bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vacuum Ultraviolet Reflectance Spectra of RDP and RDA
Authors: Matsumoto Setsuko , Fujisawa Masami , Namatame Hirofumi , Suga Shigemasa
Published: March 2014

Reflectance spectra of RDP and RDA are studied in the VUV region with polarized synchrotron radiation. The optical constants are evaluated by the Kramers-Kronig analysis. The peaks in the low energy region are interpreted on the ground of molecular orbitals of PO4
3- and AsO4
3- ions. The peaks above 12 eV are compared with the absorption peaks of alkali halides, providing information on energy levels of Rb+. The temperature dependence of the reflectance spectrum of RDP has shown an abrupt change at the transition temperature.
Heat Capacities and Phase Transitions of the (NH4)xRb1-xH2PO4 System
Authors: Moriya Keiichi , Matsuo Takasuke , Suga Hiroshi , Terauchi Hikaru
Published: March 2014

Heat capacities of the solid solution system (NH4)
x
Rb1-x
H2PO4 with x=0, 0.70, 0.74, 0.79 and 0.89, were measured with adiabatic calorimeters. The antiferroelectric ordering occurs in two steps for x=0.79 and 0.89. No distinct anomaly due to phase transition was observed in the heat capacities of x=0.70 and 0.74. However, slight excess heat capacites were found to exist over the normal lattice contribution which was calculated by assuming the additivity of those of both neat crystals. The excess heat capacity can be correlated with the anomalous variation of the lattice constants and the dielectric permittivities of the corresponding system. These effects can be considered to reflect the development of local ordering in their proton arrangements.
Low Temperature Dielectric Properties of SrTiO3 Glass-Ceramics
Authors: Swartz S. L. , Bhalla A. S. , Cross L. E.
Published: March 2014

The low temperature dielectric properties of a particular SrTiO3-containing glass-ceramic have been investigated. This glass-ceramic exhibited a dispersive dielectric constant peak over the temperature range of 85 to 100 K and relaxation type loss peaks at temperatures near 50 and 100 K. Arrhenius plots of dielectric loss data gave activation energies of 0.054 and 0.17 eV for the lower (50 K) and higher (100 K) temperature loss mechanisms. The higher temperature loss mechanism was further analyzed by the Cole-Cole method, and a relaxation strength (Ks-K∞) of 41 was calculated. The dielectric constant peak was related to the higher temperature loss mechanism, and it was proposed that ferroic phenomena were responsible.
Preparation and Properties of (Pb, La)TiO3 Epitaxial Thin Films by Multi-Target Sputtering
Authors: Adachi Hideaki , Mitsuyu Tsuneo , Yamazaki Osamu , Wasa Kiyotaka
Published: March 2014

A reactive multi-target sputtering method was applied to prepare epitaxial (Pb, La)TiO3 thin films on sapphire. The individual control of each sputtering target revealed that the incident Pb content remarkably influenced the quality of thin film. The strict control of (Pb, La)TiO3 composition was carried out and strong electro-optic effect was observed in (Pb0.74La0.26)Ti0.94 O3 thin film.
Acoustic Microscopy to Ferroelectric Materials
Authors: Kojima Seiji
Published: March 2014

Acoustic microscopy has been developed for ferroelectric materials. The observations of a SAW filter, domain wall and grains have been successfully done. To analyze the contrast caused by the defocusing effect, the V
(z) curves have been measured at some appropriate points on the objects. The investigation of anisotropy has been made by utilizing the line focus lens and the propagation characteristics of SAW velocity of a BNN crystal have been determined. The acoustic micrographs of various materials have been shown.
Piezoelectric Actuator for Scanning Tunneling Microscopy
Authors: Okayama Shigeo , Bando Hiroshi , Tokumoto Hiroshi , Kajimura Koji
Published: March 2014

A piezoelectric element possessing a function of three-dimensional actuation for scanning tunneling microscopy is proposed. The characteristics at low frequency are accurately measured by using Talystep. The piezoelectric element responds to small voltage signals with a high resolution of the order of 0.1 nm. The z-axis displacement accompanied by x- and y-axis actuations can be completely compensated by feedback of actuation signals. In order to confirm the actuation properties, specimen scanning in scanning electron microscope is successfully attemped by using the three-dimensional piezoelectric element in place of electron beam scanning by deflection coils.
Modulation Type Pyroelectric Infrared Sensor Using LiTaO3 Single Crystal
Authors: Shibata Kenichi , Takeuchi Kousuke , Tanaka Toshiharu , Yokoo Toshiaki , Nakano Shoichi , Kuwano Yukinori
Published: March 2014

A pyroelectric infrared sensor with a solid state chopper was developed. Ordinarily, the incident rays of pyroelectric IR sensors must be periodically interrupted by means of a chopper, which consists of a motor and a revolving plate, in order to generate a continuous output voltage for temperature measurement. We have developed a new pyroelectric infrared sensor structure by replacing the chopper with a solid state setup consisting of a bimorph vibrator and a grate-type slit plate.
Automatic Optical Fiber Polarization Control System Using Multilayer Piezoelectric Actuators
Authors: Honmou Hiroshi , Ishikawa Roh , Takahashi Sadayuki
Published: March 2014

An automatic optical fiber polarization control system has been developed. The system consists of two identical polarization control devices using tiny multilayer piezoelectric actuators, which compress the single mode fiber from both sides. The polarization control devices have low insertion loss of less than 0.1 dB, high extinction ratio of about 18 dB and low half-wave voltage of about 30 V.
Printing Flight Hammer Using Multilayer Piezoelectric Actuator
Authors: Ota Takashi , Uchikawa Tadao , Mizutani Takayuki
Published: March 2014

It has been found that a multilayer piezoelectric actuator can produce impact power. The impact energy was measured by experiments using a steel ball under varying experimental conditions. For example, the multilayer piezoelectric actuator of a rectangular prism with a 2×3 mm section and 18 mm height can impel a 4 mm diameter steel ball, whose mass is 0.25×10-3 kg, to a 0.27 m height. This energy is equivalent to 0.66 mJ. This impact energy is applicable to a dot matrix printing hammer. A trial model of a dot matrix printing hammer using this impact energy, as a method of flying an armature to a platen, has been manufactured in a simple mechanism.
A Piezoelectric Fan Using PZT Ceramics
Authors: Yorinaga Muneo , Makino Daisuke , Kawaguchi Kiyoshi , Naito Masataka
Published: March 2014

A fan consisting of a piezoelectric bimorph tipped with an additional flexible blade is introduced. Since the flexible blade resonates in a large amplitude but the bimorph vibrates in a very small amplitude, the fan can supply sufficient and constant air flow without any structural destruction for a long time. The fan case has two air outlets which are directed oppositely each other. The fan with such outlets can supply an air flow of 4 m3/hr at an applied voltage of 140 Vp–p.
Another type of a piezoelectric fan using multi-layered PZT ceramic elements produced by a thick film printing technique is introduced. This fan is suitable for low voltage operation and it can supply an air flow of 1 m3/hr at an applied voltage of 17Vp–p.
Crystal Growth of Lithium Tetraborate (Li2B4O7)
Authors: Adachi Masatoshi , Shiosaki Tadashi , Kawabata Akira
Published: March 2014

A good quality single crystal of Li2B4O7, up to 23 mm in diameter and 80 mm in length, has been successfully grown at a crystal pulling rate of 1 mm/h and the seed rotation rate of 6 r.p.m. by an automatic diameter control (ADC) of the Czochralski method. This crystal was very transparent and colourless, and possessed large regions free of any optical in homogeneity. Macroscopic defects such as cores appeared in some growing crystals have been discussed. Cores generated in growing crystals largely depended on the crystal pulling rate, rapid temperature change during the crystal growth and purity of starting materials.
Electrostrictive and Third-Order Dielectric Constants of Lithium Niobate
Authors: Cho Yasuo , Yamanouchi Kazukiho
Published: March 2014

All 8 electrostrictive and all 3 third-order dielectric constants of lithium niobate have been determined. Measurements for the electrostrictive constants have been made by measuring electric capacity in selected direction when the directed static stresses were applied to the crystal. And the third-order dielectric constants have been calculated from these measured electrostrictive constants and the measured capacitance as a function of the applied static electric field. All of these measurements have been done at 15°C.
Photoinduced Birefringence Change of Fe-doped Lithium Niobate Crystal
Authors: Shimazu Masaji , Miyazawa Yasuto , Mori Yasumichi , Uesu Yoshiaki , Kobayashi Jinzo
Published: March 2014

For Fe-doped lithium niobate crystal (LN:Fe 0.1 wt%) grown by Czochralski technique, the effects of oxidation and reduction state were investigated on the photoinduced birefringence change by Ar-laser irradiation (488.0 nm). (1) A high accuracy apparatus for the measurement of the birefringence change has been developed (Sénarmont method). (2) In LN (undoped) the birefringence change is negligibly small (<10-6) regardless of the state of oxidation or reduction. (3) In LN:Fe the change is between 1.5×10-3 and 10-4. (4) It is possible to prepare a sample in which the change is still kept for long time even after stopping the irradiation, which is `oxidized LN:Fe.'
Dielectric Properties of Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)Ti(Ni1/2W1/2)O3 Ceramic
Authors: Kato Junichi , Yokotani Yoichiro , Nishida Masamitsu , Kawashima Shunichiro , Ouchi Hiromu
Published: March 2014

Dielectric properties of Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3–Pb(Ni1/2W1/2)O3 pseudo-ternary ceramics were studied. The ceramics could be sintered at 1050°C, exhibited high dielectric constant (15000∼20000) and high resistivity (1013Ω·cm, 27000 Ω·F). A small addition of MnO2 to these ceramics decreased the dissipation factor and caused a peculiar temperature dependence of dielectric constnt. The characteristics of multilayer chip capacitors made of these ceramics with Ag–Pd electrode are described.
Dielectric Properties of Modified Lead Zinc Niobate Ceramic
Authors: Furukawa Osamu , Yamashita Youhachi , Harata Mitsuo , Takahashi Takashi , Inagaki Katsumi
Published: March 2014

Crystal structures, dielectric properties and electrical resistivities for partially substituted lead zinc niobate [Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3] ceramic were investigated. This ceramic, sintered at 1000–1050°C, was composed mainly of perovskite phase and showed a high dielectric constant (3500–5000) and a high resistivity (approximately 1013Ω·cm) when partial substitutions of the Pb site by Ba or Sr and the (Zn1/3Nb2/3) site by Ti in the Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 were carried out. The reason why the perovskite phase was stable in the sintered body is explained qualitatively by introducing the concepts of an electronegativity difference and a tolerance factor.
Measurements of Photostimulated Electron Emission from Superconducting Metals at 9–300 K
Authors: Owaki Shigehiro , Katagiri Kazumune , Okada Toichi , Nakahara Sumio , Sugihara Kiyoshi
Published: March 2014

PSEE measurements for superconducting and other type metals were carried out between about 9 and 300 K. Electron emission decreased upon lowering the sample temperature to that of liquid N2 and showed two peaks in the course of the temperature change. One was attributed to residual gas adsorption and the other to sample deformation. PSEE yield did not change at the transition between the normal and the superconducting states.
Relationship between Organic Thin Films and Photostimulated Exoelectron Emission
Authors: Mori Shigeyuki , Yamaguchi Kazuhiro
Published: March 2014

The effect of organic thin films on photostimulated exoelectron emission from cut aluminum was studied under the illumination of monochromatic visible light. The organic compounds used were n-octadecane, stearyl alcohol, stearyl amine, stearic acid and methyl stearate. Exoelectron emission from cut aluminum was observed at stimulation energies of 2.8–2.9 eV. The emission intensity decreased exponentially with the film thickness. The exoelectron emission threshold was affected not only by the film thickness but also by the film material. In the case of a multi-layered film composed of amine and acid, the emission behavior was affected by the film structure.
Optically-Thermostimulated Exoemission (OTSEE) at Low Temperatures from thin Layers of Vapours Cryocondensed on a Cold Substrate
Authors: Chrzanowski Jan , Sujak Bogdan
Published: March 2014

Results are given of measurements regarding optically thermostimulated electron emission (OTSEE) for two systems: (1) stainless steel (1H18N9T)–cryocondensed ethanol or methanol, and (2) copper–cryocondensed ethanol or
methanol. The measurements were performed in a vacuum of 10-4-10-5 Pa using the typical apparatus for lowtemperature exoelectron emission studies. Kinetic energy distributions of the emitted exoelectrons in the temperature range 65 to 200 K were determined using an electronic differentiation technique in a planar analyzer system. The observation demonstrated the occurrence of two peaks in the energetic spectrum of the emitted electrons at a temperature near the α-β methanol transition.
Fracto-Emission from Glass Fibre Reinforced Plastics at 170–200 K
Authors: Nakahara Sumio , Fujita Takeyoshi , Sugihara Kiyoshi , Owaki Shigehiro , Katagiri Kazumune , Nishiura Tetsuya , Okada Toichi
Published: March 2014

Tensile tests for glass-epoxy composite materials have been carried out at low temperatures in order to examine various relations among electron and acoustic emissions and the load-elongation curves of composite materials. Deformation and fracture processes are discussed on the basis of experimental results. The effects of the reinforcement direction on the materials are also examined.
Prospectives of Exoelectron Emission Dosimetry
Authors: Oberhofer M.
Published: March 2014

Earlier reproducibility problems encountered regarding potential exoelectron emission dosemeter materials nearly led to the discontinuation of the application of exoelectron emission for dosimetric purposes during the past few years.
Using new advanced methods in sample-preparation methods, these problems have been overcome for the most part with promising application possibilities of exoelectron emission measuring techniques, particularly for low-energy or high LET particle dosimetry at surfaces in ionizing radiation fields with strong dose-rate gradients and/or interfaces. Combined with simultaneous thermoluminescence measurements, thermally and optically stimulated exoelectron emission open new paths regarding the field of mixed radiation field dosimetry.
Dose Re-Assessment TSEE Measurements with BeO Thin-Film Detectors
Authors: Lesz J. , Kriegseis W. , Scharmann A.
Published: March 2014

The exposure of BeO thin-film TSEE detectors to UV light induced a photo-transfer (PT) of electrons from deep traps to shallow dosimetry traps, emptied by a primary TSEE readout. Thus additional PT-TSEE readouts are allowed. By this technique the dose of the primary applied irradiation can be reassessed. Spectral records reveal an intrinsic TSEE photo-excitation at a short UV wavelength (250 nm), appearing as background to PT-TSEE, Thus, for photo-transfers, the nearer UV range (300∼350 nm) is best.
Versatile Photostimulated Exoelectron Microscope and Its Application
Authors: Yamamoto Shigeyuki , Yokogawa Hiroshi , Hashimoto Hiroshi
Published: March 2014

A versatile photostimulated exoelectron microscope has been developed which has enabled us to observe a photostimulated exoelectron image and the corresponding secondary electron image of the same region. Through observations of various metal surfaces mechanically damaged by scratching, rubbing, blasting, or tensile deformation, it has been demonstrated that the exoelectron image gives information regarding the damage freshness.
The Adsorption of Gases on Clean Metal Surfaces and Exoelectron Emission
Authors: Ramsey J. A.
Published: March 2014

The gaseous environment has long been known to play an important role in exoemission. The subject is reviewed in general terms and then some recent work on the chemisorption of electronegative gases, especially O2 and Cl2, on clean metal surfaces is looked at in some detail. The role in exoemission of the lowering of the work function due to chemisorption and the formation of low work function patches is discussed. The enhancement in the electron affinity of electronegative gases on dissociative chemisorption sets the stage for electron transfer by tunnelling from the substrate conduction band and provides the basis for a plausible mechanism of exoemission by the Auger process.
Role of Non-Stoichiometry in Exoelectron Oxide Emission I. Emission Centers
Authors: Kortov V. S.
Published: March 2014

A model of an exoemission center created by an oxygen vacancy in SiO2 is represented as a cluster. Quantum chemistry methods for calculating the electronic structure of a center have been used. It has been established that a structural reconstruction of an exoemission center is possible to occur during the course of excitation and recharging. Calculations have shown a changing phonon spectrum for non-stoichiometric oxides. These effects induce the electrons to exit into a vacuum and cause an increase in the exoemission activity of anion-defective oxides.
Investigation of Elemental and Bond States Changes of a TSEE Active Surface
Authors: Glaefeke Harro
Published: March 2014

On the basis of a potential curve model, discussions are made regarding a unifying interpretation of EEE and AES (XPS) results. From these considerations, the obtained AES and TSEE results are inspected in view of bond sharing in the TSEE active center.
Development of a Detector of Variation of Underground Water Level Using Ultrasound
Authors: Okuyama Daitaro , Inoue Hiroshi , Yoshida Yasuo , Imano Kazuhiko , Abe Shinro
Published: March 2014

A system which measures the variation of underground water level in a bored hole using ultrasound is proposed. The principle of the measurement is the ultrasonic pulse echo method. A transducer is hung in the underground water and sends 1 MHz of ultrasound with a 50 µs pulse width upward to the water surface. The equipment has the ability to measure a depth of about 15 m with almost 3 cm resolution. An experiment using a telemeter system was carried out in a landslide area where there was much snow and no commercial power supply; the rising of the water level was observed with the thawing of the snow.
Investigation of an Equivalent Circuit Including Propagation Loss for an Interdigital Surface-Acoustic-Wave Transducer
Authors: Kojima Toshihiro , Suzuki Tatsuo
Published: March 2014

An equivalent circuit for an interdigital surface-acoustic-wave transducer (IDT), in which the propagation loss is taken into account, is investigated. From this circuit, the three-port admittance parameter Y
ij for the IDT having N-pair electrodes is derived in closed form. In the derivation, the image parameter theory is applied. Using this Y
ij in explicit expression, the driving-point admittance for an IDT is analyzed, and the effect of propagation loss on the radiation admittance is investigated.
Frequency Trimming of SAW Devices by Sputter Etching
Authors: Uno Takehiko , Onuki Kota
Published: March 2014

A new frequency trimming method for SAW devices in GHz bands has been developed. A frequency shift was obtained by forming grooves on the substrate surface using RF sputter etching. Because the center frequency of a SAW device in a GHz band is very sensitive to the groove depth, it is necessary to control the etched amount precisely. Modification of an RF diode sputter etching machine has made it possible to realize precise frequency trimming because of its low etching rate for quartz substrates of less than 1 nm/min. Frequency shift of more than 1,000 ppm was also obtained without any remarkable characteristic changes.
SAW Filters Using Three-Transducer Configuration with Outer Transducers Weighted by Comb-Shaped Characteristics
Authors: Yuhara Akitsuna , Sasaki Jun , Yamada Jun
Published: March 2014

New outer transducers which comprise pairs of elemental transducers with comb-shaped characteristics are studied for 3-transducer configuration to obtain good rejection in the stopband and good triple transit suppression. A designing method is also developed; these outer transducers are arranged to synthesize the passband shape of the filters, while the central transducer is apodized for matching in the pasband. Application of these transducers to a SAW filter of 400 MHz center frequency is discussed. Group delay of less than 10 n secpp is obtained, while a 10 dB loss is obtained in 50 Ω systems.
Inspection of Defects in Wood by Impact Excitation Method
Authors: Yanagiwara Masateru , Ohshima Shizuo , Yoshimura Noboru
Published: March 2014

This experiment was made to detect defects in pine timbers and to examine the effectiveness of the impact excitation method by analysing the emission of elastic waves. We used the moving average method to extract a characteristic waveform from the original waveform for defect free timber and timbers with artificially produced defects of half drilled or drilled-through holes. From the moving average waveform, graphs of the discrimination between the presence and absence of defects were made. These graphs showed a rate of discrimination of 85.2%.
An Error Evaluation for Ray Tracing on a Grid
Authors: Tabei Makoto , Ueda Mitsuhiro
Published: March 2014

A technique for ray tracing on the grid sound velocity representation is presented. A sound velocity sampling method using Gaussian base is also given. Directional error is defined for the rays passing through a discrete boundary, and comparison is made between the direct sampling and the Gaussian sampling. It is shown that error on the ray is caused by the sound velocity sampling procedure, and with appropriate sampling the error can be greatly reduced.
Multiple hydrological attractors under stochastic daily forcing: 2. Can multiple attractors emerge?
Authors: Peterson T. J. , Western A. W. , Argent R. M.
Published: March 2014

The companion paper showed that multiple steady state groundwater levels can exist within a hill‐slope Boussinesq‐vegetation model under daily stochastic forcing. Using a numerical limit‐cycle continuation algorithm, the steady states (henceforth attractors) and the threshold between them (henceforth repellor) were quantified at a range of saturated lateral conductivity values,
. This paper investigates if stochastic daily forcing can switch the catchment between both of the attractors. That is, an attractor may exist under average forcing conditions but can stochastic forcing switch the catchment into and out of each of the attractor basins?; i.e., making the attractor emerge. This was undertaken using the model of the companion paper and by completing daily time‐integration simulations at six values of the saturated lateral hydraulic conductivity,
; three having two attractors and three having only a deep water table attractor. By graphically analyzing the simulations, and comparing against simulations from a model modified to have only one attractor, multiple attractors were found to emerge under stochastic daily forcing. However, the emergence of attractors was significantly more subtle and complex than that suggested by the companion paper. That is, an attractor may exist but never emerge; both attractors may exist and both may emerge but identifying the switching between attractors was often ambiguous; and only one attractor may exist and but a second temporary attractor may exist and emerge during periods of high precipitation. This subtle and complex emergence of attractors was explained using continuation analysis of the climate forcing rate, and not a model parameter such as
. It showed that the temporary attractor existed over a large range of
values and this suggests that more catchments may have multiple attractors than suggested by the companion paper. By combining this continuation analysis with the time‐integration simulations, hydrological signatures indicative of a switch of multiple attractors were proposed. These signatures may provide a means for identifying actual catchments that have switched between multiple attractors.
Measurements and analysis of air quality in Islamabad, Pakistan
Authors: Rasheed Anjum , Aneja Viney P. , Aiyyer Anantha , Rafique Uzaira
Published: March 2014

Ambient air quality of Islamabad, Pakistan, reveals that annual average mass concentration of particulate matter (PM2.5) (∼45 to ∼95 µg m−3) and nitric oxide (NO) (∼41 to ∼120 µg m−3) exceeds the Pakistan's National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS). The annual ozone (O3) concentration is within the permissible limits; however, some of the hourly concentration exceeds the NEQS mostly during the summer months. Correlation studies suggest that carbon monoxide (CO) has a significant (p‐value ≤ 0.01) positive correlation with NO and NOy′; whereas, with O3, a significant (p‐value ≤ 0.01) negative correlation is observed. The regression analysis estimates the background CO concentration to be ∼300 to ∼600 ppbv in Islamabad. The higher ratio of CO/NO (∼10) suggests that mobile sources are the major contributor to NO concentration. On the other hand, the ratio analysis of sulfur dioxide (SO2)/NO for Islamabad (∼0.011) indicates that the point sources are contributing to SO2 in the city. NO and SO2 correlation indicates contribution of direct sulfur emission sources. Ratios of [CO] to [NO] and [SO2] to [NO], based on ambient air quality measurements, provide a test for emission inventories. The ratios of these pollutants in the available Islamabad emission inventories are consistent with ambient values for these pollutants. The correlation of PM2.5 and NO suggests that a fraction of secondary PM2.5 is produced by chemical conversion of NO into nitrates. The regional background O3 concentration for Islamabad has been determined to be ∼31 ppbv. This study suggests that there is an increase in O3 concentration with increases in photochemical conversion of NO to reservoir NOy′ species.
Lateral variations in the long‐term slip rate of the Chelungpu fault, Central Taiwan, from the analysis of deformed fluvial terraces
Authors: Simoes M. , Chen Y.‐G. , Shinde D. P. , Singhvi A. K.
Published: March 2014

The Chelungpu fault ruptured during the September 1999 Mw 7.6 Chi‐Chi earthquake, in Central Taiwan. This event was characterized by coseismic displacements increasing along strike and updip, from south to north. Previous studies suggested that such lateral variations also existed in the long‐term fault slip rate, but this has not yet been clearly documented. To address this, we investigate deformed fluvial terraces along the Choushui and Tatu‐Wu rivers, in the southern and central segments of the thrust fault. Optical ages of ~13 ka to ~38 ka obtained for these terraces enable estimation of fault slip rates of 5.8 ± 2.0 and 10.3 ± 1.6/−3.0 mm/yr for the southern and central segments, respectively. We combine these findings with the fault slip rate determined by other authors for the northern segment. Statistical analysis of the data suggests lateral variations in the long‐term fault slip rate, with values increasing toward the north. This pattern in the slip rate, averaged over approximately tens of thousand years, is similar to that observed for coseismic displacements during the Chi‐Chi earthquake. The similarities in the deformation pattern observed for one earthquake or cumulated over several events suggest that the Chi‐Chi earthquake could be characteristic of the earthquakes breaking the Chelungpu fault, with respect to slip distribution. Our results also allow for discussing the plausible evolution of major rivers draining the foothills of central Taiwan over the last ~40–60 kyr.
Remarkably consistent thermal state of the south central Chile subduction zone from 36°S to 45°S
Authors: Rotman Holly M. M. , Spinelli Glenn A.
Published: March 2014

Delineating rupture areas of subduction zone earthquakes is necessary for understanding the controls on seismic and aseismic slip. For the largest recorded earthquake, the 1960 Chile event with moment magnitude 9.5, the rupture area is only loosely defined due to limitations in the global seismic network at the time. The rupture extends ~900 km along strike. Coastal deformation is consistent with either a constant rupture width of ~180–200 km along the entire length or a narrower (~115 km) rupture in the southern half. A southward narrowing of the seismogenic zone has been hypothesized to result from warming of the subduction zone to the south, where the subducting plate is younger. We present results of thermal models at 36°S, 38°S, 43°S, and 45°S to examine potential along‐strike changes in thermal state. Models most consistent with observed surface heat flux include fluid circulation in the oceanic crust that advects heat to the ocean. This ventilated hydrothermal circulation preferentially cools transects with young subducting lithosphere; frictional heating preferentially warms transects with older subducting lithosphere. The combined effects of frictional heating and hydrothermal circulation increase décollement temperatures in the 36°S and 38°S transects by up to ~155°C and decrease temperatures in the 45°S transect by up to ~150°C. In our preferred models, décollement temperatures 200 km landward of the trench in all four transects are ~350–400°C. This is consistent with a constant ~200 km wide seismogenic zone for the 1960 Mw 9.5 rupture, with decreasing slip magnitude in the southern half of the rupture.
Predictability of tracer dilution in large open channel flows: Analytical solution for the coefficient of variation of the depth‐averaged concentration
Authors: Pannone Marilena
Published: March 2014

A large‐time analytical solution is proposed for the spatial variance and coefficient of variation of the depth‐averaged concentration due to instantaneous, cross sectionally uniform solute sources in pseudorectangular open channel flows. The mathematical approach is based on the use of the Green functions and on the Fourier decomposition of the depth‐averaged velocities, coupled with the method of the images. The variance spatial trend is characterized by a minimum at the center of the mass and two mobile, decaying symmetrical peaks which, at very large times, are located at the inflexion points of the average Gaussian distribution. The coefficient of variation, which provides an estimate of the expected percentage deviation of the depth‐averaged point concentrations about the section‐average, exhibits a minimum at the center which decays like t−1 and only depends on the river diffusive time scale. The defect of cross‐sectional mixing quickly increases with the distance from the center, and almost linearly at large times. Accurate numerical Lagrangian simulations were performed to validate the analytical results in preasymptotic and asymptotic conditions, referring to a particularly representative sample case for which cross‐sectional depth and velocity measurements were known from a field survey. In addition, in order to discuss the practical usefulness of computing large‐time concentration spatial moments in river flows, and resorting to directly measured input data, the order of magnitude of section‐averaged concentrations and corresponding coefficients of variation was estimated in field conditions and for hypothetical contamination scenarios, considering a unit normalized mass impulsively injected across the transverse section of 81 U.S. rivers.
Fabrication and Spatially Resolved Functionalization of 3D Microstructures via Multiphoton‐Induced Diels–Alder Chemistry
Authors: Quick Alexander S. , Rothfuss Hannah , Welle Alexander , Richter Benjamin , Fischer Joachim , Wegener Martin , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: March 2014

Three‐dimensional microstructures are fabricated utilizing direct laser writing combined with a non‐radical step polymerization based on multiphoton‐induced Diels–Alder chemistry of o‐quinodimethanes and maleimides. Woodpile photonic crystals with a total of five axial periods and a rod spacing of down to 500 nm are fabricated. The structures are characterized via scanning electron microscopy and focused ion beam milling. In addition, corresponding photonic stop bands are investigated via light microscopy as well as transmission and reflection spectroscopy. The Diels–Alder based network formation during direct laser writing is verified via infrared spectroscopy. Spatially resolved surface patterning of covalently bonded functional molecules on fabricated structures is demonstrated by employing the direct laser writing setup and a bromine containing maleimide. The successful surface modification is verified via time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry.
Polyethylene Imine as an Ideal Interlayer for Highly Efficient Inverted Polymer Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Kim Young‐Hoon , Han Tae‐Hee , Cho Himchan , Min Sung‐Yong , Lee Chang‐Lyoul , Lee Tae‐Woo
Published: March 2014

Electron‐injecting interlayers (ILs) which are stable in air, inject electrons efficiently, block holes, and block quenching of excitons, are very important to realize efficient inverted polymer light‐emitting diodes (IPLEDs). Two air‐stable polymer electron‐injecting interlayers (ILs), branched polyethyleneimine (PEI) and polyethyleneimine ethoxylated (PEIE) for use in IPLEDs are introduced, and the roles of the ILs in IPLEDs comparing these with a conventional Cs2CO3 IL are elucidated. These polymer ILs can reduce the electron injection barrier between ZnO and emitting layer by decreasing the work function (WF) of underlying ZnO, thereby effectively facilitating electron injection into the emitting layer. WF of ZnO covered by PEI is found to be lower than that covered by PEIE due to higher [N+]/[C] ratio of PEI. Furthermore, they can block the quenching of excitons and increase the luminous efficiency of devices. Thus, IPLEDs with PEI IL of optimum thickness (8 nm) show current efficiency (13.5 cd A–1), which is dramatically higher than that of IPLEDs with a Cs2CO3 IL (8 cd A‐1).
Injectable Chitosan‐Based Scaffolds in Regenerative Medicine and their Clinical Translatability
Authors: Mekhail Mina , Tabrizian Maryam
Published: March 2014

Injectable scaffolds (IS) are polymeric solutions that are injected in vivo and undergo gelation in response to physiological or non‐physiological stimuli. Interest in using IS in regenerative medicine has been increasing this past decade. IS are administered in vivo using minimally invasive surgery, which reduces hospitalization time and risk of surgical wound infection. Here, chitosan is explored as an excellent candidate for developing IS. A literature search reveals that 27% of IS publications in the past decade investigated injectable chitosan scaffolds (ICS). This increasing interest in chitosan stems from its many desirable physicochemical properties. The first section of this Progress Report is a comprehensive study of all physical, chemical, and biological stimuli that have been explored to induce ICS gelation in vivo. Second, the use of ICS is investigated in four major regenerative medicine applications, namely bone, cartilage, cardiovascular, and neural regeneration. Finally, an overall critique of the ICS literature in light of clinical translatability is presented. Even though ICS have been widely explored in the literature, very few have progressed to clinical trials. The authors discuss the current barriers to moving ICS into the clinic and provide suggestions regarding what is needed to overcome those challenges.
Implementation of an electronic genomic and family health history tool in primary prenatal care
Authors: Edelman Emily A. , Lin Bruce K. , Doksum Teresa , Drohan Brian , Edelson Vaughn , Dolan Siobhan M. , Hughes Kevin S. , O'Leary James , Galvin Shelley L. , DeGroat Nicole , Pardanani Setul , Feero W. Gregory , Adams Claire , Jones Renee , Scott Joan
Published: March 2014

“The Pregnancy and Health Profile,” (PHP) is a free genetic risk assessment software tool for primary prenatal providers that collects patient‐entered family (FHH), personal, and obstetrical health history, performs risk assessment, and presents the provider with clinical decision support during the prenatal encounter. The tool is freely available for download at www.hughesriskapps.net. We evaluated the implementation of PHP in four geographically diverse clinical sites. Retrospective chart reviews were conducted for patients seen prior to the study period and for patients who used the PHP to collect data on documentation of FHH, discussion of cystic fibrosis (CF) and hemoglobinopathy (HB) carrier screening, and CF and HB interventions (tests, referrals). Five hundred pre‐implementation phase and 618 implementation phase charts were reviewed. Documentation of a 3‐generation FHH or pedigree improved at three sites; patient race/ethnicity at three sites, father of the baby (FOB) race/ethnicity at all sites, and ancestry for the patient and FOB at three sites (P < 0.001–0001). CF counseling improved for implementation phase patients at one site (8% vs. 48%, P < 0.0001) and CF screening/referrals at two (2% vs. 14%, P < 0.0001; 6% vs. 14%; P = 0.05). Counseling and intervention rates did not increase for HB. This preliminary study suggests that the PHP can improve documentation of FHH, race, and ancestry, as well as the compliance with current CF counseling and intervention guidelines in some prenatal clinics. Future evaluation of the PHP should include testing in a larger number of clinical environments, assessment of additional performance measures, and evaluation of the system's overall clinical utility. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genomic medicine implementation: Learning by example
Authors: Williams Marc S.
Published: March 2014

Genomic Medicine is beginning to emerge into clinical practice. The National Human Genome Research Institute's Genomic Medicine Working Group consists of organizations that have begun to implement some aspect of genomic medicine (e.g., family history, systematic implementation of Mendelian disease program, pharmacogenomics, whole exome/genome sequencing). This article concisely reviews the working group and provides a broader context for the articles in the special issue including an assessment of anticipated provider needs and ethical, legal, and social issues relevant to the implementation of genomic medicine. The challenges of implementation of innovation in clinical practice and the potential value of genomic medicine are discussed. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Incorporation of epoxidized soybean oil as co‐matrix in epoxy resin toward developing plastisol/particulate toughened glass fiber composites
Authors: Rangasai Madoor Comandore , Bhosale Subhash Hanmant , Vinodkumar Singh Vismay , Ghosh Subrata Bandhu
Published: March 2014

Epoxidized soybean oil was incorporated as a co‐matrix into an epoxy resin, and the hybrid resin system was used for preparing glass fiber‐reinforced composites. Effect of addition of poly(vinyl chloride) plastisol and selected particulate fillers (fly ash and wood flour) to epoxy/epoxidized soybean oil matrix on mechanical and water uptake properties of glass fiber‐reinforced composites were studied. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to reveal the curing state of these composites. It was observed that tensile strengths and moduli decreased with the inclusion of all additives. However, addition of poly(vinyl chloride) plastisol, fly ash, and wood flour particulate fillers showed significant increase in impact strengths compared with neat epoxy composite in a synergistic manner. Water uptake results of the composites were found to be in good agreement with OH peak intensities obtained from Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Finally, acousto‐ultrasonic nondestructive technique was successfully used to assess damage states and to relate stress wave factors with tensile strength properties of modified epoxy‐based glass fiber composites. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40586.
Preparation and characterization of a poly(methyl methacrylate) based composite bone cement containing poly(acrylate‐co‐silane) modified hydroxyapatite nanoparticles
Authors: Rao Minyu , Su Qiangwei , Liu Zhenzhen , Liang Peiqing , Wu Nan , Quan Changyun , Jiang Qing
Published: March 2014

The purpose of this study was to study the mechanical properties of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)‐based bone cement incorporated with hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles after surface modification by poly(methyl methacrylate‐co‐γ‐methacryloxypropyl timethoxysilane) [P(MMA‐co‐MPS)]. PMMA and P(MMA‐co‐MPS) were synthesized via free‐radical polymerization. P(MMA‐co‐MPS)‐modified hydroxyapatite (m‐HA) was prepared via a dehydration process between silane and HA; the bone cement was then prepared via the in situ free‐radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate in the presence of PMMA and P(MMA‐co‐MPS)–m‐HA. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, 1H‐NMR, and gel permeation chromatography were used to characterize the P(MMA‐co‐MPS). Thermogravimetric analysis and FTIR were used as quantitative analysis methods to measure the content of P(MMA‐co‐MPS) on the surface of HA. The effect of the proportion of m‐HA in the PMMA‐based bone cement on the mechanical properties was studied with a universal material testing machine. A 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was also carried out to determine the cytotoxicity of the composite bone cement. The results showed that the surface modification of HA greatly improved the interaction between the inorganic and organic interfaces; this enhanced the mechanical properties of bone cement for potential clinical applications. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40587.
Anatomical knowledge retention in third‐year medical students prior to obstetrics and gynecology and surgery rotations
Authors: Jurjus Rosalyn A. , Lee Juliet , Ahle Samantha , Brown Kirsten M. , Butera Gisela , Goldman Ellen F. , Krapf Jill M.
Published: March 2014

Surgical anatomy is taught early in medical school training. The literature shows that many physicians, especially surgical specialists, think that anatomical knowledge of medical students is inadequate and nesting of anatomical sciences later in the clinical curriculum may be necessary. Quantitative data concerning this perception of an anatomical knowledge deficit are lacking, as are specifics as to what content should be reinforced. This study identifies baseline areas of strength and weakness in the surgical anatomy knowledge of medical students entering surgical rotations. Third‐year medical students completed a 20–25‐question test at the beginning of the General Surgery and Obstetrics and Gynecology rotations. Knowledge of inguinal anatomy (45.3%), orientation in abdominal cavity (38.8%), colon (27.7%), and esophageal varices (12.8%) was poor. The numbers in parentheses are the percentage of questions answered correctly per topic. In comparing those scores to matched test items from this cohort as first‐year students in the anatomy course, the drop in retention overall was very significant (P = 0.009) from 86.9 to 51.5%. Students also scored lower in questions relating to pelvic organs (46.7%), urogenital development (54.0%), pulmonary development (17.8%), and pregnancy (17.8%). These data showed that indeed, knowledge of surgical anatomy is poor for medical students entering surgical clerkships. These data collected will be utilized to create interactive learning modules, aimed at improving clinically relevant anatomical knowledge retention. These modules, which will be available to students during their inpatient surgical rotations, connect basic anatomy principles to clinical cases, with the ultimate goal of closing the anatomical knowledge gap. Anat Sci Educ 7: 461–468. © 2014 American Association of Anatomists.
Review of ethanol dispersion, distribution, and elimination from the fetal compartment
Authors: Heller Michaela , Burd Larry
Published: March 2014

Background

This study is a review of alcohol dispersion into and elimination from the fetal compartment.

Methods

PubMed searches were conducted for all years and all languages for relevant papers. We also hand searched the reference list of papers and text books for additional references.

Results

Alcohol concentration is determined by body water (49% for women), grams of ethanol consumed, and duration of drinking. The fetus has very limited metabolic capacity and transfer from the fetal compartment to maternal circulation is the major pathway to reduce fetal exposure. Vasoconstriction of the placenta‐umbilical unit from alcohol and smoking decreases rates of alcohol elimination from the fetal compartment. By 20 weeks of gestation, keratinization of fetal skin reduces the permeability of fetal skin to very low levels, increasing the duration of fetal exposure and complicating alcohol elimination from the fetal compartment. Two reabsorption pathways, the intramembranous pathway and fetal swallowing, create a recycling system where much of the ethanol the fetus excretes will be reabsorbed back into its circulatory system. Fetal re‐excretion of ethanol into the amniotic fluid occurs by means of fetal urine, breathing movements, and nasal excretions. Amniotic fluid then functions as a reservoir for ethanol, prolonging fetal exposure.

Conclusion

While the fetus has the ability to metabolize some ethanol, removal from the fetal–maternal unit relies primarily on maternal metabolic capacity. The alcohol elimination rate from the fetal compartment is approximately 3% to 4% of the maternal rate. We conclude with examples of the clinical relevance of information from this review. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 100:277–283, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Process optimization for reverse micellar extraction of stem bromelain with a focus on back extraction
Authors: Dhaneshwar Amrut D. , Chaurasiya Ram Saran , Hebbar H. Umesh
Published: March 2014

In the current study, reverse micellar extraction (RME) for the purification of stem bromelain was successfully achieved using the sodium bis(2‐ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate (AOT)/isooctane system. A maximum forward extraction efficiency of 58.0% was obtained at 100 mM AOT concentration, aqueous phase pH of 8.0 and 0.2 M NaCl. Back extraction studies on altering stripping phase pH and KCl concentration, addition of counter‐ion and iso‐propyl alcohol (IPA) and mechanical agitation with glass beads indicated that IPA addition and agitation with glass beads have significant effects on extraction efficiency. The protein extraction was higher (51.9%) in case of the IPA (10% v/v) added system during back extraction as compared to a cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (100 mM) added system (9.42%). The central composite design technique was used to optimize the back extraction conditions further. Concentration of IPA, amount of glass beads, mixing time, and agitation speed (in rpm) were the variables selected. IPA concentration of 8.5% (v/v), glass bead concentration of 0.6 (w/v), and mixing time of 45 min at 400 rpm resulted in higher back extraction efficiency of 45.6% and activity recovery of 88.8% with purification of 3.04‐fold. The study indicated that mechanical agitation using glass beads could be used for destabilizing the reverse micelles and release of bromelain back into the fresh aqueous phase. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 30:845–855, 2014