bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An extended finite element framework for slow‐rate frictional faulting with bulk plasticity and variable friction
Authors: Liu Fushen , Borja Ronaldo I.
Published: February 2009

We present an extended finite element (FE) approach for the simulation of slow‐rate frictional faulting in geologic media incorporating bulk plasticity and variable friction. The method allows the fault to pass through the interior of FEs without remeshing. The extended FE algorithm for frictional faulting, advocated in two recent articles, emanates from a variational equation formulated in terms of the relative displacement on the fault. In the present paper we consider the combined effects of bulk plasticity and variable friction in a two‐dimensional plane strain setting. Bulk plasticity is localized to the fault tip and could potentially be used as a predictor for the initiation and propagation of new faults. We utilize a variable velocity‐ and state‐dependent friction, known as the Dieterich–Ruina or ‘slowness’ law, formulated in a slip‐weakening format. The slip‐weakening/variable friction model is then time‐integrated according to the generalized trapezoidal rule. We present numerical examples demonstrating the convergence properties of a global Newton‐based iterative scheme, as well as illustrate some interesting properties of the variable friction model. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dielectric spectra of Li+ (Na+) codoped CaF2:YbF3 crystals
Authors: Pruna Andreea , Stef Marius , Nicoara Irina
Published: February 2009

Calcium fluoride crystals doped with YbF3 and codoped with NaF, LiF were grown using the vertical Bridgman method. The effect of Na+ and Li+ ions on the optical and dielectric spectra was studied. The relaxation parameters (the activation energy for dipole reorientation and relaxation time constant) and the number of the dipoles, ND, that contribute to the dielectric relaxation have been determined from the dielectric spectra. The correlation between ND and the optical spectra is also discussed. A comparison of our results with those obtained by other authors is also given. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Structural and magnetic properties of electrodeposited cobalt nanowires in polycarbonate membrane
Authors: Rani V. Sudha , Anandakumar S. , Lee Hojun , Bang Wonbae , Hong Kimin , Yoon S. S. , Jeong J.‐R. , Kim CheolGi
Published: February 2009

We analyzed the structural and magnetic properties of an array of electrodeposited cobalt nanowires grown in polycarbonate membrane with pore size 50 nm diameter and thickness ≤6 μm. The current‐time profiles were recorded during the deposition, in order to estimate and understand the growth rate and mechanism of the cobalt nanowires respectively. The formation of single and multi‐domains in the nanowires was explained by using simple domain model assumptions. The X‐ray diffraction patterns show that the cobalt nanowires were grown in a mixture of fcc and hcp phases. The magnetic properties of the deposited nanowires show that the preferential magnetization orientation close to the perpendicular direction of the nanowire axis. The structural properties of the nanowires were observed by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The magnetic properties were analyzed by Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) at room temperature. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Influence of substrate temperature on structural, electrical and optical properties of flash evaporated CuIn0.60Al0.40Se2 thin films
Authors: Chandra G. Hema , Udayakumar C. , Rajagopalan S. , Balamurugan A. K. , Uthanna S.
Published: February 2009

CuIn0.60Al0.40Se2 thin films were grown by the flash evaporation method onto glass substrates held at temperatures in the range 303–623 K. The influence of substrate temperature on growth of the films was studied. The growth of the highly (111) oriented CuIn0.60Al0.40Se2 thin films was observed at TS = 598 K exhibiting sphalerite structure. The surface morphology of CuIn0.60Al0.40Se2 films deposited at TS = 623 K indicates segregation of Cu2–x Se binary phase. The electrical resistivity was around 66 Ω cm (300 nm) with p‐type conductivity for the films deposited at 598 K. The temperature dependence of the electrical conductivity suggested that above 493 K the conduction mechanism was intrinsic, whereas extrinsic/impurity conduction dominated in the range 303–473 K. The single phase CuIn0.60Al0.40Se2 films showed an optical bandgap of 1.37 eV. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Preparation and properties of In/p‐Cu(In1–xGax)(S1–ySey)2 surface‐barrier structures
Authors: Zaretskaya Ellen , Gremenok Valery , Zalesski Valery , Schorr Susan , Rud Vasil , Rud Yury
Published: February 2009

Cu(In1–xGax)(S1–ySey)2 (CIGSS) thin films were prepared by the simultaneous selenizarion/sulfurization of Cu‐In‐Ga metallic alloys. Full characterizations have been carried out using XRD, SEM, EDX, AES and Raman scattering measurements. Photosensitive In/p ‐CIGSS surface‐barrier rectifying structures were created by thermal deposition of pure Incontacts onto the surface of the CIGSS as grown films. The influences of the thin films chemical composition and the illumination conditions on the photo‐electric parameters of In/p ‐CIGSS structures were studied. Analysis of the results showed the availability of the prepared CIGSS films for creation of high efficiency thin films photovoltaic devices. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Ferroelectric phases in the polytypes of TlInS2 ternary compound
Authors: Gololobov Yu. P. , Borovoy N. A. , Isayenko G. L. , Polovina A. I.
Published: February 2009

The measurements of the real part of the dielectric constant and X‐ray diffraction studies of different polytypes of TlInS2 crystals are presented in the temperature range T = 160–250 K. Substantial influence polytypism on the occurrence of a polarized state in TlInS2 crystals has been revealed. It is shown that phase transition in 2C‐polytype, unlike C‐polytype, is not accompanied by a quadrupling of elementary cell along C axes, it is characterized by the other order parameter and occurs at higher temperatures.(© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Solid solutions in In2S3–MnIn2S4 system
Authors: Bodnar I. V. , Victorov I. A. , Dabranski V. M. , Osipova M. A.
Published: February 2009

The research of semiconductors displaying ferromagnetic properties at room temperature has attracted more and more attention to investigations of doped AIIBVI, AIIIBV and A2IIIB3VI binary semiconductors (CdMnTe, GaMnAs, In2S3:Mn etc.) with Mn [1, 2]. During the last few years growing interest has been shown to spintronics or electronics using spin effects due to its potential applicability to new functional devices combining both transport and magnetic properties and possibility to work at room temperature [3]. A number of exciting new properties such as spin injection, carrier‐induced and optically controlled ferromagnetism have been discovered in III‐V‐based diluted semiconductors [4, 5]. Doping of In2S3 with ferromagnetic atoms of Mn shall lead to a change of existing and appearance of new unique physical properties in this compound, combining both semiconductor and magnetic properties. Results of study of In2S3‐MnIn2S4 system have been presented in the given work for the first time. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Hydrogen bonding in acetylacetaldehyde: Theoretical insights from the theory of atoms in molecules
Authors: Nowroozi A. , Jalbout A. F. , Roohi H. , Khalilinia E. , Sadeghi M. , de Leon A. , Raissi H.
Published: February 2009

All the possible conformations of tautomeric structures (keto and enol) of acetylacetaldehyde (AAD) were fully optimized at HF, B3LYP, and MP2 levels with 6‐31G(d,p) and 6‐311++G(d,p) basis sets to determine the conformational equilibrium. Theoretical results show that two chelated enol forms have extra stability with respect to the other conformers, but identification of global minimum is very difficult. The high level ab initio calculations G2(MP2) and CBS‐QB3) also support the HF conclusion. It seems that the chelated enol forms have equal stability, and the energy gap between them is probably lies in the computational error range. Finally, the analysis of hydrogen bond in these molecules by quantum theory of atoms in molecules (AIM) and natural bond orbital (NBO) methods fairly support the ab initio results. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Intramolecular hydrogen bond in 3‐imino‐propenylamine isomers: AIM and NBO studies
Authors: Raissi H. , Jalbout Abraham F. , Abbasi B. , Fazli F. , Farzad F. , Nadim E. , de Leon Aned
Published: February 2009

The molecular structure and intramolecular hydrogen bond energy of 18 conformers of 3‐imino‐propenyl‐amine were investigated at MP2 and B3LYP levels of theory using the standard 6‐311++G** basis set. The atom in molecules or AIM theory of Bader, which is based on the topological properties of the electron density (ρ), was used additionally and the natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis was also carried out. Furthermore calculations for all possible conformations of 3‐imino‐propenyl‐amin in water solution were also carried out at B3LYP/6‐311++G** and MP2/6‐311++G** levels of theory. The calculated geometrical parameters and conformational analyses in gas phase and water solution show that the imine–amine conformers of this compound are more stable than the other conformers. B3LYP method predicts the IMA‐1 as global minimum. This stability is mainly due to the formation of a strong NH···N intramolecular hydrogen bond, which is assisted by π‐electrons resonance, and this π‐electrons are established by NH2 functional group. Hydrogen bond energies for all conformers of 3‐imino‐propenyl‐amine were obtained from the related rotamers methods. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
Bayesian decision sequential analysis with survival endpoint in phase II clinical trials
Authors: Zhao Lili , Woodworth George
Published: February 2009

Chen and Chaloner (Statist. Med. 2006; 25:2956–2966. DOI: 10.1002/sim.2429) present a Bayesian stopping rule for a single‐arm clinical trial with a binary endpoint. In some cases, earlier stopping may be possible by basing the stopping rule on the time to a binary event. We investigate the feasibility of computing exact, Bayesian, decision‐theoretic time‐to‐event stopping rules for a single‐arm group sequential non‐inferiority trial relative to an objective performance criterion. For a conjugate prior distribution, exponential failure time distribution, and linear and threshold loss structures, we obtain the optimal Bayes stopping rule by backward induction. We compute frequentist operating characteristics of including Type I error, statistical power, and expected run length. We also briefly address design issues. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bayesian adjustment for covariate measurement errors: A flexible parametric approach
Authors: Hossain Shahadut , Gustafson Paul
Published: February 2009

In most epidemiological investigations, the study units are people, the outcome variable (or the response) is a health‐related event, and the explanatory variables are usually environmental and/or socio‐demographic factors. The fundamental task in such investigations is to quantify the association between the explanatory variables (covariates/exposures) and the outcome variable through a suitable regression model. The accuracy of such quantification depends on how precisely the relevant covariates are measured. In many instances, we cannot measure some of the covariates accurately. Rather, we can measure noisy (mismeasured) versions of them. In statistical terminology, mismeasurement in continuous covariates is known as measurement errors or errors‐in‐variables. Regression analyses based on mismeasured covariates lead to biased inference about the true underlying response–covariate associations. In this paper, we suggest a flexible parametric approach for avoiding this bias when estimating the response–covariate relationship through a logistic regression model. More specifically, we consider the flexible generalized skew‐normal and the flexible generalized skew‐t distributions for modeling the unobserved true exposure. For inference and computational purposes, we use Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo techniques. We investigate the performance of the proposed flexible parametric approach in comparison with a common flexible parametric approach through extensive simulation studies. We also compare the proposed method with the competing flexible parametric method on a real‐life data set. Though emphasis is put on the logistic regression model, the proposed method is unified and is applicable to the other generalized linear models, and to other types of non‐linear regression models as well. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adaptive designs with correlated test statistics
Authors: Götte Heiko , Hommel Gerhard , Faldum Andreas
Published: February 2009

In clinical trials, the collected observations such as clustered data or repeated measurements are often correlated. As a consequence, test statistics in a multistage design are correlated. Adaptive designs were originally developed for independent test statistics. We present a general framework for two‐stage adaptive designs with correlated test statistics. We show that the significance level for the Bauer–Köhne design is inflated for positively correlated test statistics from a bivariate normal distribution. The decision boundary for the second stage can be modified so that type one error is controlled. This general concept is expandable to other adaptive designs. In order to use these designs, the correlation between test statistics has to be estimated. For a known covariance matrix, we show how correlation can be determined within the framework of linear mixed models. A sample size reassessment rule is proposed and evaluated for an unknown covariance matrix by simulation. As Wald test statistics in linear mixed models have independent increments, we use this property to create valid test procedures. We compare these procedures with the proposed design in our simulations. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nanoparticles of Mesoporous SO3H‐Functionalized Si‐MCM‐41 with Superior Proton Conductivity
Authors: Marschall Roland , Bannat Inga , Feldhoff Armin , Wang Lianzhou , Lu Gao Qing (Max) , Wark Michael
Published: February 2009

Nanometer‐sized mesoporous silica particles of around 100‐nm diameter functionalized with a large amount of sulfonic acid groups are prepared using a simple and fast in situ co‐condensation procedure. A highly ordered hexagonal pore structure is established by applying a pre‐hydrolysis step in a high‐dilution synthesis approach, followed by adding the functionalization agent to the reaction mixture. The high‐dilution approach is advantageous for the in situ functionalization since no secondary reagents for an effective particle and framework formation are needed. Structural data are determined via electron microscopy, nitrogen adsorption, and X‐ray diffraction, proton conductivity values of the functionalized samples are measured via impedance spectroscopy. The obtained mesoporous SO3H‐MCM‐41 nanoparticles demonstrate superior proton conductivity than their equally loaded micrometer‐sized counterparts, up to 5 × 10−2 S cm−1. The mesoporosity of the particles turns out to be very important for effective proton transport since non‐porous silica nanoparticles exhibit worse efficient proton transport, and the obtained particle size dependence might open up a new route in rational design of highly proton conductive materials.
Cellular Uptake and Cytotoxicity of Gold Nanorods: Molecular Origin of Cytotoxicity and Surface Effects
Authors: Alkilany Alaaldin M. , Nagaria Pratik K. , Hexel Cole R. , Shaw Timothy J. , Murphy Catherine J. , Wyatt Michael D.
Published: February 2009

Gold nanorods of different aspect ratios are prepared using the growth‐directing surfactant, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), which forms a bilayer on the gold nanorod surface. Toxicological assays of CTAB‐capped nanorod solutions with human colon carcinoma cells (HT‐29) reveal that the apparent cytotoxicity is caused by free CTAB in solution. Overcoating the nanorods with polymers substantially reduces cytotoxicity. The number of nanorods taken up per cell, for the different surface coatings, is quantitated by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry on washed cells; the number of nanorods per cell varies from 50 to 2300, depending on the surface chemistry. Serum proteins from the biological media, most likely bovine serum albumin, adsorb to gold nanorods, leading to all nanorod samples bearing the same effective charge, regardless of the initial nanorod surface charge. The results suggest that physiochemical surface properties of nanomaterials change substantially after coming into contact with biological media. Such changes should be taken into consideration when examining the biological properties or environmental impact of nanoparticles.
The etiology of liquidity crises and how managers can be better prepared
Authors: Mathis F. John , Kallberg Jarl , Tuzzolino Frank
Published: February 2009

Financial shocks have become an increasingly pervasive feature of the global economic landscape. Among the two most prominent that have faced corporate managers during the past decade are the bursting of the technology bubble in 2000 and the ongoing global financial and economic crisis. These not only have had a chilling impact on the industries most directly involved, but they also occasioned a massive spillover into other industrial sectors, and in financial markets in general. “Contagion” is perhaps the most devastating aspect of such crises. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Seeding the clouds for industrial relations climate change in emerging economies
Authors: Reade Carol , McKenna Mark Reade
Published: February 2009

As manufacturing businesses increasingly move labor‐intensive production to emerging economies, it is important for international managers to understand the sociopolitical factors that shape the climate in which management and labor interact. We present a conceptual “weather map” of industrial relations climates and use indices to plot the climates of 33 emerging, 11 transition, and 21 developed economies. As hypothesized, emerging economies, compared with transition and developed economies, are characterized by a relatively adversarial industrial relations climate and a high incidence of industrial action. Implications for international managers and future research directions are discussed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The use of the consumer ethnocentrism and consumer animosity scales in Iran: A research note
Authors: Bahaee Mahmood , Pisani Michael J.
Published: February 2009

This research note presents the results of testing the reliability of two constructs from the country‐of‐origin literature—consumer ethnocentrism and consumer animosity—within the Iranian national consumer environment. Consumer ethnocentrism, developed by Shimp and Sharma (1987), measures the level of consumer ethnocentrism and has been used broadly in several countries. The consumer animosity scale (Klein, Ettenson, & Morris, 1998), a newer construct, has not been widely tested for its reliability in diverse national contexts. The country of Iran, with its ongoing dispute and hostility with the United States, provides an ideal context to test both of these constructs. We utilized the original animosity scale and an adapted version of the ethnocentrism scale. Both scales performed well and provide strong support for the reliability of each construct, allowing other researchers a high degree of confidence in their application. This finding suggests that these research tools may be useful and can be expanded to the greater Middle East region. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A cross‐cultural analysis of print advertising targeted to Hispanic and non‐Hispanic American consumers
Authors: Singh Nitish , Bartikowski Boris
Published: February 2009

U.S. Hispanics represent an important consumer segment in the North American market, but research in the area of U.S. Hispanic advertising remains limited. This study provides cross‐cultural analysis of print advertising targeted to Hispanic and non‐Hispanic American consumers in an attempt to explore the differences or similarities in their depictions of cultural values. The authors develop a scheme for content analyzing cultural values based on cultural theory literature. Results show meaningful differences in the core cultural values emphasized to target U.S. Hispanic consumers. The study has implications for marketers and academics who want to differentiate between culturally adapted advertising appeals for U.S. Hispanic and non‐Hispanic American consumers. The coding scheme developed in this study can help marketers identify and depict Hispanic cultural value appeals in their marketing communications. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Formal institutions and foreign direct investment
Authors: Seyoum Belay
Published: February 2009

This study examines the impact of formal institutions on foreign direct investment. First, the quality (strength or weakness) of formal institutions in host countries is analyzed. Second, the absolute differences in the quality of formal institutions between the host and home countries are examined. The results show that (1) strong formal institutions in host countries positively influence FDI flows and (2) the larger the institutional distance between the home and host country, the lesser the FDI inflows. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Construction of ZnII‐based rac‐Helical Chains Containing Semi‐rigid Dipolar Ligand 1,4‐Bis(benzimidazol‐1‐ylmethyl)benzene
Authors: Wen Quan‐Yan , Chen Jian‐Qiao , Fang Hua‐Cai , Chen Li , Zhou Zheng‐Yuan , Hu Zuo‐Jun , Cai Yue‐Peng
Published: February 2009

A ZnII compound based on the semi‐rigid dipolar ligand 1,4‐bis(benzimidazol‐1‐ylmethyl)benzene (L), {[Zn(L)2Cl2]·2DMF}n (1) has been synthesized successfully under solvothermal conditions. X‐ray single crystal diffraction shows that the complex contains P‐helical and M‐helical chains with 21 screw axis but crystallizes as a racemate. Through π···π stacking interactions between two well‐overlapping benzimidazoleyl rings from two adjacent chains, the 3D racemic supramolecular network is assembled. Furthermore, the IR, TGA and luminescent properties are also investigated in this work.
Simple Cutaneous Advancement Flap Anoplasty for Resistant Chronic Anal Fissure: A Prospective Study
Authors: Giordano Pasquale , Gravante Gianpiero , Grondona Pietro , Ruggiero Boris , Porrett Theresa , Lunniss Peter James
Published: February 2009

Background

A proportion of patients with chronic anal fissure have persistent symptoms and pathology despite optimum conservative therapies. Lateral anal sphincterotomy, the standard surgical treatment, is associated with functional compromise in a minority of patients. Sphincter‐sparing anoplasty has been advocated as an alternative procedure for those with “low pressure” sphincters. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of simple cutaneous advancement flap anoplasty (SCAFA) when applied to consecutive patients with chronic anal fissure irrespective of anal tone and the patient’s gender.

Method

This was a prospective outcome study of 51 consecutive patients treated with SCAFA over a 6.5‐year period.

Results

Surgery was well tolerated. There were three (5.9%) early flap dehiscences, all of which were treated with repeat SCAFA, and one of those three patients remained symptomatic at 2 months. All fissures healed in the short term. Three other patients subsequently developed fissures at sites remote from the original pathology. Continence was unaffected by the procedure.

Conclusions

Simple cutaneous advancement flap anoplasty should be considered as a first‐line surgical treatment of chronic anal fissure, irrespective of patient gender and anal tone.
Transtrapezial Peritrapezoidal Transcapital Axial Radial Fracture Dislocation of the Carpus
Authors: Häcki Jürg , Nagy Ladislav , Schweizer Andreas
Published: February 2009

We report a unique pattern of an axial radial fracture dislocation of the carpus. The fracture dislocation line runs transtrapezial peritrapezoidal transcapital transmetacarpal III/IV. Open reduction and internal fixation was performed 11 days after the accident. The result at 9 months is moderate, with a range of motion of 63% and strength of 46% compared to the opposite side.
Fabrication of Highly Ordered Polymeric Nanodot and Nanowire Arrays Templated by Supramolecular Assembly Block Copolymer Nanoporous Thin Films
Authors: Liu Xikui , Stamm Manfred
Published: February 2009

Realizing the vast technological potential of patternable block copolymers requires both the precise controlling of the orientation and long-range ordering, which is still a challenging topic so far. Recently, we have demonstrated that ordered nanoporous thin film can be fabricated from a simple supramolecular assembly approach. Here we will extend this approach and provide a general route to fabricate large areas of highly ordered polymeric nanodot and nanowire arrays. We revealed that under a mixture solvent annealing atmosphere, a near-defect-free nanoporous thin film over large areas can be achieved. Under the direction of interpolymer hydrogen bonding and capillary action of nanopores, this ordered porous nanotemplate can be properly filled with phenolic resin precursor, followed by curation and pyrolysis at middle temperature to remove the nanotemplate, a perfect ordered polymer nanodot arrays replication was obtained. The orientation of the supramolecular assembly thin films can be readily re-aligned parallel to the substrate upon exposure to chloroform vapor, so this facile nanotemplate replica method can be further extend to generate large areas of polymeric nanowire arrays. Thus, we achieved a successful sub-30 nm patterns nanotemplates transfer methodology for fabricating polymeric nanopattern arrays with highly ordered structure and tunable morphologies.
Synthesis and Characterization of Monodispersed Copper Colloids in Polar Solvents
Authors: Yu Wei , Xie Huaqing , Chen Lifei , Li Yang , Zhang Chen
Published: February 2009

A chemical reduction method for preparing monodispersed pure-phase copper colloids in water and ethylene glycol has been reported. Owing to the reduction property of ethylene glycol, the reaction rate in ethylene glycol is higher than that in water. In addition, the amount of reducing agent can be reduced largely. Ascorbic acid plays roles as reducing agent and antioxidant of colloidal copper, due to its ability to scavenge free radicals and reactive oxygen molecules. Thermogravimetric results reveal that the as-prepared copper nanoparticles have good stability, and they begin to be oxidized at above 210 °C. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone works both as size controller and polymeric capping agents, because it hinders the nuclei from aggregation through the polar groups, which strongly absorb the copper particles on the surface with coordination bonds.
A Rapid, Micro FAME Preparation Method for Vegetable Oil Fatty Acid Analysis by Gas Chromatography
Authors: Lall Rahul K. , Proctor Andrew , Jain Vishal P.
Published: February 2009

A 30‐min, micro‐base‐catalyzed method for vegetable oil fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) preparation was developed using only 1 mg of oil sample by limiting the solvent volumes used. This method was primarily developed to quickly analyze fatty acid composition of CLA‐rich soy oil but can be further applicable to pure vegetable oils. Existing base‐catalyzed FAME preparation methods are not appropriate to use because they are either rapid but not micro, or micro but not rapid, or are rapid and micro but use acidification in the final step of FAME preparation, which would isomerize oils containing conjugated fatty acids. Serial dilutions of a mixed commercial FAME reference standard were prepared and analyzed by GC with a flame ionization detector (FID) with maximum instrument sensitivity. The novel method was also used to prepare soy oil FAMEs for GC‐FID analysis. There were no statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) in fatty acid data from the FAME reference standard dilutions. Similarly, there was no statistical significant difference (P < 0.05) between results obtained for all the soy oil dilutions and the control method. This technique is a rapid method for preparing small pure oil samples as FAMEs for GC‐FID analysis.
Influence of long-term consumption of a Lactococcus lactis strain on the intestinal immunity and intestinal flora of the senescence-accelerated mouse
Authors: Kimoto-Nira Hiromi , Mizumachi Koko , Okamoto Takashi , Sasaki Keisuke , Kurisaki Jun-ichi
Published: February 2009

The senescence-accelerated mouse develops normally until 5–6 months of age and then displays rapid and irreversible advancement of senescence manifesting as clinical signs and gross lesions. To clarify the effect of lactic acid bacteria on the physiological changes with increasing age, heat-killed Lactococcus lactis G50 was administered to 1-month-old senescence-accelerated-prone mouse (SAMP)6 mice for 11 months, a senescence-accelerated mouse strain that develops senile osteoporosis. Mice fed G50 gained more weight than the control mice (not fed G50) during the feeding experiment. Faecal IgA levels in the mice fed G50 at 3 months were higher than those of the control mice but decreased to control levels with increasing age. The numbers of viable cells of Bacteroides sp., Lactobacillus sp., Staphylococcus sp., Enterococcus/Streptococcus sp. and Enterobacteriaceae sp. in faeces were similar for mice fed the G50 and control diets at any age, but strain G50 suppressed the intestinal growth of H2S-producing bacteria. Bone density of the thigh bone did not differ between aged G50 and control mice. Strain G50 would be a beneficial bacterium for the enhancement of intestinal immunity during youth and to suppress the growth of harmful intestinal bacteria. The applicability of strain G50 for the food and animal industries has been proposed in the present study.
Relationship between abnormal sperm morphology induced by dietary zinc deficiency and lipid composition in testes of growing rats
Authors: Merrells Krystal J. , Blewett Heather , Jamieson Jennifer A. , Taylor Carla G. , Suh Miyoung
Published: February 2009

The present study investigated the effect of dietary Zn deficiency during sexual maturation on sperm integrity and testis phospholipid fatty acid composition. Male weanling Sprague–Dawley rats were randomised into four dietary groups for 3 weeks: Zn control (ZC; 30 mg Zn/kg); Zn marginally deficient (ZMD; 9 mg Zn/kg); Zn deficient (ZD; < 1 mg Zn/kg); pair fed (PF; 30 mg Zn/kg) to the ZD group. Morphology of cauda epididymal sperm and lipid profiles of testis phospholipids were analysed. The rats fed the ZD diet had a lower testis weight (P < 0·02). Seminal vesicles and prostate weight were also lower in the ZD and PF groups. Rats fed the ZD diet, but not the ZMD diet, had 34–35 % more abnormal spermatozoa and 24 % shorter sperm tail length than the ZC and PF rats (P < 0·001). Testis cholesterol concentration was higher in the ZD rats compared with the ZC and PF rats (P < 0·04). Testes were highly enriched withn-6 fatty acids by showingn-6 : n-3 fatty acid ratios of 27:1 in phosphatidylcholine (PC) and 23:1 in phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). The dominant fatty acid in testes was docosapentaenoic acid (22 : 5n-6), comprising 15 and 24 % of PC and PE, respectively. This fatty acid was significantly lower in the ZD rats, whereas 18 : 2n-6 was higher compared with the rats in the other diet groups. These results demonstrate that severe Zn deficiency adversely affects sperm integrity and modulates testis fatty acid composition by interrupting essential fatty acid metabolism. This suggests that Zn deficiency-associated abnormal testicular function is perhaps preceded by altered membrane fatty acid composition, especially of a major fatty acid, 22 : 5n-6.
Inhibitory effect of serotonin derivatives on high glucose-induced adhesion and migration of monocytes on human aortic endothelial cells
Authors: Piga Rosaria , Naito Yuji , Kokura Satoshi , Handa Osamu , Yoshikawa Toshikazu
Published: February 2009

Previous reports have shown that safflower-seed extract and its major antioxidant constituents, serotonin hydroxycinnamic amides, attenuated atherosclerotic lesion formation in apoE-deficient mice, as well as inflammation and aortic stiffness in human subjects. In the present report, we examined a still unknown cell-based mechanism of serotonin derivatives against the development of atherosclerosis, focusing our attention on their action against the increase of adhesion molecules and the release of chemotactic factors on human aortic endothelial cells, phenomena that represent the key events in the early stages of atherosclerogenesis. Serotonin derivatives N-(p-coumaroyl)serotonin and N-feruloylserotonin exerted an inhibitory effect on short-term high glucose-induced up-regulation of mRNA and protein of adhesion and migration factors, and the consequent adhesion and migration of monocytes to endothelial cells; they inhibited the activation of transcription factors such as NF-κB, and the overproduction of the mitochondrial superoxide by acting as scavengers of the superoxide radical. In addition, serotonin derivative concentration inside the cells and inside the mitochondria was increased in a time-dependent manner. These results identify a mechanism of action of serotonin derivatives against endothelial damage at a cellular level, and underline their benefits against the disorders and complications related to reactive oxygen species.
INTEGRABLE SYSTEMS IN SYMPLECTIC GEOMETRY
Authors: ASADI E. , SANDERS J. A.
Published: February 2009

Quaternionic vector mKDV equations are derived from the Cartan structure equation in the symmetric space=Sp(n+1)/Sp(1) ×Sp(n). The derivation of the soliton hierarchy utilizes a moving parallel frame and a Cartan connection 1-form ω related to the Cartan geometry onmodelled on$(\mk{sp}_{n+1}, \mk{sp}_{1}\,{\times}\, \mk{sp}_{n})$. The integrability structure is shown to be geometrically encoded by a Poisson–Nijenhuis structure and a symplectic operator.
WEAKLY NON-ASSOCIATIVE ALGEBRAS AND THE KADOMTSEV–PETVIASHVILI HIERARCHY
Authors: DIMAKIS ARISTOPHANES , MÜLLER-HOISSEN FOLKERT
Published: February 2009

On any ‘weakly non-associative’ algebra there is a universal family of compatible ordinary differential equations (provided that differentiability with respect to parameters can be defined), any solution of which yields a solution of the Kadomtsev–Petviashvili (KP) hierarchy with dependent variable in an associative sub-algebra, the middle nucleus.
BAKER–AKHIEZER FUNCTION AS ITERATED RESIDUE AND SELBERG-TYPE INTEGRAL
Authors: FELDER GIOVANNI , VESELOV ALEXANDER P.
Published: February 2009

A simple integral formula as an iterated residue is presented for the Baker–Akhiezer function related toAn-type root system in both the rational and trigonometric cases. We present also a formula for the Baker–Akhiezer function as a Selberg-type integral and generalise it to the deformedAn,1-case. These formulas can be interpreted as new cases of explicit evaluation of Selberg-type integrals.
SECOND-ORDER DEFORMATIONS OF HYDRODYNAMIC-TYPE POISSON BRACKETS
Authors: FERGUSON JAMES T.
Published: February 2009

This paper is concerned with the properties of differential-geometric-type Poisson brackets specified by a differential operator of degree 2. It also considers the conditions required for such a Poisson bracket to form a bi-Hamiltonian structure with a hydrodynamic-type Poisson bracket.
NOTE ON THE TWO-COMPONENT ANALOGUE OF TWO-DIMENSIONAL LONG WAVE – SHORT WAVE RESONANCE INTERACTION SYSTEM
Authors: MARUNO KEN-ICHI , OHTA YASUHIRO , OIKAWA MASAYUKI
Published: February 2009

An integrable two-component analogue of the two-dimensional long wave – short wave resonance interaction (2c-2d-LSRI) system is studied. Wronskian solutions of 2c-2d-LSRI system are presented. A reduced case, which describes resonant interaction between an interfacial wave and two surface wave packets in a two-layer fluid, is also discussed.
INTEGRABLE LATTICE MAPS: QV, A RATIONAL VERSION OF Q4
Authors: VIALLET CLAUDE M.
Published: February 2009

We describe a family of integrable lattice maps related to the known quad maps Q4. The integrability criterion we use is the vanishing of the algebraic entropy. The family has the advantage of being parametrized rationally: all its parameters are unconstrained.
Use of a screening tool for detection of sleep-disordered breathing
Authors: Clark A L , Crabbe S , Aziz A , Reddy P , Greenstone M
Published: February 2009

Background:

Sleep apnoea, whether obstructive or central, is usually diagnosed by polysomnography. A simpler tool for screening high risk populations may be of value.

Methods:

We compared a portable device using nasal pressure cannulae and a high-sensitivity pressure sensor (the ApneaLink®) with our standard polysomnography technique for diagnosing sleep apnoea (using the Embletta® device), in 67 patients being investigated for possible sleep apnoea. The patients' average age was 52.6, 79 per cent were male, the mean body mass index was 32.3, and the mean Epworth sleepiness score was 13.0.

Results:

Twenty-five patients (45 per cent) were identified as having an apnoea–hypopnoea index of >15, as measured by the Embletta. The mean (standard deviation) apnoea–hypopnoea index was 21.5 ± 23.0 as measured by the Embletta and 24.3 ± 26.2 as measured by the ApneaLink. The sensitivity of the ApneaLink for an apnoea–hypopnoea index cut-off point of 15 was 92 per cent and the specificity was 96.7 per cent. The negative predictive value of the ApneaLink for an apnoea–hypopnoea index of ≤15 was 94 per cent.

Conclusions:

The ApneaLink is a useful tool for screening patients thought to have possible sleep apnoea, and for selecting patients for definitive diagnostic testing.
The politics of anti-corruption reform in Africa
Authors: Lawson Letitia
Published: February 2009

Previous research on anti-corruption reform in Africa falls into two camps. The first explores ‘best practices’ and policy approaches to controlling corruption, while the second focuses on the politics of anti-corruption ‘reform’, arguing that official anti-corruption campaigns aim to mollify donors while using corruption charges instrumentally to undermine rivals and shore up personal loyalty to the president, and thus have no chance of controlling corruption. This paper suggests that, while the neopatrimonial context is a very significant limiting factor in anti-corruption reform, limited progress is possible. Examining the motivations and effects, intended and unintended, of anti-corruption reforms in Kenya and Nigeria, it finds that while the Kenya Anti-Corruption Commission has indeed been politically marginalised and largely ineffectual, the more autonomous and activist, but politically instrumentalised, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in Nigeria has had a measure of success. The analysis suggests that this is explained by the EFCC's independent prosecutorial powers and the institutionalisation strategies of its chairman.
Phase stabilization of the amplitude dividing four-beam combined laser system using stimulated Brillouin scattering phase conjugate mirrors
Authors: Kong H.J. , Shin J.S. , Yoon J.W. , Beak D.H.
Published: February 2009

The beam combination method using stimulated Brillouin scattering phase conjugate mirrors (SBS-PCMs) is a promising technique for a high energy and high power laser output operating with a high repetition rate. The two-beam combined system was previously demonstrated with an amplitude dividing method. A four-beam combined laser system with amplitude dividing method is demonstrated in this work, and the phase stabilization experiment of this system is performed using the self phase control and the long-term stabilization technique. The phase differences between the SBS waves are stabilized with λ/30 and the fluctuation of the four-beam combined output energy is 6.16% during 2000 shots (200 s).
Results from a 15-year study on hydrocarbon concentrations in water and sediment from Admiralty Bay, King George Island, Antarctica
Authors: Bícego Márcia C. , Zanardi-Lamardo Eliete , Taniguchi Satie , Martins César C. , da Silva Denis A.M. , Sasaki Sílvio T. , Albergaria-Barbosa Ana C.R. , Paolo Fernando S. , Weber Rolf R. , Montone Rosalinda C.
Published: February 2009

Admiralty Bay on the King George Island hosts the Brazilian, Polish and Peruvian research stations as well as the American and Ecuadorian field stations. Human activities in this region require the use of fossil fuels as an energy source, thereby placing the region at risk of hydrocarbon contamination. Hydrocarbon monitoring was conducted on water and sediment samples from the bay over 15 years. Fluorescence spectroscopy was used for the analysis of total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in seawater samples and gas chromatography with flame ionization and/or mass spectrometric detection was used to analyse individual n-alkanes and PAHs in sediment samples. The results revealed that most sites contaminated by these compounds are around the Brazilian and Polish research stations due to the intense human activities, mainly during the summer. Moreover, the sediments revealed the presence of hydrocarbons from different sources, suggesting a mixture of the direct input of oil or derivatives and derived from hydrocarbon combustion. A decrease in PAH concentrations occurred following improvement of the sewage treatment facilities at the Brazilian research station, indicating that the contribution from human waste may be significant.
Expression of voltage-activated calcium channels in the early zebrafish embryo
Authors: Sanhueza Dayán , Montoya Andro , Sierralta Jimena , Kukuljan Manuel
Published: February 2009

Increases in cytosolic calcium concentrations regulate many cellular processes, including aspects of early development. Calcium release from intracellular stores and calcium entry through non-voltage-gated channels account for signalling in non-excitable cells, whereas voltage-gated calcium channels (CaV) are important in excitable cells. We report the expression of multiple transcripts of CaV, identified by its homology to other species, in the early embryo of the zebrafish,Danio rerio, at stages prior to the differentiation of excitable cells. CaV mRNAs and proteins were detected as early as the 2-cell stages, which indicate that they arise from both maternal and zygotic transcription. Exposure of embryos to pharmacological blockers of CaV does not perturb early development significantly, although late effects are appreciable. These results suggest that CaV may have a role in calcium homeostasis and control of cellular process during early embryonic development.
Connexin37 mRNA expression in in vivo and in vitro mouse oocyte
Authors: Yin Bao Ying , Zhang Yong , Sun Jian Hong , Li Ji Xia , Ma Ye Fei
Published: February 2009

To evaluate gene expression of Connexin37 (Cx37) in oocytes from in vitro follicles at different stages, mouse preantral follicles were isolated and cultured for 12 days in vitro. Compared with in vitro follicles, follicles grown in vivo were collected at day 14 (d14), d16, d18, d20, d22 and d24 with the same stages for gene expression of Cx37 in oocytes. Our results showed that Cx37 mRNA increased along with follicular development, reached the highest level at the onset of antrum cavity formation and decreased after antrum formation in both in vivo and in vitro mouse oocytes. However, Cx37 mRNA was significant higher (p < 0.01) in in vitro cultured oocytes than in vivo oocytes. Moreover, significantly higher levels of Cx37 mRNA were found in oocytes from in vitro disrupted follicles (p < 0.01) and non-grown follicles (p < 0.05) than those from normal follicles with a similar size. These data determine temporal gene expression of Cx37 in oocytes from follicules at different stages and indicate that the gene expression level of Cx37 in oocytes could be evaluated as a criterion to the regulatory mechanism of Cx37 in an in vitro model.
Getting to the Heart of Clinical Supervision: A Theoretical Review of the Role of Emotions in Professional Development
Authors: Lombardo Chiara , Milne Derek , Proctor Rachael
Published: February 2009

Background: The importance of supervision is increasingly recognized, yet it remains little understood, impairing research and practice. Specifically, the CBT supervision model provides a relatively “heartless” account of professional development, which may undermine its effectiveness. Method: A theoretical review of emotions in supervision and learning is provided, to summarize relevant theoretical and empirical literature. The objectives are to clarify the role of emotions in CBT supervision, and to use this understanding to outline an emotionally-attuned model, illustrating its application to two critical aspects of CBT supervision (the development of a learning alliance and enhancing professional competence). Conclusion: The reviewed literature (theory and research evidence) supports the explicit and systematic incorporation of emotions into CBT supervision. Conceptually, this can be achieved by integrating Lazarus's (1991) general theory of emotion with the CBT model. The illustrations of this augmented model indicate its value in understanding and managing both the “rupture-repair” cycle that can affect the supervisory alliance, and the “deskilling-development” pattern that appears to be necessary for the acquisition of competence. We propose that CBT supervision might usefully be guided by our expanded model, as this affords greater internal consistency and may be more effective educationally.
A non-termination criterion for binary constraint logic programs
Authors: PAYET ÉTIENNE , MESNARD FRED
Published: February 2009

On the one hand, termination analysis of logic programs is now a fairly established research topic within the logic programming community. On the other hand, non-termination analysis seems to remain a much less attractive subject. If we divide this line of research into two kinds of approaches, dynamic versus static analysis, this paper belongs to the latter. It proposes a criterion for detecting non-terminating atomic queries with respect to binary constraint logic programming (CLP) rules, which strictly generalizes our previous works on this subject. We give a generic operational definition and an implemented logical form of this criterion. Then we show that the logical form is correct and complete with respect to the operational definition.
Fluid‐rich damage zone of an ancient out‐of‐sequence thrust, Kodiak Islands, Alaska
Authors: Rowe Christen D. , Meneghini Francesca , Moore J. Casey
Published: February 2009

The Uganik Thrust is a fossil out‐of‐sequence thrust fault which was active over a period of ∼3 Ma during the early Tertiary until activity ceased with the subduction of the Kula‐Farallon spreading ridge at ∼57 Ma. During this period the fault experienced at least ∼1 km of throw and developed a strongly asymmetric damage zone. The brittle damage zone in the footwall of the fault acted as a conduit for fluid advection during the active faulting. A similar asymmetrical footwall damage zone has been interpreted as a fluid conduit at the Nobeoka Thrust, Shimanto Belt, SW Japan. Thermal indicators in the uppermost footwall give similar maximum paleotemperatures to those in the hanging wall (∼280°C), while previous work elsewhere in the footwall formation suggests maximum burial temperatures of ∼240°C. In this case, similar to the Irish Canyon thrust in the Franciscan accretionary complex, the location of the thermal anomaly is spatially offset from the structural fault which caused it owing to thermal overprinting in the vicinity of the fault.