analyzed in both groups using conditional logistic regression analysis. According to age and sex, subgroup analyses were achieved in both studies I and II. Results: A total of 1.6% (822/50,897) of osteoporosis patients and 1.3% (644/50,897) of control I participants had BPPV. The osteoporosis patients demonstrated a 1.28 times higher chance of developing BPPV (95% confidence intervals [95% CI] = 1.16–1.42, P < 0.001). In study II, 21.2% (2040/9621) of BPPV patients and 17.6% (6790/38,484) of control II participants had osteoporosis. The BPPV patients showed 1.34 times higher chance of having osteoporosis (95% CI = 1.26–1.43, P < 0.001). In the analysis of the women subgroup, these relations were reliable. Conclusion: Osteoporosis patients had increased odds of having BPPV. On the other hand, BPPV patients had increased odds of having osteoporosis. This bidirectional relation was consistent only in the women subgroup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single crystals of LiI with different Ag concentrations are investigated for dual-mode thermal neutron and γ-ray detection. The crystal growth and scintillation properties of these crystals have been studied and reported in our recent communication. On the other hand, a LiI crystal with Eu2+ dopant was used for thermal neutron detection using pulse height discrimination (PHD). However, the LiI:Eu crystal has a disadvantage in the case of high-energetic gamma background which is usually accompanied with neutrons in practical applications. In this case, LiI:Ag might be a better option since it can distinguish neutrons and γ-signals by both pulse shape discrimination (PSD) and PHD. The PSD capability of LiI:Ag was checked for alpha and gamma signals. The figure-of-merit (FOM) value was estimated to be 1.7 using the charge comparison method. LiI:Ag crystals were encapsulated for neutron measurements using 252Cf and Am–Be sources. The best FOM value was obtained to be 1.5 for the LiI:0.1%Ag crystal. The current investigation reveals that LiI:Ag can be a promising candidate for the dual-mode thermal neutron and γ-ray spectroscopy applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium aluminium gadolinium phosphate (KAGP) doped with difference contents of Sm3+ ion were synthesized by melt-quenching technique. The samples were further used to measure some physical, optical and luminescence properties. Absorption spectra show the hypersensitive transitions 6H5/2 → 6P3/2 and 6H5/2 → 6F7/2 at the wavelengths 402 and 1233 nm respectively. The photoluminescence spectra were recorded under 401 nm excitation, displayed the emission bands at 562, 597, 644 and 703 nm that corresponding to the transitions 4G5/2 → 6HJ (J = 5/2, 7/2, 9/2, 11/2) respectively, and the concentration quenching of Sm3+ showed at 1.0 mol%. Using the highest concentration of Sm3+ for emission spectra, Judd–Ofelt (J–O) analysis was performed to calculate the various radiative properties such as transition probabilities (AR), radiative lifetimes (τR), branching ratios (βR) and stimulated emission cross-section (σ(λp)) for different excited states. From the results of J–O parameter found to be Ω2 > Ω6 > Ω4 and the highest value of radiative properties was 4G5/2 → 6H7/2 transition. The decay curve for lower concentration was single exponential and became non-exponential for higher concentrations of the 4G5/2 level. According to the chromaticity coordinates (Commission Internationale de l′Eclairage), it indicated that the KAGP glass doped Sm3+ ion at 1.0 mol% lies in orange region. The KAGP glass doped concentration of Sm3+ at 1.0 mol% has potential application in developing the orange laser and suitable for optical device also. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerium bromide (CeBr3) scintillation crystal were studied and analyzed from the photon and electron response measurements. For photon response measurements, the radioactive source has been used for the energy range of 0.356 MeV ≤ E ≤ 1.332 MeV. The 137Cs source irradiated with gamma ray energy at 0.662 MeV was used for the electron response measurement using Compton coincidence technique. The variable angles (θ) would generate the gamma energies corresponding to a scattering angle of 30° to 120°. The results of number of photoelectron (Nphe) show responds to linear trends for photon and electron response. The light yield shows increase with increasing the photon and electron energy. The results showed the non-proportionality of photon response and electron response demonstrated good proportional properties of all energy ranges and as the result, the crystal is a promising candidate for gamma or X-rays detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed measurement systems for the simultaneous detection of phonon and scintillation signals from Li 2 MoO 4 crystals based on the metallic magnetic calorimeter (MMC) technology. Two measurements were carried out using Li 2 MoO 4 crystals of different sizes. The first measurement was conducted with a compact detection system designed for a 1 × 1 × 1 cm 3 crystal. An advanced light detector with Neganov–Luke phonon amplification was adopted in the compact setup. Later, the second experiment was carried out using a cylindrical Li 2 MoO 4 crystal of 5 cm in diameter and 5 cm in height. Another light detector was implemented with a 2-in. Ge wafer and an MMC sensor. Both measurements resulted in simultaneous detection of heat and light signals. Clear particle discriminations between α - and β / γ -induced events were demonstrated by comparing amplitudes of the heat and light signals in both measurements. The heat signals in the larger setup showed an energy resolution of 18 keV FWHM for 2615 keV γ -rays. The energy linearity of the detector response was investigated for a suitable calibration near 3.034 MeV, the Q value of 100 Mo double-beta decay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The below band-gap optical-absorption characteristics of GaxIn1-xSb alloy system have been reported. The different dependencies of the hole and electron absorption mechanisms on wavelength result in significant changes of the absorption characteristics with alloy composition. In the undoped Ga-rich alloy compositions that are p type in nature (due to residual holes resulting from native defects), the inter-valence-band absorption has been found to be the dominant absorption mechanism. With decreasing Ga (increasing indium) mole fraction, the hole to electron ratio decreases for undoped samples. For such samples, absorption due to electrons becomes significant. With n-type extrinsic doping, intervalley transitions are seen for certain Ga-rich compositions, which also alter the absorption characteristics. The dependencies of various absorption mechanisms as a function of wavelength have been analyzed and discussed in this paper. Based on the theoretical analysis presented in this paper, one can calculate the extrinsic doping level necessary for each alloy composition in order to obtain high optical transparency necessary for infrared optical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surface electronic structure of 1500-Å-thick Fe3O4(100) films has been investigated by spin-resolved photoemission spectroscopy with vacuum ultraviolet synchrotron radiation. The films, epitaxially grown on MgO(100) substrates using plasma-assisted molecular-beam deposition, are briefly exposed to air during transfer to the photoemission chamber. It is shown that clean surfaces of Fe3O4 films after exposure to air can be recovered through mild annealing in an oxygen atmosphere. The presence of the characteristic Verwey transition, as detected in the valence-band photoemission spectra, provides evidence for the excellent electronic quality at the surface of these films. The top of the valence band is found to be negatively spin polarized, with a value of ≈-50%; this result strongly points towards the localized nature of the 3d states in this system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method for determining the surface diffusion coefficient and the activation energy of Ge adatoms on Si(001) has been developed. Ge self-assembled quantum dots (SAQDs) grown on a relaxed SiGe buffer layer preferentially nucleate over a network of buried 60° dislocations. The surface sites over the buried dislocations act as sinks of Ge adatoms. When the average dislocation spacing becomes larger than the surface diffusion length of Ge adatoms, denuded zones free of Ge SAQDs appear on both sides of buried dislocations and separating the preferentially nucleated SAQDs from the randomly nucleated ones. The denuded zone width and the inter-dot spacing of randomly nucleated SAQDs are completely dependent on the surface diffusion coefficient. By varying the substrate temperature during the growth, the activation energy for the surface diffusion can be determined from the equilibrium inter-dot spacing of the randomly nucleated Ge SAQDs. Moreover, the pre-exponential term in the diffusion constant can be determined by using Fick’s first law and the observation that the total incident flux of Ge adatoms impinging on the denuded zones equals the average rate of volume increase of SAQDs over dislocations. The diffusion coefficient of Ge adatoms on Si (001) is found to be Ds≅2.53×10-7 exp(-0.676±0.03 eV/kT) cm2/s in the temperature range from 650 to 725 °C. © 2004 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The lateral position is known to be advantageous for maintaining airway patency. This study compared the lateral and supine positions for tracheal extubation in pediatric patients when performing deep extubation.Objective: The hypothesis was that tracheal extubation in the lateral position would improve airway obstruction that often occurs immediately after extubation and can be a practical method.Material and Methods: This prospective randomized trial was performed in operating rooms in a tertiary care hospital and included 92 patients (3-12 years old) undergoing elective strabismus surgery. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: deep extubation in the supine position (group S) and deep extubation in the lateral position (group L). Oxygen saturation (SpO2) and the incidence of stridor, laryngospasm, and coughing after tracheal extubation were assessed.Results: The mean ± standard deviation of the lowest SpO2 values within 5 min after extubation was significantly higher in group L (98.3 ± 2.1%) than in group S (96.8 ± 2.5%, mean difference 1.5, 95% confidence interval, CI 0.5-2.5, p = 0.003). The incidences of stridor and laryngospasm of group L were significantly lower than those of group S (1/45, 2% vs. 8/45, 18%, respectively; relative risk 1.9, 95% CI 1.4-2.7, p = 0.03). The incidence of desaturation and coughing were not significantly different between groups.Conclusion: In pediatric patients deep extubation in the lateral position improved SpO2 and reduced the incidence of stridor and laryngospasm in the early emergence period when compared to extubation in the supine position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulsatilla koreana Nakai, or pasque flower has been used as a medicinal plant for the treatment of amoebic dysentery, malaria, and internal haemorrhoids. The extract of Pulsatilla koreana Nakai, itself, has not been yet investigated for potential antiobesity effects. In this study, the antiobesity effect was evaluated on preadipocyte differentiation of Pulsatilla koreana Nakai extracted by 70 % ethanol in 3T3-L1 cells. Pulsatilla koreana Nakai ethanol extract at doses of 20 µg/ml significantly decreased lipid droplet accumulation, the expression of transcription factors, including CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α, µ, δ, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma and mRNA levels of fatty acid synthase. Moreover, Pulsatilla koreana Nakai ethanol extract also activated the phosphorylation of 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase α. In conclusion, Pulsatilla koreana Nakai ethanol extract suppressed preadipocyte differentiation via down-regulation of CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, and fatty acid synthase by phosphorylation of 5'-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase α in adipocytes. This data suggested that Pulsatilla koreana Nakai ethanol extract be further explored as a new preventive and therapeutic agent against obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The piping phenomenon that occurs at a soil–structure interface, referred to as backward erosion piping, is often observed beneath hydraulic structures such as conduits buried in levees. In this study, the flow behaviour and piping characteristics at the soil–structure interface were investigated by theoretical analysis using ideal uniform spherical particles and simple experiments. The factors influencing backward erosion piping beneath a structure were evaluated, with the void characteristics of the soil particles and the roughness of the structure surface identified as significant factors that affected the phenomena and the interface flow behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ecosystem of munseom area (MA) in Jeju Island, one of the marine protected areas in South Korea, has been continuously threatened by lack of management and pollution of the surrounding sea area. As a result, the South Korean government is trying to implement the systematic management plan to conserve the marine ecosystem of the MA. This article tries to obtain information about the conservation value of the MA. To this end, this study examines household willingness to pay (WTP) for conserving the MA employing the contingent valuation (CV) approach. A total of 1000 South Korean households were involved in the CV survey using a dichotomous choice question. The mean yearly WTP for the conservation is estimated as KRW 1763 (USD 1.50) per household. The national value expanded from the sample to the population is worth KRW 34.0billion (USD 29.0 million) per year. The results imply that the conservation is supported by South Korean households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Interleukin (IL)‐31 is implicated in pruritus associated with pruritic skin diseases like atopic dermatitis. Although pruritus is a prominent feature in dermatomyositis (DM), few studies have evaluated the pathogenesis of DM‐associated itch. Objectives: To establish the prevalence of itch in DM, and to investigate the role of IL‐31 in DM‐related itch. Methods: Pruritus and disease activity of DM were evaluated by a visual analogue scale (VAS) and the Cutaneous Disease and Activity Severity Index (CDASI), respectively. Expression of IL‐31 and IL‐31 receptor alpha (IL‐31RA) in lesional DM, nonlesional DM and healthy control skin was evaluated by quantitative reverse‐transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence. Flow cytometry was performed on skin cells isolated from lesional DM skin to identify cellular sources of IL‐31 in DM. Results: Among 191 patients with DM, 50·8% had moderate‐to‐severe itch, and itch was correlated with increased cutaneous severity (r = 0·34). In patients with itchy DM, gene expression of IL31 and IL31RA in lesional skin was upregulated compared with nonlesional skin and healthy control skin. IL31 mRNA expression positively correlated with VAS itch score (r = 0·67). On immunofluorescence, immunoreactivity for IL‐31 and IL‐31RA was stronger in lesional skin. Flow cytometry showed that lesional DM skin contained significantly more IL‐31‐producing cells, and CD4+ cells were the most common cell type. Lenabasum, an emerging treatment for DM, significantly downregulated IL‐31 from CpG‐stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Conclusions: Increased skin IL‐31 may play a role in DM‐associated itch, and ongoing trials will evaluate the effects of systemic treatment on IL‐31 and itch in DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: P2Y10, along with GPR34 and GPR174, is a G protein‐coupled receptor that is activated by an endogenous lipid mediator lysophosphatidylserine (LysoPS). Its expression pattern and its function are completely unknown. We have previously shown that P2Y10 is one of the highly up‐regulated genes at the late differentiation stage during in vitro eosinophilopoiesis. Objective: We explored the expression and functions of P2Y10 in human cord blood (CB)‐derived and peripheral blood (PB) eosinophils. Methods: Real‐time PCR, FACS, Western blot, ELISA, and chemotaxis assays were performed to determine the expression and function of P2Y10. Results: As CB cells differentiated towards eosinophils, P2Y10 mRNA and protein were abundantly expressed. P2Y10 was the most highly expressed in the granulocytes from PB, to a lesser extent in monocytes, and least in lymphocytes. Further fractionation of granulocytes revealed that eosinophils express P2Y10 much more strongly than do neutrophils. PB eosinophils solely expressed P2Y10 among the three LysoPS receptors, while PB neutrophils expressed the three at comparable levels. LysoPS activated both CB and PB eosinophils to induce a robust ERK phosphorylation. Importantly, LysoPS was capable of triggering degranulation of ECP in PB eosinophils. This response was significantly reduced by pharmacological inhibitors of TNF‐alpha‐converting enzyme (TACE), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and ERK1/2, which were known to be required in P2Y10‐mediated signalling pathways. However, LysoPS had no effect on chemotaxis, differentiation, or eosinophil survival. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: LysoPS provokes eosinophil degranulation through P2Y10. Therefore, P2Y10 is a potential therapeutic target to control eosinophil‐associated diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In free flap reconstruction for head and neck cancer, achieving a haemodynamic target using excessive fluid infusion is associated with decreased flap survival rates and extended hospital stays. We hypothesized that goal-directed haemodynamic therapy would improve flap survival rates and shorten hospitalization periods.Methods: Patients scheduled for free flap reconstruction were randomly assigned to a goal-directed haemodynamic therapy group (n = 31) or a conventional haemodynamic therapy control group (n = 31). The control group received extra bolus fluid and ephedrine or norepinephrine to maintain a mean arterial pressure ≥ 65 mmHg. The goal-directed haemodynamic therapy group received a colloid solution as the extra bolus fluid to maintain a stroke volume variation < 12%; dobutamine, ephedrine, or norepinephrine was administered to maintain a cardiac index ≥ 2.5 l/min/m2 and mean arterial pressure ≥ 65 mmHg. Enhanced recovery after surgery protocols were not used except for fluid therapy. An otolaryngologist blinded to group assignments assessed flap outcomes and classified them as 'survival,' 'at risk' or 'failure.'Results: The hospitalization period was not significantly different between the groups. The goal-directed haemodynamic therapy group had significantly shorter intensive care unit stays and a higher flap survival rate. The crystalloid volume was significantly lower in goal-directed haemodynamic therapy group. Reoperation rates, post-operative complications, and laboratory data including inflammatory markers were similar between the groups.Conclusion: Compared to conventional haemodynamic therapy, goal-directed haemodynamic therapy does not reduce hospitalization periods; it may, however, reduce the length of intensive care unit stays and increase flap survival rates. Further studies including multi-centre trials with larger sample sizes are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study that analyzed the electrical properties and microstructure of indium arsenide ohmic contacts to n-type gallium arsenide semiconductors. Measurement of the contact resistance; Comparison of contacts prepared by sputter-deposition and evaporation; Effect of intervening oxide layer on indium arsenide and gallium arsenide interaction.

Presents a study that examined electrical properties and thermal stability of indium/tungsten ohmic contacts in gallium arsenide semiconductors. Analysis of the interfacial microstructure of the semiconductor; Measurement of the contact resistances; Influence of layer thickness on the contact resistances of the semiconductor.

Investigates the effects of dopants on surface-energy-driven secondary grain growth in silicon films. Description of the surface-energy-driven secondary grain growth; Theoretical background on the problem; Grain structure and grain-size distributions.

Studies the effects of silicon (Si)/(Si+carbon (C)) ratio in reaction gas stream on the growth and properties of monocrystalline Β-SiC films grown on Si (100) substrates via chemical vapor deposition. Method used to eliminate the subsurface damage caused by polishing; Dependence of growth rate and microstructure; Result of thermodynamic calculations.

The system of equations describing steady blood flow can be written as: Graph HT ht with Graph HT ht the coordinate of the centerline axis, Graph HT ht and Graph HT ht the flow rate and pressure, Graph HT ht the cross-sectional area of the vessel, Graph HT ht a geometry-related parameter tuned based on 3D simulations, Graph HT ht the blood density and Graph HT ht the kinematic viscosity. [Extracted from the article]

We study a problem related to the spin-coating process in which a fluid coats a rotating surface. Our interest lies in the contact-line region for which we propose a simplified travelling wave approximation. We construct solutions to this problem by a shooting method that matches solution branches in the contact-line region and in the interior of the droplet. Furthermore, we prove uniqueness and qualitative properties of the solution connected to the fourth-order nature of the equation, such as a global maximum in the film height close to the contact line, elevated from the average height of the film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: Quality of life (QoL) and functional outcomes are at risk of being impaired after rectal surgery, but there has been no large prospective study to thoroughly assess QoL according to surgical approach. We have investigated the impact of laparoscopic and robotic total mesorectal excision (TME) on QoL and functional outcomes. Method: Patients undergoing laparoscopic or robotic TME for rectal cancer between 2009 and 2013 were prospectively included in this questionnaire‐based survey of QoL together with variations in urinary and sexual function. A propensity score analysis was retrospectively conducted to compare outcomes between groups in a cohort matched 1:1 for age, sex, body mass index, preoperative chemoradiation status and tumour height. The survey was performed preoperatively and 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. Results: Global health status/QoL was similar between the two groups for 130 matched pairs, but the robotic group showed better role, emotional and social functioning and experienced less fatigue and financial difficulty. International Prostatic Symptom Scores in men increased postoperatively, with significantly less impairment in the robotic group at 6 months. These scores were comparable to preoperative scores at 6 months in the robotic group and at 12 months in the laparoscopic group. Of 48 sexually active men in each group, International Index of Erectile Function‐5 scores decreased postoperatively, returning to preoperative levels at 6 months in the robotic group and at 12 months in the laparoscopic groups. Conclusion: The robotic approach for TME was associated with less impairment of urinary and sexual function; QoL was comparable to the laparoscopic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hyaluronidase injection is a commonly performed treatment for overcorrection or misplacement of hyaluronic acid (HA) filler. Many patients often wants the HA filler reinjection after the use of hyaluronidase, though the optimal timing of reinjection of HA filler still remains unknown.Objectives: To provide the optimal time interval between hyaluronidase injections and HA filler reinjections.Methods: 6 Sprague–Dawley rats were injected with single monophasic HA filler. 1 week after injection, the injected sites were treated with hyaluronidase. Then, HA fillers were reinjected sequentially with differing time intervals from 30 minutes to 14 days. 1 hour after the reinjection of the last HA filler, all injection sites were excised for histologic evaluation.Results: 3 hours after reinjection of HA filler, the appearance of filler material became evident again, retaining its shape and volume. 6 hours after reinjection, the filler materials restored almost its original volume and there were no significant differences from the positive control.Conclusions: Our data suggest that the hyaluronidase loses its effect in dermis and subcutaneous tissue within 3–6 hours after the injection and successful engraftment of reinjected HA filler can be accomplished 6 hours after the injection. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

We estimated heritability (h2) and genetic and phenotypic correlations for carcass and meat quality traits of longissimus dorsi (LD) and semimembranosus (SM) muscles in 30-mo-old Hanwoo steers. Variance and covariance components were estimated using REML procedures under univariate and bivariate models. The mean carcass weight (CWT), eye muscle area (EMA), back fat thickness (BFT), and marbling score (MS) were 428.20 ± 46.30 kg, 87.38 ± 8.54 cm2, 13.00 ± 5.14 mm, and 5.21 ± 1.56, respectively. The mean CIE reflectance of meat lightness (L*), redness (a*), and yellowness (b*) were 40.01 ± 2.73, 22.37 ± 2.18, and 10.35 ± 1.46, respectively, in LD muscles and 36.33 ± 2.44, 22.91 ± 2.43, and 10.25 ± 1.65, respectively, in SM muscles. The mean Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF), intramuscular fat content (IMF), water-holding capacity (WHC), and protein and ash content in LD and SM muscles were 3.84 ± 0.96 and 6.52 ± 1.21 kg, 15.91 ± 4.39 and 5.10 ± 1.94%, 62.07 ± 3.38 and 71.61 ± 2.06%, 20.01 ± 1.39 and 21.34 ± 0.89%, and 0.80 ± 0.10 and 0.93 ± 0.07, respectively. The h2 estimates of CWT, EMA, BFT, and MS were 0.51 ± 0.13, 0.45 ± 0.13, 0.29 ± 0.09, and 0.22 ± 0.08, respectively. The h2 estimates were moderate for meat quality traits and were 0.37 ± 0.12, 0.40 ± 0.12, 0.33 ± 0.10, 0.33 ± 0.10, 0.30 ± 0.11, and 0.24 ± 0.09 for L*, WBSF, IMF, WHC, and protein and ash content, respectively, in LD muscle; estimates from SM muscle were comparatively low (0.08 ± 0.06 to 0.25 ± 0.09). Estimates of h2 for a* and b* were also low (0.08 ± 0.06 to 0.13 ± 0.07). Carcass weight had a moderate, positive genetic correlation with EMA (0.60 ± 0.13) and a weak correlation with MS and BFT. The genetic correlations among the 3 colorimeter variants were strong and positive within and between muscles. Intramuscular fat content had moderate to strong and negative genetic correlations with WBSF (-0.49 ± 0.18), WHC (-0.99 ± 0.01), and protein (-0.93 ± 0.04) and ash content (-0.98 ± 0.06) in LD muscle, whereas the associations were less pronounced in SM muscle. In general, CWT and EMA had low genetic and phenotypic correlations with meat quality traits, which suggests that the traits are independent and have distinct genetic contributions in each muscle. Conversely, with few exceptions, meat quality traits had genetic and phenotypic correlations with MS and BFT. In conclusion, the estimated genetic parameters for carcass and meat quality traits could be used for genetic evaluation and breeding programs in Korean Hanwoo cattle populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate the features of heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) as agrins of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) and circulating anti–heparan sulfate (HS) antibodies in lupus nephritis, comparing titers among the following groups: lupus nephritis (LN), non-renal lupus, non-lupus nephritis, and healthy controls. Methods The stage of nephritis was determined based on the kidney biopsy. Alcian blue staining and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for agrin were performed for histological evaluation of GBM HSPGs in normal glomeruli, non-lupus membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN), and lupus MGN. The results were used for measurement of the serum anti-HS antibody titers using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in the following groups: 38 healthy controls, 38 non-lupus nephritis, 37 non-renal lupus, and 38 LN. Results Glomerulus HSPGs were stained bluish-green along the GBM with Alcian blue. However, IHC staining against agrin was almost completely negative in the lupus MGN group compared with the normal and non-lupus MGN groups, which showed brown staining of GBM. A higher level of anti-HS IgG was detected in LN compared with other groups, respectively. Higher titers were associated with the presence of SLE and nephritis. A higher degree of proteinuria normalized to glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was observed in association with higher anti-HS antibody titers in LN. Conclusion This study demonstrated a functional loss of GBM HSPGs and higher levels of circulating anti-HS antibodies as a characteristic feature of lupus nephritis, suggesting their involvement in the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis and proteinuria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ideal closed hydroponic system would include automated preparation of nutrient solutions, including reuse of the drain solution with replenishment of fertilizers and water in proper ratios based on real-time measurement of various nutrient concentrations in the drain solution. The electrical conductivity (EC) based systems commonly used for managing hydroponic nutrients in closed systems do not allow individual corrections to each nutrient deficient for crop growth. To improve the performance of a PC-based nutrient management system originally developed in our previous study, this article describes the development and evaluation of a WinCE-based embedded system with robustness and an easy-to-use user interface, consisting mainly of a micro-control unit (MCU) based embedded nutrient controller and an array of ion-selective electrodes (ISEs) that can automatically control the nutrient replenishment events based on real-time measurements of NO3, K, and Ca concentrations. To overcome the problem of decoupled replenishment among the three nutrients found in the previous study, a robust fertilizer dosing algorithm was designed that can separately calculate the volumes of six nutrient stock solutions to be supplied in a sequential order according to specific ions. In a five-step spiking test, the use of a twopoint normalization method prior to each measurement sequence coupled with the robust nutrient dosing algorithm enabled the system to formulate five different concentrations of NO3 and K ions comparable to the target concentrations. However, the five different Ca concentrations prepared were almost 33% higher than the target concentrations because of low Ca estimates due to a change in the sensitivity of the Ca ISE between the different background solutions used for calibration and measurement. This could be overcome with the use of the same background solution or a pre-sensitivity compensation when an initial measurement is made. In a lettuce cultivation test conducted with the ebb-and-flow method over 27 days, the nutrient control performance of the embedded system was improved as compared to the previously developed PC-based system while maintaining the target concentrations of 436, 117, and 80 mg L-1 within errors of -15.0 ±18.1, -5.0 ±10.0, and - 9.2 ±4.1 mg L-1 for NO3, K, and Ca ions, respectively. The use of the developed system in closed crop cultivation proved to be feasible for managing individual nutrients in reused solution at desired concentration levels, resulting in the potential of maximizing the efficiency of nutrient use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extranodal marginal zone B-cell type lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) in dogs has similar properties to human low-grade B-cell lymphoma. Both are characterised by a relatively low mitotic rate and a slow manifestation of clinical signs. Primary MALT lymphoma of the third eyelid in canines is very rare. In this case report we describe bilateral MALT lymphoma in a 21-month-old miniature poodle. Histological analysis indicated that the masses were mainly composed of lymphoid cells and lymphoepithelial lesions, a typical feature of MALT lymphoma. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the neoplastic cells were positive for CD79α, but negative for CD3. We believe that this case report will facilitate the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of canine MALT lymphoma of the third eyelid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An artificial membrane system was adapted to feed Ornithodoros turicata ( Ixodida: Argasidae) larvae from a laboratory colony using defibrinated swine blood. Aspects related to larval feeding and moulting to the first nymphal instar were evaluated. A total of 55.6% of all larvae exposed to the artificial membrane in two experimental groups fed to repletion and 98.0% of all fed larvae moulted. Mortality rates of first instar nymphs differed significantly depending on the sorting tools used to handle engorged larvae (χ2 = 35.578, P < 0.0001): engorged larvae handled with featherweight forceps showed significantly higher mortality (odds ratio = 4.441) than those handled with a camel-hair brush. Differences in the physical properties of the forceps and camel-hair brush may affect the viability of fragile soft tick larvae even when care and the same technique are used to sort them during experimental manipulations. The current results represent those of the first study to quantify successful feeding to repletion, moulting and post-moulting mortality rates in O. turicata larvae using an artificial membrane feeding system. Applications of the artificial membrane feeding system to fill gaps in current knowledge of soft tick biology and the study of soft tick-pathogen interactions are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The influence of different head and neck positions on the effectiveness of ventilation with the air-Q® self-pressurizing airway remains unevaluated. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of different head and neck positions on ventilation with the air-Q® SP airway.Methods: In this prospective, randomized crossover study, we enrolled 51 female patients who were to undergo elective gynaecological or breast surgery under general anaesthesia. An air-Q® SP airway was placed in all patients, and mechanical ventilation was performed using a volume-controlled mode with a tidal volume of 10 ml kg−1 and a respiratory rate of 12 bpm. The expiratory tidal volume, peak inspiratory pressure, oropharyngeal leak pressure, and ventilation score were assessed first for the neutral head position and then for the extended, flexed, and rotated head positions in a random order.Results: All parameters were similar for the rotated head and neck position and the neutral position. Compared with the neutral position, the oropharyngeal leak pressure and peak inspiratory pressure decreased in the extended position but increased significantly in the flexed position (P<0.001). However, the expiratory tidal volume and ventilation score decreased significantly in only the extended position (P<0.001) but were similar in the flexed and neutral positions.Conclusions: Ventilation was not adversely affected in the rotated or flexed head and neck positions, whereas head and neck extension negatively influenced ventilation. Clinically, it is better to avoid head and neck extension during ventilation with an air-Q® SP airway.Clinical trial registration: NCT02402387. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of various types of virus-like particles ( VLPs) has accelerated over the past two decades as the importance of VLPs for generating next-generation vaccines has been appreciated. Yeast has advantages such as scalable fermentation, low risk of contamination by adventitious agents, low production costs and the ability to produce VLPs with reliable qualities. It is generally recognized that yeast is suitable for producing VLPs that have simple structures and are produced intracellularly. However, recently there has been much effort to extend its applicability, and there is now evidence that it can be used as an expression platform for the productions of VLPs not only of nonenveloped viruses but also of enveloped viruses. Moreover, evidences indicated that yeast allows secretory VLP productions. Meanwhile, it has become evident that the quality and quantity of yeast-derived VLPs are influenced by the choice of plasmid and promoter, the ratio of the structural proteins produced. Here, we review the characteristics of the yeast expression system in terms of the production of VLP and compare it with other expression systems. We also consider strategies for VLP production in yeast and factors that need to be taken into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The low incidence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and lack of adequate controls have prevented researchers from estimating tuberculosis ( TB) risk in inflammatory bowel disease ( IBD) patients. Aim To evaluate the risk of incident TB among IBD patients. Methods Using the 2011-2013 data of the South Korean National Health Insurance (NHI) system, we calculated the incidence rates (IRs), standardised incidence ratio (SIR) and number needed to screen (NNS) for incident TB in IBD patients compared to the general population in terms of subtype, age, gender and IBD medications. Results The IR, SIR and NNS for TB in IBD patients were 223.9/100 000 person-years, 2.64 (2.30-3.01) and 446.6 (392.8-517.6), respectively. The TB IR in Crohn's disease ( CD) patients was significantly higher than that in ulcerative colitis ( UC) patients (340.1/100 000 person-years vs. 165.5/100 000 person-years, respectively; P < 0.001). The SIR and NNS for TB among CD patients were 4.00 (3.59-4.45) and 604.2 (506.1-749.6), respectively; those among UC patients were 1.95 (1.66-2.27) and 294.0 (246.9-363.4). The TB IRs in IBD patients did not differ significantly by age or gender ( Ptrend = 0.505 and P = 0.861, respectively). The TB IRs among IBD patients prescribed 5- ASA, corticosteroids, immunomodulators and anti- TNF-α were 143.5, 208.5, 284.6 and 554.1 per 100 000 person-years, respectively. Among IBD patients treated using anti- TNF-α, the TB IR was significantly higher than that among all IBD patients ( P < 0.001); the SIR and NNS for TB were 6.53 (5.99-7.09) and 180.5 (144.6-240.1) respectively. Conclusion Clinicians should be aware of the increased risk of active tuberculosis in patients with IBD who are receiving anti- TNF-α therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a motor neuron disease, is associated with various cortical symptoms including mild cognitive decline with behavior changes, suggesting the involvement of extra-motor areas in ALS. Our aim was to investigate the specific patterns of brain atrophy in sporadic, impaired ALS patients without commonly known genetic mutations using voxel-based morphometry. Materials and methods Forty-seven patients with sporadic ALS and 28 age-matched healthy controls were recruited. ALS participants were divided into three groups according to comprehensive neuropsychological testing: pure (ALS-pure), cognitive impairment (ALSci) and behavioral impairment (ALSbi). Quantitative comparison of brain atrophy patterns was performed amongst these three groups using voxel-based analysis. All analyses were adjusted for total intracranial volume, age, sex, disease duration and functional disability score. Results The ALSci group exhibited decreased volume in the left cerebellum, fusiform gyrus, optic radiations and corticospinal tracts compared to healthy controls. ALSci patient imaging showed decreased brain volume in the bilateral cerebellum, right putamen gray matter and bilateral superior longitudinal fasciculi white matter compared to pure ALS patients ( P < 0.001 uncorrected, corrected for the entire volume). Compared to healthy controls, ALS-pure and ALSbi groups did not show any significant volume changes in gray and white matter. Conclusions These findings also support the hypothesis that ALS pathogenesis has a dual focality of onset (cortex and anterior horn) with contiguous spread outwards. Additionally, neuropsychological features may be an important predictor of progression and survival rates in ALS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the age and growth of damselfish, Chromis notate, from Jeju Island in Korea. Samples were collected monthly by lift net from September 2013 to August 2014. Total lengths of the damselfish ranged from 6.4 to 15.3 cm. The relationship between total length and wet weight was WW = 0.0125TL3.1631 for females, and WW = 0.0091TL3.2769 for males. The slopes in the relationship between length and weight were not significantly different between sexes, but were significantly different in the intercepts. There were more female than male specimens (1.3:1). Age determination was conducted using the otoliths. Marginal increment (MI) declined in summer and winter, which suggests that two rings are formed each year. Ages of sampled individuals ranged from 1 to 5 years. Length-at-age data were fitted using the von Bertalanffy growth model. The estimated growth functions were L t = 19.93 [1 − exp−0.21 ( t + 0.811)] total length and wet weight was females, and L t = 16.47 [1 − exp−0.32 ( t + 0.499)] for males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lifetable demography and reproductive traits of a Kenyan strain of the rotiferBrachionus angulariswere investigated using individual and small batch culture approaches. The rotifer was identified morphologically before conducting studies at 20, 25 and 30 °C, usingChlorella vulgarisat 2.5 × 105to 2.5 × 107cells ml–1. The rotifers were highly fecund, producing 2.11 ± 0.07 offspring female–1day–1and reproductive, producing 8.43 ± 0.24 offspring female–1at 25 °C with 2.5 × 106algal cells ml–1. The highest intrinsic rate of natural increase (0.74 ± 0.02 d–1), specific population growth rate (0.49 ± 0.01), longest life expectancy at hatching (12.41 ± 0.28 d) and shortest generation time (2.87 ± 0.03 d) also occurred at 25 °C with 2.5 × 106algal cells ml–1. The duration of hatching to first spawning was shortest (2.86 ± 0.21 h) at 30 °C with 2.5 × 107algal cells ml–1and longest (8.83 ± 0.39 h) at 20 °C with 2.5 × 105algal cells ml–1. The highest population density (255.7 ± 12.6 ind. ml–1) was realised at 25 °C with 2.5 × 106cells ml–1on Day 8, whereas the lowest population density (122.0 ± 3.6 ind. ml–1) was realised at 20 °C with 2.5 × 105cells ml–1on Day 8. The lorica length and width of the Kenyan strain ofB. angularisare 85.6 ± 3.1 µm and 75.4 ± 3.6 µm, respectively. The rotifer optimally reproduces at 25 °C when fed with 2.5 × 106algal cells ml–1. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Two dogs were presented owing to sudden rapid growth of cutaneous masses greater than 10 cm on the neck and axillary region, respectively. Based on history and results of physical examinations, blood work, fine needle aspiration, histopathological examination, and computed tomography, inoperable grade III infiltrating mast cell tumours were diagnosed. After the initiation of imatinib treatment, the masses markedly shrank and became undetectable within 10 days in both dogs, although none of the tumour specimens showed evidence of mutations in sequencing of c-kit exons 8 and 11. These results suggest that imatinib could be a therapeutic option in patients with surgically inoperable canine mast cell tumours, even those that are histopathologically high grade without c-kit exon 8 or 11 mutations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]