bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of N P K S Zn and B on Yield Attributes and Yield of French Bean in South Eastern Hilly Region of Bangladesh
Authors: Moniruzzaman M , Islam MR , Hasan H
Published: December 2008

A field experiment on French bean taking the variety BARI Jhar Shim-2 was conducted with five levels of Nitrogen (0, 40, 80, 120 and 160 kg N ha-1) and four levels of each of phosphorous (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg P2O5 ha-1), potassium (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg K2O ha-1) and sulfur (0, 10, 20 and 30 kg S ha-1), three levels of each of zinc (0, 4 and 8 kg Zn ha-1) and boron (0, 1 and 1.5 kg B ha-1) at the Agricultural Research Station, Raikhali, Rangamati Hill District during Rabi (winter) seasons of 2005-2006 and 2006-2007. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Yield and yield components of French bean were significantly influenced by different fertilizer treatments containing macro and micronutrients separately. Results showed significant effect of fertilizers on plant height, number of branches and leaves per plant, pod length, number of green pods and pod weight per plant and green pod yield during both years. The highest pod yield of 23.14 t ha-1 (average of 2005-2006 and 2006-2007) was obtained with 120-120-60-20-4-1 kg of N-P2O5-K2O-S-Zn-B plus 0.5 kg Mo ha-1 along with 10 tons cowdung per hectare that was closely followed by 120-80-60-20-4-1 kg of N-P2O5-K2O-S-Zn-B plus 0.5 kg Mo ha-1 along with 10 tons cowdung per hectare. The response equations indicated an optimum level of 138.6 kg N, 131.5 kg P2O5, 63.4 kg K2O and 17.4 kg S ha-1 for higher green fruit yield of French bean. The economic doses of nutrients came out to be 135.8-123.3-60-17.4 kg of N-P2O5-K2O-S ha-1. Application of 136-123-60-17-4-1 kg N-P2O5-K2O-S-Zn-B plus 0.5 kg Mo ha-1 along with 10 tons cowdung per hectare might be considered as profitable dose for growing French bean in South-Eastern hilly region of Bangladesh. Key words: Legume, French bean, Rabi, Rangamati, Rhizobium, AEZ-29, physiological maturation. doi:10.3329/jard.v6i1.1660 J Agric Rural Dev 6(1&2), 75-82, June 2008
HPLC, NMR and MALDI-TOF MS Analysis of Condensed Tannins from Lithocarpus glaber Leaves with Potent Free Radical Scavenging Activity
Authors: Zhang Liang Liang , Lin Yi Ming
Published: December 2008

Using acid-catalyzed degradation in the presence of cysteamine, the condensed tannins from Lithocarpus glaber leaves were characterized, following thiolysis, by means of reversed-phase HPLC, 13C-NMR and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) analyses. The thiolysis reaction products showed the presence of the procyanidin (PC) and prodelphinidin (PD) structures. The 13C-NMR spectrum revealed that the condensed tannins were comprised of PD (72.4%) and PC (27.6%), and with a greater content of cis configuration rather than the trans configuration of C2–C3. The MALDI-TOF MS analysis proved the presence of PD units, and the maximum degree of polymerization (DP) was an undecamer. The antioxidant activity of condensed tannins from L. glaber leaves was evaluated by using a free radical scavenging activity assay.
Chemical Synthesis of Proanthocyanidins in Vitro and Their Reactions in Aging Wines
Authors: He Fei , Pan Qiu-Hong , Shi Ying , Duan Chang-Qing
Published: December 2008

Proanthocyanidins are present in many fruits and plant products like grapes and wine, and contribute to their taste and health benefits. In the past decades of years, substantial progresses has been achieved in the identification of composition and structure of proanthocyanidins, but the debate concerning the existence of an enzymatic or nonenzymatic mechanism for proanthocyanidin condensation still goes on. Substantial attention has been paid to elucidating the potential mechanism of formation by means of biomimetic and chemical synthesis in vitro. The present paper aims at summarizing the research status on chemical synthesis of proanthocyanidins, including non-enzymatic synthesis of proanthocyanidin precursors, chemical synthesis of proanthocyanidins with direct condensation of flavanols and stereoselective synthesis of proanthocyanidins. Proanthocyanidin-involved reactions in aging wines are also reviewed such as direct and indirect reactions among proanthocyanidins, flavanols and anthocyanins. Topics for future research in this field are also put forward in this paper.
Characterization of the PT Clade of Oligopeptide Transporters in Rice
Authors: Vasconcelos Marta W. , Li Gloria W. , Lubkowitz Mark A. , Grusak Michael A.
Published: December 2008

Oligopeptide transporters (OPTs) are a group of membrane‐localized proteins that have a broad range of substrate transport capabilities and that are thought to contribute to many biological processes. Nine OPTs belonging to the peptide transport (PT) clade were identified in the rice (Oryza sativa L.) genome, based on their predicted amino acid sequences containing the two highly conserved motifs (NPG and KIPPR) that define the PT‐OPT subgroup. Protein identity analysis comparing the rice OPTs of the PT and yellow stripe (YS) clades revealed low levels of similarity between members of these two OPT subgroups. Sequence analysis of the predicted proteins of the PT clade, named OsOPT1 to OsOPT9, revealed all to be integral membrane proteins. Functional analysis of five of the OsOPTs, using a yeast complementation assay, demonstrated that OsOPT1, OsOPT3, OsOPT4, OsOPT5, and OsOPT7 could transport ferrous and/or ferric iron chelated to nicotianamine, a nonpeptidyl metal‐chelate. Semi quantitative reverse‐transcriptase polymerase chain reaction verified expression of the OsOPTs in roots, stems, leaves, hulls, pedicels, and embryos, but transcripts for each OsOPT were not found in every tissue. The identification of multiple PT‐clade OPT genes in rice with different expression patterns indicates that they may have different biological roles in the plant.
Anti–α8 integrin immunoliposomes in glomeruli of lupus‐susceptible mice: A novel system for delivery of therapeutic agents to the renal glomerulus in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Scindia Yogesh , Deshmukh Umesh , Thimmalapura Pushpa‐Rekha , Bagavant Harini
Published: November 2008

Objective

Glomerular mesangial cells are active participants in the pathogenesis of lupus glomerulonephritis (GN). Thus, targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to mesangial cells would be an attractive approach to treatment. However, lack of known unique mesangial cell surface markers has hampered this process. This study was undertaken in a mouse model of lupus GN to identify mesangial markers and to develop a system for targeted drug delivery to the glomerulus.

Methods

Based on previous observations, α8 integrin expressed on the surface of glomerular mesangial cells was selected as a target molecule for delivery. Two mouse strains susceptible to lupus GN, NZM2328 and (NZM2328 × NOD)F1, were studied. Glomerular expression of α8 integrin in normal and nephritic mice was confirmed by immunofluorescence and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. Liposomes were formulated and conjugated with an anti–α8 integrin antibody. These immunoliposomes were loaded with DiI, a red fluorescent dye, to allow tracking in vivo, and injected into the tail vein of female mice at different ages. Specificity of targeting was studied by fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry.

Results

Expression of α8 integrin was observed in the glomeruli of normal and nephritic mice. Anti–α8 integrin immunoliposomes were detected in the glomerulus and glomerular mesangial cells after tail vein injection in normal and nephritic mice. Delivery of DiI by anti–α8 integrin immunoliposomes was tissue specific, being observed predominantly in the glomeruli, with some nonspecific uptake by CD11b cells.

Conclusion

These findings are the first demonstration of specific delivery of anti–α8 integrin immunoliposomes to the mesangium following tail vein injection in mice. Anti–α8 integrin immunoliposomes thus offer a novel approach for targeted drug therapy in lupus and other glomerular diseases.
Spliceosomal peptide P140 for immunotherapy of systemic lupus erythematosus: Results of an early phase II clinical trial
Authors: Muller Sylviane , Monneaux Fanny , Schall Nicolas , Rashkov Rasho K. , Oparanov Boycho A. , Wiesel Philippe , Geiger Jean‐Marie , Zimmer Robert
Published: November 2008

Objective

To assess the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of spliceosomal peptide P140 (IPP‐201101; sequence 131–151 of the U1‐70K protein phosphorylated at Ser140), which is recognized by lupus CD4+ T cells, in the treatment of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

An open‐label, dose‐escalation phase II study was conducted in two centers in Bulgaria. Twenty patients (2 male and 18 female) with moderately active SLE received 3 subcutaneous (SC) administrations of a clinical batch of P140 peptide at 2‐week intervals. Clinical evaluation was performed using approved scales. A panel of autoantibodies, including antinuclear antibodies, antibodies to extractable nuclear antigens (U1 RNP, SmD1, Ro/SSA, La/SSB), and antibodies to double‐stranded DNA (anti‐dsDNA), chromatin, cardiolipin, and peptides of the U1‐70K protein, was tested by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The plasma levels of C‐reactive protein, total Ig, IgG, IgG subclasses, IgM, IgA, and IgE, and of the cytokines interleukin‐2 and tumor necrosis factor α were measured by ELISA and nephelometry.

Results

IgG anti‐dsDNA antibody levels decreased by at least 20% in 7 of 10 patients who received 3 × 200 μg IPP‐201101 (group 1), but only in 1 patient in the group receiving 3 × 1,000 μg IPP‐201101 (group 2). Physician's global assessment of disease activity scores and scores on the SLE Disease Activity Index were significantly decreased in group 1. The changes occurred progressively in the population of responders, increased in magnitude during the treatment period, and were sustained. No clinical or biologic adverse effects were observed in the individuals, except for some local irritation at the highest concentration.

Conclusion

IPP‐201101 was found to be safe and well tolerated by subjects. Three SC doses of IPP‐201101 at 200 μg significantly improved the clinical and biologic status of lupus patients.
Activation of the receptor EphB4 by its specific ligand ephrin B2 in human osteoarthritic subchondral bone osteoblasts
Authors: Kwan Tat Steeve , Pelletier Jean‐Pierre , Amiable Nathalie , Boileau Christelle , Lajeunesse Daniel , Duval Nicolas , Martel‐Pelletier Johanne
Published: November 2008

Objective

Abnormal subchondral bone metabolism is involved in osteoarthritis (OA). It has been suggested that ephrin B2 and its specific receptor EphB4 participate in bone homeostasis. We previously reported that human OA subchondral bone osteoblasts could be classified into 2 subpopulations: low (L), having proresorption properties, and high (H), having proformation properties. The purpose of this study was to investigate the importance of the ephrin system in OA subchondral bone osteoblasts.

Methods

The presence of the EphB4 receptor was determined by immunohistochemistry, and its expression level, modulation upon treatment, and consequences of activation by ephrin B2 were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The effects of ephrin B2 activation of the EphB4 receptor on bone resorption activity were also determined. EphB4 receptor activation signaling pathways were investigated by specific enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

EphB4 receptors were present in subchondral bone osteoblasts and osteocytes. Compared with normal and H‐OA osteoblasts, EphB4 receptor expression levels were significantly increased in L‐OA osteoblasts, with no difference between normal and H‐OA osteoblasts. EphB4 receptor levels in L‐OA osteoblasts were significantly up‐regulated by prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and interleukin‐17 (IL‐17). Ephrin B2, PGE2, and IL‐17 significantly inhibited bone resorption activity in these cells. EphB4 activation by ephrin B2 significantly inhibited the expression of IL‐1β, IL‐6, matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP‐1), MMP‐9, MMP‐13, and RANKL, but not MMP‐2 and osteoprotegerin. EphB4 receptor activation significantly inhibited the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/Akt pathway.

Conclusion

This study is the first to provide evidence that EphB4 receptor activation by ephrin B2 in OA subchondral bone could affect abnormal metabolism in this tissue by inhibiting resorption factors and their activities. Ephrin B2 could be targeted as a specific therapeutic approach in the development of a disease‐modifying OA drug.
Biochemical markers of bone turnover associated with calcium supplementation in children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: Results of a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled intervention trial
Authors: Carrasco Ruy , Lovell Daniel J. , Giannini Edward H. , Henderson Carol J. , Huang Bin , Kramer Sandy , Ranz Julie , Heubi James , Glass David
Published: November 2008

Objective

To determine the effects of calcium supplementation on bone physiology in corticosteroid‐free children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) by measuring serum and urinary bone‐related hormones, minerals, and markers of bone formation and resorption.

Methods

In this double‐blind trial, patients were randomized to receive daily oral supplementation with 1,000 mg of calcium and 400 IU of vitamin D or with placebo and 400 IU of vitamin D for 24 months. The effect of calcium supplementation on bone physiology was determined periodically using markers of bone turnover.

Results

One hundred ninety‐eight patients met the inclusion criteria and were followed up in the study. At baseline, there were no differences in markers of bone turnover between the groups. Patients with ≤4 joints with active disease had higher serum levels of calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH). Calcium‐treated patients with ≤4 joints with active disease had lower levels of osteocalcin (OC). At followup, levels of 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3, PTH, OC, and urine phosphorus were lower in the group receiving calcium supplementation. Hypercalciuria, as determined by the urinary calcium‐to‐creatinine ratio, was not noted in 24‐hour urine studies.

Conclusion

Levels of markers of bone physiology were significantly decreased in children with JRA receiving calcium supplementation. The physiologic changes were noted as early as 12 months into calcium supplementation. The hypercalciuria noted on spot testing of the urinary calcium‐to‐creatinine ratio was not demonstrated on further evaluation, nor did it lead to renal pathology. These findings suggest that the calcium supplementation met physiologic needs and caused an increased calcium loss in urine.
Increased number and function of FoxP3 regulatory T cells during experimental arthritis
Authors: Monte Kristen , Wilson Christina , Shih Fei F.
Published: November 2008

Objective

CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells are critical regulators of autoimmunity. Yet the number of Treg cells is paradoxically increased in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, and Treg cells show variable activity in human studies. The objective of this study was to characterize the expansion and function of Treg cells during the initiation and progression of experimental arthritis.

Methods

To unequivocally identify Treg cells, we crossed FoxP3gfp mice with K/BxN mice to generate arthritic mice in which Treg cells express green fluorescence protein. We examined the expansion and function of Treg cells and effector T (Teff) cells during different stages of arthritis, using flow cytometry and cell proliferation analyses.

Results

In K/BxN mice, thymic selection of KRN T cells resulted in an enrichment of forkhead box P3 (FoxP3)–positive Treg cells. Treg cell numbers increased during arthritis, with significant increases in spleens and draining lymph nodes, indicating selective tropism to sites of disease. In contrast to the in vitro unresponsiveness of Treg cells when cultured alone, substantial proportions of Treg cells proliferated in both nonarthritic and arthritic mice. However, they also underwent greater apoptosis, thereby maintaining equilibrium with Teff cells. Similarly, enhanced Treg cell–suppressive activity during arthritis was offset by greater resistance by their Teff cell counterparts and antigen‐presenting cells.

Conclusion

In this well‐established model of RA, the interplay of Teff cells and Treg cells in K/BxN mice recapitulated many features of the human disease. We demonstrated an ordered expansion of Treg cells during arthritis and dynamic changes in Treg cell and Teff cell functions. By elucidating factors that govern Treg cell and Teff cell development in K/BxNgfp mice, we will gain insight into the pathophysiology of and develop novel therapeutics for human RA.
Antifibroblast antibodies in systemic sclerosis induce fibroblasts to produce profibrotic chemokines, with partial exploitation of toll‐like receptor 4
Authors: Fineschi Serena , Goffin Laurence , Rezzonico Roger , Cozzi Franco , Dayer Jean‐Michel , Meroni Pier Luigi , Chizzolini Carlo
Published: November 2008

Objective

Previous studies have revealed the presence of IgG antifibroblast antibodies (AFAs) capable of binding to the surface of fibroblasts in systemic sclerosis (SSc) sera. Since chemokines may directly or indirectly affect the development of fibrosis, this study was undertaken to investigate the production of chemokines induced by AFAs in fibroblasts, and to characterize the signaling pathways and surface molecules involved.

Methods

AFA‐positive and AFA‐negative IgG were tested on fibroblasts. Chemokine messenger RNA expression was screened by microarray and quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. Production of CCL2, CXCL8, and CXCL10 proteins was assessed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Pharmacologic inhibitors were used to study signal transduction, with results assessed by Western blotting and immunofluorescence analysis. Fibroblasts with defective expression of Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) and anti‐TLR monoclonal antibodies (mAb) were used to assess AFA specificity.

Results

In human fibroblasts, AFA‐positive IgG induced the preferential transcription of chemokines with profibrotic and proangiogenic potential, including, but not exclusively, CCL2, CXCL1, CXCL8, CKLF, and ECGF1, which were distinctly different from those induced by interferon‐γ. Levels of CCL2 and CXCL8 proteins were increased in AFA‐stimulated fibroblast culture supernatants. AFA binding to fibroblasts resulted in concomitant activation of ERK‐1/2, c‐Jun, and NF‐κB. CCL2 production was sensitive to inhibition of both proteasome and JNK, while CXCL8 production was sensitive only to inhibition of proteasome. AFAs failed to up‐regulate CCL2 expression in TLR‐4–deficient fibroblasts but not in TLR‐6– or TLR‐2–deficient fibroblasts. Moreover, anti–TLR‐4 mAb, but not anti–TLR‐2 mAb, partially inhibited the production of CCL2 induced by AFAs in human fibroblasts.

Conclusion

Autoantibodies that bind to the surface of fibroblasts may contribute to the pathogenesis of SSc by up‐regulating the fibroblast production of profibrotic and proangiogenic chemokines, in a proteasome‐ and TLR‐4–dependent manner.
A survey of bioengineering research in Canada‐2007
Authors: Daugulis Andrew J.
Published: December 2008

Research activity in bioengineering at Canadian universities has been surveyed. Details were provided by chemical engineering departments in response to a common request for information on activities by individual researchers and for key publications. The information provided has been grouped by topics within the broad theme of “Bioengineering,” and contributions from individual departments have been summarized within these topics. Although many aspects of bioengineering research are being pursued in Canada, it would appear as though environmental biotechnology, biomaterials, and tissue/cell culture are the most active areas under investigation.
Simpler noninstrumented batch and semicontinuous cultures provide mammalian cell kinetic data comparable to continuous and perfusion cultures
Authors: Henry Olivier , Kwok Ezra , Piret James M.
Published: December 2008

Perfusion culture optimization in multiple noninstrumented small‐scale flasks allows reduced expense and time associated with process development. These cultures normally use a different process mode because at small scales it is not practical to retain the cells for medium perfusion. In this work, the kinetics of growth, nutrient consumption, metabolite, and product formation were compared in spinner cultures operated in batch, semicontinuous, chemostat, and perfusion modes. Fed‐batch was also included to provide an added comparison. Using logistic fitting for more reliable specific rate estimates in transient conditions, the growth phase of batch cultures predicted similar kinetics to fed‐batch and continuous processes. For daily medium exchange rates up to 50%, the semicontinuous mode also predicted the perfusion process kinetics. Differences between the chemostat and semicontinuous culture results were only observed at higher exchange rates with the greatest daily culture perturbation. Overall, the batch or semicontinuous cultures were shown to readily provide results similar to the far more complex to operate chemostat or perfusion cultures.
Change detection of gravel mining on riverbeds from the multi‐temporal and high‐spatial‐resolution formosat‐2 imagery
Authors: Liu Cheng‐Chien , Shieh Chjeng‐Lun , Wu Chiao‐An , Shieh Ming‐Lin
Published: December 2008

Gravel mining from river channels is conducted in many countries around the world, yet ground‐based monitoring of these activities requires considerable manpower and is not very effective. Therefore, innovative and effective approaches to monitoring gravel mining are urgently required. Deployed as a high spatial resolution sensor in a daily revisit orbit, Formosat‐2 has proved to be an ideal satellite for site surveillance. Using one known event of gravel mining in the Tseng‐Wen River, Taiwan, between March 2004 and March 2005, we analysed nine Formosat‐2 images taken during this period to summarize three characteristics of gravel mining in the images. Based on these characteristics, a standard procedure for processing Formosat‐2 imagery to detect gravel mining is proposed. This procedure is validated against ground truthing collected by an unmanned helicopter flying at low altitude. The evolution of this gravel‐mining event in the Tseng‐Wen River is described by processing all historical Formosat‐2 imagery using the proposed procedure. This standard procedure has been successfully incorporated into the Formosat‐2 automatic image processing system and has been used to monitor gravel mining on a daily‐basis. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distinctive molecular signaling in triple‐negative breast cancer cell death triggered by hexadecylphosphocholine (miltefosine)
Authors: Chakrabandhu Krittalak , Huault Sébastien , Hueber Anne-Odile
Published: November 2008

This study describes the molecular signaling involved in the different cell death modes of triple‐negative breast cancer cells induced by hexadecylphosphocholine (HePC/miltefosine), a clinically relevant anticancer alkylphosphocholine. We found that the HePC treatment triggers cell‐type‐dependent apoptotic and non‐apoptotic cell death processes. Moreover, the expression level of the apoptosis activator Fas, and Fas/Fas ligand signaling capacity are not attributing factors for the preference toward apoptosis. Using Fas siRNA and overexpression approaches we establish that Fas is not a pro‐apoptotic factor but a contributor to cell protection in HePC‐apoptosis‐sensitive cells. The insight in the multi‐modal anticancer capability of HePC in triple‐negative breast cancer cells may facilitate the targeted design of therapeutic strategies against triple‐negative breast cancers.
Compulsive buying: a field study of mood variability during acquisition episodes
Authors: Kellett Stephen , Totterdell Peter
Published: December 2008

Empirical investigations of mood variability during actual and ‘real time’ shopping episodes are absent from the compulsive-buying (CB) literature. A field experiment was therefore conducted with a participant meeting desired clinical and research requirements for identifying CB and a control subject for comparison purposes. Each participant went on four shopping trips and rated various parameters of mood and self-perception prior to, during and after each shopping trip. Each phase (i.e. pre-shop, shop and post-shop) lasted for 1.5 h, with ratings of mood and self-evaluation taken every 10 min. Results indicate that, although shopping was a guilty pleasure for the CB participant, there were more similarities than differences apparent in terms of mood and self-evaluation between the CB and control participant. The CB participant experienced significant levels of self-dislike during the shopping episodes. In terms of the comparisons between the pre-, during and post-shopping phases, the first 40 minutes of actual shopping seemed to be particularly arousing/exciting for the CB participant. The study is discussed in terms of key methodological requirements for increased validity and reliability in studying CB phenomena and the range of indicated possible cognitive and behavioural interventions.
Cloud tomography: Role of constraints and a new algorithm
Authors: Huang Dong , Liu Yangang , Wiscombe Warren
Published: December 2008

Retrieving spatial distributions of cloud liquid water content from limited‐angle emission data (passive microwave cloud tomography) is ill‐posed, and a small inaccuracy in the data and/or numerical treatments may result in a large error in the retrieval. Proper handling of the ill‐posedness is an ongoing challenge to the atmospheric remote sensing community. In this paper we first analyze the major regularization methods that each apply a single but different constraint to their retrievals and extend these methods to allow for multiple constraints. We then develop a new iterative algorithm that can also incorporate complex physical constraints with great flexibility. To understand the influences of different constraints on the retrievals, we use the new iterative algorithm with various combinations of constraints to retrieve a stratocumulus cloud simulated with a large‐eddy‐simulation model. For this relatively homogeneous cloud case, the standard least squares method with no constraints, as expected, performs very poorly, and yields a very large retrieval error, making this method nearly useless. Adding a nonnegativity constraint reduces the mean retrieval error by a factor of 6 but the internal structure of the cloud is still not reproduced in the retrieval. Adding a smoothness constraint dramatically improves the retrieved spatial structure of the cloud, and brings the mean error down further, although the retrieved cloud top edges are still considerably blurred. Further adding the so‐called double‐side constraint (based on scaled adiabatic profiles) produces the best result; the retrieval faithfully reproduces the cloud water structure with a mean retrieval error of only one third of that of the nonnegativity and smoothness constrained method.
Lorcaserin (APD356), a Selective 5‐HT2CAgonist, Reduces Body Weight in Obese Men and Women
Authors: Smith Steven R. , Prosser Warren A. , Donahue David J. , Morgan Michael E. , Anderson Christen M. , Shanahan William R. ,   APD356‐004 Study Group
Published: December 2008

Lorcaserin (APD356) is a potent, selective 5‐HT2Cagonist with ∼15‐fold and 100‐fold selectivity vs. 5‐HT2Aand 5‐HT2Breceptors, respectively. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of lorcaserin for weight reduction in obese patients during a 12‐week period. The randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐arm study enrolled 469 men and women between ages 18 and 65 and with BMI 30–45 kg/m2. Patients received placebo, lorcaserin 10 mg q.d., lorcaserin 15 mg q.d., or lorcaserin 10 mg b.i.d. for 12 weeks, and were counseled to maintain their usual diet and activity. The primary end point was change in weight from baseline to day 85 by completer analysis. Safety analyses included echocardiograms at Screening and day 85/study exit. Lorcaserin was associated with progressive weight loss of 1.8 kg, 2.6 kg, and 3.6 kg at 10 mg q.d., 15 mg q.d., and 10 mg b.i.d., respectively, compared to placebo weight loss of 0.3 kg (P< 0.001 for each group). Similar results were seen by intent‐to‐treat last observation‐carried forward (ITT‐LOCF) analysis. The proportions of completers achieving ≥5% of initial body weight were 12.8, 19.5, 31.2, and 2.3% in the 10 mg q.d., 15 mg q.d., 10 mg b.i.d., and placebo groups, respectively. The most frequent adverse events (AEs) were transient headache, nausea, and dizziness. Echocardiograms showed no apparent drug‐related effects on heart valves or pulmonary artery pressure (PAP). Lorcaserin was well tolerated and efficacious for weight reduction in this 12‐week study. Longer‐term trials employing behavior modification will be needed to more fully assess its safety and efficacy.
Modification of emission of CdTe nanocrystals by the local field of Langmuir–Blodgett colloidal photonic crystals
Authors: Romanov Sergei G. , Bardosova Maria , Povey Ian M. , Torres C. M. Sotomayor , Pemble Martyn E. , Gaponik Nikolai , Eychmüller Alexander
Published: November 2008

A light source on the surface of a slab of 2+1-dimensional photonic crystal has been prepared by the Langmuir–Blodgett deposition of a colloidal crystal on top of a thin film containing CdTe nanocrystals. The directional enhancement of the light emission intensity in the spectral range of the photonic bandgap has been revealed through the comparative examination of the angle-resolved transmission, diffraction, and photoluminescence spectra of the prepared structures. Changes in the emission spectrum have been tentatively explained in terms of the acceleration of the radiative recombination due to the increase in the local field strength at photonic bandgap resonance and changes in the emission diagram—as arising from the wavelength dependence of the topology of the local field pattern.
Quantitative model for near-field scanning microwave microscopy: Application to metrology of thin film dielectrics
Authors: Reznik Alexander N. , Talanov Vladimir V.
Published: November 2008

We have experimentally verified a recently proposed theoretical model for near-field microwave microscopy of multilayer media. The model addresses a near-field microwave probe as an electrically small antenna with a Gaussian-like current distribution that has a single characteristic length scale on the order of the probe size. Electrodynamic response of an antenna is calculated using Green functions in the form of integral transforms for electric and magnetic fields (both quasistatic and propagating), which are generated by a pointlike dipole. Experimental data were obtained at 4 GHz using a near-field scanning microwave microscope with aperture size of ∼5 μm for a set of six SiO2 films with thickness ranging from 0.1 to 1.5 μm. For each sample the probe resonant frequency was both measured and simulated as a function of the tip-sample distance, and good agreement between the theory and experimental data was observed. It was found that the model is capable of determining thin film dielectric constant with accuracy of ∼5%–7%.
Ground state potential energy surfaces and bound states of M–He dimers (M=Cu,Ag,Au): A theoretical investigation
Authors: Cargnoni Fausto , Kuś Tomasz , Mella Massimo , Bartlett Rodney J.
Published: November 2008

We present an ab initio investigation on the ground state interaction potentials [potential energy surface (PES)] between helium and the group 11 metal atoms: copper, silver, and gold. To the best of our knowledge, there are no previous theoretical PESs proposed for Cu–He and Au–He, and a single one for Ag–He [Z. J. Jakubek and M. Takami, Chem. Phys. Lett. 265, 653 (1997)], computed about 10 years ago at MP2 level and significantly improved by our study. To reach a high degree of accuracy in the determination of the three M–He potentials (M=Cu,Ag,Au), we performed extensive series of test computations to establish the appropriate basis set, the theoretical method, and the computational scheme for these systems. For each M–He dimer we computed the PES at the CCSD(T) level of theory, starting from the reference unrestricted Hartree–Fock wave function. We described the inner shells with relativistic small core pseudopotentials, and we adopted high quality basis sets for the valence electrons. We also performed CCSDT computations in a limited set of M–He internuclear distances, adopting a medium-sized basis set, such as to define for each dimer a CCSD(T) to CCSDT correction term and to improve further the quality of the CCSD(T) interaction potentials. The Cu–He complex has minimum interaction energy (Emin) of −28.4 μhartree at the internuclear distance of 4.59 Å (Rmin), and the short-range repulsive wall starts at 4.04 Å (RE=0). Quite interestingly, the PES of Ag–He is more attractive (Emin=−33.8 μhartree) but presents nearly the same Rmin and RE=0 values, 4.60 and 4.04 Å, respectively. The interaction potential for Au–He is markedly deeper and shifted at shorter distances as compared to the lighter complexes, with Emin=−69.6 μhartree, Rmin=4.09 Å and RE=0=3.60 Å. As a first insight in the structure of M–Hen aggregates, we determined the rovibrational structure of the three M–He dimers. The Cu–He and Ag–He potentials support just few rotational excitations, while the Au–He PES admits also a bound vibrational excitation.
Formation and evolution of magnetic nanoparticles in borate glass simultaneously doped with Fe and Mn oxides
Authors: Kliava J. , Edelman I. , Ivanova O. , Ivantsov R. , Bayukov O. , Petrakovskaja E. , Zaikovskiy V. , Bruckental I. , Yeshurun Y. , Stepanov S.
Published: November 2008

Evolution of the phase state of paramagnetic additions at various stages of synthesis and subsequent thermal treatment of glasses of the system Al2O3–K2O–B2O3 simultaneously doped with Fe2O3 and MnO is studied by means of a combination of experimental techniques: Faraday rotation (FR), electron magnetic resonance (EMR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Mössbauer spectroscopy, and magnetic measurements. Both FR and EMR show that magnetically ordered clusters occur already at the first stage of the glass preparation. In particular, for the ratio of the Fe and Mn oxides in the charge close to 3:2, fine magnetic nanoparticles are formed with characteristics similar to those of manganese ferrite. By computer simulating the EMR spectra at variable temperatures, a superparamagnetic nature of these nanoparticles is confirmed and their mean diameter is estimated as approximately 3.2 nm. In the thermally treated glasses larger magnetic nanoparticles are formed, giving rise to FR spectra, characteristic of magnetically ordered systems, and the EMR spectra different from those in as-prepared glasses but also showing superparamagnetic narrowing. The Mössbauer spectroscopy corroborates the manganese ferrite structure of the nanoparticles and indicates their coexistence in the ferrimagnetic and superparamagnetic states. The TEM shows the presence of polydisperse nanoparticles on the background of the glass matrix, and electron diffraction of a selected region containing larger particles indicates a crystal structure close to that of MnFe2O4. Energy-dispersive atomic x-ray spectra confirm that the major part of Fe and Mn introduced to the glass composition is gathered in the particles, with the concentration ratio close to 2:1, characteristic of bulk MnFe2O4. Magnetic hysteresis loops of samples subjected to an additional thermal treatment demonstrate a strong increase in the coercive force, remnant magnetization, and high-field magnetic susceptibility with temperature decrease. The consistent results obtained using various techniques demonstrate that the formation of nanoparticles with characteristics close to those of MnFe2O4 confers to these glasses magnetic and magneto-optical properties typical of substances possessing magnetic order.
Delocalization errors in density functionals and implications for main-group thermochemistry
Authors: Johnson Erin R. , Mori-Sánchez Paula , Cohen Aron J. , Yang Weitao
Published: November 2008

The difficulty of approximate density functionals in describing the energetics of Diels–Alder reactions and dimerization of aluminum complexes is analyzed. Both of these reaction classes involve formation of cyclic or bicyclic products, which are found to be underbound by the majority of functionals considered. We present a consistent view of these results from the perspective of delocalization error. This error causes approximate functionals to give too low energy for delocalized densities or too high energy for localized densities, as in the cyclic and bicyclic reaction products. This interpretation allows us to understand better a wide range of errors in main-group thermochemistry obtained with popular density functionals. In general, functionals with minimal delocalization error should be used for theoretical studies of reactions where there is a loss of extended conjugation or formation of highly branched, cyclic, and cagelike molecules.
Synergic effect of carbon black and short carbon fiber on shape memory polymer actuation by electricity
Authors: Leng Jinsong , Lv Haibao , Liu Yanju , Du Shanyi
Published: November 2008

This paper presents a study on the effect of carbon black (CB) and short carbon fibers (SCFs) on shape memory polymer (SMP) actuation by applying electric current. The coexistence of CB and SCF electrically conductive networks, supporting each other, resulting in significant improvement of electrical properties, was supported by optical microscopy, while the roles of particulate and fibrous fillers were distinguished by scanning electron microscopy. In sequence, the volume resistivity curves of one filler systems and two fillers systems were figured out and compared. Moreover, experimental results substantiated that the actuation voltage of two-filler SMP composites’ shape recovery was prominently lower in comparison with that of one-filler systems at the same filler content. Additional, the response of glass transition temperature (Tg) and thermomechanical properties to filler content and two fillers’ synergic effect were characterized and illuminated experimentally.
Surface potential of n- and p-type GaN measured by Kelvin force microscopy
Authors: Barbet S. , Aubry R. , di Forte-Poisson M.-A. , Jacquet J.-C. , Deresmes D. , Mélin T. , Théron D.
Published: November 2008

n - and p-type GaN epitaxial layers grown by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition with different doping levels have been characterized by Kelvin probe force microscopy (KFM). To investigate the surface states of GaN beyond instrumental and environmental fluctuations, a KFM calibration procedure using a gold-plated Ohmic contact as a reference has been introduced, and the reproducibility of the KFM measurements has been evaluated. Results show that the Fermi level is pinned for n- and p-type GaN over the available doping ranges, and found 1.34±0.15eV below the conduction band and 1.59±0.18eV above the valence band, respectively.
Dielectric response of BaZrO3/BaTiO3 and SrTiO3/BaZrO3 superlattices
Authors: Choudhury P. Roy , Krupanidhi S. B.
Published: December 2008

Dielectric materials with high tunability, low loss, and desired range of permittivity are an attractive class of materials for a variety of applications in microwave components such as tunable filters, phase shifters, antennas, etc. In this article, we have investigated the low frequency dielectric properties of BaZrO3/BaTiO3 and SrTiO3/BaZrO3 superlattices of varying modulation periods for the potential application toward electrically tunable devices. The dielectric response of the superlattices as a function of temperature revealed remarkable stability for both types of superlattices, with no observed dielectric anomalies within that range. Dielectric losses were also nominally low with minimal variation within the measured temperature range. Sufficiently high tunability of ∼40% was observed for the BaZrO3/BaTiO3 superlattices at the lowest individual layer thicknesses. In comparison, the SrTiO3/BaZrO3 superlattices showed a minimum tunability for lowest period structures. It showed maximum tunability of ∼20% at 10 kHz and room temperature at an intermediate dimension of 3.85 nm periodicity superlattice. The tunability value degraded with increasing as well as decreasing periodicities for the SrTiO3/BaZrO3 superlattices. The dielectric response has been explained on the basis of size effects, interlayer coupling between dissimilar materials, domain contribution, and depolarizing electric fields.
Theory of exciton-polariton lasing at room temperature in ZnO microcavities
Authors: Johne R. , Solnyshkov D. D. , Malpuech G.
Published: November 2008

We use the semiclassical Boltzmann equations to describe the exciton-polariton relaxation in a bulk ZnO microcavity at room temperature. We present kinetic phase diagrams which report the lasing threshold versus the main sample parameters, such as the polariton lifetime or the value of the Rabi splitting. We find that the polariton laser is operating close to the thermodynamic equilibrium in most cases which makes advantageous the use of microcavities showing very large Rabi splittings as it is the case in ZnO structures. We find that room temperature polariton lasing could be observed in the samples presently available.
Nonperturbative models of intermittency in edge turbulence
Authors: Anderson Johan , Kim Eun-jin
Published: December 2008

A theory of the probability distribution function (PDF) tails of the blob density in plasma edge turbulence is provided. A simplified model of the fast convective radial transport is used. The theoretically predicted PDF tails corroborate earlier measurements of edge transport, further confirming the strongly non-Gaussian feature of edge transport. It is found that increasing the cross-sectional spatial scale length (Lx and Ly) of the blob results in larger transport, whereas increasing the toroidal scale length (Lz) decreases the PDF. The results imply that the PDF decreases for larger blob speed vb.
Revisiting atomic force microscopy force spectroscopy sensitivity for single molecule studies
Authors: Naeem Shahid , Liu Yu , Nie Heng-Yong , Lau W. M. , Yang Jun
Published: December 2008

Recently, the rapid advances in quantitative biology and polymer science have led to the atomic force microscope (AFM) being extensively employed for single-molecule force spectroscopy. Deflection sensitivity, a critical factor in single molecule force spectroscopy, is changed due to the change in bending shape of AFM cantilever when a single molecule is attached to the AFM cantilever tip. We quantitatively study this variation in the deflection sensitivity by modeling the single molecule as an AFM tip coupled spring. We further propose correction factors for the deflection sensitivity in various cases of single molecule studies. Since many single biomolecule studies are conducted in aqueous environment, we outline and include the complications induced by the refractive index discontinuity at the air-glass-liquid medium interfaces, laser spot size, and spot location on the cantilever. Finally we present correction factor charts for easy calculation of correction factors for a wide variety of stiffness of single molecules.
Characterization of complementary electric field coupled resonant surfaces
Authors: Hand Thomas H. , Gollub Jonah , Sajuyigbe Soji , Smith David R. , Cummer Steven A.
Published: November 2008

We present angle-resolved free-space transmission and reflection measurements of a surface composed of complementary electric inductive-capacitive (CELC) resonators. By measuring the reflection and transmission coefficients of a CELC surface with different polarizations and particle orientations, we show that the CELC only responds to in-plane magnetic fields. This confirms the Babinet particle duality between the CELC and its complement, the electric field coupled LC resonator. Characterization of the CELC structure serves to expand the current library of resonant elements metamaterial designers can draw upon to make unique materials and surfaces.
Spin-glass-like behavior caused by Mn-rich Mn(Ga)As nanoclusters in GaAs
Authors: Chang C. H. , Hong T. M.
Published: November 2008

We simulate the indirect exchange interaction between Mn-rich Mn(Ga)As nanoclusters in GaAs by analytical means. In contrast to the conventional Ruderman–Kittel–Kasuya–Yosida (RKKY) formula, which considers the mediation by the carriers in the medium, we also include the contribution from those inside the clusters. Since the carrier concentration is higher in the clusters, this modification allows the RKKY oscillation to change its sign. Consequently, while the previous approach only favors ferromagnetism for this system, an antiferromagnetic coupling is in fact possible. Since the Mn-rich Mn(Ga)As nanoclusters are naturally formed and bound to have different sizes, their spin orientation is likely to be frustrated due to mixed preferences from different neighbors. We argue that this is likely the source of the spin-glass-like behavior that plagues this system. By tuning the size and narrowing its distribution, normal ferromagnetism can be restored with a Curie temperature higher than previously thought.
Localized heating in nanoscale Pt constrictions measured using blackbody radiation emission
Authors: Ward Daniel R. , Halas Naomi J. , Natelson Douglas
Published: November 2008

Using thermal emission microscopy, we investigate heating in Pt nanowires before and during electromigration. The wires are observed to reach temperatures in excess of 1000 K. This is beyond the thermal decomposition threshold for many organic molecules of interest for single molecule measurements with electromigrated nanogaps. Blackbody spectra of the hot Pt wires are measured and found to agree well with finite element modeling simulations of the electrical and thermal transport.
Organic/inorganic hybrid complementary circuits based on pentacene and amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide transistors
Authors: Na Jong H. , Kitamura M. , Arakawa Y.
Published: November 2008

Complementary inverters composed of pentacene for the p-channel thin-film transistors (TFTs) and amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide for the n-channel TFTs have been fabricated on glass substrates. The p- and n-channel TFTs have field-effect mobilities of 0.6 and 17.1 cm2/V s, respectively, and inverters yield a high gain of ∼56. Complementary five-stage ring oscillator exhibits a good dynamic operation with an output frequency of 200 Hz at 10 V. Since both channel layers are stable in air and can be formed by room temperature deposition process, the hybrid circuits are applicable to flexible electronic devices.
Influence of an interface domain wall on spin-valve giant magnetoresistance
Authors: Hauet T. , Montaigne F. , Hehn M. , Henry Y. , Mangin S.
Published: December 2008

The magnetotransport properties of a Gd40Fe60∕Gd10Fe90∕Cu∕Gd40Fe60 spin-valve based on amorphous ferrimagnetic GdFe layers are reported. The Gd40Fe60∕Gd10Fe90 bilayer is an exchange spring structure that allows an interfacial domain wall to be controlled by an applied field. As this domain wall is nucleated, compressed, and annihilated, changes in the spin-valve current-in-plane magnetoresistance are observed. After separating the various magnetoresistance contributions we could deduce the effect of the interface domain wall on both the giant and anisotropic magnetoresistances.