bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deposit architecture and dynamics of the 2006 block‐and‐ash flows of Merapi Volcano, Java, Indonesia
Authors: CHARBONNIER SYLVAIN J. , GERTISSER RALF
Published: March 2011

The internal architecture of the 2006 block‐and‐ash flow deposits of Merapi volcano (Java, Indonesia) was investigated using data collected from 27 stratigraphic sections measured immediately after flow emplacement, and after one and two rainy seasons of erosion. Identification of different depositional units and their longitudinal and lateral facies variations provide detailed information about: (i) the distribution, volumes and sedimentological characteristics of the different units; (ii) flow types and mobility as inferred from associated deposits; and (iii) changes in the dynamics of the different flows and their material during emplacement. Two main types of block‐and‐ash flows (short‐runout to medium‐runout block‐and‐ash flows and long‐runout block‐and‐ash flows) are defined based on flow generation mechanism, flow volume, travel distance, deposit morphology, distribution, lithology and grain‐size distribution. Conceptual models for the transport and depositional mechanisms of these two types of block‐and‐ash flows are presented. Variations in the runout distances observed for short‐runout to medium‐runout block‐and‐ash flows are linked directly to different initial flow volumes, degree of fragmentation and material properties of the moving mass during transport, with the largest and finer grained flows having the greatest mobility. Deposition occurs only over a narrow range of basal inclinations close to the angle of repose for pyroclastic material, indicating that such flows behave in a similar way to granular‐free surface flows on unconfined planes. The flow mechanisms of long‐runout block‐and‐ash flows at Merapi are interpreted to be similar, in many respects, to unsteady, cohesionless grain flows with an inertial flow regime where collisional forces largely overcome frictional forces. Flow unsteadiness causes the main body to be segmented into different pulses that run closer to each other as the flow moves downslope. Deposition occurs stepwise, with rapid aggradation of stacked sub‐units from different parts of the major flow pulses. In such a model, the arrival of each flow pulse front at selected sites in the main river valley controls the generation and development of highly mobile, unconfined pyroclastic flows outside valley regions and their associated overbank deposits.
Analysis of intestinal fibrosis in chronic colitis in mice induced by dextran sulfate sodium
Authors: Suzuki Kenji , Sun Xiaomei , Nagata Masaki , Kawase Tomoyuki , Yamaguchi Hana , Sukumaran Vijayakumar , Kawauchi Yusuke , Kawachi Hiroshi , Nishino Takayoshi , Watanabe Kenichi , Yoneyama Hiroyuki , Asakura Hitoshi
Published: March 2011

Fibrogenic mesenchymal cells including fibroblasts and myofibroblasts play a key role in intestinal fibrosis, however, their precise role is largely unknown. To investigate their role in intestinal fibrosis, we analyzed the lesions of chronic colitis in C57BL/6 (B6) mice induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). B6 mice exposed to single cycle administration of DSS for 5 days developed acute colitis that progressed to severe chronic inflammation with dense infiltrates of mononuclear cells, irregular epithelial structure, thickening of colonic wall, and persistent deposits of collagen. Increased mRNA expressions of proinflammatory cytokines are correlated with extensive cellular infiltration, and the mRNA expressions of collagen 1, transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β, and matrix metalloproteinases were also enhanced in the colon. In the colon of chronic DSS colitis, fibroblasts (vimentin+, α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA)‐) were increased in both mucosal and submucosal layers, while myofibroblasts (vimentin+, α‐SMA+) were increased in mucosal but not in submucosal layers. Primary mouse subcutaneous fibroblast cultures experiments revealed that exogenously added TGF‐β 1 substantially augmented the expressions of both vimentin and α‐SMA proteins with increased production of collagen. In conclusion, profibrogenic mesenchymal cells play an important role in the development of intestinal fibrosis in this chronic DSS‐induced colitis model.
Post‐conflict health reconstruction: search for a policy
Authors: Rubenstein Leonard S.
Published: March 2011

Despite increasing experience in health reconstruction in societies emerging from conflict, the policy basis for investing in the development of equitable and effective health systems in the wake of war remains unsettled.1 Consideration of post‐conflict health reconstruction is almost entirely absent in donor policies on global health. Practically by default, health programmes are seen increasingly as an element of stabilisation and security interventions in the aftermath of armed conflict. That perspective, however, lacks an evidence base and can skew health programmes towards short‐term security and stabilisation goals that have a marginal impact and violate the principles of equity, non‐discrimination, and quality, which are central to sound health systems and public acceptance of them. A better approach is to ground policy in legitimacy, viewing health both as a core social institution and one that, if developed according to human rights principles, including equity, non‐discrimination, participation and accountability, can advance the effectiveness and the quality of governance in the emerging state.
Straw Men and Political Philosophy: The Case of Hobbes
Authors: Parkin Jon
Published: March 2011

This article examines the character of straw men as deployed by political and moral philosophers, using the example of politically motivated responses to the work of Thomas Hobbes. It attempts to give an Oakeshottian account of what is distinctive about the form of straw arguments within political philosophy before going on to identify some examples drawn from the reception of Hobbes' work. In the final section, discussion of the function of straw men points to their emancipatory role in the process of developing political theory. The article closes by drawing attention to the under-appreciated role that straw men play within the tradition of Western political thought, and the implications of this thought for our understanding of continuity within that tradition.
The pharmaceuticalisation of society? A framework for analysis
Authors: Williams Simon J. , Martin Paul , Gabe Jonathan
Published: March 2011

Drawing on insights from both medical sociology and science and technology studies this article provides a critical analysis of the nature and status of pharmaceuticalisation in terms of the following key dimensions and dynamics: (i) the redefinition or reconfiguration of health ‘problems’ as having a pharmaceutical solution; (ii) changing forms of governance; (iii) mediation; (iv) the creation of new techno‐social identities and the mobilisation of patient or consumer groups around drugs; (v) the use of drugs for non‐medical purposes and the creation of new consumer markets; and, finally, (vi) drug innovation and the colonisation of health futures. Pharmaceuticalisation, we argue, is therefore best viewed in terms of a number of heterogeneous socio‐technical processes that operate at multiple macro‐levels and micro‐levels that are often only partial or incomplete. The article concludes by drawing out some broader conceptual and reflexive issues this raises as to how we might best understand pharmaceuticalisation, based on our analysis, as a framework for future sociological work in this field.
Clinical and diagnostic features of in situ melanoma and superficial spreading melanoma: a hospital based study
Authors: Rosina P. , Tessari G. , Giordano M.V. , Girolomoni G.
Published: March 2011

Background  Despite the incidence of in situ melanoma is continuously rising; few studies have investigated its clinical and diagnostic features.

Objective  To investigate clinical and diagnostic features of in situ melanoma compared to superficial spreading melanoma (SSM).

Methods  This is a hospital based, case‐control study. Ninety consecutive patients with an in situ melanoma and 90 age and gender matched patients with SSM were enrolled. Main outcome measures were differences in clinical signs that aroused suspicion of in situ melanoma, detection modalities (self‐detection vs. incidental detection by a physician), factors conditioning time between first noticing the suspect lesions and the physician visit.

Results  Median diameter of in situ melanoma was smaller than SSM (7.5 vs. 9.0 mm, P < 0.024), and 47.8% of in situ melanomas were smaller than 6 mm, in contrast to 25.6% of SSM (P < 0.002). In situ melanoma was mainly detected by a dermatologist (Odds Ratio 2.95 P = 0.018), and in patients with more than 10 melanocytic naevi (Odds Ratio 3.12, P = 0.008). Clinical factors independently associated to early request of dermatological consultation were age older than 45 years (Odds ratio 3.47, P = 0.002) and location of lesion in a difficult observation skin site (Odds ratio 4.20, P = 0.001), but not Breslow’s thickness.

Conclusions  Our findings show that in situ melanoma and SSM share similar clinical characteristics and early warning signs. However, in situ melanoma is smaller in size than SSM. This may have important implications for early diagnosis and prevention strategies.
Improved Survival and Function of Rat Cryopreserved Islets by Coculture With Sertoli Cells
Authors: Li Yang , Xue Wujun , Tian Xiaohui , Ding Xiaoming , Tian Puxun , Feng Xinshun , Song Yong , Luo Xiaohui , Liu Hongbao , Wang Xiaohong , Ding Chenguang
Published: March 2011

In order to investigate how to improve the function and survival of cryopreserved islets, we cocultured cryopreserved thawed rat islets with rat Sertoli cells. After thawing, the islets were divided into the Sertoli cell coculture group and the control group. Using light and transmission electron microscopes, we examined the morphology of islets and measured their apoptosis index (AI) and insulin release stimulation index (SI). Moreover, we measured apoptosis protein and mRNA by western‐blot and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and cytokine concentrations in supernatant by ELISA. We examined islet graft survival time in diabetic mice and detected insulin in grafts by immunohistochemistry. We found that the morphology, AI, and SI of the coculture group were all significantly improved. The relative expression levels of cleaved caspase‐3 P20, P11, and caspase‐7 in the coculture group were lower than those in the control group. Compared with the control group, the expression level of Bax was decreased, but that of Bcl‐2 was increased. After transplantation, islet survival in the coculture group was similar to that of fresh islets but longer than that in the control group. These results suggest that coculture with rat Sertoli cells significantly improves the yield and function of rat cryopreserved thawed islets by effectively reducing islet apoptosis.
Chief Executive Officer Incentives, Monitoring, and Corporate Risk Management: Evidence From Insurance Use
Authors: Adams Mike , Lin Chen , Zou Hong
Published: March 2011

Abstract

Corporate governance and risk management issues have received prominent publicity in recent years following several major company failures such as Bear Stearns and Lehman Brothers. While prior studies have examined this issue within the context of derivatives’ trading, little is known regarding the linkage between corporate governance and alternative corporate risk management activities such as insurance. Using a detailed firm survey conducted by the World Bank (2004), we examine the impacts of various governance monitoring mechanisms and chief executive officer (CEO) characteristics on the corporate insurance decision. Overall, our results suggest that both monitoring mechanisms and managerial incentives induce the corporate purchase of property insurance. However, the purchase of property insurance for managerial self‐interest is only prevalent in firms subject to lax monitoring, and the determinants of insurance purchases are more in line with the prediction of the economic theory in firms with strong monitoring. In addition, our study contributes a number of new insights into the determinants of corporate purchase of property insurance.
Effect of intracerebroventricular injections of prolactin‐releasing peptide on prolactin release and stress‐related responses in steers
Authors: KITAGAWA Sayuki , ABE Naoshige , SUTOH Madoka , KASUYA Etsuko , SUGITA Shoei , AOYAMA Masato , YAYOU Ken‐ichi
Published: March 2011

Some evidence suggests that there might be a species difference in the effect of intracerebroventricularly administered (ICV) prolactin‐releasing peptide (PrRP) between rodents and sheep. We compared the levels of cortisol (CORT) and prolactin (PRL), rectal temperature (RT) and behavioral responses to ICV bovine PrRP (bPrRP) in steers. ICV bPrRP (0.2, 2 and 20 nmol/200 µL) tended to evoke a dose‐related increase in CORT concentrations and 0.2 nmol of bPrRP induced transient increase in PRL concentrations. A significant time–treatment interaction was observed for the percent change of CORT (P < 0.05) and PRL (P < 0.05) from pre‐injection value. The time–treatment interaction for changes in RT was not significant (P = 0.50). There tended to be a difference among the four treatments in terms of maximum change in RT from the pre‐injection value between 0 and 90 min (P < 0.1). Stress‐related behavioral signs were not observed in the present experiment. These findings indicate that ICV bPrRP increased CORT and PRL levels, suggesting that central PrRP might participate in controlling the hypothalamo‐pituitary‐adrenal axis and PRL release in cattle, unlike sheep. In contrast, central PrRP is unlikely to be involved in controlling the behavior of this species because ICV bPrRP did not induce marked changes in their behavior.
A proximal genomic region of mouse chromosome 10 contains quantitative trait loci affecting fatness
Authors: ISHIKAWA Akira , TANAHASHI Takahisa , KODAMA Hiroyuki
Published: March 2011

Body weight and fatness are quantitative traits of agricultural and medical importance. In previous genome‐wide quantitative trait locus (QTL) analyses, two QTLs for body weight and weight gain at an early postnatal growth period were discovered on mouse chromosome 10 from a gene pool of wild subspecies mice, Mus musculus castaneus. In this study, we developed a congenic strain with an approximately 63‐Mb wild‐derived genomic region on which the two growth QTLs could be located, by recurrent backcrossing to the common inbred strain C57BL/6J. We compared body weights at 1–10 weeks of age, body weight gains at 1–3, 3–6 and 6–10 weeks, internal organ weights and body lengths between the congenic strain developed and C57BL/6J. Unfortunately, no effects of the two growth QTLs on body weights and weight gains were confirmed. However, at least two new QTLs affecting fatness traits were discovered within the introgressed congenic region. The wild‐derived allele at one QTL increased body mass index, whereas at another one it decreased white fat pad weight and adiposity index. Thus, the congenic mouse strain developed here is a useful model animal for understanding the genetic and molecular basis of fat deposition in livestock as well as humans.
Risk factors for diabetic retinopathy in a rural Chinese population with type 2 diabetes: the Handan Eye Study
Authors: Wang Feng Hua , Liang Yuan Bo , Peng Xiao Yan , Wang Jie Jin , Zhang Feng , Wei Wen Bin , Sun Lan Ping , Friedman David S. , Wang Ning Li , Wong Tien Yin ,   the Handan Eye Study Group
Published: March 2011

Purpose:  To describe risk factors associated with diabetic retinopathy (DR) in a population‐based sample of rural Chinese with type 2 diabetes.

Methods:  The Handan Eye Study is a population‐based cross‐sectional study surveyed 6830 Chinese people aged 30+ years from 13 randomly selected villages in 2006–2007. All participants underwent a standardized interview and extensive examinations including ophthalmologic and systemic conditions. Diabetic retinopathy was graded from fundus photographs according to the modified Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study classification system. Logistic regression models were used to assess risk factors associated with DR.

Results:  Of 7577 eligible persons, 6830 (90.4%) participated, of which 5597 (81.9%) had fasting plasma glucose (FPG) data. There were 387 (6.9%) participants with diabetes, and 368 (95.1%) had gradable fundus photographs. The age‐standardized prevalence of DR was 43.1%. In multivariable‐adjusted logistic regression models for all diabetic participants, independent risk factors for DR were longer duration of diabetes (odds ratio [OR] 3.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.94, 4.85, per 5 years of duration), higher FPG levels (OR 1.17; 95% CI: 1.08, 1.27, per mmol/l increase) and higher systolic blood pressure (OR 1.22; 95% CI: 1.08, 1.37, per 10 mmHg increase). For newly diagnosed diabetes, the only significant factor of DR was higher FPG levels (OR 1.17; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.29, per mmol/l increase).

Conclusions:  In rural Chinese persons with diabetes, longer diabetes duration, hyperglycaemia and elevated blood pressure are risk factors for DR. These findings underscore the importance of controlling classic risk factors for DR in developing countries, where diabetes prevalence is increasing.
The difference in kinematics of horses walking, trotting and cantering on a flat and banked 10 m circle
Authors: HOBBS S. J. , LICKA T. , POLMAN R.
Published: March 2011

Reasons for performing study:Locomotion adaptation mechanisms have been observed in horses, but little information is available in relation to banked and nonbanked curve locomotion, which might be important to optimise training environments.

Objectives:To determine if adaptation mechanisms in horses existed when moving on a banked compared to a flat curve and whether adaptation was similar in different gaits.

Methods:Eight infrared cameras were positioned on the outside of a 10 m lungeing circle and calibrated. Retroreflective markers were used to define left and right metacarpus (McIII) and proximal phalanges (P1), metatarsus (MtIII), head and sacrum. Data were recorded at 308 Hz from 6 horses lunged at walk, trot and canter on a flat and 10° banked circle in a crossover design. Measurements extracted were speed, stride length, McIII inclination, MtIII inclination, relative body inclination and duty factor. Data were smoothed with a fourth order Butterworth filter with 30 Hz cut‐off. ANOVA was used to determine differences between conditions and limbs.

Results:Adaptation mechanisms were influenced by gait. At canter inside forelimb duty factor was significantly longer (P<0.05) on a flat curve compared to a banked curve; at walk this was reversed. McIII inclination, MtIII inclination and relative body inclination were significantly greater (P<0.05) at trot and canter on a flat curve, so more inward tilt was found relative to the bearing surface.

Conclusion:Adaptation to curved motion is gait specific. At faster gaits it appears that horses negotiate a banked curve with limb posture closer to body posture and probably with demands on the musculoskeletal system more similar to straight canter.
Phosphorylated Neurofilament Heavy Chain Correlations to Visual Function, Optical Coherence Tomography, and Treatment
Authors: Pasol Joshua , Feuer William , Yang Cui , Shaw Gerry , Kardon Randy , Guy John
Published: March 2011

Objective. To correlate visual and neurologic clinical scores and treatment of optic neuritis and multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with assays of serum phosphorylated neurofilament heavy chain (pNF-H) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurements of axonal loss.Design/Methods. The Optic Neuritis Treatment Trial (ONTT) randomized 457 patients with acute optic neuritis to intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) followed by oral prednisone, oral prednisone or placebo treatment arms. We quantified serum pNF-H levels in 175 ONTT patients 5 years after study entry. We performed OCT measurements of macular volume and the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) in a subset of 51 patients at year 15.Results. Elevated pNF-H levels at year 5 correlated to poorer visual function at study entry. Lower 15 year macular volumes and RNFL thickness correlated better with follow-up than with baseline visual function measures. With IVMP treatment, 15 year RNFL differences of the fellow eye (FE) minus the affected eye (SE) RNFLFEmSE correlated with five-year pNF-H levels. PNF-H was reduced by half with IVMP relative to placebo or by 40% relative to prednisone.Conclusions/Relevance. Acute optic neuritis patients who have more severe visual loss during initial presentation have a higher incidence of axonal loss that was slightly suppressed with IVMP treatment.
Both IL-1β and TNF-α Regulate NGAL Expression in Polymorphonuclear Granulocytes of Chronic Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Arena Adriana , Stassi Giovanna , Iannello Daniela , Gazzara Domenica , Calapai Maria , Bisignano Carlo , Bolignano Davide , Lacquaniti Antonio , Buemi Michele
Published: March 2011

Background. NGAL is involved in modulation of the inflammatory response and is found in the sera of uremic patients. We investigated whether hemodiafiltration (HDF) could influence the ability of polymorphonuclear granulocytes (PMGs) to release NGAL. The involvement of interleukin- (IL-)1β and tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-)α on NGAL release was evaluated.Methods. We studied end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients at the start of dialysis (Pre-HDF) and at the end of treatment (Post-HDF) and 18 healthy subjects (HSs). Peripheral venous blood was taken from HDF patients at the start of dialysis and at the end of treatment.Results. PMGs obtained from ESRD patients were hyporesponsive to LPS treatment, with respect to PMG from HS. IL-1β and TNF-α produced by PMG from post-HDF patients were higher than those obtained by PMG from pre-HDF. Neutralization of IL-1β, but not of TNF-α, determined a clear-cut production of NGAL in PMG from healthy donors. On the contrary, specific induction of NGAL in PMG from uremic patients was dependent on the presence in supernatants of IL-1β and TNF-α.Conclusion. Our data demonstrate that in PMG from healthy subjects, NGAL production was supported solely by IL-1β, whereas in PMG from HDF patients, NGAL production was supported by IL-1β, TNF-α.
On the Modelling of the Mobile WiMAX (IEEE 802.16e) Uplink Scheduler
Authors: Mohd Ali Darmawaty , Dimyati Kaharudin
Published: March 2011

Packet scheduling has drawn a great deal of attention in the field of wireless networks as it plays an important role in distributing shared resources in a network. The process involves allocating the bandwidth among users and determining their transmission order. In this paper an uplink (UL) scheduling algorithm for the Mobile Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) network based on the cyclic polling model is proposed. The model in this study consists of five queues (UGS, ertPS, rtPS, nrtPS, and BE) visited by a single server. A threshold policy is imposed to the nrtPS queue to ensure that the delay constraint of real time traffic (UGS, ertPS, and rtPS) is not violated making this approach original in comparison to the existing contributions. A mathematical model is formulated for the weighted sum of the mean waiting time of each individual queues based on the pseudo‐conservation law. The results of the analysis are useful in obtaining or testing approximation for individual mean waiting time especially when queues are asymmetric (where each queue may have different stochastic characteristic such as arrival rate and service time distribution) and when their number is large (more than 2 queues).
On a Variational Approach to Optimization of Hybrid Mechanical Systems
Authors: Azhmyakov Vadim , Velazquez Ruben
Published: March 2011

This paper deals with multiobjective optimization techniques for a class of hybrid optimal control problems in mechanical systems. We deal with general nonlinear hybrid control systems described by boundary‐value problems associated with hybrid‐type Euler‐Lagrange or Hamilton equations. The variational structure of the corresponding solutions makes it possible to reduce the original “mechanical” problem to an auxiliary multiobjective programming reformulation. This approach motivates possible applications of theoretical and computational results from multiobjective optimization related to the original dynamical optimization problem. We consider first order optimality conditions for optimal control problems governed by hybrid mechanical systems and also discuss some conceptual algorithms.
Bionic Duplication of FreshNavodon septentrionalisFish Surface Structures
Authors: Qu Bing , Wang Jing , Pan Lanlan , Pan Chao , Zhou Xiaohui , Gu Zhongze
Published: March 2011

Biomimetic superhydrophobic surface was fabricated by replicating topography of the fresh fish skin surface ofNavodon septentrionaliswith polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomer. A two-step replicating method was developed to make the surface structure of the fresh fish skin be replicated with high fidelity. After duplication, it was found that the static contact angle of the replica was as large as 173°. Theoretic analysis based on Young's and Cassie-Baxter (C-B) model was performed to explain the relationship between structure and hydrophobicity.
Chondrosarcoma of the Mobile Spine and Sacrum
Authors: Stuckey Ryan M. , Marco Rex A. W.
Published: March 2011

Chondrosarcoma is a rare malignant tumor of bone. This family of tumors can be primary malignant tumors or a secondary malignant transformation of an underlying benign cartilage tumor. Pain is often the initial presenting complaint when chondrosarcoma involves the spine. In the mobile spine, chondrosarcoma commonly presents within the vertebral body and shows a predilection for the thoracic spine. Due to the resistance of chondrosarcoma to both radiation and chemotherapy, treatment is focused on surgery. With en bloc excision of chondrosarcoma of the mobile spine and sacrum patients can have local recurrence rates as low as 20%.
Thromboelastography to Monitor Clotting/Bleeding Complications in Patients Treated with the Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System
Authors: Bachli Esther B. , Bösiger Jörg , Béchir Markus , Stover John F. , Stocker Reto , Maggiorini Marco , Renner Eberhard L. , Müllhaupt Beat , Schuepbach Reto A.
Published: March 2011

Background.The Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System (MARS) has been shown to clear albumin-bound toxins from patients with liver failure but might cause bleeding complications potentially obscuring survival benefits. We hypothesized that monitoring clotting parameters and bed-side thromboelastography allows to reduce bleeding complications.Methods. Retrospective analysis of 25 MARS sessions during which clotting parameters were monitored by a standardized protocol.Results. During MARS therapy median INR increased significantly from 1.7 to 1.9 platelet count and fibrinogen content decreased significantly from 57 fL−1to 42 fL−1and 2.1 g/L to 1.5 g/L. Nine relevant complications occurred: the MARS system clotted 6 times 3 times we observed hemorrhages. Absent thrombocytopenia and elevated plasma fibrinogen predicted clotting of the MARS system (ROC 0.94 and 0.82). Fibrinolysis, detected by thromboelastography, uniquely predicted bleeding events.Conclusion. Bed-side thromboelastography and close monitoring of coagulation parameters can predict and, therefore, help prevent bleeding complications during MARS therapy.
FDG-PET or PET/CT in Fever of Unknown Origin: The Diagnostic Role of Underlying Primary Disease
Authors: Ergül Nurhan , Çermik Tevfik Fikret
Published: March 2011

Fever of unknown origin (FUO) is generally defined as a fever greater than 38.3°C on several occasions during a period longer than 3 weeks for which the etiology behind cannot be diagnosed at the end of at least 1 week hospital stay. Conventional diagnostic methods are still not adequate to reveal underlying reason in approximately 50% of patients with FUO. In patients with certain diagnosis, three major categories are infections, malignancies, and noninfectious inflammatory diseases. Fluoro-18-fluoro-2-deoxy-D:-glucose (FDG) is a structural analog of 2-deoxyglucose and accumulates in malignant tissues but also at sites of infection and inflammation. For this reason, FDG PET or PET/CT has great advantage in understanding of underlying pathology in assessment of FUO. However, till today, there are limited studies about the role of FDG PET or PET/CT in evaluation of FUO. In this paper, the impact of FDG PET or PET/CT in the diagnostic work-up of FUO is described by data obtained from literature review.
Synthesis and Characterization of High-Entropy Alloy FeCoNiCuCr by Laser Cladding
Authors: Ye Xiaoyang , Ma Mingxing , Liu Wenjin , Li Lin , Zhong Minlin , Liu Yuanxun , Wu Qiwen
Published: March 2011

High-entropy alloys have been recently found to have novel microstructures and unique properties. In this study, a novel FeCoNiCuCr high-entropy alloy was prepared by laser cladding. The microstructure, chemical composition, and constituent phases of the synthesized alloy were characterized by SEM, EDS, XRD, and TEM, respectively. High-temperature hardness was also evaluated. Experimental results demonstrate that the FeCoNiCuCr clad layer is composed of only BCC and FCC phases. The clad layers exhibit higher hardness at higher Al atomic content. The AlFeCoNiCuCr clad layer exhibits increased hardness at temperature between 400–700°C.
MieLab: A Software Tool to Perform Calculations on the Scattering of Electromagnetic Waves by Multilayered Spheres
Authors: Peña-Rodríguez Ovidio , González Pérez Pedro Pablo , Pal Umapada
Published: March 2011

In this paper, we present MieLab, a free computational package for simulating the scattering of electromagnetic radiation by multilayered spheres or an ensemble of particles with normal size distribution. It has been designed as a virtual laboratory, including a friendly graphical user interface (GUI), an optimization algorithm (to fit the simulations to experimental results) and scripting capabilities. The paper is structured in five different sections: the introduction is a perspective on the importance of the software for the study of scattering of light scattering. In the second section, various approaches used for modeling the scattering of electromagnetic radiation by small particles are discussed. The third and fourth sections are devoted to provide an overview of MieLab and to describe the main features of its architectural model and functional behavior, respectively. Finally, several examples are provided to illustrate the main characteristics of the software.
Isolated Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis of the Thyroid in an Adult Female: One-Year Followup
Authors: Vilallonga Ramon , Ciudin Andrea , Fort José Manuel , Baena Juan Antonio , Gonzalez Oscar , Armengol Manuel , Mesa Jordi , Ruiz Marcellán Mari Carmen
Published: March 2011

Thyroid gland involvement as the unique presentation of Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare phenomenon that can result in misdiagnosis. We report a case of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) presenting as a thyroid mass. It is a 52-year-old woman who presented an enlarged, diffusely firm, nontender, nonmobile, and not particularly nodular thyroid gland with mild compressive symptoms. Ultrasound and fine-needle aspiration showed a unique right node with benign signs. Patient was referred to our Ambulatory Surgery Department, where a hemithyroidectomy was performed. Histologic evaluation of the right thyroid gland revealed an involvement by LCH, confirmed by immunohistochemical analysis showing Langerhans cells that were positive for CD1a. LCH was a completely incidental occult finding apparent only after surgical resection and examination of the gland. Patient was evaluated, and no evidence of systemic affectation was found. LCH can rarely involve the thyroid gland in adults. Few cases have been reported in the literature. Most patients had evidence of LCH involving other anatomic sites.
A Streaming High-Throughput Linear Sorter System with Contention Buffering
Authors: Ortiz Jorge , Andrews David
Published: March 2011

Popular sorting algorithms do not translate well into hardware implementations. Instead, hardware-based solutions like sorting networks, systolic sorters, and linear sorters exploit parallelism to increase sorting efficiency. Linear sorters, built from identical nodes with simple control, have less area and latency than sorting networks, but they are limited in their throughput. We present a system composed of multiple linear sorters acting in parallel to increase overall throughput. Interleaving is used to increase bandwidth and allow sorting of multiple values per clock cycle, and the amount of interleaving and depth of the linear sorters can be adapted to suit specific applications. Contention for available linear sorters in the system is solved through the use of buffers that accumulate conflicting requests, dispatching them in bulk to reduce latency penalties. Implementation of this system into a field programmable gate array (FPGA) results in a speedup of 68 compared to a MicroBlaze processor running quicksort.
Parting Shots: Eighteenth-Century Displacements of the Male Body at War
Authors: Rabb Melinda
Published: March 2011

"Parting Shots" views eighteenth-century literature from across the body-strewn battlefields of the English Civil Wars, and analyzes the transformation of shattered men into cultural embodiments of meaning. The essay analyzes the processes of indirection and displacement through which texts, over several generations, negotiate conflicts and problems too difficult to be confronted whole and entire. In order to develop an argument about lingering anxiety over civil conflict, the essay draws on Defoe's Memoirs of a Cavalier and Robinson Crusoe, soldier's manuals and examples from works by Swift, Manley, Sterne, Pope, and Smollett.
Children's Voices in Librarians' Words, 1890-1930
Authors: McDowell Kate
Published: March 2011

American librarians between 1890 and 1930 often used children's own words to document young readers' reading choices and library activities. These accounts, based on both surveys of and conversations with children, reveal the relationships children's librarians sought to establish with their young readers and often give some sense of the attitudes of children and their families toward the public library. In their professional reports, children's librarians typically recounted anecdotes, many of which reflected their attitudes toward children's reading habits, immigrant cultural practices, and the perceived need for children to meet middle-class expectations. The writings show that children's librarians struggled to make the library a welcoming place while enforcing rules, and that children were actively engaged with the institution of the public library.
Co2Si, CrSi2, ZrSi2 and TiSi2 Formation Studied by a Radioactive 31Si Marker Technique
Authors: Botha A. P. , Pretorius R.
Published: March 2011

Radioactive 31Si (half-life, 2.62 h) was used as a marker to study Co2Si, CrSi2, TiSi2 and ZrSi2 formation. By marking the initial layer of silicide with radioactive silicon atoms and by measuring the activity profile in the silicide layer after further silicide formation, the dominant diffusing species and its mechanism of diffusion during the formation of these silicides could be determined. For Co2Si it was found that cobalt is the diffusing species, while disilicide formation was found to take place by silicon substitutional (vacancy) diffusion, with a high self-diffusion coefficient.
Non-Planar Solid Phase Epitaxial Growth Processes in Ion-Implanted GaAs
Authors: Williams J. S. , Adams F. M. , Rossiter K. G.
Published: March 2011

High resolution ion channelling and reflection electron diffraction techniques have been used to examine details of epitaxial regrowth in Ar+-ion-implanted GaAs(100) at furnace anneal temperatures of 400°C or less. In particular, we have investigated the nature and extent of epitaxial regrowth during both isothermal and isochronal annealing for various implant energies and for implant doses above and below the amorphous threshold. Our results indicate the development of a nonplanar growth interface during annealing which may lead, ultimately, to complex near-surface crystallization processes. Consistently with our observations and recent results from other laboratories, we propose a model for the epitaxial regrowth of amorphous GaAs layers based upon non-uniform growth rates along the amorphous-crystalline interface which could arise from local stoichiometry imbalance.
Dislocations as Growth Step Sources in Solution Growth and Their Influence on Interface Structures
Authors: Bauser E. , Strunk H.
Published: March 2011

High voltage electron microscopy of silicon and GaAs layers grown by liquid phase epitaxy shows that two types of growth step sources are present. These consist of single dislocations with or without a Burgers vector component parallel to the macroscopic growth direction (longitudinal or transverse step sources respectively). A simple model is used to illustrate in particular the efficient nucleation of growth steps at transverse sources. Suitably positioned dislocations create morphologically stable patterns of equidistant widely spaced surface steps with monatomic height on otherwise atomically flat surfaces. Such growth surfaces result in interfaces with minimum disorder in multilayer growth.
Correlation of the Crystal Structural and Microstructural Effects of the Interfacial Processes Between Gold and GaAs
Authors: Zeng Xian-Fu , Chung D. D. L.
Published: March 2011

The solid state interfacial reaction between gold and GaAs, was found to result in small surface microstructural changes, whereas melting of the reaction product (tentatively identified as AuGa) and subsequent solidification to form the β phase resulted in aligned rectangular protrusions with sharp corners. The rectangular protrusions were found to be much finer in scale after heating in a vacuum than after heating in argon at 1 atm. High cooling rates (e.g. 40°C min−1) during solidification resulted in the formation of both rectangular protrusions and irregularly shaped protrusions with jagged boundaries and topography. The irregular protrusions were associated with a phase tentatively identified as Au2Ga. Rapid cooling at about 600°C min−1 during solidification resulted in the formation of the gold-rich terminal solid solution (α phase) which appeared as aligned rectangular protrusions with rounded corners.
Studies of Interface States of Silicon Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Devices by Dynamic Conductance and Noise Measurements and Effects of Bias-Temperature Stresses
Authors: Ngai K. L. , Liu S. T.
Published: March 2011

Dynamic conductance measurements in metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) capacitors and the effects of bias-temperature stresses are considered together with noise measurements to determine the origin of 1/f noise in an MOS field effect transistor (MOSFET) operated either under subthreshold or above threshold conditions. The 1/f noise in a subthreshold MOSFET is shown to be due to the dispersion of dielectric loss of the interfacial oxide. The source of 1/f noise in the inversion regime is less certain. Both the number fluctuation model and the mobility fluctuation model are consistent with the data of the bias-temperature treatment effect on 1/f noise reported by Vandamme and Dik provided that the data are interpreted in the reconstructing interface states model. Further inference from conductance data tends to favor the mobility fluctuation model. It is also pointed out that there is only one microscopic model that provides a unified mechanism which gives not only the dispersive dielectric loss and the 1/f noise at subthreshold but also the mobility fluctuations at inversion.
Applications Of Tin Thin Films in Silicon Device Technology
Authors: Wittmer M. , Melchior H.
Published: March 2011

TiN thin films have interesting applications in silicon device technology. We show that TiN is a very efficient barrier for silicon diffusion in metallizations to silicon and discuss implications for high-temperature-resistant and reliable contacts to silicon power devices. The barrier height of TiN on n-type silicon was found to be 0.49 V, allowing the fabrication of low barrier Schottky diodes on high resistivity material and good ohmic contacts to low resistivity n- and p-type material. Finally, we present results on the oxidation kinetics of TiN and the preparation of metaloxide- semiconductor capacitors and field effect transistors with TiN as the gate material.
Reduction in the Effective Barrier Height in Ptsi-P-Si Schottky Diodes by Using Low Energy Ion Implantation
Authors: Wei C.-Y. , Tantraporn W. , Katz W. , Smith G.
Published: March 2011

A reduction in the effective barrier height in a PtSi-p-Si Schottky diode was achieved using low energy ion implantation to introduce a shallow p+ layer on a p-Si substrate. After the Schottky diode had been implanted with 3 keV 11B+ ions to a dose of 4 × 1012 ions cm−2, the barrier height was observed to decrease from 0.26 to 0.16eV. The reduction in barrier height correlated well with the boronconcentration found at or near the PtSi-Si interface.
Role of Cation Dissociation in Schottky Barrier Formation at II–VI Compound Semiconductor-Metal Interfaces
Authors: Brucker C. F. , Brillson L. J.
Published: March 2011

We used UV and X-ray photoemission spectroscopies to probe the relation between the chemical and electronic structure at ultrahigh-vacuum-cleaved CdS-metal and CdSe-metal interfaces. When combined with current-voltage and capacitance-voltage studies of the same interfaces in ultrahigh vacuum, the experimental results indicate that partially dissociated cadmium cations, produced as a consequence of interfacial chemical reaction, may be the electrically active species giving rise to the observed Fermi level stabilization at these contacts. The extent of cation dissociation, a spectroscopically determined quantity, is shown to correlate inversely with the measured Schottky barrier height. An indirect and modified doping effect is suggested as one possible mechanism to explain this behavior. Features of interdiffusion, in particular regarding the interfacial distribution of dissociated cadmium, are also described.
Epitaxial Silicides
Authors: Tung R. T. , Poate J. M. , Bean J. C. , Gibson J. M. , Jacobson D. C.
Published: March 2011

The formation and structures of epitaxial CoSi2, NiSi2, Pd2 Si and PtSi films on silicon are reviewed. Polycrystalline films of reasonable epitaxial quality can be grown with sharp interfaces on Si(111) by conventional deposition and heating techniques. The interfaces on (100) substrates, however, are faceted. Perfect singlecrystal CoSi2 films can be grown on Si(111) substrates by ultrahigh vacuum techniques using conventional deposition and annealing at about 900°C and molecular beam epitaxy codeposition at about 600°C. The single-crystal films are rotated 180° with respect to the substrate. Novel defect arrays are observed at the interface. Resistivities in epitaxial films are lower than those reported in polycrystalline layers. High quality silicon films can be grown on the silicides to form semiconductor/metal/semiconductor heterostructures.
Amorphization and Recrystallization in MeV Ion Implanted InP Crystals
Authors: Xiong Fulin , Nieh C. W. , Jamieson D. N. , Vreeland T. , Tombrello T. A.
Published: March 2011

A comprehensive study of MeV-15N-ion-implanted InP by a variety of analytical techniques has revealed the physical processes involved in MeV ion implantation into III-V compound semiconductors as well as the influence of post-implantation annealing. It provides a coherent picture of implant distribution, structural transition, crystalline damage, and lattice strain in InP crystals induced by ion implantation and thermal annealing. The experimental results from the different measurements are summarized in this report. Mechanisms of amorphization by implantation and recrystallization through annealing in MeV-ion-implanted InP are proposed and discussed in light of the results obtained.
Crystallization, Diffusion and Phase Separation in Sapphire Amorphised by Indium Ion Implantation
Authors: Cao D. X. , Sood D. K. , Pogany A. P.
Published: March 2011

Indium implantation into a-axis sapphire to peak concentrations of 8–45 mol % In produces amorphous surface layers.Migration of In during isothermal annealing at 600°C shows a strong ion dose dependence. For a dose of 6×1016In/cm2, two distinct types of In migration are seen - a) rapid diffusion of In within amorphous Al2O3 and b) diffusion of In into crystalline Al2O3 underlying the amorphous layer. For doses lower than 3×1016In/cm2 , no such migration of In is seen under identical anneal conditions. However, In undergoes phase separation into crystalline In2O3 particles embedded in amorphous Al2O3 at all doses.
Incongruent Sputtering in Nio(100) and CoO(100) with 2 keV Argon Ions
Authors: Langell M. A. , Colbert L. S.
Published: March 2011

Although NiO(100) sputters congruently at 300 K under 2 keV argon ion flux, sputter reduction is observed above a substrate threshold of 350 K. The reduction kinetics are described quantitatively by Fickian diffusion of subsurface oxygen coupled to differential sputtering at the sample surface. Two additional surface oxygen species are detected on sputter reduced NiO by XPS and these species have not been found on either stoichiometric or chemically reduced NiO(100).

CoO(100) also shows sputter reduction, although only surfaces that have been pre-annealed to 973 K show significant reduction. Under these conditions, an epitaxial layer of Co3 O4 forms on the CoO substrate and this layer has a threshold temperature to sputter reduction of 550 K. Reduction kinetics for the epitaxy appear similar to those of NiO(100).
The Formation of Metal Carbide Layers by Elevated-Temperature Ion Implantation of Fe-Based Alloys
Authors: Sprague J. A. , Singer I. L.
Published: March 2011

An Fe-i % C alloy has been implanted at approximately 600 °C with V to a fluence of 5 × 1017 ions/cm2 and with Nb to a fluence of 3 × 1017 ions/cm2. For both implantations, Auger analysis showed that a nominally stoichiometric metal carbide layer formed beneath the surface. Below this layer, which was depleted of Fe, the metal carbide concentration decreased gradually, giving a continually graded interface with the bulk. TEM analysis showed a continuous layer of fine-grained VC or NbC, which displayed a preferred Baker-Nutting orientation relation with the underlying a-Fe matrix.
Ion Beam Modification of Glassy Carbon
Authors: Wielunski Leszek S. , Pollock John T.A. , Farrelly Matthew
Published: March 2011

Implanted glassy carbon (GC; 50 keV, 1016 N+ cm-2) is reported to be 400 times more wear-resistant to 1 μm diamond polishing than unimplanted GC. A number of samples were implanted with 15N to produce the modified surface layer and to allow a very high sensitivity measurement of wear, using the 15N(p, α)12C nuclear reaction.

Optical interferometric wear measurements are also reported. Samples implanted with 1 MeV N to 1015 ions cm-2 indicated that the enhanced wear-resistance is correlated with the nuclear energy loss density within the ion range. Mechanisms likely to be responsible for the enhanced wear resistance are also discussed.