bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tax‐avoidance strategies of American multinationals: an empirical analysis
Authors: Schwarz Peter
Published: April 2009

This paper analyzes the opportunities of American multinationals to reallocate their profits into tax havens. In contrast to previous papers, a comprehensive look on the profit‐shifting process is undertaken by proposing three different tests. Multinationals in high‐tax countries have a lower equity ratio than affiliates in tax havens, indicating that income is shifted by extensively financing subsidiaries in high‐tax countries with debt. Furthermore, the share of retained earnings is lower in high‐tax countries owing to the unattractiveness of tax deferral. When testing for the outcomes of profit shifting, the results show that the pre‐tax profitability of American multinationals is higher in tax havens. This relationship is consistent with the opportunities of multinationals to shift income outside high‐tax jurisdictions. Finally, the paper shows that profit shifting largely takes place into tax havens, whereas other countries do not benefit from profit‐shifting activities. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of the water/cement ratio on concrete behavior under extreme loading
Authors: Vu Xuan Hong , Malecot Yann , Daudeville Laurent , Buzaud Eric
Published: April 2009

This study focuses on identifying concrete behavior under severe triaxial loadings (near field detonation or ballistic impacts). In order to reproduce high stress levels with well‐controlled loading paths, static tests have been carried out on concrete samples by mean of a very high‐capacity triaxial press (stress levels on the order of 1 GPa). It is a longstanding fact that the water/cement ratio (W/C), upon entering the concrete composition, is a major parameter affecting the porosity and strength of the cement matrix of hardened concrete. The objective of this article is to quantify the effect of this ratio on concrete behavior under conditions of high confinement. From the composition of a reference ‘ordinary’ concrete (i.e. W/C=0.6), two other concretes have been produced with W/C ratios equal to 0.4 and 0.8, respectively. This article presents experimental results and their analysis regarding the effect of water/cement ratio (W/C) on concrete behavior under high confinement. It shows that when placed under high confinement, concrete behaves like a granular stacking composed of concrete without any influence from the level of cement matrix strength. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantification of J‐resolved proton spectra in two‐dimensions with LCModel using GAMMA‐simulated basis sets at 4 Tesla
Authors: Jensen J. Eric , Licata Stephanie C. , Öngür Dost , Friedman Seth D. , Prescot Andrew P. , Henry Michael E. , Renshaw Perry F.
Published: April 2009

A two‐dimensional, J‐resolved magnetic resonance spectroscopic extraction approach was developed employing GAMMA‐simulated, LCModel basis‐sets. In this approach, a two‐dimensional J‐resolved (2D‐JPRESS) dataset was resolved into a series of one‐dimensional spectra where each spectrum was modeled and fitted with its theoretically customized LCModel template. Metabolite levels were derived from the total integral across the J‐series of spectra for each metabolite. Phantoms containing physiologic concentrations of the major brain chemicals were used for validation. Varying concentrations of glutamate and glutamine were evaluated at and around their accepted in vivo concentrations in order to compare the accuracy and precision of our method with 30 ms PRESS. We also assessed 2D‐JPRESS and 30 ms PRESS in vivo, in a single voxel within the parieto‐occipital cortex by scanning ten healthy volunteers once and a single healthy volunteer over nine repeated measures. Phantom studies demonstrated that serial fitting of 2D‐JPRESS spectra with simulated LCModel basis sets provided accurate concentration estimates for common metabolites including glutamate and glutamine. Our in vivo results using 2D‐JPRESS suggested superior reproducibility in measuring glutamine and glutamate relative to 30 ms PRESS. These novel methods have clear implications for clinical and research studies seeking to understand neurochemical dysfunction. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the assessment of cerebrovascular reactivity using hypercapnia BOLD MRI
Authors: Yezhuvath Uma S. , Lewis‐Amezcua Kelly , Varghese Rani , Xiao Guanghua , Lu Hanzhang
Published: April 2009

Cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) reflects the capacity of blood vessels to dilate and is an important marker for brain vascular reserve. It may provide a useful addition to the traditional baseline blood flow measurement when assessing vascular factors in brain disorders. Blood‐oxygenation‐level‐dependent MRI under CO2 inhalation offers a non‐invasive and quantitative means to estimate CVR in humans. In this study, we investigated several important methodological aspects of this technique with the goal of optimizing the experimental and data processing strategies for clinical use. Comparing 4 min of 5% CO2 inhalation (less comfortable) to a 1 min inhalation (more comfortable) duration, it was found that the CVR values were 0.31 ± 0.05%/mmHg (N = 11) and 0.31 ± 0.08%/mmHg (N = 9), respectively, showing no significant differences between the two breathing paradigms. Therefore, the 1 min paradigm is recommended for future application studies for patient comfort and tolerability. Furthermore, we have found that end‐tidal CO2 recording was useful for accurate quantification of CVR because it provided both timing and amplitude information regarding the input function to the brain vascular system, which can be subject‐dependent. Finally, we show that inter‐subject variations in CVR are of physiologic origin and affect the whole brain in a similar fashion. Based on this, it is proposed that relative CVR (normalized against the CVR of the whole brain or a reference tissue) may be a more sensitive biomarker than absolute CVR in clinical applications as it minimizes inter‐subject variations. With these technological optimizations, CVR mapping may become a useful method for studies of neurological and psychiatric diseases. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Template‐free microsphere and hollow sphere formation of polymethylanilines
Authors: İçli Merve , Önal Ahmet M , Cihaner Atilla
Published: April 2009

BACKGROUND: Microsphere and/or hollow sphere formation of methyl‐substituted polyaniline derivatives was investigated via chemical polymerization where different sets of conditions were examined. It was found that a variety of parameters (e.g. types and concentrations of monomer and oxidant, polymerization time, solvent with and without acid) have a crucial influence on the morphology of the resulting polyaniline derivatives.

RESULTS: Structures with desired morphologies (with or without microspheres and hollow spheres) may be obtained in a controlled manner by changing the parameters. Moreover, the electrochemical and optical properties of the polymers in the presence of acid and/or base were investigated via cyclic voltammetry and UV‐visible and electron spin resonance spectroscopic techniques. It is noteworthy that the morphologies of microspheres and/or hollow spheres remained unchanged after repeated acid and base treatments.

CONCLUSION: Micro/hollow spherical structures were successfully prepared via chemical polymerization of various substituted anilines by using ammonium persulfate as oxidant. It was found that the type of oxidant and monomers along with the polymerization time are quite important factors for the formation of micro/hollow spheres. Furthermore, hydrogen bond formation does not play any crucial role for the formation of these spheres. Chemically and electrochemically doped/dedoped states of microspheres and/or hollow spheres are very sensitive, and give rapid response towards vapours of HCl and NH3, which makes them amenable for use in sensors. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Solar‐tracking PV plants in Navarra: A 10 MW assessment
Authors: García Miguel , Vera Jose A. , Marroyo Luis , Lorenzo Eduardo , Pérez Miguel
Published: April 2009

Currently, the know‐how and experience concerning the behavior and reliability of large tracking photovoltaic (PV) plants is scarce. Information such as the availability rate is rarely known. Acciona Solar PV plants installed in Navarra (Spain) in the frame of the Spanish utility grid constitute a representative source of information. The scope of this study is to analyze in detail the behavior along 2006 of six of these plants, located in Arguedas (two plants of a rated nominal power of 940 kWp and 2·1 MWp, respectively), Sesma (1·12 MWp), Cintruénigo (1·44 MWp), Rada (1·78 MWp), and Castejón (2·64 MWp). In our analysis, the influence of each type of energy loss affecting the plants has been quantified; and the advantages of dedicating human resources to the surveillance and maintenance of a limited number of generators have been stated. Thanks to the work of the operators, the plants registered mean availability rates above 99·7%. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Embryonic stem cells derived from somatic cloned and fertilized blastocysts are post‐transcriptionally indistinguishable: A MicroRNA and protein profile comparison
Authors: Ding Junjun , Guo Yuanbiao , Liu Sheng , Yan Yujuan , Chang Gang , Kou Zhaohui , Zhang Yu , Jiang Ying , He Fuchu , Gao Shaorong , Sang Jianli
Published: April 2009

Therapeutic cloning, whereby somatic cell nuclear transfer is used to generate customized embryonic stem cells (NT‐ES) from differentiated somatic cells of specific individuals, has been successfully performed in mice and non‐human primates. Safety concerns have prevented this technology from being potentially applied to humans, as severely abnormal phenotypes have been observed in cloned animals. Although it has been demonstrated that the transcriptional profiles and developmental potentials of ES cells derived from cloned blastocysts are identical to those of ES cells derived from fertilized blastocysts (F‐ES), a systematic analysis of the post‐transcriptional profiles of NT‐ES cell lines has not yet been performed. To investigate whether NT‐ES cells are comparable to F‐ES cells post‐transcriptionally, we compared the microRNA and protein profiles of five NT‐ and matching F‐ES cell lines by microRNA microarray, 2‐D DIGE and bioinformatic analyses. Stem‐loop real‐time PCR and MS/MS assays were further performed to verify the expression of specific microRNAs and characterize differentially expressed proteins. Our results demonstrate that the ES cell lines derived from cloned and fertilized mouse blastocysts have highly similar microRNA and protein expression profiles, consistent with their similar developmental potentials and transcriptional profiles.
Virtual Team Concepts in Projects: A Case Study
Authors: Kuruppuarachchi Palitha R.
Published: April 2009

This article uses a case study to demonstrate the application of virtual team concepts in a virtual project team formed from existing personnel within an organization. The article is presented as a literature review followed by a case study of a virtual team project entitled the “Country Capital Works Program” undertaken within the New South Wales Police Force, Australia. The case confirms the appropriateness of existing virtual team concepts in a virtual project team formed from existing personnel for a specific purpose. The study has the inherent limitations of any case study in terms of the generalization of the findings.
Redox initiator systems for emulsion polymerization of acrylates
Authors: Kohut‐Svelko Nicolas , Pirri Rosangela , Asua José M. , Leiza Jose R.
Published: April 2009

The performance of different redox initiator couples to initiate the emulsion polymerization of butyl acrylate at low temperature (40–50 °C) was investigated in both batch and seeded semibatch polymerizations. Polymerizations were carried out mimicking industrial conditions, that is, technical grade monomer and no N2 purging was used during the polymerizations. The redox systems used contained as oxidants persulfates or hydroperoxides and as reducing agents ascorbic acid, formaldehyde sulfoxilate (SFS), tetramethyl ethylene diamine (TMEDA), Bruggolit 6 and 7 (FF6 and FF7), and sodium metabisulfites. Batch experiments showed that for systems using persulfates, the ammonium persulfate (APS)/TMEDA system provided the lower induction period and higher conversion, whereas for the systems with hydroperoxide oxidants, tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP)/FF7, TBHP/SFS, and H2O2/FF7 were the best alternatives. When these selected systems were used in seeded semibatch experiments of BA with allyl methacrylate, it was found that to obtain similar kinetics and microstructure (gel content and crosslinking density) than in case of using a thermal initiator at 80 °C, the polymerization could be run at 40 °C if the reactor was purged with N2. Alternatively, in absence of N2 polymerization, temperature should be increased to 50 °C and initiator concentration increased. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 2917–2927, 2009
Synthesis of block and star copolymers by photoinduced radical coupling process
Authors: Temel Gokhan , Aydogan Binnur , Arsu Nergis , Yagci Yusuf
Published: April 2009

The general design for the synthesis of AB diblock, and A2B and AB2 star copolymers based on the statistical coupling of poly(styrene) (PSt) and poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) macromolecules containing photoreactive benzophenone is presented. For this purpose, mono‐ and bifunctional initiators for Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization (ATRP) bearing benzophenone group were synthesized and characterized. End‐ and mid‐chain benzophenone functional PSt and PMMA with low molecular weights were obtained by ATRP using these initiators in the presence of CuBr/N,N,N′,N″,N″‐pentamethyldiethylenetriamine (PMDETA) catalytic complex. Poly(styrene‐block‐methyl methacrylate) (PSt‐b‐PMMA) copolymers were prepared by photolysis of the solutions containing end functional PSt and PMMA in THF at λ = 350 nm for 60 min in the presence of a hydrogen donor such as N‐methyldiethanolamine (NMDEA). The proposed mechanism assumes hydrogen abstraction of photoexcited benzophenone moiety by NMDEA. Ketyl radicals resulting from abstraction reaction undergo radical‐radical coupling to form benzpinacol structure at the core. Formation of A2B and AB2 type star copolymers upon irradiation of solutions containing appropriate combinations of end‐ and mid‐chain functional polymers was also demonstrated. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 2938–2947, 2009
A theoretical analysis of rheodielectric response of type‐A polymer chains
Authors: Uneyama Takashi , Masubuchi Yuichi , Horio Kazushi , Matsumiya Yumi , Watanabe Hiroshi , Pathak Jai A. , Roland C. Michael
Published: April 2009

For type‐A polymer chains having type‐A dipoles parallel along the chain backbone (such as cis‐polyisoprene), a theoretical analysis was conducted for the rheodielectric response to relate this response to the chain dynamics. The rheodielectric response in the shear gradient direction (y direction) under steady shear was analyzed on the basis of a Langevin equation. It turned out that the relaxation time is exactly the same for the rheodielectric relaxation function and the end‐to‐end vector autocorrelation function defined in the shear gradient direction and that the relaxation mode distribution also coincides for these functions at least up to second order of the shear rate (corresponding to the lowest order of nonlinearities of these functions). Consequently, the Green‐Kubo theorem holds satisfactorily, and the rheodielectric intensity is proportional to the squared chain size in y direction, 〈R〉, averaged over the time‐independent conformational distribution function under steady shear. The situation is more complicated under large amplitude oscillatory strain (LAOS) because the conformational distribution function fLAOS is synchronized with LAOS to oscillate at the LAOS frequency, Ω. The rheodielectric response under LAOS was found to detect this oscillation of fLAOS being coupled with the oscillation of the electric field, E(t) = E0sin ωt, and thus, split into a series of components oscillating at frequencies ω and ω ± βΩ (β = 1, 2, …). Consequently, the rheodielectric intensity under LAOS, evaluated from the component oscillating at ω, is no longer proportional to 〈R〉. However, the relative mode distribution and relaxation time of this component can be directly related to those of the end‐to‐end vector correlation averaged over a nonoscillatory part of fLAOS. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 1039–1057, 2009
Feasibility of Extending Rainbow Refractometry to Small Particles Using Femtosecond Laser Pulses
Authors: Bakic Saša , Xu Feng , Damaschke Nils , Tropea Cameron
Published: April 2009

Rainbow refractometry has been investigated numerically for small droplets under ultrashort pulse illumination. Using Fourier Lorenz–Mie Theory, local maxima of the scattering function were investigated as a function of the scattering angle, particle size and refractive index. The primary rainbow was shown to be detectable for pulse lengths as short as 10 fs and free of interferences with other scattering orders for droplet diameters down to 5 μm. An extension of the Generalized Lorenz–Mie Theory was used to obtain an estimation of the influence of nonsphericity on refractive index detection. Overall, the possibility of improved in situ temperature measurements with Rainbow refractometry for small particles was shown to be feasible.
Analysis of a Simple Test Device for Tribo‐Electric Charging of Bulk Powders
Authors: Šupuk Enes , Seiler Christian , Ghadiri Mojtaba
Published: April 2009

We have developed a simple device to characterise the tribo‐electric charging propensity of powders. A sample of around one gram of powder is shaken in a container by reciprocal strokes in a horizontal direction. The electric charge on the powder is quantified by a Faraday cup before and after shaking. In this paper, we analyse the operation of this simple test device by investigating the behaviour of α‐lactose monohydrate (α‐LM), hydroxy propyl cellulose (HPC) and a 50 : 50 binary mixture (by mass) of these two powders with various container surfaces commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry. The experiments are carried out in controlled environmental conditions and using different shaking times and frequencies of 10, 20 and 30 Hz. The experimental results show that the saturated charge is independent of the shaking frequency. Furthermore adhered particles coating the inner surface of the shaking container decrease the net amount of charge generated by up to 50 %.
A Comparative Study on PSD Models for Chromite Ores Comminuted by Different Devices
Authors: Taşdemir Adem , Taşdemir Tuba
Published: April 2009

The objective of this study was to characterize the particle size distributions (PSDs) of chromite ores comminuted by different devices, i.e., subjected to different breakage modes and to compare the performances of the PSD functions selected. Different PSDs were obtained for five different mineralogical samples of chromite ores by jaw, cone and hammer crushing and ball mill grinding. The PSDs of the products were characterized to find the most suitable model by Gates–Gaudin–Schuhmann (GGS) and Rosin–Rammler (RR) functions. It was found that the PSDs of all chromite types in single‐pass devices, i.e., jaw and cone crushing were better described by the GGS model than RR model. The RR model gave the best results for all ore sample PSDs generated by retention type systems, i.e., hammer crushing and ball mill grinding. Both distribution functions gave higher R2 values as the size distribution became uniform. The results of piecewise regression were found very useful to improve the performance of GGS distribution in terms of correlation coefficients for samples from a hammer crusher and ball mill.
The perceptions of Athenian physiotherapists on the referral service in Greece and its impact on professional autonomy
Authors: Chanou Konstantina , Sellars Julie
Published: April 2009

Background and Purpose. The attainment of professional autonomy is considered a priority of any profession. The development of autonomy in physiotherapy has differed among countries, with some achieving a high degree of autonomy while others have struggled. The current literature reveals little about the autonomy of physiotherapists in Greece, although it would appear they face both external and internal threats to autonomous practice and to the development of their profession. This exploratory study investigated Athenian physiotherapists' experiences of the referral system in Greece and its impact on professional autonomy. Methods. A qualitative, phenomenological approach was chosen, using a cluster sampling method. Ten physiotherapists participated in a 30‐minute, one‐to‐one, semi‐structured interview. The interview audio tapes were transcribed and an inductive analysis was carried out. When all transcripts had been coded, categories and themes were compared to record commonalities and differences to construct a hierarchy of essential themes expressing general views. Results. Physiotherapists were frustrated by the physiotherapy referral system in Greece. They revealed that their practice was restricted by factors, which included a long‐standing dominance by the medical profession, bureaucratic process and the public perception of the profession in addition to restrictions from within the profession itself. To overcome the perceived restrictions to practice and the development of autonomy, participants had adopted strategies in an attempt to effectively address the patients' needs. Conclusions. There are clear issues related to the management and delivery of the physiotherapy referral system in Greece which impact on professional autonomy. Physiotherapists are forced to manipulate the referral system to provide a more appropriate level of care, resulting, however, in an inequitable service across the physiotherapy provision. If professional autonomy of physiotherapists in Greece is to move forward, these issues need to be acknowledged by governmental and professional bodies, as therapists can not be expected to undertake this journey alone. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
TENS and FES for sensory impairment and gait dysfunction following removal of spinal cord ependymoma — a case report
Authors: Donnellan Clare P. , Caldwell Kate
Published: April 2009

Background. Sensory deficits are commonly reported following the resection of spinal cord tumours. The use of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) as augmented sensory input is described in the research literature but rarely in the clinical literature. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is used for people with motor impairments rather than sensory impairments. Method and results. This case report describes the use of TENS and FES for a patient with severe sensory loss and mild weakness in the right leg following the removal of an intramedullary spinal cord tumour. The patient was able to walk more quickly and more confidently when using TENS and FES in combination. She consistently reported greater benefits from TENS alone compared to FES alone and continued to use TENS delivered via a sock electrode at six months after surgery. Conclusion. The use of TENS as a sensory stimulus was an invaluable component of this patient's treatment, allowing her to engage in a more challenging balance and gait programme at an earlier stage in her rehabilitation. Combining FES with TENS was also useful and allowed treatment to address motor and sensory impairments concurrently during functional activity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevalence, risk factors and preventive strategies in work‐related musculoskeletal disorders among Israeli physical therapists
Authors: Rozenfeld Vitaly , Ribak Joseph , Danziger Josepha , Tsamir Judith , Carmeli Eli
Published: April 2009

Background and Purpose. Although physical therapists (PTs) have extensive knowledge of body mechanisms and injury prevention, work‐related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD) are quite common in this population. The purposes of this study were: to determine the prevalence and impact of WRMD among Israeli PTs; to investigate WRMD risk factors and to identify preventive strategies used by PTs; and to compare the risk of injuries in two professional settings: rehabilitation centres (RCs) and outpatient clinics (OPCs). Method. A validated, modified Cromie questionnaire, translated into Hebrew, was distributed to the PTs at their workplaces. The relationship between WRMD symptoms and professional settings was analysed by Pearson chi‐square. The risk models were developed by logistic regression. One hundred and twelve PTs working in OPCs and RCs who defined themselves as healthy individuals were the subjects of this study. Results. Lifetime prevalence of WRMD was 83%. The highest prevalence of WRMD was in the lower back area (80%). Rehabilitation treatment was associated with an increased risk of lower back (odds ratio [OR] = 1.05) and shoulder symptoms (OR = 1.04); manual treatment was associated with an increased risk of wrist/thumb symptoms (OR = 1.11). Discussion. Work in RCs was associated with an increased prevalence of lower back/shoulder symptoms, whereas work in OPCs was associated with an increased prevalence of thumb/wrist symptoms. PT's used different strategies to reduce risk of WRMD, including altering practice technique. The respondents recommended administrative and ergonomic changes in the workplace. Conclusion. Workplace‐specific interventions to reduce WRMD in PTs should be developed and tested in future studies. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐throughput screening of optimal solution conditions for structural biological studies by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy
Authors: Sugiki Toshihiko , Yoshiura Chie , Kofuku Yutaka , Ueda Takumi , Shimada Ichio , Takahashi Hideo
Published: April 2009

Protein aggregation is an essential molecular event in a wide variety of biological situations, and is a causal factor in several degenerative diseases. The aggregation of proteins also frequently hampers structural biological analyses, such as solution NMR studies. Therefore, precise detection and characterization of protein aggregation are of crucial importance for various research fields. In this study, we demonstrate that fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) using a single‐molecule fluorescence detection system enables the detection of otherwise invisible aggregation of proteins at higher protein concentrations, which are suitable for structural biological experiments, and consumes relatively small amounts of protein over a short measurement time. Furthermore, utilizing FCS, we established a method for high‐throughput screening of protein aggregation and optimal solution conditions for structural biological experiments.
Selenomethionine incorporation in proteins expressed in Lactococcus lactis
Authors: Berntsson Ronnie P.‐A. , Alia Oktaviani Nur , Fusetti Fabrizia , Thunnissen Andy‐Mark W. H. , Poolman Bert , Slotboom Dirk‐Jan
Published: April 2009

Lactococcus lactis is a promising host for (membrane) protein overproduction. Here, we describe a protocol for incorporation of selenomethionine (SeMet) into proteins expressed in L. lactis. Incorporation efficiencies of SeMet in the membrane protein complex OpuA (an ABC transporter) and the soluble protein OppA, both from L. lactis, were monitored by mass spectrometry. Both proteins incorporated SeMet with high efficiencies (>90%), which greatly extends the usefulness of the expression host L. lactis for X‐ray crystallography purposes. The crystal structure of ligand‐free OppA was determined at 2.4 Å resolution by a semiautomatic approach using selenium single‐wavelength anomalous diffraction phasing.
Total chemical synthesis of the D2 domain of human VEGF receptor 1
Authors: Goncalves Victor , Gautier Benoit , Huguenot Florent , Leproux Pascale , Garbay Christiane , Vidal Michel , Inguimbert Nicolas
Published: April 2009

The interaction of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) with its cellular receptors exerts a central role in the regulation of angiogenesis. Among these receptors, the VEGF receptor 1 may be implicated in pathological angiogenesis. Here, we report the first total chemical synthesis of the VEGF‐binding domain of the VEGF receptor 1. Aggregation issues were overcome by the use of a low‐substituted resin and the stepwise introduction of pseudoproline dipeptides and Dmb‐glycines. The folding of the protein was achieved by air oxidation and its biological activity was verified on ELISA‐based assays. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative study of transport properties of compressively strained epitaxial and polycrystalline La0.88Sr0.12MnO3 thin films
Authors: Prasad Ravikant , Singh Mangala Prasad , Prellier Wilfred , Siwach Praveen Kumar , Rawat Rajiv , Kaur Amarjeet , Singh Hari Krishana
Published: April 2009

We report a comparative study of the magnetoelectrical properties of epitaxial and polycrystalline thin films of lightly doped manganite La0.88Sr0.12MnO3 (LSMO). The LSMO thin films are deposited on single‐crystal LaAlO3 (LAO/(100)) and yttria‐stabilized ZrO2 (ZO/(100)) substrates by on‐axis DC magnetron sputtering from high‐density targets prepared by a wet chemical route. Films deposited on LAO (6 nm and 35 nm thick) are epitaxial and AFM investigations show clean surface morphology. In contrast, films on ZO (20 nm and 35 nm) are polycrystalline. Small variation in grain size is seen in the surface morphology of films on ZO. Both 6 nm and 35 nm thick films on LAO show sharp I–M transitions around the TC with TIM being 275 K and 285 K, respectively. The TIM of films on ZO is drastically suppressed as compared to the same for films on LAO. The large enhancement in TC and hence TIM of LSMO films on LAO has been explained in terms of the compressive strain arising due to the mismatch between the lattice parameters of LAO and LSMO. The absence of such strain in LSMO films on ZO accounts for the lower TIM values. The LSMO/LAO films also show large magnetoresistance only in the vicinity of the TIM and it decreases strongly on lowering and increasing the temperature. In contrast, the LSMO/ ZO films show relatively lower MR spreading over a wider temperature range. The electrical transport of all the films, both in the PM as well as the FM regions have been analyzed in the framework of several models and the suitability of each model has been discussed. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Bound states in the continuum in electronic transport through parallel‐coupled quantum‐dot structures
Authors: Han Yu , Gong Weijiang , Wei Guozhu
Published: April 2009

The occurrence of bound states in continuum (BICs) are theoretically studied, by investigating the electronic transport through coupled quantum‐dot structures (a quantum‐dot chain and a quantum‐dot ring) embodied in an Aharonov–Bohm interferometer. It is found that for the structure of a quantum‐dot chain, the BICs will come into being only under the condition of the same‐numbered quantum dots coupled to the quantum dots in the arms of the interferometer. But with respect to the quantum‐dot ring, the occurrence of BICs is remarkable, independent of the number of quantum dots in the ring. Furthermore, by the presence of an appropriate magnetic flux through the interferometer, the linear conductance spectrum of the (2n + 1)‐quantum‐dot ring (n ∈ integer) is the same as that of the 2n ‐quantum‐dot chain, on account of the occurrence of BICs in electron transport through these two kinds of systems. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Structural transformations and magnetic properties of Bi1–xLnx FeO3 (Ln = La, Nd, Eu) multiferroics
Authors: Troyanchuk I. O. , Bushinsky M. V. , Karpinsky D. V. , Mantytskaya O. S. , Fedotova V. V. , Prochnenko O. I.
Published: April 2009

Crystal structures of Bi1–x Lnx FeO3 systems (Ln = La, Nd, Eu) are studied using X‐ray and neutron diffraction, magnetization measurements as well as electron microscopy. It was shown that the unit cell of the Bi1–x Lax FeO3 system is described with the R3c space group in the concentration interval 0 < x < 0.15, with the space group Imma (0.4 < x < 0.5) and with the Pnma at x > 0.5. The mixed‐phase state was observed in the range 0.15 < x < 0.4 independent of synthesis conditions. A similar sequence of the phase transformations was observed for Bi1–x Ndx FeO3 system. In the case of Bi1–x Eux FeO3 series the unit cell is rhombohedral (R3c) at x < 0.08 and orthorhombic (Pnma) at x > 0.20, whereas no evidence for Imma phase was found. The magnetization study has revealed the spontaneous magnetization to be associated with Pnma and Imma phases that do not allow conventional ferroelectricity. The ferroelectric R3c phase exhibits metamagnetic behavior due to transition from an incommensurately modulated antiferromagnetic state to a weak ferromagnetic state. Substitution of Bi3+ with Ln3+ leads to a strong decrease of external magnetic field inducing a metamagnetic transition. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Adaptive regulation in bimodal linear systems
Authors: Wu Zhizheng , Ben Amara Foued
Published: April 2009

This paper considers an adaptive regulation problem for switched bimodal linear systems where it is desired to achieve regulation against unknown sinusoidal exogenous inputs representing disturbance or reference signals. Switching among plant models as well as among disturbance and reference signals is defined according to a performance variable. The design of the proposed adaptive regulators involves two main steps. First, a set of observer‐based Q‐parameterized stabilizing controllers for the switched system is constructed, and a sufficient regulation condition for the resulting switched closed‐loop system is presented. Second, an adaptation algorithm is developed to tune the Q parameter in the expression of the parameterized controller and make it converge to the desired Q parameter that guarantees regulation for the switched system. The tuning of the Q parameter is performed to compensate for the lack of information on the properties of the sinusoidal
exogenous inputs. Finally, a numerical example is presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Robust filter design for piecewise discrete‐time systems with time‐varying delays
Authors: Mahmoud Magdi S. , Xia Yuanqing
Published: April 2009

A novel delay‐dependent filtering design approach is developed for a class of linear piecewise discrete‐time systems with convex‐bounded parametric uncertainties and time‐varying delays. The time‐delays appear in the state as well as the output and measurement channels. The filter has a linear full‐order structure and guarantees the desired estimation accuracy over the entire uncertainty polytope. The desired accuracy is assessed in terms of either ℋ︁∞‐performance or ℒ︁2–ℒ︁∞criteria. A new parametrization procedure based on a combined Finsler's Lemma and piecewise Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional is established to yield sufficient conditions for delay‐dependent filter feasibility. The filter gains are determined by solving a convex optimization problem over linear matrix inequalities. In comparison to the existing design methods, the developed methodology yields the least conservative measures since all previous overdesign limitations are almost eliminated. By means of simulation examples, the advantages of the developed technique are readily demonstrated. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of induction in learning to teach toward equity: A study of beginning science and mathematics teachers
Authors: Bianchini Julie A. , Brenner Mary E.
Published: April 2009

We investigated how an induction program supported and constrained beginning teachers' efforts to teach science or mathematics in equitable and effective ways. We focused our investigation on the teaching and learning of equitable instructional practices; we conceived of such practices as attention to students' experiences, instruction for English learners, differentiation, and reform‐minded science or mathematics strategies. During the 2005–2006 and 2006–2007 academic years, we examined the experiences of two beginning secondary teachers (one in science and one in mathematics) enrolled in a state‐mandated, K‐12 induction program. We conducted multiple interviews with our beginning teachers, their experienced mentors, and induction professionals; videotaped all 21 induction seminars and 4 series of lessons for each beginning teacher; and examined each teacher's 12 teaching performance assessment products. Qualitative analysis of data made visible the successes and struggles in using a K‐12 induction program to promote equitable science and mathematics instruction. Beginning teachers saw their induction program as contributing little to their learning to teach toward equity; they pointed to their previous teacher education experiences and current school communities as more powerful forces in shaping the ways they taught science or mathematics to all students. We close with recommendations for other teacher educators and induction professionals. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed 94:164–195, 2010
Estimation of incidences of infectious diseases based on antibody measurements
Authors: Simonsen J. , Mølbak K. , Falkenhorst G. , Krogfelt K. A. , Linneberg A. , Teunis P. F. M.
Published: April 2009

Owing to underascertainment it is difficult if not impossible to determine the incidence of a given disease based on cases notified to routine public health surveillance. This is especially true for diseases that are often present in mild forms as for example diarrhoea caused by foodborne bacterial infections. This study presents a Bayesian approach for obtaining incidence estimates by use of measurements of serum antibodies against Salmonella from a cross‐sectional study. By comparing these measurements with antibody measurements from a follow‐up study of infected individuals it was possible to estimate the time since last infection for each individual in the cross‐sectional study. These time estimates were then converted into incidence estimates. Information about the incidence of Salmonella infections in Denmark was obtained by using blood samples from 1780 persons. The estimated incidence was about 0.094 infections per person year. This number corresponds to 325 infections per culture‐confirmed case captured in the Danish national surveillance system. We present a novel approach, termed as seroincidence, that has potentials to compare the sensitivity of public health surveillance between different populations, countries and over time. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Joining and Interconnect Formation of Nanowires and Carbon Nanotubes for Nanoelectronics and Nanosystems
Authors: Cui Qingzhou , Gao Fan , Mukherjee Subhadeep , Gu Zhiyong
Published: April 2009

Interconnect formation is critical for the assembly and integration of nanocomponents to enable nanoelectronics‐ and nanosystems‐related applications. Recent progress on joining and interconnect formation of key nanomaterials, especially nanowires and carbon nanotubes, into functional circuits and/or prototype devices is reviewed. The nanosoldering technique through nanoscale lead‐free solders is discussed in more detail in this Review. Various strategies of fabricating lead‐free nanosolders and the utilization of the nanosoldering technique to form functional solder joints are reviewed, and related challenges facing the nanosoldering technique are discussed. A perspective is given for using lead‐free nanosolders and the nanosoldering technique for the construction of complex and/or hybrid nanoelectronics and nanosystems.

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Learning to recognize vulnerable patterns due to undesirable Zone‐3 relay operations
Authors: Yamashita Koji , Li Juan , Liu Chen‐Ching , Zhang Pei , Hofmann Michael
Published: April 2009

Undesirable zone 3 relay operations caused by unexpected loading conditions can contribute to the cascaded events, leading to catastrophic outages. Identifying the basic patterns of zone 3 relay operations in advance is an effective way to help prevent cascaded events. The postcontingency impedances seen by zone 3 relays can be calculated on line in a steady state security assessment framework. However, their accuracy is inadequate compared with the postcontingency apparent impedance obtained from off‐line time domain dynamic simulations. This paper proposes a fuzzy inference system (FIS) to correct discrepancies between the postcontingency apparent impedances obtained from the results of steady state security assessment and the corresponding values obtained by time‐domain simulations. The postcontingency apparent impedances obtained from the results of steady state security assessment can be corrected on line using correction terms provided by the FIS. The dynamic model of a 200‐bus system is used to validate the performance of the proposed FIS. Copyright © 2009 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Simplified 20‐µm pitch vertical interconnection process for 3D chip stacking
Authors: Sakuma Katsuyuki , Nagai Noriyasu , Saito Mikiko , Mizuno Jun , Shoji Shuichi
Published: April 2009

This paper describes a simplified vertical interconnection process for three‐dimensional (3D) chip stacking. The unique feature of this new process is that the conductive filling material in the through‐silicon‐vias (TSVs), the microbumps, and the interconnection materials are all fabricated in one processing stage. All of the steps can be performed with the same piece of equipment. Prototype chips with 20‐µm‐pitch vertical interconnections have been demonstrated successfully. By using this technique, 75‐µm deep high‐aspect‐ratio vias can be completely filled without voids using Ni electroplating and uniform 20‐µm‐pitch microbumps that are 4‐µm tall have been fabricated using Sn‐Cu electroplating. Copyright © 2009 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Design and fabrication of a differential capacitive three‐axis SOI accelerometer using vertical comb electrodes
Authors: Tsuchiya Toshiyuki , Hamaguchi Hiroyuki , Sugano Koji , Tabata Osamu
Published: April 2009

A differential capacitive three‐axis silicon‐on‐insulator (SOI) accelerometer using vertical comb electrodes fabricated by using surface‐micromachining technique has been developed. The accelerometer structures consist of only the device layer of a SOI wafer without lower or upper electrodes. The vertical comb electrodes of this device have structures different from conventional vertical comb electrodes. The bottom faces of both movable and fixed electrodes are in the same plane at their initial positions but their heights are different. Three‐axis acceleration can be sensed with differential capacitance detection by using only these vertical comb electrodes. The device structures were successfully fabricated using self‐alignment and Deep‐RIE processes. As an initial result, the capacitance changes against three‐axis acceleration were observed and the device sensitivities to three‐axis accelerations were measured. The capacitance sensitivities of X, Y and Z‐axis were 1.01, 0.898 and 0.989 fF/G, respectively. Copyright © 2009 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Evaporative concentration of a microdroplet for highly sensitive detection of trace heavy metal ions in real samples
Authors: Yanagimachi Isao , Nashida Norihiro , Iwasa Koichiro , Suzuki Hiroaki
Published: April 2009

The influence of surface tension becomes more prominent as the device is miniaturized. We used this effect to enhance the detection sensitivity of trace heavy metal ions. A microelectrode array was formed along with a Ag/AgCl reference electrode and was surrounded by a super‐hydrophobic layer formed with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) beads. When a droplet of a sample solution was placed on the sensing area, the super‐hydrophobic layer repelled the solution and a spherical droplet was formed. The droplet shrank to the sensing area as the solution evaporated. Electrochemical preconcentration was then carried out with the concentrated solution. Three heavy metal ions (Cd2+, Pb2+, and As3+) were analyzed by square‐wave anodic stripping voltammetry. A significant increase in current peaks was observed by this novel method. When a 10‐µL droplet was used, the detection limit was 600 ppt for Pb2+ and As3+ ions and 900 ppt for Cd2+ ions. Furthermore, the effect of the evaporative concentration was enhanced by increasing the volume of sample solution. We used this device for analysis of real samples. Correlation between the values obtained by this method and a conventional method was satisfactory with correlation coefficients of 0.982 (Pb2+), 0.969 (Cd2+), and 0.936 (As3+). Copyright © 2009 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Development of self‐vibration/detection AFM probe using quartz tuning fork
Authors: Hida Hirotaka , Shikida Mitsuhiro , Fukuzawa Kenji , Murakami Shirou , Sato Kenji , Asaumi Kazuo , Iriye Yasuroh , Sato Kazuo
Published: April 2009

We present a novel type of quartz tuning‐fork probe, which oscillates and detects its own probe deformation, for atomic force microscopy (AFM) systems. The quartz tuning‐fork structure was fabricated using anisotropic wet etching, and a sharp tip was formed on a beam using a focused ion beam (FIB) system. We evaluated the vibration properties of the fabricated tuning fork with the tip structure in an anti‐phase vibration mode and obtained a Q‐factor value of 2.5 to 2.8 × 103. This value was one order larger than that of a conventional Si probe. We experimentally clarified that the tuning‐fork probe measured a 100‐nm step of the Si surface, as well as the debris with a thickness of a few tens of nanometers on the surface by self‐vibration and self‐detection in cyclic‐contact mode AFM. Copyright © 2009 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Stock price prediction using neural networks with RasID‐GA
Authors: Mabu Shingo , Chen Yan , Sohn Dongkyu , Shimada Kaoru , Hirasawa Kotaro
Published: April 2009

In general, neural networks are widely used in pattern recognition, system modeling and prediction, and can model complex nonlinear systems. In the previous work, we proposed a novel training algorithm, Adaptive Random Search with Intensification and Diversification combined with Genetic Algorithm (RasID‐GA), for training the multibranch recurrent neural networks recently developed. In this paper, RasID‐GA has been applied to predict stock market prices using the multibranch feed forward neural networks. We predicted the next day's closing stock price with several past closing stock prices. We used the stock prices of 20 brands for 720 days in order to evaluate the generalization ability of the proposed method. Copyright © 2009 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.