bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential of Generalised Two-Dimensional Correlation Spectroscopy in the near Infrared Region
Authors: Ozaki Yukihiro , Noda Isao
Published: May 2009

This review demonstrates the potential of generalised two-dimensional (2D) correlation spectroscopy in the near infrared (NIR) region. Three examples of generalised 2D NIR correlation analysis, which are all concerned with the temperature-dependent spectral variations of self-associated molecules, are discussed in this paper. The first example presents the 2D correlation approach to the analysis of a set of NIR spectra of oleyl alcohol in the pure liquid state under temperature changes. The 2D NIR analysis enhances the spectral resolution and simplifies the spectra with overlapped bands. For example, it was found that a band at 7090 cm−1, arising from the first overtone of an OH stretching mode of the monomeric alcohol, consists of two bands due to the rotational isomerism of the free OH group. The second example deals with the temperature-dependent NIR spectral changes of N-methylacetamide (NMA). The close-up view of 2D NIR correlation spectra of NMA, obtained at narrow spectral and temperature windows, enabled us to propose not only band assignments in the 6800–6050 cm−1 region, where the first overtones of stretching modes of free, free-end and hydrogen-bonded NH groups were expected to appear, but also a detailed mechanistic picture of the thermally-induced dissociation of NMA for each temperature range. A 2D NIR study of premelting behaviour and hydrogen bonds of Nylon 12 is discussed as the third example. The asynchronous 2D NIR correlation spectrum of Nylon 12 obtained from 30 to 150°C in the 6900–6100 cm−1 region indicated that the amide group with a free carbonyl oxygen appears first and then the unassociated free amide and amide with free NH follow as the temperature is increased. The asynchronous spectrum in the 6000–5500 cm−1 region, where the first overtones of the CH2 stretching modes are expected to appear, suggested that a substantial amount of disordered or dissociated components start appearing before the disappearance of more ordered components. It seemed that they appear as the premelting precursors (or even possibly as the indirect cause) to the precipitous decrease of the ordered components associated with the melting of Nylon 12 occurring at a much higher temperature.
The Authentication of Basmati Rice Using near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Osborne B.G. , Mertens B. , Thompson M. , Fearn T.
Published: May 2009

The feasibility of using near infrared transmission spectroscopy to discriminate between Basmati and other long-grain rice samples was investigated. A discriminant rule was derived using the Fisher linear discriminant function calculated from the first few principal component scores of the NIR spectra. The discriminant rule was assessed by cross-validation. Nine Basmati and 53 other rice samples were classified correctly from NIR spectra measured on 200 g bulk samples but 8% of the Basmatis and 14% of the others were misclassified on the basis of spectra of individual grains. Using average spectra from 23 grains resulted in correct classification of 16 Basmatis but a 20% error rate on 100 other samples.
A Comparison of Calibration Robustness Relating to Different Data Treatments of a Standard Set of Spectra
Authors: Hindle P.H. , Smith C.R.R.
Published: May 2009

Several different data treatments are currently in use for calibrating near infrared instruments of diverse designs. It is practically impossible to assess the relative performances of these methods, for example with a set of standard samples, because of inaccuracies in laboratory estimates of concentrations, sample presentation difficulties and sample stability. This paper presents the first results of calibrations derived from computer synthesised spectra as an attempt to circumvent sample problems.
Quantitative Information in near Infrared Spectra. Part 1. Effects of Smoothing and Combing
Authors: McClure W.F. , Crowell Bennett
Published: May 2009

Most near infrared researchers agree that spectra contain redundant information, especially spectra obtained with scanning instruments. Only a few feel confident about removing information before performing calibrations. In this study, smoothing and combing were used to remove quantitative information from the spectra. Results show that while some smoothing may be needed especially for noisy instruments, excessive smoothing does derate the performance of calibrations. However, it was surprising to find that that information removal by smoothing and combing, even when taken to extremes, does not produce catastrophic results.
The Use of Quadratic Regression in Qualitative near Infrared and Visible Spectroscopic Analysis
Authors: Coene Michel P.D. , Grinter Roger , Davies Anthony M.C.
Published: May 2009

A method of comparing two spectra using linear and quadratic regression is described. For every wavelength, the log(1/ R) value of the first spectrum is used as x, that of the second as y. The correlation coefficient ( r) is used to compute a similarity index which can be used to test for identity. The method has the advantage of comparing whole spectra, rather than only certain peaks, while reducing the data to a single variable. For crystalline solids with different particle sizes, better results are obtained if a quadratic rather than a linear equation is used. This procedure allows the successful identification of isomers and sugars, even when there is considerable variation in particle size.
Application of New Variable Selection Techniques to near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Weyer Lois G. , Brown Steven D.
Published: May 2009

Two non-traditional variable selection techniques, classification and regression trees (CART) and genetic algorithms (GA), were explored for their application to near infrared spectroscopic calibrations. The results were compared to those of multiple linear regression (MLR) and partial least square (PLS) calibrations. Both numerical comparisons and interpretation of the reasons for the wavelength choices of the different techniques were made. A challenging set of mixtures, containing a low level of an alcohol with a spectrum very similar to one of the major components, was used as a test for the various techniques. The genetic algorithm approach succeeded in locating three wavelengths, which together were capable of generating a model which predicted unknown mixtures very well.
The Kubelka–Munk Equation: Some Practical Considerations
Authors: Law Donald P. , Blakeney Anthony B. , Tkachuk Russell
Published: May 2009

Notwithstanding that the Kubelka–Munk function [F( R)] is the theoretically preffered treatment, relative to log 1/ r, for reflectance data, it has found little favour with workers in near infrared (NIR) reflectance. The most often quoted advantage for F( R) is an improvement in linearity with concentration, which occurs when measurements are made over a wide range of reflection and concentration. However, the practice in NIR is to limit the reflectance range by standardising the method of sample preparation. Hence, the linearity of log 1/ r is not an issue. However, is this restriction on sample preparation methodology a result of the use of log 1/ r? This study shows that moisture changes in ground wheat fractions are linear with F( R) and curvilinear with log 1/ r, and demonstrates that a calibration for moisture in wheat based on F( R) and a large reflectance range, can be successfully transferred to an instrument substantially different from that used to develop the calibration.
Near Infrared Spectroscopic Studies of Starch and Water in Some Processed Cereal Foods
Authors: Osborne B.G.
Published: May 2009

Near infrared (NIR) reflectance spectra of wheat flour, dried extrudates and bread crumb over the range 1350–1650 nm exhibit similar features which provide information about the changes in starch structure which take place during their processing or aging. It is postulated that the observed spectral features are related to changes in the states of hydrogen bonding of O–H bonds in starch and water.
Visible and near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy for the Determination of Moisture, Fat and Protein in Chicken Breast and Thigh Muscle
Authors: Cozzolino D. , Murray I. , Paterson R. , Scaife J.R.
Published: May 2009

Near infrared (NIR) reflectance spectroscopy was used to determine the chemical composition of chicken breast and thigh muscles. Samples from twenty-four males and twenty-four females were scanned from 400 to 2500 nm, both as intact muscle and as comminuted (minced) tissue. Modified partial least squares (MPLS) regression on scatter corrected spectra (standard normal variates and Detrend) gave calibration models for chemical variables from NIR measurements on the defrosted minced breast samples having multivariate correlation coefficients and standard errors of calibration of 0.995 (2.4), 0.974 (2.11) and 0.946 (4.55) for moisture, crude protein and fat in g kg −1, respectively.
A Calibration Tutorial for Spectral Data. Part 2. Partial Least Squares Regression Using Matlab and Some Neural Network Results
Authors: Geladi Paul , Martens Harald , Hadjiiski Lubomir , Hopke Philip
Published: May 2009

Part 1 explained multiplicative scatter correction (MSC), the building of a principal component regression (PCR) model and how the test data can be used in prediction. Emphasis was on data pretreatment for linearistion and on spectral/chemical interpretation of the results. Part 2 discusses partial least squares (PLS or PLSR) regression. The data set prepared in Part 1 is also used here. Details on data pretreatment are, therefore, not repeated. Some details of PLS modeling are explained using the calculations of the example. Also, the interpretation of the PLS model gets some attention. Neural network calculation results are included for comparison. Artifical neural networks (ANN) are non-linear, so linearisation is not considered necessary.

Latent variable regression methods such as PLS and PCR and ANNs are all successive approximations to the unknown function y = f(x) that forms the basis of all calibration methods. In latent variable regression, the rank of the model determines the degree of approximation. In ANNs, the number of hidden nodes and the number of iterations determine the degree of approximation.
Applying Artificial Neural Networks: Part II. Using near Infrared Data to Classify Tobacco Types and Identify Native Grown Tobacco
Authors: Hana Maha , McClure W.F. , Whitaker T.B. , White M.W. , Bahler D.R.
Published: May 2009

Classification of flue-cured and Burley tobacco types with artificial neural networks (ANNs) were studied. Burley tobacco was further classified as either grown in the USA or grown outside the USA. The input data were in the form of near infrared (NIR) spectra, each spectrum containing 19 points. The number of flue-cured and Burley samples were 654 and 959, respectively. The number of native and non-native tobacco samples were 266 and 267, respectively. The models selected for this research were a quadratic classifier, a back-propagation network and a linear network. The results of the calibration model and the true performance for classifying tobacco species were (100%, 100%), (99.38%, 99.39%) and (95.19%, 99.26%) for the quadratic classifier, back-propagation network and linear network, respectively. The identification of native tobacco and its true performance were (100%, 100%) using a quadratic classifier, (89.12%, 88.46%) using a back-propagation network and (80.68%, 79.62%) using a linear network.
Two-Photon near Infrared Excitation in Living Cells
Authors: König Karsten
Published: May 2009

Non-linear effects due to two-photon near infrared (NIR) excitation of endogenous and exogenous cellular chromophores allow novel techniques in tissue, cell and biomolecule diagnostics, as well as in intracellular micromanipulation (e.g. intracellular photochemistry). Two-photon NIR excitation may also result in cell damage effects. The high photon intensities (1024 photons cm−2 s−1) required for non-resonant two-photon excitation can be achieved by diffraction-limited focusing of continuous wave (cw) laser beams (cw microbeams) with powers in the mW range. For example, NIR traps (“laser tweezers”) used as force transducers and micromanipulation tools in cellular and molecular biology are sources of two-photon excitation. NIR traps can induce two-photon excited visible fluorescence and, in the case of <800 nm-traps, UVA-like cell damage. Multimode cw microbeams may enhance non-linear effects due to longitudinal mode-beating. To perform high scan rate two-photon fluorescence imaging, the application of ultrashort laser pulses of moderate peak power but low average power (pulsed microbeams) is required. In NIR femtosecond microscopes, non-destructive imaging of two-photon excited fluorophores in various human and culture cells was demonstrated for <2 mW average powers, <200 mW peak powers and 400 GW cm−2 intensities (700–800 nm, ∼150 fs, ∼100 MHz). However, higher average power levels may result in failed cell reproduction and cell death due to intracellular optical breakdown. In addition, destructive transient local heating and μN force generation may occur.
Short-Wave near Infrared Spectra of Liquids in a Waveguide Capillary Sample Cell
Authors: Altkorn Robert
Published: May 2009

A waveguide capillary cell (WCC) based on a small-diameter fused-silica tube coated externally with a low refractive index ( n = 1.31) fluoropolymer is described, and short-wave near infrared (700–1100 nm) spectra of low refractive index ( n = 1.33–1.38) liquids acquired at cell lengths between 4 and 190 cm are presented. It is shown that the WCC offers low baseline attenuation, sample volumes far smaller than those of conventional long pathlength cells and excellent compatibility with fibre optic spectrometers.
Development and Validation of an Analytical Method for Identification of Granulated Nicarbazin by near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy
Authors: Bradfield K.B. , Forbes R.A.
Published: May 2009

A rapid method was developed for verification of the identity of granulated nicarbazin raw material by near infrared reflectance. A library was developed from 30 second derivative near infrared reflectance spectra obtained from 15 representative batches of nicarbazin. Following identification, new batches were qualified by conformance testing according to the wavelength distance method. The identification/qualification method was validated for selectivity and for ruggedness utilising statistically designed experiments.
Legal Realism for Economists
Authors: Stephenson Matthew C
Published: May 2009

Economists have made great progress in understanding the incentives and behavior of actors who operate outside of traditional economic markets, including voters, legislators, and bureaucrats. The incentives and behavior of judges, however, remain largely opaque. Do judges act as neutral third-party enforcers of substantive decisions made by others? Are judges “ordinary” policymakers who advance whatever outcomes they favor without any special consideration for law as such? Emerging recent scholarship has started to explore more nuanced conceptions of how law, facts, and judicial preferences may interact to influence judicial decisions. This work develops a perspective on judging that can usefully be understood as the modern manifestation of American Legal Realism, a jurisprudential movement of lawyers, judges, and law professors that flourished in the early twentieth century. The purpose of this essay is to introduce, in simplified form, the Realist account of judicial decision making; to contrast this view with alternative theories about law and judging; and to sketch out how a more explicit integration of the Realists' conceptual insights about law and judicial behavior might enrich the rapidly expanding economic work in this field.
Market-based Policy Options to Control U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Authors: Metcalf Gilbert E
Published: May 2009

The United States is moving closer to enacting a policy to reduce domestic emissions of greenhouse gases. A key element in any plan to reduce emissions will be to place a price on greenhouse gas emissions. This paper discusses the different approaches that can be taken to price emissions and assesses their strengths and weaknesses.
Characterization of the miRNA-RISC loading complex and miRNA-RISC formed in the Drosophila miRNA pathway
Authors: Miyoshi Keita , Okada Tomoko N. , Siomi Haruhiko , Siomi Mikiko C.
Published: May 2009

In Drosophila, miRNA is processed by Dicer-1 (DCR-1) from its precursor and loaded onto Argonaute1 (AGO1). AGO1 recognizes target mRNAs based on the miRNA sequence and suppresses the expression at post-transcriptional levels. GW182, a P-body component, localizes the AGO1 complex to processing bodies (P-bodies) where mRNA targets are decayed or stored. However, the details of the pathway remain elusive. In this study, two distinct types of AGO1-containing complexes from Drosophila Schneider2 (S2) cells were isolated and compared at the molecular level. The AGO1 complex with DCR-1 contained neither mature miRNA nor GW182 but exhibited pre-miRNA processing activity. The resultant mature RNA was loaded onto AGO1 within the complex. The AGO1 complex with GW182 excluded DCR-1, but possessed mature miRNA and showed no pre-miRNA processing activity. Thus, the AGO1-DCR-1 and AGO1-GW182 complexes correspond to miRLC (miRISC loading complex) and miRISC, respectively. The requirement for various domains of AGO1 in miRNA-loading and DCR-1/GW182 interaction was also examined. The Mid domain mutant (F2V2) interacted with DCR-1 but not with mature miRNA and GW182. The AGO1-PAZ mutant lacks the mature miRNA-binding ability but associates with either DCR-1 or GW182. The AGO1-PIWI mutant showed no Slicer activity but associates with mature miRNA. These results indicate that these domains are required differently for miRLC and miRISC formation in the miRNA pathway.
Vulnerabilities to deliberate self‐harm among adolescents: The role of alexithymia and victimization
Authors: Garisch Jessica Anne , Wilson Marc Stewart
Published: May 2009

Objectives. This study investigates vulnerabilities to deliberate self‐harm (DSH) among adolescents, specifically focusing on peer victimisation and alexithymia.

Design. Correlational survey design.

Methods. Three hundred and twenty‐five secondary school students completed self‐report questionnaires asking their history of DSH and bullying, and scales assessing alexithymia and depression.

Results. Self‐harming adolescents reported more victimization and alexithymic symptomology than participants who had never engaged in DSH. Alexithymia moderated, and partially mediated, the relationship between bullying and DSH. Bullying and DSH significantly co‐varied when participants' alexithymia was moderate or high, but not when participants' alexithymia was low. The relationship between alexithymia and DSH was fully mediated by depression. The relationship between bullying and DSH was also moderated by depression. Depression moderated the relationship between alexithymia and DSH.

Conclusions. The findings suggest stressors in the social environment (e.g. bullying) are more likely to facilitate DSH when an adolescent has poor emotion regulation and communication skills and when an individual is experiencing mood difficulties.
Skeletal Benefits After Long-Term Retirement in Former Elite Female Gymnasts
Authors: Eser Prisca , Hill Briony , Ducher Gaele , Bass Shona
Published: May 2009

Bone strength benefits after long-term retirement from elite gymnastics in terms of bone geometry and volumetric BMD were studied by comparing retired female gymnasts to moderately active age-matched women. In a cross-sectional study, 30 retired female gymnasts were compared with 30 age-matched moderately active controls. Bone geometric and densitometric parameters were measured by pQCT at the distal epiphyses and shafts of the tibia, femur, radius, and humerus. Muscle cross-sectional areas were assessed from the shaft scans. Independent t-tests were conducted on bone and muscle variables to detect differences between the two groups. The gymnasts had retired for a mean of 6.1 ± 0.4 yr and were engaged in ≤2 h of exercise per week since retirement. At the radial and humeral shafts, cortical cross-sectional area (CSA), total CSA, BMC, and strength strain index (SSIpol) were significantly greater (13–38%, p ≤ 0.01) in the retired gymnasts; likewise, BMC and total CSA were significantly greater at the distal radius (22–25%, p ≤ 0.0001). In the lower limbs, total CSA and BMC at the femur and tibia shaft were greater by 8–11%, and trabecular BMD and BMC were only greater at the tibia (7–8%). Muscle CSA at the forearm and upper arm was greater by 15–17.6% (p ≤ 0.001) but was not different at the upper and lower leg. Past gymnastics training is associated with greater bone mass and bone size in women 6 yr after retirement. Skeletal benefits were site specific, with greater geometric adaptations (greater bone size) in the upper compared with the lower limbs.
Correlates of Trabecular and Cortical Volumetric BMD in Men of African Ancestry
Authors: Sheu Yahtyng , Cauley Jane A , Bunker Clareann H , Wheeler Victor W , Patrick Alan L , Gordon Christopher L , Kammerer Candace M , Zmuda Joseph M
Published: May 2009

QCT provides a measure of volumetric BMD (vBMD) and distinguishes trabecular from cortical bone. Few studies have determined the factors related to vBMD in men, especially among men of African heritage. This study evaluated the relationship of anthropometric, medical, and behavioral factors and vBMD in a population-based cohort of men of African ancestry (n = 1901) ≥40 yr of age who had undergone screening for prostate cancer for the first time. Trabecular and cortical vBMD were measured at the radius and tibia by pQCT. Multiple linear regression analysis identified age, height, body weight, cigarette smoking, history of diabetes, fracture, and prostate cancer as the independent correlates of vBMD. However, associations with several variables differed between cortical and trabecular vBMD and between the radius and tibia. Longitudinal studies are needed to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying these differential associations that may show new insight into the etiology of trabecular and cortical bone loss in men.
Interindividual Variation in Functionally Adapted Trait Sets Is Established During Postnatal Growth and Predictable Based on Bone Robustness
Authors: Pandey Nirnimesh , Bhola Siddharth , Goldstone Andrew , Chen Fred , Chrzanowski Jessica , Terranova Carl J , Ghillani Richard , Jepsen Karl J
Published: May 2009

Adults acquire unique sets of morphological and tissue-quality bone traits that are predictable based on robustness and deterministic of strength and fragility. How and when individual trait sets arise during growth has not been established. Longitudinal structural changes of the metacarpal diaphysis were measured for boys and girls from 3 mo to 8 yr of age using hand radiographs obtained from the Bolton-Brush collection. Robustness varied ∼2-fold among boys and girls, and individual values were established by 2 yr of age, indicating that genetic and environmental factors controlling the relationship between growth in width and growth in length were established early during postnatal growth. Significant negative correlations between robustness and relative cortical area and a significant positive correlation between robustness and a novel measure capturing the efficiency of growth indicated that coordination of the subperiosteal and endocortical surfaces was responsible for this population acquiring a narrow range of trait sets that was predictable based on robustness. Boys and girls with robust diaphyses had proportionally thinner cortices to minimize mass, whereas children with slender diaphyses had proportionally thicker cortices to maximize stiffness. Girls had more slender metacarpals with proportionally thicker cortices compared with boys at all prepubertal ages. Although postnatal growth patterns varied in fundamentally different ways with sex and robustness, the dependence of trait sets on robustness indicated that children sustained variants affecting subperiosteal growth because they shared a common biological factor regulating functional adaptation. Considering the natural variation in acquired trait sets may help identify determinants of fracture risk, because age-related bone loss and gain will affect slender and robust structures differently.
Biochemical Markers of Bone Turnover, Hip Bone Loss, and Fracture in Older Men: The MrOS Study
Authors: Bauer Douglas C , Garnero Patrick , Harrison Stephanie L , Cauley Jane A , Eastell Richard , Ensrud Kris E , Orwoll Eric
Published: May 2009

We used data from the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) study to test the hypothesis that men with higher levels of bone turnover would have accelerated bone loss and an elevated risk of fracture. MrOS enrolled 5995 subjects >65 yr; hip BMD was measured at baseline and after a mean follow-up of 4.6 yr. Nonspine fractures were documented during a mean follow-up of 5.0 yr. Using fasting serum collected at baseline and stored at −190°C, bone turnover measurements (type I collagen N-propeptide [PINP]; β C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen [βCTX]; and TRACP5b) were obtained on 384 men with nonspine fracture (including 72 hip fractures) and 947 men selected at random. Among randomly selected men, total hip bone loss was 0.5%/yr among those in the highest quartile of PINP (>44.3 ng/ml) and 0.3%/yr among those in the lower three quartiles (p = 0.01). Fracture risk was elevated among men in the highest quartile of PINP (hip fracture relative hazard = 2.13; 95% CI: 1.23, 3.68; nonspine relative hazard = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.21, 2.05) or βCTX (hip fracture relative hazard = 1.76, 95 CI: 1.04, 2.98; nonspine relative hazard = 1.29, 95% CI: 0.99, 1.69) but not TRACP5b. Further adjustment for baseline hip BMD eliminated all associations between bone turnover and fracture. We conclude that higher levels of bone turnover are associated with greater hip bone loss in older men, but increased turnover is not independently associated with the risk of hip or nonspine fracture.
Differences in Macro- and Microarchitecture of the Appendicular Skeleton in Young Chinese and White Women
Authors: Wang Xiao-Fang , Wang Qingju , Ghasem-Zadeh Ali , Evans Alison , McLeod Catherine , Iuliano-Burns Sandra , Seeman Ego
Published: May 2009

To identify the racial differences in macro- and microstructure of the distal radius and tibia that may account for the lower fracture rates in Asians than whites, we studied 61 healthy premenopausal Chinese and 111 white women 18–45 yr of age using high-resolution pQCT (HR-pQCT). The Chinese were shorter and leaner. Distal radius total cross-sectional area (CSA) was 14.3% smaller in Chinese because of an 18.0% smaller trabecular area (p < 0.001). Cortical thickness was 8.8% greater in the Chinese, but cortical area was no different. Total volumetric BMD (vBMD) was 10.3% higher in the Chinese because of the 8.8% higher cortical thickness and 2.8% greater cortical density (all p < 0.01). Trabecular vBMD and bone volume/tissue volume (BV/TV) did not differ by race because trabeculae were 7.0% fewer but 10.8% thicker in Chinese than whites (both p < 0.01). Similar results were found at the distal tibia. Lower fracture risk in Chinese women may be partly caused by thicker cortices and trabeculae in a smaller bone-more bone within the bone than in whites.
The Metrological Basis and Operation of Nanopositioning and Nanomeasuring Machine NMM-1Metrologische Grundlagen und Wirkungsweise der Nanopositionier- und Messmaschine NMM-1
Authors: Jäger Gerd , Manske Eberhard , Hausotte Tino , Büchner H.-J.
Published: May 2009

After an explanation of the set-up of a nanomeasuring machine NMM-1, its high performance is described with a metrological analysis. This analysis shows some of today´s limits of nanopositioning and nanomeasuring engineering. Single, double and triple beam plane mirror interferometers are applied in the nanomeasuring machine in order to measure and control the six degrees of freedom of the 3D nanopositioning stage. The various applications of the nanomeasuring machine are based on the installation of optical and tactile nanoprobes above the 3D nanopositioning stage. The set-up, function and measurement results of some zero-point nanoprobes in combination with the nanomeasuring machine are explained.
Developments in Homodyne InterferometryFortschritte in der Homodyn-Interferometrie
Authors: Schott Walter , Dontsov Denys , Pöschel Wolfgang
Published: May 2009

The trend in many fields of enabling technologies, such as microelectronics, communications, microsystems, and micromechanics, toward imposing increasingly stringent demands upon precision continues. Those types of technologies allow creating micromechanical components having dimensions of a few micrometers that have to be accurately measured, positioned relative to one another, and assembled. In that conjunction, laser-interferometric metrology provides unique opportunities that combine measurements over large ranges at extraordinarily fine resolutions with traceability of measurement results to international length standards. Laser-interferometric metrological systems may be used for measuring displacements ranging from subnanometers to several meters, without need for reconfiguring the optical or electronic systems involved or their component devices.
Navigation in a Large Measurement Volume by Using AFM Technology as a Sensor System in the NPMMNavigation in einem großen Messvolumen in der Nanopositionier- und Mess-Maschine (NPMM) mittels AFM-Technologie
Authors: Machleidt Torsten , Sparrer Erik , Dorozhovets Nataliya , Manske Eberhard , Franke Karl-Heinz , Kapusi Daniel
Published: May 2009

This article discusses methods to measure samples up to 25×25 mm2 using the NPMM [1] as an atomic force microscope (AFM) [2]. An entire scan at full resolution (10 nm) and 10 μm/s scan speed would take about 200 years. Therefore, overview scans with the AFM can be done to reduce the scan time, but these scans can induce aliasing artifacts due to sub-sampling. This paper gives a solution to that problem. The AFM camera is used for approximate orientation in the scan field. From an automatic optical area scan stitching software creates an overview image of about 2.6 GPixel with 0.5 μm resolution. The GEOtiff standard [3] is introduced to enable orientation in such big images. This format includes positioning information in the image and is used to solve the nano-orientation problem. This article further presents routines to create an overview image and a segmentation routine to detect structure domains. Since a combination of an AFM and optical scanning leads to higher positioning performance, both measurements are merged.
OD approach to polytypism: examples, problems, indications
Authors: Merlino Stefano
Published: May 2009

The relationships between polytypism and OD structures are discussed, with presentation of some examples in different classes of compounds: polymorphism and polytypism in 9,10 phenantrenequinone; OD structures in latiumite and tuscanite family; polytypism in kaolinite family.

The basic elements of OD theory are given, both for structures consisting of OD layers all of the same kind and for structures consisting of two or more distinct kinds of OD layers, and the advantages of an OD approach to polytypism, together with its limitations, are presented and discussed.
Layer charge and heavy metals structures in hydrated 2 : 1 silicates: state of the art and new advances on cadmium
Authors: Malferrari Daniele , Brigatti Maria Franca , Elmi Chiara , Laurora Angela , Valdrè Giovanni
Published: May 2009

This study will discuss how layer charge can affect chemical speciation and topology of heavy metals adsorbed to 2 : 1 layer silicates, by providing: i) an overview of literature data; ii) experimental data on Cd complexes adsorbed by 2 : 1 layer silicates with different layer charge (montmorillonite and vermiculite); iii) a comparison between our results and literature data. This study will also be supported by several different experimental techniques such as chemical and thermal analyses, X-ray powder diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy.

Based on our data Cd atoms were found to complex water molecules in both clay minerals and to show four-fold coordination in montmorillonite (Cd–O distances of 2.24 Å) and six-fold coordination in vermiculite (Cd–O distances of 2.16 and 2.28 Å). Furthermore our models clearly suggest that Cd mainly bonds to interlayer water, without neglecting the more limited, but still significant, Cd multinuclear surface complexes at the octahedral broken edges. Both clay minerals show H2O/Cd ratio, as evidenced by thermal analyses, drastically higher than expected from X-ray adsorption spectroscopy data, thus implying that most of the water molecules are only loosely coordinated to interlayer cations.
Ab initio modeling of layered materials with the CRYSTAL code: an overview
Authors: Civalleri Bartolomeo , Ugliengo Piero , Zicovich-Wilson Claudio M. , Dovesi Roberto
Published: May 2009

Ab initio simulations play an increasingly relevant role in the study of layered materials. Here we give an overview of the capabilities of modeling tools as applied to the characterization of simple layered hydroxides (e.g. alkali metal and aluminum hydroxides) and clays (e.g. kaolinite and lizardite). In particular, applications of the CRYSTAL code, in the study of such systems, are discussed.
Recent progress in the synthesis and application of organically modified hydrotalcites
Authors: Costantino Umberto , Nocchetti Morena , Sisani Michele , Vivani Riccardo
Published: May 2009

This review is focused on the preparation and potential applications of hydrotalcite like compounds organically modified by ion-exchange procedure and the data reviewed have been supplemented with unpublished results. It is divided in two Parts. Part I deals with intercalation of biologically active species such as amino-acids, anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drugs, UV-absorbers to produce nano-hybrids with versatile application as biomolecule reservoir and in the pharmaceutical and personal care fields. Part II deals with the intercalation of several anions with either hydrophobic or hydrophilic properties in order to make the inorganic sheets compatible with different polymers. Moreover, if the guest is an active molecular anion such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, antibiotic or anti-inflammatory, the polymer can acquire the peculiar properties of the guest opening novel interesting application fields.
Temperature dependant X-ray diffraction study of PrSr3Co1.5Fe1.5O10–d
; n = 3 Ruddlesden-Popper phase
Authors: Jantsky Laurent , Norby Poul , Rosseinsky Matthew J. , Fjellvåg Helmer
Published: May 2009

The thermal evolution of the crystal structure of PrSr3Co1.5Fe1.5O10–d
, a member of the n = 3 family of Ruddlesden-Popper compounds, has been studied by means of variable temperature synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction combined with room temperature neutron diffraction studies. This structure takes the ideal tetragonal I4/mmm (n°139) space group. The possibility of symmetry lowering to the Pbca (n°61) space group by slight tilting and rotation of the oxygen atoms around the octahedral B site is discussed. The non linear thermal expansion of the compound in air is caused by a chemical expansion accompanying the loss of oxygen that comes in addition to normal thermal expansion. A mechanism describing the creation of oxygen vacancies is proposed.
Effects of oral and transdermal estrogen therapies on circulating cytokines and chemokines in postmenopausal women with hysterectomy
Authors: Yasui Toshiyuki , Saijo Ayako , Uemura Hirokazu , Matsuzaki Toshiya , Tsuchiya Naoko , Yuzurihara Mitsutoshi , Kase Yoshio , Irahara Minoru
Published: May 2009

Objective

The aim of the present study was to determine the different effects of oral estrogen therapy (ET) and transdermal ET on changes in circulating levels of cytokines and chemokines in relationship to changes in markers of inflammation in postmenopausal women with hysterectomy.

Methods

Fifty-five postmenopausal women with hysterectomy were randomly assigned in open, parallel-group fashion to an oral ET group and a transdermal ET group. Serum levels of cytokines and chemokines were simultaneously measured using a multiplexed human cytokine assay. Serum concentrations of high-sensitive C-reactive protein, soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and E-selectin were measured as vascular inflammation markers.

Results

Both oral ET and transdermal ET significantly decreased serum interleukin (IL)-7 concentrations at 12 months (P=0.020 and P=0.015 respectively). Transdermal ET decreased serum concentrations of IL-8, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, and macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1β (P=0.05, P=0.019, and P=0.029), but oral ET increased IL-8 level (P=0.025). There were significant differences in percentage changes in IL-8 and MIP-1β between the oral and transdermal ET groups. Oral ET significantly decreased E-selectin level after 12 months.

Conclusion

Transdermal ET reduces circulating levels of IL-8, MCP-1, and MIP-1β, while both oral ET and transdermal ET reduce circulating level of IL-7.
Coexistence of normotensive primary aldosteronism in two patients with Gitelman's syndrome and novel thiazide-sensitive Na–Cl cotransporter mutations
Authors: Miao Zhimin , Gao Yufang , Bindels René J M , Yu Wendong , Lang Yanhua , Chen Nan , Ren Hong , Sun Fang , Li Yushan , Wang Xianghua , Shao Leping
Published: May 2009

Background

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is the most common form of secondary hypertension, while Gitelman's syndrome (GS) is the most common inherited renal tubular disease. However, coexistence of these two diseases has never been previously reported.

Aim and subjects

The aim of our study was to describe the association of GS and PA in two unrelated patients and compare their clinical presentation with a group of patients with GS.

Methods

Ten subjects suspected to have only GS were assigned to the control group. Saline infusion test was used to confirm the diagnosis of PA. GS was confirmed by sequencing of the causal genes (SLC12A3 and CLCNKB) and functional analyses in Xenopus laevis oocytes.

Results

Confirmatory tests, gene analysis, and functional studies demonstrated the coexistence of GS and PA in both patients. In total, nine novel SLC12A3 gene variants, including seven missense mutations, one splice mutation, and one frameshift deletion, were found in 12 subjects. Four mutations (p.T60M, p.T304M, p.T465P, and p.N611T) harbored by the two patients with both PA and GS were revealed to be loss-of-function variants. Although both patients were normotensive, neither of them had normal nocturnal dip.

Conclusions

Two rare diseases GS and PA may occasionally coexist in one subject. In these patients, salt depletion and volume constriction might explain the absence of hypertension normally seen in PA patients. However, the protective mechanism against hypertension via down-regulation of renal sodium handling was probably not sufficient in those patients, since their normal circadian rhythm of blood pressure was disrupted.
The effects of tamoxifen and estradiol on myometrial differentiation and organization during early uterine development in the CD1 mouse
Authors: Mehasseb Mohamed K , Bell S C , Habiba M A
Published: May 2009

We used a neonatal mouse model to examine the histogenesis of uterine adenomyosis, and to test whether adenomyosis is due to an abnormality in myometrial differentiation, or in extracellular matrix proteins expression. We also studied the effects of tamoxifen and estradiol on uterine development, myometrial differentiation, and organization. Female CD1 pups were treated with oral tamoxifen (1 mg/kg) (n=27) or estradiol (0.1 mg/kg) (n=24) from age 1 to 5 days. Uteri from control (n=27) and treated mice were obtained on days 2, 5, 10, 15, and 42 of age. We examined the sections histologically, using image analysis and immunohistochemistry for α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), desmin, vimentin, laminin, fibronectin, and estrogen receptor-α. Following tamoxifen exposure, all uteri showed adenomyosis by 6 weeks of age (seen as early as day 10). The inner myometrium showed thinning, lack of continuity, disorganization, and bundling. α-SMA expression was normal. Desmin expression normally showed a wave of maturation that was absent in tamoxifen-treated mice. In the estradiol group, adenomyosis was not observed. All uterine layers were normally developed, but hypertrophied. The inner myometrium retained its circular arrangement. There was no difference in the localization of laminin or fibronectin between groups (laminin expression was reduced in the tamoxifen treated uteri). Vimentin could not be detected in all groups. Our results suggest that the development of the inner myometrium is particularly sensitive to estrogen antagonism, and can be affected by steroid receptors modulation. Disruption of the inner myometrium may play a role in the development of uterine adenomyosis.
Field Experience With LACT Units Equipped With P.D. Meters
Authors: Hockaday D.E. , Simpson W.J.
Published: May 2009

Lease automatic custody transfer (LACT) can be accomplished by the use of positive displacement meters and standard open-type prover systems to the satisfaction of producer, pipeline and regulatory bodies. Over 2,500,000 bbl of oil have been sold by this method.

Meter factor vs cumulative meter registration graphs should be used to check meter performance, wear rate and proper proving interval.

A check meter in series with the sales meter is recommended as an aid to elimination of major errors in the measurement.

Large errors can occur on some oils if group temperature compensators and ASTM, Table 7, are used when ruling oil at high temperature.

Samplers are reliable as far as BS and W determination is concerned but may not adequately represent the true API gravity if the sample is stored for extended periods of time.

In one field operation, P D meter LACT has enabled the operator to gain an additional $100 per day by improving oil characteristics.

Introduction

During the last few years, the oil production departments of various oil companies have devised and built a number of installations to sell oil to pipeline companies by various metering devices. The advantages of the devices or LACT units, as they have been termed, have been pointed out by previous observers.

The strong trend toward unitization of several leases into operating entities as well as rapidly increasing steel and labor costs have contributed to the rapid acceptance of the LACT method.

While the producing companies pioneered the development of most LACT units, the various pipeline companies have given valuable assistance. At the present stage of development, LACT unit designs are beginning to crystalize and a number of manufacturers are now marketing complete systems. During the research and development phase, the economic advantages of LACT were not always evident to the producer or the pipeline; however, currently it is apparent that both parties are benefiting. For example, my company is now operating five LACT units which are handling 10,000 BOPD or over 30 per cent of our daily crude runs. Approximately fifty tank batteries have been salvaged out.
Geologic Aspects of Fractured Reservoirs
Authors: Badgley Peter C. , Pentilla William C. , Trimble James K.
Published: May 2009

Previous geological publication on this subject has been mainly concerned with a description of the subsurface geology and productivity of known fractured reservoir oil fields. Following a review of theoretical and laboratory ideas on fracturing, the current paper discusses methods of discovering new fractured reservoir fields, mainly by intense surface geological study. The discussion concentrates on fracture patterns, intensities, persistence, timing and origin, in relationship to petroleum generation, migration and accumulation. The relationship of local fracture patterns to regional tectonic setting is discussed for numerous areas.

Introduction

Many geologists and engineers agree that fractured reservoirs represent a major unexploited source of new oil. This is because fractures systems are prevalent in every petroleum basin. However it was not until the past decade that reservoir fracturing received much attention through the discussions of Levorsen et al., Hubbert and Willis, and Speer. These authors were concerned mainly with the recognition and description of existing fractured reservoir oilfields. Speer pointed out the need for classification and study of such fields and attempted to classify them in terms of structural versus stratigraphic control and in terms of mode of origin. Be concluded that classification was very difficult as most fields have both structural and stratigraphic controls. The present authors agree that classification based upon structural versus stratigraphic control is indeed difficult as both factors are usually important. A classification based upon time of origin appears to be feasible and useful in terms of new exploration for fractured reservoirs, but this new approach is based upon intensive surface geological study in addition to the subsurface study which has characterized most earlier studies. This matter will be discussed more fully later.
On the Fingering of Slow Immiscible, Viscous Liquid-Liquid Displacements
Authors: Sheldon J.W.
Published: May 2009

Introduction

We assume that an Interface between two immiscible, viscous fluids of unequal mobility flowing between glass plates is fingering in the manner observed experimentally by Chuoke, van blurs and van der Poel. Chuoke, et al, analyzed this fingering effect by means of small-amplitude perturbation theory. The small-amplitude perturbation theory enables one to determine the rate of growth of small-amplitude sinusoidal fingers of any wave length. The wavelength, , with maximum rate of growth can be determined and is conjectured to be the most probable wave length to be observed in an actual physical system with fingers of large amplitude. Reasonable agreement between this conjecture and experimental observations is obtained by Chuoke, et al.

The small-amplitude perturbation theory essentially exhausts itself at this stage. It cannot be used to predict the rate of growth or the shapes of large-amplitude fingers.

In the present paper, we develop a different approximate theory for the growth of fingers. The approximations involved are similar to those used in first-order shallow-water theory for water waves. This approach enables us to determine the transient behavior of large amplitude fingers. Unfortunately, the approximations which we must make for mathematical expediency are not valid approximations everywhere along the fingering surface, and so the results we obtain are not quantitative. (The same is true in shallow-water theory when this theory is applied to the breaks of waves on a beach. However, this does not prevent people from applying the theory anyway because it is so difficult to get results by other, more accurate methods.)It is of interest that the finger shapes that we determine here do have some of the features observable in the experiments of Chuoke, et al.