A Comparison of the Ovulation Method With the CUE Ovulation Predictor in Determining the Fertile Period

The purpose of this study was to compare the CUE Ovulation Predictor with the ovulation method in determining the fertile period. Eleven regularly ovulating women measured their salivary and vaginal electrical resistance (ER) with the CUE, observed their cervical-vaginal mucus, and measured their urine for a luteinizing hormone (LH) surge on a daily basis. Data from 21 menstrual cycles showed no statistical difference (T= 0.33, p= 0.63) between the CUE fertile period, which ranged from 5 to 10 days (mean = 6.7 days, SD = 1.6), and the fertile period of the ovulation method, which ranged from 4 to 9 days (mean = 6.5 days, SD = 2.0). The CUE has potential as an adjunctive device in the learning and use of natural family planning methods

Generalizing the relativistic quantization condition to include all three-pion isospin channels

We present a generalization of the relativistic, finite-volume, three-particle quantization condition for non-identical pions in isosymmetric QCD. The resulting formalism allows one to use discrete finite-volume energies, determined using lattice QCD, to constrain scattering amplitudes for all possible values of two- and three-pion isospin. As for the case of identical pions considered previously, the result splits into two steps: The first defines a non-perturbative function with roots equal to the allowed energies, $E_n(L)$, in a given cubic volume with side-length $L$. This function depends on an intermediate three-body quantity, denoted $\mathcal{K}_{\mathrm{df},3}$, which can thus be constrained from lattice QCD input. The second step is a set of integral equations relating $\mathcal{K}_{\mathrm{df},3}$ to the physical scattering amplitude, $\mathcal M_3$. Both of the key relations, $E_n(L) \leftrightarrow \mathcal{K}_{\mathrm{df},3}$ and $\mathcal{K}_{\mathrm{df},3}\leftrightarrow \mathcal M_3$, are shown to be block-diagonal in the basis of definite three-pion isospin, $I_{\pi \pi \pi}$, so that one in fact recovers four independent relations, corresponding to $I_{\pi \pi \pi}=0,1,2,3$. We also provide the generalized threshold expansion of $\mathcal{K}_{\mathrm{df},3}$ for all channels, as well as parameterizations for all three-pion resonances present for $I_{\pi\pi\pi}=0$ and $I_{\pi\pi\pi}=1$. As an example of the utility of the generalized formalism, we present a toy implementation of the quantization condition for $I_{\pi\pi\pi}=0$, focusing on the quantum numbers of the $\omega$ and $h_1$ resonances.Comment: 46 pages, 4 figures. Updated to match erratum published in JHEP. Main conclusions and results unchange

Axiomatization and Models of Scientific Theories

In this paper we discuss two approaches to the axiomatization of scien- tific theories in the context of the so called semantic approach, according to which (roughly) a theory can be seen as a class of models. The two approaches are associated respectively to Suppes’ and to da Costa and Chuaqui’s works. We argue that theories can be developed both in a way more akin to the usual mathematical practice (Suppes), in an informal set theoretical environment, writing the set theoretical predicate in the language of set theory itself or, more rigorously (da Costa and Chuaqui), by employing formal languages that help us in writing the postulates to define a class of structures. Both approaches are called internal, for we work within a mathematical framework, here taken to be first-order ZFC. We contrast these approaches with an external one, here discussed briefly. We argue that each one has its strong and weak points, whose discussion is relevant for the philosophical foundations of science

Nomenclature of the hydrotalcite supergroup: Natural layered double hydroxides

Layered double hydroxide (LDH) compounds are characterized by structures in which layers with a brucite-like structure carry a net positive charge, usually due to the partial substitution of trivalent octahedrally coordinated cations for divalent cations, giving a general layer formula [( M 2+ 1-x M 3+ x )(OH)2] x +. This positive charge is balanced by anions which are intercalated between the layers. Intercalated molecular water typically provides hydrogen bonding between the brucite layers. In addition to synthetic compounds, some of which have significant industrial applications, more than 40 mineral species conform to this description. Hydrotalcite, Mg6Al2(OH) 16[CO3]•4H2O, as the longest-known example, is the archetype of this supergroup of minerals. We review the history, chemistry, crystal structure, polytypic variation and status of all hydrotalcite-supergroup species reported to date. The dominant divalent cations, M 2+, that have been reported in hydrotalcite supergroup minerals are Mg, Ca, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu and Zn; the dominant trivalent cations, M 3+, are Al, Mn, Fe, Co and Ni. The most common intercalated anions are (CO3)2-, (SO4)2- and Cl -; and OH-, S2- and [Sb(OH)6] - have also been reported. Some species contain intercalated cationic or neutral complexes such as [Na(H2O)6]+ or [MgSO4]0. We define eight groups within the supergroup on the basis of a combination of criteria. These are (1) the hydrotalcite group, with M 2+:M 3+ = 3:1 (layer spacing ∼7.8 Å); (2) the quintinite group, with M 2+:M 3+ = 2:1 (layer spacing ∼7.8 Å); (3) the fougèrite group, with M 2+ = Fe2+, M 3+ = Fe3+ in a range of ratios, and with O2- replacing OH- in the brucite module to maintain charge balance (layer spacing ∼7.8 Å); (4) the woodwardite group, with variable M 2+:M 3+ and interlayer [SO4] 2-, leading to an expanded layer spacing of ∼8.9 Å; (5) the cualstibite group, with interlayer [Sb(OH)6]- and a layer spacing of ∼9.7 Å; (6) the glaucocerinite group, with interlayer [SO4]2- as in the woodwardite group, and with additional interlayer H2O molecules that further expand the layer spacing to ∼11 Å; (7) the wermlandite group, with a layer spacing of ∼11 Å, in which cationic complexes occur with anions between the brucite-like layers; and (8) the hydrocalumite group, with M 2+ = Ca2+ and M 3+ = Al, which contains brucite-like layers in which the Ca:Al ratio is 2:1 and the large cation, Ca2+, is coordinated to a seventh ligand of 'interlayer' water. The principal mineral status changes are as follows. (1) The names manasseite, sjögrenite and barbertonite are discredited; these minerals are the 2H polytypes of hydrotalcite, pyroaurite and stichtite, respectively. Cyanophyllite is discredited as it is the 1M polytype of cualstibite. (2) The mineral formerly described as fougèrite has been found to be an intimate intergrowth of two phases with distinct Fe 2+:Fe3+ ratios. The phase with Fe2+:Fe 3+ = 2:1 retains the name fougèrite; that with Fe 2+:Fe3+ = 1:2 is defined as the new species trébeurdenite. (3) The new minerals omsite (IMA2012-025), Ni 2Fe3+(OH)6[Sb(OH)6], and mössbauerite (IMA2012-049), Fe3+ 6O 4(OH)8[CO3]•3H2O, which are both in the hydrotalcite supergroup are included in the discussion. (4) Jamborite, carrboydite, zincaluminite, motukoreaite, natroglaucocerinite, brugnatellite and muskoxite are identified as questionable species which need further investigation in order to verify their structure and composition. (5) The ranges of compositions currently ascribed to motukoreaite and muskoxite may each represent more than one species. The same applies to the approved species hydrowoodwardite and hydrocalumite. (6) Several unnamed minerals have been reported which are likely to represent additional species within the supergroup. This report has been approved by the Commission on New Minerals, Nomenclature and Classification (CNMNC) of the International Mineralogical Association, voting proposal 12-B. We also propose a compact notation for identifying synthetic LDH phases, for use by chemists as a preferred alternative to the current widespread misuse of mineral names. © 2012 Mineralogical Society.Fil: Mills, S.J.. Museum Victoria; AustraliaFil: Christy, A.G.. Australian National University. Centre for Advanced Microscopy; AustraliaFil: Génin, J. M. R.. CNRS-Université de Lorraine; FranciaFil: Kameda, T.. Tohoku University. Graduate School of Environmental Studies; JapónFil: Colombo, Fernando. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Tierra. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Tierra; Argentin

Instabilities and propagation of neutrino magnetohydrodynamic waves in arbitrary direction

In a previous work [16], a new model was introduced, taking into account the role of the Fermi weak force due to neutrinos coupled to magnetohydrodynamic plasmas. The resulting neutrino-magnetohydrodynamics was investigated in a particular geometry associated with the magnetosonic wave, where the ambient magnetic field and the wavevector are perpendicular. The corresponding fast, short wavelength neutrino beam instability was then obtained in the context of supernova parameters. The present communication generalizes these results, allowing for arbitrary direction of wave propagation, including fast and slow magnetohydrodynamic waves and the intermediate cases of oblique angles. The numerical estimates of the neutrino-plasma instabilities are derived in extreme astrophysical environments where dense neutrino beams exist

Pathway Weathering in Granitoid Rocks from Central Region of Angola: Geochemical and Mineralogical Data

The Central Region of Angola is characterized by the abundance of granitoid rocks, whose weathering “in situ” originated the so-called residual soils. The textural, geochemical and mineralogical properties of these soils depend not only on the chemical composition of parent rock, but mainly on the local climatic and geomorphological characteristics. In the study area, sampling sites were selected, which extend from the region of Kwanza- Norte (Kassenda, Dondo) through Kwanza-Sul (Cangulo, Quibala and Waco Kungo) until the plateau of Huambo, where samples of fresh rock, weathered rock and its residual soil were collected along each weathering profile. Chemical analytical data were determined using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis of the major and minor elements, whereas mineralogical data were determined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), on the samples of rock and on the respective residual soil. The results obtained and their comparative analysis between the sampling sites, as well as along each weathering profile is presented. This paper allows contributing to the knowledge of the geochemical weathering in tropical areas, as is the case of Angola

Hypoxic pre-conditioning increases the infiltration of endothelial cells into scaffolds for dermal regeneration pre-seeded with mesenchymal stem cells.

Many therapies using mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) rely on their ability to produce and release paracrine signals with chemotactic and pro-angiogenic activity. These characteristics, however, are mostly studied under standard in vitro culture conditions. In contrast, various novel cell-based therapies imply pre-seeding MSC into bio-artificial scaffolds. Here we describe human bone marrow-derived MSC seeded in Integra matrices, a common type of scaffold for dermal regeneration (SDR). We show and measured the distribution of MSC within the SDR, where cells clearly establish physical interactions with the scaffold, exhibiting constant metabolic activity for at least 15 days. In the SDR, MSC secrete VEGF and SDF-1α and induce transwell migration of CD34(+) hematopoietic/endothelial progenitor cells, which is inhibited in the presence of a CXCR4/SDF-1α antagonist. MSC in SDR respond to hypoxia by altering levels of angiogenic signals such as Angiogenin, Serpin-1, uPA, and IL-8. Finally, we show that MSC-containing SDR that have been pre-incubated in hypoxia show higher infiltration of endothelial cells after implantation into immune deficient mice. Our data show that MSC are fully functional ex vivo when implanted into SDR. In addition, our results strongly support the notion of hypoxic pre-conditioning MSC-containing SDR, in order to promote angiogenesis in the wounds

Progress report on the relativistic three-particle quantization condition

We describe recent work on the relativistic three-particle quantization condition, generalizing and applying the original formalism of Hansen and Sharpe, and of Brice\~no, Hansen and Sharpe. In particular, we sketch three recent developments: the generalization of the formalism to include K-matrix poles; the numerical implementation of the quantization condition in the isotropic approximation; and ongoing work extending the description of the three-particle divergence-free K matrix beyond the isotropic approximation.Comment: 7 pages, 1 figure, Proceedings of Lattice 201

Ab initio quantum Monte Carlo calculations of spin superexchange in cuprates: the benchmarking case of Ca2_2CuO3_3

In view of the continuous theoretical efforts aimed at an accurate microscopic description of the strongly correlated transition metal oxides and related materials, we show that with continuum quantum Monte Carlo (QMC) calculations it is possible to obtain the value of the spin superexchange coupling constant of a copper oxide in a quantitatively excellent agreement with experiment. The variational nature of the QMC total energy allows us to identify the best trial wave function out of the available pool of wave functions, which makes the approach essentially free from adjustable parameters and thus truly ab initio. The present results on magnetic interactions suggest that QMC is capable of accurately describing ground state properties of strongly correlated materials.Comment: Published in Physical Review