bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resonating Relativistic Mean Field Theory of Finite Nuclei
Authors: Nishiyama Seiya
Published: September 2003

We develop a general theory based on relativistic fields to describe finite nuclei with large quantum fluctuations. The theory is a direct extension of the resonating Hartree-Fock (HF) and resonating Hartree-Bogoliubov (HB) theories to the relativistic mean field case including an effective nucleon mass and an effective potential mediated by mesons. We start from the Walecka model and construct coherent state representations of a system of nucleons described by Dirac spinors and of mesons described in terms of bosons. A state with large quantum fluctuations is approximated by superpositions of non-orthogonal nucleon and meson wave functions with different correlation structures. We derive the variational equations to determine the two kinds of coefficients of fermionic and bosonic configuration mixings and the two kinds of fermionic and bosonic orbitals in the resonating nucleon and meson wave functions.
Cold (Neutronless) Alpha Ternary Fission of 252Cf: Theory and Comparison with Experiment
Authors: Sandulescu A. , Florescu A. , Carstoiu F. , Ramayya A. V. , Hamilton J. H. , Hwang J. K. , Babu B. R. S. , Greiner W.
Published: September 2003

A new phenomenon is studied: the cold (neutronless) ternary α-accompanied fragmentation of 252Cf. The corresponding isotopic yields were calculated as the ratio of the penetrability of a given fragmentation over the sum of penetrabilities of all possible (neutronless) α-ternary fragmentations. No preformation factors were considered. We considered that close to the scission configuration the nucleons of the alpha particle form a small neck. At a given value of the neck radius a double scission takes place and a third light fragment is formed between the two heavier fragments. The corresponding barriers between the light and heavy fragment and between the alpha particle and the two heavier fragments were evaluated by using a double folding potential generated by M3Y nucleon-nucleon forces and realistic fragment ground state deformations. The relative calculated isotopic yields greater than 2 × 10-3 have been observed experimentally for the partners with known spectra. We predict that fragmentations with unknown light partners 105,106Zr, 109,110Mo and 114Ru to be identified in the present data.
Scale Invariance of gA/gV in Lorentz-Scalar and Lorentz-Vector Quark Confining Potentials
Authors: Yan Y. , Tegen R.
Published: September 2003

We have systematically investigated a class of models which is characterised by Euler-Lagrange equations for the quark fields (Dirac equation) which contain bag-like (i.e. Lorentz-scalar) confining potentials and various Lorentz-vector (Coulomb-like and modified linear) confining potentials and report the results for gA/gV, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and ρ(r) (quark annihilation density). It is demonstrated that the effects of the Lorentz-vector potential on low-energy observables are naturally limited in the baryon sector by the "Klein paradox". A strong Lorentz-scalar confining potential can, however, tolerate a small admixture of a Lorentz-vector component. The one-gluon-exchange Lorentz-vector potential is characterized by two parameters αs and r0. The scale-invariance of gA/gV is manifest as a peculiar r0–independence. With Lorentz-vector potentials of the Coulomb form, gA/gV is independent of the quark mass. gA and the quark eigen-energy E0 (and hence also the nucleon mass) decrease considerably for increasing positive αs.
Some Results on Angular Characteristics of Relativistic Charged Particles Produced in 12C-emulsion Interactions at 4.5 A GeV/c
Authors: Singh Prithipal , Khushnood H.
Published: September 2003

An attempt has been made to study the angular characteristic of relativistic charged particles produced in 4.5 A GeV/c 12C-emulsion collisions. The dependence of these characteristics on the multiplicity of the relativistic particles, Ns, has also been investigated. The results reveal that the angular distributions of relativistic particles do not depend on Ns, except at small angles where contribution of singly charged particles fragments enhances the number of relativistic charged particles. It is also observed that the maximum of pseudorapidity, η and <η> distributions, shifts towards the lower value of η with increasing multiplicity of Ns. The study of the rapidity dispersion of relativistic charged particles reveals that the clusterization effect occurs significantly among the final state relativistic particles produced in heavy ion interactions.
Cluster Aspects of 252Cf Spontaneous Fission
Authors: Donangelo R. , Rasmussen J. O. , Stoyer M. A. , Hamilton J. H.
Published: September 2003

An analysis of the spontaneous 252Cf fission into the Mo-Ba channel suggests the existence of two distinct modes of fission. The dominant one agrees with the general trend of fission fragment excitation energies. The second mode, occurring with a relative frequency of a few percent, is characterized by a total kinetic energy much lower than that of the first mode, with almost all of the difference appearing as excitation energy of the fragments. We argue that the second mode can be interpreted in terms of a cluster structure allowing long neck lengths at scission.
Time Dependent Hartree–Bogoliubov Equation on the Coset Space SO(2N + 2)/U(N + 1) and Quasi Anti-Commutation Relation Approximation
Authors: Nishiyama Seiya
Published: September 2003

An induced representation of an SO(2N + 1) group has been obtained from a group extension of the SO(2N) Bogoliubov transformation for fermions to a new canonical transformation group. Embedding the SO(2N + 1) group into an SO(2N + 2) group and using the SO(2N + 2)/U(N + 1) coset variables, we develop an extended time dependent Hartree–Bogoliubov (TDHB) theory in which paired and unpaired modes are treated in an equal manner. The extended TDHB theory applicable to both even and odd fermion systems is a time dependent self-consistent field (TDSCF) theory with the same level of the mean field approximation as the usual TDHB theory for even fermion systems. We start from the Hamiltonian of the fermion system which includes, however, the Lagrange multiplier terms to select the physical spinor subspace. The extended TDHB equation is derived from the classical Euler–Lagrange equation of motion for the SO(2N + 2)/U(N + 1) coset variables in the TDSCF. The final form of the extended TDHB equation can be expressed through the variables as the representatives of the paired mode and the unpaired mode. We introduce the quasi anti-commutation relation approximation for the fermion. The parameters included in the Lagrangian multiplier terms are determined under the quasi anti-commutation relation approximation.
A Quantum Kinetic Equation for Particle Production in the Schwinger Mechanism
Authors: Schmidt S. , Blaschke D. , Röpke G. , Smolyansky S. A. , Prozorkevich A. V. , Toneev V. D.
Published: September 2003

A quantum kinetic equation is derived for the description of pair production in a time-dependent homogeneous electric field E(t). As a source term, the Schwinger mechanism for particle creation is incorporated. Possible particle production due to collisions and collisional damping are neglected. The main result is a kinetic equation of non-Markovian character. In the low density approximation, the source term is reduced to the leading part of the well known Schwinger formula for the probability of pair creation. We discuss the momentum and time dependence of the derived source term and compare with other approaches.
Polarization Phenomena in Inclusive Nucleon Transfer Reactions
Authors: Berezhnoy Yu. A. , Slipko V. A.
Published: September 2003

The theory of the polarization phenomena in the inclusive one- and two-nucleon transfer reactions (d,n) and (3 H ,n) at intermediate energies is developed on the basis of the S-matrix approach. Since the parameters of the S-matrix are found from fitting the experimental data for the elastic scattering of protons by the nuclei, the calculated polarization observables of the neutrons released in reactions 40 Ca (d,n), 208 Pb (d,n), 40 Ca (3 H ,n) and 208 Pb (3 H ,n) in the wide energy region do not have any free parameters.
True Neutrality, Complementary Principle and the Neutrality of Our Universe
Authors: Chan Tsan Ung
Published: September 2003

The criteria of true neutrality would infer that the neutrino is not a truly neutral particle and thus would imply that ββoν decay is forbidden, in agreement with the absence of any evidence of this process so far. Any fundamental interaction admits at least one truly neutral particle as messenger. Materialization through SM interactions corresponds to the creation of a pair of baryon antibaryon or lepton antilepton. These pairs have the same quantum numbers as those of the neutral messenger responsible for their creation. No net change of baryon number or lepton number could be obtained through materialization. But, we know that our present Universe is composed of matter and is electrically neutral. This implies that the number of protons is strictly equal to the number of electrons. A possible scenario is put forward to account for these two fundamental experimental facts. The principle of complementarity would explain the exact balance of protons and electrons. Baryogenesis and leptogenesis would be the two faces of the same phenomenon. This scenario is compatible with the absence of ββoν decay and of proton decay and it does not require the unification of forces. This model could explain the asymmetric but nevertheless electrically neutral Universe; however, it could not account for the numerical value of the tiny excess of matter over antimatter in the early Universe. This value would be incidental. MC force with a structure analogous to that of weak force would ensure the neutrality of our Universe without requiring the strict matter-antimatter symmetry, rendering thus the concept of anti-Universe superfluous.
Hamiltonian System and Symmetries for Scale Invariant Wavefunctions
Authors: Ludu A. , Draayer J. P. , Greiner W.
Published: September 2003

The connection between scale invariant wavefunctions and solutions of some nonlinear equations (e.g., solitons and compactons) have been studied. Scale invariant functions are shown to have variational properties and a nonlinear algebraic structure. Any two-scale equation follows from Hamilton's equation of an infinite-dimensional Hamiltonian system, providing a self-similar formalism that is useful in studies of hierarchical and nonlinear lattices, soliton and compacton waves. The algebraic structure of any scaling function is shown to be a deformation of the trigonometric series generating algebra.
HIGH DENSITY DIAMOND WHISKER FABRICATION AND SUPPRESSION OF SECONDARY ELECTRON EMISSION BY WHISKERS
Authors: JEON D. , LEE S. W. , BAIK Y. J.
Published: September 2003

Diamond whiskers were formed by etching diamond thin films using metal clusters as a shadow mask, which were deposited on the diamond film before or during etching. The whiskers were as thin as 100 nm and the density was as high as 1010/ cm 2. The secondary electron emission yield of the diamond whiskers was significantly reduced as compared to the initial diamond film. The decrease in the yield was more significant if the primary electrons were impinged in parallel direction with the whiskers. We suggest that absorption of the secondary electrons in the narrow gap between the whiskers was the reason for the decreased yield.
SYNTHESIS AND PROPERTIES OF MESO-TETRAARYL RHODIUM PORPHYRIN WITH AN AXIAL LIGAND OF MOLECULAR WIRE
Authors: SATO HIROKAZU , SENBARA ERI , OGAWA TAKUJI
Published: September 2003

Tetra-meso-substituted rhodium(III) porphyrins with axial ligand of molecular wire were synthesized for the first time to demonstrate the preparation of self-standing molecule for measuring a single electron conductivity using scanning tunneling microscope technique. The self-standing structure of molecular wire was confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis. Cyclic and pulse voltammograms of each compound were measured, and these results indicated that we can freely change the energy level of self-standing molecule and estimate it by using voltammetric measurement.
SYNTHESIS OF ZnS:Mn2+ NANOCRYSTALS AND LUMINESCENCE PROPERTIES OF LDPE FILM CONTAINING ZnS:Mn2+
Authors: JEON HO-JU , KANG YOUNG SOO
Published: September 2003

The manganese-doped ZnS ( ZnS:Mn 2+) nanocrystals were prepared by addition of Na 2 S to an Zinc Oleate and Mn ( NO 3)2 solution. It was done using auto-clave method. The aging in auto-clave resulted in Mn 2+-doped ZnS particle. The emitting band ZnS:Mn 2+ showed red-shift from that of ZnS and results in the emission band at 500 nm ~ 650 nm (λ max =575 nm ). ZnS:Mn 2+ particles dispersed in polymer for production of the green house films. So this film will be used as light wavelength modification materials for the utilization of plant growth acceleration. Luminescence properties of the film were measured by luminescence spectrometer.
PROPERTIES OF ZnO NANOTETRAPODS
Authors: KANG JUNYONG , XU FUCHUN , ZHANG XIANHUA , ZHENG LANSUN , SEKIGUCHI TAKASHI , TSUNEKAWA SHIN , ITOH SHUN , KASUYA ATSUO
Published: September 2003

ZnO nanotetrapods were synthesized by microwave plasma. The nanotetrapod structures were imaged to be straight with diameters in the range of 10 to 25 nm and lengths up to 160 nm by transmission electron microscopes (TEM). The dark field images and lattice fringes of high resolution TEM show that the crystal orientation or structure of the core is different from that of the legs. The Auger electron peak of Zn shifts more distinctly to lower energy in the legs, which indicates the degree difference of bond ionicity between the core and leg. Cathodoluminescence spectrum of a single ZnO nanotetrapod is characterized by a stronger ultraviolet emission without broad emission bands in its lower energy side. This result further suggests that ZnO nanotetrapods are free from defects.
DEEP UV PHOTOPATTERNING OF SELF-ASSEMBLED MONOLAYER AND ITS APPLICATION IN BIOELECTRONIC DEVICE
Authors: OH SE YOUNG , JIE HANG SOK , CHOI HYUNG SEOK , CHOI JEONG WOO
Published: September 2003

The photopatterning process of self-assembled monolayer has been used as template for fabricating biomolecular microstructures. Alkanethiolates formed by the adsorption of 1-octanethiol molecules on a gold substrate were oxidized by the irradiation of deep UV light and then developed with deionized water. The resulting positive patterned substrate was immersed into a dilute ethanolic solution of 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid (11-MUDA). Cytochrome c monolayers were immobilized onto the patterned gold substrate by self-assembly technique and their electrochemical properties were investigated through the measurements of cyclic voltammetry. Also, I–V characteristics of biomolecular multilayers consisting of cytochrome c and green fluorescent protein (GFP) were studied with a scanning tunneling microscope (STM).
PREPARATION OF HOLLOW STRUCTURES COMPOSED OF TITANIA NANOCRYSTAL ASSEMBLY
Authors: FUJIKAWA SHIGENORI , KUNITAKE TOYOKI
Published: September 2003

A novel procedure to fabricate nanoarchitectures of crystalline titania hollow shells was developed by using assembled latex particles as templates. Latex particles were assembled on the surface of solid substrates and covered with ultrathin titania films by the surface sol–gel process. When the titania-covered latex particle was subjected to oxygen plasma treatment, hollow titania spheres were formed at the original site of particle deposition. Following calcination of the amorphous, titania hollow shells induced their crystallization to titania nanocrystals (anatase).
NONLINEAR OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF SEVERAL π-CONJUGATED SYSTEMS INCLUDING NITROGEN ATOMS
Authors: YAMADA SATORU , NAKANO MASAYOSHI , TAKAHATA MASAHIRO , YAMAGUCHI KIZASHI
Published: September 2003

Static second hyperpolarizability (γ) of 1,4-phenylendiamine and 4,4'-diaminodiphenylamine in neutral and dicationic states are investigated as model systems of dendritic structure. Expansion of π-conjugation is found to significantly enhance the γ value of the neutral model system. Charged defect in the present system is found to have a remarkable influence on the magnitude and sign of static γ in the direction of π-conjugation.
AC ELECTRIC-FIELD-INDUCED ORIENTATION OF POLAR ORGANIC NANOCRYSTAL IN DISPERSE SYSTEM
Authors: ONODERA T. , YOSHIDA M. , OKAZOE S. , FUJITA S. , KASAI H. , OKADA S. , OIKAWA H. , NAKANISHI H.
Published: September 2003

Monodispersed DAST nanocrystals have almost been successfully fabricated by means of the inverse reprecipitation method. By employing AC electric field, high electric field of above ca. 1.0 kVcm -1 could be applied to polar DAST nanocrystals dispersed in decahydronaphthalene, so as to avoid electrophoresis of nanocrystals under DC electric field. The response of DAST nanocrystal dispersion to applied AC electric field was analyzed phenomenologically by fitting Langevin function, which provided a large permanent dipole moment of DAST nanocrystal. In addition, we have succeeded in in situ observation of AC electric-field-induced orientational motion of DAST crystals by using an optical microscope. The present DAST nanocrystal dispersion system will be expected as an optical device like display monitor.
Competence Visualizer: Generating Competence Patterns of Project Groups
Authors: Lindgren Rikard
Published: September 2003

This paper describes and evaluates the design of competence visualizer (CV), which is a competence system generating competence patterns of project groups. The system provides novel features that: (1) make it possible to survey competence status of teams in different sizes at a specific moment; (2) handle information about both existing competencies and competence interests; and (3) manage snapshots of a particular point of time and development over a certain period regarding existing competencies and competence interests. The results from the system evaluation include fields of application, future design challenges, and organizational issues. A first conclusion is that competence systems need the potential to handle flexible visualizations of existing competencies as well as competence interests of organizational members. A second conclusion is that organizational issues, such as incentives and management, are critical in order to attain data quality in a competence system.
Knowledge Management Practices and Attitudes of IT Departments: Do They Practise What They Preach?
Authors: Pervan Graham , Ellison Ruth
Published: September 2003

Much research has been conducted on knowledge management (KM) in order to improve the organisations handle this valuable resource. Little is known, however, of how the providers of the knowledge management technologies, the organisation's IT people, handle their own KM. This study focuses on how IT departments and people "practise what they preach" in this area. A survey was conducted among large organisations, which reveals that there is a recognised need for KM, but it is not part of their formal goals. There are many KM technologies in use, however, and a positive. attitude exists towards their adoption in the IT departments of these organisations.
Enterprise Knowledge Discovery and Management Using Semantic Knowledge Processing Technology
Authors: Veryha Yauheni
Published: September 2003

This paper presents an implementation framework for enterprise knowledge discovery and management using semantic knowledge processing technology. The developed solution gives the possibility of effectively organizing, controlling and updating knowledge portal content using the company's expertise and available semantic knowledge processing tools. The key concept has been to introduce blocking databases for filtering knowledge content returned from semantic knowledge processing tools with subject-action-object (SAO) knowledge presentation model. The architecture of the enterprise knowledge management solution and the example of using blocking databases with "CoBrain" semantic knowledge processing tool have been presented.
Frontiers for the Codification of Knowledge
Authors: Barachini Franz
Published: September 2003

Although knowledge management techniques have been discussed and developed substantially during the last several years, only moderate success has been reported in terms of measurable business results. We show how human information exchange can be mapped to the investment processes of the modern portfolio theory. We argue that the presented theory is the major reason for the rather limited success of the computer-based techniques used for codifying knowledge. The theory should be taken into account during the implementation of knowledge management programs.
Power-Maps for Organizational Change: Foucault's Archaeology as a Hypothetical Model for Mapping Strategies of Power and Resistance
Authors: Chay-Németh Constance
Published: September 2003

This paper explores techniques for maximizing organizational performance via the mapping of organizational knowledge and strategies of power. It explores the nexus between knowledge and strategies of power, envisioning knowledge as a practice of power embodied in organizational discourses. In order to trace organizational power-maps, Foucault's Archaeology of Knowledge is adopted as a hypothetical model for mapping strategies of power and resistance embedded in organizational knowledge. It is hoped that this knowledge of how power and resistance operate will enable organizations to position and plan policies when organizational change and restructuring are desired. The essay provides guidelines on how to conduct Archaeology and concludes by suggesting potential ways in which Archaeology may be applied by organizations.
Cultural Dimensions of Information Management
Authors: Oliver Gillian
Published: September 2003

Organisational culture plays a significant role when considering the management of information. The culture of individual organisations is influenced by national culture, and this paper considers the literature relating to the various cultural models. Particular attention is paid to Hofstede's dimensions and the implications of them for information management are suggested.
Taxonomy-Building Tools: An Investigative Study
Authors: Sia Chin Lan , Al-Hawamdeh Suliman
Published: September 2003

Creating topic hierarchies that can be mapped to the source documents provide effective access to the required information. However, the exponential growth in the volume of information may be too overwhelming for manual approach to taxonomy building. Taxonomy software, with automated approach, but minimal human intervention, easy integration with other products, and effective taxonomy maintenance utility provide a practical and efficient solution. Many vendors serving this market segment offer a wide range of approaches and solutions, such as Semio, Autonomy, Verity, Quiver, Inxight, and SmartLogik. The aim of this study is to identify different types of taxonomy-building tools available in the market and study their features and characteristics. The selection criteria was based on the availability of an evaluation copy from the vendor along with detailed information about the products such as product manuals, white papers, and product data sheets. The findings showed that most taxonomy- building tools share common features such as hierarchical structures of the taxonomy (depth of the taxonomy), taxonomy maintenance, multiple taxonomy views (cross-referencing support), import/export utilities, taxonomy presentation and access (access points to the information), and being language independent (multilingual support). The results also revealed that visualization tools, personalization, product integration and industry-specific taxonomies were the value-added features to the taxonomy software.
A Framework for Knowledge Management Implementation
Authors: Chua Alton
Published: September 2003

Knowledge management, as a distinct discipline, has increasingly gained the attention of both practitioners and academics in recent years. However, even with the proliferation of knowledge management literature, an interested manager would still find that the process of implementing knowledge management is an elusive one. For this reason, this paper seeks to review recent knowledge management literatures with the aim of developing an integrated perspective on implementing knowledge management projects. This paper explains briefly the fundamental concepts of knowledge management, examines the seven fundamental archetypes of knowledge management implementation strategies and surveys the various categories of technology tools used in knowledge management. A framework for choosing the appropriate knowledge management implementation archetypes and the technology tools is developed. The framework is driven by two parameters, namely, the predominant knowledge form and the goals of knowledge management, and it guides managers in charting the initial direction of knowledge management projects in their organisations.
Chemical preparation and crystal data for two new cyclotriphosphates MIIK4(P3O9)2 (MII=Co2+ and Mn2+)
Authors: Sbai Kacem , Tridane Malika , Abouimrane Ali , Belaaouad Saïd , Cherqaoui Abdelouahed
Published: September 2003

Methods of chemical preparation and crystal data are reported for two new anhydrous cyclotriphosphates MIIK4(P3O9)2 (MII=Co2+ and Mn2+). These anhydrous cyclotriphosphates CoK4(P3O9)2 and MnK4(P3O9)2 were obtained by total dehydration of corresponding hydrated cyclotriphosphates CoK4(P3O9)2.7H2O and MnK4(P3O9)2.2H2O. CoK4(P3O9)2 is triclinic, space group P−1, Z=1 with the following unit-cell dimensions: a=6.29(3) Å, b=8.00(1)Å, c=13.05(8)Å, α=86.03(5)°, β=98.00(1)°, γ=68.11(2)°. MnK4(P3O9)2 crystallizes in the rhombohedral system, space group P−31c, Z=2 with the following unit-cell dimensions: a=b=7.337(3)Å, c=19.920(1)Å.
Structural data of a cobalt molybdate type Φx
Authors: Palacio Luz Amparo , Echavarría Adriana , Saldarriaga Carlos
Published: September 2003

A new cobalt molybdate with the formula NaCo2OH(H2O)(MoO4)2 was synthesized by hydrothermal reaction at 200 °C and was found to possess the Φx type structure. The crystalline system of this material is monoclinic and its cell parameters are a=9.3792 (2), b=6.3331 (1), c=7.6281 (2) Å and β=115.832°, obeying the C2/m space group symmetry.
Crystal data for CaNa-iminodisulphonate, trihydrate
Authors: Rasmussen Svend Erik , Grundvig Sidsel , Lundtoft Britta , Fogh Folmer
Published: September 2003

Calcium sodium iminodisulphonate trihydrate was first described by Divers and Haga [J. Chem. Soc. 943–968, (1892)]. It has recently been found as one of several crystalline products resulting from the removal of sulphur dioxide from flue gas. It has not so far been included in the ICCD powder diffraction file.
Characterization of nickel doped Zn7Sb2O12 spinel phase using Rietveld refinement
Authors: Gama L. , Paiva-Santos C. O. , Vila C. , Lisboa-Filho P. N. , Longo E.
Published: September 2003

Zn7Sb2O12 is known to adopt an inverse spinel crystal structure, in which Zn2+ occupies the eight tetrahedral positions and Sb5+ and Zn2+ randomly occupy the 16 octahedral positions. Samples of Zn7−xNixSb2O12 (x=0, 1, 2, 3, and 4) were synthesized using a modified polymeric precursor method, known as the Pechini method. The crystal structure of the powders was characterized by Rietveld refinement with X-ray diffraction data. The results show that for x=0, 1, and 2 Ni substitutes for Zn2+ in the octahedral sites, and that for x=3 and 4 it is assumed that Ni2+ replaces Zn2+ ions in both the octahedral and tetrahedral positions. It is also observed for x=3 and 4 the formation of two spinel phases.
Chemical preparation and crystal data for two hydrated cyclotriphosphates SrMIP3O9⋅3H2O and their corresponding anhydrous SrMIP3O9 (MI=K+ and Tl+)
Authors: Sbai Kacem , El Kababi Khadija , Belaaouad Saïd
Published: September 2003

Methods of chemical preparation and crystal data are reported for four new condensed phosphates: two hydrated cyclotriphosphates with a general formula SrMIP3O9⋅3H2O (MI=K+,Tl+) and their corresponding anhydrous cyclotriphosphates SrMIP3O9 (MI=K+,Tl+). The two hydrated condensed phosphates, SrKP3O9⋅3H2O and SrTlP3O9⋅3H2O, belong to previously investigated structure types. SrKP3O9⋅3H2O and SrTlP3O9⋅3H2O are orthorhombic, Z=4, space group Pnma, with respectively the following unit-cell dimensions: a=9.082(2) Å, b=8.133(2) Å, c=15.009(2) Å, M(20)=49, F(25)=61(0.0052;79) and a=9.115(7) Å, b=8.139(7) Å, c=15.221(2) Å, M(20)=285, F(30)=522(0.000 411;140). SrKP3O9 and SrTlP3O9 are monoclinic, space group P21/m or P21, Z=4, with, respectively, the following unit-cell dimensions: a=14.957(1) Å, b=8.372(1) Å, c=7.909(1) Å, β=102.27(1)°, M(20)=81, F(24)=95(0.000 025;92) and a=14.544(2) Å, b=8.639(1) Å, c=7.727(1) Å, β=102.05(1)°, M(20)=66, F(30)=78(0.003 098;125).
X-ray powder diffraction analysis of the heteropoly-molybdate (MoO2)0.5PMo14O42
Authors: Marosi L. , Cifré J. , Areán C. Otero
Published: September 2003

The new heteropoly blue compound (MoO2)0.5PMo14O42, which is relevant in the context of catalytic activity of heteropoly-molybdates, was prepared by controlled thermolysis of (NH4)3PMo12O40 at 730 K in a nitrogen atmosphere. Powder X-ray diffraction analysis showed that this compound has a cubic unit cell, space group Pn3m (No. 224), with ao=11.795(2) Å, Z=2 and DXR=4.2466 g cm−3. Computer modeling and Rietveld analysis of powder diffraction patterns led to a proposed structure of the corresponding Keggin-cage unit PMo14O42.
Powder diffraction data for the new aliphatic-aromatic thiodiols
Authors: Pikus S. , Olszewska E. , Podkościelny W. , Rogulska M. , Kultys A.
Published: September 2003

Five new aliphatic-aromatic thiodiols: 1,2-bis[4-(2′-hydroxyethylthio)phenyl]ethane (C18H22O2S2), 1,2-bis[4-(3′-hydroxypropylthio)phenyl]ethane (C20H26O2S2), 1,2-bis[4-(6′-hydroxyhexylthio)phenyl]ethane (C26H38O2S2), 1,2-bis[4-(10′-hydroxydecylthio)phenyl]ethane (C34H54O2S2), 1,2-bis[4-(11′-hydroxyundecylthio)phenyl]ethane (C36H58O2S2) have been characterized by X-ray powder diffraction. These thiodiols can be used for synthesis of thermoplastic nonsegmented polyurethanes. Experimental 2θ peaks positions, relative peak intensities, values of d and Miller indices as well as unit cell parameters are reported.
Crystal structure of anhydrous δ-D-mannitol
Authors: Botez C. E. , Stephens P. W. , Nunes C. , Suryanarayanan R.
Published: September 2003

The crystal structure of anhydrous δ-D-mannitol (C6H14O6) was solved from high-resolution synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction data collected on a mixture containing 20% and 80% w/w of β- and δ-D-mannitol, respectively. The direct space simulated annealing program PSSP, and Rietveld analysis employing GSAS were used to determine and refine the structure. The polymorph has monoclinic symmetry, space group P21 with a=5.089 41(5) Å, b=18.2504(2) Å, c=4.917 02(5) Å, and β=118.303(2)°. There is one molecule in the irreducible volume of the unit cell. The pattern of hydrogen bonding is significantly different than the previously known α and β forms.
A powder X-ray diffraction study of lead chloride oxalate Pb2Cl2(C2O4):ab initiostructure determination and thermal behavior
Authors: Boudaren Chaouki , Auffrédic Jean-Paul , Louër Michèle , Louër Daniel
Published: September 2003

Mixed lead chloride oxalate, Pb2Cl2(C2O4), has been obtained in a polycrystalline form in the course of a study on precursors of nanocrystalline PZT-type oxides. Its crystal structure has been solvedab initiofrom powder diffraction data collected using a monochromatic radiation from a conventional X-ray source. The symmetry is monoclinic, space groupC2/m, the cell dimensions area=5.9411(3) Å,b=5.8714(4) Å,c=9.4212(4) Å, β=95.232(4)° and Z=2. The structure consists of a stacking of complex double sheets, built from lead polyhedra, parallel to (001) and connected together through oxalate groups. The lead atom is nine-fold coordinated by four O atoms from one bidentate and two monodentate oxalate groups and five Cl atoms. The polyhedron can be described as a highly distorted square antiprism mono-capped by a Cl atom. The thermal behavior of lead chloride oxalate, in vacuum and in air, is carefully described from temperature-dependent powder diffraction and thermogravimetric measurements. It is shown that reaction pathways are complicated by the identification of various oxide chloride phases.
FWHM optimized polynomial smoothing filters: A practical approach
Authors: Dinnebier Robert E.
Published: September 2003

A modified method for polynomial smoothing and the calculation of derivatives of equally spaced step scan powder diffraction data is presented. The algorithm takes the angular dependence of the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of diffraction peaks into account, is very effective, and easy to code.
X-ray powder diffraction data of 4-N-(4-methylphenyl)amino- 4-(3′-pyridyl)-1-butene
Authors: Poveda J. C. , Henao J. A. , Vargas L. Y. , Kouznetsov V. V.
Published: September 2003

The X-ray powder diffraction pattern for a new precursor in the synthesis of pyridyl tetrahydroquinolines was determined. 4-N-(4-methylphenyl)amine-4-(3′-pyridyl)-1-butene is monoclinic with refined unit cell parameters a=16.554(5), b=7.204(2), c=12.257(3) Å, β=99.76(2)°, V=1440.5(4) Å3, Z=4, and Dx=1.098 g/cm3, with space group P21/n (No. 14).
X-ray powder diffraction data of potassium μ-Oxo-bis(oxodiperoxovanadate)(4-) hydrate K4[O{VO(O2)2}2]H2O
Authors: Grzywa Maciej , Rafalska-Łasocha A. , Łasocha Wielsaw
Published: September 2003

The potassium μ-Oxo-bis(oxodiperoxovanadate)(4-) hydrate K4[O{VO(O2)2}2]*H2O was prepared, and its X-ray powder diffraction patterns have been recorded at room temperature. The unit cell parameters were refined to a=6.7097(1) Å, b=9.9574(1) Å, c=15.8250(3) Å, β=93.69(6)°, space group P21/c (14). The sample of K4V2O11*H2O was characterized by IR spectroscopy and analytical investigation. Results of crystal structure refinement by Rietveld method are presented; final RF and Rwp are 13 and 16%, respectively.
X-ray powder diffraction data of A-formula lanthanum and titanium substituted lead zirconate
Authors: Breval Else , Wonderling Nichole , Dougherty Joseph P.
Published: September 2003

PLZT of the compositions 0≤L≤12, and 0≤T≤10 was studied in order to describe the structure of the phases as a function of composition. This range contains a mixed region with PLZT+La2Zr2O7, an orthorhombic, a rhombohedral (hexagonal) phase, a tetragonal phase, and a mixture of different PLZT phases. Each phase pure composition is described by X-ray diffraction.
X-ray powder diffraction study of defect-tetrahedral structure quaternary compound CuZnGa3Te6
Authors: Rashmi
Published: September 2003

Quaternary compound CuZnGa3Te6 was synthesized by the melt and anneal technique. The defect-tetrahedral structure compound crystallized in the tetragonal unit cell with possible space group I4 and Z=4/3. Complete powder diffraction data were obtained and unit cell parameters a and c, and X-ray density were calculated. These were a=0.5946(2) nm, c=1.1891(5) nm, and Dx=5.81×103 kg/m3.
X-ray powder diffraction studies of aniline derivatives
Authors: Rafalska-Łasocha A. , Łasocha W.
Published: September 2003

The X-ray powder diffraction patterns of two liquid aniline derivatives o-chloroaniline, and m-chloroaniline were measured at 250 °K in a low temperature chamber. Both compounds crystallize in the orthorhombic system with the unit cell parameters refined to a=1.8391(3) nm, b=1.0357(2) nm, c=0.6092(1) nm, space group Pmmm(47) and a=0.450 39(9) nm, b=1.9820(4) nm, c=1.2699(4) nm, space group Pcca(54) for o-chloroaniline and m-chloroaniline, respectively. Investigated at room temperature, 2,6-dichloroaniline crystallizes in the monoclinic system, space group P21/c(14), a=1.1329(2) nm, b=0.41093(8) nm, c=1.5445(3) nm, α=γ=90° β=99.96(2)°.
The Regulation of Pubertal Growth
Authors: Styne Dennis M.
Published: September 2003

To understand the regulation of pubertal growth, it is important to understand the present concept of the control of the onset of puberty, the change in secretion of sex steroids during puberty, and the effects of these various factors upon the production and action of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor (IGF). Nutrition plays a major role in this process because states of aberrant nutrition severely affect pubertal growth. In this article, all of these concepts will be discussed, including the effect of these factors upon bone growth during the increase in stature accomplished during puberty.
Pubertal Growth Assessment
Authors: Karlberg Johan , Kwan Chi-wai , Gelander Lars , Albertsson-Wikland Kerstin
Published: September 2003

Almost all available sets of height growth reference values are constructed in a cross-sectional manner, except for a few studies in which longitudinal sampling was used. Such reference values are, however, flawed because of considerable individual variation in the timing of puberty, especially among children with early or late pubertal maturation. An additional complicating factor is that the magnitude of the total pubertal growth spurt is significantly larger among those individuals with early pubertal maturation, compared with late maturation. Based on the growth records of 145 healthy Swedish children followed longitudinally, this study introduces a pre-pubertal standard for the assessment of pre-pubertal height for children with late onset of puberty. By plotting the height values of a child in a chart containing pre-pubertal reference values, the onset of the pubertal growth spurt can be identified by a change in the pre-pubertal height standard deviation score values of 0.3 standard deviations or more over a period of 1 year. Once the pubertal onset is established, a highly accurate final height prediction method can be applied to the data, as described in this article, in which height and age at pubertal onset are the only two measures required. The r2 value of the prediction model was over 0.80 for both sexes. Finally, a method for assessing total pubertal height gain is presented. The method adjusts for the timing of puberty and is based on the height and age at pubertal onset, plus the observed final height.
Pubertal Changes in Biochemical Markers of Growth
Authors: Federico Giovanni , Baroncelli Giampiero I. , Vanacore Teresa , Fiore Lisa , Saggese Giuseppe
Published: September 2003

Puberty is a crucial period of life during which dramatic hormonal changes induce notable modifications in linear growth, bone mass and body composition. These changes are associated with variations in some biochemical parameters such as markers of bone turnover and leptin, which may reflect changes in bone growth and fat mass, respectively. Children with growth hormone (GH) deficiency have reduced concentrations of bone markers, which increase during GH administration, while the levels of leptin decrease. There have been few studies analysing the behaviour of bone markers during puberty in GH-treated GH-deficient patients and no studies analysing the behaviour of leptin. Results from a longitudinal study showed that there was no change in serum osteocalcin, carboxy-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen, and cross-linked carboxy-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen levels during puberty in GH-treated GH-deficient children. Some studies have shown that changes in markers of bone turnover and leptin after short-term GH treatment may predict the growth response (at 6–12 months) to GH administration in GH-deficient children. At present, insufficient data are available for the clinical use of these parameters as markers of growth response during pubertal development and as predictors of long-term growth response to GH treatment in children with GH deficiency. Nevertheless, the use of more and possibly new markers might improve the accuracy of growth prediction models in the future.
A Tripeptidyl Ensemble Perspective of Interactive Control of Growth Hormone Secretion
Authors: Veldhuis Johannes D.
Published: September 2003

Current investigational tools in molecular biology, biochemistry and integrative physiology have revealed an increasing array of signals that influence growth hormone (GH) secretion. The present perspective combines these factors under a simplified final-common pathway model of threefold joint control by GH-releasing hormone, GH-releasing peptide/ghrelin and somatostatin. This concept is highlighted from the viewpoint of sex steroid- and age-dependent modulation of the peptide trilogy listed above.
Aspects of Growth Hormone (GH) Replacement in Elderly Patients with GH Deficiency: Data from KIMS
Authors: Monson John P. , Jönsson Peter
Published: September 2003

This study was designed to examine the clinical characteristics of adult-onset growth hormone deficiency (AO-GHD) in patients aged over 65 years in comparison with patients aged less than 65 years. In addition, the effects of 12 months of GH replacement therapy on body composition, carbohydrate metabolism, blood pressure, serum lipids and quality of life were compared between patients aged over 65 years and patients under 45 years, 45–55 years and 55–65 years of age. The investigation was an observational study of patients enrolled in KIMS (Pharmacia International Metabolic Database). Baseline clinical characteristics were qualitatively similar, and scores from the Assessment of Quality of Life in GH-deficient Adults questionnaire (QoL-AGHDA) were indistinguishable between patients aged over 65 years and younger patients. Improvements in QoL-AGHDA scores were similar in all age groups during GH replacement therapy. Significant reductions in total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were observed in all groups and tended to be greater in patients aged over 65 years. Waist circumference and waist:hip ratio were not influenced by GH replacement therapy in women aged over 65 years, which was in contrast to the reductions observed in younger male and female patients and the decrease in waist circumference observed in men aged over 65 years. The similarities and differences in response to GH replacement therapy between patients aged over 65 years and those aged less than 65 years remained evident when the latter group was stratified by age. In conclusion, older patients with AO-GHD who receive GH replacement therapy achieve beneficial effects equivalent to those seen in younger patients in all age groups and require lower doses of GH.
Quantitative Real-Time RT-PCR for Detection of Circulating Prostate-Specific Antigen mRNA Using Sequence-Specific Oligonucleotide Hybridization Probes in Prostate Cancer Patients
Authors: Straub Bernd , Müller Markus , Krause Hans , Schrader Mark , Miller Kurt
Published: September 2003

Objective: A great number of studies have failed thus far to demonstrate that the presence of PSA-expressing tumor cells in the blood of prostate cancer (PC) patients is a highly sensitive prognostic marker, particularly after radical prostatectomy (RPX). These studies have only relied on qualitative or semiquantitative detection techniques, however. We report our initial experience in testing real-time RT-PCR for the detection of PSA mRNA using a quantitative online PCR system, the LightCyclerTM, and sequence-specific oligonucleotide hybridization probes. Methods: Blood samples were obtained before and after surgery from 129 patients undergoing RPX for localized PC and from 19 patients undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Quantitative RT-PCR for the detection PSA mRNA was performed using the LightCycler system with RNA Amplification Kit Hybridization Probes and sequence-specific oligonucleotide hybridization probes. Results: PSA mRNA was detected by the LightCycler in 28 patients (39%) with pT2 tumors, in 22 patients (38%) with >pT2 tumors, but in only 3 patients (16%) with BPH. The mean values of the LNCaP cell equivalents were higher in >pT2 patients than in pT2 patients (37 × 103 and 104 × 103) or BPH patients (7.1 × 103 and 4.8 × 103) both preoperatively (333 × 103/ml blood) and postoperatively (545 × 103). Conclusion: Real-time RT-PCR with the LightCycler appears to be a promising method for the preoperative detection of circulating LNCaP tumor cells in PC as reflected by PSA mRNA. Considering the low detection rates in BPH patients, the method may also be suitable for patient monitoring after RPX and could thus play an important role in deciding on early radiotherapy or even hormone ablation therapy. Additional long-term follow-up will have to show whether patients with high expression of PSA mRNA actually have an increased risk or recurrence and whether the method is suitable as well to detect progression.
Salvage Radiotherapy in Patients with Persisting Prostate-Specific Antigen after Radical Prostatectomy for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Bottke Dirk , Wiegel Thomas , Höcht Stefan , Müller Markus , Schostak Martin , Hinkelbein Wolfgang
Published: September 2003

Salvage radiotherapy in patients with persisting prostate-specific antigen (PSA) after radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer offers an approach to reduce local recurrence rates and to improve the rate of biochemical freedom from relapse. 30–70% of these patients experience a decrease in their PSA to an undetectable range; in about 40–50% of these patients, PSA remains stable after 5 years. Therefore, radiation therapy offers these patients an ultimate chance of cure. The pre-irradiation PSA value is of particular importance. The PSA level should not exceed 2 ng/ml because otherwise the rate of distant metastases increases significantly. Serious side effects are apparently low, thus confirming the suitability of this therapeutic approach.
Neoadjuvant Hormonal Treatment and Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wachter Stefan , Wachter-Gerstner Natascha , Pötter Richard
Published: September 2003

Adjuvant hormone treatment with radiotherapy has been demonstrated in two studies (Bolla and RTOG 8531) to be beneficial in patients with locally advanced prostate cancer. However, the vast majority of patients with early prostate cancer can be cured with radiotherapy alone. Subset analysis combining RTOG 8610 and RTOG 8531 has demonstrated a survival benefit only for patients with a biopsy Gleason score ≤6 after short-term neoadjuvant hormonal therapy. The results of ongoing research will further clarify the use of hormone treatment with radiotherapy in patients with low and intermediate risk.
Perception of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy by Patients and Examiners with and without Background Music
Authors: Binek Janek , Sagmeister Markus , Borovicka Jan , Knierim Matthias , Magdeburg Bernhard , Meyenberger Christa
Published: September 2003

Background/Aims: Several studies have reported improved patient comfort with music in the preoperative setting, however music has seldom been assessed during gastrointestinal endoscopy. We aimed to assess how background music may influence the perception of patients and examiners involved in endoscopic examinations. Methods: 301 patients (128 females, 173 males; mean age 59 years) were included in the study (EGD and colonoscopy) in a prospective fashion. 90 EGD and 61 colonoscopies were performed with music (50.17%) and 102 EGD and 48 colonoscopies without music (49.83%). Patients, nurses and endoscopists completed a questionnaire. Results: No significant differences in demographic data were found between the patients examined with or without music. Tolerance to the examination, pain sensation and perception of the endoscopy room ambiance were similar in both groups. The majority of patients (83.4%) expressed a preference for music during any future endoscopic examination and none perceived the music as disturbing. During the 151 examinations, music was considered unpleasant in 14 examinations by the physicians (9.3%) and in 11 examinations by the nurses (7.3%). Conclusions: Music has little influence on patients’ experience of gastrointestinal endoscopy. Nevertheless, the majority of patients felt music to be helpful and expressed a preference for music during any future examination. This positive attitude to music of patients is in contrast with the assessment of some endoscopists and nurses.