bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sinusoidal modeling applied to spatially variant tropospheric ozone air pollution
Authors: Muller Nicholas Z. , Phillips Peter C. B.
Published: December 2007

This paper demonstrates how parsimonious models of sinusoidal functions can be used to fit spatially variant time series in which there is considerable variation of a periodic type. A typical shortcoming of such tools relates to the difficulty in capturing idiosyncratic variation in periodic models. The strategy developed here addresses this deficiency. While previous work has sought to overcome the shortcoming by augmenting sinusoids with other techniques, the present approach employs station‐specific sinusoids to supplement a common regional component, which succeeds in capturing local idiosyncratic behavior in a parsimonious manner. The experiments conducted herein reveal that a semi‐parametric approach enables such models to fit spatially varying time series with periodic behavior in a remarkably tight fashion. The methods are applied to a panel data set consisting of hourly air pollution measurements. The augmented sinusoidal models produce an excellent fit to these data at three different levels of spatial detail. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Personality disorders in 545 patients with eating disorders
Authors: Godt Kristine
Published: December 2007

Objective

Previous research on the prevalence of personality disorders in patients with eating disorders varies greatly in findings, but a general understanding seem to exist that personality disorders are rather common among eating‐disordered patients. The present investigation is aimed at establishing the prevalence of DSM III‐R or DSM IV personality disorders in a large population seeking treatment for eating disorders.

Method

Five hundred and forty‐five patients with DSM IV‐ eating disorders have been evaluated using the structured clinical interview for DSM III‐R or IV‐Axis II and the eating disorder examination.

Results

The 29.5% of the population have one or more personality disorders according to DSM III‐R or DSM IV criteria. Personality disorders, and specifically borderline personality disorder, are significantly more common in patients with bulimia nervosa.

Discussion

The proportion of eating‐disordered patients with co‐morbid personality disorder may not be as large as often found in studies. This challenges the understanding of a strong overall connection between the two groups of disorder; however, the connection seems to exist in subsets of eating disorder samples. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Tafoni development in a cryotic environment: an example from Northern Victoria Land, Antarctica
Authors: Strini Andrea , Guglielmin Mauro , Hall Kevin
Published: December 2007

Tafoni are a type of cavernous weathering widespread around the world. Despite the extensive distribution of the tafoni, their genesis is not clear and is still a matter of debate, also because they occur in such different climatic conditions and on so many different types of substrate. Geomorphological characterization of more than 60 tafoni in three different Antarctic sites (two coastal and one inland) between 74 and 76° S with sampling of weathering products and salt occurrences are described together with thermal data (on different surfaces) and wind speed recorded in different periods of the year in a selected tafone close to the Italian Antarctic station. The aim of this present study is to provide further information to help understand the processes involved in the growth of tafoni in a cryotic environment, and the relationship of these processes to climate, with particular attention to the thermal regime and the role of wind. The new data presented in this paper suggest that there is no single key factor that drives the tafoni development, although thermal stress seems the most efficient process, particularly if we consider the short‐term fluctuations. The data also confirm that other thermal processes, such as freezing–thawing cycles and thermal shock, are not really effective for the development of tafoni in this area. The wind speed measured within the tafoni is half that recorded outside, thus favouring snow accumulation within the tafoni and therefore promoting salt crystallization. On the other hand, the wind effect on the thermal regime within the tafoni seems negligible. While both salt weathering and thermal stress appear active in this cryotic environment, these are azonal processes and are therefore active in other climatic areas where tafoni are widespread (such as the Mediterranean region). Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Explicit solution to the exact Riemann problem and application in nonlinear shallow‐water equations
Authors: Wu Yongyan , Cheung Kwok Fai
Published: December 2007

The Riemann solver is the fundamental building block in the Godunov‐type formulation of many nonlinear fluid‐flow problems involving discontinuities. While existing solvers are obtained either iteratively or through approximations of the Riemann problem, this paper reports an explicit analytical solution to the exact Riemann problem. The present approach uses the homotopy analysis method to solve the nonlinear algebraic equations resulting from the Riemann problem. A deformation equation defines a continuous variation from an initial approximation to the exact solution through an embedding parameter. A Taylor series expansion of the exact solution about the embedding parameter provides a series solution in recursive form with the initial approximation as the zeroth‐order term. For the nonlinear shallow‐water equations, a sensitivity analysis shows fast convergence of the series solution and the first three terms provide highly accurate results. The proposed Riemann solver is implemented in an existing finite‐volume model with a Godunov‐type scheme. The model correctly describes the formation of shocks and rarefaction fans for both one and two‐dimensional dam‐break problems, thereby verifying the proposed Riemann solver for general implementation. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immunochemical and single molecule force spectroscopy studies of specific interaction between the laminin binding protein and the West Nile virus surface glycoprotein E domain II
Authors: Bogachek Maria V. , Protopopova Elena V. , Loktev Valery B. , Zaitsev Boris N. , Favre Mélanie , Sekatskii Sergey K. , Dietler Giovanni
Published: December 2007

ELISA and Western blot immunochemical data attest an effective and highly specific interaction of the surface glycoprotein E domain II (DII) of the tick born encephalitis and Dengue viruses with the laminin binding protein (LBP). Based on a highly conservative structure of the DII in different flaviviruses we propose a similarly effective interaction between the LBP and the DII of the surface glycoprotein E of the West Nile virus. We report the results of studies of this interaction by immunochemical and single molecule force spectroscopy methods. The specific binding between these species is confirmed by both methods. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
By‐products from viticulture and the wine industry: potential as sources of nutrients for ruminants
Authors: Molina‐Alcaide Eduarda , Moumen Abdelmajid , Martín‐García A Ignacio
Published: December 2007

BACKGROUND: This work aimed to study the chemical composition, in vitro digestibility, ruminal degradability and intestinal digestibility of nutrients of vine shoot (VS), grape marcs (GMG and GMM), white (WL), red (RL) and sherry (SL) wine lees and grape marc plus lees (GML). The effect of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on nutrient availability was also studied.

RESULTS: By‐products had variable crude protein (CP) and cell walls (from 44.8 to 203 and from 122 to 741 g kg−1 dry matter (DM) for CP and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) respectively). DM and CP in vitro digestibility ranged from 0.30 to 0.91 and from 0.51 to 0.84 respectively. The effective ruminal degradability of DM and CP was low (from 0.27 to 0.36 and from 0.34 to 0.53, respectively). The intestinal digestibility of the ruminally undegraded fraction was 0.25 and 0.29 for VS and GMG, respectively. The effect of PEG was different in VS and GMG.

CONCLUSION: This is the first information available on ruminal and intestinal availability of nutrients from a diversity of vine and winery by‐products. The use of a combination of the different by‐products studied may represent a valuable source of energy and protein for ruminants. Further research on the effect of diets including these by‐products on animal performance and the quality of products is necessary. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Autoantibody‐mediated bowel and bladder dysfunction in a patient with chronic, nondiabetic neuropathy
Authors: Jackson Michael W. , Gordon Thomas P. , McCombe Pamela A.
Published: December 2007

Physiological techniques can be used to detect novel autoantibodies causing alteration of autonomic function after passive transfer to mice. Previously, such antibodies have been detected in patients with type I diabetes mellitus, myasthenia gravis, and Sjogren's syndrome. We now describe a patient with an idiopathic nondiabetic neuropathy with prominent autonomic symptoms, including bladder and bowel dysfunction. Physiological assays of whole colon and bladder were used to determine the presence in the patient serum of functional autoantibodies capable of mediating autonomic dysfunction. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) from this patient was able to disrupt bladder and bowel function on passive transfer to mice. This is a new pattern of autoantibody‐mediated abnormality. Although the target antigen is unknown, it is likely to be a cell‐surface receptor or ion channel. This case highlights the usefulness of passive transfer studies in detecting functional antibodies in patients with autonomic neuropathy. Muscle Nerve, 2007
Twins discordant for fetal skeletal abnormalities: a natural confrontation between the two siblings
Authors: Quarello E. , Roume J. , Molho M. , Gorincour G. , Saada J. , Simon I. , Bernard J.‐P. , Ville Y.
Published: December 2007

Background

Skeletal abnormalities encompass a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by anomalies of cartilage as well as bone growth and development. Some are lethal and express early during fetal life, making them amenable to prenatal diagnosis. The increasing use of routine ultrasonography (US) during pregnancy permits a reliable primary evaluation of the fetal skeleton. However, when a skeletal dysplasia is suspected, it is more difficult to establish a specific diagnosis. Moreover, detailed ultrasonographic evaluation of the whole fetal skeleton may be limited in some circumstances, especially during the third trimester due to the fetal position and in the case of multiple pregnancies.

Methods

Retrospective study of twin pregnancies complicated with skeletal abnormalities.

Results

6 twin pregnancies were reviewed. The prenatal diagnosis was correctly made in 66.66% (4/6) with the primary use of combined 2D and 3D‐US. 3D‐HCT permits to improve the simultaneous assessment of both fetuses, and is of greater value than US in 16.66% (1/6).

Conclusion

The combined use of 2D or 3D‐US with 3D‐HCT permits the best imaging evaluation. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
School‐based tertiary and targeted interventions for students with chronic medical conditions: Examples from type 1 diabetes mellitus and epilepsy
Authors: Wodrich David L. , Cunningham Melissa M.
Published: December 2007

Approximately 15% of children experience a significant illness prior to age 18 years. For many of them, school absenteeism, substandard academic performance, and social problems ensue. When disorders affect the central nervous system, some suffer global developmental delays or selective neuropsychological deficits. As health service providers, school psychologists understand both the educational process and the ways in which childhood illnesses can impact it. This article argues that school psychologists' breadth of knowledge enables consultation with teachers about health‐related classroom accommodations and communication between medical professionals and educators. Epilepsy and type 1 diabetes mellitus are two conditions associated with a risk of school problems. Using these two disorders as examples, this article outlines roles for school psychologists and provides specific guidance about how they can promote success among all students with chronic illnesses. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification of a novel human MT5‐MMP transcript variant in multipotent NT2 cells
Authors: Ross Heather H. , Fillmore Helen L.
Published: December 2007

Membrane‐type 5 matrix metalloproteinase (MT5‐MMP) expression is ubiquitous in brain development while restricted to regions of neuroplasticity in adult. In the multipotent NT2 model of neurogenesis and differentiation, MT5‐MMP is differentially expressed with significantly higher mRNA levels in the differentiated neuronal hNT cells. MT5‐MMP cDNA cloned from NT2 cells unexpectedly revealed a novel sequence (MT5‐MMPvar) characterized by a 162 bp deletion. Both transcripts were identified in NT2, hNT and adult human hippocampus. In vitro, MT5‐MMPvar translated into a ∼55 kDa protein. It was also detected in NT2, hNT and adult human hippocampus. These results suggest more than one human MT5‐MMP transcript may exist in the central nervous system.
High-Throughput Automated Microscopy Platform for the Allen Brain Atlas
Authors: Slaughterbeck Clifford Ross , Datta Suvro , Smith Simon , Ritchie Dan , Wohnoutka Paul
Published: December 2007

The Allen Brain Atlas (ABA) is a genomic scale, web-based 3D atlas of expression of more than 20,000 genes in the mouse brain visualized using colorimetric in situ hybridization. Completing the ABA required imaging more than 1 million individual brain sections at cellular resolution. To facilitate these imaging needs, a high throughput, fully scalable, automated microscopy platform capable of imaging more than 3000 brain sections daily was developed. This system runs 24 h per day and 7 days per week with minimal operator supervision. The platform comprises a barcode scanner, fully automated microscope, stage, slide loader, digital camera, and custom software for managing the microscopy process. When operating at full capacity, the imaging system generates approximately one terabyte of uncompressed image data daily. Image data from the platform are freely available as part of the ABA online.
Optimized Configuration of Fixed-Tip Robotic Liquid-Handling Stations for the Elimination of Biological Sample Cross-Contamination
Authors: Frégeau Chantal J. , Yensen Craig , Elliott Jim , Fourney Ron M.
Published: December 2007

Robotic liquid-handling stations (RLHSs) are the mainstay of high-throughput biomedical/forensic DNA sample processing facilities. These liquid-handling systems can be alternatively tooled with either disposable or fixed-tip pipetting heads. The use of disposable tips is often perceived as the best tip configuration to eliminate cross-contamination between biological samples processed on liquid-handling stations. However, this suppression can be effectively achieved on instruments equipped with fixed tips with optimally designed tip wash station (WS) configurations. Fixed-tip instruments offer many significant sample processing advantages with respect to precision, pipetting of liquids that may contain aggregates, and operational cost. This report discusses how cross-contamination suppression was achieved for the reliable processing of forensic casework samples on specially configured fixed-tip TECAN Genesis RSP/Freedom EVO RLHSs. A critical analysis of the major components involved in tip washing, as well as the specifications of a redesigned tip-washing routine that increases wash effectiveness and significantly reduces processing time and cost is also presented.
Multiparallel High-Pressure Reaction in a 384 Microplate
Authors: Allwardt A. , Holzmüller-Laue S. , Wendler C. , Stoll N.
Published: December 2007

In future, laboratories require particularly multivariate laboratory devices. They have to provide an increase of the reactions per time unit and the reduction of the reaction volumes. Furthermore, the devices must be variable integrable in hardware and software in complex laboratory automation systems.

The multiparallel high-pressure microplate reactor (HPMR) 50–384 enables the simultaneous execution of up to 384 reactions in a reaction module under reaction pressures up to 50 bar and temperatures in the range from 0 to 100 °C. The homogenization of the reagents is based on a magnetic stirring system.

The reaction module is based on a commercially available microplate made of polypropylene, MultiChem, or glass. With a cap mat, a perforated cover plate and a support frame such as microplate will be completed. The gas exchange in the reaction vessels can be ensured with an injection system in the lid of the pressure tank. Thus, the HPMR 50–384 enables the handling of air-sensitive compounds under atmospheric conditions. The possibility of integration into a laboratory automation system or the connection to a LIMS makes the HPMR 50–384 to an all-purpose reaction system.
Growth phase of Jovian substorms
Authors: Ge Y. S. , Jian L. K. , Russell C. T.
Published: December 2007

Strong northward and southward field turnings in the near Jovian magnetotail have been observed by Galileo. These sudden dipolarizations and plasmoid formations have been interpreted as signatures of tail reconnection, similar to those seen in terrestrial substorms. In this paper, we examine the temporal behavior of the magnetic field strength in the lobes of the Jovian tail and find that it increases smoothly prior to reconnection events and decreases after them. The tail field variations are similar to those during the growth phase and expansion phase of terrestrial substorms but last a much longer time, about three days. These lobe field changes appear not to be caused by the solar wind dynamic pressure (Pdyn). Thus substorms in the Jovian tail resemble terrestrial substorms in that they have growth phases with increases of the magnetic field strength in the near‐planetary tail field followed by sudden decreases of the field strength when reconnection occurs and plasmoids are released.
Regional and teleseismic double‐difference earthquake relocation using waveform cross‐correlation and global bulletin data
Authors: Waldhauser Felix , Schaff David
Published: December 2007

We have developed a double‐difference algorithm to relocate earthquakes recorded at global seismic networks, using differential arrival times for first and later arriving regional and global phases to invert for the vectors connecting the hypocenters. Differential times are formed from global seismic bulletins and are accurately measured on similar seismograms by time domain waveform cross correlation. We evaluate the performance of this spherical, multiphase double‐difference algorithm using three‐dimensional regional‐scale synthetic data and two sets of earthquake data in different tectonic settings. The first includes 3783 intermediate depth earthquakes that occurred between 1964 and 2000 in the subducting Nazca plate beneath northern Chile, where the relocated seismicity confirms a narrowly spaced double seismic zone previously imaged with temporary local seismic data. Residual statistics and comparison with accurately known locations indicate mean relative location errors at the 90% confidence level of 2.4 km laterally and 1.8 km vertically. Later events typically constrained by cross‐correlation data have errors of 1.6 km laterally and 1.4 km vertically. The second data set includes 75 crustal earthquakes in the 1999 Izmit and Düzce, Turkey, aftershock sequences, where the double‐difference solutions image orientation and dip of individual fault segments that are consistent with focal mechanisms and near‐surface information. Fault complexity likely causes a low level of waveform similarity in this aftershock sequence and thus generates fewer correlated events compared to the Chile earthquakes. Differences between the double‐difference locations and corresponding locations in global seismicity catalogs (Earthquake Data Report, EDR; International Seismological Centre, ISC; Engdahl‐Hilst‐Buland, EHB) are typically greater than 10 km. We evaluate the potential of cross‐correlation and double‐difference methods to improve hypocenter locations on a global scale.
Validation of the Aura Microwave Limb Sounder middle atmosphere water vapor and nitrous oxide measurements
Authors: Lambert A. , Read W. G. , Livesey N. J. , Santee M. L. , Manney G. L. , Froidevaux L. , Wu D. L. , Schwartz M. J. , Pumphrey H. C. , Jimenez C. , Nedoluha G. E. , Cofield R. E. , Cuddy D. T. , Daffer W. H. , Drouin B. J. , Fuller R. A. , Jarnot R. F. , Knosp B. W. , Pickett H. M. , Perun V. S. , Snyder W. V. , Stek P. C. , Thurstans R. P. , Wagner P. A. , Waters J. W. , Jucks K. W. , Toon G. C. , Stachnik R. A. , Bernath P. F. , Boone C. D. , Walker K. A. , Urban J. , Murtagh D. , Elkins J. W. , Atlas E.
Published: December 2007

The quality of the version 2.2 (v2.2) middle atmosphere water vapor and nitrous oxide measurements from the Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) on the Earth Observing System (EOS) Aura satellite is assessed. The impacts of the various sources of systematic error are estimated by a comprehensive set of retrieval simulations. Comparisons with correlative data sets from ground‐based, balloon and satellite platforms operating in the UV/visible, infrared and microwave regions of the spectrum are performed. Precision estimates are also validated, and recommendations are given on the data usage. The v2.2 H2O data have been improved over v1.5 by providing higher vertical resolution in the lower stratosphere and better precision above the stratopause. The single‐profile precision is ∼0.2–0.3 ppmv (4–9%), and the vertical resolution is ∼3–4 km in the stratosphere. The precision and vertical resolution become worse with increasing height above the stratopause. Over the pressure range 0.1–0.01 hPa the precision degrades from 0.4 to 1.1 ppmv (6–34%), and the vertical resolution degrades to ∼12–16 km. The accuracy is estimated to be 0.2–0.5 ppmv (4–11%) for the pressure range 68–0.01 hPa. The scientifically useful range of the H2O data is from 316 to 0.002 hPa, although only the 82–0.002 hPa pressure range is validated here. Substantial improvement has been achieved in the v2.2 N2O data over v1.5 by reducing a significant low bias in the stratosphere and eliminating unrealistically high biased mixing ratios in the polar regions. The single‐profile precision is ∼13–25 ppbv (7–38%), the vertical resolution is ∼4–6 km and the accuracy is estimated to be 3–70 ppbv (9–25%) for the pressure range 100–4.6 hPa. The scientifically useful range of the N2O data is from 100 to 1 hPa.
Rotational relaxation in simple chain models
Authors: Heffernan Julieanne V. , Budzien Joanne , Avila Francisco , Dotson Taylor C. , Aston Victoria J. , McCoy John D. , Adolf Douglas B.
Published: December 2007

The rotational dynamics of chemically similar systems based on freely jointed and freely rotating chains are studied. The second Legendre polynomial of vectors along chain backbones is used to investigate the rotational dynamics at different length scales. In a previous study, it was demonstrated that the additional bond-angle constraint in the freely rotating case noticeably perturbs the character of the translational relaxation away from that of the freely jointed system. Here, it is shown that differences are also apparent in the two systems’ rotational dynamics. The relaxation of the end-to-end vector is found to display a long time, single-exponential tail and a stretched exponential region at intermediate times. The stretching exponents β are found to be 0.75±0.02 for the freely jointed case and 0.68±0.02 for the freely rotating case. For both system types, time-packing-fraction superposition is seen to hold on the end-to-end length scale. In addition, for both systems, the rotational relaxation times are shown to be proportional to the translational relaxation times, demonstrating that the Debye-Stokes-Einstein law holds. The second Legendre polynomial of the bond vector is used to probe relaxation behavior at short length scales. For the freely rotating case, the end-to-end relaxation times scale differently than the bond relaxation times, implying that the behavior is non-Stokes-Einstein, and that time-packing-fraction superposition does not hold across length scales for this system. For the freely jointed case, end-to-endrelaxation times do scale with bond relaxation times, and both Stokes-Einstein and time-packing-fraction-across-length-scales superposition are obeyed.
The single-crystal, basal face of ice Ih investigated with sum frequency generation
Authors: Groenzin Henning , Li Irene , Buch Victoria , Shultz Mary Jane
Published: December 2007

Sum frequency generation spectroscopy has been used to investigate the hydrogen-bonded region of single-crystal, hexagonal ice in the temperature range of 113–178K. The temperature and polarization dependences of the signal are used in conjunction with a recent theoretical model to suggest an interpretation of the bluest and reddest of the hydrogen-bonded peaks. The reddest feature is associated with strong hydrogen bonding; the dynamic polarizability of this feature is primarily parallel to the surface. It is assigned to a cooperative motion among the companion to the free-OH and four-coordinate oscillators hydrogen bonded to dangling lone-pair molecules on the surface. The bluest hydrogen-bonded feature is similarly assigned to a cooperative motion of the OH stretch of dangling lone-pair molecules and of four-coordinate molecules in the lower half bilayer that are hydrogen bonded to free-OH molecules. Reconstruction induced strain is present at as low as 113K. These results provide a richer picture of the ice surface than has heretofore been possible.
A novel method for evaluating the critical nucleus and the surface tension in systems with first order phase transition
Authors: Cammarota Chiara , Cavagna Andrea
Published: December 2007

We introduce a novel method for calculating the size of the critical nucleus and the value of the surface tension in systems with first order phase transition. The method is based on classical nucleation theory, and it consists in studying the thermodynamics of a sphere of given radius embedded in a frozen metastable surrounding. The frozen configuration creates a pinning field on the surface of the free sphere. The pinning field forces the sphere to stay in the metastable phase as long as its size is smaller than the critical nucleus. We test our method in two first order systems, both on a two-dimensional lattice: a system where the parameter tuning the transition is the magnetic field, and a second system where the tuning parameter is the temperature. In both cases the results are satisfying. Unlike previous techniques, our method does not require an infinite volume limit to compute the surface tension, and it therefore gives reliable estimates even by using relatively small systems. However, our method cannot be used at, or close to, the critical point, i.e., at coexistence, where the critical nucleus becomes infinitely large.
The dΠg3-cΣu+3 band system of C2
Authors: Joester Jenna A. , Nakajima Masakazu , Reilly Neil J. , Kokkin Damien L. , Nauta Klaas , Kable Scott H. , Schmidt Timothy W.
Published: December 2007

A two-dimensional fluorescence (excitation/emission) spectrum of C2 produced in an acetylene discharge was used to identify and separate emission bands from the dΠg3←cΣu+3 and dΠg3←aΠu3 excitations. Rotationally resolved excitation spectra of the (4←1), (5←1), (5←2), and (7←3) bands in the dΠg3←cΣu+3 system of C2 were observed by laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy. The molecular constants of each vibrational level, determined from rotational analysis, were used to calculate the spectroscopic constants of the cΣu+3 state. The principal molecular constants for the cΣu+3 state are Be=1.9319(19)cm−1, αe=0.01855(69)cm−1, ωe=2061.9cm−1, ωexe=14.84cm−1, and T0(c−a)=8662.925(3)cm−1. We report also the first experimental observations of dispersed fluorescence from the dΠg3 state to the cΣu+3 state, namely, dΠg3(v=3)→cΣu+3(v=0,1).
Time-resolved measurement of a shock-driven plasma target for interaction experiments between heavy ions and plasmas
Authors: Katagiri K. , Hasegawa J. , Nishinomiya S. , Ikagawa H. , Oguri Y.
Published: December 2007

To observe nonlinearity in the stopping power of a nonideal plasma for heavy ions, we are planning a beam-plasma interaction experiment using 10−100 keV∕u projectiles. For the interaction experiment, a nonideal hydrogen plasma target was developed by means of a shock technique. Time-resolved spectroscopic measurements determined the temporal evolution of the electron density and temperature of the shock plasma. These data revealed that the structure behind the shock front has an appropriate spatial and temporal distribution to be used as a target. We also evaluated the temporal evolution of the Coulomb coupling constant and the degree of ionization at a fixed position where the projectiles are injected. We discuss the feasibility of the nonlinear stopping experiment by evaluating the beam-plasma coupling constant expected from the measured plasma parameters.
High frequency piezoresponse force microscopy in the 1-10MHz regime
Authors: Seal K. , Jesse S. , Rodriguez B. J. , Baddorf A. P. , Kalinin S. V.
Published: December 2007

Imaging mechanisms in piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) in the high frequency regime above the first contact resonance are analyzed. High frequency (HF) imaging enables the effective use of resonance enhancement to amplify weak signals, improves the signal to noise ratio, minimizes the electrostatic contribution to the signal, and improves electrical contact. The limiting factors in HF PFM include inertial stiffening, deteriorating signal transduction, laser spot effects, and the photodetector bandwidth. Analytical expressions for these limits are derived. High-quality PFM operation in the 1–10MHz frequency range is demonstrated and prospects for imaging in the 10–100MHz range are discussed.
A discrete formulation of the Wigner transport equation
Authors: Kim Kyoung-Youm
Published: December 2007

A discrete formulation of the Wigner distribution function (WDF) and the Wigner transport equation (WTE) is proposed, where the “discreteness” of the WDF and WTE is not just a practical, mathematical feature of discretization for the possible computations, but reveals a fundamental physics regarding the maximum correlation length of potentials (an essential quantum-mechanical feature of the WTE): it is set by the positional uncertainty due to the discrete values of momentum in evaluating the discrete WDF. Our formulation also shows that the weighting function to the potential-correlation term can be derived naturally from a mathematical necessity related to the antiperiodicity of the discrete density operator. In addition, we propose a mutually independent discretization scheme for the diagonal and cross-diagonal coordinates of the density operator, which results in a numerically effective discrete WTE in that it requires much less computational resources without significant loss in accuracy.
Metamagnetic transition and magnetic phase diagram in NaZn13-type Pr0.2La0.8Fe11.4Al1.6 compound
Authors: Chen Jing , Zhang Hong-wei , Zhang Li-gang , Sun Ji-rong , Shen Bao-gen
Published: December 2007

Antiferromagnetic (AFM) state with the Néel temperature around 190K is observed in NaZn13-type Pr0.2La0.8Fe11.4Al1.6 compound, similar to that in LaFe11.4Al1.6. After a zero-field-cooling process, a ferromagnetic (FM) state is induced at ∼70K by applying a magnetic field no less than 0.4T for Pr0.2La0.8Fe11.4Al1.6. The AFM-to-FM transition is irreversible at low temperature, but reversible at high temperature. A partial reversible behavior is found at temperature ranging from 70to85K. A magnetic phase diagram is made based on the magnetic measurement. To explain the peculiar diagram, a phenomenological model is proposed. The model is based on a combination of itinerant electronic metamagnetism and the theory for thermal activation.
Enhancement of extreme ultraviolet emission from a CO2 laser-produced Sn plasma using a cavity target
Authors: Ueno Yoshifumi , Soumagne Georg , Sumitani Akira , Endo Akira , Higashiguchi Takeshi
Published: December 2007

We demonstrated enhancement of in-band conversion efficiency (CE) at 13.5nm of the extreme ultraviolet (EUV) emission from a tin (Sn) cavity target irradiated by a CO2 laser pulse. Whereas a planar Sn target produced an in-band CE of around 2%, the use of cavity targets significantly enhanced the EUV emission energy and the EUV CE. An EUV CE of 4% was observed for a Sn cavity target with a depth of 200μm which is one of the highest values ever reported.
Excellent soft-magnetic properties of (Fe,Co)–Mo–(P,C,B,Si) bulk glassy alloys with ductile deformation behavior
Authors: Li Fushan , Shen Baolong , Makino Akihiro , Inoue Akihisa
Published: December 2007

High glass-forming ability and excellent soft-magnetic and mechanical properties were simultaneously achieved in (Fe,Co)–Mo–(P,C,B,Si) bulk glassy alloys (BGAs). The large BGA with a maximal diameter up to 6mm was formed by copper mold casting in the alloys, which is the largest size in FePC BGA system. The BGA with a proper content of Co exhibits superhigh initial effective permeability of over 360 90 at 1kHz and saturation magnetization of over 1.0T. The fracture strength of the BGA reaches 3370MPa. This bulk specimen undergoes a plastic strain exceeding 1%, which is the largest for such large ferromagnetic BGAs.
Temperature dependence of magnetoresistivity of cobalt-polytetrafluoroethylene granular composite films
Authors: Kwong H. Y. , Wong Y. W. , Wong K. H.
Published: December 2007

Heterogeneous granular films consisting of ferromagnetic cobalt particles embedded in a polytetrafluoroethylene polymer matrix were fabricated by the pulsed laser deposition technique carried out with a Nd-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser at 355nm. The samples exhibit a magnetoresistance (MR) change of 4% (at 8kOe) at room temperature. An enhancement of MR to a value of 6% was observed at 20K which is attributed to the increasing order of magnetic moments in the ferromagnetic state at low temperature. Significant loop opening of the MR profile at low temperature and the temperature dependence of MR reveal the interplay of superparamagnetic relaxation behavior and spin-dependent electron tunneling.
Structure and dielectric function of two- and single-domain ZnO epitaxial films
Authors: Vinnichenko M. , Shevchenko N. , Rogozin A. , Grötzschel R. , Mücklich A. , Kolitsch A. , Möller W.
Published: December 2007

The differences between two- and single-domain ZnO epitaxial films, grown by reactive pulsed magnetron sputtering, have been studied with respect to their texture development and x-ray coherence length behavior at various substrate temperatures and oxygen partial pressures. The film in-plane ordering depends on the surface pretreatment of the sapphire substrate. After pretreatment in an oxygen radio-frequency plasma, single-domain films form even at a substrate temperature of 100°C in a wide range of oxygen pressures, and at a growth rate up to 1.2nm∕s. The single-domain films show a linear dependence of the x-ray coherence length on the substrate temperature, while a steplike dependence is characteristic of the two-domain films. The ZnO complex dielectric function was obtained using a parametrized semiconductor oscillator model for spectroscopic ellipsometry data analysis. For the films grown at 550°C, the band gap of 3.29±0.01eV is independent of the type of in-plane ordering and variation of the texture. The oscillator broadening correlates with the width of (0002) diffraction peak rocking curve. Both parameters increase at high oxygen pressure and low substrate temperature, which is attributed to a higher defect (dislocation) density.
Effect of threading defects on InGaN∕GaN multiple quantum well light emitting diodes
Authors: Ferdous M. S. , Wang X. , Fairchild M. N. , Hersee S. D.
Published: December 2007

Photoelectrochemical etching was used to measure the threading defect (TD) density in InGaN multiple quantum well light-emitting diodes (LEDs) fabricated from commercial quality epitaxial wafers. The TD density was measured in the LED active region and then correlated with the previously measured characteristics of these LEDs. It was found that the reverse leakage current increased exponentially with TD density. The temperature dependence of this dislocation-related leakage current was consistent with a hopping mechanism at low reverse-bias voltage and Poole-Frenkel emission at higher reverse-bias voltage. The peak intensity and spectral width of the LED electroluminescence were found to be only weakly dependent on TD density for the measured TD range of 1×107–2×108cm−2.
Enhanced photoelectrochemical responses of ZnO films through Ga and N codoping
Authors: Ahn Kwang-Soon , Yan Yanfa , Shet Sudhakar , Deutsch Todd , Turner John , Al-Jassim Mowafak
Published: December 2007

We report on the crystallinity and photoelectrochemical (PEC) response of ZnO thin films codoped by Ga and N. The ZnO:(Ga,N) thin films were deposited by cosputtering at room temperature and followed by postannealing at 500°C in air for 2h. We found that ZnO:(Ga,N) thin films exhibited significantly enhanced crystallinity compared to ZnO doped solely with N at the same growth conditions. Furthermore, ZnO:(Ga,N) thin films exhibited enhanced N incorporation over ZnO doped solely with N at high temperatures. As a result, ZnO:(Ga,N) thin films achieved dramatically improved PEC response, compared to ZnO thin films doped solely with N at any conditions. Our results suggest a general way to improve PEC response for wide-band-gap oxides.
Visible-wavelength laser action of ZnCdO∕(Zn,Mg)O multiple quantum well structures
Authors: Sadofev S. , Kalusniak S. , Puls J. , Schäfer P. , Blumstengel S. , Henneberger F.
Published: December 2007

We report on laser action of ZnCdO∕ZnO quantum well structures up to room temperature under optical pumping. Prerequisite is a novel annealing step increasing the radiative efficiency of the low-temperature grown structures by more than one order of magnitude. The carrier states involved are localized making the lasing properties temperature robust. The longest wavelength reached so far is 490nm.
FeCo–Au core-shell nanocrystals
Authors: Xu Yun-Hao , Wang Jian-Ping
Published: December 2007

A one-step synthesis of heterostructured high magnetic moment FeCo–Au nanocrystals was demonstrated. The nanocrystals possess a cubic shape and have an average size of 30nm. Compositional analysis revealed the detailed distribution of each element within the nanocrystal. The crystalline structure of the components and their epitaxial relationship were determined by structural analysis. The heterostructured FeCo–Au nanocrystals are promising in biomedical applications as well as in fundamental studies of interactions in the nanoscale.
Subliminal exposure to national flags affects political thought and behavior
Authors: Hassin Ran R. , Ferguson Melissa J. , Shidlovski Daniella , Gross Tamar
Published: December 2007

Political thought and behavior play an important role in our lives, from ethnic tensions in Europe, to the war in Iraq and the Middle Eastern conflict, to parliamentary and presidential elections. However, little is known about how the individual's political attitudes and decisions are shaped by subtle national cues that are so prevalent in our environment. We report a series of experiments that show that subliminal exposure to one's national flag influences political attitudes, intentions, and decisions, both in laboratory settings and in “real-life” behavior. Furthermore, this manipulation consistently narrowed the gap between those who score high vs. low on a scale of identification with Israeli nationalism. The first two experiments examined participants' stance toward the Israeli–Palestinian conflict and the Jewish settlers in the West Bank. Experiment 3 examined voting intentions and actual voting in Israel's recently held general elections. The results portray a consistent picture: subtle reminders of one's nationality significantly influence political thought and overt political behavior.
Planning and Implementation of an Infection Control Training Program for Healthcare Providers in Latin America
Authors: Caniza Miguela A. , Maron Gabriela , McCullers Jonathan , Clara Wilfrido A. , Cedillos Rafael , Dueñas Lourdes , Arnold Sandra , Williams Bonnie F. , Tuomanen Elaine I.
Published: December 2007

Objective.

The lack of well-trained, dedicated infection control personnel prevents optimal control of nosocomial infections in Latin American pediatric oncology centers. We collaboratively planned and implemented a multinational training course in San Salvador, El Salvador, to address this need.

Methods.

The course relied on its organizers' experience in training international healthcare providers, the availability of the International Training Center for Nurses, previous infection control collaboration with the Hospital Nacional de Niños Benjamin Bloom, and resources available at the University of El Salvador. The 4-week course consisted of lecture sessions combined with practical laboratory and hospital experience.

Results.

Two courses, one conducted in 2005 and one in 2006, trained 44 professionals from 15 Latin American countries. Evaluations showed that course content and teacher performance met the trainees' needs and that all trainees acquired the necessary knowledge and skills.

Conclusions.

The course met the need for the training of Latin American infection control practitioners. Our experience can serve as a model for other organizations interested in strengthening infection control and prevention at international sites.
Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Sporotrichosis: 2007 Update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America
Authors: Kauffman Carol A. , Bustamante Beatriz , Chapman Stanley W. , Pappas Peter G.
Published: December 2007

Guidelines for the management of patients with sporotrichosis were prepared by an Expert Panel of the Infectious Diseases Society of America and replace the guidelines published in 2000. The guidelines are intended for use by internists, pediatricians, family practitioners, and dermatologists. They include evidence-based recommendations for the management of patients with lymphocutaneous, cutaneous, pulmonary, osteoarticular, meningeal, and disseminated sporotrichosis. Recommendations are also provided for the treatment of sporotrichosis in pregnant women and in children.
A Case of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease Associated With a Dura Mater Graft in the United States
Authors: Blossom David B. , Maddox Ryan A. , Beavers Suzanne F. , Church Kelly A. , Thoroughman Doug A. , Schonberger Lawrence B. , Belay Ermias D.
Published: December 2007

We describe a case of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease associated with a dura mater graft (Lyodura brand) in a 26-year-old man who underwent several neurosurgical procedures as a child. Clinicians and infection control personnel should be aware that recipients of Lyodura brand dura mater grafts processed before May 1987 may remain at increased risk for Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease throughout their lives.
Survey of Infection Control Programs in a Large National Healthcare System
Authors: Talbot Thomas R. , Tejedor Sheri Chernetsky , Greevy Robert A. , Burgess Hayley , Williams Mark V. , Deshpande Jayant K. , McFadden Patsy , Weinger Matthew B. , Englebright Jane , Dittus Robert S. , Speroff Theodore
Published: December 2007

In light of consumers' and regulators' increasing focus on infection prevention, infection control practices and resources were surveyed at 134 hospitals owned by the Hospital Corporation of America. Infection control practices and resources varied substantially among hospitals, and many facilities reported difficulty acquiring the data they needed to report infection rates.
Comparison of the Use of Administrative Data and an Active System for Surveillance of Invasive Aspergillosis
Authors: Chang Douglas C. , Burwell Lauren A. , Lyon G. Marshall , Pappas Peter G. , Chiller Tom M. , Wannemuehler Kathleen A. , Fridkin Scott K. , Park Benjamin J.
Published: December 2007

Background.

Administrative data, such as International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) codes, are readily available and are an attractive option for surveillance and quality assessment within a single institution or for interinstitutional comparisons. To understand the usefulness of administrative data for the surveillance of invasive aspergillosis, we compared information obtained from a system based on ICD-9 codes with information obtained from an active, prospective surveillance system, which used more extensive case-finding methods (Transplant Associated Infection Surveillance Network).

Methods.

Patients with suspected inyasive aspergillosis were identified by aspergillosis-related ICD-9 codes assigned to hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients and solid organ transplant recipients at a single hospital from April 1, 2001, through January 31, 2005. Suspected cases were classified as proven or probable invasive aspergillosis by medical record review using standard definitions. We calculated the sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV) of identifying invasive aspergillosis by individual ICD-9 codes and by combinations of codes.

Results.

The sensitivity of code 117.3 was modest (63% [95% confidence interval {CI}, 38%-84%]), as was the PPV (71% [95% CI, 44%-90%]); the sensitivity of code 117.9 was poor (32% [95% CI, 13%-57%]), as was the PPV (15% [95% CI, 6%-31%]). The sensitivity of codes 117.3 and 117.9 combined was 84% (95% CI, 60%-97%); the PPV of the combined codes was 30% (95% CI, 18%-44%). Overall, ICD-9 codes triggered a review of medical records for 64 medical patients, only 16 (25%) of whom had proven or probable invasive aspergillosis.

Conclusions.

A surveillance system that involved multiple ICD-9 codes was sufficiently sensitive to identify most cases of invasive aspergillosis; however, the poor PPV of ICD-9 codes means that this approach is not adequate as the sole tool used to classify cases. Screening ICD-9 codes to trigger a medical record review might be a useful method of surveillance for invasive aspergillosis and quality assessment, although more investigation is needed.
Compliance With Personal Precautions Against Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens Among Laboratory Workers: A Canadian Survey
Authors: Main Cheryl L. , Carusone Soo Chan , Davis Kurt , Loeb Mark
Published: December 2007

A survey was conducted in laboratories across Canada to determine rates of compliance with recommended safety precautions against exposure to bloodborne pathogens and the rationale for current behaviors. Laboratory workers reported high rates of exposure to bodily fluids and poor rates of compliance with personal protective behaviors. This national study has identified several deficiencies and strategies for improvement.
Medical Residents' Self-Reported Adherence to Guidelines During Placement of Central Venous Catheters
Authors: Aloul Basel K. Al , Adabag A. Selcuk , Goussous Tareq Y. , Weinert Craig R.
Published: December 2007

In teaching hospitals, the majority of central venous catheters are placed by medical residents. No studies have examined residents' adherence to safe practices during these procedures. We conducted a survey to gather self-reported data on the techniques that internal medicine residents use when placing a central venous catheter to minimize their own risk of infection and their patients' risk of bleeding-related complications.