bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photoinduced Volume Changes of Obliquely and Flatly Deposited Amorphous AsSe Films Universal Description of the Kinetics
Authors: Lukács Rozália , Kugler Sándor
Published: September 2011

Recently, we have constructed structural models for flatly deposited amorphous Se (a-Se) and using these configurations we have developed atomic scale model of photoinduced volume changes in this type of films. In this paper the same work on obliquely deposited thin film is presented. Universal description for the kinetics of photoinduced volume change in chalcogenide glasses is proposed based on our results. Our model containing reversible (transient) and irreversible (metastable) parts for kinetics fits well the experimental results of both obliquely and flatly deposited a-AsSe thin films. Finally, we make a brief comment on stretched exponential function which could also provide a quite good fit to experimental data.
Structural Characterization of Lead Titanate Film Synthesized by Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Nii Hiroyuki , Kunishige Atsuhiro , Nakagawa Hamazo , Koyanagi Tsuyoshi
Published: September 2011

Structural properties of hydrothermally deposited PbTiO3 films have been investigated. The films were synthesized in the temperature range from 120 to 180 °C for 24 h. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis indicates that all of the deposited films exhibited the tetragonal perovskite single phase. However, 001 diffraction peaks broadened in comparison with 100 diffraction peaks. Structural characterization showed that the films had two regions with different crystallinities. In one region, the PbTiO3 crystals had a relatively high crystallinity and grew with a preferred orientation in the (001) direction. Furthermore, in this region, the crystallinity of the crystals deposited at a temperature as low as 120 °C was similar to that of the crystals deposited at 180 °C. On the other hand, the PbTiO3 crystals in another region exhibited a low crystallinity and a random orientation. Consequently, the broadening of the 001 diffraction peaks can be explained by the mixed structure of the two regions with different crystallinities.
Electrochemical Creeping and Actuation of Polypyrrole in Ionic Liquid
Authors: Kaneto Keiichi , Shinonome Teruyuki , Tominaga Kazuo , Takashima Wataru
Published: September 2011

The electrochemical creeping and actuation of polypyrrole films operated in an ionic liquid are reported. The electrochemical deformation was initiated by the reduction and swelling of the films by 15–20% with soaking in ionic liquid. An electrochemical strain of 3% and a blocked stress of 1.7 MPa showing cation movement were obtained. The film showed creeping at tensile loads larger than 0.5 MPa. The electrochemical strain obtained in a mixed solution of an ionic liquid and propylene carbonate was 15% at the initial stage, showing anion movement together with swelling induced by soaking in solvents. However, the electrochemical strain became negligible after several electrochemical cycles, resulting from the loss of electrochemical activity and conductivity upon swelling.
Quadrimolecular Recombination of Persistent Photocarriers in Surface-Type Photocells of Regioregular Poly(3-hexylthiophene)/Methanofullerene Composites
Authors: Ito Hiroshi , Nishikawa Yuki , Suzuki Junya , Suzuki Akimitsu , Watanabe Shun-ichiro , Tanaka Hisaaki , Kishida Hideo , Nakamura Arao , Kuroda Shin-ichi
Published: September 2011

Photocarrier recombination kinetics was studied in regioregular poly(3-hexylthiophene)/methanofullerene composites by measuring the photocurrent of surface-type photocells. The photocurrent exhibited fast and persistent components. The light-intensity dependence of the photocurrent and the analysis of decay curves of the persistent component indicated the dominance of quadrimolecular recombination (QR) between two positive carriers on regioregular polymers and two negative carriers on methanofullerenes in the time range of 0.1 to 100 s. No QR but bimolecular recombination was observed in cells containing regiorandom polymers, consistent with light-induced electron spin resonance studies. These results differ markedly from those of sandwich-type cells in which photocarriers flow out of the cell prior to the recombination, demonstrating an advantage of the surface-type photocell with larger electrode spacing in studying the recombination of long-lived photocarriers. At high methanofullerene concentrations above 50 wt %, the fast component predominates over the persistent one by annealing owing to percolation of the pathway for negative carriers.
Tailoring the Morphology of Carbon Nanotube Assemblies Using Microgradients in the Catalyst Thickness
Authors: Shiratori Yosuke , Furuichi Koji , Tsuji Yoshiko , Sugime Hisashi , Noda Suguru
Published: September 2011

In addition to the structural control of individual carbon nanotubes (CNTs), the morphological control of their assemblies is crucial to realize miniaturized CNT devices. Microgradients in the thickness of catalyst are used to enrich the variety of available self-organized morphologies of CNTs. Microtrenches were fabricated in gate/spacer/cathode trilayers using a conventional self-aligned top-down process and catalyst exhibiting a microgradient in its thickness was formed on the cathode by sputter deposition through gate slits. CNTs, including single-walled CNTs, of up to 1 µm in length were grown within 5–15 s by chemical vapor deposition. The tendency of thin CNTs to aggregate caused interactions between CNTs with different growth rates, yielding various morphologies dependent on the thickness of the catalyst. The field emission properties of several types of CNT assemblies were evaluated. The ability to produce CNTs with tailored morphologies by engineering the spatial distribution of catalysts will enhance their performance in devices.
Thin Film Transistor Using Amorphous InGaZnO Films as Both Channel and Source/Drain Electrodes
Authors: Park Kyung , Choi Ju-Yun , Lee Hoo-Jeong , Kwon Jang-Yeon , Kim Hyoungsub
Published: September 2011

For the fabrication of a low-cost and transparent amorphous InGaZnO (a-IGZO) thin film transistor (TFT), the possibility of using semiconducting and conducting, a-IGZO films as the channel and source/drain (S/D) electrode layers, respectively, was investigated, as was their effect on the device performance. Although the a-IGZO S/D electrodes' transistor performance was somewhat degraded, possibly due to the ex-situ integration process, acceptable TFT characteristics and transparency were obtained for the next-generation, transparent active matrix displays. The post-fabrication annealing ambient significantly affected the electrical properties of the a-IGZO S/D and channel layers, as the carrier concentration exhibited a close dependency on the amount of oxygen in the annealing ambient.
Evaluation of Particle Protection Capability of Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography Mask Carrier in Vacuum Transfer by Experiment and Calculation
Authors: Amemiya Mitsuaki , Ota Kazuya , Taguchi Takao , Suga Osamu
Published: September 2011

In extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUVL), particle-free mask handling is a critical issue. We have studied particle protection capability of a dual pod, which consists of an outer pod and an inner pod that holds the mask. Our experiment and calculation demonstrated that a dual pod prevents particle addition in a quality area of 142×142 mm2 at the center of the mask, because particles entering the inner pod stopped near the edges. Our experiments showed 8 particle adders (≥46-nm polystyrene latex particle equivalent) for 1850-cycle transfer tests, and the dual pod satisfied the pre-production tool specification. Our measurement repeatability was 0.0015(σ)/cycle with a binominal distribution; however, we found that the accuracy was insufficient for an estimated specification of a high-volume machine. We discussed the necessary handling cycles and a method to improve repeatability by inspecting the area outside the quality area.
One-Beam Push–Pull Method with Simple Holographic Optical Element for Multilayer Blu-ray Discs
Authors: Nakahara Hironori , Ohmaki Masayuki , Shinoda Masahisa , Matozaki Toshiya , Takeshita Nobuo
Published: September 2011

The use of a multilayer is efficient for increasing the recording capacity of optical discs, but the unnecessary layer cross talk affected by the stray light is also increased. Layer crosstalk should be suppressed to realize a stable tracking servo system. A one-beam push–pull method with a simple holographic optical element for a multilayer Blu-ray disc is proposed, and its effectiveness in suppressing the layer crosstalk was experimentally confirmed.
Origin of Second-Order Nonlinear Optical Effects of Nonpoled Donor–Acceptor Chromophores on Surface
Authors: Michinobu Tsuyoshi , Li Yongrong , Washino Yusuke , Murata Kimie , Tsuboi Kazuma
Published: September 2011

Thin films of alkyl conjugated donor–acceptor (D–A) molecules, prepared by a high-yielding addition reaction between electron-rich alkynes and tetracyanoethylene (TCNE) or 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ), were investigated by ultraviolet–visible–near infrared (UV–vis–NIR) spectroscopy, in-plane and out-of-plane X-ray diffraction (XRD), and second-harmonic generation (SHG) measurements. The variable self-assembling ability of D–A chromophores produced different molecular orientations in the thin films. The TCNQ-adducted D–A molecule formed a centrosymmetric bilayer structure based on the strong interactions between the chromophores, while the film of the TCNE-adducted counter molecule was composed of interdigitated alkyl layers and randomly oriented chromophores due to their weak interactions. The interfacial interactions between a substrate and a TCNE-adducted molecular layer were expected to induce a noncentrosymmetric chromophore orientation in the thin film, which produced an effective SHG coefficient (deff) ofca.21 pm V-1without electric poling.
Nonlinear Equalization for Super-Resolution Near-Field Structure Discs Using a Simplicial Canonical Piecewise-Linear Model
Authors: Seo Manjung , Jeon Seokhun , Im Sungbin
Published: September 2011

In this paper, we propose a simplicial canonical piecewise-linear (SCPWL) model-based equalizer to mitigate nonlinear distortion resulting in inter symbol interference (ISI) in a super-resolution near-field structure (super-RENS) disc system. The proposed equalizer consists of the linear part represented by a finite impulse response (FIR) filter and the nonlinear part implemented using a SCPWL function. Its validity is tested using radio frequency (RF) signal samples obtained from a super-RENS disc. The raw bit error rate (BER) performance with the proposed equalizer is measured for various key parameters of the SCPWL model. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed equalizer achieves outstanding raw BER performance improvement by effectively compensating for the nonlinear distortion introducing the ISI.
Neural Network Equalizer Matched to Recording Code in Holographic Data Storage
Authors: Osawa Hisashi , Natsui Shogo , Okamoto Yoshihiro , Nakamura Yasuaki
Published: September 2011

The neural network equalizer (NNE) matched to recording code is proposed to reduce the influence of interpixel interference in holographic data storage (HDS). A searching method is proposed to proceed simultaneously with the search of a conversion table of the 5–9 recording code and the search of simplified NNE by using hybrid genetic algorithm. Furthermore, the bit error rate performance of HDS system is obtained. The result shows that the proposed method is superior in the performance to the conventional method.
New Edge-Shift Detection Method for Write Strategy Optimization in High-Density Optical Disc Recording
Authors: Kurokawa Takahiro , Minemura Hiroyuki , Kikukawa Atsushi , Watanabe Koichi
Published: September 2011

We propose a sophisticated edge-shift detection method based on the partial response maximum likelihood technology for high-density optical disc recordings. One of the major features is the capability of detecting the edge shifts of short marks that cannot be optically resolved. Another feature is that measured values are not affected by the signal-to-noise ratio in a readout signal. This ensures drive compatibility. Furthermore, the edge-shift values are sorted and evaluated corresponding to the write pulse control parameters for simplifying write strategy optimization. These features make write strategy optimization possible under an areal recording density of over 30 Gbyte/layer.
Tracking Property of Adjacent Track Servo System for Optical Disk Drives
Authors: Urakawa Yoshiyuki , Suzuki Yuichi , Ishimoto Tsutomu , Mukasa Tomoharu , Horigome Junichi
Published: September 2011

An adjacent track servo (ATS) technology for recording to an optical disk without track information is expected to produce optical disks with lower cost. The main problem of the ATS system is its stability. Generally, ATS systems become stable with a feed-forward controller. However, we found that the tracking property of the ATS system with feed-forward controller is not enough to suppress tracking errors of optical disk drives. We propose another feed-forward controller to obtain a faster response, and by simulation, we show that the controller keeps tracking errors small enough.
Axial Vibration Characteristics Considering a Moving Pick-Up Unit for the Flexible Optical Disk System
Authors: Jo Jun Hyeon , Rhim Yoon Chul
Published: September 2011

The axial vibration characteristics of the flexible optical disk are investigated experimentally considering the pick-up window and the geometry of a moving pick-up. The axial runout of the disk is measured by using a laser displacement sensor along the four perpendicular radial directions. Measurements are conducted with respect to the shapes of pick-up faces, which have different radius of curvatures, as well as to the positions of the moving pick-up. A flat stabilizer with damping orifices is used in the experiment and the disk is rotated at 8,000, 10,000, and 12,000 rpm. The axial runouts and the displacements of the disk are measured for 6 different shaped pick-ups. The smallest axial runout of 10 µm, which is well manageable for the current optical disk drive technology, is obtained when we use the curved pick-up with curvatures of 400 mm in the direction of disk rotation.
Experimental Analysis of Axial Run-Out in Flexible Optical Disks
Authors: Kajiyama Takeshi , Koide Daiichi , Tokumaru Haruki , Takano Yoshimichi , Onagi Nobuaki , Aman Yasutomo
Published: September 2011

Flexible optical disks (FODs) can be rotated at 15,000 rpm and used to record at a high data transfer rate for high-definition video recording systems. However, further improvement to the current rate is required to efficiently copy and transfer video content. We studied the stabilizing mechanism of FODs using an aerodynamic stabilization system to increase the transfer rate at a rotational speed of more than 15,000 rpm. Experimental results demonstrate that the axial run-out of FODs has three phases in state. We also found that it is possible to implement a rotational speed of up to 20,000 rpm.
Magnetic Field Induced by Various Input Beam Polarizations in All-Optical Magnetic Recording
Authors: Vienne Guillaume , Eason Kwaku , Xie Zhixiong , Lim Yu Ting , Li Jianming
Published: September 2011

In this work, we investigate the role of the input optical beam polarization on the resulting magnetic field generated for applications like all-optical magnetic recording (AOMR). We consider two mechanisms by which a laser source gives rise to a magnetic field: the inverse Faraday effect and an additional mechanism, referred to as optically-induced spin–orbit coupling, which is especially relevant under the very large electrical field associated with ultrashort laser pulse excitation. We compare the direction, magnitude, and spatial extent of the induced magnetic field for both mechanisms. It is found that circular polarization, which generates a strong magnetic field mainly perpendicular to the medium through the inverse Faraday effect, is well-suited to data storage applications. Azimuthal polarization is also favorable, as it results in a purely perpendicular magnetic field, which in this case is solely due to optically-induced spin–orbit coupling. The numerical examples considered here are based on the pulsed titanium–sapphire laser excitation of a GdFeCo medium, as described in typical AOMR experiments.
Soft-Decoding Algorithm of 3/4 Tone-Controllable Code with Low-Density Parity Check Code for Holographic Data Storage
Authors: Park Donghyuk , Lee Jaejin
Published: September 2011

We propose a soft-decoding algorithm of the 3/4 tone-controllable (TC) code, which has the advantage of controlling the ratio of ON and OFF pixels within each data page. The soft-decoded output maximizes the performance of the low density parity check (LDPC) code which is an outer error control code in holographic data storage systems. We simulate the performance of the soft-decoded 3/4 TC code with the LDPC code. The proposed soft-decoding algorithm can be applied to other modulation codes.
Parallel Signal Readout for Roll-Type Optical Advanced Memory
Authors: Tsuji Masatoshi , Inami Wataru , Kawata Yoshimasa , Ito Masaharu
Published: September 2011

We demonstrated one-dimensional parallel readout of a roll-type optical advanced memory. Using a line shape focused beam, multiple signals can be detected simultaneously. To demonstrate one-dimensional parallel readout, we fabricated groove-structured roll-type optical advanced memory. The groove-structures were imprinted by a digital versatile disc stamper. We could detect multiple signals from each groove-structured layer without crosstalk by using line-scanning confocal microscopy. We demonstrated the simultaneous detection of eleven signals.
Reducing Interlayer Crosstalk in Reading Multilayer Disc for Compact Optical Pickup Using Polarizing Filter
Authors: Kimura Shigeharu , Tatsu Eriko , Ide Tatsuro
Published: September 2011

We proposed an interlayer crosstalk reduction device that can be used in an optical pickup based on the astigmatic aberration method. The device has two wave plates covering the half plane at different positions on the optical axis and an analyzer, and is placed in the beam of astigmatic aberration. We can make the polarization state of the beam after transmission of the two wave plates different according to whether the focal line position is situated between the two wave plates. We measured the device transmission and confirmed that the optical characteristics agree well with the simulation.
Piezoelectric Characteristics of Poly(γ-benzyl-L-glutamate) Film Oriented under Strong Magnetic Field
Authors: Uehara Yusuke , Fukumoto Takahiro , Kamimura Yuuki , Kuroda Shintaro , Kimura Tsunehisa , Date Munehiro , Fukada Eiichi , Tajitsu Yoshiro
Published: September 2011

To attempt the realization of a highly piezoelectric polymer film, we used an oriented poly(γ-benzyl-L-glutamate) (PBLG) film that was cast from chloroform solution under the strong magnetic field induced by a generation apparatus using a superconducting magnet. First, the orientation of the PBLG principal chain in the film was observed macroscopically by polarizing microscopy (POM), and it was found that the orientation of the principal chain differed in each region. Then, in order to observe each region, using our original apparatus, the birefringence (retardation) and optical axis were measured at 100 µm pitch/point-to-point, and a cm-order region with high retardation was found. We then cut off a small piece from this region of the PBLG film and evaluated the shear piezoelectric constant. A large shear piezoelectric constant of 18 pC/N was found in the small piece. Also, the PBLG film was investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM). We found a characteristic slender structure in the region with a high macroscopic shear piezoelectric constant. Furthermore, the piezoelectric motion due to its shear piezoelectricity in the region was investigated microscopically by piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM), which successfully enabled the direct observation of the piezoelectric displacement due to its shear piezoelectricity in one direction in the entire region with the characteristic slender structure. On the basis of these results, we speculate that the principal chain was highly oriented and crystallized in the region with the characteristic slender structure, resulting in a large shear piezoelectric constant in the region.
One-Directional Grain-Orientation Control of Piezoelectric Ceramics with Tungsten Bronze Structure by Spin-Forming-Extended Method
Authors: Ishii Keisuke , Tashiro Shinjiro
Published: September 2011

In order to easily fabricate one directional grain-oriented piezoelectric ceramics with the tungsten bronze structure, the modified rolling-extended orientation method (spin-forming-extended method) was employed. By spin-forming a cylindrical claylike green body, needlelike templates were aligned in the length direction of the green body. The repetition number of the spin-forming process, the content of the templates in the green body and the Pb/Ba ratio in (Pb1-x
Ba
x
)0.96La8/3Nb2O6 used for the templates and matrix powder were optimized. The rectangular ceramics, which are c-axis-oriented in the thickness direction and have a size of 30 mm in the length direction, were consequently obtained.
Nonlinear Behavior and High-Power Properties of (Bi,Na,Ba)TiO3 and (Sr,Ca)2NaNb5O15 Piezoelectric Ceramics
Authors: Doshida Yutaka , Shimizu Hiroyuki , Mizuno Youich , Itoh Keita , Hirose Seiji , Tamura Hideki
Published: September 2011

The nonlinear behaviors and high-power properties of two lead-free piezoelectric ceramics – (Bi1/2Na1/2)0.85Ba0.15Ti0.98Mn0.02O3 (BNBTM) and Sr1.9Ca0.1NaNb5O15 (SCNN) – were clarified by comparison of their mechanical characteristics using the continuous driving method. BNBTM ceramics exhibited jump phenomena with constant-voltage driving that were similar to those found in Pb(Zr,Ti)O3-based (PZT) ceramics. The jump phenomena of SCNN ceramics produced mirror-reversed images relative to those of BNBTM ceramics. Their nonlinear behaviors were caused by the soft-spring effect and hard-spring effect, respectively. Among the piezoelectric materials, SCNN ceramics possess notable elastic properties. With increasing vibration velocity, their rise in temperature was lower than that of PZT ceramics; in particular, the temperature of SCNN ceramics was lower than that of BNBTM ceramics. The quality factor of BNBTM ceramics gradually decreased and that of SCNN ceramics showed a broad peak. The degradation of the quality factor was thus limited, resulting in a gradual increase in the equivalent mechanical resistance.
Precursor Effect on Hydrothermal Synthesis of Sodium Potassium Niobate Fine Particles and Their Piezoelectric Properties
Authors: Kanie Kiyoshi , Mizutani Hideto , Terabe Atsuki , Numamoto Yoshiki , Tsukamoto Shintaro , Takahashi Hirofumi , Nakaya Masafumi , Tani Junji , Muramatsu Atsushi
Published: September 2011

Controlled synthesis of sodium potassium niobate (Na
x
K1-x
NbO3: NKN) fine particles with different K/Na ratios was successfully achieved by the two-step hydrothermal reaction at 100 °C for 24 h and 200–250 °C for 3 h using niobium pentachloride as a soluble precursor. As a result of the effect of the K/Na ratio in the starting solution, NKN particles with an orthorhombic sodium niobate were formed in the NaOH/KOH ratios from 10/8 to 7/11. When the NaOH/KOH ratio was adjusted to 10/8, cubic-shaped particles were obtained, and the mean particle size with the size distribution was 3.0±1.2 µm. In contrast, by aging at 250 °C, NKN particles with orthorhombic potassium niobate crystal structure were obtained in the NaOH/KOH ratios from 5/13 to 1/17. Furthermore, monodispersed and octahedral-shaped NKN fine particles with a tetragonal crystal structure were formed as a single phase at 200 °C with the NaOH/KOH ratio of 6/12. The octahedral-shaped particles had a hierarchical built-up structure of cubic-shaped nanoparticles. The sodium and potassium ratio in the NKN crystal structures was further characterized by Rietveld analysis. All the NKN ceramics, prepared starting from the present hydrothermal method, had a highly porous structure. However, these ceramics exhibited high d
33 values of ca. 100 pC/N. This result means that the octahedral-shaped NKN particles have high potential as lead-free piezoelectric materials.
Effects of A-Site Ions on the Phase Transition Temperatures and Dielectric Properties of (1-x)(Na0.5K0.5)NbO3–xAZrO3 Solid Solutions
Authors: Wang Ruiping , Bando Hiroshi , Kidate Miyuki , Nishihara Yoshikazu , Itoh Mitsuru
Published: September 2011

(1-x)(Na0.5K0.5)NbO3–xAZrO3 (A = Sr, Ca) solid solutions have been prepared to study the effcts of A-site ions on the successive phase transition temperatures. It is found that the phase diagram for the solid solutions are very similar: with increasing x, the cubic–tetragonal phase transition temperature T
C–T and the tetragonal–orthorhombic phase transition temperature T
T–O shift to the lower-temperature region, while the orthorombic–rhombohedral phase transition temperature T
O–R shifts to the higher temperature region. When x is between 8 and ∼15 molar percentage, the orthorhombic–rhombohedral phase transition temperature is higher than room temperature and the (1-x)(Na0.5K0.5)NbO3–xAZrO3 solid solutions exhibit rhombohedral symmetry at room temperature. It is found that T
C–T is affected by A-site ions; while T
T–O and T
O–R are almost independent of A-site ions.
Performance of Piezoelectric Power Generation of Multilayered Poly(vinylidene fluoride) under High Mechanical Strain
Authors: Nakajima Takashi , Okaya Keiko , Ohta Kanako , Furukawa Takeo , Okamura Soichiro
Published: September 2011

In this study, we examine the effective usage of a piezoelectric polymer for electric power generation on the basis of polymeric features such as high robustness, high flexibility, and easy formability. Theoretical calculation elucidates the potential of piezoelectric generation of the polymer with a large elastic strain. It is confirmed by the experimental results that the multilayered structure of the rolled poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) films enhances the performance of piezoelectric generation in proportion to the number of the PVDF layers and shows an apparentd33of 7.1 nC/N for the film rolled 200 times. The generated charge as a function of the applied stress shows a linear increase. As a practical usage, we design the mechanical system equipped with a lever for applying a large foot-step-derived stress to embedded PVDF films. The performance of electric power generation using the system and the charging characteristics with the relatively large load capacitor are presented.
Fabrication of Low-Residual-Stress AlN Thin Films and Their Application to Microgenerators for Vibration Energy Harvesting
Authors: Zhang Jinya , Cao Ziping , Kuwano Hiroki
Published: September 2011

For obtaining low residual stress, AlN thin films were prepared on Si substrates with diverse bottom electrode materials of Pt/Ti, Au/Cr, Al, and Ti by the electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) deposition technology. Among them, AlN thin films deposited on the substrate with the Al bottom electrode demonstrated not only low residual stress but also high enoughc-axis orientation, and thus they were utilized to fabricate microgenerators by the micromachining process for converting environmental vibration energy into electric energy. The AlN microgenerator had a resonant frequency of 1042.6 Hz and the output power was 1.42 µW at the vibration frequency and 1gacceleration.
Local Structure Analysis of Bi(Mg0.5Ti0.5)O3 Grown by High Pressure Synthesis
Authors: Yoneda Yasuhiro , Saitoh Hiroyuki , Yoshii Kenji
Published: September 2011

B-site mixed bismuth perovskite oxide of Bi(Mg0.5Ti0.5)O3 (BMT) was grown by high-pressure and high-temperature synthesis to achieve a morphotropic phase boundary induced by pressure. Two types of BMT crystal were obtained: one has an orthorhombic structure and the other has a rhombohedral structure. In situ high-pressure and high-temperature X-ray diffraction measurements were performed. It was clarified that the orthorhombic structure is stabilized in the ambient-pressure phase and the rhombohedral structure is stabilized in the high pressure phase. We also performed local structure analysis by atomic pair-distribution function analysis. The similarity of local structures in the orthorhombic and rhombohedral BMT crystals was revealed, and this similarity enables phase transition under pressure.
Influence of Optical Purity on Stability of Chiral Smectic-C Phase in Antiferroelectric Liquid Crystal under Pressure
Authors: Uehara Hiroyuki
Published: September 2011

The complex dielectric constants of 4-(1-methylheptyloxycalbonyl) phenyl 4'-octyloxybiphenyl-4-carboxylate (MHPOBC) with different optical purities (R:S = 6:4, 9:1) were measured under pressure. In MHPOBC (R:S=6:4, 20%ee), the temperature width of the chiral smectic-C (SmC*) phase increased with pressure. On the other hand, the temperature width of the SmC* phase in MHPOBC (R:S=9:1, 80%ee) was almost independent of pressure at low pressures, but the SmC* phase vanished above 100 MPa. The chiral smectic-Cα (SmCα
*) phase instead of the SmC* phase widened at 150 MPa. From these results, including those of previous studies, the SmC* phase widened with pressure when the optical purity was below 50%ee and vanished under pressure when the optical purity was above 80%ee. It is suggested that the disappearance of the SmC* phase under pressure is related to the appearance of the SmCα
* phase at atmospheric pressure.
Fabrication and Dielectric Properties of (Ba0.7Sr0.3)TiO3–Glass Composites
Authors: Tanaka Michihiro , Abe Kazutomo , Itoh Hidenobu , Takahashi Junichi
Published: September 2011

Bulk and thick-film (Ba0.7Sr0.3)TiO3 (BST)–glass composites with different dielectric properties were fabricated at 1000 °C from powder mixtures of a sol–gel-derived BST and a commercial glass (GP). Increasing the calcination temperature of the BST gel powder from 850 to 1000 °C resulted in an increase in the sintered density of the composites with simultaneous increases in dielectric permittivity (εr) and its temperature coefficient. Similar changes were observed in composites with different GP contents. A substantial decrease in εr with a broadened εr–temperature curve for the 12% GP composite could be attributed to the inhibited densification and enhanced formation of the secondary fresnoite phase. The dielectric properties and dielectric tunability of the composites were examined in relation to their relative density (d
rel), crystallinity (L
app), and relative fraction of the BST phase (f
BST). Although changes in εr, its temperature dependence, and tunability were nominally correlated with the d
rel change of the sintered composites, the result that the d
rel of the composites was basically an increasing function of L
app and f
BST suggested the substantial contributions of L
app and f
BST to those changes.
Abstraction in hardware system design
Authors: Nikhil Rishiyur S.
Published: September 2011

Applying lessons from software languages to hardware languages using Bluespec SystemVerilog.
Adaptive control of grip force to compensate for static and dynamic torques during object manipulation
Authors: Crevecoeur F. , Giard T. , Thonnard J.-L. , Lefèvre P.
Published: September 2011

Manipulating a cup by the handle requires compensating for the torque induced by the moment of the mass of the cup relative to the location of the handle. In the present study, we investigated the control strategy of subjects asked to perform grip-lift movements with an object with center of mass located away from the grip axis. Participants were asked to lift the manipulandum with a two-fingers precision grip and stabilize it in front of a visual target. Subjects showed a gradual and slow adaptation of the grip-force scaling across trials: the grip force tended to decrease slowly, and the temporal coordination between grip-force and load-torque rates displayed gradually, better-coordinated patterns. Importantly, this adaptation was much slower than the stabilization of the same parameters measured either when no torque came into play or after previous adaptation to the presence of a torque. In contrast, the maximum rotation induced by the torque was controlled efficiently after only few trials, and an unexpected decrease in the tangential torque produced significant overcompensation. An unexpected increase in torque produced a consistent opposite effect. This shows that the compensation for the dynamic torque was based on an anticipatory, dynamic counter-torque produced by the arm and wrist motor commands. The comparatively slow stabilization of grip-force control suggests a specific adaptation process engaged by the presence of the torque. This paradigm, including tangential torques, clearly constitutes a powerful tool to extract the adaptive component of grip control during object manipulation.
Multiple sites of extinction for a single learned response
Authors: Kalmbach Brian E. , Mauk Michael D.
Published: September 2011

Most learned responses can be diminished by extinction, a process that can be engaged when a conditioned stimulus (CS) is presented but not reinforced. We present evidence that plasticity in at least two brain regions can mediate extinction of responses produced by trace eyelid conditioning, where the CS and the reinforcing stimulus are separated by a stimulus-free interval. We observed individual differences in the effects of blocking extinction mechanisms in the cerebellum, the structure that, along with several forebrain structures, mediates acquisition of trace eyelid responses; in some rabbits extinction was prevented, whereas in others it was largely unaffected. We also show that cerebellar mechanisms can mediate extinction when noncerebellar mechanisms are bypassed. Together, these observations indicate that trace eyelid responses can be extinguished via processes operating at more than one site, one in the cerebellum and one upstream in forebrain. The relative contributions of these sites may vary from animal to animal and situation to situation.
Bladder Diverticulitis: A Case Report
Authors: Silberman Michael , Jeanmonod Rebecca
Published: September 2011

Bladder diverticulum, an outpouching of the mucosa through the muscular wall of the bladder, is a multifactorial disease process that can be either acquired or congenital. Although small diverticuli are usually asymptomatic, a large diverticulum may result in hematuria, urinary tract infection, acute abdomen due to its rupture, acute urinary retention, or neoplasm formation. We describe the case of an elderly gentleman who presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain and was ultimately diagnosed with bladder diverticulitis, a disease not previously described in the literature.
Factors Influencing the Abundance of the Side Population in a Human Myeloma Cell Line
Authors: Mo Sui-Lin , Li Jia , Loh Yen S. , Brown Ross D. , Smith Adrian L. , Chen Yuling , Joshua Douglas , Roufogalis Basil D. , Li George Q. , Fan Kei , Ng Michelle C. H. , Sze Daniel Man-yuen
Published: September 2011

Side population (SP) refers to a group of cells, which is capable to efflux Hoechst 33342, a DNA-binding dye. SP cells exist both in normal and tumor tissues. Although SP abundance has been used as an indicator for disease prognostic and drug screening in many research projects, few studies have systematically examined the factors influencing SP analysis. In this study we aim to develop a more thorough understanding of the multiple factors involved in SP analysis including Hoechst 33342 staining and cell culture. RPMI-8226, a high SP percentage (SP%) human myeloma cell line was employed here. The results showed that SP% was subject to staining conditions including: viable cell proportion, dye concentration, staining cell density, incubation duration, staining volume, and mix interval. In addition, SP% was highest in day one after passage, while dropped steadily over time. This study shows that both staining conditions and culture duration can significantly affect SP%. In this case, any conclusions based on SP% should be interpreted cautiously. The relation between culture duration and SP% suggests that the incidence of SP cells may be related to cell proliferation and cell cycle phase. Maintaining these technical variables consistently is essential in SP research.
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Risk of Childhood Overweight and Obesity in Offspring: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kim Shin Y. , England J. Lucinda , Sharma J. Andrea , Njoroge Terry
Published: September 2011

We systematically reviewed research examining the association between gestational diabetes (GDM) and childhood overweight and obesity. We identified studies from three sources: (1) a PubMed search of articles published between January 1990–January 2011, (2) reference lists of publications from the PubMed search, and (3) reference lists of review articles. We included studies that examined GDM separately from pregestational diabetes and childhood overweight or obesity defined as BMI > 85th or 95th percentile. A total of 12 studies were included in the systematic review. Crude odds ratios for the relationship between GDM and childhood overweight or obesity ranged from 0.7 to 6.3; in 8 studies, the associations were not statistically significant. In only 3 studies were results adjusted for any confounders; in the 2 that adjusted for prepregnancy obesity, the GDM and childhood overweight or obesity associations were attenuated and not statistically significant after adjustment. This paper demonstrates inconsistent evidence of an association between GDM and offspring overweight and obesity due to the methodological limitations of existing studies. Recommendations for future research are presented, which address methodological challenges.
Effect of Surfactants on Association Characteristics of Di- and Triblock Copolymers of Oxyethylene and Oxybutylene in Aqueous Solutions: Dilute Solution Phase Diagrams, SANS, and Viscosity Measurements at Different Temperatures
Authors: Punjabi Sanjay H. , Sastry Nandhibatla V. , Aswal Vinod K. , Goyal Prem S.
Published: September 2011

The interactions in poly(oxyethylene) (E) – poly(oxybutylene) (B) of EB or EBE type block copolymers-sodium dodoecyl sulfate (SDS) or dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide (DTAB) and/or t-octylphenoxy polyethoxyethanol, (TX-100) have been monitored as a function of surfactant concentration and temperature. The addition of ionic surfactants to copolymer micellar solutions in general induced not only shape transition from spherical to prolate ellipsoids at 30∘C in the copolymer micelles but also destabilize them and even suppress the micelle formation at high surfactant loading. DTAB destabilizes the copolymer micelles more than SDS. TX-100, being nonionic, however, forms stable mixed micelles. The block copolymer-surfactant complexes are hydrophilic in nature and are characterized by high turbid and cloud points. Triblock copolymer micelles got easily destabilized than the diblock copolymer ones, indicating the importance of the interaction between the hydrophilic E chains and surfactants. The effects of destabilization of the copolymer micelles are more dominating than the micellar growth at elevated temperatures, which is otherwise predominant in case of copolymer micelles alone.
Comparison of Depth of Anesthesia in Different Parts of Maxilla When Only Buccal Anesthesia Was Done for Maxillary Teeth Extraction
Authors: Isik Kubilay , Kalayci Abdullah , Durmus Ercan
Published: September 2011

Objective. Recently, some authors reported that maxillary teeth could be extracted without using palatal anesthesia, but they did not clearly specify the extracted teeth. This is important, because apparently the local anesthetic solution infiltrates the maxilla and achieves a sufficient anesthesia in the palatal side. Thus, thickness of the bone may affect the depth of anesthesia. The aim of this study was to compare the depth of anesthesia in different parts of the maxilla when only a buccal infiltration anesthesia was done.Patients and Method. The maxilla was divided into anterior, premolar, and molar regions. In each region, 15 teeth were extracted with a single buccal infiltration. The patient marked the pain level on a numerical rating scale.Results. Anesthesia depth was sufficient and was not significantly different () among three maxillary regions.Conclusion. Except for surgical interventions, all maxillary teeth can be extracted using only a buccal infiltration anesthesia.
Estimation and Properties of a Time‐Varying GQARCH(1,1)‐M Model
Authors: Anyfantaki Sofia , Demos Antonis
Published: September 2011

Time‐varying GARCH‐M models are commonly used in econometrics and financial economics. Yet the recursive nature of the conditional variance makes exact likelihood
analysis of these models computationally infeasible. This paper outlines the issues and suggests to employ a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm which allows the calculation of a classical estimator via the simulated EM algorithm or a simulated Bayesian solution in only O(T) computational operations, where T is the sample size. Furthermore, the theoretical dynamic properties of a time‐varying GQARCH(1,1)‐M are derived. We discuss them and apply the suggested Bayesian estimation to three major stock markets.
Cephalic Tetanus: A Case Report
Authors: Alhaji M. A. , Abdulhafiz U. , Atuanya C. I. , Bukar F. L.
Published: September 2011

A case report of cephalic tetanus in a 2-year-old girl who was not immunized against tetanus following suppurative otitis media (SOM) is presented. This case is reported because of the rarity of cephalic tetanus associated with high mortality, to highlight the risk of cephalic tetanus as sequelae of SOM and the need for proper aural care and prompt treatment of SOM. Primary immunization of all eligible children as well as booster vaccination at appropriate time as an effective management strategy for tetanus is emphasized.
Thyrotoxic Periodic Paralysis: Case Reports and an Up-to-Date Review of the Literature
Authors: Lulsegged Abbi , Wlodek Christina , Rossi Michela
Published: September 2011

Objectives. To describe 2 cases of thyrotoxic periodic paralysis.Methods. We report of 2 cases of thyrotoxic periodic paralysis in 2 individuals from 2 different backgrounds with emphasis on their presentation and treatment. We also conducted a literature search to put together an update review of thyrotoxic periodic paralysis.Results. A 47-year-old Chinese and 28-year-old Caucasian male presented with profound yet reversible weakness associated with hypokalemia on admission bloods and thyrotoxicosis. Both were given definitive therapy to prevent recurrence of attacks with any future relapse of thyrotoxicosis.Conclusion. Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a rare but potentially serious complication of thyrotoxicosis resulting in temporary but severe muscle weakness. Recent discovery of a novel mutation in the KCNJ18 gene which codes for an inwardly rectifying potassium channel and is controlled by thyroid hormones may provide greater insight into the pathogenesis of TPP.
Primary Small Cell Carcinoma of the Larynx: Report of a Rare Tumor
Authors: Singh Harmeet , Chauhan Ashok
Published: September 2011

Primary small cell carcinoma of larynx is a rare tumor representing less than 0.5% of all laryngeal cancers. This is one of the most lethal of all malignancies associated with frequent early widespread metastases and dismal prognosis. We report a case of a 60-year-old patient with small cell carcinoma of the subglottic larynx, who presented with hepatic metastasis.
The Emerging Epidemic of Obesity, Diabetes, and the Metabolic Syndrome in China
Authors: Shen Jia , Goyal Abhinav , Sperling Laurence
Published: September 2011

China is one of the fastest developing countries in the world. Rapid economic progress has resulted in changes to both diet and physical activity. New found prosperity, increased urban migration, and the adoption of sedentary lifestyles by an aging Chinese population have resulted in a dramatic shift in disease burden—from infectious to chronic. Modern Chinese find themselves increasingly afflicted with the same noncommunicable chronic diseases typical of industrialized nations. Today, cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of both morbidity and mortality, affecting both rural and urban Chinese. The rising incidence of cardiovascular disease has been fueled by an epidemic of cardiometabolic risk factors. While hypertension and smoking have received considerable spotlight, little attention has been given to obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Their increasing prevalence is the focus of this paper.
Lactococcus lactisNCC 2287 Alleviates Food Allergic Manifestations in Sensitized Mice by Reducing IL-13 Expression Specifically in the Ileum
Authors: Zuercher Adrian W. , Weiss Marietta , Holvoet Sébastien , Moser Mireille , Moussu Hélène , van Overtvelt Laurence , Horiot Stéphane , Moingeon Philippe , Nutten Sophie , Prioult Guénolée , Singh Anurag , Mercenier Annick
Published: September 2011

Objective. Utilizing a food allergy murine model, we have investigated the intrinsic antiallergic potential of theLactococcus lactisNCC 2287 strain.Methods. BALB/c mice were sensitized at weekly intervals with ovalbumin (OVA) plus cholera toxin (CT) by the oral route for 7 weeks. In this model, an oral challenge with a high dose of OVA at the end of the sensitization period leads to clinical symptoms.Lactococcus lactisNCC 2287 was given to mice via the drinking water during sensitization (prevention phase) or after sensitization (management phase).Results.Lactococcus lactisNCC 2287 administration to sensitized mice strikingly reduced allergic manifestations in the management phase upon challenge, when compared to control mice. No preventive effect was observed with the strain.Lactococcus lactisNCC 2287 significantly decreased relative expression levels of the Th-2 cytokine, IL-13, and associated chemokines CCL11 (eotaxin-1) and CCL17 (TARC) in the ileum. No effect was observed in the jejunum.Conclusion/Significance. These results taken together designateLactococcus lactisNCC 2287 as a candidate probiotic strain appropriate in the management of allergic symptoms.
The Effect of Alcohol on Postprandial and Fasting Triglycerides
Authors: Van de Wiel Albert
Published: September 2011

Alcohol has a significant additive effect on the postprandial triglyceride peak when it accompanies a meal containing fat, especially saturated fat. This results from a decrease in the breakdown of chylomicrons and VLDL remnants due to an acute inhibitory effect of alcohol on lipoprotein lipase activity. Furthermore, alcohol increases the synthesis of large VLDL particles in the liver, which is the main source of triglycerides in the hypertriglyceridemia associated with chronic excessive alcohol intake. In case of chronic consumption, lipoprotein lipase activity seems to adapt itself. The effect of alcohol on adipose tissues is less clear. Sometimes, a severe hypertriglyceridemia induced by alcohol (SHIBA) can be observed, especially in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and/or obesity increasing the risk of pancreatitis.