bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical and Experimental Study on Sensitivity of Planar Piezoresistive Vibration Sensor
Authors: Zhang Lan , Lu Jian , Takagi Hideki , Maeda Ryutaro
Published: October 2013

We are engaged in developing a planar high-sensitivity piezoresistive vibration sensor with lower process cost and fewer package difficulties. For the pursuit of high sensitivity, the design and optimization of the sensor structure are studied together via a theoretical principle approach and finite-element method (FEM) analysis. The effects of the vibration sensor dimensions, including the solid width and length of flexure, the structure thickness, and the piezoresistor width, have been analyzed comprehensively. Design guidelines are presented for the fabrication of vibration sensors, and the sensitive position of the piezoresistor on a flexure beam is obtained for resolution optimization. To calculate the relative resistance changes in one-beam flexure, the theoretical approach and the FEM simulation are used. The results of the two methods agree well, the relative error being only 3.8%. Moreover, dynamic measurement of the structure of the prototype vibration sensor is implemented. The calculated and measured results of the relative displacement between the proof mass and substrate are in good agreement, which also demonstrated the FEM-based design to be reasonable.
New Direct Spectroscopic Method for Determination of Bias-Dependent Electronic States: Hard X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Under Device Operation
Authors: Yamashita Yoshiyuki , Yoshikawa Hideki , Chikyo Toyohiro , Kobayashi Keisuke
Published: October 2013

A bias application in hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy can successfully elucidate the bias-dependent electronic structures in devices. To demonstrate the versatility of this method, we investigated a Ru/HfO2/SiO2/Si structure as a prototype and directly observed the bias-dependent electronic states while keeping the device structure intact.
Studies on the Controlling of the Microstructural and Morphological Properties of Al Doped ZnO Thin Films Prepared by Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Gang Myeng Gil , Shin Seung Wook , Gurav K. V. , Wang YinBo , Agawane G. L. , Lee Jeong Yong , Moon Jong-Ha , Kim Jin Hyeok
Published: October 2013

Al doped ZnO (AZO) thin films were prepared on ZnO coated glass substrates by hydrothermal synthesis technique using aqueous solutions containing zinc nitrate hexahydrate, ammonium hydroxide, and different sodium citrate concentrations at 60 °C for 6 h. The effects of different trisodium citrate concentrations on the microstructural, crystallinity, morphological, optical, and chemical properties of thin films were investigated. X-ray diffraction studies showed that the AZO thin films were grown as a polycrystalline wurtzite hexagonal phase with a c-axis preferred orientation and without an unwanted second phase regardless of trisodium citrate concentrations. The thickness and grain sizes of AZO thin films decreased with increasing trisodium citrate concentration. The microstructure of AZO thin films was changed from flat to needle shaped and the morphology was smoother with increasing trisodium citrate concentrations. The AZO thin films have a high transmittance in the visible region ranging from 75 to 85% and a sharp edge from 366 to 374 nm.
Design and Fabrication of Bilayer Wire Grid Polarizer Using Ultraviolet Replicated Nanograting against Nickel Electroformed Nanostamp
Authors: Ju Jonghyun , Han Yun-ah , Kim Jwasun , Byeon Euihyeon , Kim Seok-min , Lee Yong-ho , Hwangbo Chang Kwon
Published: October 2013

A bilayer wire grid polarizer (B-WGP) composed of UV-replicated nanograting and deposited aluminum layer was designed, fabricated, and evaluated as a simpler and less costly reflective polarizer. To design the B-WGP structure, a parametric study of structural design factors on the simulated performance was conducted using rigorous coupled wave analysis. A durable electroformed nickel stamp was fabricated using a lithographed photo resist master pattern having a nanograting with a pitch of 110 nm, a line width of 65 nm, and a height of 80 nm. A polymer grating was fabricated by the UV replication process, and an aluminum layer with a thickness of 50 nm was deposited by electron-beam evaporation. To examine the performance of the fabricated bilayer wire-grid polarizer, the transmission spectra of p- and s-polarized light, and the extinction ratio spectra were measured and compared with the simulated values. The measured transmittance of p-polarized light and the extinction ratio of the fabricated bilayer wire grid polarizer were ∼40% and ∼103 in whole visible ranges, respectively.
Electrochemical Characteristics of a Diamond-Like-Carbon-Coated LiV3O8 Cathode When Used in a Li-Metal Battery with a Li-Powder Anode
Authors: Lee Jae Ha , Lee Jun Kyu , Yoon Woo Young
Published: October 2013

A diamond-like-carbon (DLC)-coated LiV3O8 cathode was synthesized for use in a rechargeable 2032-coin-type cell with a Li-powder electrode (LPE) as the anode. The LPE anode was produced using the droplet emulsion technique and was compacted by pressing. The initial discharge capacity of the LPE/DLC-coated LiV3O8 (LVO) cell was 238 mAh g-1 at a C-rate of 0.5, while that of a LPE/bare-LVO cell was 236 mAh g-1. After 50 cycles, the capacity retention rate of the DLC-coated-electrode-containing cell (92%) was higher than that of the uncoated-electrode-containing cell (77%). Results of electron probe microanalysis and Raman spectroscopy confirmed that the electrode had been coated with DLC. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to determine the sequence of formation of byproducts on the electrode after charging/discharging and to determine its surface composition. The voltage profile and impedance of the DLC-coated-electrode-containing cell were analyzed to determine the electrochemical characteristics of the DLC-coated cathode.
Characteristics of Optical Diffusers for Light-Emitting Diodes Backlight Unit Prepared by Melt-Extrusion Process
Authors: Kim Hyo Jin , Kim Dong Won , Kim Seong Woo
Published: October 2013

Using extrusion compounding followed by compression molding processes, polycarbonate-based optical diffusers with uniform dispersion of diffusing particles could be prepared for application in direct-lit LED backlight unit. Inorganic porous silica and organic silicone microsphere particles were employed as diffusing agents. The inclusion of diffusing particles up to 3 wt % substantially improved the luminance uniformity with respect to both location and viewing angle, and the effect was shown to be more prominent for the silicone particles. Alternatively, inorganic silica particles could yield diffusers with enhanced absolute luminance and thermal resistance property. The thermo-mechanical property of the elastic modulus was revealed to be improved upon addition of diffusing particles of silica and silicone with cross-linked structure.
Enhanced Gas Sensing Characteristics of Ag2O-Functionalized Networked In2O3Nanowires
Authors: Kim Hyoun Woo , Na Han Gil , Kwak Dong Sub , Cho Hong Yeon , Kwon Yong Jung
Published: October 2013

We have fabricated Ag2O-functionalized In2O3nanowires, in which the NO2gas sensing properties are enhanced. To achieve the functionalization, the core In2O3nanowires were sputter-deposited with the Ag shell layer, which turned out to be composed of cubic Ag particles. Subsequent thermal annealing changed the Ag nanoparticles to cubic nanoparticles with a cubic Ag2O phase. In spite of shell-coating and subsequent annealing, scanning electron microscopy images revealed that the products consisted of one-dimensional nanowires. In a NO2gas sensing test, the sensitivity of the Ag2O-functionalized sensor was lower than that of the nonfunctionalized sensor, presumably owing to the significant volume of the depletion region in the Ag2O–In2O3interface. However, the Ag2O-functionalized In2O3nanowires exhibited exceptionally fast response and recovery compared with bare In2O3nanowires. We suggest that not only the catalytic effect but also the spillover effect of Ag2O nanoparticles is mainly responsible for the observed enhancement of sensing capabilities in terms of response/recovery time.
Evolution of Defect-Associated Subband Energy States in Nanocrystalline TiO2 Films on Si and Ge Substrates
Authors: Kim Jinwoo , Kim Jinseo , Lee Young-An , Seo Hyungtak
Published: October 2013

We identified the electronic states in the conduction- and valence-band edges associated with intrinsic defects in nanocrystalline TiO2 layers on Si and Ge substrates. This was accomplished through spectroscopic study with soft X-ray photoemission spectroscopy and visible-ultraviolet spectroscopic ellipsometry. The interpretation of the spectra based on molecular orbital (MO) theory well explains the origin of empty and occupied states of band edge in TiO2 with the correct assignment of MO states. The evolution of these band-edge states under thermal nanocrystalline growth and interfacial chemical mixing as a function of type of substrate was investigated, taking into consideration the asymmetric local bonding distortion and fast atomic diffusion at the grain boundary. The engineering solution to utilize TiO2 as a gate dielectric on Ge substrate is demonstrated by implanting SiON/Si interfacial layer. This study suggests that the control of electronically active defect density and energy level in nanoscale TiO2 thin films is strongly affected by thermal grain expansion and interfacial chemistry, depending on the semiconductor substrates used.
How Contacting Electrodes Affect Single π-Conjugated Molecular Electronic States: Local Density of States of Phthalocyanine Nanomolecules on MgO(001), Cu(111), Ag(001), Fe(001), and Mn(001)
Authors: Nakashima Shuhei , Yamagishi Yuhei , Oiso Kenji , Yamada Toyo Kazu
Published: October 2013

Single molecules have attracted much interest as new materials for future spin electronic devices; however, many open questions still remain. One of them is how the electronic local density of states (LDOS) of single molecules is affected when they are in contact with electrodes. We show a systematic study of the LDOS of π-conjugated phthalocyanine (H2Pc) nanomolecules adsorbed on various electrodes, namely, (1) MgO(001) thin films grown on Ag(001), (2) noble metals of Cu(111) and Ag(001), and (3) 3d magnetic metals of Fe(001) and Mn(001), adupting scanning tunneling spectroscopy techniques with an ultrahigh-vacuum scanning tunneling microscopy setup at room temperature. Since MgO thin films cut the electronic coupling from the substrate Ag(001), we could observe H2Pc molecular states at -1.5 and +1.0 eV. H2Pc molecules on the noble metal substrates form a pattern with a square unit cell of about 1.5×1.5 nm2 and have similar LDOS peaks near the Fermi energy. Strong hybridizations between the substrate 3d spin-polarized states and the molecular π orbitals produce new molecular states of H2Pc molecules adsorbed on Fe(001) and Mn(001) near the energy positions of the Fe(001) minority spin state and the Mn(001) majority spin state, respectively.
Long Length, High-Density Carbon Nanotube Film Grown by Slope Control of Temperature Profile for Applications in Heat Dissipation
Authors: Kawabata Akio , Murakami Tomo , Nihei Mizuhisa , Yokoyama Naoki
Published: October 2013

We have developed a new growth method for a film of dense, vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs). We varied the slope of the growth temperature profile between 450 and 800 °C. By using the method with an Fe/Ti catalyst, the filling factor of the CNT film was measured to be 0.28, which is 20 times denser than that in the case where conventional CVD growth is utilized. We name this growth method the slope control of temperature profile (STEP) growth. Another feature of CNT films obtained by STEP growth is their mirror like surfaces. This allows for the measurement of the thermal conductivity by a pulse optical heating thermoreflectance method. The maximum thermal conductivity of the STEP-grown CNT film was 260 W m-1 K-1, which is higher than those of a solder and Si. This result suggests that STEP-grown CNT films are effective heat dissipation materials and can be used as thermal interface material (TIM) and thermal through silicon via (TSV).
Nano-Scale Tensile Testing and Sample Preparation Techniques for Silicon Nanowires
Authors: Fujii Tatsuya , Sudoh Koichi , Sakakihara Shouichi , Naito Muneyuki , Inoue Shozo , Namazu Takahiro
Published: October 2013

In this paper, we describe an experimental technique to achieve a highly reliable characterization of the mechanical properties of silicon (Si) nanowires (NWs). A reusable on-chip Si device consisting of comb-drive electrostatic actuator for generating tensile force and capacitive sensors for measuring tensile force and displacement was designed and developed for quasi-static tensile test of Si NWs. The combination of focused ion beam (FIB) fabrication, FIB-assisted chemical vapor deposition, and probe manipulation enabled us to directly fabricate the NWs on the device. This sampling technique led to high yielding percentage of nano-scale tensile testing. The NWs were made from 200-nm-thick Si membranes that were produced by using silicon-on-nothing membrane fabrication technique. Several Si NWs were annealed at 700 °C in ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) for 5 min in order to examine the influence of annealing on the mechanical characteristics. The mean Young's modulus for nonannealed NWs was 129.1±10.1 GPa. After UHV annealing, the mean value was improved to be 168.1±1.3 GPa, comparable to the ideal value for Si(001)[110]. The annealing process gave rise to improving the Young's modulus, whereas it degraded the strength. Transmission electron microscopy suggested that recrystallization and gallium nanoclusters formation by annealing would have changed the mechanical characteristics.
Structure Analysis of Composition Modulation in Epitaxially-Grown III–V Semiconductor Alloys
Authors: Ishimaru Manabu , Hasegawa Shigehiko , Asahi Hajime , Sato Kazuhisa , Konno Toyohiko J.
Published: October 2013

It has been reported that composition modulation is naturally formed in some of the epitaxially-grown thin films. Structural characterization of these materials is necessary for controlling their nanostructures precisely. Here, we prepared epitaxially-grown III–V semiconductor alloys and characterized their atomistic structures by means of diffraction crystallography and electron microscopy techniques. As a consequence, we found that the following quantum well structures are spontaneously formed: (1) ultrashort period lateral composition modulation (LCM) with a modulation period of ∼1 nm; (2) complex vertical composition modulated (VCM) structures consisting of two modulated structures with a different period (∼4 and ∼25 nm). The former LCM structure is created via nanoscale phase separation at the growth surface, while the shorter-period modulation in the later VCM structure is induced by rotating a substrate through an inhomogeneous distribution of the anion flux within a chamber.
Control of Nano-Structure of Photocatalytic TiO2Films by Oxygen Ion Assisted Glancing Angle Deposition
Authors: Hoshi Yoichi , Yasuda Yoji , Kitahara Naoto
Published: October 2013

Control of the nano-structure of TiO2photocatalytic films by a glancing angle deposition was investigated using an oxygen ion assisted reactive evaporation (OARE) system. The porosity of the film was increased as the incidence angle of Ti vapor increased, and films with clearly separated columnar grains were obtained at an incident angle above 60°. The increase in the porosity led to a significant decrease in UV reflectance and the film deposited at 60° had a large UV absorptance above 80% at 300 nm. The photocatalytic performance of the film, however, did not improve remarkably, since the crystallinity of the film was degraded by the deposition at a high incidence angle above 60°. To improve the crystallinity of the film, control of energy of the incident oxygen ions was attempted. However, only a slight improvement of photocatalytic properties was observed.
Monocrystalline InN Films Grown at High Rate by Organometallic Vapor Phase Epitaxy with Nitrogen Plasma Activation Supported by Gyrotron Radiation
Authors: Vodopyanov Alexander , Buzynin Yurii , Mansfeld Dmitry , Khrykin Oleg , Drozdov Yurii , Yunin Pavel , Lukyanov Andrei , Viktorov Mikhail , Golubev Sergey , Shashkin Vladimir
Published: October 2013

InN hexagonal monocrystalline films were grown on yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) (111) and Al2O3(0001) by the organometallic vapor phase epitaxy method with nitrogen activation in the electron cyclotron resonance discharge, supported by gyrotron radiation. The film growth rate reached 10 µm/h. In this paper, we present data on the morphology, structure, and photoluminescence properties of the grown films.
Selective Detection of Low-Velocity Ions Using Nuclear Emulsion Films
Authors: Naka Tatsuhiro , Kuge Ken'ichi , Nakamura Mitsuhiro
Published: October 2013

We focused on the difference between the photographic sensitivities of nuclear emulsion films by the electronic stopping power (ESP) and nuclear stopping power (NSP) of charged particles. The effects of high-velocity particles, in which ESP was dominant, and of low-velocity particles, where both ESP and NSP were effective, were compared. Low-velocity Kr ions formed internal latent images by the interaction with NSP. This may be due to the formation of crystal defects by atomic collisions along the route of these ions in silver halide crystals, and such defects are detected only by internal development. On the other hand, high-velocity ions like α-rays did not form internal latent images in the emulsion with Au+S sensitization, because sensitization centers on the surface of crystals accumulated excited electrons by ESP and only surface latent images were formed. It is demonstrated that internal latent images are characteristic signals by NSP. Low-velocity ions are selectively detectable by the internal development, even in high background fields like γ-rays, β-rays, or other high-velocity ions.
Bidirectional Flow in the Vertebral Artery Is Not Always Indicative of the Subclavian Steal Phenomenon
Authors: Chen Shun-Ping , Hu Yuan-Ping , Fan Liang-Hao , Zhu Xue-Lian
Published: October 2013

Objective

To evaluate the causes of bidirectional flow in the vertebral artery detected by Doppler sonography and its differential diagnosis.

Methods

Twenty‐nine patients with bidirectional flow in the vertebral artery were retrospectively studied. The vertebral artery parameters, including peak antegrade velocity (PAV), peak reversed velocity (PRV), maximum peak velocity (MPV), peak systolic velocity, resistive index (RI), and diameter, were measured. The MPV was defined as the MPV of bidirectional flow regardless of the velocity of antegrade or retrograde flow. To better predict the cause of bidirectional flow, receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed for these parameters, and the best cutoff values were obtained. The cause of bidirectional flow was determined by angiography.

Results

The causes of bidirectional flow were classified as the subclavian steal phenomenon (n = 21) and factors unrelated to the steal phenomenon (n = 8, including a hypoplastic vertebral artery [n = 4] and proximal vertebral artery stenosis and occlusion [n = 4]). Significant differences were observed between the steal phenomenon and non–steal phenomenon groups (P< .05) for MPV, PRV, PAV, target vertebral artery diameter, and contralateral RI. To determine the cause of bidirectional flow, areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for the different parameters were obtained: 0.929 for MPV, 0.881 for PRV, 0.824 for PAV, 0.753 for target vertebral artery diameter, and 0.845 for contralateral RI. The cutoff value for MPV was 26.1 cm/s, and the accuracy was 93% (27 of 29).

Conclusions

Bidirectional flow in the vertebral artery is not always indicative of the subclavian steal phenomenon. Measurement of hemodynamic parameters in the vertebral artery, such as MPV, can facilitate determination of the cause of bidirectional flow.
Speckle‐Tracking Imaging to Monitor Myocardial Function After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Yin Zhe-Yu , Li Xiao-Feng , Tu Ying-Feng , Dong Dan-Dan , Zhao Dong-Liang , Shen Baozhong
Published: October 2013

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in myocardial function in patients after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery using longitudinal and circumferential strain on speckle‐tracking imaging.

Methods

A total of 145 patients who successfully underwent CABG surgery with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 50% or greater were enrolled in this study. Patients were classified into 4 groups based on age: group 1 (33–59 years), group 2 (60–64 years), group 3 (65–69 years), and group 4 (70–79 years). Routine echocardiography and longitudinal and circumferential strain measurements on speckle‐tracking imaging were performed 1 week before and 1, 3, and 6 months after the CABG.

Results

In all groups, longitudinal strain increased significantly at 3 and 6 months after CABG therapy compared to baseline (P < .05). A significant increase in circumferential strain was found 1 month after the CABG in groups 1, 2, and 3, and a continuous increase in the parameter was observed in all groups 3 months after therapy (P < .05). However, the LVEF, left ventricular end‐diastolic dimension, and stroke volume measured by routine echocardiography were not significantly changed after successful CABG treatment in all groups during 6 months of follow‐up.

Conclusions

Based on the results of our study in all age groups, speckle‐tracking imaging parameters are more effective than the LVEF, left ventricular end‐diastolic dimension, and stroke volume for monitoring improvement in myocardial function after CABG surgery.
Sonographically Guided Transhepatic Core Biopsies of Right Renal and Adrenal Masses
Authors: Park Sung Yoon , Park Byung Kwan , Kim Chan Kyo
Published: October 2013

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the accuracy and safety of sonographically guided transhepatic biopsies of right upper renal and adrenal masses.

Methods

Ten sonographically guided transhepatic biopsies were performed in 10 patients with 6 right upper renal masses and 4 right adrenal masses that were invisible or inaccessible via an extrahepatic route. The control population comprised 19 sonographically guided extrahepatic biopsies that were performed in 19 patients with 18 right upper renal masses and 1 right adrenal mass. Transhepatic and extrahepatic biopsies were compared with respect to the diagnostic and complication rates. The mass sizes, biopsy distances, numbers and lengths of cores, and biopsy durations were also compared.

Results

The diagnostic rates of transhepatic and extrahepatic biopsies were 90% (9 of 10) and 89% (17 of 19), respectively (P > .999). The complication rates of transhepatic and extrahepatic biopsies were 10% (1 of 10) and 21% (4 of 19; P > .999). None of these biopsies resulted in major complications. The mean mass sizes, biopsy distances, and numbers of cores ± SD for transhepatic and extrahepatic biopsies were 33.0 ± 14.3 and 46.9 ± 18.5 mm, 100.5 ± 17.9 and 76.5 ± 9.9 mm, and 2.7 ± 0.9 and 4.0 ± 0.7, respectively (P = .046, .038, and .001). However, the core lengths and biopsy durations were not significantly different between these biopsies (P = .91 and .077).

Conclusions

Sonographically guided transhepatic core biopsies appear to be feasible and safe procedures for the histologic diagnosis of right upper renal and adrenal masses that are either invisible or inaccessible via an extrahepatic route.
Sonographically Guided Core Biopsy
Authors: Oge Tufan , Yalcin Omer T. , Ozalp S. Sinan , Kebapci Mahmut , Aydin Yunus , Telli Elcin
Published: October 2013

Objectives

We hypothesized that sonographically guided core biopsy is an effective method for the differential diagnosis of adnexal masses and evaluated patients who underwent core biopsies in our gynecologic oncology department.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 55 patients who underwent sonographically guided core biopsies in our gynecologic oncology department between 2010 and 2013. Patients with suspected ovarian malignancies who were unsuitable for optimal debulking surgery and patients at risk for higher morbidity and mortality because of a poor performance status, suspected nongynecologic tumors, and peritoneal tuberculosis were indicated for sonographically guided biopsy.

Results

The indications for sonographically guided core biopsy were candidacy for suboptimal cytoreduction (n = 32 [58.2%]), a poor performance status (n = 11 [20.0%]), and suspected nongynecologic tumors (n = 12 [21.8%]). Histopathologic evaluations revealed primary ovarian tumors in 36 patients (65.5%). Tuberculosis was found to be the second most common disease (n = 8 [14.5%]) among the patients who underwent core biopsies. In 2 patients (3.6%), histologic examination revealed metastatic colorectal cancer.

Conclusions

Sonographically guided core biopsy may be preferred as a minimally invasive procedure for managing adnexal masses, particularly in patients with advanced ovarian cancer and high comorbidities who might benefit from neoadjuvant chemotherapy and in cases of suspected nongynecologic tumors, including pelvic tuberculosis.
Manipulating Gene Expression in Projection‐Specific Neuronal Populations Using Combinatorial Viral Approaches
Authors: Gore Bryan B. , Soden Marta E. , Zweifel Larry S.
Published: October 2013

The mammalian brain contains tremendous structural and genetic complexity that is vital for its function. The elucidation of gene expression profiles in the brain, coupled with the development of large‐scale connectivity maps and emerging viral vector–based approaches for target‐selective gene manipulation, now allows for detailed dissection of gene‐circuit interfaces. This protocol details how to perform combinatorial viral injections to manipulate gene expression in subsets of neurons interconnecting two brain regions. This method uses stereotaxic injection of a retrograde transducing CAV2‐Cre virus into one brain region, combined with injection of a locally transducing Cre‐dependent AAV virus into another brain region. This technique is widely applicable to the genetic dissection of neural circuitry, as it enables selective expression of candidate genes, dominant‐negatives, fluorescent reporters, or genetic tools within heterogeneous populations of neurons, based upon their projection targets. Curr. Protoc. Neurosci. 65:4.35.1‐4.35.20. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
In Situ Data Compression Algorithm for Detailed Numerical Simulation of Liquid Metal Filtration through Regularly Structured Porous Media
Authors: Lehmann Henry , Werzner Eric , Mendes Miguel A. A. , Trimis Dimosthenis , Jung Bernhard , Ray Subhashis
Published: October 2013

Filtration of metal melts is a common practice used in order to produce materials that meet high requirements with respect to strength and toughness. Numerical simulations of the filtration process not only help to investigate the involved mechanisms but can also contribute to process optimization. Owing to the presence of a wide range of spatial and temporal scales which have to be resolved, these simulations are generally carried out on extremely refined computational grids with high temporal resolution using massively parallelized computation. However, the amount of data resulting from such computations can easily exceed dozens of terabytes, which imposes a severe hindrance on the storage, visualization, and analysis of the solutions. A promising approach for addressing this problem is in situ data compression, where data is already compressed during the simulation run on the supercomputer rather than as a post‐processing step. In this article, a detailed numerical simulation is described for the liquid metal flow through a foam‐like filter structure using the lattice Boltzmann method. A novel in situ data compression procedure is investigated that, while lossy, can achieve arbitrary precision to meet an error bound specified by the user. The efficiency and accuracy of the algorithm are evaluated by statistical analysis and by comparing the trajectories of tracer particles in uncompressed and compressed flow fields. The results demonstrate that, depending on the desired accuracy, compression rates of as low as 20% of the original data size can be achieved.
Electronic properties of polypyrrole based TiO2 nanofiber composite
Authors: Tiwari Dinesh Chandra , Atri Priyanka , Sharma Rishi
Published: October 2013

In this work, Polypyrrole (PPy), Titanium dioxide nanofiber (TiO2‐nf) are prepared by oxidative polymerization and hydrothermal process respectively. The PPy/TiO2‐nf composite is prepared by in situ oxidative polymerization in the presence of pyrrole monomer and TiO2‐nf. The nanocomposite and TiO2‐nf are then characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) techniques and XRD studies. Dielectric studies of PPy/TiO2‐nf composite is carried out in the frequency range of 1 KHz‐3 MHz at varying temperature and it shows anomalous behavior at 1MHz, where its value reaches to its minimum value of 13 at room temperature and this dip remains even at higher temperature. Impedance study is used to understand the grain and grain boundary effects of the material; frequency dependent ac conductivity has two regions separated at 1MHz, which is being explained by hopping conduction and Maxwell‐Wagner type mechanism, respectively. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2014, 131, 40036.
A Schiff‐based sensor with turn‐on fluorescence for selective detection of Hg2+
Authors: Wan Chin‐Feng , Lin Hsiang‐Yi , Chien Cho , Wu An‐Tai
Published: October 2013

A simple Schiff‐base colorimetric receptor 1 was prepared. It exhibits an ‘off–on‐type’ mode with high sensitivity in the presence of Hg2+. The change in color is very easily observed by the naked eye in the presence of Hg2+, whereas other metal cations do not induce such a change. A Job plot indicated a 1 : 1 complexation stoichiometry between receptor 1 and Hg2+. The association constant for 1–Hg2+ in Tetrahydrofuran (THF) was determined to be 1.3 × 109 M‐1 using a Hill plot. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phosphoserine promotes osteogenic differentiation of human adipose stromal cells through bone morphogenetic protein signalling
Authors: Ying Xiaozhou , Chen Xiaowei , Cheng Shaowen , Guo Xiaoshan , Chen Hua , Xu Hua zi
Published: October 2013

Phosphoserine has potential effectiveness as a simple substrate in preparing bone replacement materials, which could enhance bone forming ability. However, there is a need to investigate the independent effect of phosphoserine on osteogenic differentiation of human adipose stem cells (hADSCs). hADSCs were cultured in an osteogenic medium with phosphoserine. Cell proliferation was analysed by CCK8 and osteogenic differentiation was measured by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, von Kossa staining and real time‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). No stimulatory effect of phosphoserine on cell proliferation was noted at Days 1, 4 and 7. Deposition of calcium increased after the addition of phosphoserine. mRNA expression of type I collagen (COL‐I), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin (OCN), Osterix, bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) and RUNX2 increased markedly with phosphoserine treatment. The BMP‐2 antagonist, noggin, and its receptor kinase inhibitors, dorsomorphin and LDN‐193189, attenuated phosphoserine‐promoted ALP activity. BMP‐responsive and Runx2‐responsive reporters were activated by phosphoserine treatment. Thus phosphoserine can promote osteogenic differentiation of hADSCs, probably by activating BMP and Runx2 pathways, which could be a promising approach for enhancing osteogenic capacity of cell‐based construction in bone tissue engineering.
Insights into the Catalytic Performance of Mesoporous H‐ZSM‐5‐Supported Cobalt in Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis
Authors: Sartipi Sina , Alberts Margje , Santos Vera P. , Nasalevich Maxim , Gascon Jorge , Kapteijn Freek
Published: October 2013

Mesoporous H‐ZSM‐5 (mesoH‐ZSM‐5) was used as a carrier for a series of bifunctional Co‐based catalysts for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis with ZrO2 and/or Ru added as promoters. The reducibility of the catalysts was studied in detail by using temperature‐programmed reduction and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy. A comparison of the catalytic performance of Co/mesoH‐ZSM‐5 and Co/SiO2 (a conventional catalyst), after 140 h on stream, reveals that the former is two times more active and three times more selective to the C5–C11 fraction with a large content of unsaturated hydrocarbons, which is next to α‐olefins. The acid‐catalyzed conversion of n‐hexane and 1‐hexene, as model reactions, demonstrates that the improvement in the selectivity toward gasoline range hydrocarbons is due to the acid‐catalyzed reactions of the Fischer–Tropsch α‐olefins over the acidic zeolite. The formation of methane over the zeolite‐supported Co catalysts originates from direct CO hydrogenation and hydrocarbon hydrogenolysis on coordinatively unsaturated Co sites, which are stabilized as a consequence of a strong metal–zeolite interaction. Although the addition of either ZrO2 or Ru increases the catalyst reducibility considerably, it does not affect the product selectivity significantly.
Exploring the Significance of Emotion for Mediation Practice
Authors: Picard Cheryl , Siltanen Janet
Published: October 2013

The authors report on their exploratory study examining the learning process embedded in mediation. Their research procedures involved directed reflexive journaling followed by group discussions to generate insights into how mediation practitioners experience learning in mediation. The significance and role of emotion emerged as central to the dynamic of this learning process. The research indicates that the experience of positive and negative emotions attached to learning needs to be allowed and attended to within the mediation dynamic. This suggests that mediation practitioners need the competence to follow and understand their own learning‐attached emotions as well as those of the parties.
Mucosal innate immune cells regulate both gut homeostasis and intestinal inflammation
Authors: Kurashima Yosuke , Goto Yoshiyuki , Kiyono Hiroshi
Published: October 2013

Continuous exposure of intestinal mucosal surfaces to diverse microorganisms and their metabolites reflects the biological necessity for a multifaceted, integrated epithelial and immune cell‐mediated regulatory system. The development and function of the host cells responsible for the barrier function of the intestinal surface (e.g., M cells, Paneth cells, goblet cells, and columnar epithelial cells) are strictly regulated through both positive and negative stimulation by the luminal microbiota. Stimulation by damage‐associated molecular patterns and commensal bacteria‐derived microbe‐associated molecular patterns provokes the assembly of inflammasomes, which are involved in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal epithelium. Mucosal immune cells located beneath the epithelium play critical roles in regulating both the mucosal barrier and the relative composition of the luminal microbiota. Innate lymphoid cells and mast cells, in particular, orchestrate the mucosal regulatory system to create a mutually beneficial environment for both the host and the microbiota. Disruption of mucosal homeostasis causes intestinal inflammation such as that seen in inflammatory bowel disease. Here, we review the recent research on the biological interplay among the luminal microbiota, epithelial cells, and mucosal innate immune cells in both healthy and pathological conditions.
Application of an electronic micropenetrometer to assess mechanical stability of biological soil crusts
Authors: Drahorad Sylvie Laureen , Felix‐Henningsen Peter
Published: October 2013

An in situ determination of biological soil‐crust stability was carried out in two study sites along a sharp rainfall gradient. Penetration resistance (PR) of the crusts was measured using a newly developed light‐weight needle‐type electronic micropenetrometer. The depth‐related PR data revealed two sections possessing different structures and stability. The topcrust (0–2 mm) had significantly higher amounts of N, organic C, carbonates, and salts as compared to the underlain subcrust. The mean PR of the topcrust was 0.68 MPa for the southern study site, Nizzana‐South (≈ 100 mm annual rainfall), and it increased significantly for the northern study site, Nizzana‐69 (≈ 170 mm annual rainfall), with a mean of 1.11 MPa. A subcrust (2–30 mm) was identified that was characterized by a high amount of carbonates and a PR > 2 MPa. The electronic micropenetrometer system is a promising device for identifying areas of changing crust stability in relation to biological soil‐crust properties. The overall stability of biological soil crusts depends on the topcrust and subcrust structure. This structure is linked to abiotic and biotic factors and likely in relation to the amount of annual precipitation.
A Synthetic Control Chart for Monitoring Process Variability
Authors: Rajmanya S. V. , Ghute V. B.
Published: October 2013

The control chart based on Downton's estimator (D chart) has recently been introduced in the literature for monitoring the process variability. The D chart is found to be equally efficient to the S chart in terms of detecting shifts in process variability. In this paper, salient features of D chart and the conforming run length chart are combined to produce synthetic D chart. The average run length performance of the synthetic D chart is investigated using simulation study and is compared with the originally proposed D chart and some other procedures proposed in the literature. It is found that it has an improved performance in comparison with the traditional control charts for process variability. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Delineation of the TRAK binding regions of the kinesin‐1 motor proteins
Authors: Randall Thomas S. , Moores Carolyn , Stephenson F. Anne
Published: October 2013

Understanding specific cargo distribution in differentiated cells is a major challenge. Trafficking kinesin proteins (TRAKs) are kinesin adaptors. They bind the cargo binding domain of kinesin‐1 motor proteins forming a link between the motor and their cargoes. To refine the TRAK1/2 binding sites within the kinesin‐1 cargo domain, rationally designed C‐terminal truncations of KIF5A and KIF5C were generated and their co‐association with TRAK1/2 determined by quantitative co‐immunoprecipitations following co‐expression in mammalian cells. Three contributory regions forming the TRAK2 binding site within KIF5A and KIF5C cargo binding domains were delineated. Differences were found between TRAK1/2 with respect to association with KIF5A.
Surveillance tools and strategies for animal diseases in a shifting climate context
Authors: Salman Mo D.
Published: October 2013

Animal disease surveillance is watching an animal population closely to determine if a specific disease or a group of diseases makes an incursion so that a prior plan of action can be implemented. The purpose of this paper is to review existing tools and techniques for an animal disease-surveillance system that can incorporate the monitoring of climate factors and related data to enhance understanding of disease epidemiology. In recent decades, there has been interest in building information systems by combining various data sources for different purposes. Within the field of animal health, there have only been limited attempts at the integration of surveillance data with relevant climate conditions. Statistical techniques for data integration, however, have been explored and used by several disciplines. Clearly the application of available techniques for linking climate data with surveillance systems should be explored with the aim of facilitating prevention, mitigation, and adaptation responses in the surveillance setting around climate change and animal disease risks. Drawing on this wider body of work, three of the available techniques that can be utilized in the analysis of surveillance data with the available climate data sets are reviewed.
On the Internal Representation of Numerical Magnitude and Physical Size
Authors: Fitousi Daniel
Published: October 2013

A nascent idea in the numerical cognition literature – the analogical hypothesis ( Pinel, Piazza, Bihan, & Dehaene, 2004 ) – assumes a common noisy code for the representation of symbolic (e.g., numerals) and nonsymbolic (e.g., numerosity, physical size, luminance) magnitudes. The present work subjected this assumption to various tests from the perspective of General Recognition Theory (GRT; Ashby & Townsend, 1986 ) – a multidimensional extension of Signal Detection Theory ( Green & Swets, 1966 ). The GRT was applied to the dimensions of numerical magnitude and physical size with the following goals: (a) characterizing the internal representation of these dimensions in the psychological space, and (b) assessing various types of (in)dependence and separability governing the perception of these dimensions. The results revealed various violations of independence and separability with Stroop incongruent, but not with Stroop congruent stimuli. The outcome suggests that there are deep differences in architecture between Stroop congruent and incongruent stimuli that reach well beyond the semantic relationship involved.
Refining the Continuous Tracking Paradigm to Investigate Implicit Motor Learning
Authors: Zhu F. F. , Poolton J. M. , Maxwell J. P. , Fan J. K. M. , Leung G. K. K. , Masters R. S. W.
Published: October 2013

In two experiments we investigated factors that undermine conclusions about implicit motor learning in the continuous tracking paradigm. In Experiment 1, we constructed a practice phase in which all three segments of the waveform pattern were random, in order to examine whether tracking performance decreased as a consequence of time spent on task. Tracking error was lower in the first segment than in the middle segment and lower in the middle segment than in the final segment, indicating that tracking performance decreased as a function of increasing time-on-task. In Experiment 2, the waveform pattern presented in the middle segment was identical in each trial of practice. In a retention test, tracking performance on the repeated segment was superior to tracking performance on the random segments of the waveform. Furthermore, substitution of the repeated pattern with a random pattern (in a transfer test) resulted in a significantly increased tracking error. These findings imply that characteristics of the repeated pattern were learned. Crucially, tests of pattern recognition implied that participants were not explicitly aware of the presence of a recurring segment of waveform. Recommendations for refining the continuous tracking paradigm for implicit learning research are proposed.
The Oxygen Paradox of Neurovascular Coupling
Authors: Leithner Christoph , Royl Georg
Published: October 2013

The coupling of cerebral blood flow (CBF) to neuronal activity is well preserved during evolution. Upon changes in the neuronal activity, an incompletely understood coupling mechanism regulates diameter changes of supplying blood vessels, which adjust CBF within seconds. The physiologic brain tissue oxygen content would sustain unimpeded brain function for only 1 second if continuous oxygen supply would suddenly stop. This suggests that the CBF response has evolved to balance oxygen supply and demand. Surprisingly, CBF increases surpass the accompanying increases of cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2). However, a disproportionate CBF increase may be required to increase the concentration gradient from capillary to tissue that drives oxygen delivery. However, the brain tissue oxygen content is not zero, and tissue pO2 decreases could serve to increase oxygen delivery without a CBF increase. Experimental evidence suggests that CMRO2 can increase with constant CBF within limits and decreases of baseline CBF were observed with constant CMRO2. This conflicting evidence may be viewed as an oxygen paradox of neurovascular coupling. As a possible solution for this paradox, we hypothesize that the CBF response has evolved to safeguard brain function in situations of moderate pathophysiological interference with oxygen supply.
Sirt6 regulates postnatal growth plate differentiation and proliferation via Ihh signaling
Authors: Piao Jinying , Tsuji Kunikazu , Ochi Hiroki , Iwata Munetaka , Koga Daisuke , Okawa Atsushi , Morita Sadao , Takeda Shu , Asou Yoshinori
Published: October 2013

Sirtuin 6 (Sirt6) is a mammalian homologue of NAD+-dependent histone deacetylase Sir2. Although Sirt6−/− mice exhibit growth retardation, the role of Sirt6 in cartilage metabolism is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the Sirt6 signaling pathway in cartilage metabolism. Immunohistological evaluation of the tibial growth plate in Sirt6−/− mice exhibited impaired proliferation and differentiation of chondrocytes, reduced expression of Indian hedgehog (Ihh) and a senescent phenotype. When Sirt6 was knocked down in chondrocytes in vitro, expression of Ihh and its downstream genes were reduced. Impaired differentiation by Sirt6 silencing was completely rescued by administration of a Hh signal agonist. When sirtuins were activated, chondrocyte differentiation was enhanced together with activation of Ihh signal and these effects were abrogated by Sirt6 silencing. ChIP assay revealed the affinity of ATF4 to the Ihh promoter was markedly decreased by Sirt6 knockdown. These data indicate Sirt6 directly controls proliferation and differentiation of chondrocytes.
The Discovery of BIIB021 and BIIB028
Authors: Lundgren Karen , Biamonte Marco A.
Published: October 2013

This chapter describes the fundamental ideas that led to the discovery of the purine-based Hsp90 inhibitors BIIB021 and BIIB028. The first-generation drug BIIB021 completely inhibits tumor growth in murine cancer models when administered orally at its maximum tolerated dose (MTD, 625 mg/kg/week, p.o.). BIIB021 is the first Hsp90 inhibitor to have entered clinical trials as an oral drug, and completed Phase II clinical trials. The second-generation compound, BIIB028, is a highly water-soluble molecule designed for parenteral administration. BIIB028 is a phosphate pro-drug that releases the active metabolite CF2772 in vivo. In mouse models, BIIB028 has an unprecedented efficacy and tolerability. It causes tumor regressions at its maximum tolerated dose (MTD, 120 mg/kg/week, i.v. or i.p.) and still prevents tumor growth when given at only one-eighth of its MTD; this makes BIIB028 a potentially best-in-class drug. BIIB028 completed Phase I studies as an intravenous formulation.
Optimal incentive design for collaborative primary–secondary transmission with primary data‐rate constraints
Authors: Kim Insook , Kim Dongwoo
Published: October 2013

In this study, the authors investigate a maximum incentive that a primary user (PU) can charge a secondary user (SU) on SU's power consumption devoted to delivering its own signal. As a constraint, the PU also should achieve its data rate at a predefined level. Working as a half‐duplex relay, SU hears PU's signal in the first phase and sends its own signal superimposed on PU's signal in the second phase. SU optimises power allocation between the two signals in the second phase, accounting for the expense‐benefit trade‐off in sending its own signal. Depending on SU's receiver mode or the number of SU's receiving nodes, SU's decision on power allocation is differently optimised. The authors also provide optimal incentive for PU by optimal pricing for different occasions. The optimality is proved in this study. Since the optimality is purchased in practice when PU has perfect knowledge of the SU's response on the PU‐issuing price, the authors also propose an efficient interactive price‐searching protocol between distributed PU and SU. Numerical investigations are given to verify and illustrate the optimality of the proposed price as well as the protocol.