bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Measuring Technique for Sand Ripples Using Ultrasonic Transducer Array
Authors: Hachiya Hiroyuki , Ohtsuki Shigeo , Okujima Motoyoshi
Published: March 2014

The pitch and direction of sand ripples which are formed on the sea bottom are closely related to the direction and quantity of sand drift. A new measuring technique for the sand ripples is presented. In this measuring technique, a circular transducer array is located in the sand under the sea bottom, and an ultrasonic pulse which has a wide beam in the vertical plane is transmitted toward the sand ripples on the sea bottom surface. A transducer array was constructed and an experiment was performed in a water tank. Experimental results show that the pitch and direction of the sand ripples can be determined with satisfactory accuracy using this measuring thechnique.
Characteristics of Leaky Surface Wave Propagating on Li2B4O7 Substrate
Authors: Murota Masao , Shimizu Yasutaka
Published: March 2014

The propagation characteristics of leaky surface wave on Li2B4O7 substrate were theoretically calculated for all cuts and propagation directions by changing Euler's angle. The theoretical contour maps for phase velocity, electromechanical coupling constant (K2), temperature coefficient of delay (TCD), propagation loss, and power flow angle (PFA) are displayed. Cuts with good propagation characteristics were theoretically discovered using leaky surface wave.
Parametric Mixing Effects in Surface Acoustic Waves Caused by Surface Perturbation
Authors: Nakagawa Yasuhiko , Terunuma Noboru , Yamashita Katsumi
Published: March 2014

This paper presents a new phenomenon in the parametric mixing effects of a surface acoustic wave (SAW). When two SAWs were perturbed by a very small amount of liquid above the waveguide surface, generation of the SAW at the sum frequency was increased in amplitude about 30 to 40 dB compared with the case of no perturbation. We propose a qualitative model which explains this phenomenon.
A General Equivalent Circuit Model For Magnetostatic Wave Devices
Authors: Koike Takuro
Published: March 2014

A general equivalent circuit model for magnetostatic wave (MSW) devices proposed by the author is discussed. The model consists of purely magnetostatic lumped elements rather than the electrical ones discussed so far. In the proposed model, a magnetomotive force f, a magnetostatic current l, and a magnetostatic characteristic impedance z
0 are so defined that the power carried by the MSW through the cross-section of the sample is correctly described. The validity of the model is examined for the magnetostatic backward and forward volume waves by calculating z
0 and the radiation resistance.
Welding Characteristics of Ultrasonic Wire Bonding Using the Same or a Different Frequency Complex Vibration Welding Tips
Authors: Tsujino Jiromaru , Sakai Masayuki , Ando Hideki , Negishi Takashi , Murayama Yoshihiro , Furuya Hiroshi , Itoh Hirosada
Published: March 2014

Welding characteristics of complex vibration ultrasonic wire bonding are studied. The welding systems used have a complex transverse vibration welding tip which is driven by two longitudinal vibration systems. Welding tip vibration locus shape is controlled by regulating the vibration amplitudes and phase difference between two vibration systems. Welding specimens used are 0.1 mm diameter aluminum wire and 1.0 mm thick copper plate. These specimens are welded successfully with smaller vibration amplitude and shorter weld time than a conventional welding system. Weld strength is independent of specimen wire direction.
Position Control System Driven by Ultrasonic Motor
Authors: Kamano Takuya , Suzuki Takayuki , Kuzuhara Toshihiro
Published: March 2014

The responses of position control systems driven by an ultrasonic motor are described. One system utilizes a proportional controller and the other a pulse width modulation controller. The responses of both systems for various reference positions are measured and discussed.
Linearly Moving Ultrasonic Motor Using a Multi-Mode Vibrator
Authors: Takano Takehiro , Tomikawa Yoshiro
Published: March 2014

This paper deal with the construction and some of the characteristics of linearly moving ultrasonic motors using multi-mode vibrators; a thin rectangular plate vibrator of the 1st longitudinal and 4th bending modes, and a piezo-ceramics annular plate vibrator of the 1st radial and ((1, 1)) non-axisymmetric modes are utilized. Key points in the design of the multi-mode vibrators and experimental characteristics of the motor such as its efficiency are discussed.
Airborne Ultrasonic Speckle Velocimetry
Authors: Akiyama Iwaki , Miyazaki Fumio , Momokawa Hiroshi
Published: March 2014

An ultrasonic speckle velocimetry has been proposed for blood flow measurement in the fields of clinical medicine. This method is capable of measuring the velocity of a target which moves along a direction perpendicular to the ultrasonic beam. The Doppler method cannot measure this velocity. A feasibility study of use of this method in the air is reviewed.
Application of Nonlinear Ultrasonic Pulse Reflection Method –Measurement of Acoustic Parameters–
Authors: Ueno Shin-ichiro , Furuya Nobuaki , Fukukita Hiroshi , Yano Tsutomu
Published: March 2014

The method for measuring the distribution of the attenuation coefficient and the nonlinearity characteristic, using the nonlinear effect in superposed probe and pump pulse waves, is described. The relationship between these acoustic parameters, the measured crossing frequency (ωx) and the slope of the depth dependence of ω
x
is also described. The experimental result of using a pig liver as a lossy medium is reported.
Dynamic Pressure Measurement Using Two-Frequency Ultrasound
Authors: Tamura Tatsuhiro , Chihara Kunihiro , Shirae Kimisuke , Ishihara Ken , Nagakura Toshiaki , Tanouchi Jun , Kitabatake Akira
Published: March 2014

To perform non-invasive pressure measurement by ultrasound, we examined the acoustic characteristics of microcapsules which are dependent on the surrounding pressure. The linear amplitude change of frequency spectrum by pressure was used to develop a fast pressure measurement method. To determine the correspondence of the spectrum amplitude with pressure, we defined a twin frequency attenuation ratio (TAR) as a new pressure parameter measured by two-frequency ultrasound. Dynamic change of pressure was experimentally detected by TAR, whose sensitivity for ultrasonic pressure measurement was thus indicated.
Photoacoustic Depth Pro filing of Ion-Pairs in Films Using An Approximation of Inverse Laplace Transform
Authors: Harata Akira , Sawada Tsuguo
Published: March 2014

A simple approximation method for quantitative depth pro filing using photoacoustic spectroscopy has recently been proposed. This method adopts an approximation of the inversion of the Laplace transform in order to simplify the calculation of the depth-dependent optical absorption coefficient from PA frequency responses. The technique was successfully applied to the depth pro filing of ion-pair adsorbed polyvinylchloride films, in which the absorption coefficients vary continuously with depth. The results qualitatively corresponded to the microscopic cross sections of the films.
Broad-Band Photoacoustic Dispersive Measurements and Solid-Liquid Phase Transitions of Pure Metals
Authors: Kojima Seiji
Published: March 2014

The temperature dependence of the photoacoustic amplitude and phase have been measured in the neighborhood of a melting and a freezing point. The two quantities show the remarkable change in the immediate vicinity of a transition point. The modulation frequency dependence of the photoacoustic anomaly has been determined in the wide frequency range between 1 Hz and 200 kHz. It is found that the dispersion closely resembles a relaxational type.
Dynamics of Picosecond Laser-Generated Acoustic Waves in Solids
Authors: Kanemitsu Yoshihiko , Harada Yoshinao , Tanaka Yuichi , Nakano Noboru , Kuroda Hiroto , Yamanaka Kazushi
Published: March 2014

Generation and propagation characteristics of picosecond laser-generated acoustic waves in solids were studied using an optical detection technique and a ZnO piezoelectric transducer. The propagation of laser-generated acoustic waves was directional. At the early stage of propagation, the propagation velocity of the wavefront exceeded the sound velocity in solids. The generation and propagation behavior of acoustic waves are very sensitive to the interaction conditions between laser pulses and solid surfaces. The formation and expansion of laser-generated plasmas affect the generation dynamics of acoustic waves.
Imaging of a Diffused Region in a Si Tr-Chip by Electron-Acoustic Microscopy (EAM)
Authors: Takenoshita Hiroshi
Published: March 2014

We have carried out comparative in situ studies of various SEM and electron-acoustic microscopy (EAM) images of the same area of Si Tr-chips. By angle lapping, an area of a diffused region of the Si Tr-chip could be observed in situ by both microscopic forms; the polished area was identified by EPMA to consist of a single component material (Si) and hence was regarded to be an area free from thermal property difference. A diffused layer observed by EAM was analogous to an area of thermal properties difference. The contrast of the EAM image changed under bias voltage application.
Effect of Ultrasonic Vibrations on the Growth of InxGa1-xSb Mixed Crystals (II)
Authors: Tsuruta Takuya , Hayakawa Yasuhiro , Kumagawa Masashi
Published: March 2014

In In
x
Ga1-x
Sb mixed crystals grown by the ultrasonic-vibration-introduced Czochralski method, the facet growth was observed for the first time. The facets appeared under the influence of fairly larger output power of ultrasonic vibrations than the minimum power needed to grow single crystals of In
x
Ga1-x
Sb. Both concentrations of the In matrix component and the Te impurity increased more in the facet growth region than in the normal growth one.
Magnetostrictive and Magnetic Properties in Rare Earth-Iron-Based Amorphous Ribbons
Authors: Fukunaga Hirotoshi , Akagi Nobumichi
Published: March 2014

The Curie temperature T
c, the room temperature saturation magnetostriction constant λs and the coercive force H
c in amorphous (Tb0.33-Y
Gd
Y
Fe0.67-x
Co
x
)100-z
(Si, B)
z
(0≤X≤0.5, 0≤Y≤0.33, 6≤Z≤15) ribbons were studied. The substitution of Co for Fe or Gd for Tb increased λs and λs
2/H
c as well as T
c. In particular, the substitution of Gd improves magnetostrictive properties remarkably, and a value of λs=32×10-5 was obtained in (Gd0.1Tb0.23Fe0.67)94B6 ribbon. The value of λs
2/H
c in the above ribbon (4.6×10-10 Oe-1) is six times larger than that expected in amorphous TbFe2 alloy.
Reflected and Transmitted Fields of Focused Ultrasonic Waves
Authors: Li Hyo Ung , Negishi Katsuo
Published: March 2014

We present the results of calculated reflection field from a glass block surface and calculated reflection and transmission fields from a copper plate by focused ultrasonic waves in water using Fourier transform method. Calculated results are in good agreement with those of experiments. It is shown that the striation in the reflection and transmission fields of the copper plate are interference fringes of two plane-waves reradiated from corresponding Lamb modes.
Properties of Modified Lead Titanate Ceramics for an Ignition Plug Washer Sensor
Authors: Takeuchi Kiyoshi
Published: March 2014

The properties of modified lead titanate ceramics with poling treatment were studied at high pressure and temperature. At 200°C, the pressure over 700×100 kPa in a virgin sample caused 7% d
33 reduction which comes mostly from the 90° irreversible reorientation of polar axes of the domains. The sample after aging still showed considerable hysteresis at pressure below 400×100 kPa. The 90° reversible reorientation is suspicious for the cause of the hysteresis. Above 400×100 kPa, the d
33 showed gradual decrease with increasing pressure, however it is still stable enough for the sensor up to at least 1800×100 kPa and 200°C. The durability was verified at an endurance engine test.
Crystal Growth of Li2B4O7 and its Leaky SAW Properties
Authors: Adachi Masatoshi , Yamamichi Shintaro , Ohira Masaki , Shiosaki Tadashi , Kawabata Akira
Published: March 2014

Transparent, core free and good quality single crystals of Li2B4O7 have been grown at a growth rate of 3 mm/h. This crystal was very transparent and colourless, and possessed large regions free of any optical inhomogeneity. Theoretical and experimental results have shown the potential usefulness of Li2B4O7 for leaky SAW applications. The existance of orientation with zero TCD has been predicted by the computer analyses and confirmed experimentally for the leaky SAW. A new temperature compensated leaky SAW orientation has been located around (0°, 75°, 75°) with v=4235 m/s and k
2=1.8%.
Dynamics and Pressure Effect of the Helix in Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal with Small Pitch
Authors: Ozaki Masanori , Hatai Takashi , Tagawa Akira , Nakao Kenji , Tanicuchi Hiroki , Yoshino Katsumi
Published: March 2014

The dynamic property of helical structure in ferroelectric liquid crystal with a small helical pitch has been studied. In this compounds an anomalous temperature dependence of the dielectric constant due to the small helical pitch is observed. In the homeotropic geometry the color changes with temperature due to the selective reflection in the region of the visible light. The influence of the hydrostatic pressure on the helical pitch has also been measured utilizing the spectral change by this selective reflection.
Variable Optical Divider Consisting of Multi-Layered Ceramic Plates
Authors: Utsunomiya Toshio
Published: March 2014

Various type of optical divider have been proposed, whose defect is that the dividing number is fixed. From applicative point of view, if the dividing number is changed, uses of the divider are considered to be wider. We propose a grating type divider with variable dividing number consisting of multi-layered ceramic plates by utilizing shear strain. Applying the voltage, the grating surface is deformed to be able to attain variable dividing properties. It is considered to be promising for the practical use.
Evaluation and Minimization of Experimental Errors in Elastic Constants and Internal Friction Obtained by the Composite-Bar Method
Authors: Kudo Seishi , Ozawa Masakuni
Published: March 2014

Using the composite-bar method, the fundamental frequency f
s and internal friction Q
-1 of a sample were measured as a function of the fundamental frequency f
q of the quartz vibrator by using quartz vibrators with different fundamental frequencies. The experimental values of f
s and Q
-1 varied with f
q and were maximum and minimum respectively at f
q=f
s. The f
s and Q
-1 values at f
q=f
s are the most probable values, and they were determined by interpolation of the data. The errors were 0.05 to 0.10% (practically negligible) in f
s and 20 to 300% in Q
-1, when the difference between f
q and the most probable f
s was 10%.
Reversible Ultrasonic Flat Motor Drived by Single Phase Driver
Authors: Iijima Tamotu , Sano Kazuhide , Fukasawa Toshiro , Nakagawa Yasuhiko , Ito Hiroshi
Published: March 2014

By using the coupled modes between longitudinal and flexural mode of flat vibrator, the possibility of a reversible ultrasonic flat motor drived by a single phase driver is assured. The single phase motor has simpler structure and driver than dual-phase motor.
Dielectric and Piezoelectric Properties of Polycrystalline Pb0.90(Lax·Li1-x)0.10Zr0.65·Ti0.35O3 Ceramics
Authors: Masuda Yoichiro , Baba Akira
Published: March 2014

The crystal structure, dielectric and piezoelectric properties of Pb0.90(La
x
Li1-x
)0.10Zr0.65·Ti0.35O3 systems are investigated, where the valence charge of (La
x
Li1-x
) complex ions changes from 2.5+ to 1.0+. The crystal structure of these compositions is comfirmed as the rhombohedral phase of perovskite structure, however, the true symmetry of Pb0.90Li0.10Zr0.65·Ti0.35O3 composition is not comfirmed. The highest value of remanent polarization (P
r) and electromechanical coupling factor (k
t) are obtained for Pb0.90(La0.5Li0.5)0.10Zr0.65·Ti0.35O3 ceramics, and these values are about 25 µC/cm2 and 60%, respectively. The electrical resistivity of Pb0.90La0.1Zr0.65Ti0.35O3 ceramics shows a sharp drop in the temperature range from 20 to 45°C. Dence and good quality ceramics are formed with the average valence-charge of more than 2+.
Piezoelectric and Electrostrictive Properties of Ceramics in Pb1-xBax(Zn1/3Nb2/3)yZrzTi1-y-zO3 System
Authors: Kato Terumasa , Sato Makoto , Imai Atsuo
Published: March 2014

Piezoelectric and electrostrictive properties of ceramic Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbZrO3–PbTiO3 pseudoternary system have been studied. In these ceramics prepared by the conventional ceramic processing, both perovskite (ferroelectric) and pyrochlore (non-ferroelectric) phases are coexistent. The presence of pyrochlore phase is detrimental to piezoelectric and electrostrictive properties. The substitution of Ba for Pb stabilized the perovskite phase in this ternary system. The composition which suppresses the pyrochlore phase was decided to be Pb0.86Ba0.14(Zn1/3Nb2/3)0.12Zr0.6Ti0.28O3 in the ternary system, which gave the large piezoelectric coefficient d to be 1.32×10-9/V and electrostrictive coefficient M to be -30.9×10-20 m2/V2.
Ordering of Ba(B1/3, B2/3
1)O3 Ceramics and Their Microwave Dielectric Properties
Authors: Hiuga Takehiro , Matsumoto Kazutoshi
Published: March 2014

Dielectric constant and the temperature coefficient of a resonant frequency are both decreased with increasing the degree of order of octahedral-site ions in Ba(Zn0.8Ni0.1Co0.1)1/3(Ta0.6Nb0.4)2/3O3 perovskite-type compound. The lattice parameter is also decreased with increasing the degree of order. The ordered structure is observed in the samples annealed at 1400°C, though it is not observed in the samples annealed at 1500°C. Besides, the ordered phase obtained at 1400°C is changed to a disordered phase by the annealing at 1500°C. These results indicate that the dielectric constant and the temperature coefficient of a resonant frequency of ordered perovskites can be controlled by controlling the degree of order.
Piezoelectric Anisotropy in the Modified PbTiO3 Ceramics
Authors: Ichinose Noboru , Fuse Yuji , Yamada Yoshikazu , Sato Ryouichirou
Published: March 2014

This paper describes experimental and theoretical investigations of the piezoelectric properties in the (Pb, Me) [(Co1/2W1/2), Ti]O3 system (Me=Ca, Sr, Ba). It is demonstrated that the large anisotropy has been found in the (Pb, Ca) [(Co1/2W1/2), Ti]O3 ceramics. It may not be caused by the following mechanism such as the bulk property of PbTiO3 crystallites, the domain wall effect and the statistical orientation of crystallites in the ceramics. Another mechanism is necessary to explain this piezoelectric anisotropy.
Piezoelectric Properties of Low Coercive-Field BaTiO3 Ceramics and Its Application
Authors: Nagata Kunihiro , Kiyota Tatsuya
Published: March 2014

Low coercive-field BaTiO3 ceramics having a very low coercive field, 37 V/mm, was produced by substituting of 9 mol% Hf–Zr to Ti-site. Dielectric, piezoelectric and electrostrictive properties of low coercive-field BaTiO3 were discussed compared with those of the normal BaTiO3 ceramics. Piezoelectric and electrostrictive constants of the low coercive-field BaTiO3 were found 2 to 4 times higher than those of normal BaTiO3, and the low coercive-filed BaTiO3 was shown a quadratic characteristic in the strain as a function of electric field. In the vibration of piezoelectric transformer made by low coercive-field BaTiO3 at 5 kHz, the output frequency at 10 kHz with twice of input frequency was observed.
Magnetooptical Effects in Compositionally Modulated Co/Pd Thin Films
Authors: Shin Sung-Chul
Published: March 2014

We have investigted the magnetooptical effects in compositionally modulated Co/Pd thin films by measuring both the polar Kerr and ellipticity loops at a 780 nm wavelength. A squared magnetooptical hysteresis loop was observed for the samples having the Co sublayer thickness of 2 Å and the Pd sublayer thickness larger than about 6 Å. In this system, it was found that magnetooptical effects were strongly dependent on the Co and Pd sublayer thicknesses as well as the total film thickness.
Analysis of Reproduced Waveform in Phase-Change Single-Beam Overwrite
Authors: Miyauchi Yasushi , Terao Motoyasu , Andoo Keikichi , Tamura Reiji , Ohta Norio
Published: March 2014

Reproduced wave forms for the mark-center-detection and the mark-edge-detection recording methods are analysed for a phase-change optical disk with a Ge–Sb–Te–Co recording film which certifies a high C/N and single-beam overwrites of more than 105 times. The result showing that the disk has high-density recording capability. Signal demodulation for the mark-edge-detection recording method is possible at a small error-generation probability when the recording laser power is in the range of 60% to 140% of the most preferable power level and the erase ratio is greater than 25 dB.
Integrated Holographic Optical Pickup Head with Wide Allowance Range
Authors: Kadowaki Shin-ichi , Komma Yoshiaki , Hori Yoshikazu , Kato Makoto
Published: March 2014

We propose an integrated hybrid device based on spot-size detection method for holographic optical pickup head and discuss allowances of the misalignment with laser and photodetector. The integrated hybrid device with parallel-shaped photodetector is found to permit positional misalignment of over 200 µm.
Photon-Gated Persistent Spectral Hole-Burning
Authors: Moerner W. E.
Published: March 2014

This article reviews recent progress in the area of photon-gated persistent spectral hole-burning, in which one photon selects absorbers in an inhomogeneously broadened line and a second “gating'. photon of a different wavelength completes the excitation necessary to produce a spectral hole. This phenomenon provides a crucial threshold in the hole formation process, allowing reading with the first wavelength alone to be nondestructive. Examples of photon-gating in both inorganic and organic materials are summarized, with emphasis on the organic materials.
Femtosecond Optical Memory with an Incoherent Light Source
Authors: Uchikawa Kiyoshi , Ohsawa Hisao , Saikan Seishiro
Published: March 2014

The time resolution in the photon echo memory has been improved significantly by using a broadband incoherent light and the heterodyne detection of the photon echo. The time resolution has reached almost the limiting value which is determined by the inhomogeneous spectral width of the hole burning material. With the use of a digital optical delay line, the optical data has been retrieved with a high signal-to-noise ratio.
STM Observation of Amorphous Marks in Phase Change Media
Authors: Yagi Shogo , Morita Kasumi , Fujimori Susumu , Yamazaki Hiroki
Published: March 2014

An SbTe erasable optical storage medium is observed with an STM. The topography obtained with an STM can explained residual signals and a tracking instability. Additionally, we introduce a new technique for obtaining a differential tunneling conductance image, which can distinguish between crystal and amorphous states.
A High Performance Single Chip LSI for Error Correction of Optical Disk Memory
Authors: Murai Katsumi , Ichinose Makoto , Kuroki Yuzuru , Usui Makoto , Tagaki Yuji , Fukushima Yoshihisa , Satoh Isao
Published: March 2014

A Single chip error correcting LSI of Reed-Solomon long minimum distance code (d=<17) has been developed for optical disk memory. High speed decoding of error correcting code has been realized by internal multi-processing architecture, in which interleaving, syndrome calculation, error correction, and data inter facing with the host computer are processed simultaneously. In addition to the adoption of a multiprocessor configuration, high speed hardware for error correction and detection is employed to realize “on the fly” decoding which decodes any decodable errors of a code of length n=20 distance d=<17 within 600 clocks. Euclidian algorithm is applied for correction of errors, and unknown error locations, besides, a newly developed recursive algorithm is applied to erasure correction if error locations are identified beforehand. This contributes to both high speed decoding and hardware reduction. Check words and other parameters are selectable and these are set up in registers via an external micro-controller bus. A Small Computer System Interface(SCSI-2) has been provided as the system interface.
High Linear Density Recording of 0.3 µm Domain Length on Magneto-Optical Disk
Authors: Takahashi Masahiko , Sukeda Hirofumi , Nakao Takeshi , Niihara Toshio , Ojima Masahiro , Ohta Norio
Published: March 2014

High linear density magneto-optical recording of 0.3 µm domain length is studied for both laser power modulation and magnetic field modulation methods, through optical observation and numerical simulation of recorded domains on a rotating 5.25 inch TbFeCo disk. In the laser power modulation method, domain length of around 0.3 µm changes largely with fluctuations in recording power. By decreasing the wavelength of the incident laser beam, the amount of change can be reduced. On the other hand, in the magnetic field modulation method, a 0.3 µm domain length can be recorded stably against power deviation even in the case of an 830 nm wavelength at linear velocities of 5∼15 m/sec.
Development of an ISO Sampled Servo Rewritable/Write-Once Combination Optical Disk Drive
Authors: Furuhata Hitoshi , Konno Youichi , Fueki Hiroyuki , Shikano Yoshinori , Okada Shin-ichi , Niizawa Seiichi , Naito Ryuichi
Published: March 2014

A combination drive has been developed for use with both magneto-optical (MO) and write-once (WORM) disks. Adopting the ISO (Draft) 130 mm sampled servo format, the drive achieves the high reliability of separated optical system along with fast access speed. Only slightly more complex circuitry is reqired than for a dedicated magneto-optical (MO) drive, so that multi-functionality is realized without a significant on cost.
Assessing the contribution of different factors in regional climate model projections using the factor separation method
Authors: Torma Csaba , Giorgi Filippo
Published: March 2014

This study applies the factor separation (FS) method to investigate the contributions of different factors, along with their synergy, on a set of regional climate model (RCM) projections for the Mediterranean region. The FS method is applied to six projections for the period 1970–2100 performed with the regional model RegCM4 over the Med‐CORDEX domain. Two different sets of factors are intercompared, namely the driving global climate model (GCM) boundary conditions against two model physics settings (convection scheme and irrigation). We demonstrate the usefulness of the FS method to assess different sources of uncertainty in RCM‐based regional climate projections.
Characterization of the designer benzodiazepine diclazepam and preliminary data on its metabolism and pharmacokinetics
Authors: Moosmann Bjoern , Bisel Philippe , Auwärter Volker
Published: March 2014

Designer benzodiazepines, first offered in online shops selling ‘research chemicals’ in 2012, provide an attractive alternative to prescription‐only benzodiazepines as they are readily available over the Internet at a low price. However, as data regarding pharmacokinetic parameters, metabolism, and detectability in biological fluids are limited, they present a challenge for forensic laboratories. Most recently, diclazepam (other names: 2‐chlorodiazepam, Ro 5‐3448 or 7‐chloro‐5‐(2‐chlorophenyl)‐1‐methyl‐1,3‐dihydro‐2H‐1,4‐benzodiazepin‐2‐one) emerged as a new compound in this class of drugs. In this paper, this new designer benzodiazepine was characterized utilizing nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) as well as liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) techniques. Furthermore, a self‐experiment was performed to gain preliminary data on pharmacokinetic properties and to identify the main metabolites. For this purpose, one tablet of diclazepam (declared amount: 1 mg) was ingested by one of the authors, and serum as well as urine samples were collected for 14 and 21 days, respectively. Based on this study, diclazepam has an approximate elimination half‐life of 42 h and is metabolized into the pharmacologically active benzodiazepines delorazepam, lorazepam, and lormetazepam which can be detected in urine for 6, 19, and 11 days, respectively, when applying the presented LC‐MS/MS method. In serum, the consumption could be proven between 99 h post‐intake targeting the parent compound and up to 10 days targeting the metabolite delorazepam. As immunochemical assays are applied for screening purposes quite often, detectability using this technique was assessed, especially since detection of low‐dosed benzodiazepines can be sometimes problematic. However, only one of the utilized immunochemical assays was capable of detecting the intake of one tablet diclazepam, and the positive results were restricted to a few urine samples showing relatively high creatinine concentrations. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resource utilization and end‐of‐life care in a US hospital following medical emergency team‐implemented do not resuscitate orders
Authors: Dargin James M. , Mackey Caleb G. , Lei Yuxiu , Liesching Timothy N.
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND

Medical emergency teams frequently implement do not resuscitate orders, but little is known about end‐of‐life care in this population.

OBJECTIVE

To examine resource utilization and end‐of‐life care following medical emergency team‐implemented do not resuscitate orders.

DESIGN

Retrospective review.

SETTING

Single, tertiary care center.

PATIENTS

Consecutive adult inpatients requiring a medical emergency team activation over 1 year.

MEASUREMENTS

Changes to code status, time spent on medical emergency team activations, frequency of palliative care consultation, discharges with hospice care.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

RESULTS

We observed 1156 medical emergency team activations in 998 patients. Five percent (58/1156) resulted in do not resuscitate orders. The median time spent on activations with a change in code status was longer than activations without a change (66 vs 60 minutes, P = 0.05). Patients with a medical emergency team‐implemented do not resuscitate order had a higher inpatient mortality (43 vs 27%, P = 0.04) and were less likely to be discharged with hospice at the end of life than patients with a preexisting do not resuscitate order (4 vs 29%, P = 0.01). There was no difference in palliative care consultation in patients with a preexisting do not resuscitate versus medical emergency team‐implemented do not resuscitate order (20% vs 12%, P = 0.39).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite high mortality, patients with medical emergency team‐implemented do not resuscitate orders had a relatively low utilization of end‐of‐life resources, including palliative care consultation and home hospice services. Coordinated care between medical emergency teams and inpatient palliative care services may help to improve end‐of‐life care. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2014;9:372–378. © 2014 Society of Hospital Medicine
The Effect of the Japan 2011 Disaster on Nuclear and Alternative Energy Stocks Worldwide: An Event Study
Authors: Ferstl Robert , Utz Sebastian , Wimmer Maximilian
Published: March 2014

This event study investigates the impact of the Japanese nuclear disaster in Fukushima-Daiichi on the daily stock prices of French, German, Japanese, and U.S. nuclear utility and alternative energy firms. Hypotheses regarding the (cumulative) abnormal returns based on a three-factor model are analyzed through joint tests by multivariate regression models and bootstrapping. Our results show significant abnormal returns for Japanese nuclear utility firms during the one-week event window and the subsequent four-week post-event window. Furthermore, while French and German nuclear utility and alternative energy stocks exhibit significant abnormal returns during the event window, we cannot confirm abnormal returns for U.S. stocks.
Predictors of parent–adolescent communication in post‐apartheid South Africa: A protective factor in adolescent sexual and reproductive health
Authors: Coetzee Jenny , Dietrich Janan , Otwombe Kennedy , Nkala Busi , Khunwane Mamakiri , van der Watt Martin , Sikkema Kathleen J. , Gray Glenda E.
Published: March 2014

In the HIV context, risky sexual behaviours can be reduced through effective parent–adolescent communication. This study used the Parent Adolescent Communication Scale to determine parent–adolescent communication by ethnicity and identify predictors of high parent–adolescent communication amongst South African adolescents post‐apartheid. A cross‐sectional interviewer‐administered survey was administered to 822 adolescents from Johannesburg, South Africa. Backward stepwise multivariate regressions were performed. The sample was predominantly Black African (62%, n = 506) and female (57%, n = 469). Of the participants, 57% (n = 471) reported high parent–adolescent communication. Multivariate regression showed that gender was a significant predictor of high parent–adolescent communication (Black African OR:1.47, CI: 1.0–2.17, Indian OR: 2.67, CI: 1.05–6.77, White OR: 2.96, CI: 1.21–7.18). Female‐headed households were predictors of high parent–adolescent communication amongst Black Africans (OR:1.49, CI: 1.01–2.20), but of low parent–adolescent communication amongst Whites (OR:0.36, CI: 0.15–0.89). Overall levels of parent–adolescent communication in South Africa are low. HIV prevention programmes for South African adolescents should include information and skills regarding effective parent–adolescent communication.
Superfluid qubit systems with ring shaped optical lattices
Authors: Amico Luigi , Aghamalyan Davit , Auksztol Filip , Crepaz Herbert , Dumke Rainer , Kwek Leong Chuan
Published: March 2014

We study an experimentally feasible qubit system employing neutral atomic currents. Our system is based on bosonic cold atoms trapped in ring-shaped optical lattice potentials. The lattice makes the system strictly one dimensional and it provides the infrastructure to realize a tunable ring-ring interaction. Our implementation combines the low decoherence rates of neutral cold atoms systems, overcoming single site addressing, with the robustness of topologically protected solid state Josephson flux qubits. Characteristic fluctuations in the magnetic fields affecting Josephson junction based flux qubits are expected to be minimized employing neutral atoms as flux carriers. By breaking the Galilean invariance we demonstrate how atomic currents through the lattice provide an implementation of a qubit. This is realized either by artificially creating a phase slip in a single ring, or by tunnel coupling of two homogeneous ring lattices. The single qubit infrastructure is experimentally investigated with tailored optical potentials. Indeed, we have experimentally realized scaled ring-lattice potentials that could host, in principle, n ~ 10 of such ring-qubits, arranged in a stack configuration, along the laser beam propagation axis. An experimentally viable scheme of the two-ring-qubit is discussed, as well. Based on our analysis, we provide protocols to initialize, address and read-out the qubit.
KOAc-promoted alkynylation of α-C–H bonds of ethers with alkynyl bromides under transition-metal-free conditions
Authors: Zhang Jiajun , Li Pinhua , Wang Lei
Published: March 2014

KOAc-promoted α-position C–H activation and alkynylation of ethers with alkynyl bromides to 2-alkynyl ethers was developed under transition-metal-free conditions.
Listeria floridensis sp. nov., Listeria aquatica sp. nov., Listeria cornellensis sp. nov., Listeria riparia sp. nov. and Listeria grandensis sp. nov., from agricultural and natural environments
Authors: den Bakker Henk C. , Warchocki Steven , Wright Emily M. , Allred Adam F. , Ahlstrom Christina , Manuel Clyde S. , Stasiewicz Matthew J. , Burrell Angela , Roof Sherry , Strawn Laura K. , Fortes Esther , Nightingale Kendra K. , Kephart Daniel , Wiedmann Martin
Published: March 2014

Sampling of agricultural and natural environments in two US states (Colorado and Florida) yielded 18 Listeria-like isolates that could not be assigned to previously described species using traditional methods. Using whole-genome sequencing and traditional phenotypic methods, we identified five novel species, each with a genome-wide average blast nucleotide identity (ANIb) of less than 85 % to currently described species. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences and amino acid sequences of 31 conserved loci showed the existence of four well-supported clades within the genus

Listeria

; (i) a clade representing

Listeria monocytogenes

,

L. marthii

,

L. innocua

,

L. welshimeri

,

L. seeligeri

and

L. ivanovii

, which we refer to as

Listeria

sensu stricto, (ii) a clade consisting of

Listeria fleischmannii

and two newly described species, Listeria aquatica sp. nov. (type strain FSL S10-1188T = DSM 26686T = LMG 28120T = BEI NR-42633T) and Listeria floridensis sp. nov. (type strain FSL S10-1187T = DSM 26687T = LMG 28121T = BEI NR-42632T), (iii) a clade consisting of

Listeria rocourtiae

,

L. weihenstephanensis

and three novel species, Listeria cornellensis sp. nov. (type strain TTU A1-0210T = FSL F6-0969T = DSM 26689T = LMG 28123T = BEI NR-42630T), Listeria grandensis sp. nov. (type strain TTU A1-0212T = FSL F6-0971T = DSM 26688T = LMG 28122T = BEI NR-42631T) and Listeria riparia sp. nov. (type strain FSL S10-1204T = DSM 26685T = LMG 28119T = BEI NR- 42634T) and (iv) a clade containing

Listeria grayi

. Genomic and phenotypic data suggest that the novel species are non-pathogenic.
BPM for change management: two process diagnosis techniques
Authors: Inês Dallavalle de Pádua Silvia , Mascarenhas Hornos da Costa Janaina , Segatto Mayara , Aparecido de Souza Júnior Melchior , José Chiappetta Jabbour Charbel
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– This paper focuses on organizational change through the business process management approach. While “business process modeling” permits understanding process activities and their activities with other participants, “current reality tree (CRT)” technique promotes the identification of process constraints. The purpose of this study is to compare the results from applying both diagnostic techniques, process modeling, using the business process modeling notation, and root cause analysis, using the CRT.

Design/methodology/approach

– The comparison is made using a pre-experiment in which two teams conducted diagnoses concomitantly in the information technology management (ITM) process of one unit of the biggest and prestigious higher education institution (HEI) in Brazil.

Findings

– The modeling technique and the CRT should be considered complementary techniques, since applying one does not diminish or exclude the importance of using the other. Results were compared analyzing which dimensions of the process each technique highlighted: strategy, organization, activity/information and resources.

Research limitations/implications

– A possible limitation of this research is that the experiment was conducted in a single process and the result cannot be generalized to other processes.

Practical implications

– It may be noted that the main contribution of this study is the presentation of the steps of two techniques for process diagnosis. It is expected that with the reports on diagnoses outcomes, team's assessment and the perception of the managers presented here other improvement teams may use the results of this research as an inspiration to perform process diagnosis, and as basis for decision making to define which technique to use according to the specific needs of process improvement.

Originality/value

– The paper stands out the comparison of the technique application's outcomes. This study offers valuable insights to the organizations that are interested in restructuring their processes. It delineates many important benefits of such a diagnosis techniques. It also identifies possible pitfalls and recommends guidelines for the successful conduction of process diagnoses initiatives.
Linking IMO with employees' fit with their environment and reciprocal behaviours towards the firm
Authors: Boukis Achilleas , Gounaris Spiros
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to integrate the fit theory and the equity theory in order to stress the importance of retail supervisor's IMO adoption for enhancing contact employees' fit with their environment and for shaping positive employee extra-role behaviours towards their firm and their supervisor.

Design/methodology/approach

– A hierarchical research design is employed with evidence from 89 from retail store supervisors through personal interviews and 417 contact employees.

Findings

– This study contributes by suggesting IMO as a mechanism which can raise employees' fit with their organization and their supervisor. Another finding of this study lies on the role of IMO for positive employee-outcomes such as higher patronage and motivation to report service complaints.

Research limitations/implications

– Additional research is necessary to identify whether different individual characteristics and background influence employees' fit with their organization or their supervisor. The results presented in this study clearly suggest an important first step in understanding the importance of IMO adoption for employees' better fit with their environment.

Practical implications

– Considering that supervisor's level of IMO accounts for a significant portion of contact employees' IMO adoption, it is imperative that top management must first sell the organization itself especially to middle level managers before implementing an internal marketing program across the whole firm. As IMO increases employees' fit with their environment, this paper departs from the view that managers can mainly achieve “fit” into their organization and avoid misfit only by carefully attracting and selecting individuals. moreover, managers should take into account that IMO increases employees' willingness to report service complaints to their supervisor.

Originality/value

– This study is intended to be a key step in bringing internal marketing and fit research together while also formally including IMO into multilevel marketing research and providing an important shift for extant research by discussing how interpersonal interactions between different organizational groups shape IMO adoption. From a theoretical view, the paper extends fit theory by establishing IMO implementation as a key strategy for recovering or increasing employees' fit with their environment.
The Effects of Public Information with Asymmetrically Informed Short‐Horizon Investors
Authors: CHEN QI , HUANG ZEQIONG , ZHANG YUN
Published: March 2014

This paper analyzes the effects of public information in a perfect competition trading model populated by asymmetrically informed short‐horizon investors with different levels of private information precision. We first show that information asymmetry reduces the amount of private information revealed by price in equilibrium (i.e., price informativeness) and can lead to multiple linear equilibria. We then demonstrate that the presence of both information asymmetry and short horizons provides a channel through which public information influences price informativeness and equilibrium uniqueness. We identify conditions under which public information increases or decreases price informativeness, and when multiple equilibria may arise. Our analysis shows that public information not only directly endows prices with more (public) information, it can also have an important indirect effect on the degree to which prices reveal private information.
Neutrophil migration towards C5a and CXCL8 is prevented by non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs via inhibition of different pathways
Authors: Bertolotto Maria , Contini Paola , Ottonello Luciano , Pende Aldo , Dallegri Franco , Montecucco Fabrizio
Published: March 2014

Background and Purpose

Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been shown to induce PG‐independent anti‐inflammatory actions. Here, we investigated the role of three different NSAIDs (naproxen, ibuprofen and oxaprozin) on neutrophil responses to CXCL8 and C5a.

Experimental Approach

Human neutrophils were isolated from healthy volunteers by dextran and Ficoll‐Hypaque density gradients. Neutrophils were pre‐incubated with different concentrations (1–100 µM) of NSAIDs or kinase inhibitors. Neutrophil degranulation into supernatants was tested by elisa and zymography. Neutrophil chemotaxis was determined using Boyden chambers. F‐actin polymerization was determined by Alexa‐Fluor 488‐conjugated phalloidin fluorescent assay. Integrin expression was assessed by flow cytometry. The phosphorylation of intracellular kinases was studied by Western blot.

Key Results

Pretreatment with NSAIDs did not affect neutrophil degranulation, but inhibited neutrophil migration and polymerization of F‐actin, in response to CXCL8 and C5a. Pretreatment with different NSAIDs prevented C5a‐induced integrin (CD11b) up‐regulation, while only ibuprofen reduced CXCL8‐induced CD11b up‐regulation. Pre‐incubation with naproxen or oxaprozin, but not ibuprofen, inhibited the PI3K/Akt‐dependent chemotactic pathways. Both endogenous (released in cell supernatants) or exogenous (added to cell cultures) PGE2 did not affect C5a‐ or CXCL8‐induced activities. Short‐term incubation with NSAIDs did not affect neutrophil PGE2 release.

Conclusion and Implications

Treatment with NSAIDs reduced C5a‐ and CXCL8‐induced neutrophil migration and F‐actin polymerization via different mechanisms. Inhibition by ibuprofen was associated with integrin down‐regulation, while naproxen and oxaprozin blocked the PI3K/Akt pathway. Both NSAID actions were independent of COX inhibition and PGE2 release.
Remembering Things Without Context: Development Matters
Authors: Edgin Jamie O. , Spanò Goffredina , Kawa Kevin , Nadel Lynn
Published: March 2014

Spatial context supports memory retrieval in adults. To understand the development of these effects, context effects on object recognition were tested in neurotypical children ages 3 years to adulthood (n 3–6 years = 34, n 10–16 years = 32, n college age = 22) and individuals with Down syndrome (DS) ages 10–29 years (n = 21). Participants engaged in an object recognition task; objects were presented in scenes and either remained in that same scene or were removed at test. In some groups (< 4.5 years and with DS) context effects were present even though object recognition was poor. After 4.5 years, children demonstrated memory flexibility, while later in adolescence context effects reemerged, showing nonlinearity in the development of these effects.
Peer Group Rejection in Childhood: Effects of Rejection Ambiguity, Rejection Sensitivity, and Social Acumen
Authors: Nesdale Drew , Zimmer‐Gembeck Melanie J. , Roxburgh Natalie
Published: March 2014

This study examined the reactions of 6 to 12 year old children (N = 144) to in‐group members who accepted or rejected them, and assessed whether their reactions were influenced by their rejection sensitivity (RS) and social acumen (SA). After completing measures of RS and SA, children participated in an intergroup simulation in which they were accepted or unambiguously versus ambiguously rejected by their group. Findings indicated that whereas ambiguously rejected children understood that they had been rejected, they nevertheless retained greater in‐group identification and more positive attitudes than the rejected children, although less than the accepted children. However, as with rejected participants, ambiguously rejected children still opted to change groups whereas accepted children did not. SA children liked the in‐group less, whereas those with SA liked the in‐group more. Discussion focused on children's selection of peer groups, as well as the effects of their rejection from them.