bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavior of a welded wire wall with poor quality, cohesive–friction backfills on soft Bangkok clay: a case study
Authors: Bergado D. T. , Shivashankar R. , Sampaco C. L. , Alfaro M. C. , Anderson L. R.
Published: May 2008

A full-scale and extensively instrumented experimental mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) wall with steel grid reinforcements was built on soft clay foundation. Three different locally available poor to marginal quality backfills were used in each of three sections along its length. The soft Bangkok clay in the subsoil is about 6 m thick, overlain by a surficial 2 m thick weathered clay crust and underlain by a layer of stiff clay. It was observed that the amount of subsoil movement greatly influenced the variation in the vertical pressure beneath the wall, as well as the tension in the reinforcement. Pullout resistances in the field were also found to be very much affected by the arching effects due to the presence of inextensible reinforcement in combination with the subsoil movements. The wall showed no signs of instability both during construction and in the postconstruction phases, despite the large settlements and lateral movements. Its overall performance has been satisfactory. It was concluded that the steel grid reinforcement can be effectively used to reinforce poor to marginal quality backfill in walls and embankments on soft clay foundations. Key words: mechanically stabilized earth, inextensible reinforcements, soft clay foundation, poor quality backfills, base pressures, settlements, lateral movements, lateral pressures, compaction, arching.
Critical gradients and pressures in dense swelling clays
Authors: Dixon D. A. , Gray M. N. , Hnatiw D.
Published: May 2008

Uncertainties exist with regard to the applicability of Darcy's law to dense swelling clays. These clays may not allow water to pass through them when the hydraulic gradient is below a critical value. Preliminary results are presented from a series of constant-head permeability tests on dry, confined, densely compacted bentonite clays. The tests are intended to clarify the applicability of Darcy's law to dense bentonites: these materials may be used for isolation of nuclear fuel wastes in deep geologic disposal vaults. On wetting and with increasing hydraulic gradient, the clays develop swelling pressures, and some specimens appear to exhibit a critical hydraulic gradient or pressure. Below these gradients and pressures, water does not appear to flow through the materials. Once the apparent critical gradient is exceeded, water flux through the materials increases linearly and directly with gradient. Water continues to flow if the gradient is subsequently decreased to values below the original critical value. The possible importance of this finding to effective stress testing of dense bentonite materials is briefly discussed. The hydraulic performance of dense bentonite clay barriers over the range of conditions anticipated in a nuclear-fuel-waste disposal vault remains uncertain. Studies of material behaviour within the anticipated constraints of emplacement state and hydraulic boundary conditions are required. Key words : clay, bentonite, Darcy's law, effective stress, compacted clay, swelling pressure.
Estimation of total settlement of embankments by field measurements
Authors: Matyas Elmer L , Rothenburg Leo
Published: May 2008

In the absence of compressibility data from laboratory tests, the total primary consolidation settlement of a structure founded on clay can be estimated from settlement measurements taken over a period of time. In this note, the hyperbolic and Asaoka methods are applied to a case history where an embankment fill was placed on a clay exhibiting secondary compression. It is shown that significant inaccuracies in timesettlement predictions can result if an appropriate time factor versus degree of consolidation relationship is not taken into account.

Key words: primary and secondary compressibility, coefficient of consolidation, field measurements, hyperbolic method, Asaoka method.
Role of Sporormiellasimilis as a potential bioprotectant of Populustremuloides wood against the blue-stain fungus Ophiostomapiliferum
Authors: Chakravarty P. , Trifonov L. , Hutchison L.J. , Hiratsuka Y , Ayer W.A.
Published: May 2008

Interactions between Sporormiellasimilis Khan & Cain and the blue-stain fungus Ophiostomapiliferum (Fr.) H. & P. Sydow, both isolated from Populustremuloides Michx. wood, were investigated. Sporormiellasimilis significantly reduced the growth of O. piliferum in vitro when grown in dual culture, in addition to inhibiting the growth of O. piliferum on agar media and in liquid culture when treated with a culture filtrate of S. similis. Ophiostomapiliferum failed to colonize P. tremuloides wood chips when they were preinoculated with S. similis. Ten known compounds were isolated and identified from the culture filtrate of S. similis. These compounds showed varied fungitoxic effect against O. piliferum at concentrations of 1 to 1000 μg/mL. The potential for S. similis as a biological control agent against O. piliferum on P. tremuloides is discussed.
Balsam woolly adelgid (Homoptera: Adelgidae): effects on growth and abnormal wood production in Fraser fir seedlings as influenced by seedling genetics, insect source, and soil source
Authors: Hollingsworth Robert G. , Hain Fred P.
Published: May 2008

Fraser fir, Abiesfraseri (Pursh) Poir., seedlings were grown in the greenhouse and at four field sites in the southern Appalachian Mountains to study the effects of infestation by the balsam woolly adelgid (BWA), Adelgespiceae (Ratz.). Swelling in the main stem was used as an indicator of abnormal wood (i.e., "rotholz") production induced by infestation. At three of the four field sites, the main stems of infested seedlings were significantly more swollen than those of uninfested seedlings. The amount of swelling caused by BWA generally was not affected by seed source (half-sib family), soil source (soil from higher or lower elevations), or interactions of these variables. At two of four field sites, infestation was associated with a significant increase in root:shoot ratio. Variability in root:shoot ratios and total dry weights of seedlings was influenced by interactions of infestation, soil source, and seed source. This result demonstrates that both tree genetics and environment play a significant role in the growth responses of infested Fraser fir seedlings. Results from the greenhouse study indicated that BWA might be represented by two or more biotypes in the southern Appalachians. Shoot weights and diameter increases were relatively large for Mount Mitchell seedlings infested by BWA from Mount Rogers, and relatively small when infested by BWA from Mount Mitchell. For seedlings from Mount Rogers, the converse was true. Overall, these results suggest that environment is probably more important than tree or insect genetics in explaining why so many infested trees have died in the Black Mountains of North Carolina.
SUPERSYMMETRIC U(1) GAUGE REALIZATION OF THE DARK SCALAR DOUBLET MODEL OF RADIATIVE NEUTRINO MASS
Authors: MA ERNEST
Published: May 2008

Adding a second scalar doublet (η+, η0) and three neutral singlet fermions N1, 2, 3 to the Standard Model of particle interactions with a new Z2 symmetry, it has been shown that [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] is a good dark-matter candidate and seesaw neutrino masses are generated radiatively. A supersymmetric U(1) gauge extension of this new idea is proposed, which enforces the usual R-parity of the Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model, and allows this new Z2 symmetry to emerge as a discrete remnant.
BOND-VALENCE PARAMETERS OF Sc AND Y METALS
Authors: LI XIAOBO , XIE YOUQING
Published: May 2008

Based on the energy and shape (ES) method, the bond-valence (BV) parameters of Sc and Y are determined. It gives the single-bond radius, the categories and magnitude of valence electron and bond properties including bond length, bond energy and bond valence. The single-bond radius values are 1.3257 and 1.4628 Å for Sc and Y . Their valence parameters are [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] respectively. The electric conductivity of Sc and Y metals was qualitatively explained by their valence parameters. Bond-valence parameters of Sc and Y metals are more refined and reliable than Pauling's and Brewer's.
ON STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS IN QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY
Authors: TRUSHECHKIN A. S. , VOLOVICH I. V.
Published: May 2008

Quantum cryptography is used to find practical and useful applications. Recently, some first quantum cryptographic solutions became available on the market. For clients, it is important to be able to compare the quality and properties of the proposed products. To this end, one needs to elaborate on specifications and standards of solutions in quantum cryptography. We propose and discuss a list of characteristics for the specification, which includes numerical evaluations of the security of solution and can be considered as a standard for quantum key distribution solutions. The list is based on the average time of key generation, depending on some parameters. In the simplest case for the user, the list includes three characteristics: the security degree, the length of keys and the key refresh rate.
TELEPORTATION OF UNKNOWN STATE BY QUTRITS
Authors: CHAMOLI ARTI , BHANDARI C. M.
Published: May 2008

Quantum entanglement, like other resources, is now considered to be a resource. It can be produced, concentrated if required, swapped, transported and consumed. During recent years, various schemes of quantum state teleportation have been proposed using different types of quantum channels. Not restricting to qubit based systems, qutrit states and channels have also been of considerable interest. In the present paper, we investigate the teleportation of an unknown single qutrit state, as well as a two qutrit state through a three qutrit quantum channel, along with the required operations to recover the state. This is further generalized to the case of teleportation of an n-qutrit system.
BOOK REVIEW: "INTRODUCTION TO QUANTUM CONTROL AND DYNAMICS", BY DOMENICO D'ALESSANDRO, CHAPMAN & HALL/CRC
Authors: GONG JIANGBIN
Published: May 2008

With the importance of quantum information science being widely recognized, introductory textbooks on quantum control will be required by many students from diversified backgrounds. Intended for undergraduate and beginning graduate students in mathematics, engineering, and physics, this book by Dr. D'Alessandro is the first mathematician-written textbook on the subject of quantum control. Representative quantum control problems from various contexts are introduced with clarity and strictness. Emphasis is placed on the applications of Lie algebra and Lie group theory in quantum control.
ENTANGLEMENT IN THE DYNAMICAL EVOLUTION OF COMPOSITE FERMIONIC SYSTEMS
Authors: OLIVEIRA V. C. G. , SANTOS H. A. B. , TORRES L. A. M. , SOUZA A. M. C.
Published: May 2008

The time that a given initial quantum state requires to evolve to an orthogonal state is used to explore the role played by entanglement in the dynamical evolution of composite fermionic systems. We study two different applications of free spin fermions in a four site cluster. It is shown that through selection of the hopping matrix elements, the relationship between entanglement and speed of quantum evolution can be controlled. Consequently, the result recently pointed out [J. Batle et al., Phys. Rev. A72 (2005) 032337] represents only a particular choice of the energy spectrum of the system.
Characterization of the Catalyst Layer in a PEMFC During Subzero Operation
Authors: Lee Stephen , Roberts Joy , Li Jing , Ye Siyu
Published: May 2008

In-situ isothermal constant voltage (ICV) experiments and stack freeze start-ups at -25{degree sign}C, in combination with ex-situ image analysis (Cryo-FESEM) has been used to investigate the behaviour of product water at subzero temperatures. Use of these tools enables more small scale, rapid material screening to design membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) with improved subzero operation capability. Cryo-FESEM images at different stages of sustained subzero operation suggests that any ice present prior to operation melts and migrates away from the membrane towards the GDL where it is frozen along with newly produced product water. More and more water is frozen until reactants can no longer reach the catalyst sites.
Progress of Highly Durable MEA for PEMFC Under High Temperature and Low Humidity Conditions
Authors: Endoh Eiji
Published: May 2008

The world's first highly durable PFSA polymer based MEA for PEM Fuel Cells, which can operate for more than 6,000 hours at 120ºC and 50% relative humidity, has been developed. The MEA is comprised of a newly invented composite polymer (NPC polymer), which has exceptional chemical stability against degradation caused by the hydroxyl radical even at 120ºC. This achievement has opened up a new era of operating PEM Fuel Cells in the temperature range of near freezing to 120ºC for an extended period of time.
Liquid Water Transport in PEM Fuel Cells
Authors: Benziger Jay B. , Whitaker Tamara , Kimball Erin , Kevrekidis Ioannis G.
Published: May 2008

Liquid water transport and flooding in PEM fuel cells is gravity dependent. Liquid water accumulates at the cathode/membrane interface until a hydraulic pressure sufficient overcomes the hydrophobic surface energy pushes the water through the largest pores of the Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL). Liquid water drops grow on the GDL surface until sufficient force overcomes the interfacial tension between the water in pore and the drop on the surface. When the gas flow channels are horizontal, with the cathode facing down, gravity pulls the water drops from the GDL surface permitting stable fuel cell operation. When the cathode faces up the water drops accumulate on the GDL surface creating a mass transfer resistance that cause the local current density to fluctuate.
Development of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell for High Temperature Operation
Authors: Shinoki Toshio , Yoshioka Shoji , Matsumoto Shuichi
Published: May 2008

In the present study, humidifying dependence was examined at 85{degree sign}C in the cell temperature to improve MEA to which high water retentiveness was applied in the catalytic layer. The improved MEA showed higher cell voltage from the low humidifying temperature to the saturated temperature condition within all ranges compared with the previous MEA. Moreover, it successfully reduced the decreasing rate of the effective surface area of the cathode catalyst in the electrode. A 1 kW class stack to which an improved MEA, a Lossnay humidifier, and a separator plate were applied showed good performance.
Development of a High Performance Separator for PEFC by Visualization Technique
Authors: Sugiura Kimihiko , Shiramizu Toshiki , Yamauchi Tatsuya , Yamauchi Makoto , Matsuzaki Satoru , Kada Norio , Itoh Yasuhiko
Published: May 2008

The PEFC has water management issues such as flooding, where condensate blocks pores of Gas-Diffusion-Layer, and plugging, where condensate blocks the gas channels. Flooding/plugging in the cathode is influenced by the anode channel through the mem-brane. Moreover, the water transport phenomenon through the membrane is affected by the location of the flooding/plugging in each gas channel. We aim to elucidate the water transport phe-nomenon through the membrane by visualizing both electrode re-actions. Moreover, we develop a high performance separator as a proposal of an optimum water management method. This high per-formance separator is composed of two channels for gas and drain-age, and a Water-Adsorption-Layer between GDL and the current collector. The pore diameter and porosity of WAL are optimized by visualization technique. Ultimately, a 0.9 μm MPD WAL has good performance, and if it is adopted in high performance separa-tors, the plugging/flooding phenomena can be controlled on PEFC.
Low Pressure Test Facility for Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells and First Measurements
Authors: Schulze Mathias , Gülzow Erich , Friedrich K. A.
Published: May 2008

The electrical power consumption in aircraft will increase significantly in the next generations of aircraft. The use of fuel cells in aircrafts allows a more environmentally friendly generation of electrical energy with a higher efficiency than the present electrical power generator in aircraft. Fuel cells in aircrafts will be operated under special conditions and in particular the low pressures conditions are of interest. For this purpose at the DLR test facilities for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEFC) have been built-up and first experiments under low pressure conditions were performed. For a better understanding of the electrochemical behaviour, a single cell was operated at various pressures and the electrochemical performance was investigated in combination with locally resolved current density distribution measurements. Under low-pressure conditions the water balance in the fuel cell is the crucial factor to explain fuel cell performance.
A Semi-Empirical Method for Electrically Modeling of Fuel Cell: Executed On a Direct Methanol Fuel Cell
Authors: Wang Yang , Zheng Jim P. , Au George , Plichta Edward J.
Published: May 2008

In this paper, a novel semi-empirical modeling method to mathematically derive a nonlinear equivalent circuit from a special group of impedance fuel cell models is proposed. As an example, a 5-cm2 direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) was modeled by this method. The derived equivalent circuit is composed of lumped nonlinear resistors, capacitors and an inductor. The nonlinear circuit has an impedance equivalent to the target fuel cell in various operating conditions and provides a good approximation of the static and transient behaviors of the fuel cell. The equivalent circuit fuel cell model was validated by comparing its numerical simulation results with its polarization curve and the dynamic behavior of the target DMFC. These comparisons were performed while the DMFC was operating under square current pulses with different upper and low current levels.
Development of Melting Seals Embedded Electrical Conduction Paths for Micro-SOFCs
Authors: Suda Seiichi , Kawahara Koichi , Jono Kaori , Matsumiya Masahiko
Published: May 2008

Small interconnects and gas-tight seals are required when micro-scale cells or stacks are accumulated for the construction of micro-SOFC. We have developed gas-tight sealing devices embedded electrical conduction paths for electrode-supported micro-SOFCs. The sealing devices were prepared by combining insulating glass precursor sealing materials and conductive Ag-Si-Ge alloy. The glass precursor material was prepared with two kinds of spherical particles. The alloy sealing material was prepared by metal rolling various Ag-Si-Ge alloys in order to attain oxidation resistance at 650oC in air. The bi-layer seals composed of the glass precursor seals and the Ag-Si-Ge alloy seals were arranged between porous electrodes and firing the seals at 850oC in air resulted in crack-free interfaces of alloy seals/glass seals, alloy seals/electrode, and glass seals/electrodes. The arrangement of both the seals would lead to be the interface containing adequate electric conduction paths for high-performance micro SOFCs.
The Gd2-yLayZr2O7 Solid Solution as a New Electrolyte for High and Intermediate-Temperature SOFC's
Authors: Diaz-Guillen Mario R. , Diaz-Guillen Jose A. , Fuentes Antonio , Padmasree Karinjilottu P. , Santamaria Jacobo , Leon Carlos
Published: May 2008

Different compositions in the Gd2-yLayZr2O7 solid solution (0 {less than or equal to} y {less than or equal to} 1) were prepared at room-temperature, by mechanically milling stoichiometric mixtures of the corresponding oxides. We found that irrespective of their lanthanum content, as-prepared powder samples consist of single-phase anion deficient fluorite materials, although post-milling thermal treatments at 1200ºC facilitates the long-range ordering of cations and anion vacancies characteristic of pyrochlores for y {greater than or equal to} 0.4. Interestingly, activation energy for oxygen migration in the series decreases from 1.13 {plus minus} 0.02 eV (Gd2Zr2O7) to 0.84 {plus minus} 0.03 eV (GdLaZr2O7) as La-content and the RA/RB ratio increase. These results are explained in terms of weaker ion-ion interactions in better ordered and highlight the importance of structural ordering/disordering in determining the dynamics of mobile oxygen ions.
Polarization Analysis and Microstructural Characterization of SOFC Anode and Electrolyte Supported Cells
Authors: Lanzini Andrea , Leone Pierluigi , Santarelli Masimo , Asinari Pietro , Calì Michele
Published: May 2008

The paper deals with the testing of performances of SOFC planar cells having as mechanical support either the anode or the electrolyte. Polarization traces at different temperature and hydrogen flow have been drawn to assess the electrochemical behavior and the limiting polarization factors of anode-supported and electrolyte-supported cells. The experimental data from polarization tests has then been summarized and analyzed through a parameter estimation technique, which allowed us to compare the performances of each cell throughout some defined macroscopic parameters, each one being referred and distinctive of a certain polarization overvoltage occurring during a SOFC operation. SEM and optical micrographs have been also collected in order to characterize the fine microstructure of the tested cells, and to discuss the macroscopic polarization results with reference to the microstructure.
SECA Coal-Based Multi-MW SOFC Power Plant Development
Authors: Doyon Jody , Ghezel-Ayagh Hossein , Walzak James , Junker Sven T. , Patel Dilip , Adriani Allen , Huang Peng , Stauffer David , Vaysman Vlad , White Jay S. , Borglum Brian , Tang Eric , Petri Randy , Sishtla Chakravarthy
Published: May 2008

Coal is one of the primary sources of electric power generation in the world. FuelCell Energy is developing a cost-competitive, highly efficient, multi-MW solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) power system using coal-derived synthesis gas. Design of the coal-based SOFC plant is to include greater than 90 percent CO2 separation from the coal-derived syngas as a prerequisite to carbon sequestration. Focus of the coal-based SOFC power plant development is on SOFC cell and stack scale-up and optimization, stack manufacturing capacity development, and MW class module engineering design and development. Simultaneously, power plant engineering is being conducted for design of a baseline multi-MW (~400 MWe) power plant with near zero emissions. Currently, scale-up of SOFC cell area and stack size (number of cells) and fuel cell improvements for both performance and longevity in operation are being implemented in the core fuel cell technology. Also, preliminary engineering design and analysis for a 5 MW proof-of-concept SOFC power plant system is being conducted.
Stability Tests of a 5 kWeq LPG Hydrogen Generator for PEFC
Authors: Cipitì Francesco , Recupero Vincenzo , Pino Lidia , Vita Antonio , Laganà Massimo
Published: May 2008

This paper presents the experimental activities on a pre-commercial hydrogen generator unit HYGen II, for Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell (PEFC) in residential applications. The unit is able to convert light hydrocarbons (methane, propane, LPG, butane) with a nominal hydrogen production of 5 Nm3h-1 and a maximum hydrogen production of 8.5 Nm3h-1. Stability tests with a proprietary Pt/CeO2 catalyst for the C3H8 autothermal reforming (ATR) step, coupled with commercial catalyst for intermediate water gas shift (ITWS) and preferential oxidation (PROX), have been carried out. Propane conversion of 99.8 % associated with total oxygen conversion, in absence of byproducts has been evidenced. A CO concentration below to 10 ppm was observed in the first 140 h of operation. Subsequently, a performance decrease in the ITWS step determined a rapid increase in the CO concentration.
Carbon Dioxide Recycling by High Temperature Co-electrolysis and Hydrocarbon Synthesis
Authors: Hartvigsen J , Elangovan S , Frost L , Nickens Anthony , Stoots Carl M. , O'Brien James E. , Herring J S.
Published: May 2008

The materials used in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) can be used to produce synthesis gas from inputs of carbon dioxide, steam, and electricity. Carbon dioxide can be recovered from concentrated sources, such as fossil power plants. The electricity should come from a non-carbon based energy source (i.e. nuclear, solar, wind, biomass, or hydropower). Ceramatec and the Idaho National Laboratory have demonstrated high temperature co-electrolysis of CO2 and steam to produce synthesis gas. If a source of high temperature process heat is available, the endothermic electrolysis reactions can utilize both thermal and electrical inputs such that the conversion efficiency within the solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) is 100%. The synthesis gas produced at Ceramatec in a SOEC has been fed through a Fischer Tropsch reactor to produce hydrocarbon fuels. Widespread implementation of synthetic fuel production from CO2 will enable greater use of intermittent renewable energy sources.
DFC/T® Power Plant: From Sub-Megawatt Demonstration to Multi-Megawatt Design
Authors: Ghezel-Ayagh Hossein , Walzak James , Junker Sven T. , Patel Dilip , Michelson Fred , Adriani Allen
Published: May 2008

FuelCell Energy, Inc. (FCE) recently completed a field demonstration of its packaged sub-megawatt (sub-MW) class Direct FuelCell/Turbine® (DFC/T®) alpha power plant unit. The power plant achieved a record-breaking electrical efficiency of 56% (based on the lower heating value of natural gas fuel), unmatched anywhere in the industry by distributed power generation products in its size range. Such an ultra-high efficiency is traditionally expected from large combined cycle systems (400 MW or greater which are too large for distributed generation applications). Emission monitoring tests of the DFC/T system have shown compliance with the most stringent environmental regulatory standards. Achievement of ultra-high efficiency reveals the potential of the DFC/T concept for substantially reducing power generation cost while maintaining the green benefits of near-zero emissions to the environment.
Direct Fuel Cell (DFC) Improvements Based on Field Experience
Authors: Farooque Mohammad , Venkataraman Ramki , Rauseo Anthony , Carlson Glenn , Berntsen George , Leo Anthony
Published: May 2008

FuelCell Energy, Inc. (FCE) is a leading developer of high temperature fuel cells. Founded on thirty years of high temperature fuel cell technology development experience, the company has commercialized its Direct Fuel Cell (DFC®) power plants to provide high efficiency ultra-clean power to commercial, industrial, municipal, and utility customers. FCE currently has DFC® plants at over 60 sites worldwide using a variety of fuels including renewable wastewater gas, biogas from beer processing, as well as natural gas and other hydrocarbon fuels. FCE monitors all plants remotely and can also control operation from the central operation center in Danbury, CT as necessary. FCE services a large part of its fleet under Long Term Service Agreements (LTSA). Data collected from the plants operating under diverse operating and field conditions around the world have presented an opportunity to investigate the performance variability of the plants and fine-tune the key components design, understand the key factors affecting plant downtime and take appropriate corrective actions to enhance availability. Founding on these and parallel technology development activities, FCE has introduced in late 2006 improved products with higher performance, fine-tuned operation guidelines, increased reliability, and at a lower cost. As part of the product overall cost reduction initiatives, the stack material cost has been reduced while the output has been increased by 20%. Further improvements in cell designs to enable additional increase in output are being developed for introduction into the product stacks at a later date.
Electrochemical Nucleation and Growth of Copper on Resistive Substrates
Authors: Radisic Aleksandar , Boelen Pieter , Rosenfeld Aron , Hernandez Jose Luis , Beyer Gerald , Vereecken Philippe
Published: May 2008

We have studied electrochemical nucleation and growth of copper on ruthenium and ruthenium-based substrates using galvanostatic methods. We show that potential-time transients recorded during galvanostatic deposition of Cu on Ru can be used to study the effects of additives, deposition parameters, and substrate pre-treatment on Cu island density, and help determine experimental parameters needed to facilitate high island densities and quick sweep of a Cu film front across the resistive substrates.
Electroplating of Copper-Alumina Nanocomposite Films with an Impinging Jet Electrode
Authors: Thiemig Denny , Osborne Steven , Sweet Wendi , Talbot J.
Published: May 2008

Nanocomposite films of copper-alumina were made with an unsubmerged impinging jet electrode system for a wide range of process variables. The process variables investigated were current density of 5-200 mA/cm2, electrolyte flow rate of 0.5-7.0 L/min, copper sulfate concentrations of 0.25 - 1 M with pH of either 0.8 or 1.5, and particle loading of 50 nm diameter alumina powder of up to 160 g/L. The amount of particle incorporation was determined using electrogravimetric measurements as well as EDX analysis. The microstructure and hardness of the films were studied. A loss of texture and a decrease in copper crystallite size was found with increasing current density and due to the particle incorporation. Increase in the microhardness of the films correlate with changes in the microstructure, which were dependent upon the deposition conditions and also particle incorporation.
Faster Growth of Cu-Sn Layers Through Reduction-Diffusion Method Using Ionic Liquid Bath at Medium-Low Temperatures
Authors: Murase Kuniaki , Ito Akira , Sugimura Hiroyuki
Published: May 2008

Electrochemical alloying of Cu substrates with Sn through a reduction-diffusion method was investigated using an ionic liquid, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis[(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl]amide, as a solvent for an electrolytic bath. The use of the ionic liquid made it possible to raise the processing temperature up to 190 åC and form silver-gray Cu-Sn "speculum metal" layers faster than with an aliphatic quaternary ammonium-based ionic liquid, trimethyl-n-hexylammonium bis[(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl]amide. The layers obtained at 170-190 åC showed clear composition gradients where the outer and inner parts of the Cu-Sn layer have compositions corresponding to Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn phases, respectively.
A novel signaling pathway of ADP-ribosyl cyclase activation by angiotensin II in adult rat cardiomyocytes
Authors: Gul Rukhsana , Kim Seon-Young , Park Kwang-Hyun , Kim Byung-Ju , Kim Se-Jin , Im Mie-Jae , Kim Uh-Hyun
Published: May 2008

ADP-ribosyl cyclase (ADPR-cyclase) produces a Ca2+-mobilizing second messenger, cADP-ribose (cADPR), from NAD+. In this study, we investigated the molecular basis of ADPR-cyclase activation in the ANG II signaling pathway and cellular responses in adult rat cardiomyocytes. The results showed that ANG II generated biphasic intracellular Ca2+concentration increases that include a rapid transient Ca2+elevation via inositol trisphosphate (IP3) receptor and sustained Ca2+rise via the activation of L-type Ca2+channel and opening of ryanodine receptor. ANG II-induced sustained Ca2+rise was blocked by a cADPR antagonistic analog, 8-bromo-cADPR, indicating that sustained Ca2+rise is mediated by cADPR. Supporting the notion, ADPR-cyclase activity and cADPR production by ANG II were increased in a time-dependent manner. Application of pharmacological inhibitors and immunological analyses revealed that cADPR formation was activated by sequential activation of Src, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase)/protein kinase B (Akt), phospholipase C (PLC)-γ1, and IP3-mediated Ca2+signal. Inhibitors of these signaling molecules not only completely abolished the ANG II-induced Ca2+signals but also inhibited cADPR formation. Application of the cADPR antagonist and inhibitors of upstream signaling molecules of ADPR-cyclase inhibited ANG II-stimulated hypertrophic responses, which include nuclear translocation of Ca2+/calcineurin-dependent nuclear factor of activated T cells 3, protein expression of transforming growth factor-β1, and incorporation of [3H]leucine in cardiomyocytes. Taken together, these findings suggest that activation of ADPR-cyclase by ANG II entails a novel signaling pathway involving sequential activation of Src, PI 3-kinase/Akt, and PLC-γ1/IP3and that the activation of ADPR-cyclase can lead to cardiac hypertrophy.
Upper airway pressure-flow relationships and pharyngeal constrictor EMG activity during prolonged expiration in awake goats
Authors: O'Halloran K. D. , Bisgard G. E.
Published: May 2008

We undertook the present investigation to establish whether narrowing/closure of the upper airway occurs during spontaneous and provoked respiratory rhythm disturbances and whether pharyngeal constrictor muscle recruitment occurs coincident with upper airway occlusion during prolonged expiratory periods. Upper airway pressure-flow relationships and middle pharyngeal constrictor (mPC) EMG activities were recorded in 11 adult female goats during spontaneous and provoked prolongations in expiratory time (Te). A total of 213 spontaneous prolongations of expiration were recorded. Additionally, 169 prolonged expiratory events preceded by an augmented breath were included in the analyses. In separate trials on different days, Te was prolonged by systemic administration of dopamine, by raising the inspired fraction of O2 from 0.10 to 1.00 during poikilocapnic conditions or by systemic administration of clonidine. Continuous tonic activation of the mPC EMG was observed during each prolonged Te period regardless of the duration or initiating cause. However, significant increases in subglottic tracheal pressure, with expiratory airflow braking indicative of upper airway narrowing or closure, was only observed during spontaneous events without a preceding augmented breath and during clonidine-induced events. Tonic mPC activation proved an unreliable indicator of airway occlusion. Furthermore, mPC muscle activation alone is not sufficient to induce pharyngeal occlusion during prolonged expiration. Our data suggest that airway closure is not a common occurrence during provoked respiratory disturbances in awake goats. We propose that airway closure, when present during prolonged Te, is more likely dependent on activation of laryngeal adductor muscles with glottic braking independent of pharyngeal narrowing.
Polymorphisms of the IL1-Receptor Antagonist Gene (
IL1RN
) Are Associated With Multiple Markers of Systemic Inflammation
Authors: Reiner Alexander P. , Wurfel Mark M. , Lange Leslie A. , Carlson Christopher S. , Nord Alex S. , Carty Cara L. , Rieder Mark J. , Desmarais Cindy , Jenny Nancy S. , Iribarren Carlos , Walston Jeremy D. , Williams O. Dale , Nickerson Deborah A. , Jarvik Gail P.
Published: May 2008

Background—

Circulating levels of acute phase reactant proteins such as plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) are likely influenced by multiple genes regulating the innate immune response.

Methods and Results—

We screened a set of 16 inflammation-related genes for association with CRP in a large population-based study of healthy young adults (n=1627). Results were validated in 2 independent studies (n=1208 and n=4310), including a pooled analysis of all 3 studies. In the pooled analysis, the minor allele of
IL1RN
1018 (rs4251961) within the gene encoding interleukin (IL)-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) was significantly associated with higher mean plasma log(CRP) level (
P
<1×10
−4
). The same
IL1RN
1018 allele was associated with higher mean plasma log(IL-6) levels (
P
=0.004). In the pooled analysis, the minor allele of
IL1RN
13888 (rs2232354) was associated with higher fibrinogen, (
P
=0.001). The
IL1RN
1018 and 13888 variant alleles tag a clade of
IL1RN
haplotypes linked to allele 1 of an 86-bp VNTR polymorphism. We confirmed that the
IL1RN
1018 variant (rs4251961) was associated with decreased cellular IL-1RA production ex vivo.

Conclusions—

Common functional polymorphisms of the
IL1RN
gene are associated with several markers of systemic inflammation.
Hyperthermia with Magnetic Nanowires for Inactivating Living Cells
Authors: Choi D. S. , Park J. , Kim S. , Gracias D. H. , Cho M. K. , Kim Y. K. , Fung A. , Lee S. E. , Chen Y. , Khanal S. , Baral S. , Kim J.-H.
Published: May 2008

We describe a method to induce hyperthermia in cells, in-vitro, by remotely heating Ni nanowires (NWs) with radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields. Ni NWs were internalized by human embryonic kidney cells (HEK-293). Only cells proximal to NWs or with internalized NWs changed
shape on exposure to RF fields indicative of cell death. The cell death occurs as a result of hyperthermia, since the RF field remotely heats the NWs as a result of magnetic hysteresis. This is the first demonstration of hyperthermia induced by NWs; since the NWs have anisotropic and strong
magnetic moments, our experiments suggest the possibility of performing hyperthermia at lower field strengths in order to minimize damage to untargeted cells in applications such as the treatment of cancer.
Protein Arrays Based on Biotin-Streptavidin System for the Simultaneous Detection of TORCH Infections
Authors: Jiang Li , Yu Zhangbin , Tang Zuming , Jiang Tao , Zhang Chunxiu , Lu Zuhong
Published: May 2008

In this paper, we developed a protein array based on biotin-streptavidin system (PABS) used in the identification of IgM antibodies against TORCH antigens, including toxoplasma gondii (TOX), rubella virus (RuV), cytomegalovirus (CMV) and herpes simplex virus types II (HSV-2) antigens.
The detection signal intensities and sensitivities between the PABS and the direct labeling array system (DLAS) were compared. The linear ranges of detectable IgM antibodies in PABS were 0.485–1000 μg/mL, which was more sensitive than DLAS. Quantitatively, the lowest detectable
amount for IgM antibodies on each spot of the PABS was 0.25 pg. Furthermore, sixty serum samples from patients were tested with the PABS in TORCH detection. All the results were correspondingly confirmed with ELISA assay. No significant differences in identifying TORCH specific IgM antibodies
were found between the PABS and ELISA assay. There was a good concordance between PABS and ELISA in the classification of sera. The results suggested that the PABS was more sensitive, sample-saving and suitable for multi-pathogens parallel clinical detection.
Effect of Surface Roughness on the Subsequent Growth of MgO Nanowires
Authors: Kim Hyoun Woo , Shim Seung Hyun , Lee Jong Woo
Published: May 2008

We demonstrated the variation of product morphology by varying the underlying surface characteristics, which were controlled by predeposition annealing. The surface roughness of the underlying In2O3 layer affected the resultant product morphology, indicating that
rougher substrate favored the formation of one-dimensional (1D) structures. The obtained MgO nanowires were a single-crystal cubic structure. The PL measurement with a Gaussian fitting exhibited visible light emission bands centered at 2.26 eV and 2.86 eV.
Effect of Interfacial Condition on Electromigration for Narrow and Wide Copper Interconnects
Authors: Cheng Yi-Lung , Wang Ying-Lang
Published: May 2008

The sub-micron damascene interconnects, electromigration is mainly due to the diffusion at the interfaces of Cu with liner or dielectric capping layer. Many reports have shown that Cu/capping dielectric is the dominant interface. Experiments were performed to study the effect of the
interfacial conditions of Cu/capping dielectric material on electromigration for narrow and wide Cu lines. The results revealed significant differences in electromigration behavior of via-fed upper and lower layer damascene test structures. For upper layer test structure, the capping layer
and plasma surface treatment significantly dominated EM performance for different line width structures. In the case of lower layer test structure, the electromigration time to failure was found to be influenced by the capping layer and via process, and it remained unaffected by the plasma
surface treatment for the narrow Cu line. For the wide line width (3X), electromigration performance was influenced by the current crowding on via-bottom.
Training Wheels for Cultural Learning
Authors: Molinsky Andrew , Wei Qi Elaine Perunovic
Published: May 2008

This research examined the effect of language fluency on the evaluation of culturally inappropriate behavior. A series of video vignettes were created in which a nonnative speaker either followed or broke social rules while displaying varying degrees of fluency in English. Results demonstrated a shielding effect of poor language fluency, such that when the nonnative individual acted in a culturally inappropriate manner, poor fluency in English shielded the individual from negative evaluation.
The complete plastid genome sequence of Welwitschia mirabilis: an unusually compact plastome with accelerated divergence rates
Authors: McCoy Skip R , Kuehl Jennifer V , Boore Jeffrey L , Raubeson Linda A
Published: May 2008

Background

Welwitschia mirabilis is the only extant member of the family Welwitschiaceae, one of three lineages of gnetophytes, an enigmatic group of gymnosperms variously allied with flowering plants or conifers. Limited sequence data and rapid divergence rates have precluded consensus on the evolutionary placement of gnetophytes based on molecular characters. Here we report on the first complete gnetophyte chloroplast genome sequence, from Welwitschia mirabilis, as well as analyses on divergence rates of protein-coding genes, comparisons of gene content and order, and phylogenetic implications.

Results

The chloroplast genome of Welwitschia mirabilis [GenBank: EU342371] is comprised of 119,726 base pairs and exhibits large and small single copy regions and two copies of the large inverted repeat (IR). Only 101 unique gene species are encoded. The Welwitschia plastome is the most compact photosynthetic land plant plastome sequenced to date; 66% of the sequence codes for product. The genome also exhibits a slightly expanded IR, a minimum of 9 inversions that modify gene order, and 19 genes that are lost or present as pseudogenes. Phylogenetic analyses, including one representative of each extant seed plant lineage and based on 57 concatenated protein-coding sequences, place Welwitschia at the base of all seed plants (distance, maximum parsimony) or as the sister to Pinus (the only conifer representative) in a monophyletic gymnosperm clade (maximum likelihood, bayesian). Relative rate tests on these gene sequences show the Welwitschia sequences to be evolving at faster rates than other seed plants. For these genes individually, a comparison of average pairwise distances indicates that relative divergence in Welwitschia ranges from amounts about equal to other seed plants to amounts almost three times greater than the average for non-gnetophyte seed plants.

Conclusion

Although the basic organization of the Welwitschia plastome is typical, its compactness, gene content and high nucleotide divergence rates are atypical. The current lack of additional conifer plastome sequences precludes any discrimination between the gnetifer and gnepine hypotheses of seed plant relationships. However, both phylogenetic analyses and shared genome features identified here are consistent with either of the hypotheses that link gnetophytes with conifers, but are inconsistent with the anthophyte hypothesis.
The effect of walnut intake on factors related to prostate and vascular health in older men
Authors: Spaccarotella Kim J , Kris-Etherton Penny M , Stone William L , Bagshaw Deborah M , Fishell Valerie K , West Sheila G , Lawrence Frank R , Hartman Terryl J
Published: May 2008

Background

Tocopherols may protect against prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

We assessed the effect of walnuts, which are rich in tocopherols, on markers of prostate and vascular health in men at risk for prostate cancer. We conducted an 8-week walnut supplement study to examine effects of walnuts on serum tocopherols and prostate specific antigen (PSA). Subjects (n = 21) consumed (in random order) their usual diet +/- a walnut supplement (75 g/d) that was isocalorically incorporated in their habitual diets. Prior to the supplement study, 5 fasted subjects participated in an acute timecourse experiment and had blood taken at baseline and 1, 2, 4, and 8 h after consuming walnuts (75 g).

Results

During the timecourse experiment, triglycerides peaked at 4 h, and gamma-tocopherol (γ-T) increased from 4 to 8 h. Triglyceride – normalized γ-T was two-fold higher (P = 0.01) after 8 versus 4 h. In the supplement study, change from baseline was +0.83 ± 0.52 μmol/L for γ-T, -2.65 ± 1.30 μmol/L for alpha-tocopherol (α-T) and -3.49 ± 1.99 for the tocopherol ratio (α-T: γ-T). A linear mixed model showed that, although PSA did not change, the ratio of free PSA:total PSA increased and approached significance (P = 0.07). The α-T: γ-T ratio decreased significantly (P = 0.01), partly reflecting an increase in serum γ-T, which approached significance (P = 0.08).

Conclusion

The significant decrease in the α-T: γ-T ratio with an increase in serum γ-T and a trend towards an increase in the ratio of free PSA:total PSA following the 8-week supplement study suggest that walnuts may improve biomarkers of prostate and vascular status.
The Way Ahead in Mental Handicap
Authors: Simon G. B.
Published: May 2008

The views I express in this paper are my personal views and not those of either the Department of Health and Social Security or the National Development Group, but they are, nevertheless, based on established services and views expressed to me by colleagues in various parts of the country.
A Clinical Study of Puerperal Psychosis
Authors: Brockington Ian F.
Published: May 2008

The case notes of 85 patients admitted to the Mother and Baby Unit and 50 non-puerperal women of the same age group, admitted to Withington Hospital, Manchester, were studied. All case notes were abstracted and all information about their mental state, stripped of contextual clues, was noted. The abstracts were reviewed by two social workers and two psychiatrists, all of whom were ignorant as to the number of patients with puerperal psychosis.
Hospital Admissions
Authors: Szmukler G.
Published: May 2008

This paper examined some social and clinical characteristics of a group of formally admitted patients. Factors of a more long-standing nature preceding the admission were particularly emphasized. The study describes a group of 80 consecutive formal admissions from a London borough and compares them with a random sample of 80 informal admissions. The borough has many characteristics associated with an inner city area, e.g. a high incidence of people living alone, foreign born, single and the elderly.
Psychiatry and Surrealism
Authors: Bracken Patrick
Published: May 2008

A recent edition of the Bulletin contained a letter which was originally published in La Révolution Surréaliste 60 years ago. The letter was probably written by André Breton and was basically an attack on psychiatry as then practised in France and in particular on the process of involuntary admission. The letter appeared in the Bulletin under the title ‘An Historical Vignette: Surrealism and Anti-Psychiatry’. While there can be little doubt that the surrealists were antagonistic to psychiatry I would like to argue that a great deal of their work is of potential interest to psychiatrists. The surrealist movement was opposed to any form of rationalism. It was opposed to anything which could possibly limit the imagination and this was the source of its conflict with psychiatry. But surrealist art and literature was essentially an exploration of the bizarre, the irrational and the unconscious and these are subjects which are, of necessity, of importance to the psychiatrist and the psychotherapist.