bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testing for thrombophilia: an evidence-based approach
Authors: Merriman L , Greaves M
Published: November 2006

Thrombophilia is a disorder of haemostasis in which there is a tendency for the occurrence of thrombosis. This tendency can be inherited or acquired. This review outlines common acquired and inherited thrombophilic conditions and discusses indications for testing. It is concluded that testing for acquired thrombophilic conditions should be considered in all cases of venous thrombosis, whereas testing for inherited thrombophilic conditions is unlikely to be helpful. If testing for inherited thrombophilia is to be carried out, the benefits, pitfalls and unwanted consequences of such testing should be taken into account.
Robotic technology in urology
Authors: Murphy D , Challacombe B , Khan M S , Dasgupta P
Published: November 2006

Urology has increasingly become a technology-driven specialty. The advent of robotic surgical systems in the past 10 years has led to urologists becoming the world leaders in the use of such technology. In this paper, we review the history and current status of robotic technology in urology. From the earliest uses of robots for transurethral resection of the prostate, to robotic devices for manipulating laparoscopes and to the current crop of master–slave devices for robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery, the evolution of robotics in the urology operating theatre is presented. Future possibilities, including the prospects for nanotechnology in urology, are awaited.
SET-THEORETIC YANG–BAXTER SOLUTIONS VIA FOX CALCULUS
Authors: CARTER J. SCOTT , SAITO MASAHICO
Published: November 2006

We construct solutions to the set–theoretic Yang–Baxter equation using braid group representations in free group automorphisms and their Fox differentials. The method resembles the extensions of groups and quandles.
THE ALEXANDER POLYNOMIAL OF A TORUS KNOT WITH TWISTS
Authors: MORTON HUGH R.
Published: November 2006

This note gives an explicit calculation of the doubly infinite sequence Δ(p, q, 2m), m ∈ Z of Alexander polynomials of the (p, q) torus knot with m extra full twists on two adjacent strings, where p and q are both positive. The knots can be presented as the closure of the p-string braids [Formula: see text], where δp = σp-1σp-2 · σ2σ1, or equally of the q-string braids [Formula: see text]. As an application we give conditions on (p, q) which ensure that all the polynomials Δ(p, q, 2m) with |m| ≥ 2 have at least one coefficient a with |a| > 1. A theorem of Ozsvath and Szabo then ensures that no lens space can arise by Dehn surgery on any of these knots. The calculations depend on finding a formula for the multivariable Alexander polynomial of the 3-component link consisting of the torus knot with twists and the two core curves of the complementary solid tori.
MODELING AND CONTROL OF DIMENSIONAL QUALITY OF A SERIAL MULTI-STATION MACHINING SYSTEM
Authors: DU SHICHANG , XI LIFENG , PAN ERSHUN , SHI JIANJUN , LIU C. RICHARD
Published: November 2006

Modeling and control of dimensional quality is one of deciding factors in current manufacturing competitions, and has always presented a great challenge to both scientists and engineers since for a multi-station machining system, the final product variation is an accumulation from all stations, and the complex non-linear relationship exits between dimensional quality and machining errors. This paper develops a linear state space model using homogeneous transformation to capture the influence of machined errors on dimensional quality, and the explicit expressions for system matrices of the model are explored. The proposed model employs a linear state space form, facilitating the use of the achievements of control theory, information technology and system engineering theory to support engineers supervisory control of physical machining processes, and it also can be used as an analytical engineering tool for efficient and effective faults diagnosis, system plan and design, and optimal sensors allocation. A real machining case illustrates the proposed model.
CAUTIOUS RELIABILITY ANALYSIS OF MULTI-STATE AND CONTINUUM-STATE SYSTEMS BASED ON THE IMPRECISE DIRICHLET MODEL
Authors: UTKIN LEV V.
Published: November 2006

Cautious reliability estimates of multi-state and continuum-state systems are studied in the paper under condition that initial data about reliability of components are given in the form of interval-valued observations, measurements or expert judgments. The interval-valued information is processed by means of a set of the imprecise Dirichlet model which can be regarded as a set of Dirichlet distributions. The developed model of reliability provides cautious reliability measures when the number of observations or measurements is rather small. It can be viewed as an extension of models based on random set theory and robust statistical models. A numerical example illustrates the proposed model and an algorithm for computing the system reliability.
SOFTWARE FAILURE INTENSITY, RELIABILITY AND OPTIMAL STOPPING TIME INCORPORATING REPAIR POLICIES
Authors: GOKHALE SWAPNA S.
Published: November 2006

Reliability of a software application, its failure intensity and the residual number of faults are three important metrics that provide a quantitative assessment of the failure characteristics of an application. Ultimately, it is also necessary, based on these metrics, to determine an optimal release time at which costs justify the stop test decision. Typically, one of the many stochastic models known as software reliability growth models (SRGMs) is used to characterize the failure behavior of an application to provide estimates of the failure intensity, residual number of faults, reliability, and optimal release time and cost. To ensure analytical tractability, SRGMs assume instantaneous repair and thus the estimates of these metrics obtained using SRGMs tend to be optimistic. In practice, repair activity consumes a non trivial amount of time and resources. Also, repair may be conducted according to many policies which reflect the schedule and budget constraints of a project. A few efforts which incorporate repair into SRGMs are restrictive, since they consider only some SRGMs, model the repair process using a constant repair rate, and provide an estimate of only the residual number of faults. These efforts do not address the issue of estimating the failure intensity, reliability and optimal release time and cost in the presence of repair. In this paper we present a generic framework based on the rate-based simulation technique to incorporate repair policies into finite failure non homogeneous Poisson process (NHPP) class of SRGMs. We describe a methodology to compute the failure intensity and reliability in the presence of repair, and apply it to four popular finite failure NHPP models. We also present an economic cost model which considers explicit repair in providing estimates of optimal release time and cost. We illustrate the potential of the framework to quantify the impact of the parameters of the repair policies on the above metrics using examples. Through these examples we discuss how the framework could be used to guide the allocation of resources to achieve the desired reliability target in a cost-effective manner.
OPTIMAL STATISTICAL DESIGNS OF A MULTIVARIATE CUSUM CHART BASED ON ARL AND MRL
Authors: LEE M. H. , KHOO MICHAEL B. C.
Published: November 2006

Optimal statistical designs of the multivariate CUSUM (MCUSUM) chart for multivariate individual observations based on ARL and MRL are proposed. Statistical design procedures refer to choices of the reference value, k and the control limit, H to ensure that the MCUSUM chart's performance meets certain statistical criteria. The primary criterion is the average run length (ARL) which is the most commonly used measure of a control chart's performance, while the median run length (MRL) which is the 50th percentage point of the run length distribution is suggested to be used as a potential alternative to the ARL or as a secondary criterion in the evaluation of the performance of the MCUSUM control chart. Although the MRL is used in the optimal design of the univariate EWMA and univariate CUSUM charts but the design of an optimal multivariate CUSUM chart based on MRL is not yet given in any literature. This paper also suggests a systematic approach of designing an optimal MCUSUM chart based on the average run length (ARL). The MRL profiles are considered as supplements to the ARL profiles for the control scheme. Examples of optimal designs of the MCUSUM chart based on both MRL and ARL are also presented. Tables are provided to determine the optimal chart parameters for the design of the chart based on both ARL and MRL.
A THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING THE ORGANISATION OF THE R&D FUNCTION: AN EMPIRICAL ILLUSTRATION FROM THE CHEMICAL AND PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY
Authors: CHARUE-DUBOC FLORENCE
Published: November 2006

The increasing importance of innovation for companies, mergers and acquisitions, and the strengthening of project structures are leading to numerous rationalisations in the organisation of the research function. Although few works have analysed company R&D organisation and its impact on innovation performance, we elaborate on the concepts of economy of scope and absorptive capacity, introduced to compare the efficiency of various firms' R&D, so as to analyse the organisation of R&D departments. We focus on inter-project learning and argue that it must be viewed as an organisational question. "Organising by problem" constitutes a new means of cross-project learning and of enhancing absorptive capacity.
INFLUENCES ON ORGANISATIONAL SLACK IN NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
Authors: RICHTNÉR ANDERS , ÅHLSTRÖM PÄR
Published: November 2006

Programs to decrease cost and to increase operational efficiency may reduce a company's ability to innovate, by reducing organisational slack. Previous research on the relationship between organisational slack and innovation has been at level of the firm and has neglected the processes underlying the relationship, which takes place at the level of product development projects. In this paper, we identify organisational slack and its influences at the level of the product development project. Through exploratory case research in high-velocity industries, two influences on organisational slack are identified: customer interaction and top management control. We also identify two categories of organisational slack at the product development project level: project deliverables and human competences. The two influencing variables and the two categories of organisational slack all have an effect on the knowledge creation taking place inside the projects and therefore ultimately innovation.
Femtosecond Stimulated Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Kukura Philipp , McCamant David W. , Mathies Richard A.
Published: November 2006

Femtosecond stimulated Raman spectroscopy (FSRS) is a new ultrafast spectroscopic technique that provides vibrational structural information with high temporal (50-fs) and spectral (10-cm−1) resolution. As a result of these unique capabilities, FSRS studies of chemical and biochemical reaction dynamics are expected to grow rapidly, giving previously unattainable insight into the structural dynamics of reactively evolving systems with atomic spatial and femtosecond temporal resolution. This review discusses the experimental and theoretical concepts behind FSRS, with an emphasis on the origins of its unique temporal and spectral capabilities. We illustrate these capabilities with vibrational studies of ultrafast electronic dynamics, as well as the direct structural observation of nonstationary vibrational wave-packet motion in small molecules and in complex biochemical reaction dynamics.
Role of eNOS-derived NO in the postischemic anti-inflammatory effects of antecedent ethanol ingestion in murine small intestine
Authors: Yamaguchi Taiji , Kamada Kazuhiro , Dayton Catherine , Gaskin F. Spencer , Yusof Mozow , Yoshikawa Toshikazu , Carter Patsy , Korthuis Ronald J.
Published: November 2006

Ingestion of low levels of ethanol 24 h before [ethanol preconditioning (EPC)] ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) prevents postischemic leukocyte rolling (LR) and adhesion (LA), effects that were abolished by adenosine A2receptor (ADO-A2R) antagonists or nitric oxide (NO) synthase (NOS) inhibitors. The aims of this study were to determine whether NO derived from endothelial NOS (eNOS) during the period of ethanol exposure triggered entrance into this preconditioned state and whether these events were initiated by an ADO-A2R-dependent mechanism. Ethanol or distilled water vehicle was administered to C57BL/6J [wild type (WT)] or eNOS-deficient (eNOS−/−) mice by gavage. Twenty-four hours later, the superior mesenteric artery was occluded for 45 min. LR and LA were quantified by intravital microscopy after 30 and 60 min of reperfusion. I/R increased LR and LA in WT mice, effects that were abolished by EPC or NO donor preconditioning (NO-PC). NO-PC was not attenuated by coincident administration of an ADO-A2R antagonist. I/R increased LR and LA in eNOS−/− mice to levels comparable with those noted in WT animals. However, EPC only slightly attenuated postischemic LR and LA, whereas NO-PC remained effective as a preconditioning stimulus in eNOS−/− mice. Preconditioning with an ADO-A2R agonist (which we previously demonstrated prevents I/R-induced LR and LA in WT animals) failed to attenuate these postischemic adhesive responses in eNOS−/− mice. Our results indicate that EPC is triggered by NO formed secondary to ADO-A2R-dependent eNOS activation during the period of ethanol exposure 24 h before I/R.
Mechanotransduction and endothelial cell homeostasis: the wisdom of the cell
Authors: Chien Shu
Published: November 2006

Vascular endothelial cells (ECs) play significant roles in regulating circulatory functions. Mechanical stimuli, including the stretch and shear stress resulting from circulatory pressure and flow, modulate EC functions by activating mechanosensors, signaling pathways, and gene and protein expressions. Mechanical forces with a clear direction (e.g., the pulsatile shear stress and the uniaxial circumferential stretch existing in the straight part of the arterial tree) cause only transient molecular signaling of pro-inflammatory and proliferative pathways, which become downregulated when such directed mechanical forces are sustained. In contrast, mechanical forces without a definitive direction (e.g., disturbed flow and relatively undirected stretch seen at branch points and other regions of complex geometry) cause sustained molecular signaling of pro-inflammatory and proliferative pathways. The EC responses to directed mechanical stimuli involve the remodeling of EC structure to minimize alterations in intracellular stress/strain and elicit adaptive changes in EC signaling in the face of sustained stimuli; these cellular events constitute a feedback control mechanism to maintain vascular homeostasis and are atheroprotective. Such a feedback mechanism does not operate effectively in regions of complex geometry, where the mechanical stimuli do not have clear directions, thus placing these areas at risk for atherogenesis. The mechanotransduction-induced EC adaptive processes in the straight part of the aorta represent a case of the “Wisdom of the Cell,” as a part of the more general concept of the “Wisdom of the Body” promulgated by Cannon, to maintain cellular homeostasis in the face of external perturbations.
Expression of an active LKB1 complex in cardiac myocytes results in decreased protein synthesis associated with phenylephrine-induced hypertrophy
Authors: Noga Anna A. , Soltys Carrie-Lynn M. , Barr Amy J. , Kovacic Suzanne , Lopaschuk Gary D. , Dyck Jason R. B.
Published: November 2006

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a major metabolic regulator in the cardiac myocyte. Recently, LKB1 was identified as a kinase that regulates AMPK. Using immunoblot analysis, we confirmed high expression of LKB1 in isolated rat cardiac myocytes but show that, under basal conditions, LKB1 is primarily localized to the nucleus, where it is inactive. We examined the role of LKB1 in cardiac myocytes, using adenoviruses that express LKB1, and its binding partners Ste20-related adaptor protein (STRADα) and MO25α. Infection of neonatal rat cardiac myocytes with all three adenoviruses substantially increased LKB1/STRADα/MO25α expression, LKB1 activity, and AMPKα phosphorylation at its activating phosphorylation site (threonine-172). Since activation of AMPK can inhibit hypertrophic growth and since LKB1 is upstream of AMPK, we hypothesized that expression of an active LKB1 complex would also inhibit protein synthesis associated with hypertrophic growth. Expression of the LKB1/STRADα/MO25α complex in neonatal rat cardiac myocytes inhibited the increase in protein synthesis observed in cells treated with phenylephrine (measured via [3H]phenylalanine incorporation). This was associated with a decreased phosphorylation of p70S6 kinase and its substrate S6 ribosomal protein, key regulators of protein synthesis. In addition, we show that the pathological cardiac hypertrophy in transgenic mice with cardiac-specific expression of activated calcineurin is associated with a significant decrease in LKB1 expression. Together, our data show that increased LKB1 activity in the cardiac myocyte can decrease hypertrophy-induced protein synthesis and suggest that LKB1 activation may be a method for the prevention of pathological cardiac hypertrophy.
Mycophenolate Acid Inhibits Endothelial NAD(P)H Oxidase Activity and Superoxide Formation by a Rac1-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Krötz Florian , Keller Matthias , Derflinger Sabine , Schmid Holger , Gloe Torsten , Bassermann Florian , Duyster Justus , Cohen Clemens D. , Schuhmann Christoph , Klauss Volker , Pohl Ulrich , Stempfle Hans-Ulrich , Sohn Hae-Young
Published: November 2006

Endothelial dysfunction precedes hypertension and atherosclerosis and predicts cardiac allograft vasculopathy and death in heart transplant recipients. Endothelial overproduction of reactive oxygen species, such as superoxide anions produced by NAD(P)H oxidase, induces endothelial dysfunction. Because immunosuppressive drugs have been associated with increased reactive oxygen species production and endothelial dysfunction, we sought to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Reactive oxygen species, release of superoxide anions, and NAD(P)H oxidase activity were studied in human umbilical vein endothelial cells and in polymorphonuclear neutrophils. Gp91ds-
tat
was used to specifically block NAD(P)H oxidase. Transcriptional activation of different subunits of NAD(P)H oxidase was assessed by real-time RT-PCR. Rac1 subunit translocation and activation were studied by membrane fractionation and pull-down assays. Calcineurin inhibitors significantly increased endothelial superoxide anions production because of NAD(P)H oxidase, whereas mycophenolate acid (MPA) blocked it. MPA also attenuated the respiratory burst induced by neutrophil NAD(P)H oxidase. Because transcriptional activation of NAD(P)H oxidase was not affected, but addition of guanosine restored endothelial superoxide anions formation after MPA treatment, we speculate that the inhibitory effect of MPA was mediated by depletion of cellular guanosine triphosphate content. This prevented activation of Rac1 and, thus, of endothelial NAD(P)H oxidase. Because all heart transplant recipients are at risk for cardiac allograft vasculopathy development, these differential effects of immunosuppressants on endothelial oxidative stress should be considered in the choice of immunosuppressive drugs.
Nerve Growth Factor Is Critical for Cardiac Sensory Innervation and Rescues Neuropathy in Diabetic Hearts
Authors: Ieda Masaki , Kanazawa Hideaki , Ieda Yasuyo , Kimura Kensuke , Matsumura Keisuke , Tomita Yuichi , Yagi Takashi , Onizuka Takeshi , Shimoji Kenichiro , Ogawa Satoshi , Makino Shinji , Sano Motoaki , Fukuda Keiichi
Published: November 2006

Background—

Molecular mechanisms regulating the cardiac sensory nervous system remain poorly understood. Cardiac sensory nerve impairment causes silent myocardial ischemia, a main cause of sudden death in diabetes mellitus (DM). The present study focused on the roles of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the regulation of the cardiac sensory nervous system and analyzed the mechanism of silent myocardial ischemia in DM.

Methods and Results—

We screened neurotrophic factors and found that cardiac sensory nerves developed in parallel with NGF synthesized in the heart. Cardiac nociceptive sensory nerves that were immunopositive for calcitonin gene-related peptide, dorsal root ganglia (DRG), and the dorsal horn were markedly retarded in NGF-deficient mice, whereas cardiac-specific overexpression of NGF rescued these deficits. DM was induced with streptozotocin in wild-type and transgenic mice overexpressing NGF in the heart. Downregulation of NGF, calcitonin gene-related peptide–immunopositive cardiac sensory denervation, and atrophic changes in DRG were observed in DM-induced wild-type mice, whereas these deteriorations were reversed in DM-induced NGF transgenic mice. Cardiac sensory function, measured by myocardial ischemia–induced c-Fos expression in DRG, was also downregulated by DM in the wild-type mice but not in NGF transgenic mice. Direct gene transfer of NGF in the diabetic rat hearts improved impaired cardiac sensory innervation and function, determined by electrophysiological activity of cardiac afferent nerves during myocardial ischemia.

Conclusions—

These findings demonstrate that the development and regulation of the cardiac sensory nervous system are dependent on NGF synthesized in the heart and that DM-induced NGF reduction causes cardiac sensory neuropathy.
Ischemic Heart Disease Events Triggered by Short-Term Exposure to Fine Particulate Air Pollution
Authors: Pope C. Arden , Muhlestein Joseph B. , May Heidi T. , Renlund Dale G. , Anderson Jeffrey L. , Horne Benjamin D.
Published: November 2006

Background—

Recent evidence suggests that long-term exposure to particulate air pollution contributes to pulmonary and systemic oxidative stress, inflammation, progression of atherosclerosis, and risk of ischemic heart disease and death. Short-term exposure may contribute to complications of atherosclerosis, such as plaque vulnerability, thrombosis, and acute ischemic events. These findings are inconclusive and controversial and require further study. This study evaluates the role of short-term particulate exposure in triggering acute ischemic heart disease events.

Methods and Results—

A case-crossover study design was used to analyze ischemic events in 12 865 patients who lived on the Wasatch Front in Utah. Patients were drawn from the cardiac catheterization registry of the Intermountain Heart Collaborative Study, a large, ongoing registry of patients who underwent coronary arteriography and were followed up longitudinally. Ambient fine particulate pollution (particles with an aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 μm; PM
2.5
) elevated by 10 μg/m
3
was associated with increased risk of acute ischemic coronary events (unstable angina and myocardial infarction) equal to 4.5% (95% confidence interval, 1.1 to 8.0). Effects were larger for those with angiographically demonstrated coronary artery disease.

Conclusions—

Short-term particulate exposures contributed to acute coronary events, especially among patients with underlying coronary artery disease. Individuals with stable presentation and those with angiographically demonstrated clean coronaries are not as susceptible to short-term particulate exposure.
First-in-Human Experience of an Antidote-Controlled Anticoagulant Using RNA Aptamer Technology
Authors: Dyke Christopher K. , Steinhubl Steven R. , Kleiman Neal S. , Cannon Richard O. , Aberle Laura G. , Lin Min , Myles Shelley K. , Melloni Chiara , Harrington Robert A. , Alexander John H. , Becker Richard C. , Rusconi Christopher P.
Published: November 2006

Background—Selectivity, titratability, rapidity of onset, and active reversibility are desirable pharmacological properties of anticoagulant therapy administered for acute indications and collectively represent an attractive platform to maximize patient safety. A novel anticoagulation system (REG1, Regado Biosciences), developed using a protein-binding oligonucleotide to factor IXa (drug, RB006) and its complementary oligonucleotide antidote (RB007), was evaluated in healthy volunteers. The primary objective was to determine the safety profile and to characterize the pharmacodynamic responses in this first-in-human study.

Methods and Results—Regado 1a was a subject-blinded, dose-escalation, placebo-controlled study that randomized 85 healthy volunteers to receive a bolus of drug or placebo followed 3 hours later by a bolus of antidote or placebo. Pharmacodynamic samples were collected serially. Subject characteristics were the following: median age, 32 years (interquartile range, 23 to 39 years); female gender, 35%; and median weight, 79 kg (interquartile range, 70 to 87 kg). No significant differences were found in median hemoglobin, platelet, creatinine, or liver function studies. There were no significant bleeding signals associated with RB006, and overall, both drug and antidote were well tolerated. One serious adverse event, an episode of transient encephalopathy, occurred in a subject receiving the low intermediate dose of RB006. The subject’s symptoms resolved rapidly, and no further sequelae occurred. A predictable dose-pharmacodynamic response, reflected in activated partial thromboplastin time measurements, was seen after administration of the bolus of drug, with a clear correlation between the peak posttreatment activated partial thromboplastin time and post hoc weight-adjusted dose of drug (correlation coefficient, 0.725;P<0.001). In subjects treated with drug, antidote administration reversed the pharmacological activity of the drug, with a rapid (mean time, 1 to 5 minutes across all dose levels) and sustained return of activated partial thromboplastin time to within the normal range. The activated clotting time followed a similar anticoagulant response and reversal pattern. As anticipated, prothrombin time remained unchanged compared with baseline.

Conclusions—These observations represent a first-in-human experience of an RNA aptamer and its complementary oligonucleotide antidote used as an anticoagulant system. The findings contribute to an emerging platform of selective, actively reversible anticoagulant drugs for use among patients with thrombotic disorders of the venous and arterial circulations.
Medical Treatment of Dementia Patients at the End of Life: Can the Law Accommodate the Personal Identity and Welfare Problems?
Authors: Lewis Penney
Published: November 2006

This article considers whether two significant philosophical objections to autonomy-based legal approaches to decision-making for incompetent individuals could be accommodated by the law. These philosophical objections are known as the personal identity and welfare problems. The article first sets out the autonomy-based approaches and their objections. Next, the present legal position is briefly canvassed in a comparative vein. Finally, the article suggests how the personal identity and welfare problems might be accommodated were legislators minded to do so, by proposing specific statutory amendments to the recent English legislation on advance decisions and evaluating their viability, particularly in light of the European Convention on Human Rights.
Production of Nanosized Carbon Black from Hydrocarbon by a Thermal Plasma
Authors: Yang Hye-Min , Nam Won-Ki , Park Dong-Wha
Published: November 2006

Thermal plasma conditions (optimal heat and radical sources for the thermal decomposition) can be used to accelerate thermodynamically favorable chemical reactions or provide the energy required for endothermic reforming processes. Direct thermal decomposition of hydrocarbon (methane,
acetylene, and propane) was carried out using a thermal plasma system which is an environmentally favorable process. In case of thermal decomposition, high purity of the hydrogen and solidified nano-sized carbon can be achieved without any contaminant. The main product carbon produced by thermal
decomposition can be either sequestered or used as a raw material and it can be applied for the varieties of industry fields. The morphology of the carbon was characterized by SEM and the particle size was determined by a particle size analyzer. It was observed that the carbon black particles
were sphere particles with mainly several tens of nano-sized diameters, those are about 10–80 nm. It can be expected to be used as a raw material of laser printer toner which requires small sized carbon black particles; An average primary particle size of PRINTEX® L (Degussa
Fillers & Pigment) used in a part of printing inks is 23 nm. In case of the XRD pattern of the produced carbon black from acetylene is of higher crystalline than the commercialized carbon black used for fuel cells. Also carbon species produced were characterized by EA and TGA.
Hydrochloric Acid Treatment of TiO2 Electrode for Quasi-Solid-State Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Park Dong-Won , Park Kyung-Hee , Lee Jae-Wook , Hwang Kyung-Jun , Choi Yong-Kook
Published: November 2006

Quasi-solid-state dye-sensitized solar cell was fabricated by sandwiched polymer electrolyte containing liquid electrolytes between the dye-sensitized TiO2 electrode and a Pt electrode. The influence of hydrochloric acid treatment of TiO2 photoelectrode on the
photoelectronic performance was investigated. Quasi-solid-state dye-sensitized solar cell showed better photoelectronic performance when the TiO2 electrode was treated with hydrochloric acid than that without treatment. The short-circuit current density (Jsc),
the open-circuit voltage (Voc), and a conversion efficiency obtained for an incident light intensity of 100 mW m−2 were 6.49 mA cm−2, 0.76 V and 4.1%, respectively. It was found that the hydrochloric acid treatment of TiO2 electrode
increased the short-circuit current density and cell efficiency.
The Evaluation of Individual Dispersion of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Using Absorption and Fluorescence Spectroscopic Techniques
Authors: Yoon Dokyung , Kang Sun-Jung , Choi Jae-Boong , Kim Young-Jin , Baik Seunghyun
Published: November 2006

We have investigated the degree of dispersion of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) in solution using laser spectroscopic techniques. SWNTs were suspended in aqueous media using a sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) surfactant. SWNTs with different dispersion states were prepared by controlling
the intensity and duration of sonication and centrifugation. The absorption and fluorescence spectroscopic techniques were employed to characterize the different dispersion state of the prepared samples. Nanotube suspensions with better dispersion showed higher fluorescence and sharper absorption
peaks. The fluorescence data were characterized as a function of the nanotube chirality, and absorption peak shifts were analyzed depending on the first and second van Hove singularities (vHs) of semiconducting nanotubes.
Novel Synthesis of Nanorod ZnO and Fe-Doped ZnO by the Hydrolysis of Metal Powders
Authors: Han B. S. , Uhm Y. R. , Kim G. M. , Rhee C. K.
Published: November 2006

Fe-doped ZnO nanorods have been synthesized by a novel process employing a hydrolysis of metal powders. Zn and Fe nano-powders were used as starting materials and incorporated into distilled water. The solution was refluxed at 60 °C for 24 h to obtain the precipitates from the hydrolysis
of Zn and Fe. X-ray diffraction patterns for all the samples showed a pure wurtzite single phase, without any segregation of the Fe into the particulates within the instrumental resolution limit. The TEM results for ZnO with and without an Fe-doping showed that the produced powders had a rod-like
shape. The rod shape was attributable to the zinc oxide from the hydrolysis of Zn. With an increasing Fe content, the UV–vis spectra were shifted to a long wave length and this result indicates that the band gap was changed by an Fe-doping.
Fabrication of Poly-Silicon Nano-Wire Transistors on Plastic Substrates
Authors: Park ChangMin , Lee SeHan , Choi MinSu , Kang MyungGil , Jung YoungChai , Hwang SungWoo , Ahn Doyeol , Lee JungHyeon , Song ChangRyong
Published: November 2006

We report the fabrication and characterization of poly-Si nanowire transistors on flexible substrates. The nanowire transistors are fabricated on a SiO2/Si substrate using conventional CMOS processes, and then they are transferred onto polyimide substrates. The transfer process
is performed by spin-coating of polyimide, curing (annealing) of the polyimide layer, and removal of the SiO2 sacrificial layer. The optimized curing condition results in the maximum bending of 150° with full recovery. The nanowire transistors exhibit transistor characteristics
as a function of the backgate bias. Our new process can be applied to the fabrication of Si-nanowire transistors with larger mobilities.
Selective Atomic Layer Deposition of Metal Oxide Thin Films on Patterned Self-Assembled Monolayers Formed by Microcontact Printing
Authors: Lee Byoung H. , Sung Myung M.
Published: November 2006

We demonstrate a selective atomic layer deposition of TiO2, ZrO2, and ZnO thin films on patterned alkylsiloxane self-assembled monolayers. Microcontact printing was done to prepare patterned monolayers of the alkylsiloxane on Si substrates. The patterned monolayers
define and direct the selective deposition of the metal oxide thin films using atomic layer deposition. The selective atomic layer deposition is based on the fact that the metal oxide thin films are selectively deposited only on the regions exposing the silanol groups of the Si substrates
because the regions covered with the alkylsiloxane monolayers do not have any functional group to react with precursors.
Silicon Subiodide Clusters
Authors: Dmytruk Andriy , Park Yeon-Su , Kasuya Atsuo , Kikuchi Hideki , Takahashi Masae , Kawazoe Yoshiyuki , Watanabe Akira
Published: November 2006

Silicon subiodide clusters (SinIm, n = 1–20) produced by laser ablation of bulk powder silicone tetraiodide have been investigated by time-of-flight mass spectroscopy and ab initio calculations. Both experimental results and theoretical
calculations revealed a tendency to form different structures of the clusters depending on n: chain, ring, and cage structures for n ≤ 6, 6 < n < 16, and n ≥ 16, respectively. The results showed that iodine, like hydrogen, can be used for stable silicon
cluster termination.
Effect of Catalyst Thickness and Plasma Pretreatment on the Growth of Carbon Nanotubes and Their Field Emission Properties
Authors: Uh Hyung Soo , Park Sang Sik , Kim Byung Whan
Published: November 2006

We demonstrated that the diameter and the density of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) which had a close relation to electric-field-screening effect could be easily changed by the control of catalytic Ni thickness combined with NH3 plasma pretreatment. Since the diameter and the density
of CNTs had a tremendous impact on the field-emission characteristics, optimized thickness of catalyst and application of plasma pretreatment greatly improved the emission efficiency of CNTs. In the field emission test using diode-type configuration, well-dispersed thinner CNTs exhibited lower
turn-on voltage and higher field enhancement factor than the densely-packed CNTs. A CNT film grown using a plasma-pretreated 25 Å-thick Ni catalyst showed excellent field emission characteristics with a very low turn-on field of 1.1 V/μm @ 10 μA/cm2
and a high emission current density of 1.9 mA/cm2 @ 4.0 V/μm, respectively.
The Bulk Piezoresistive Characteristics of Carbon Nanotube Composites for Strain Sensing of Structures
Authors: Kang Inpil , Joung Kwan Young , Choi Gyeong-Rak , Schulz Mark J. , Choi Yeon-Sun , Hwang Sung-Ho , Ko Han Seo
Published: November 2006

The bulk piezoresistivity of carbon nanotube (CNT) in polymer matrix was discussed to develop a strain sensor for engineering applications. The polymer improves interfacial bonding between the nanotubes and the CNT composite and that enhances the strain transfer, repeatability, and
linearity of the sensor. The largest contribution of piezoresistivity of the sensor may come from slippage of overlaying or bundled nanotubes in the matrix, from a macroscopic point of view. Nano interfaces of CNTs in a matrix polymer also contribute to the linear strain response compared
to other micro size carbon filler. The strain sensor had a low bandwidth and adequate strain sensitivity. The nanocomposite strain sensor is particularly useful for detecting large strains which can monitor strain and stress on a structure with simple electric circuit for strain monitoring
of structures.
Significantly Improved Adhesion of Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) Nanofilms to Amino-Silane Monolayer Pre-Patterned SiO2 Surfaces
Authors: Pang Ilsun , Kim Sungsoo , Lee Jaegab
Published: November 2006

This study reports a novel patterning method for highly pure poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) nanofilms having a particularly strong adhesion to a SiO2 surface. An oxidized silicon wafer substrate was micro-contact printed with n-octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) monolayer,
and subsequently its negative pattern was self-assembled with three different amino-functionalized alkylsilanes, (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (APS), N-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyltrimethoxy silane (EDAS), and (3-trimethoxysilylpropyl) diethylenetriamine (DETS). Then, PEDOT nanofilms were
selectively grown on the aminosilane pre-patterned areas via the vapor phase polymerization method. To evaluate the adhesion and patterning, the PEDOT nanofilms and SAMs were investigated with a Scotch® tape test, contact angle analyzer, optical and atomic force microscopes.
The evaluation revealed that the newly developed bottom-up process can successfully offer a strongly adhered and selectively patterned PEDOT nanofilm on an oxidized Si wafer surface.
Synthesis and Characterization of Highly Twisted and Bulky Tetraoctyloxybiphenyl-Containing Polyfluorene Copolymers: Toward Efficient Blue Polymer Light Emitting Diodes
Authors: Kang In-Nam , Lim Sung-Hwan , Park Jong-Wook , Kim Kyoung-Soo , Chung Min-Chul , Lee Ji-Hoon
Published: November 2006

We have synthesized new blue light emitting random copolymers, poly(9,9′-n-dioctylfluorene-co-2,2′,6,6′-tetraoctyloxybiphenyl-3,3′-diyl)s (PFTOBPs), via Ni(0)-mediated coupling reactions. The PL emission peaks of the resulting copolymers closely
resembled those of the polyfluorene (PF) homopolymer. The EL devices fabricated using these copolymers exhibited highly pure blue emission with approximate 1931 CIE coordinates of (0.15, 0.15) at 1000 cd/m2. The maximum brightnesses ranged from 2000 to 12000 cd/m2 with
maximum efficiencies from 0.53 to 0.97 cd/A. The efficiencies were found to increase as the fraction of TOBP in the copolymers was increased, which may result the inhibition of exciton quenching that is produced by the introduction of the highly twisted and bulky TOBP moieties into the copolymers.
The Intensity Forecasting Experiment: A NOAA Multiyear Field Program for Improving Tropical Cyclone Intensity Forecasts
Authors: Rogers Robert , Aberson Sim , Black Michael , Black Peter , Cione Joe , Dodge Peter , Dunion Jason , Gamache John , Kaplan John , Powell Mark , Shay Nick , Surgi Naomi , Uhlhorn Eric
Published: November 2006

In 2005, NOAA's Hurricane Research Division (HRD), part of the Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory, began a multiyear experiment called the Intensity Forecasting Experiment (IFEX). By emphasizing a partnership among NOAA's HRD, Environmental Modeling Center (EMC), National Hurricane Center (NHC), Aircraft Operations Center (AOC), and National Environmental Satellite Data Information Service (NESDIS), IFEX represents a new approach for conducting hurricane field program operations. IFEX is intended to improve the prediction of tropical cyclone (TC) intensity change by 1) collecting observations that span the TC life cycle in a variety of environments; 2) developing and refining measurement technologies that provide improved real-time monitoring of TC intensity, structure, and environment; and 3) improving the understanding of the physical processes important in intensity change for a TC at all stages of its life cycle.

This paper presents a summary of the accomplishments of IFEX during the 2005 hurricane season. New and refined technologies for measuring such fields as surface and three-dimensional wind fields, and the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, were achieved in a variety of field experiments that spanned the life cycle of several tropical cyclones, from formation and early organization to peak intensity and subsequent landfall or extratropical transition. Partnerships with other experiments during 2005 also expanded the spatial and temporal coverage of the data collected in 2005. A brief discussion of the plans for IFEX in 2006 is also provided.
Retrieval of Latent Heating from TRMM Measurements
Authors: Tao W.-K. , Smith E. A. , Adler R. F. , Haddad Z. S. , Hou A. Y. , Iguchi T. , Kakar R. , Krishnamurti T. N. , Kummerow C. D. , Lang S. , Meneghini R. , Nakamura K. , Nakazawa T. , Okamoto K. , Olson W. S. , Satoh S. , Shige S. , Simpson J. , Takayabu Y. , Tripoli G. J. , Yang S.
Published: November 2006

Rainfall is a fundamental process within the Earth's hydrological cycle because it represents a principal forcing term in surface water budgets, while its energetics corollary, latent heating, is the principal source of atmospheric diabatic heating well into the middle latitudes. Latent heat production itself is a consequence of phase changes between the vapor, liquid, and frozen states of water. The properties of the vertical distribution of latent heat release modulate large-scale meridional and zonal circulations within the Tropics, as well as modify the energetic efficiencies of midlatitude weather systems.

This paper highlights the retrieval of latent heating from satellite measurements generated by the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite observatory, which was launched in November 1997 as a joint American–Japanese space endeavor. Since then, TRMM measurements have been providing credible four-dimensional accounts of rainfall over the global Tropics and subtropics, information that can be used to estimate the space–time structure of latent heating across the Earth's low latitudes.

A set of algorithm methodologies for estimating latent heating based on precipitation-rate profile retrievals obtained from TRMM measurements has been under continuous development since the advent of the mission s research program. These algorithms are briefly described, followed by a discussion of the latent heating products that they generate. The paper then provides an overview of how TRMM-derived latent heating information is currently being used in conjunction with global weather and climate models, concluding with remarks intended to stimulate further research on latent heating retrieval from satellites.
Fair Trade and Neoliberalism
Authors: Fridell Gavin
Published: November 2006

Emerging perspectives on the fair-trade network can be grouped into three broad categories on the basis of their overarching assumptions. The “shaped-advantage” perspective depicts fair trade as a project that assists local groups in developing capacities to help offset the negative impact of globalization. The “alternative” perspective depicts fair trade as an alternative model of globalization that, in contrast to the neoliberal paradigm, seeks to “include” the poorest sectors in the purported benefits of international trade. The “decommodification” perspective portrays fair trade as a challenge to the commodification of goods under global capitalism. The grouping that least reflects the full aims of the network, the shaped-advantage perspective, most accurately reflects fair trade's overall impact. This raises concerns about the ability of fair traders to achieve their objectives within the market-based model they have developed.
Mexican Union Women and the Social Construction of Women's Labor Rights
Authors: Brickner Rachel K.
Published: November 2006

While much has been written about organized labor's role in strengthening democratic rule and citizenship in Latin America, little research has been done on its role in expanding women's citizenship rights. A society's ideas about citizenship and the rights that reflect these ideas are not simply granted by the state. Rather, they result from civil society's continued discourse and struggle with and against the state. For traditionally marginalized members of a society such as women, this organized social discourse and struggle is an essential means of contributing to social dialogue about what citizenship should be and demanding the creation or enforcement of citizenship rights that reflect that dialogue. Union women in Mexico City have promoted changes in union culture and Mexico's federal labor law so that both more effectively protect the fundamental equality of women workers.
Exporting People and Recruiting Remittances
Authors: Gammage Sarah
Published: November 2006

Migration is an emerging development strategy embraced by the state and elites in El Salvador. As primary export prices decline and nontraditional agricultural exports and assembly production fail to fulfill their promise of compensating for reduced export volumes and sales, exporting people has become an increasingly viable strategy for recruiting foreign exchange, reducing poverty, and injecting new capital into the financial sector. Yet the ability to capitalize on these resources is limited within the current neoliberal model. Migration can act as a safety valve, relieving pressure on the economy and sopping up excess labor, but it is unlikely that the flow of remittances can dynamize the economy and anchor long-term sustainable growth.
Diabetes Self-management Education Program for Medicaid Recipients
Authors: Balamurugan Appathurai , Ohsfeldt Robert , Hughes Tom , Phillips Martha
Published: November 2006

Purpose

Diabetes self-management education (DSME) is the cornerstone in effective management of diabetes. The continuous quality improvement process was used to identify the problem, collect and analyze data, and develop and implement a DSME program for Medicaid recipients, and subsequently, the program was evaluated to assess its effectiveness.

Methods

A DSME program consisting of a 1-hour initial assessment of individual needs followed by 12 hours of group education on nutrition and self-management was provided to 212 Arkansas Medicaid recipients over 1 year. Key clinical measures were assessed at the end of the period.

Results

Over 1 year, mean HbA1c declined by 0.45% among the DSME participants who completed the full program. Multivariate analyses found that after controlling for age, gender, race, preperiod diabetes drug use, and preperiod costs, DSME participants were found to have fewer hospital admissions, emergency department visits, and outpatient visits. Changes from baseline clinical values for DSME participants were used to project changes in diabetes-related costs using the Gilmer model. An estimated savings in diabetes-related cost over 3 years was $415 per program completer. Over 10 years, completers were estimated to experience 12% fewer coronary heart disease events and 15% fewer microvascular disease events using the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study risk models.

Conclusions

A DSME program for Medicaid recipients can reduce health care use among Medicaid recipients with diabetes within 1 year and over longer periods of time is likely to reduce costs associated with reduced use of health care. Plans are in place to explore the possibility of sustaining the program.