Density And Growth Ring Characteristics Of Pinus Taeda L. Following Thinning

Sixteen experimental plots of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) grown in plantations in Tennessee, USA, were thinned to basal areas of 13.8 m2/ha (heavy), 23.0 m2/ha (moderate), or 32.2 m2/ha (light) in 1963 at age 23. In 1980 12-mm increment cores were removed at breast height, and sections encompassing 8 years before and after thinning were examined for changes in average wood density, radial growth, earlywood and latewood density, and percent latewood. As expected wood density increased with tree age but was not significantly affected by thinning, even though individual tree growth was considerably improved. Although radial growth usually decreases with age, it actually increased in the heavily thinned plots compared to the less severely thinned or unthinned (control) plots. Trees in the moderately and heavily thinned plots produced wood with lower earlywood density and higher latewood density while percent latewood remained unchanged.The timber strength and seasoning characteristics related to wood density should not be affected by thinning. However, the shift within growth rings of earlywood and latewood density distributions may adversely affect pulping qualities of wood

Reactions of exotic nuclei with the quark-meson coupling model

The nucleon-nucleon interaction is an important requirement for investigations of nuclear structure and reactions, as well as for astrophysical models such as r-process nucleosynthesis and neutron stars. The traditional approach to low-energy nuclear physics is to treat nucleons as immutable objects interacting via phenomenological forces. The use of phenomenological interactions, rather than one derived from a microscopic theory, raises questions as to the reliability of predictions for exotic regions of the nuclear chart. The quark-meson coupling (QMC) model uses a relativistic mean-field approach to provide a microscopically derived nucleon-nucleon interaction, which takes into account the quark structure of the nucleon. The Skyrme energy density functional is a popular phenomenological tool in studies of nuclear structure and reactions. In this work, the QMC density functional was used to produce a set of Skyrme parameterisations, in the hopes that they will give more reliable predictions for exotic nuclei. In conjunction with Hartree-Fock-Bogoliubov (HFB) calculations, the Skyrme-QMC (SQMC) parameterisations have been used to model the ground-state properties of individual nuclei and nucleus-nucleus potentials for Ca + Sn reactions. The SQMC parameterisation performs with an accuracy comparable to modern phenomenological functionals. From this, one can investigate the importance of the isovector terms of the nucleon-nucleon interaction, which are particularly significant for exotic, neutron-rich regions of the nuclear chart. One of the notable successes of the QMC model is its derivation of nuclear spin-orbit coupling. The isovector dependence of the spin-orbit equation of state is remarkably similar to that of the modern UNEDF1 phenomenological density functional. HFB calculations along the Sn isotopic chain reveal that the isovector properties of the spin-orbit term impact binding energies to a level that will be significant for astrophysical r-process modelling.This research is supported by an Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship and ARC Grants FT120100760 and DP160101254

Comparison Between Some Simple Computer-Calculated and Experimental Ion Exchange Elutions

A method for calculating the elution curves for certain ion exchange columns is given. Equilibrium is assumed to be achieved in theoretical plates of finite height. Predicted and experimental elutions agree where it is possible to circumvent non-equilibrium factors by use of the plate concept. Methods are given for elutions both where there is and where there is not co-ion reaction with counter-ion. The mathematical solutions are lengthy because approximations are avoided, necessitating the use of a high-speed computer. Comparisons with experimental results, using Amberlite CG-120 columns, are given for band elution of Na+ by HNO3 elution by NaNO3 of the resin entirely in the acid form, and elutions by HNO3 and acetic acid of the resin entirely in the Na form. In all but the acetic acid elution the elution curve was correctly predicted by assuming 13-18 plates per centimeter; with acetic acid the curve shape was correctly predicted and shown to be almost insensitive to the number of plates assumed

Lady Gaga as (dis)simulacrum of monstrosity

Lady Gaga’s celebrity DNA revolves around the notion of monstrosity, an extensively researched concept in postmodern cultural studies. The analysis that is offered in this paper is largely informed by Deleuze and Guattari’s notion of monstrosity, as well as by their approach to the study of sign-systems that was deployed in A Thousand Plateaus. By drawing on biographical and archival visual data, with a focus on the relatively underexplored live show, an elucidation is afforded of what is really monstrous about Lady Gaga. The main argument put forward is that monstrosity as sign seeks to appropriate the horizon of unlimited semiosis as radical alterity and openness to signifying possibilities. In this context it is held that Gaga effectively delimits her unique semioscape; however, any claims to monstrosity are undercut by the inherent limits of a representationalist approach in sufficiently engulfing this concept. Gaga is monstrous for her community insofar as she demands of her fans to project their semiosic horizon onto her as a simulacrum of infinite semiosis. However, this simulacrum may only be evinced in a feigned manner as a (dis)simulacrum. The analysis of imagery from seminal live shows during 2011–2012 shows that Gaga’s presumed monstrosity is more akin to hyperdifferentiation as simultaneous employment of heterogeneous and potentially dissonant inter pares cultural representations. The article concludes with a problematisation of audience effects in the light of Gaga’s adoption of a schematic and post-representationalist strategy in the event of her strategy’s emulation by competitive artists

A holistic approach to well-being and neglected tropical diseases: evaluating the impact of community-led support groups in Nigeria using community-based participatory research

Background: Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affect around 1 billion people, many living in the poorest parts of the world. NTDs often lead to serious long-term physical impairments. Stigma, disability, poverty and social isolation interact, resulting in poor quality of life and significant psychosocial impacts. The holistic health and psychosocial needs of persons affected by NTDs are often overlooked in integrated NTD programme design and research. Furthermore, the viewpoints of persons affected are often absent and spaces for empowerment and advocacy are limited. Methods: Using a community-based participatory research design, our study partnered with persons affected and caregivers as co-researchers to address this gap. Through the process, we co-designed and implemented community-based support groups in Kaduna and Kwara, Nigeria, where NTDs are endemic. This paper utilises photovoice with support group facilitators (persons affected); participant observation of group meetings; rapid micronarratives with support group members; and key informant interviews with programme implementers at the state and local government area levels to explore the impact of the support groups from the perspective of people affected by NTDs and other health system actors. Results: Perceived impacts of the support groups included a sense of ownership and empowerment, stigma reduction, improved self-esteem, improved health knowledge and health outcomes and capacity strengthening through vocational training. Conclusions: Support groups, as community spaces of healing, offer a low-cost holistic intervention for chronic disease and disability

Exploring the well-being of people affected by skin NTDs in Kaduna and Kwara States, Nigeria: a photovoice and scoping review study

People affected by skin neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) grapple with both physical and emotional reactions that compromise their health and well-being. Multiple studies with people affected by skin NTDs have shown high levels of poor mental well-being using self-report questionnaires or psychological measures. However, few have provided in-depth documentation of lived experiences from the perspective of affected persons and there is limited consideration of how their viewpoints can be used to shape intervention design. This article draws together findings from an international scoping review and a photovoice study conducted in Kaduna and Kwara States, Nigeria. Our combined analysis, which situates the lived realities of people affected by skin NTDs within the existing evidence base, was used to inform the design of a subsequent well-being intervention. Using Meyer's (2003) minority stress model, we have illustrated that there is a synergistic relationship between mental health, chronic morbidity and disability from skin NTDs. This relationship results from a complex interplay of factors including pain and discomfort and a reduced ability to function and participate in areas such as livelihoods, food provision and education. Stigma and discrimination act as a catalyst for these functional limitations and participation restrictions, resulting in feelings of being useless, broken, shame and sadness. The critical role of participatory methods in our study emphasises how people affected by skin NTDs have multiple coping mechanisms that can be galvanised in the provision of holistic NTD care. We recommend that NTD programmes should strengthen relationships with affected persons to identify pre-existing support platforms that can be used to support the emotional and physical health and well-being of affected persons. Working with affected persons and community actors to strengthen necessary intersectoral approaches is a first step in designing and delivering such holistic care

Evaluation of the feasibility, diagnostic yield, and clinical utility of rapid genome sequencing in infantile epilepsy (Gene-STEPS): an international, multicentre, pilot cohort study

BACKGROUND: Most neonatal and infantile-onset epilepsies have presumed genetic aetiologies, and early genetic diagnoses have the potential to inform clinical management and improve outcomes. We therefore aimed to determine the feasibility, diagnostic yield, and clinical utility of rapid genome sequencing in this population. METHODS: We conducted an international, multicentre, cohort study (Gene-STEPS), which is a pilot study of the International Precision Child Health Partnership (IPCHiP). IPCHiP is a consortium of four paediatric centres with tertiary-level subspecialty services in Australia, Canada, the UK, and the USA. We recruited infants with new-onset epilepsy or complex febrile seizures from IPCHiP centres, who were younger than 12 months at seizure onset. We excluded infants with simple febrile seizures, acute provoked seizures, known acquired cause, or known genetic cause. Blood samples were collected from probands and available biological parents. Clinical data were collected from medical records, treating clinicians, and parents. Trio genome sequencing was done when both parents were available, and duo or singleton genome sequencing was done when one or neither parent was available. Site-specific protocols were used for DNA extraction and library preparation. Rapid genome sequencing and analysis was done at clinically accredited laboratories, and results were returned to families. We analysed summary statistics for cohort demographic and clinical characteristics and the timing, diagnostic yield, and clinical impact of rapid genome sequencing. FINDINGS: Between Sept 1, 2021, and Aug 31, 2022, we enrolled 100 infants with new-onset epilepsy, of whom 41 (41%) were girls and 59 (59%) were boys. Median age of seizure onset was 128 days (IQR 46-192). For 43 (43% [binomial distribution 95% CI 33-53]) of 100 infants, we identified genetic diagnoses, with a median time from seizure onset to rapid genome sequencing result of 37 days (IQR 25-59). Genetic diagnosis was associated with neonatal seizure onset versus infantile seizure onset (14 [74%] of 19 vs 29 [36%] of 81; p=0·0027), referral setting (12 [71%] of 17 for intensive care, 19 [44%] of 43 non-intensive care inpatient, and 12 [28%] of 40 outpatient; p=0·0178), and epilepsy syndrome (13 [87%] of 15 for self-limited epilepsies, 18 [35%] of 51 for developmental and epileptic encephalopathies, 12 [35%] of 34 for other syndromes; p=0·001). Rapid genome sequencing revealed genetic heterogeneity, with 34 unique genes or genomic regions implicated. Genetic diagnoses had immediate clinical utility, informing treatment (24 [56%] of 43), additional evaluation (28 [65%]), prognosis (37 [86%]), and recurrence risk counselling (all cases). INTERPRETATION: Our findings support the feasibility of implementation of rapid genome sequencing in the clinical care of infants with new-onset epilepsy. Longitudinal follow-up is needed to further assess the role of rapid genetic diagnosis in improving clinical, quality-of-life, and economic outcomes. FUNDING: American Academy of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital Children's Rare Disease Cohorts Initiative, Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Epilepsy Canada, Feiga Bresver Academic Foundation, Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, Medical Research Council, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institute for Health and Care Research Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, One8 Foundation, Ontario Brain Institute, Robinson Family Initiative for Transformational Research, The Royal Children's Hospital Foundation, University of Toronto McLaughlin Centre

Evidence for 28 genetic disorders discovered by combining healthcare and research data

De novo mutations in protein-coding genes are a well-established cause of developmental disorders. However, genes known to be associated with developmental disorders account for only a minority of the observed excess of such de novo mutations. Here, to identify previously undescribed genes associated with developmental disorders, we integrate healthcare and research exome-sequence data from 31,058 parent–offspring trios of individuals with developmental disorders, and develop a simulation-based statistical test to identify gene-specific enrichment of de novo mutations. We identified 285 genes that were significantly associated with developmental disorders, including 28 that had not previously been robustly associated with developmental disorders. Although we detected more genes associated with developmental disorders, much of the excess of de novo mutations in protein-coding genes remains unaccounted for. Modelling suggests that more than 1,000 genes associated with developmental disorders have not yet been described, many of which are likely to be less penetrant than the currently known genes. Research access to clinical diagnostic datasets will be critical for completing the map of genes associated with developmental disorders