bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microfluidic concentration of bacteria by on-chip electrophoresis
Authors: Puchberger-Enengl Dietmar , Podszun Susann , Heinz Helene , Hermann Carsten , Vulto Paul , Urban Gerald A.
Published: December 2011

In this contribution, we present a system for efficient preconcentration of pathogens without affecting their viability. Development of miniaturized molecular diagnostic kits requires concentration of the sample, molecule extraction, amplification, and detection. In consequence of low analyte concentrations in real-world samples, preconcentration is a critical step within this workflow. Bacteria and viruses exhibit a negative surface charge and thus can be electrophoretically captured from a continuous flow. The concept of phaseguides was applied to define gel membranes, which enable effective and reversible collection of the target species. E. coli of the strains XL1-blue and K12 were used to evaluate the performance of the device. By suppression of the electroosmotic flow both strains were captured with efficiencies of up to 99%. At a continuous flow of 15 μl/min concentration factors of 50.17 ± 2.23 and 47.36 ± 1.72 were achieved in less than 27 min for XL1-blue and K12, respectively. These results indicate that free flow electrophoresis enables efficient concentration of bacteria and the presented device can contribute to rapid analyses of swab-derived samples.
Evaluation of the specific boundary resistance of superconducting/weakly ferromagnetic hybrids by critical temperature measurements
Authors: Mancusi D. , Ilyina E. A. , Kushnir V. N. , Prischepa S. L. , Cirillo C. , Attanasio C.
Published: December 2011

The specific boundary resistance, RB, of superconducting (S)/ferromagnetic (F) hybrids is obtained by measuring the dependence of the superconducting critical temperature, Tc, as a function of the thickness of the ferromagnetic layers, dF, and of the thickness of the superconducting layers, dS, in S/F bilayers and of the number of S/F bilayers, Nbil, for large values of Nbil, in F/[S/F]Nbil multilayers. We choose Nb for the superconducting material and two weakly ferromagnetic alloys, Cu0.38Ni0.62 and Pd0.81Ni0.19, for F. Analyzing the experimental results by using a matrix formulation of a theoretical model based on the Usadel equations, we are able to determine the value of RB which for both the S/F hybrids is of the order of 1 fΩm2.
Comment on “Dynamical systems and Poisson structures” [J. Math. Phys. 50, 112703 (2009)]
Authors: Haas F.
Published: December 2011

We show that Theorems 8, 9, and 11 in the work cited in the title are incorrect in general. The existence of globally well-defined first integrals or flow invariant functions for dynamical systems in Rn cannot be taken for granted.
Effect of hydrogen on the chemical bonding and band structure at the Al2O3/In0.53Ga0.47As interface
Authors: Shekhter Pini , Kornblum Lior , Liu Zuoguang , Cui Sharon , Ma T. P. , Eizenberg Moshe
Published: December 2011

Surface passivation of high mobility semiconductors such as InGaAs is a crucial bottleneck towards their integration in metal-oxide-semiconductor devices. The chemical structure and band offsets of InGaAs-Al2O3 with different passivations were investigated by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Pre-deposition forming gas plasma treatment is shown to significantly improve the chemistry of S-passivated InGaAs surface, on which the Al2O3 is deposited by the molecular atomic deposition technique. Moreover, the change in the surface chemistry was found to correlate with a difference of 0.8 eV in the band offsets at the interface. This may offer insights on Fermi level pinning in such systems.
Hot phonon effect in Dyakonov-Perel spin relaxation: Ehrenreich’s variational approach
Authors: Idrish Miah M.
Published: December 2011

The hot phonon effect in spin relaxation of drifting electrons in the zinc-blende semiconductor GaAs was investigated. Temperature- and doping-density dependent spin relaxations caused by polar optical phonon (POP) scattering were studied. Ehrenreich’s variational approach was used to include the longitudinal POP effect in a model of the scattering process. The electron spin was found to relax with a sub-THz rate and the spin lifetime (τs) was found to decrease with increasing the strength of the drifting field because during transport in an electric field, electrons were accelerated to higher velocities at higher fields. A high-field, however, completely depolarized the electron spin due to an increase of the electron temperature via the longitudinal POP scattering. It was also found that τs increases with increasing, but moderate, n-doping density or decreasing temperature. The results are discussed in detail.
Magnetoelectric nonlinearity in magnetoelectric laminate sensors
Authors: Shen Liangguo , Li Menghui , Gao Junqi , Shen Ying , Li J. F. , Viehland D. , Zhuang X. , Lam Chok Sing M. , Cordier C. , Saez S. , Dolabdjian C.
Published: December 2011

A nonlinearity in the magnetoelectric coefficient, αMENonlin, of Metglas/Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 (PZT) and Metglas/Pb(Mg1/3,Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) laminate sensors has been observed. This nonlinearity was found to be dependent on the dc magnetic bias (Hdc) and frequency of the ac drive field (Hac). The maximum value of αMENonlin for both types of composites was found near the electromechanical resonance. For Metglas/PZT laminates, the maximum occurred under a finite bias of Hdc ≈5 Oe; whereas, for Metglas/PMN-PT, the maximum was found near zero dc bias. One application for αMENonlin is a cross-modulation scheme that can shift low frequency signals to higher frequency to achieve lower noise floor. For Metglas/PMN-PT, αMENonlin has another application: removal of the necessity of a dc bias, which helps to design high-sensitivity sensor arrays and gradiometers.
Dependence of optimized annealing temperature for tetragonal phase formation on the Si concentration of atomic-layer-deposited Hf-silicate film
Authors: Kim Hyo Kyeom , Jung Hyung-Suk , Jang Jae Hyuck , Park Jinho , Park Tae Joo , Lee Seok-Hee , Hwang Cheol Seong
Published: December 2011

This study examined the relation between the permittivity and microstructures of atomic layer deposited Hf1−xSixO2 (HfSiO) thin films with different Si concentrations as a function of post-deposition annealing (PDA) temperature. The PDA at high temperature results in the separation of crystallized HfO2 phase from the much higher Si-containing amorphous-like matrix. Tetragonal phase HfO2 formation with higher permittivity than the monoclinic HfO2 phase is induced with an appropriate Si concentration in the film (∼10–20%). In the crystallized HfSiO film, the Si concentration in the phase-separated HfO2 (mainly consisting of HfO2) could be controlled by PDA temperature, which determines the degree of phase separation. The increased PDA temperature reduces the Si concentration in the phase-separated HfO2, which induced monoclinic phase formation. Therefore, the PDA temperature for maximized permittivity of the crystallized HfSiO films (maximized tetragonal phase portion in the film) depends on the Si concentration of the HfSiO film in the as-deposited state.
Effects of W diffusion barrier on inhibition of AlN formation in Ti/W/Al ohmic contacts on N-face n-GaN
Authors: Hee Song Yang , Ho Son Jun , Joon Kim Buem , ki Yu Hak , Jong Yoo Chul , Lee Jong-Lam
Published: December 2011

We investigate the effect of W diffusion barrier in Ti/W/Al ohmic contacts formed on N-face n-GaN. The contacts exhibit contact resistivity of as low as 2.3 × 10−4 Ω cm2 and better thermal stability than Ti/Al contacts. Cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy micrographs reveal that in-diffused Al atoms on the n-GaN surface react with N atoms to form an AlN layer in Ti/Al contacts, resulting in upward band bending, and consequently, a high contact resistivity. The use of a 10-nm-thick W layer suppresses the in-diffusion of Al atoms to n-GaN, thereby preventing the formation of AlN and enhancing the thermal stability of Ti/W/Al contacts.
Surface enhanced Raman scattering of aged graphene: Effects of annealing in vacuum
Authors: Wang Yingying , Ni Zhenhua , Li Aizhi , Zafar Zainab , Zhang Yan , Ni Zhonghua , Qu Shiliang , Qiu Teng , Yu Ting , Xiang Shen Ze
Published: December 2011

In this paper, we report a simple method to recover the surface enhanced Raman scattering activity of aged graphene. The Raman signals of Rhodamine molecules absorbed on aged graphene are dramatically increased after vacuum annealing and comparable to those on fresh graphene. Atomic force microscopy measurements indicate that residues on aged graphene surface can efficiently be removed by vacuum annealing, which makes target molecule closely contact with graphene. We also find that the hole doping in graphene will facilitate charge transfer between graphene and molecule. These results confirm the strong Raman enhancement of target molecule absorbed on graphene is due to the charge transfer mechanism.
Response and adaptation of soybean systems to climate warming in Northeast China: insights gained from long-term field trials
Authors: Zheng H. F. , Chen L. D. , Han X. Z.
Published: December 2011

Developing and assessing successful strategies to alleviate adverse impact of climate warming presents a new opportunity for sustainable agriculture and adaptation investment. Efforts to anticipate adaptation of cropping systems may benefit from understanding the global warming effects within decades. This study quantitatively examines the temperature warming impacts during, respectively, growing season and seed filling on soybean yields by using data from long-term field fertilisation experiments from 1987 to 2004. Here we report that grain yields significantly decreased with rising temperature during growing season, whereas the effects of increasing temperature at seed-filling stage on crop yields were significantly positive. The results indicate that a further temperature increment during seed filling appears to decrease soybean system’s risk of yield reduction. Importantly, we inferred that earlier occurrence of seed filling would increase the temperature of this period. The implication is that advancing the onset of soybean seed filling could be an effective adaptation option to global warming, providing an average yield benefit of ~14% per 10 days before the present date.
The traditional knowledge movement in the Pacific Island countries: the challenge of localism
Authors: Forsyth Miranda
Published: December 2011

This paper explores the challenge of respecting the local nature of traditional knowledge in two Pacific Islands’ regional initiatives. It argues that the embedded nature of traditional knowledge within the social fabric of Pacific Island communities necessitates an approach to regulation that respects existing customary laws and institutions, and contrasts this with the prevailing state-centred approaches. It also unpacks the different agendas behind the ambiguous term ‘protection’ and demonstrates the potential for misunderstanding among different stakeholders involved in this field. The paper finally identifies a number of negative consequences that could eventuate if a homogenised, state-based approach is adopted in this area, arguing that care must be taken to ensure that the regulatory framework chosen does not destroy more than it protects.
The ‘ownership’ of science
Authors: Rhodes Catherine , Harris John , Chan Sarah , Sulston John
Published: December 2011

Dr Catherine Rhodes is a research fellow at the Institute for Science, Ethics and Innovation specialising in the international regulations relevant to control of biotechnology. Professor John Harris is director of the Institute and has particular interest in biomedical ethics and medical jurisprudence. Sarah Chan is deputy director of the Institute. Professor Sir John Sulston was the founding director of the Wellcome Trust Sanger Centre in Cambridge from 1992 to 2000, where so much of the sequencing of the human genome was completed in a furious race to publish before American commercial interests patented. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in 2002.
L- to H-mode transitions at low density in ASDEX Upgrade
Authors: Sauter P. , Pütterich T. , Ryter F. , Viezzer E. , Wolfrum E. , Conway G.D. , Fischer R. , Kurzan B. , McDermott R.M. , Rathgeber S.K.
Published: December 2011

The results from ASDEX Upgrade discharges dedicated specifically to the investigation of low-density L-to-H transitions are presented. The plasmas were heated by electron cyclotron resonance heating to achieve a separation of electron and ion heat channels. Under such conditions, the ratio of electron to ion temperature at the plasma edge increases with decreasing density at the L–H transition and can be as high as 3.5. Our results strongly support the essential role of the ion channel in the L–H transition, via the diamagnetic E

r
provided by the ion pressure gradient.
Heuristic drift-based model of the power scrape-off width in low-gas-puff H-mode tokamaks
Authors: Goldston R.J.
Published: December 2011

A heuristic model for the plasma scrape-off width in low-gas-puff tokamak H-mode plasmas is introduced. Grad B and curv B drifts into the scrape-off layer (SOL) are balanced against near-sonic parallel flows out of the SOL, to the divertor plates. The overall particle flow pattern posited is a modification for open field lines of Pfirsch–Schlüter flows to include order-unity sinks to the divertors. These assumptions result in an estimated SOL width of ∼2aρp/R. They also result in a first-principles calculation of the particle confinement time of H-mode plasmas, qualitatively consistent with experimental observations. It is next assumed that anomalous perpendicular electron thermal diffusivity is the dominant source of heat flux across the separatrix, investing the SOL width, derived above, with heat from the main plasma. The separatrix temperature is calculated based on a two-point model balancing power input to the SOL with Spitzer–Härm parallel thermal conduction losses to the divertor. This results in a heuristic closed-form prediction for the power scrape-off width that is in reasonable quantitative agreement both in absolute magnitude and in scaling with recent experimental data. Further work should include full numerical calculations, including all magnetic and electric drifts, as well as more thorough comparison with experimental data.
Borderline nuclear change, high‐grade dyskaryosis not excluded: current concepts and impact on clinical practice
Authors: Soo Hoo S. , Patel A. , Buist H. , Galaal K. , Hemming J. D. , Naik R.
Published: December 2011

S. S. Hoo, A. Patel, H. Buist, K. Galaal, J. D. Hemming and R. Naik

Borderline nuclear change, high‐grade dyskaryosis not excluded: current concepts and impact on clinical practice

Objective:  Borderline nuclear change, high‐grade dyskaryosis not excluded (B/HG) is a subcategory of the borderline category recommended by the British Society for Clinical Cytology as warranting direct referral to colposcopy. This subcategory is equivalent to the Bethesda category of atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASC‐H). The purpose of this study was to determine the validity and accuracy of using B/HG to identify potential cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grade 2 or worse (CIN2+).

Methods:  Data were collected from the hospital pathology database for borderline, B/HG and high‐grade cytology (moderate dyskaryosis and above), and their respective histological and colposcopic outcomes. SPSS was used for data analysis.

Results:  Of the 84 799 total cytology samples screened between July 2006 and December 2009, 5225 (6.1%) were reported as borderline, 309 (0.4%) as B/HG and 1222 (1.4%) as high‐grade cytology. Thus, B/HG comprised 5.9% of the overall borderline category, in keeping with national guidelines (<10%). CIN2+ was confirmed in 86.6% of high‐grade, 40.8% of B/HG and 3.0% of borderline cytology. Of 309 women reported with B/HG cytology, 239 had colposcopy. Colposcopic appearances showed a positive predictive value (PPV) of 71.8% for detecting CIN2+ and a negative predictive value of 60.7%.

Conclusions:  The B/HG category was associated with a significantly higher incidence of CIN2+ compared with borderline cytology as a whole. This refining performance justifies its existence. Colposcopic appearances had a high PPV for detecting CIN2+. Therefore, colposcopy is recommended in patients with B/HG cytology and treatment should be offered if high‐grade colposcopic changes are seen.
SWAP70 functions as a Rac/Rop guanine nucleotide‐exchange factor in rice
Authors: Yamaguchi Koji , Imai Keiko , Akamatsu Akira , Mihashi Masanori , Hayashi Nagao , Shimamoto Ko , Kawasaki Tsutomu
Published: December 2011

Rho family small GTPases are involved in diverse signaling processes including immunity, growth, and development. The activity of Rho GTPases is regulated by cycling between guanosine diphosphate (GDP)‐bound inactive and guanosine triphosphate (GTP)‐bound active forms, in which guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) predominantly function to promote activation of the GTPases. In animals, most Rho GEFs possess a Dbl (diffuse B‐cell lymphoma) homology (DH) domain which functions as a GEF‐catalytic domain. However, no proteins with the DH domain have been identified in plants so far. Instead, plant‐specific Rho GEFs with the PRONE domain responsible for GEF activity have been found to constitute a large family in plants. In this study, we found rice homologs of human SWAP70, Oryza sativa (Os) SWAP70A and SWAP70B, containing the DH domain. OsSWAP70A interacted with rice Rho GTPase OsRac1, an important signaling factor for immune responses. The DH domain of OsSWAP70A exhibited the GEF‐catalytic activity toward OsRac1 as found in animal Rho GEFs, indicating that plants have the functional DH domains. Transient expression of OsSWAP70A enhanced OsRac1‐mediated production of reactive oxygen species in planta. Reduction of OsSWAP70A and OsSWAP70B mRNA levels by RNA interference resulted in the suppression of chitin elicitor‐induced defense gene expression and ROS production. Thus, it is likely that OsSWAP70 regulates immune responses through activation of OsRac1.
Multiple eccrine poromas in the paw of a dog
Authors: Whitley Derick B. , Mansell Joanne E. K. L.
Published: December 2011

A 5‐year‐old, spayed female boxer dog presented to the referring veterinarian with a year‐long history of swelling, ulceration and pain in the pawpad of the fourth digit of the right forelimb. Histologically, the pawpad was expanded by a mass composed of small polygonal cells forming broad bands and trabeculae within the lower epidermis that often infiltrated and replaced the overlying keratinocytes and that extended into the dermis. Lobules of eccrine glands within the deep dermis occasionally had one or more eccrine ducts that were lined by neoplastic ductal epithelial cells that formed papillary projections lined by one to two layers of neoplastic cells. Approximately 1 month after amputation of the fourth digit pad, several smaller nodular masses developed in multiple digital pads and the metacarpal pad of the same paw. All of the neoplasms were histologically identical to eccrine poroma (juxtaepidermal acrospiroma), a common benign neoplasm in humans that originates from the acrosyringium and upper dermal duct of eccrine glands. To the authors’ knowledge this is the first report documenting an eccrine poroma in a dog.
The Democratic Turnout ‘Problem’
Authors: Saunders Ben
Published: December 2011

A number of authors, including Lijphart, Hill and Engelen, have recently advocated compulsory voting. While numerous justifications can be given for such measures, it is often said that they are necessary to realise democracy fully, for instance ensuring that everyone casts one vote (no more and no less). This argument rests on the commonly held assumption that low turnout is a problem for democracies – a claim that the present article resists. I argue that democracy as it should be understood requires only that citizens have the opportunity to exercise power. I show that the right to vote can be valuable, even if it is not actually exercised. Leaving people to decide for themselves whether or not to vote is not only more liberal but democratic in so far as it respects their choices and makes it more likely that decisions are made by the relevant constituency. Although voluntary voting makes it likely that different groups will be unequally represented, this is not necessarily a problem; where some are more affected by a given decision there may be good democratic reasons to allow them more influence. Disproportionality can be bad where it exacerbates existing social disadvantage, but here the problem is the social disadvantage, rather than that people do not vote. Moreover, while universal turnout ensures proportionality, the problem of disproportionality is conceptually distinct from low turnout. There may be other reasons to favour higher turnout, including a concern to promote social justice, but it is not necessarily better on democratic grounds.
The Politics of Access: Narratives of Women MPs in the Indian Parliament
Authors: Rai Shirin M.
Published: December 2011

Based on extensive interviews with Indian women Members of Parliament, this article suggests that analysing subject narratives is an important method to understand the various routes taken by these women into parliamentary politics. This article pieces together life stories of Indian women MPs to reveal the complex layers of negotiations that women make to be successful. In making such an analysis, the article focuses on four avenues of access – family networks, social and political movements, the party system and the struggle over quotas for women. The article concludes that through narrative analysis we can understand better the importance of different strategies of political access in specific and embedded political, social and economic contexts and develop methodological insights into the broader issues of gendered access to politics.
TRANSBORDER OPENNESS OF COMPANIES IN A DIVIDED CITY: ZGORZELEC/GÖRLITZ CASE STUDY
Authors: DOŁZBŁASZ SYLWIA , RACZYK ANDRZEJ
Published: December 2011

The aim of this study was to research transborder openness of companies in the divided city Zgorzelec/Görlitz on the Polish‐German border in the context of the advancement of integration processes on a local scale. The analysis has been done from the point of view of the everyday life of its inhabitants. Polish and German economic entities providing chosen services were researched. The study aimed to show the level of openness of these institutions to clients from the other side of the border. The integration of business landscapes may lead to the formation of a common public space and strong functional connections between two parts of the divided city. Analysis has shown a significantly varying level of openness of companies depending on the type of activity. Moreover, an asymmetry was observed in the scope of the influence of Polish and German business landscape.
What's in a Name? A Critical Examination of Published and Website Sources on the Dualism of the Cathars in Languedoc
Authors: ZLATAR ZDENKO
Published: December 2011

This article addresses Mark Pegg's two books in which he has rejected the traditional, orthodox view of Catharism as a dualist movement and church in the south of France, in this case Languedoc, by examining the extant inquisitorial sources. It argues that, regardless of what they called themselves or they were called by their enemies, the so‐called “good men” were indeed dualists.
A European multicentre reappraisal of distal compound muscle action potential duration in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Authors: Rajabally Y. A. , Lagarde J. , Cassereau J. , Viala K. , Fournier E. , Nicolas G.
Published: December 2011

Background:  The electrodiagnostic value of distal compound muscle action potential duration (DCMAPD) has been studied rarely in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). Cut‐offs proposed have not been widely evaluated. The influence of low‐cut EMG filter settings ≤ 10 Hz as used in Europe is uncertain.

Methods:  We retrospectively reviewed records of 110 patients with typical, treatment‐responsive CIDP, from Leicester, U.K., Paris and Angers, France. All fulfilled revised European Federation of Neurological Societies/Peripheral Nerve Society (EFNS/PNS) clinical and electrodiagnostic criteria for typical CIDP (2010), before consideration of DCMAPD prolongation. Results were compared with those of 110 controls with chronic sensory/sensory‐motor axonal neuropathy. We constructed receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for each nerve and derived cut‐offs for DCMAPD prolongation, offering specificity of ≥ 98% vs. controls.

Results:  DCMAPD was significantly greater in all nerves for CIDP patients, compared with controls (P < 0.001). ROC curves allowed derivation of cut‐offs of sensitivities ranging from 27.1% (ulnar nerve) to 60% (tibial nerve). Using these cut‐offs to define DCMAPD prolongation in any studied motor nerve offered a sensitivity of 69.1% for CIDP and specificity of 97.3% vs. controls.

Conclusion:  Cut‐offs for DCMAPD are dependent on EMG filter settings. DCMAPD prolongation in any motor nerve, using our derived cut‐offs, represents a sensitive and specific marker of CIDP in patients studied with EMG equipment with low‐cut filter settings ≤ 10 Hz. Appropriate use of this parameter appears an essential criterion to consider in assessing suspected CIDP, which may be helpful in limiting extensiveness and duration of electrophysiological testing, thereby reducing patient discomfort.
Scenes and Means of Grace
Authors: Waldkoenig Gilson
Published: December 2011

Abstract:  The Word, Baptism, and Holy Communion—key means of grace according to the Lutheran tradition—take place in a web of earthly conditions whenever they are celebrated. Generating their own scenes of grace, the means of grace give voice, sense of place, and creativity where those are otherwise threatened. Other scenes of grace complement the means of grace, similarly bringing voice, place, and creativity in the face of environmental and social injustices. Martin Luther's affirmation of Christ's presence in creation, both in means of grace and throughout God's world, is a strategic and meaningful threshold for Christians to engage environment and justice while continuing to listen and look for the grace in Christ that feeds and shapes them.
Sinophysis and Pseudophalacroma are Distantly Related to Typical Dinophysoid Dinoflagellates (Dinophysales, Dinophyceae)
Authors: Gómez Fernando , Moreira David , López‐García Purificación
Published: December 2011

Dinophysoid dinoflagellates are usually considered a large monophyletic group. Large subunit and small subunit (SSU) rDNA phylogenies suggest a basal position for Amphisoleniaceae (Amphisolenia,Triposolenia) with respect to two sister groups, one containing most Phalacroma species plus Oxyphysis and the other Dinophysis,Ornithocercus, Dinophysoid dinoflagellates are usually considered a large monophyletic group. Large subunit and small subunit (SSU) rDNA phylogenies suggest a basal position for Amphisoleniaceae (Amphisolenia,Triposolenia) with respect to two sister groups, one containing most Phalacroma species plus Oxyphysis and the other Dinophysis,Ornithocercus, Histioneis,Citharistes and some Phalacroma species. We provide here new SSU rDNA sequences of Pseudophalacroma (pelagic) and Sinophysis (the only benthic dinophysoid genus). Molecular phylogenies support that they are very divergent with respect to the main clade of Dinophysales. Additional molecular markers of these two key genera are needed to elucidate the evolutionary relations among the dinophysoid dinoflagellates.

Histioneis,Citharistes and some Phalacroma species. We provide here new SSU rDNA sequences of Pseudophalacroma (pelagic) and Sinophysis (the only benthic dinophysoid genus). Molecular phylogenies support that they are very divergent with respect to the main clade of Dinophysales. Additional molecular markers of these two key genera are needed to elucidate the evolutionary relations among the dinophysoid dinoflagellates.
Couples and Computer‐Mediated Communication: A Closer Look at the Affordances and Use of the Channel
Authors: Perry Martha S. , Werner‐Wilson Ronald J.
Published: December 2011

The use of the Internet, mobile phones, and other technology is becoming commonplace for the purpose of interpersonal communication. Romantic relationships are one type of interpersonal relationship that utilizes computer‐mediated communication (CMC). This study assesses the use of CMC by couples for problem‐solving‐type discussions. Ninety‐four individuals (47 couples) engaged in problem‐solving discussions in both face‐to‐face (FtF) and CMC conditions. Couples also participated in a semi‐structured interview where they were asked how and why they use CMC in their relationship. Results suggest that couples experienced similar levels of satisfaction in the CMC and FtF conditions and that attitudes and history of CMC use significantly predict levels of satisfaction in the CMC condition. Couples also reported experiences of using CMC for conflict‐resolution‐type purposes. Results from the interviews suggest that the use of CMC allows for de‐escalation of conflict and increases time to construct ideas.
Sexual dimorphism documented in Reptalus iguchii (Matsumura) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Cixiidae) with a description of males
Authors: RAHMAN Mohammad Atikur , KWON Yong Jung , SUH Sang Jae
Published: December 2011

Reptalus iguchii (Matsumura 1914) comb. nov., previously known from female specimens, is recognized for the first time in the Republic of Korea. This species is sexually dimorphic, based on observations of a pair in copula. Detailed morphological characters of both male and female were studied and are illustrated. Also, sequence data from ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) and cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) genes were used to distinguish males and females of the only other congener known from Korea, R. quadricinctus (Matsumura 1914). Artemisia and Prunus are recorded as potential hosts in the Republic of Korea for the first time.
Novel Effects of Macrolide Antibiotics on Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Suzuki Jun‐ichi , Ogawa Masahito , Hishikari Keiichi , Watanabe Ryo , Takayama Kiyoshi , Hirata Yasunobu , Nagai Ryozo , Isobe Mitsuaki
Published: December 2011

Macrolide antibiotics are broadly used for the treatment of various microbial infections. However, they are also known to have multiple biologic effects, such as alteration of inflammatory factors and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Because of controversial results in clinical trials, the effects of macrolides on cardiovascular diseases are still to be elucidated. It has been reported that MMP activity is upregulated in various cardiovascular diseases, such as myocarditis, cardiac transplant rejection and myocardial infarction. However, little is known about the effects of macrolides on cardiovascular diseases. We have reported that clarithromycin suppressed the development of myocarditis, cardiac rejection and myocardial ischemia using animal models. In this article, we reviewed the roles of MMPs in cardiovascular diseases and the effects of macrolides on the prevention of adverse tissue remodeling.
Different clinical features in patients with ankylosing spondylitis from southern and northern China
Authors: MA Hai‐jun , YIN Qing‐feng , HU Feng‐ping , GUO Ming‐hao , LIU Xiang‐dong , LIU Yun , XU Qing‐yu
Published: December 2011

Aims:  To describe clinical features of patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) from southern and northern China, and investigate the effects of onset age, gender and regional differences on disease phenotype.

Methods:  Totally 113 AS patients from southern China and 121 AS patients from northern China were analyzed retrospectively.

Results:  In southern and northern groups, low back pain was more frequent among initial symptoms (54.9% vs. 7.7%; 52.4% vs. 11.4%), while peripheral arthritis (15.7% vs. 35.9%; 22.2% vs. 68.6%) was less common in male adult AS (AAS) than in male juvenile AS (JAS) patients, respectively. Compared to those in the northern group, diagnostic delay was longer (7.3 vs. 3.5 years) and the prevalence of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐B27 was higher in the southern group (96.5% vs. 83.5%). Sacroiliitis grade 2 was more frequent (51.3% vs. 36.4%), while sacroiliitis grade 3 (32.7% vs. 53.7%), buttock pain (5.3% vs. 13.2%), knee (20.4% vs. 33.1%) and ankle (3.5% vs. 11.6%) arthritis were less frequent in the southern group. Diagnostic delay of southern JAS was longer than that of northern JAS regardless of gender. Both sacroiliitis grade 3 and peripheral arthritis were less frequent in southern male JAS than in northern male JAS. Diagnostic delay was longer, sacroiliitis grade 2 was more frequent, while sacroiliitis grade 3 was less frequent in southern male AAS than those in northern male AAS.

Conclusion:  Significant diagnostic delay and higher prevalence of HLA‐B27 were found in southern AS patients. The prevalence of buttock pain and peripheral arthritis at disease onset in northern AS was more frequent than in southern AS patients.
Normalized Dysfunctional Voiding Through Timed Voiding
Authors: LIU Ying‐Buh , CHANG Shang‐Jen , YANG Stephen Shei‐Dei
Published: December 2011

We report a 3‐year‐old girl with dysfunctional voiding, febrile urinary tract infection (UTI) and bladder over distention (BOD). After controlling UTI, repeat uroflowmetry depicted staccato flow pattern and postvoid residual (PVR) urine volume was >20 mL. Frequency/volume chart showed voided volume was frequently larger than >100% expected bladder capacity. BOD resulted in dysfunctional voiding and elevated PVR was impressed. Urotherapy with adequate fluids intake, and timed voiding to avoid BOD were taught. Subsequent frequency/volume chart disclosed that voided volume was not greater than 100% expected bladder capacity. Uroflowmetry curves were normalized and PVR decreased. Without prophylactic antibiotics, she was free of UTI for 12 months. Unfortunately, she held urine after attending kindergarten and got febrile UTI again. BOD was impressed and timed voiding was re‐initiated after resolution of UTI. She was free of UTI and antibiotics for another 15 months. Bladder over distension may be the cause of dysfunctional voiding, vesicoureteral reflux and UTI. Through timed voiding, BOD may be reversed and UTI may be prevented.
Involvement of remnant spleen volume on the progression of steatohepatitis in diet‐induced obese rats after a splenectomy
Authors: Inoue Megumi , Gotoh Koro , Seike Masataka , Masaki Takayuki , Oribe Junya , Honda Koichi , Kakuma Tetsuya , Yoshimatsu Hironobu
Published: December 2011

Aim:  This study investigated the correlation between remnant spleen volume after splenectomy (SPX) and the degree of hepatic steatosis and/or inflammation.

Methods:  Male Sprague–Dawley rats were fed HF food and divided into three groups: sham‐operation (Sham) group, a hemisplenectomy (H‐SPX) group, and a total‐splenectomy (T‐SPX) group. Serum was collected and livers removed 12 weeks after surgery. We measured serum lipid markers and evaluated liver changes by comparing the three groups. Additionally, we examined liver changes 24 weeks after SPX.

Results:  Serum triglyceride and free fatty acid levels after SPX were higher than those of sham controls, and a significant difference was found between T‐SPX and the other groups (P < 0.05 for each). Increased intrahepatic fat accumulation was shown in SPX rats along with lower residual spleen volume; this fat accumulation after SPX was accelerated in rats at 24 weeks. Additionally, liver inflammatory changes, including an increase in the Kupffer cell population and pro‐inflammatory cytokine production, as well as a high level of oxidative stress, were observed in the liver sections from SPX rats, which correlated significantly with less volume of the residual spleen. Also, an increase in pro‐inflammatory cytokine content and a decrease in anti‐inflammatory cytokine content were shown in the residual spleen from H‐SPX rats, as compared to those of sham controls (P < 0.05 for each).

Conclusion:  These results indicate the importance of preserving splenic tissue. This residual spleen may play an important role in preventing the progression from diet‐induced hepatic steatosis to steatohepatitis.
Pattern Studies of Strain Distributions for Detecting Pipe Wrinkling
Authors: Chou Z. L. , Cheng J. J. R. , Zhou J.
Published: December 2011

As both onshore and offshore pipeline constructions push further into higher risk terrains, such as geologically unstable terrain and the Arctic region, the risk of local buckling failure (wrinkling) for these buried pipelines has been increasing gradually. However, current methods used to prevent buried pipelines from buckling failure are expensive, time consuming, and unreliable. Therefore, to overcome these problems, a reliable method of predicting pipeline wrinkling is proposed. The method can provide active warning for pipeline wrinkling through a decision-making system (DMS). The DMS has been designed to identify strain distribution patterns and their development on critical pipe segments and detect the onset of pipe wrinkling. To create a reliable DMS, studies of the strain distribution patterns of line-pipes during pipe buckling are very important. In this paper, the strain distribution patterns of various line-pipes are presented. These line-pipes have different material and geometric properties, loading conditions, and manufacturing conditions. A total of 32 sets of experimental results and 72 sets of finite element analyses (FEA) along with parametric studies were included in the study. The study revealed significant behavioral characteristics of the strain distribution patterns during pipe buckling and important parameters affecting these strain patterns. For practical application, three thresholds of the strain distribution patterns are proposed. Furthermore, the optimal positions and spacing of the strain measurements for early detecting pipelines wrinkling are discussed as well.
Model-Order Reduction by Simultaneous Realization of Eigenvalues and Mode Shapes (SREM)
Authors: Fariborzi Fariborz , Bighamian Ramin , Mirdamadi Hamid Reza
Published: December 2011

In this paper, a unique technique “cost function” has been presented to simultaneously realize eigenvalues and mode shape vectors to attain a reduced model. Differential evolution algorithm has been utilized in order to numerically optimize the nonlinear cost function instead of the least squares solution of the characteristic equation of the system. The modal matrix is reduced by effective independence distribution vector (EIDV) method to remove the slave degrees of freedom and retain the master ones which have the most contribution in the system response. EIDV retains those degrees of freedom (DOFs) in such a way as to reserve the system information content, as much as possible. This procedure has been verified with some examples and good results have been obtained. It is shown that the algorithm has several advantages, e.g., the coupling between selected modes of full-order model will be attained to guarantee the stability of closed-loop system.
High Quality GaN Grown on Si(111) Using Fast Coalescence Growth
Authors: Luo Ruihong , Xiang Peng , Liu Minggang , Chen Tufu , He Zhiyuan , Fan Bingfeng , Zhao Yu , Xian Yulun , Wu Zhisheng , Jiang Hao , Wang Gang , Liu Yang , Zhang Baijun
Published: December 2011

In the paper, a fast coalescence growth is introduced to the epitaxial growth of GaN on silicon substrate. With the fast coalescence growth method, a thin low pressure GaN (LP-GaN) layer used as a function layer, the GaN film could coalesce quickly within a thin thickness, additionally, a smooth surface and high crystal quality could be achieved. With further investigation, it was found that the general GaN coalescence thickness was mainly influenced by the thickness and the growth pressure of the LP-GaN interlayer. And the LP-GaN interlayer has a critical thickness, if over the critical thickness, the crystal quality would degrade. At the same time, it is found that the GaN quality was not affected by the coalescence thickness with a thin LP-GaN interlayer under critical thickness.
Mg Doping Effect in Nonpolar a-Plane GaN
Authors: Song Keun Man , Kim Jong Min , Kim Chang Zoo , Kim Hogyoung
Published: December 2011

The properties of nonpolara-plane GaN layers grown with different Mg doping levels were investigated. With increasing the Mg flow rate, the hole concentration initially increased and then decreased, indicating the formation of compensation centers. The dominant photoluminescence (PL) emission at relatively low Mg doping levels is the blue luminescence (BL) band due to the donor-acceptor pair (DAP) transition with MgGaVN(deep donor) and MgGa(acceptor). In addition to the weak BL band, both the ultraviolet luminescence (UVL) and yellow luminescence (YL) bands are observed at higher Mg doping level. The UVL band, especially dominant at 10 K, can be related to bound excitonic emissions involving Mg-induced extended defects, whereas one or more mechanisms may contribute to the YL band.
Preparation and Characterization of X8R Fine-Grained Dielectric Ceramics
Authors: Yao Guofeng , Wang Xiaohui , Gong Huiling , Wen Hai , Li Longtu
Published: December 2011

Fine-grained BaTiO3-based nonreducible ceramics were obtained by a conventional mixing method and the dielectric and electrical properties were characterized. The average grain size was less than 200 nm. The materials provided a dielectric constant of 1300 and satisfied the Electronic Industries Association (EIA) X8R specification. Fine-grained ceramics showed a better performance under a direct current (DC) field at high temperatures, compared with coarse-grained ceramics. Impedance analysis was conducted to determine the activation energy and to evaluate the ionic transference number. Moreover, capacitance variation under a DC field was also largely improved for fine-grained ceramics and relative mechanisms were examined.
Extreme Ultraviolet Resist Fabricated Using Water Wheel-Like Cyclic Oligomer with Pendant Adamantyl Ester Groups
Authors: Seki Hiroyuki , Kudo Hiroto , Oizumi Hiroaki , Itani Toshiro , Nishikubo Tadatomi
Published: December 2011

The synthesis and properties of water wheel-like cyclic oligomer (noriaPY) derivatives (noriaPY-ADs) with pendant adamantyl ester (AD) groups were examined for their application as extreme ultraviolet (EUV) resist materials. NoriaPY-ADs with various degrees of introduction (DI values) of AD groups were synthesized by adjusting the reactant feed ratios and reaction concentration. Solubility, film-forming property, and thermal stability were consistent with differences in DI values. The patterning properties of noriaPY-AD25 (DI= 25%) were examined in an EUV resist system, and noriaPY-AD25 provided a clear line-and-space pattern with 30 nm resolution and a line width roughness (LWR) of 11.3 nm.
Small-Molecule-Based Organic Photovoltaic Devices Covering Visible and Near-Infrared Absorption through Phase Transition of Titanylphthalocyanine Induced by Solvent Exposure
Authors: Obata Naoki , Sato Yoshiharu , Nakamura Eiichi , Matsuo Yutaka
Published: December 2011

Small-molecule p–n heterojunction organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices with a two-component donor layer composed of tetrabenzoporphyrin (BP) and titanyl phthalocyanine (TiOPc) can utilize near-infrared (NIR) light up to 950 nm and shows a 2.4% power conversion efficiency (PCE) (J
sc = 7.7 mA/cm2; open circuit voltage, V
oc = 0.61 V; and fill factor, FF= 0.50) under AM1.5G illumination at an intensity of 100 mW/cm2. This value is higher than the 2.0% value obtained by an archetypal device composed of a single-component BP layer. The device performance was improved by the exposure of the TiOPc layer to toluene, which induced a rapid change in the morphology of the TiOPc layer from what is called Phase I to Phase II. The acceptor layer comprising 1,4-bis(dimethyl-phenylsilylmethyl)[60]fullerene (SIMEF) showed higher V
oc and PCE than that comprising popular PCBM, because the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) level of SIMEF is higher than that of PCBM.
Effect of Charge Carrier Transport Property and Energy Level of Host Material on Phosphorescent White Organic Light-Emitting Device
Authors: Lei Xia , Yu Junsheng , Zhang Lei , Ma Zhu , Jiang Yadong
Published: December 2011

Phosphorescent white organic light-emitting devices (PhWOLEDs) with a double emitting layer (EML) structure were fabricated. The EMLs were doped with blue and yellow phosphors of iridium(III) bis[4,6-(difluorophenyl)-pyridinato-N,C2'] picolinate and [2-(4-tert-butylphenyl)benzothiazolato-N,C2'] iridium (acetylacetonate). Comparing the performance of PhWOLEDs with the host of yellow EML varying from p- to n-type materials, the results showed that the PhWOLED fabricated with 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (BPhen) as the yellow host had the highest performance, exhibiting a peak current efficiency of 31.7 cd/A, a peak power efficiency of 17.1 lm/W, and the Commission Internationale del'Eclairage coordinates of (0.33, 0.41) at a bias of 9 V. The enhancement was attributed to the improved charge carrier balance, broadened recombination region, and adequate energy levels between the BPhen host and the dopants, which made distinct roles for the dopants to effectively harvest the charge carriers.
Evaluation of Soft X-ray Laser with In situ Imaging Device of High Spatial Resolution ZnO Scintillator
Authors: Nakazato Tomoharu , Shimizu Toshihiko , Yamanoi Kohei , Sakai Kohei , Takeda Kohei , Nishi Ryosuke , Minami Yuki , Cadatal-Raduban Marilou , Sarukura Nobuhiko , Nishimura Hiroaki , Azechi Hiroshi , Fukuda Tsuguo , Tanaka Momoko , Nishikino Masaharu , Kawachi Tetsuya
Published: December 2011

We demonstrate the potential of a hydrothermal method-grown ZnO as a high-spatial resolution imaging device for in-situ soft X-ray laser diagnostics by characterizing the exciton emission patterns. By plotting the emission pattern radii at each position, we estimated the evolution of the beam radius around the focal point. The beam profile of the Ni-like Ag ion plasma laser was estimated from the waist radii as 29 and 21 µm, the divergence angle as 7.2 and 11 mrad and the M
2 factor as 47 and 50 in the horizontal- and vertical-axis, respectively. Spatial resolution of the magnifier was estimated to be 6 µm and is expected to improve by optimizing the optics of the magnifier and using a telescope. Our results would enhance the use of ZnO as an imaging device that would play a crucial role in the development and application of soft X-ray light sources.
Realization of Fast Rabi Oscillations in Radio Frequency Magnetic Resonance of Ground Zeeman States of 40Ca+
Authors: Ohno Takao , Uchida Kensuke , Haze Shinsuke , Toyoda Kenji , Urabe Shinji
Published: December 2011

We excited a transition between ground-state Zeeman sublevels in 40Ca+ using a radio frequency (RF) magnetic field. We discuss methods for generating an RF magnetic field of sufficiently large amplitude and for estimating the amplitude of the RF field to observe Rabi oscillations with high Rabi frequencies. A maximum Rabi frequency of ∼250 kHz was obtained. We also demonstrate a simple quantum gate operation on a combined system using the S1/2–D5/2 transition in 40Ca+.
Mobility Improvement in C60-Based Field-Effect Transistors Using LiF/Ag Source/Drain Electrodes
Authors: Cai Xinyang , Yu Junsheng , Zhou Jianlin , Yu Xinge , Jiang Yadong
Published: December 2011

Fullerene (C60)-based organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) were fabricated using lithium fluoride (LiF)/silver (Ag) as source/drain electrodes. Field-effect mobility increased from 2.74 to 5.07 cm2 V-1 s-1 after modifying single Ag electrodes with the proper thickness of LiF layer. Meanwhile, the contact resistance could be reduced from 25 to 10 kΩ. The performance improvement of the OFETs was attributed to the realignment of the energy band, which could reduce the charge carrier injection barrier at the C60/Ag interface. Moreover, the electronic tunneling enhancement was also analyzed in detail to discuss the effect of the LiF layer.