bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mass Spectrometric Determination of Activity in SrO-TiO2 System
Authors: Rangel Salinas Elias , Pisch Alexandre , Chatillon Christian B. , Bernard Claude
Published: July 2007

Until now, the binary system SrO-TiO2 has not been object of potentiometric studies. In order to resolve the discrepancy between the phase diagram and thermodynamic databases, a determination of chemical activities was performed by high temperature mass spectrometry (HTMS) coupled with the effusion method. This method has proven to be one of the most useful experimental techniques for studying the equilibrium between condensed and complex vapour phases.
Coating Strategies for Oxidation Resistant High Temperature Mo-Si-B Alloys
Authors: Rioult Fabien , Sakidja Ridwan , Perepezko John H.
Published: July 2007

During oxidation exposure of uncoated Mo-Si-B alloys, the formation of a borosilicate layer provides a good oxidation barrier, but below 750{degree sign}C, the glass is too viscous to flow and cover the entire surface of the sample. On the other hand, above 1200{degree sign}C, the evaporation rate of B2O3 is high and leads to a fast recession of the alloy. In order to enhance the oxidation resistance, two different coatings were designed by application of a kinetic bias strategy and applied by pack cementation. In one case, a continuous borosilicide coating was developed in which the ratio Si/B is controlled and adapted to the substrate. The second coating is based upon an aluminide (Mo3Al8) that is the result of aluminum pack cementation. During the oxidation, the coatings provide, respectively, a continuous protective borosilicate and a layer of alumina at the surface of the sample and enhanced oxidation resistance.
Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopic Study of Passive Zirconium in High Temperature Hydrogenated Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Ai Jiahe , Chen Yingzi , Urquidi-Macdonald M. , Macdonald Digby D.
Published: July 2007

The Point Defect Model (PDM) was further developed to account for the properties of passive films comprising hydride barrier layers and porous oxide outer layers that form on zirconium and Zircaloys in high temperature, hydrogenated aqueous solutions. The model parameter values were extracted from electrochemical impedance spectroscopic data for zirconium in hydrogenated, borate buffer solution (pH 6.94) at 250{degree sign}C by optimization. The results indicate that the corrosion resistance of zirconium in high temperature, hydrogenated aqueous solutions is dominated by the outer layer. The impedance model based on the PDM provides a good account of the growth of the bi-layer passive films described above, and the extracted model parameter values might be used, for example, for predicting the accumulation of general corrosion damage to Zircaloy fuel cladding in PWR operating environments.
Development and Characterization of Plating Cell Geometry for PCB and Packaging Applications.
Authors: Garich Holly , Gebhart Larry , Taylor E. Jennings , Inman Maria , McCrabb Heather
Published: July 2007

Plating cell geometry and uniform solution flow are the foundation for a uniform plating process for printed circuit board and electronic packaging applications. Currently, the plating cells used for copper metallization for these applications utilize a number of agitation methods to reduce the thickness of the diffusion boundary layer as well as fostering solution movement into and through small features. In order to achieve a uniform diffusion boundary layer, a requirement for uniform plating thickness, a uniform diffusion layer must be established by flow/agitation method within the cell. A novel plating cell geometry that provides a thin uniform diffusion boundary layer and consequently uniform plating thickness is disclosed. Results from cell characterization in terms of diffusion boundary layer thickness and deposit thickness uniformity is also reported.
Effect Of Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate On The Analytical Determination Of Dopamine In Presence Of Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Corona Avendano Silvia , Alarcón Angeles Georgina , Rosquete Pina Giselle , Romero Romo Mario , Palomar-Pardavé Manuel , Rojas Hernández Alberto , Ramírez-Silva María Teresa
Published: July 2007

The present work focuses on the use of the anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulphate, SDS, along with the differential pulse voltammetry, DPV, with a carbon paste electrode as modified by the surfactant and optimising the experimental conditions to improve the process of determination of DA in the presence of AA. It is relevant to add that the study was undertaken at acid pH values to avoid degradation of the solutions containing both the DA and the AA.Optimization of the experimental conditions permitted to obtain a calibration plot for the DA in the presence of the AA, having a 0.01 to 0.2 mM linear range and detection limit of 0.00821 mM
Charge and Interface Traps in 1-Octadecene Monolayers on Silicon as a Function of Silicon Pretreatment and Deposition Regime
Authors: Antonova Irina V. , Soots Regina , Seleznev Vladimir , Prinz Victor
Published: July 2007

The electrical properties of 1-octadecene (CnH2n, n=18) monolayers deposed onto the oxide-free silicon surface were analyzed as a function of surface pretreatment (hydrogen- or iodine-terminated silicon surface) and layer deposition regime (a thermally or photo-activated process). Two types of traps (for electrons and holes) were found to exist in the monolayers. The density of these traps is shown to depend on the orientation of the Si substrate, on H- or I-termination of the surface, on the illumination intensity during photo- activated deposition, and on the duration of thermally activated deposition. The possibility to introduce, in a controllable manner, either hole or electron traps into the 1- octadecene monolayers provides a potential in managing the conductivity of thin silicon layers by producing at the surface either a near-flat band situation or the accumulation regime.
Pt/C Catalyst Preparation Using Rotating Disk-Slurry Electrode (RoDSE) Technique
Authors: Santiago Diana , Cruz-Quiñonez Miguel , Tryk Donald A. , Cabrera Carlos R.
Published: July 2007

The Pt/C catalyst preparation by electrodeposition was done using a rotating disk electrode technique. The electrodeposition was carried out in a solution containing carbon black (Vulcan XC-72R), K2PtCl6 and 0.1M H2SO4 using a glassy carbon electrode for the potential applied. The convection of the technique and the applied potential permits the deposition at different sides of the carbon powder particle. The Pt deposition was analysed by TEM, nano XRF, and XRD. The TEM image showed Pt particles with sizes {greater than or equal to} 3 nm. The nano XRF and XRD confirm the presence of platinum nanoparticles showing the characteristic peak of this element. The use of the rotating disk-slurry technique was an effective method for the platinum electrodeposition because we can obtain well-dispersed platinum nanoparticles over the carbon powder support.
Electrochemical Behavior of (100) Germanium in Copper (II) Containing Solutions
Authors: Strubbe Katrien , Huygens Inge
Published: July 2007

The electrochemical behavior of n and p-type germanium in aqueous copper sulphate solutions was studied by means of cyclic voltammetry an chronoamperometry. It appeared that reduction at p-type occurs by charge transfer from the valence band, whereas the electron transfer mechanism at n-type electrodes is not clear. At both type of electrodes, anodic dissolution of the electrodeposited copper layer was possible, which may point to the formation of an ohmic contact. Current time experiments revealed a different nucleation mechanism at n-type specimens as compared to p-type electrodes. Possible explanations to explain the differences are suggested
Electrochemical Deposition of Manganese and Copper-Manganese Alloy on Silicon
Authors: Radisic Aleksandar , Hernandez Jose Luis , Tokei Zsolt , Beyer Gerald , Vereecken P. M.
Published: July 2007

In this paper, we report on the electrochemical deposition of manganese and copper-manganese alloy on silicon from sulfate solutions with and without complexing agents. We show that the composition of copper-manganese films deposited on n-type (100) silicon can be controlled using different deposition parameters and bath compositions. Manganese was deposited on p-type (100) silicon only from the simplest solutions, containing no copper and complexing agents.
Electrodeposited Extended and Laterally Confined Metal / n - Si (111) Contacts
Authors: Hugelmann Philipp , Hugelmann Philipp , Schindler Werner
Published: July 2007

Au / n - Si (111) contacts have been electrochemically deposited and studied by in - situ Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM). The initial nucleation step results in clusters showing a few nanometers in diameter, which grow subsequently to large extended metal films. A Schottky barrier is formed at the interface to n - Si (111), as determined by in - situ transport measurements.
Selective Electroless Deposition Using Photoinduced Oxidation of Sn(II) Compounds on Surface-Modified Polyimide Layers
Authors: Kim Jin Young , Byk Tamara V. , Cho Sung Hen , Noh Chang-Ho , Song Ki Yong , Kim Jong Min , Gaevskaya Tatyana V.
Published: July 2007

This paper describes an electroless deposition method for fabricating microscale metal patterns on polyimide surfaces. This method uses the selective deposition of catalytic Pd seeds via the photoinduced oxidation of Sn(II) compounds. The preparation process requires three steps: a first step in which the adsorption of Sn(II) compounds occurs on the surface of the polyimide film through ion exchange reactions, a second step in which the photoinduced oxidation of the Sn(II) compounds with atmospheric oxygen occurs in ultraviolet light (UV) irradiated areas, and a third step comprising the deposition of Pd2+ ions in non-irradiated areas, which are simultaneously reduced.
A Fast CT Reconstruction Scheme for a General Multi‐Core PC
Authors: Zeng Kai , Bai Erwei , Wang Ge
Published: July 2007

Expensive computational cost is a severe limitation in CT reconstruction for clinical applications that need real‐time feedback. A primary example is bolus‐chasing computed tomography (CT) angiography (BCA) that we have been developing for the past several years. To accelerate the reconstruction process using the filtered backprojection (FBP) method, specialized hardware or graphics cards can be used. However, specialized hardware is expensive and not flexible. The graphics processing unit (GPU) in a current graphic card can only reconstruct images in a reduced precision and is not easy to program. In this paper, an acceleration scheme is proposed based on a multi‐core PC. In the proposed scheme, several techniques are integrated, including utilization of geometric symmetry, optimization of data structures, single‐instruction multiple‐data (SIMD) processing, multithreaded computation, and an Intel C++ compilier. Our scheme maintains the original precision and involves no data exchange between the GPU and CPU. The merits of our scheme are demonstrated in numerical experiments against the traditional implementation. Our scheme achieves a speedup of about 40, which can be further improved by several folds using the latest quad‐core processors.
Electroless Fabrication of Cobalt Alloys Nanowires within Alumina Template
Authors: Dadvand Nazila , Kipouros Georges J.
Published: July 2007

A new method of nanowire fabrication based on electroless deposition process is described. The method is novel compared to the current electroless procedure used in making nanowires as it involves growing nanowires from the bottom up. The length of the nanowires was controlled at will simply by adjusting the deposition time. The nanowires were fabricated within the nanopores of an alumina template. It was accomplished by coating one side of the template by a thin layer of palladium in order to activate the electroless deposition within the nanopores from bottom up. However, prior to electroless deposition process, the template was pretreated with a suitable wetting agent in order to facilitate the penetration of the plating solution through the pores. As well, the electroless deposition process combined with oblique metal evaporation process within a prestructured silicon wafer was used in order to fabricate long nanowires along one side of the grooves within the wafer.
A Study on the Usage of Cross-Layer Power Control and Forward Error Correction for Embedded Video Transmission over Wireless Links
Authors: Granelli Fabrizio , Costa Cristina E. , Katsaggelos Aggelos K.
Published: July 2007

Cross-layering is a design paradigm for overcoming the limitations deriving from the ISO/OSI layering principle, thus improving the performance of communications in specific scenarios, such as wireless multimedia communications. However, most available solutions are based on empirical considerations, and do not provide a theoretical background supporting such approaches. The paper aims at providing an analytical framework for the study of single-hop video delivery over a wireless link, enabling cross-layer interactions for performance optimization using power control and FEC and providing a useful tool to determine the potential gain deriving from the employment of such design paradigm. The analysis is performed using rate-distortion information of an embedded video bitstream jointly with a Lagrangian power minimization approach. Simulation results underline that cross-layering can provide relevant improvement in specific environments and that the proposed approach is able to capitalize on the advantage deriving from its deployment.
2-Methoxy antimycin reveals a unique mechanism for Bcl-xL inhibition
Authors: Schwartz Pamela S. , Manion Michael K. , Emerson Christine B. , Fry John S. , Schulz Craig M. , Sweet Ian R. , Hockenbery David M.
Published: July 2007

Overexpression of Bcl-xL in multiple cancers correlates with resistance to chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and provides a rationale for development of small-molecule Bcl-xL inhibitors. Based on knockout studies, nonneoplastic cells also require Bcl-xL survival functions, particularly when challenged with cytotoxic agents. We analyze the selective cytotoxicity of one Bcl-xL inhibitor, 2-methoxy antimycin A, toward cells with excess exogenous Bcl-xL in isogenic cell line pairs. This selectivity, characteristic of a gain-of-function mechanism, is not shared by other known Bcl-xL inhibitors, including BH3I-2, HA14-1, ABT-737, gossypol, or the stapled BH3 helical peptide SAHB-BID. We show that Bcl-xL overexpression induces a shift in energy metabolism from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis. Treatment with 2-methoxy antimycin A acutely reverses the metabolic effects of Bcl-xL, causing mitochondrial hyperpolarization and a progressive increase in mitochondrial NAD(P)H. We identify an additional small-molecule Bcl-xL inhibitor, NSC 310343, establishing a class of Bcl-xL inhibitors with gain-of-function activity. In contrast to other Bcl-xL inhibitors, combining gain-of-function Bcl-xL inhibitors with a standard inducer of apoptosis, staurosporine, enhances selective cytotoxicity toward Bcl-xL–overexpressing cells. These results provide an example of the intersection of bioenergetic metabolism and Bcl-xL functions and suggest a metabolic basis for the gain-of-function mechanism of Bcl-xL inhibitors. [Mol Cancer Ther 2007;6(7):2073–80]
Regulation of mitosis via mitotic kinases: new opportunities for cancer management
Authors: Schmit Travis L. , Ahmad Nihal
Published: July 2007

Mitosis, a critical and highly orchestrated event in the cell cycle, decides how cells divide and transmit genetic information from one cell generation to the next. Errors in the choreography of these events may lead to uncontrolled proliferation, aneuploidy, and genetic instability culminating in cancer development. Considering the central role of phosphorylation in mitotic checkpoints, spindle function, and chromosome segregation, it is not surprising that several mitotic kinases have been implicated in tumorigenesis. These kinases play pivotal roles throughout cellular division. From DNA damage and spindle assembly checkpoints before entering mitosis, to kinetochore and centrosome maturation and separation, to regulating the timing of entrance and exit of mitosis, mitotic kinases are essential for cellular integrity. Therefore, targeting the mitotic kinases that control the fidelity of chromosome transmission seems to be a promising avenue in the management of cancer. This review provides an insight into the mechanism of mitotic signaling, especially the role of critical mitotic kinases. We have also discussed the possibilities of the use of mitotic kinases in crafting novel strategies in cancer management. [Mol Cancer Ther 2007;6(7):1920–31]
Inhibition of c-Src expression and activation in malignant pleural mesothelioma tissues leads to apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and decreased migration and invasion
Authors: Tsao Anne S. , He Dandan , Saigal Babita , Liu Suyu , Lee J. Jack , Bakkannagari Srinivasa , Ordonez Nelson G. , Hong Waun Ki , Wistuba Ignacio , Johnson Faye M.
Published: July 2007

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a deadly disease with few systemic treatment options. One potential therapeutic target, the non–receptor tyrosine kinase c-Src, causes changes in proliferation, motility, invasion, survival, and angiogenesis in cancer cells and may be a valid therapeutic target in MPM. To test this hypothesis, we determined the effects of c-Src inhibition in MPM cell lines and examined c-Src expression and activation in tissue samples. We analyzed four MPM cell lines and found that all expressed total and activated c-Src. Three of the four cell lines were sensitive by in vitro cytotoxicity assays to the c-Src inhibitor dasatinib, which led to cell cycle arrest and increased apoptosis. Dasatinib also inhibited migration and invasion independent of the cytotoxic effects, and led to the rapid and durable inhibition of c-Src and its downstream pathways. We used immunohistochemical analysis to determine the levels of c-Src expression and activation in 46 archived MPM tumor specimens. The Src protein was highly expressed in tumor cells, but expression did not correlate with survival. However, expression of activated Src (p-Src Y419) on the tumor cell membrane was higher in patients with advanced-stage disease; the presence of metastasis correlated with higher membrane (P = 0.03) and cytoplasmic (P = 0.04) expression of p-Src Y419. Lower levels of membrane expression of inactive c-Src (p-Src Y530) correlated with advanced N stage (P = 0.02). Activated c-Src may play a role in survival, metastasis, and invasion of MPM, and targeting c-Src may be an important therapeutic strategy. [Mol Cancer Ther 2007;6(7):1962–72]
Preventive effects of Polyphenon E on urinary bladder and mammary cancers in rats and correlations with serum and urine levels of tea polyphenols
Authors: Lubet Ronald A. , Yang Chung S. , Lee Mao-Jung , Hara Yukihiko , Kapetanovic Izet M. , Crowell James A. , Steele Vernon E. , Juliana M. Margaret , Grubbs Clinton J.
Published: July 2007

Polyphenon E, a standardized mixture of green tea polyphenols, was examined for its chemopreventive efficacy against chemically induced urinary bladder and mammary cancers. In the present study, Polyphenon E was administered after the last dose of 4-hydroxybutyl(butyl)nitrosamine, or roughly 30% of the way into the experiment. Polyphenon E (100 or 250 mg/kg body weight/d) caused a dose-dependent decrease in palpable urinary bladder tumors [low dose, 14 of 34; high dose, 6 of 35; controls, 20 of 34 (P < 0.01)]. In the mammary cancer model, Polyphenon E [333 or 1,000 mg/kg body weight (BW)/d] was administered beginning 5 days after a single dose of methylnitrosourea. In contrast to its significant efficacy in bladder tumor prevention, Polyphenon E had a minimal effect in the prevention of mammary cancers. Levels of polyphenols were determined in the urine and serum of rats. Relatively high levels of various polyphenols (and metabolites) were found in the urine. However, virtually no epigallocatechin-3-gallate was observed in the urine because of low systemic bioavailability; although it represents almost 65% of the polyphenols in Polyphenon E. Levels of polyphenols in serum were 50× to 1,000× less than were observed in urine. The bioavailability of these tea polyphenols to different organ sites may contribute to the differing preventive efficacy of Polyphenon E against urinary bladder and mammary cancers. [Mol Cancer Ther 2007;6(7):2022–8]
The HLA A*0201–restricted hTERT540–548 peptide is not detected on tumor cells by a CTL clone or a high-affinity T-cell receptor
Authors: Purbhoo Marco A. , Li Yi , Sutton Deborah H. , Brewer Joanna E. , Gostick Emma , Bossi Giovanna , Laugel Bruno , Moysey Ruth , Baston Emma , Liddy Nathaniel , Cameron Brian , Bennett Alan D. , Ashfield Rebecca , Milicic Anita , Price David A. , Classon Brendan J. , Sewell Andrew K. , Jakobsen Bent K.
Published: July 2007

Tumor-associated human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) is expressed in >85% of human tumors but not in most normal cells. As a result, this antigen has received considerable attention from those interested in cancer immunotherapy. Specifically, there has been strong interest in MHC class I–associated peptides derived from hTERT because these are expressed on the cell surface and thus may enable the targeting of tumor cells. Much of this interest has focused on peptide 540–548, ILAKFLHWL, which was predicted to exhibit the strongest binding to the common HLA A*0201 presenting molecule. The hTERT540–548 peptide is currently being assessed in therapeutic vaccination trials; however, there is controversy surrounding whether it is naturally processed and presented on the surface of neoplastic cells. Here, we generate two highly sensitive reagents to assess the presentation of hTERT540–548 on tumor cells: (a) a CD8+ CTL clone, and (b) a recombinant T-cell receptor (TCR) that binds with picomolar affinity and a half-life exceeding 14 h. This TCR enables the identification of individual HLA A2-hTERT540–548 complexes on the cell surface. The use of both this TCR and the highly antigen-sensitive CTL clone shows that the hTERT540–548 peptide cannot be detected on the surface of tumor cells, indicating that this peptide is not a naturally presented epitope. We propose that, in future, rigorous methods must be applied for the validation of peptide epitopes used for clinical applications. [Mol Cancer Ther 2007;6(7):2081–91]
TRAIL therapy in non–small cell lung cancer cells: sensitization to death receptor–mediated apoptosis by proteasome inhibitor bortezomib
Authors: Voortman Jens , Resende Tatiana P. , Abou El Hassan Mohamed A.I. , Giaccone Giuseppe , Kruyt Frank A.E.
Published: July 2007

Activation of the tumor necrosis factor–related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) receptor pathway is a promising therapeutic strategy to selectively eradicate cancer cells, including non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Recombinant human (rh) TRAIL/Apo-2L, a TRAIL-encoding adenovirus, and monoclonal antibodies directed against TRAIL receptors R1 and R2 were used to study cytotoxicity of TRAIL therapy in NSCLC cells. NSCLC cells showed differential sensitivity to TRAIL therapy, regardless of the agent used. Combination treatment of bortezomib and rhTRAIL led to synergistic apoptosis induction in NSCLC cell lines. Enhancement of rhTRAIL-induced apoptosis by bortezomib was caspase dependent, implicating extrinsic as well as intrinsic apoptosis activation, as shown by increased processing of caspase-8 as well as caspase-9, and could be abrogated completely by overexpression of caspase-8 inhibitor cytokine response modifier A (CrmA), and partially by overexpression of Bcl-2. Enhanced surface expression of TRAIL-R2, but also TRAIL-R1, was associated with bortezomib treatment, which is likely to contribute to the increased processing of caspase-8 in the combination treatment. Furthermore, TRAIL-induced activation of prosurvival transcription factor nuclear factor-κB was prevented by cotreatment with bortezomib, which may contribute to the observed synergistic apoptosis induction. Our preclinical data indicate that combination therapy of TRAIL and bortezomib may be an effective strategy for NSCLC. [Mol Cancer Ther 2007;6(7):2103–12]
Pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic correlation from mouse to human with pazopanib, a multikinase angiogenesis inhibitor with potent antitumor and antiangiogenic activity
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Knick Victoria B. , Rudolph Sharon K. , Johnson Jennifer H. , Crosby Renae M. , Crouthamel Ming-Chih , Hopper Teresa M. , Miller Charles G. , Harrington Laura E. , Onori James A. , Mullin Robert J. , Gilmer Tona M. , Truesdale Anne T. , Epperly Andrea H. , Boloor Amogh , Stafford Jeffrey A. , Luttrell Deirdre K. , Cheung Mui
Published: July 2007

With the development of targeted therapeutics, especially for small-molecule inhibitors, it is important to understand whether the observed in vivo efficacy correlates with the modulation of desired/intended target in vivo. We have developed a small-molecule inhibitor of all three vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptors (VEGFR), platelet-derived growth factor receptor, and c-Kit tyrosine kinases, pazopanib (GW786034), which selectively inhibits VEGF-induced endothelial cell proliferation. It has good oral exposure and inhibits angiogenesis and tumor growth in mice. Because bolus administration of the compound results in large differences in Cmax and Ctrough, we investigated the effect of continuous infusion of a VEGFR inhibitor on tumor growth and angiogenesis. GW771806, which has similar enzyme and cellular profiles to GW786034, was used for these studies due to higher solubility requirements for infusion studies. Comparing the pharmacokinetics by two different routes of administration (bolus p.o. dosing and continuous infusion), we showed that the antitumor and antiangiogenic activity of VEGFR inhibitors is dependent on steady-state concentration of the compound above a threshold. The steady-state concentration required for these effects is consistent with the concentration required for the inhibition of VEGF-induced VEGFR2 phosphorylation in mouse lungs. Furthermore, the steady-state concentration of pazopanib determined from preclinical activity showed a strong correlation with the pharmacodynamic effects and antitumor activity in the phase I clinical trial. [Mol Cancer Ther 2007;6(7):2012–21]
North-South Divisions in Multilateral Environmental Agreements: Negotiating the Private Sector's Role in Three Rio Agreements
Authors: Wagner Lynn
Published: July 2007

This article analyzes negotiations in the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development, the Framework Convention on Climate Change, and the Convention to Combat Desertification and focuses on discussions related to technology transfers from the North to the South. These transfers and the financial flows that the private sector could bring with it are closely related to what was believed to be a bargain reached in 1992 at the Rio Earth Summit. During subsequent negotiations, delegates from developed and developing countries have followed a fairly predictable 'script' on these issues – developed countries generally insist that the private sector, as the owner of the technology, must be involved in its transfer, while developing countries have insisted the governments of developed countries should honor their past commitments and promote these transfers. This study describes the development of the script under the three negotiating bodies at Rio, examines the variables that have contributed to the development of the script and, based on this analysis, identifies opportunities to move the talks forward.
Dynamic Fire Danger Mapping from Satellite Imagery and Meteorological Forecast Data
Authors: Fiorucci Paolo , Gaetani Francesco , Lanorte Antonio , Lasaponara Rosa
Published: July 2007

This study aims at ascertaining if and how remote sensing data can improve fire danger estimation based on meteorological variables. With this goal in mind, a dynamic estimation of fire danger was performed using an approach based on the integration of satellite information within a comprehensive fire danger rating system. The performances obtained with and without using satellite data were carried out for fires that occurred during the fire season in the year 2003 in the Calabria region (southern Italy). This study area was selected, first, because it is highly representative of Mediterranean ecosystems and, second, because it is an interesting test case for wildfire occurrences within the Mediterranean basin.

The results obtained have shown that the use of satellite data reduced efficiently the overestimated danger areas, thus improving at least by 10% the fire forecasting rate obtained without using satellite-based maps. Such findings can be directly extended to other similar Mediterranean ecosystems.
Differential Stimulant Response on Attention in Children With Comorbid Anxiety and Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Authors: Goez Helly , Back-Bennet Odea , Zelnik Nathanel
Published: July 2007

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects 3% to 7% of school-age children. Approximately 30% of the children with ADHD also have comorbid anxiety or oppositional defiant disorder. Methylphenidate is the drug of choice for the medical treatment of such cases. When compared with children with ADHD alone, children with comorbid anxiety or oppositional defiant disorder may show worsening of the global attention score in response to methylphenidate and not only a “reduced response,” as reported in previous studies. This study included 1122 children diagnosed as ADHD, of which 174 were diagnosed with comorbid anxiety and 141 with comorbid oppositional defiant disorder. All patients performed the Test of Variables of Attention before and after methylphenidate administration. A normal distribution (Gaussian distribution) of reaction to methylphenidate, as measured by the global ADHD score in children diagnosed as pure ADHD, was found. These findings were in contrast to children with ADHD and comorbid anxiety or oppositional defiant disorder who showed a bimodal distribution and hence represent a distinct population. In both groups with comorbid disorders, there was a larger subgroup in which significant worsening of global ADHD score occurred after methylphenidate administration (P < .05). Children with ADHD and comorbid anxiety or oppositional defiant disorder might represent clinically distinct populations in which inattention is secondary to those disorders; therefore, methylphenidate may be an inappropriate treatment for such children.
Thalidomide induces γ-globin gene expression through increased reactive oxygen species–mediated p38 MAPK signaling and histone H4 acetylation in adult erythropoiesis
Authors: Aerbajinai Wulin , Zhu Jianqiong , Gao Zhigang , Chin Kyung , Rodgers Griffin P.
Published: July 2007

Although thalidomide has been shown to improve anemia in some patients with myelodysplastic syndromes and stimulates erythropoietin in patients with multiple myeloma, thalidomide's specific effects on γ-globin gene expression during erythroid differentiation have not been studied. Here, we investigated the effects of thalidomide on γ-globin gene expression and the involved signaling pathway using an ex vivo culture system of primary human CD34+ cells. We found that thalidomide induced γ-globin mRNA expression in a dose-dependent manner, but had no effect on β-globin expression. We also demonstrated that intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were increased by treatment with thalidomide for 48 hours (from day 3 to day 5). Western blot analysis demonstrated that thalidomide activated the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway in a time- and dose-dependent manner and increased histone H4 acetylation. Pretreatment of cells with the antioxidant enzyme catalase and the intracellular hydroxyl scavenger dimethylthiourea (DMTU) abrogated the thalidomide-induced p38 MAPK activation and histone H4 acetylation. Moreover, pretreatment with catalase and DMTU diminished thalidomide-induced γ-globin gene expression. These data indicate that thalidomide induces increased expression of the γ-globin gene via ROS-dependent activation of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway and histone H4 acetylation.
A study of an elbow mechanism generated by a conical cutter
Authors: Yang S-C
Published: July 2007

This paper presents a method for determining the mathematical model of an elbow mechanism with a convex tooth and a concave tooth. Based on this method, the mathematical model presents the meshing principles of a conical cutter meshed with a tooth that is either convex or concave.

Using the developed mathematical models and the tooth contact analysis, kinematic errors are investigated according to the obtained geometric modelling of the designed gear meshing when assembly errors are present. The influence of misalignment on kinematic errors has been investigated. The goal of the current study is to investigate von-Mises stress for three teeth contact pairs. A structural load is assumed to act on a gear of the proposed mechanism. The von-Mises of the proposed gear is determined.

The conical cutter used in the design and manufacture of the convex and concave gear is shown. For example, the proposed mechanism with a transmission ratio of 3:2 was determined with the aid of the proposed mathematical model. Using rapid prototyping and manufacturing technology, an elbow mechanism with a convex gear, a concave gear and a frame was designed.

The RP primitives provide an actual full-size physical model that can be analysed and used for further development. Results from these mathematical models are applicable to the design of an elbow mechanism.
High-speed rotor-shaft systems and whirling identification
Authors: Whalley R , Ebrahimi M , Abdul-Ameer A
Published: July 2007

The transverse vibrations of shaft-rotor systems are considered. Interconnected assemblies of distributed parameter, compliant shafts, pointwise lumped rotor, and isentropic bearing units, are investigated. Analysis methods for shaft-rotor systems are formulated from the truncated, series expansion, of the rotor model, impedance matrix elements. Frequency domain evaluation of the determinant of the matrix model, enabling accurate validation, is incorporated. An illustrative application for a high speed, turbo-charger rotor system model is presented. Critical whirling speed conditions are identified. Alternative, established whirling speed evaluation techniques are investigated. Analysis, modelling accuracy, and the computational integrity of the procedures employed are emphasized.
Virtual non-linear disturbance observer by dual inverse dynamic modelling
Authors: Sahinkaya M N
Published: July 2007

A method to predict unknown external disturbances and modelling errors for trajectory tracking of non-linear systems is presented. The technique involves dual inverse non-linear dynamics modelling based on Lagrangian dynamics and the use of redundant coordinates incorporating Lagrange multipliers. The first inverse dynamics model is a conventional formulation where the desired trajectory is used to calculate the required control inputs. The second inverse dynamics model treats the measured response as the desired motion, and calculates the inputs that would be required to achieve the measured motion. The method is applicable to cases where the acceleration signal is available. It can be used either to measure actual disturbances or to estimate virtual disturbances, which effectively represent all the disturbances and modelling errors on the control input coordinates. It is also suitable to be used in conjunction with or in addition to existing controllers. A numerical simulation of a two-link manipulator is used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the controller under various external disturbances, modelling errors, and unmodelled substructures.
Molecular Structures of the Coloring Species of a Leuco Dye with Phenolic Color Developers
Authors: Sekiguchi Yumiko , Takayama Satoshi , Gotanda Takeshi , Sano Kenji
Published: July 2007

We have isolated the coloring species of a leuco dye colored by three phenolic color developers and have revealed their molecular structures by X-ray crystallographic analysis for the first time: one leuco dye molecule combined with one developer molecule by the hydrogen bonds between the carboxylate anion of a leuco dye and the OH groups of a color developer.
Chiral Effects on Magnetic Properties for Chiral and Racemic WV–CuII Prussian Blue Analogues
Authors: Higashikawa Hiroyuki , Okuda Kazuki , Kishine Jun-ichiro , Masuhara Naoji , Inoue Katsuya
Published: July 2007

The chiral and racemic 2-D antiferromagnets based on a cyano-bridged WV–CuII compound are constructed. Both compounds are similar crystal structure, but some differences in magnetic properties appear owing to the existence of the Dzyaloshinsky–Moriya (DM) interactions, that is generated by crystal chirality.
Effect of oestrogen on Pasteurella pneumotropica in rat vagina
Authors: Yamada S. , Mizoguchi J. , Ohtaki T.
Published: July 2007

The effects of ovarian hormones on the vaginal population of Pasteurella pneumotropica in rats were investigated. Specified-pathogen-free adult female Wistar-Imamichi rats with a 4 day oestrous cycle were inoculated with P. pneumotropica in the vagina. Cyclic changes in the vaginal population of P. pneumotropica were not observed in ovariectomized rats and the bacterial population was at a similar level to that at normal dioestrus. Administration of oestrogen to ovariectomized rats caused an increase in the numbers of P. pneumotropica and total bacteria in the vagina nearly equal to that at oestrus in intact rats. The numbers of these organisms in the vagina of ovariectomized rats treated with progesterone did not change and were similar to those of control ovariectomized rats treated with sesame oil. Vaginal smears of ovariectomized rats treated with oestrogen were characterized by abundant cornified non-nucleated epithelial cells with many adherent Gram-negative coccobacilli and were similar to smears from intact rats at oestrus. These findings suggest that the proliferation of P. pneumotropica at oestrus in rat vagina may be primarily due to the environment provided by the degeneration of vaginal epithelial cells promoted by oestrogen secretion from the ovaries.
Association of FLT3 Polymorphisms With Low BMD and Risk of Osteoporotic Fracture in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Koh Jung-Min , Oh Bermseok , Lee Jong-Young , Lee Jong-Keuk , Kimm Kuchan , Park Byung Lae , Shin Hyoung Doo , Lee Il-Kwon , Kim Hyeoung-Joon , Hong Jung-Min , Kim Tae-Ho , Kim Ghi Su , Kim Shin-Yoon , Park Eui Kyun
Published: July 2007

The genetic effects of FLT3 polymorphisms on BMD and fracture risk in postmenopausal women were studied. We found that FLT3+13348C>T polymorphism and haplotype 2 were significantly associated with low BMD and high risk of fracture.

Introduction: FMS-related tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) has been shown to play a critical role in the development of myelolymphoid progenitors and in the development of osteoclasts, but any possible genetic effect of FLT3 on bone metabolism has not been studied.

Materials and Methods: To study a possible genetic effect of FLT3, we directly sequenced the FLT3 gene in 24 Korean individuals and identified 23 sequence variants. Seven polymorphisms were selected and genotyped in Korean postmenopausal women (n = 946).

Results: We found that FLT3+13348C>T was associated with low BMD at the lumbar spine (p = 0.04) and femoral neck (p = 0.04). Haplotype analysis revealed that FLT3-ht2 (TTCTT) containing the rare allele in the +13348 position also showed significant association with low BMD in the lumbar spine (p = 0.04) and femoral neck (p = 0.05). Consistent with these results, the FLT3+13348C>T polymorphism and FLT3-ht2 were also significantly associated with high risk of fracture in the vertebrae (OR = 1.44–1.58; p = 0.03–0.04 and OR = 1.45–1.59; p = 0.02–0.03, respectively) and in any sites (OR = 1.34–1.81; p = 0.02–0.03 and OR = 1.34–1.81; p = 0.02–0.03, respectively).

Conclusions: These results suggest that FLT3 polymorphisms play a role in determination of BMD and subsequent fractures in postmenopausal women.
Genetic Effects on Bone Loss in Peri- and Postmenopausal Women: A Longitudinal Twin Study
Authors: Makovey Joanna , Nguyen Tuan V , Naganathan Vasi , Wark John D , Sambrook Philip N
Published: July 2007

This longitudinal twin study was designed to assess the heritability of bone loss in peri- and postmenopausal women. A sample of 724 female twins was studied. Baseline and repeat BMD measurements were performed. Results of genetic model-fitting analysis indicated genetic effects on bone loss account for ∼40% of the between-individual variation in bone loss at the lumbar spine, forearm, and whole body.

Introduction: BMD and bone loss are important predictors of fracture risk. Although the heritability of peak BMD is well documented, it is not clear whether bone loss is also under genetic regulation. This study was designed to assess the heritability of bone loss in peri- and postmenopausal women.

Materials and Methods: A sample of 724 female twins (177 monozygotic [MZ] and 185 dizygotic [DZ] pairs), 45–82 yr of age, was studied. Each individual had baseline BMD measurements at the lumbar spine, hip, forearm, and total body by DXA and at least one repeat measure, on average 4.9 yr later. Change in BMD (ΔBMD) was expressed as percent of gain or loss per year. Intraclass correlation coefficients for ΔBMD were calculated for MZ and DZ pairs. Genetic model-fitting analysis was conducted to partition the total variance of ΔBMD into three components: genetic (G), common environment (C), and specific environment, including measurement error (E). The index of heritability was estimated as the ratio of genetic variance over total variance.

Results: The mean annual ΔBMD was –0.37 ± 1.43% (SD) per year at the lumbar spine, −0.27 ± 1.32% at the total hip, −0.77 ± 1.66% at the total forearm, −0.36 ± 1.56% at the femoral neck, and −0.16 ± 0.81% at the whole body. Intraclass correlation coefficients were significantly higher in MZ than in DZ twins for all studied parameters, except at the hip sites. Results of genetic model-fitting analysis indicated that the indices of heritability for ΔBMD were 0.38, 0.49, and 0.44 for the lumbar spine, total forearm, and whole body, respectively. However, the genetic effect on ΔBMD at all hip sites was not significant.

Conclusions: These data suggest that, although genetic effects on bone loss with aging are less pronounced than on peak bone mass, they still account for ∼40% of the between-individual variation in bone loss for the lumbar spine, total forearm, and whole body in peri- and postmenopausal women. These findings are relevant for studies aimed at identification of genes that are involved in the regulation of bone loss.
A revised multi-Fickian moisture transport model to describe non-Fickian effects in wood
Authors: Frandsen Henrik Lund , Damkilde Lars , Svensson Staffan
Published: July 2007

This paper presents a study and a refinement of the sorption rate model in a so-called multi-Fickian or multi-phase model. This type of model describes the complex moisture transport system in wood, which consists of separate water vapor and bound-water diffusion interacting through sorption. At high relative humidities, the effect of this complex moisture transport system becomes apparent, and since a single Fickian diffusion equation fails to model the behavior, it has been referred to as non-Fickian or anomalous behavior. At low relative humidities, slow bound-water transport and fast sorption allow a simplification of the system to be modeled by a single Fickian diffusion equation. To determine the response of the system, the sorption rate model is essential. Here the function modeling the moisture-dependent adsorption rate is investigated based on existing experiments on thin wood specimens. In these specimens diffusion is shown to be negligible, allowing a separate study of the adsorption rate. The desorption rate has been observed to be slower at higher relative humidities as well, and an expression analogous to the adsorption rate model is proposed. Furthermore, the boundary conditions for the model are discussed, since discrepancies from corresponding models of moisture transport in paper products have been found.
The introduction of flexibility into a road ironwork installation
Authors: Brodrick B. V. , Collop A. C. , Brown S. F. , Cooper R.
Published: July 2007

This paper describes research undertaken to examine the option of replacing the upper portion of a rigid traditional brick access chamber with a flexible material, so that the system is more compatible with the surrounding flexible (asphalt) pavement construction, and is therefore less likely to exhibit premature failure. It focuses on one example of a suitable material, the influence of the confinement of this material within the surrounding pavement, and the importance of using a compatible backfill that acts as a bridge between the pavement and the ironwork. Full-scale experiments have been undertaken using a laboratory-based rolling-wheel test facility. Results show that flexibility incorporated into a road ironwork chamber can smooth out the step change in stiffness between a flexible pavement and a rigid chamber. Replacement of the upper portion of a chamber with a suitable flexible section results in the structure being more compatible with an asphalt pavement. It was also confirmed that the backfill around the chamber should be well compacted to provide good confinement, and the reinstatement material around the frame is a key element in the overall performance of a flexible chamber installation.
A fast RLS transversal filter for adaptive linear phase filtering
Authors: Slock Dirk T. M. , Kailath Thomas
Published: July 2007

A fast transversal filter algorithm is presented for the adaptive recursive least‐squares design of filters with linear phase. Connections with a popular method of spectrum estimation are explored. The algorithm is derived in a new framework, for the prewindowed given data case. Exact and soft‐constraint initialization are discussed and an improved rescue procedure is proposed. Data sequence weighting is introduced to allow for arbitrarily time‐varying weighting strategies, facilitating the tracking of arbitrarily non‐stationary phenomena.
Robust model reference adaptive control for multivariable plants
Authors: Tao G. , Ioannou P. A.
Published: July 2007

A complete procedure for generating and analysing robust model reference adaptive control schemes for multivariable plants is developed. The procedure consists of two parts: the first part involves the characterization of the integral structure of the modelled part of the plant, and the associated parametrization of the controller structure; and the second part involves the development of a general robust adaptive law for adjusting the controller parameters so that the closed‐loop plant is globally stable despite the presence of unmodelled dynamics and bounded disturbances. The use of dominantly rich signals for improving convergence and the bounds for the tracking and parameter error is also analysed.
Feedback linearization in the presence of uncertainties
Authors: Sastry S. S. , Kokotovic P. V.
Published: July 2007

After a brief review of feedback linearization, several approaches to the problem of parametric uncertainty are outlined, and the adaptive approach to both SISO and MIMO plants is discussed in detail. Based on experience with adaptive control of linear plants, two parameter update laws are chosen for nonlinear plants according to their relative degrees. The simpler of the two adaptive laws is applicable to plants with relative degree one. For plants with higher relative degree the adaptive scheme is more complex, but a simple update law can still be employed in the special case when the state diffeomorphism, required for linearization, does not depend on uncertain parameters. The simpler adaptive scheme is shown to be robust with respect to unmodelled dynamics.