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Degradation mechanisms of 275-nm-band AlxGa1-xN multiple quantum well deep-ultraviolet light-emitting diodes fabricated on a (0001) sapphire substrate were investigated under hard operation conditions with the current of 350 mA and the junction temperature of 105 °C. The optical output power (Po) initially decreased by about 20% within the operating time less than 102 h and then gradually decreased to about 60% by 484 h. For elucidating the causes for the initial and subsequent degradations, complementary electrical, time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL), and impurity characterizations were carried out making a connection with the energy band profiles. Because the degradation of the wells was less significant than the Po reduction, the initial degradation is attributed essentially to the decrease in carrier injection efficiency (ηinjection), not in internal quantum efficiency of the wells, most likely due to depassivation of initially H-passivated preexisting nonradiative recombination centers (NRCs) in a Mg-doped p-type Al0.85Ga0.15N electron blocking layer. The principal cause for the subsequent Po reduction until 484 h is attributed to further decrease in ηinjection due to the appearance of certain current bypasses in addition to continuous depassivation of the NRCs in p-type AlxGa1-xN layers. According to our database on the species of vacancy-type defects acting as NRCs in GaN and AlN, which have been identified using the combination of positron annihilation and TRPL measurements, vacancy clusters comprised of a cation vacancy (VIII) and nitrogen vacancies (VN), such as VIIIVN2∼4, are the most suspicious origins of the NRCs in Mg-doped p-type AlxGa1-xN layers.

The spectral energy distribution (SED) of galaxies provides fundamental information on the related physical processes. However, the SED is significantly affected by dust in its interstellar medium. Dust is mainly produced by asymptotic giant branch stars and Type II supernovae. In addition, the dust mass increases through the metal accretion, and the grain size changes by the collisions between the grains. The contribution of each process and the extinction depend on the size distribution. Therefore, the SED model should treat the evolution of the dust mass and size distribution. In spite of the importance of dust evolution, many previous SED models have not considered the evolution of the total mass and size distribution in a physically consistent manner. In this work, we constructed a new radiative transfer SED model, based on our dust evolution model consistent with the chemical evolution. To reduce the computational cost, we adopted the mega-grain and the one-dimensional plane parallel galaxy approximation. As a fiducial case, we calculated Milky Way-like galaxy SEDs at various ages under the closed-box model. We found that a galaxy at the age of 100~Myr does not produce small grains such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. After 1~Gyr, we observed a drastic increase of infrared emission and attenuation caused by a rapid increase of dust mass. This phenomenon can be treated appropriately for the first time by our new model. This model can be used for the SED fitting to a galaxy at any stage of evolution., 19 Pages, 19 Figures, accepted for publication in MNRAS

We present 850um imaging of the XMM-LSS field observed for 170 hours as part of the James Clerk Maxwell Telescope SCUBA-2 Large eXtragalactic Survey (S2LXS). S2LXS XMM-LSS maps an area of 9 square degrees, reaching a moderate depth of 1-sigma ~ 4 mJy/beam. This is the largest contiguous area of extragalactic sky mapped by JCMT at 850um to date. The wide area of the S2LXS XMM-LSS survey allows us to probe the ultra-bright (S_850um > 15 mJy), yet rare submillimetre population. We present the S2LXS XMM-LSS catalogue, which comprises 40 sources detected at >5-sigma significance, with deboosted flux densities in the range of 7 mJy to 48 mJy. We robustly measure the bright-end of the 850um number counts at flux densities >7 mJy, reducing the Poisson errors compared to existing measurements. The S2LXS XMM-LSS observed number counts show the characteristic upturn at bright fluxes, expected to be motivated by local sources of submillimetre emission and high-redshift strongly lensed galaxies. We find that the observed 850um number counts are best reproduced by model predictions that include either strong lensing or source blending from a 15 arcsec beam, indicating that both may make an important contribution to the observed over-abundance of bright single dish 850um selected sources. We make the S2LXS XMM-LSS 850um map and >5-sigma catalogue presented here publicly available., Accepted for publication in MNRAS

We present the initial results of our MeerKAT L-band observations of Abell 3376. We achieved higher (5″) angular resolution and better (∼4 μ Jy beam−1) sensitivity compared to the previous observations. Our achieved sensitivity is only a factor of 2 larger than the thermal noise of MeerKAT. Astrometric and flux comparison of discrete compact sources in the field between MeerKAT and the Very Large Array (VLA) indicated that our calibration procedures were successful. We detected West and East relics, and radio galaxies, which have been observed in previous works. With minimal missing flux problem in our MeerKAT observations, we derived the spectral indices of the West relic (−1.22 ± 0.05), East relic (−1.33 ± 0.08) and central radio galaxies (−0.94 ± 0.05). The improved images revealed faint, extending radio arcs for relics, and connection between the East relic and radio galaxies. It is probable that (at least some of) the re-accelerated electrons of the East relic are supplied by the jets of the radio galaxies. No significant diffuse radio emission was found in cluster central part, supporting previous works with a much better upper limit of radio flux of

Authors proposed to use low-bond high-strength reinforcement (LBHSR) as the longitudinal reinforcement of reinforced concrete (RC) columns to develop the self-centering RC engineering structures based on the experimental conclusions that the LBHSR minimized residual deformation of test columns because of the low-bond high-strength property. Because the structural form of the proposed RC column was simple and the technology was low-cost, author proposed to use this type of RC column to fabricate the bridge column system. Two bridge archetypes with single and double columns reinforced by LBHSRs and high-bond normal-strength reinforcements (HBNSRs) were designed for numerical analysis using OpenSees program. A modified Young’s modulus of steel rebar was used to simulate the steel-bond slip behavior of the proposed RC column with LBHSRs, and the comparison results proved the applicability of this method. Based on the proposed OpenSees element model, seismic fragility and post-earthquake reparability of the designed bridge archetypes with LBHSRs and HBNSRs were compared based on the incremental dynamic analysis results. It was found that the use of LBHSR could greatly improve the post-earthquake reparability and reduce the collapse probability of bridge archetypes. The equations of the FEMA and JRA codes (FEMA, 2009; Tarfan et al., 2019) were used to predict the residual lateral drifts of bridge archetypes, and the comparison results indicated that both codes much overestimated the residual lateral drifts.

Objective To describe our simplified technique for falloposcopic tuboplasty (FT) and demonstrate its principle and results. Design A step-by-step description of the technique and demonstration of its principle using a clay model. Setting Private infertility clinics in Osaka and Tokyo operated by 10 physicians. Patient(s) A total of 431 infertile women with a diagnosis of unilateral or bilateral proximal tubal occlusion (6 cm from the uterotubal ostia), between October 2013 and February 2019 were included. These patients underwent routine work-ups for infertility, including a semen analysis, hysterosalpingography, antimullerian hormone, basal luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone and prolactin concentrations during menstruation, postcoital test in the periovulatory period, and estradiol and progesterone concentrations in the middle of the luteal phase. Physicians performed hysterosalpingography to evaluate tubal patency and uterine shape. Saline infusion sonography was not conducted because it does not accurately identify regions of tubal occlusion and/or stenosis. Intervention(s) The principle of our simplified technique for FT is that a hole is located at the side of the FT catheter tip. Therefore, the balloon and fiberscope move away from the catheter line ( Fig. 1 ). The uterotubal ostium is located at the tip-end of the triangle of the uterine cavity. When a balloon is inserted while visualizing the uterotubal ostium at the nearest position to the ostium, the balloon hits the uterine wall. When a balloon is inserted 5–10 mm from the uterotubal ostium without visualization, the balloon may be easily placed in the ostium through its convex angle, allowing it to slide into the uterine wall ( Figs. 2 and 3 ). Step 1: Confirm anteflexion or retroflexion of the uterus by ultrasound. Step 2: Confirm the direction of the uterotubal ostia by hysteroscopy. Step 3: Adjust the angle of the FT catheter according to steps 1 and 2, insert the catheter into the end of the uterus, pull it back 5–10 mm (without visualizing the uterotubal ostia), and then fix it to the forceps. Catheter placement away from the tubal ostium is confirmed by the residual length of the moving part of the catheter. An attending instructor should ask the operator about the feeling of rigidity when the catheter does not advance and then suggest whether to proceed or stop. In the latter case, the catheter is not moved, saline is infused for 1 minute for lubrication, the balloon is pulled back using the fiberscope to remove the bunching of the balloon, and balloon pressure is changed as follows: 6→8→6→10→6 mmHg. Our institutional review board stated that approval was not required because the video describes the technique of our routine procedure. Main Outcome Measure(s) A description of the FT technique using a clay model and a demonstration of its application in our clinic. Result(s) The average operative time was 15.4 minutes, and the clinical pregnancy rate was 24.4% (natural conception and intrauterine insemination without in vitro fertilization). No significant differences were observed in the operative time or pregnancy rate among physicians. Approximately 17 FT procedures may be performed using one fiberscope. Conclusion(s) Our simplified technique, which was described and demonstrated in this video article, is a feasible and practical approach for performing FT. It provides excellent cost performance by saving fiberscopes. The most important point is “Introduce the balloon and fiberscope 5–10 mm away from the uterotubal ostia without visualizing it.” To facilitate learning this technique, we recommend watching the video and then practicing FT without searching for the uterotubal ostia. Physicians master FT without any assistance by an attending instructor in ≤3 attempts.

OBJECTIVES To characterise the clinical signs of suspected cerebrovascular disease in dogs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Medical records of one hospital were searched from November 2009 to December 2016 for dogs that suffered of cerebrovascular disease. We diagnosed cerebrovascular disease based on acute onset, clinical signs and magnetic resonance imaging findings. The medical history, clinical signs, concurrent disease, area of infarction, cerebrospinal fluid results, month at onset and outcome were investigated in the cerebrovascular disease group and in a control group (dogs with brain disorders other than cerebrovascular disease). RESULTS A total of 122 CVD cases were extracted from the 5312 patients that visited during the study period. Of these 122 cases, 66 (1.2%) matched the subject selection criteria of our study and were included in the analysis. Forebrain infarction was observed in 51 of 66 cases, of which 24 (47.1%) suffered from seizures. The number of dogs diagnosed with cerebrovascular disease was disproportionately high in August (nine of 59 cases) and December (13 of 59 cases). In the outcome survey, deterioration was observed in 11 of 55 cases. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Seizure is an important clinical sign of cerebrovascular disease in dogs. There was a significant seasonal variation in the number of dogs diagnosed with cerebrovascular disease in Japan. Clinical features observed in this report differ from those of previous reports and highlight the need for additional research in this area.

Self-sufficiency is a concept commonly used to explore well-being and success of adult refugees. Yet, this concept has not been widely applied to the integration of young adult refugees and immigrants who arrive to the United States unaccompanied and who enter foster care. Therefore, this study meets a gap in the literature by investigating self-sufficiency for immigrants who have recently discharged from the Unaccompanied Refugee Minor (URM) foster care program in the US. We analyze an administrative dataset client outcomes (n = 417) collected at discharge from the URM program from Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service’s network of URM programs across the United States. This study uses a path analysis model to examine direct paths between the outcome variable: self-sufficiency and a series of predictor variables including educational attainment, English proficiency level, and employment. Another hypothesis was that length of time spent in the URM program will indirectly influence self-sufficiency through improved English and educational attainment. Lastly, we posited that country of origin will indirectly influence self-sufficiency through educational attainment level. Findings show direct and positive relationships between employment and self-sufficiency; English proficiency and self-sufficiency; and greater educational attainment and self-sufficiency. Additionally, increased months in the URM foster care program positively influence self-sufficiency indirectly through both English proficiency and educational attainment. Results suggest that service providers should consider education, employment, and English language development in their casework with URMs to ensure the best chances of self-sufficiency as they enter adulthood. Additionally, the limitations of this administrative dataset illuminate specific ways in which the agency could improve data collection procedures, and future research.

We study spatially resolved scaling relations among stars, dust, and gas in ten nearby spiral galaxies. In a preceding paper Abdurro'uf et al. (2022), we have derived spatially resolved properties of the stellar population and dust by panchromatic spectral energy distribution (SED) fitting using piXedfit. Now, we investigate resolved star formation ($\Sigma_{\rm H_{2}}$--$\Sigma_{\rm SFR}$--$\Sigma_{*}$) and dust scaling relations. While the relations with all sub-galactic regions of the galaxies are reasonably tight ($\sigma \lesssim 0.3$ dex), we find that most of the scaling relations exhibit galaxy-to-galaxy variations in normalization and shape. Only two relations of $\Sigma_{\rm dust}$--$\Sigma_{\rm gas}$ and $\Sigma_{\rm dust}$--$\Sigma_{\rm H_{2}}$ do not show noticeable galaxy-to-galaxy variations among our sample galaxies. We further investigate correlations among the scaling relations. We find significant correlations among the normalization of the $\Sigma_{\rm H_{2}}$--$\Sigma_{\rm SFR}$--$\Sigma_{*}$ relations, which suggest that galaxies with higher levels of resolved $\text{H}_{2}$ fraction ($f_{\rm H_{2}}$) tend to have higher levels of resolved star formation efficiency (SFE) and specific star formation rate (sSFR). We also observe that galaxies with higher levels of resolved dust-to-stellar mass ratios tend to have higher levels of resolved sSFR, SFE, and $f_{\rm H_{2}}$. Moreover, we find that galaxies with higher global sSFR and less compact morphology tend to have higher levels of the resolved sSFR, SFE, and $f_{\rm H_{2}}$, which can explain the variations in the normalization of the $\Sigma_{\rm H_{2}}$--$\Sigma_{\rm SFR}$--$\Sigma_{*}$ relationships. Overall, we observe indications of the contributions of both global and local factors in governing the star formation process in galaxies., Comment: 28 pages, 13 figures, accepted for publication in ApJ. piXedfit v1.0 is publicly available at https://github.com/aabdurrouf/piXedfit. Documentation is available at https://pixedfit.readthedocs.io/en/latest/. Some tutorials of practical usages in jupyter notebooks can be found at https://github.com/aabdurrouf/piXedfit/tree/main/examples

Objective Examine the association of discrimination and short sleep and the buffering effect of people-oriented culture in the workplace among nurses and patient care associates. Methods Used a mixed-methods design from the 2018 Boston Hospital Workers Health Study (N = 845) and semi-structured interviews among nurse directors (N = 16). Results We found that people-oriented culture reduced the odds of short sleep and slightly attenuated the association of discrimination and short sleep. People-oriented culture did not buffer the effects of discrimination on short sleep. Qualitative findings showed that discrimination occurred between co-workers in relation to their job titles and existing support in the workplace does not address discrimination. Conclusions Healthcare industries need to implement specific programs and services aimed at addressing discrimination which can potentially improve health outcomes among workers.

Galaxy clusters are known to harbour magnetic fields. The nature of the intra-cluster magnetic fields remains an unresolved question. Intra-cluster magnetic field can be observed at the density contact discontinuity formed by cool and dense plasma running into hot ambient plasma, and the discontinuity exists near the 2nd BCG MRC 0600-399 of a merging galaxy cluster Abell 3376 (z=0.0461, hereafter as A3376). Elongated X-ray image in the east-west direction with a comet-like structure reaches a Mpc-scale (Fig1.(a)). Previous radio observations detected the bent jets from MRC 0600-399, moving in same direction as the sub-cluster's motion against ram pressure.Here we report a new radio observation of a radio galaxy MRC 0600-399 which is 3.4 times and 11 times higher resolution and sensitivity than the previous results. Contrary to typical jets, the MRC 0600-399 shows a 90deg bend at the contact discontinuity and the collimated jets further extend over 100 kpc from the bend point. Diffuse, elongated emission named "double-scythe" structures were detected for the first time. The spectral index flattens downstream of the bend point, indicating cosmic-ray re-acceleration. High-resolution numerical simulations reveal that the ordered magnetic field along the discontinuity plays a significant role in the change in the jet direction. The morphology of the "double-scythe" bear remarkable similarities with the simulations, which strengthens our understanding of the interaction between relativistic electrons and intra-cluster magnetic field., Comment: 4 figures

Study question To evaluate the effectiveness of chlormadinone acetate (CMA) for preventing premature LH surge in patients with normal ovarian reserve compared to cetrorelix. Summary answer In progestin-primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS) than GnRH antagonist (GnRH-ant), the incidence of premature LH surge was significantly lower, without significant difference in oocyte maturation rate. What is known already The GnRH-ant protocol is one of the conventional protocols which has some disadvantages including increased premature LH surge rate and cancelation rate. In recent years, the PPOS protocol has attracted attention as a new ovarian stimulation using progestin as an alternative to GnRH analog for suppressing a premature LH surge, however its efficacy is still controversial. In addition, many studies have investigated the reproductive outcomes of PPOS using medroxy-progesterone acetate or dydrogesterone; however, there are few reports of CMA, an oral progestin, which is inexpensive and widely used in Japan. Study design, size, duration This retrospective cohort study was performed in a reproduction center between March 2018 and October 2020 which included 977 Japanese patients with normal ovarian reserve undergoing PPOS with CMA (n = 299), or GnRH antagonist (GnRH-ant) with cetrorelix (n = 608) in their first IVF cycle at the reproduction center. In subgroup analysis, pregnancy outcomes after frozen embryo transfers (FET) between PPOS (n = 284) and GnRH-ant (n = 579) were also compared. Participants/materials, setting, methods The inclusion criteria were patients aged < 40 years and AMH ≧ 1.1 ng/mL, who underwent autologous oocyte retrieval in their first IVF cycle with freeze-all strategy. The primary outcome was the incidence of premature LH surge, the secondary outcomes was oocyte maturation rate. To reduce the impact of treatment bias and potential confounding factors, we conducted logistic regression models with inverse-probability-of-treatment weighting (IPTW). Main results and the role of chance After IPTW, baseline clinical data were well-balanced between the two groups, including age, AMH, BMI, the duration, type, and cause of infertility, antral follicle count, the history of recurrent spontaneous abortion, and previous IVF attempts. The premature LH surge rate was significantly lower with PPOS (3.1%) compared to GnRH-ant (20.1%) (odds ratio, 0.21; 95% confidence interval, 0.11–0.36). No significant differences were found in total gonadotropin dose (2400IU for PPOS vs 2400IU for GnRH-ant, p = 0.136), the number of oocyte retrieval (n = 15 vs n = 15, p = 0.484), oocyte maturation rate (78.8% vs 77.8%, p = 0.275), fertilization rate (73.0% vs 72.0%, p = 0.412), viable embryo rate per oocyte retrieval (40% vs 40%, p = 0.890), and good quality blastocyst rate (72.0% vs 69.6%, p = 0.092). However, the good quality day-3 embryo rate was significantly lower with PPOS (37.2% vs 49.1%, p Limitations, reasons for caution This was a retrospective cohort study conducted in a single center. The participants in this study were limited to Japanese ethnicity. The results need to be validated across different centers and other ethnicities. Wider implications of the findings This is the first report assessing the reproductive outcomes on PPOS using CMA, widely used in Japan. The PPOS with CMA significantly suppressed the premature LH surge rate compared to GnRH-ant protocol, without decrease in oocyte maturation rate. Trial registration number N/A

Study question Is it possible to identify the optimal puncture position by image analysis where oocyte degeneration is reduced in ICSI procedure? Summary answer Visualizing the likelihood of unintentional membrane rupture (UMR) using image analysis can reduce oocyte degeneration and thereby generate more embryos available for treatment. What is known already It is known that the oocyte degeneration after both conventional-ICSI and Piezo-ICSI are often observed when UMR occurs during the puncturing process and the likelihood of UMR may depends on the location of the puncture site on the oolemma. Identifying the appropriate puncturing position may decrease the likelihood of membrane rupture and thus degeneration, however, there are no studies identifying the optimal puncture position during ICSI. Study design, size, duration We have developed the ICSI Position Detector (IPD), which can identify an area where rupture is likely to occur and visualize it on a video monitor. This study included 1,110 mature oocytes retrieved from 190 consenting patients. Matured oocytes were inseminated either by Conventional-ICSI (n = 437, average maternal age: 39.1±4.6 y.o.) or Piezo-ICSI (n = 673, average maternal age: 38.6±4.5 y.o.). ICSI was performed blindly, moving images were recorded and analyzed retrospectively during ICSI using IPD. Participants/materials, setting, methods Inseminated oocytes were subsequently divided into two groups according to IPD results, oocytes on which ICSI was performed at the position with a low chance of UMR (appropriate group), and with a high chance of UMR (non-appropriate group) by IPD. The rates of UMR, degeneration, fertilization (2PN), blastocyst formation, and good-quality blastocyst (Grade 3BB and above on day 5 by the Gardner scoring) were compared between the two groups of both conventional-ICSI and Piezo-ICSI. Main results and the role of chance The areas in which UMR is less likely to occur and more likely to occur are heterogeneously distributed. When ICSI was performed blindly, about half was from the non-appropriate position. In appropriate group of Piezo-ICSI, rates of UMR (4.3% vs. 17.4%, P < 0.001) and degeneration (1.0% vs. 5.7%, P < 0.001) were significantly lower than those of non-appropriate group, whereas rates of fertilization (88.0% vs. 78.4%, P < 0.01) and blastocyst formation (57.8% vs. 45.9%, P < 0.01) were significantly higher than those of non-appropriate group, respectively. The rate of good-quality blastocyst (28.8% vs. 24.9%) was in favor of appropriate group, but not significantly different. In appropriate group of Conventional-ICSI, rates of UMR (6.7% vs. 20.6%, P < 0.001) and degeneration (1.5% vs. 6.6%, P < 0.01) were significantly lower than those of non-appropriate group, whereas rate of fertilization (88.7% vs. 69.5, P < 0.001) was significantly higher than those of non-appropriate group, respectively. The rates of blastocyst formation (37.5% vs. 35.3%), good-quality blastocyst (21.3% vs. 18.7%) were all in favor of appropriate group, but not significantly different. Limitations, reasons for caution This is a single private fertility clinic study. Its reproducibility should be assessed in different laboratory conditions and the hands of different operators. Moreover, specific studies should be addressed on the effect of the other putative confounders under investigation (e.g. kind of ovulation trigger, patient demographics, culture environment, etc.). Wider implications of the findings This study demonstrated that the IPD is useful to identify the optimal puncture location site to prevent UMR on ICSI procedure, resulting in reducing UMR and degeneration of the oocytes and increasing culture results, thereby, generating more embryos available for transfer or cryopreservation. Trial registration number not applicable

Study question What is the frequency of azoospermia factor (AZF) microdeletions and sperm retrieval rate (SRR) by micro TESE in patients with these deletions? Summary answer AZFc is most frequent of Y chromosome microdeletions and a predictor of micro TESE outcome in Japanese azoospermic men. What is known already After Klinefelter syndrome, Y chromosome microdeletions are the second most frequent genetic cause of male infertility, with a prevalence of 2%-10% in non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) and three spermatogenesis loci in the Y chromosome long arm (Yq11) have been classified as AZFa, AZFb, and AZFc. The classical correlation of histopathology phenotypes with these three microdeletions comprises of complete absence of germ cells (Sertoli cell-only syndrome) in patients with AZFa microdeletions, maturation arrest of meiosis in patients with AZFb microdeletions, and hypospermatogenesis in patients with AZFc microdeletions, however, individual variation in the extent of deletions has led to various spermatogenic phenotypes. Study design, size, duration We performed a retrospective study based on two reproduction centers in Japan and evaluated 1373 azoospermic patients in our clinics between September 2013 and December 2021. We investigated the frequency of AZF microdeletions and SRR by micro TESE in patients with these microdeletions and therefore aimed to evaluate the correlation between AZF microdeletions and micro TESE results. Participants/materials, setting, methods A total of 1373 azoospermic were enrolled. After the diagnosis of azoospermia, karyotype analysis and detection of Y chromosome microdeletions were performed on peripheral blood lymphocytes of these patients. Y chromosome microdeletions in AZFa, AZFb, and AZFc regions were detected using Promega Y Chromosome AZF Analysis System version 2.0 (Promega Co.). Twenty sequence-tagged sites within the AZF region of Yq11 and the sex-determining region Y gene were targeted for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. Main results and the role of chance One hundred and fifty-two AZF microdeletions (11.1%) were detected in the azoospermic patients. The most common deleted region was AZFc (60 cases, 4.4%). Among the patients, 17 (1.2%), 1 (0.1%), 42 (3.1%), 13 (1.0%), and 6 (0.5%) had AZFa, AZFa+b, AZFb+c, AZFb, and AZFa+b+c microdeletions, respectively. When the cases were grouped according to causes of infertility that could be detected, no Y chromosome microdeletions were detected in some groups (cases with Klinefelter Syndrome, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, congenital absence of vas deferens, and 47, XYY karyotype). Fifty-three azoospermic men with AZFc microdeletions underwent micro TESE, and spermatozoa were detected in 88.7% (47/53) of these men. In contrast, we detected spermatozoa in only 20.4% (109/534) of the azoospermic men without AZF microdeletions. The SRR was much higher in patients with AZFc microdeletions than that of patients without AZF deletions. Although three azoospermic men with AZFb+c microdeletions had also undergone micro TESE following patient request, we did not retrieve spermatozoa. Limitations, reasons for caution We excluded post chemotherapy NOA showing 46, XX and AZFa+b+c deletions post bone marrow transplantation from female donor. Additionally, we did not detect AZFc partial deletion including gr/gr deletion. The cohort size of this study is not small, however, our screened population of infertile men may be biased. Wider implications of the findings NOA patients with AZFc microdeletions had a high percentage of successful sperm retrieval by micro TESE. Our study emphasizes that diagnosis of Y chromosome microdeletions is critical for preconception genetic counseling and provides clinically valuable prognostic information to couples considering surgical sperm retrieval. Trial registration number None

We assessed whether race moderates the association between flourishing and all-cause mortality. We used panel data from the Midlife in the United States Study (MIDUS) (1995–2016; n = 2,851). Approximately 19% of White respondents and 23% of Black respondents in the baseline sample died over the course of the 21-year study period (n = 564). Cox proportional hazard models showed that Blacks had a higher mortality rate relative to Whites and higher levels of flourishing were associated with a lower mortality rate. Furthermore, a significant interaction between flourishing and race in predicting death was observed. Blacks with higher levels of flourishing had a mortality rate that was not significantly different from that of Whites. However, Blacks, but not Whites, with low flourishing scores had a higher mortality rate. As such, health-promotion efforts focused on enhancing flourishing among Black populations may reduce the Black–White gap in mortalityrate.

The void ellipticity distribution today can be well explained by the tidal field. Going a step further from the overall distribution, we investigate individuality on the tidal response of void shape in non-linear dynamical evolution. We perform an N-body simulation and trace individual voids using particle ID. The voids are defined based on Voronoi tessellation and watershed algorithm, using public code VIDE. A positive correlation is found between the time variation of void ellipticity and tidal field around a void if the void maintains its constituent particles. Such voids tend to have smaller mass densities. Conversely, not a few voids significantly deform by particle exchange, rather than the tidal field. Those voids may prevent us from correctly proving a quadrupole field of gravity out of a void shape., Comment: 10 pages, 12 figures

To test the association between racial discrimination and cardiovascular-related conditions and whether PTSD mediates this relationship in a nationally representative sample of non-Hispanic Blacks. We used data from the 2013 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions to conduct logistic regression analyses to examine the association between racial discrimination, PTSD, and cardiovascular-related conditions. We also performed mediation analyses to assess whether the association between racial discrimination and cardiovascular conditions was partly explained by PTSD. Racial discrimination was positively associated with both PTSD and cardiovascular-related conditions. Additionally, PTSD was positively associated with cardiovascular conditions. Results from the fully adjusted mediation models suggest that PTSD significantly mediated the association between racial discrimination and cardiovascular conditions. Our results demonstrate an association between racial discrimination and cardiovascular-related conditions that is significantly mediated by PTSD. To improve cardiovascular functioning among non-Hispanic Blacks, health care professionals in conjunction with Black communities must adopt culturally competent screening for and treatment for PTSD. To address racial differences in cardiovascular conditions, public health efforts must address institutional policies that negatively alter health opportunities among the Black population.

Homeless women in Chile live in high-risk situations; however, little research exists about how they face their homelessness. This article helps address this information gap through the identification of factors associated with the level of capabilities that homeless women face in their daily lives. Data were obtained from the Chilean government (December 2017) and included a final analytic sample of 1580 homeless women. Findings indicated that capability level was strongly associated with the individual characteristics of women linked to their life trajectories.

Objectives This study investigates whether and how racial discrimination is associated with ethnic-racial socialization in the family and how distinct aspects of ethnic-racial socialization influence children's ethnic and American identity among Filipino American and Korean American families. Method The data are obtained from the Midwest Longitudinal Study of Asian American Families Project (N = 1,580; 379 Filipino American youths and 377 parents, and 410 Korean American youths and 414 parents; Mage of youths = 15.01). Using the bootstrapping and maximum likelihood with missing values approaches, we conducted path analyses to test the hypothesized associations concurrently and longitudinally for each ethnic group. Results Youth-reported racial discrimination was directly associated with weaker American identity, both concurrently and longitudinally. In concurrent models, racial discrimination experienced by both youth and parents was positively associated with youth-reported preparation for bias, which in turn was linked with stronger ethnic identity among Filipinos, whereas no indirect pathways reached statistical significance among Koreans. In longitudinal models, parent-reported discrimination was linked with higher levels of promotion of mistrust among both groups, which predicted weaker ethnic identity among Filipino youth but stronger American identity among Korean youth. Conclusions The present study highlights how exposure to racial discrimination may have a lasting influence in cultural identity development among Asian Americans and possibly through ethnic-racial socialization in the family, which might have been shaped by such experiences. Our results also underscore the importance of considering the experiences of both children and parents in studies of discrimination and ethnic-racial socialization. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).

This paper proposes the use of concrete with a high water/cement ratio of 0.65, 455 kg/m3 of mixed fly ash and low-bond high-strength (LBHS) rebar to develop resilient circular columns confined by bolted steel tubes. The test results indicated that the proposed bolted steel tube-confined fly ash concrete columns with LBHS rebar had great self-centering (SC) capacity and stable lateral load resistance until reaching a large drift value. Low bonds resulted in delayed yielding of the longitudinal rebar; therefore, the column had better deformability and durable SC capacity compared with a column with normal high-bond steel rebar. Furthermore, the anchorage tie plate at the contraflexure section of double curvature columns was necessary to prevent the steel rebar from slipping. Shortening the anchorage length of the longitudinal rebar within the beam-column joint had little influence on the seismic behavior of the test column. Bolted steel tubes could provide better safety for testing columns compared with that of welded steel tubes, especially at the large deformation stage. The proposed OpenSees model can evaluate the seismic behavior of the test columns with good agreement. The lateral behavior of the test columns can be reasonably predicted by using an equivalent stress block and calculation method considering steel bond slip. The literature indicated that the combination of LBHS rebar and fly ash concrete as well as bolted steel tubes is a good alternative for the development of SC RC columns.

The primordial He abundance $Y_\mathrm{P}$ is a powerful probe of cosmology. Currently, $Y_\mathrm{P}$ is best determined by observations of metal-poor galaxies, while there are only a few known local extremely metal-poor ($, Comment: 22 pages, 9 figures, accepted for publication in ApJ

West syndrome is a developmental and epileptic encephalopathy characterized by epileptic spasms, neurodevelopmental regression, and a specific EEG pattern called hypsarrhythmia. Our aim was to investigate the brain activities related to hypsarrhythmia at onset and focal epileptiform discharges in the remote period in children with West syndrome using simultaneous electroencephalography and fMRI recordings.Fourteen children with West syndrome underwent simultaneous electroencephalography and fMRI at the onset of West syndrome. Statistically significant blood oxygen level-dependent responses related to hypsarrhythmia were analyzed using an event-related design of 4 hemodynamic response functions with peaks at 3, 5, 7, and 9 seconds after the onset of each event. Six of 14 children had focal epileptiform discharges after treatment and underwent simultaneous electroencephalography and fMRI from 12 to 25 months of age.At onset, positive blood oxygen level-dependent responses were seen in the brainstem (14/14 patients), thalami (13/14), basal ganglia (13/14), and hippocampi (13/14), in addition to multiple cerebral cortices. Group analysis using hemodynamic response functions with peaks at 3, 5, and 7 seconds showed positive blood oxygen level-dependent responses in the brainstem, thalamus, and hippocampus, while positive blood oxygen level-dependent responses in multiple cerebral cortices were seen using hemodynamic response functions with peaks at 5 and 7 seconds. In the remote period, 3 of 6 children had focal epileptiform discharge-related positive blood oxygen level-dependent responses in the thalamus, hippocampus, and brainstem.Positive blood oxygen level-dependent responses with hypsarrhythmia appeared in the brainstem, thalamus, and hippocampus on earlier hemodynamic response functions than the cerebral cortices, suggesting the propagation of epileptogenic activities from the deep brain structures to the neocortices. Activation of the hippocampus, thalamus, and brainstem was still seen in half of the patients with focal epileptiform discharges after adrenocorticotropic hormone therapy.

Standardized instruments are often used to assess the need for mental health services in a community. Such instruments are usually standardized on Caucasian samples and are generally assumed to be appropriate for different ethnocultural minorities. However, this assumption may be in error because cultural groups vary in their expression, manifestation, and reporting of symptoms. This article analyzes the responses to a standardized instrument, the Symptom Checklist (SCL), for four ethnic groups in Hawai'i: Caucasians, Filipinos, Japanese, and Native Hawaiians. Factor analysis using a procrustes rotation was used to force the data to fit into the five hypothesized factors of the SCL (somatization, obsessive-compulsive, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, and anxiety). It showed that the scale item loadings generally did not correspond to the hypothesized factors. Among the ethnic groups, Caucasians appeared to have the best fit between the empirical and hypothesized factors whereas Native Hawaiians had the worst fit. Our results reinforce the importance of assessing established psychiatric symptom scales prior to their use on different ethnocultural minorities.