bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypersensitivity Reactions Associated with Platinum Antineoplastic Agents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Makrilia Nektaria , Syrigou Ekaterini , Kaklamanos Ioannis , Manolopoulos Leonidas , Saif Muhammad Wasif
Published: September 2010

Platinum-containing chemotherapy agents (cisplatin, carboplatin, oxaliplatin) have been approved in the first-line setting of numerous malignancies, such as ovarian, bladder, head and neck, colorectal, and lung cancer. Their extensive use over the last decade has led to a significant increase in the incidence of hypersensitivity reactions, which are defined as unforeseen reactions whose signs and symptoms cannot be explained by the known toxicity of these drugs. Skin rash, flushing, abdominal cramping, itchy palms, and back pain are common symptoms. Cardiovascular and respiratory complications can prove fatal. Multiple pathogenetic mechanisms have been suggested. Hypersensitivity usually appears after multiple infusions, suggesting type I allergic reactions; however, other types of hypersensitivity also seem to be implicated. Several management options are available to treating physicians: discontinuation of chemotherapy, premedication, prolonging of infusion duration, desensitization protocols, and replacement with a different platinum compound after performing skin tests that rule out cross-reactions among platinum agents.
Hierarchical Modulation with Vector Rotation for E‐MBMS Transmission in LTE Systems
Authors: Zhao Hui , Zhou Xiaoping , Yang Yunchuan , Wang Wenbo
Published: September 2010

Enhanced Multimedia Broadcast and Multicast Service (E‐MBMS) is considered of key importance for the proliferation of Long‐Term Evolution (LTE) network in mobile market. Hierarchical modulation (HM), which involves a “base‐layer” (BL) and an “enhancement‐layer” (EL) bit streams, is a simple technique for achieving tradeoff between service quality and radio coverage. Therefore, it is appealing for MBMS. Generally, HM suffers from the severe performance degradation of the less protected EL stream. In this paper, HM with vector rotation operation introduced to EL stream is proposed, in order to improve EL′s performance. With the proper interleaving in frequency domain, this operation can exploit the inherent diversity gain from the multipath channel. In this way, HM with vector rotation can effectively enhance multimedia broadcasting on quality video and coverage. The simulation results with scalable video coding (SVC) as source show the significant benefits in comparison with the conventional HM and alternative schemes.
Post-Genomics and Skin Inflammation
Authors: Braconi Daniela , Bernardini Giulia , Santucci Annalisa
Published: September 2010

Atopic dermatitis and psoriasis are two chronic skin inflammatory diseases that have so far received a greater attention within the scientific community through different post-genomic approaches; on the contrary, acne, which is undoubtedly one of the most common skin disorders involving inflammatory processes, seems to be still quite neglected under the post-genomic point of view. In this paper, we will review how post-genomic technologies have provided new fundamental tools for the analysis of these three conditions and we will cast light on their potential in addressing future research challenges.
Goodpasture's Syndrome and Silica: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Dahlgren James , Wardenburg Marla , Peckham Trevor
Published: September 2010

We report a case of Goodpasture's syndrome following chronic low level and an acute, high level of exposure to crystalline silica. A 38-year-old male tilesetter was admitted to the emergency room with dyspnea and respiratory failure. He reported that his symptoms had developed over the previous week after inhaling a large amount of dust while dry-sanding and sweeping a silica-based product used to fill cracks in a cement floor. Over the following days, his pulmonary function declined and he developed acute renal failure. Tests of antiglomerular basement membrane antibody were positive and renal biopsy revealed global glomerulonephritis. He was diagnosed with Goodpasture's syndrome and treated with steroids, plasmapheresis, and hemodialysis. This man had a history of childhood asthma and a remote, one pack-year history of cigarette use. He used the flooring product for seven years prior to the inciting event, however, previous jobs had utilized significantly smaller amounts. Goodpasture's syndrome and other autoimmune diseases have been reported in association with silica exposure. The acute onset following high level silica exposure in this previously healthy man, suggest that clinicians should investigate silica exposure as a causal factor in cases of Goodpasture's syndrome.
Targeting Toll-Like Receptors for Treatment of SLE
Authors: Horton Christopher G. , Pan Zi-jian , Farris A. Darise
Published: September 2010

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are important innate immune receptors for the identification and clearance of invading pathogens. Twelve TLRs that recognize various conserved components of microorganisms are currently known. Among these, the endosomal TLRs 3, 7/8, and 9 recognize dsRNA, ssRNA, and CpG DNA, respectively. Nucleic acid-sensing TLRs, TLR 7 in particular, have been implicated in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and are thought to exacerbate disease pathology. Activation of these TLRs results in the production of inflammatory cytokines and type I interferon. Genome-wide association studies, single nucleotide polymorphism analyses as well as experimental mouse models have provided evidence of TLR signaling involvement in SLE and other autoimmune diseases. Since activation of these receptor pathways promotes autoimmune phenotypes, inhibitory drugs that target these pathways constitute important new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of systemic autoimmunity.
Antioxidant Capacities of Peel, Pulp, and Seed Fractions ofCanarium odontophyllumMiq. Fruit
Authors: Prasad K. Nagendra , Chew Lye Yee , Khoo Hock Eng , Kong Kin Weng , Azlan Azrina , Ismail Amin
Published: September 2010

Antioxidant capacities of ethylacetate, butanol, and water fractions of peel, pulp, and seeds ofCanarium odontophyllumMiq. (CO) were determined using variousin vitroantioxidant models. Ethylacetate fraction of peel (EAFPE) exhibited the highest total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activities compared to pulp, seeds, and other solvent fractions. Antioxidant capacities were assayed by total antioxidant capability, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radical activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and hemoglobin oxidation assay. Total phenolic content of ethylacetate fractions was positively correlated with the antioxidant activity. This is the first report on the antioxidant activities from CO fruit fractions. Thus, EAFPE can be used potentially as a readily accessible source of natural antioxidants and as a possible pharmaceutical supplement.
Efficient Transduction of Feline Neural Progenitor Cells for Delivery of Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Using a Feline Immunodeficiency Virus-Based Lentiviral Construct
Authors: You X. Joann , Gu Ping , Wang Jinmei , Song Tianran , Yang Jing , Liew Chee Gee , Klassen Henry
Published: September 2010

Work has shown that stem cell transplantation can rescue or replace neurons in models of retinal degenerative disease. Neural progenitor cells (NPCs) modified to overexpress neurotrophic factors are one means of providing sustained delivery of therapeutic gene products in vivo. To develop a nonrodent animal model of this therapeutic strategy, we previously derived NPCs from the fetal cat brain (cNPCs). Here we use bicistronic feline lentiviral vectors to transduce cNPCs with glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) together with a GFP reporter gene. Transduction efficacy is assessed, together with transgene expression level and stability during induction of cellular differentiation, together with the influence of GDNF transduction on growth and gene expression profile. We show that GDNF overexpressing cNPCs expand in vitro, coexpress GFP, and secrete high levels of GDNF protein—before and after differentiation—all qualities advantageous for use as a cell-based approach in feline models of neural degenerative disease.
Emerging Technologies of Polymeric Nanoparticles in Cancer Drug Delivery
Authors: Brewer Erik , Coleman Jason , Lowman Anthony
Published: September 2010

Polymeric nanomaterials have the potential to improve upon present chemotherapy delivery methods. They successfully reduce side effects while increasing dosage, increase residence time in the body, offer a sustained and tunable release, and have the ability to deliver multiple drugs in one carrier. However, traditional nanomaterial formulations have not produced highly therapeutic formulations to date due to their passive delivery methods and lack of rapid drug release at their intended site. In this paper, we have focused on a few “smart” technologies that further enhance the benefits of typical nanomaterials. Temperature and pH-responsive drug delivery devices were reviewed as methods for triggering release of encapsulating drugs, while aptamer and ligand conjugation were discussed as methods for targeted and intracellular delivery, with emphases onin vitroandin vivoworks for each method.
Preparation of Nanoporous TiO2Electrodes for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Hsiue-Hsyan , Su Chaochin , Chen Huei-Siou , Liu Yi-Cheng , Hsu Yi-Wen , Hsu Nai-Mu , Li Wen-Ren
Published: September 2010

Nano-porousTiO2thin films have been widely used as the working electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). In this work, the phase-pure anataseTiO2(a-TiO2) and rutileTiO2(r-TiO2) have been prepared using hydrothermal processes. The investigation of photo-to-electron conversion efficiency of DSSCs fabricated from mixed-TiO2with a-TiO2and r-TiO2ratio of 80 : 20 (A8R2) was performed and compared to that from commercialTiO2(DP-25). The results showed higher efficiency of DSSC for A8R2 cells with same dependence of cell efficiency on the film thickness for both A8R2 and DP-25 cells. The best efficiency obtained in this work is 5.2% from A8R2 cell withTiO2film thickness of 12.0 μm. The correlation between theTiO2films thickness and photoelectron chemical properties of DSSCs fabricated from A8R2 and DP-25 was compared and discussed.
Humidity Sensor Based on Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Thin Films
Authors: Cao C. L. , Hu C. G. , Fang L. , Wang S. X. , Tian Y. S. , Pan C. Y.
Published: September 2010

The properties of the humidity sensors made of chemically treated and untreated multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) thin films are investigated systematically. It shows that both the chemically treated and untreated MWCNT thin films demonstrate humidity sensitive properties, but the former have stronger sensitivity than the latter. In the range of 11%–98% relative humidity (RH), the resistances of the chemically treated and untreated MWCNT humidity sensors increase 120% and 28%, respectively. Moreover, the treated humidity sensors showed higher sensitivity and better stability. In addition, the response and recover properties, and stabilization of the humidity sensors are measured, and the humidity sensitive mechanisms of the sensors are analyzed. The humidity sensitivity of carbon nanotube thin films indicates it promise as a kind of humidity sensitive material.
Left Atrial Enlargement Induced by Pure Mitral Regurgitation: Time Frame in a New Swine Model
Authors: Chang J.-P. , Tsai T.-H. , Chen Y.-L. , Wang Y.-H. , Ho W.-C. , Yu G.-H. , Chen M.-C.
Published: September 2010

Background: Atrial enlargement occurs in patients with significant mitral regurgitation. However, the time frame of the development of atrial enlargement induced by mitral regurgitation remains unknown. Methods: Fourteen Lanyu miniature pigs (age = 6.6 ± 0.9 months) were studied. Mitral regurgitation was created by placing a predefined hole on the middle scallop of the posterior mitral leaflet under cardiopulmonary bypass. The parasternal long-axis atrial dimension was measured by transthoracic echocardiographic examinations. Results: All animals exhibited grade 3 mitral regurgitation immediately after surgery. Seven pigs expired within 2 weeks after the operation [technical complications (n = 1), acute cardiac tamponade (n = 1), and acute and subacute heart failure (n = 5)]. Seven pigs remained alive at a mean follow-up of 7.7 ± 2.1 months. The left atrial diameter indices of the 7 pigs increased significantly at 1 month (33.1 ± 8.6 mm, p = 0.018) and 3 months (41.3 ± 12.6 mm, p = 0.018) after surgery compared with baseline values (22.8 ± 5.2 mm), and the left atrial diameter index increased significantly at 3 months compared to 1 month (p = 0.018). Conclusions: Left atrial enlargement develops rapidly and progresses after the creation of significant pure mitral regurgitation.
Ethical Mindsets, Spirituality and Aesthetics in an Australian Business Context
Authors: Issa Theodora , Pick David
Published: September 2010

The aim of this article is to investigate the relatively neglected and under-theorized area of ethical mindsets in the Australian services sector. Employing a mixed-methods approach, quantitative data was collected through online survey of 66 items and qualitative data was collected by focus group interviews with 20 participants. An analysis of the survey data (N = 223) suggests that ethical mindsets exist, and the qualitative analysis allowed the identified components to be refined. This research potentially adds to developing business ethics literature about ethical mindsets and contributes to the methodological debate about the efficacy of online surveys and the mixed-methods approach.
PEG-mediated Facile Protocol for N-Boc Protection of Amines
Authors: Siddaiah V , Basha G M , Rao G Padma , Prasad U Viplava , Rao R Suryachendra
Published: September 2010

We have reported an efficient and eco-friendly protocol for the protection of various structurally and electronically divergent aryl and aliphatic amines using (Boc)2O in the presence of PEG-400 at room temperature. The reaction gave excellent yields with low as well as high molecular weight PEGs.
Fixation Time Does Not Affect Expression of HER2/neu
Authors: Ibarra Julio A. , Rogers Lowell W.
Published: September 2010

It is said that HER2/neu expression by immunohistochemical analysis varies with the time of fixation. The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the impact of the length of fixation in 10% buffered formalin on the expression of HER2/neu by immunohistochemical analysis.

We studied tissue samples from 10 invasive breast cancer cases after fixation for 3, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours. The tissue was processed immediately after fixation, resembling routine practice. The 50 resulting blocks were then batch stained with PATHWAY HER2/neu clone 4B5 rabbit monoclonal antibody using the Ventana Ultraview DAB detection kit in a Ventana BenchMark XT processor (Ventana, Tucson, AZ). The stained slides were reviewed and scored.

We found no significant difference in the intensity of the stain or the percentage of cells stained regardless of the time in fixation. Fixation times between 3 and 120 hours in 10% buffered formalin do not appear to have an impact on the expression of HER2/neu by immunohistochemical analysis.
Expression of UTF1 in Primary and Metastatic Testicular Germ Cell Tumors
Authors: Wang Peng , Li Jianping , Allan Robert W. , Guo Charles C. , Peng Yan , Cao Dengfeng
Published: September 2010

We immunohistochemically evaluated UTF1 in 104 primary and 68 metastatic testicular germ cell tumors and 339 non–germ cell tumors. The percentage of tumor cells stained was semiquantitatively scored (0, no tumor cell staining; 1+, ≤30% of cells; 2+, 31%–60% of cells; 3+, 61%–90% of cells; 4+, >90% of cells). Staining intensity (nuclear) was scored as weak, moderate, or strong. UTF1 staining was seen in all 56 intratubular germ cell neoplasias, unclassified type (2+, 1; 3+, 2; 4+, 53; weak, 4; moderate, 49; strong, 3), all 72 seminomas (1+, 2; 2+, 4; 3+, 8; 4+, 58; weak, 10; moderate, 33; strong, 29), and 59 embryonal carcinomas (3+, 2; 4+, 57; moderate, 1; strong, 58). Weak UTF1 staining was seen in 15 of 37 yolk sac tumors (1+, 10; 2+, 2; 3+, 2; 4+, 1). All 34 teratomas, 9 choriocarcinomas, and 6 spermatocytic seminomas were negative for UTF1 staining. Among the 339 non–germ cell tumors, only 18 showed weak UTF1 staining (1+ to 4+). Normal prepubertal and postpubertal spermatogonia showed weak to strong UTF1 staining. UTF1 was differentially expressed in testicular germ cell tumors. Strong UTF1 staining can be used for diagnosing embryonal carcinoma and seminoma. UTF1 expression in spermatogonia suggests its possible role in spermatogenesis and renewal of spermatogonia.
Laboratory Accreditation in Thailand
Authors: Wattanasri Naiyana , Manoroma Wannika , Viriyayudhagorn Somchai
Published: September 2010

Improvement of quality standards for health care service delivery has been a commitment of the Ministry of Public Health in Thailand for more than 2 decades; however, laboratory quality systems in Thailand did not become a focus until 10 years ago. International accreditation can increase recognition of laboratory quality, but it is difficult to reach for many laboratories, especially those in remote areas. This article describes Thailand’s experience in developing a national laboratory standard and establishing a national laboratory accreditation program to guarantee the quality of laboratory services. The Thai laboratory standard derived from multiple international standards, retaining the most important elements yet making the standard applicable to Thailand. The national accreditation program was established as a local alternative for improvement of laboratory quality. The program is affordable, feasible, scalable, sustainable, and effective.
Is the world a just place? Countering the negative consequences of pervasive discrimination by affirming the world as just
Authors: Stroebe Katherine , Dovidio John F. , Barreto Manuela , Ellemers Naomi , John Melissa‐Sue
Published: September 2010

Two studies (a) explored the role of pervasiveness of discrimination (pervasive vs. rare) in determining targets' responses to discrimination, and (b) examined the extent to which threats to participants' worldview can account, in part, for detrimental effects of pervasive discrimination. As predicted, across both studies, pervasiveness of discrimination moderated the relationship between attributions to prejudice for failure to obtain a job and psychological well‐being (depressed affect and state self‐esteem). When discrimination was presented as pervasive, attributions to prejudice related to lower state self‐esteem and greater depressed affect. When discrimination was portrayed as rare, attributions to prejudice were related to higher state self‐esteem and unrelated to depressed affect. Study 2 further showed that being able to affirm the world as just countered the negative consequences of pervasive discrimination, whereas it did not influence responses to discrimination that was perceived as rare.
Risk of breast cancer during hormone replacement therapy: mechanisms
Authors: Mueck Alfred O. , Seeger Harald , Shapiro Samuel
Published: September 2010

Regarding estrogen replacement therapy, two main mechanisms have to be considered for it to be discussed as a potential carcinogen in the breast, and also considering the World Health Organization definition of estrogens and estrogen/progestogen combinations as “carcinogenic”: (i) the proliferative/apoptotic effects on already pre-existing estrogen-sensitive cancer cells and (ii) the production of possible genotoxic estrogen metabolites. By addition of the progestogen component, as is usual in non-hysterectomized women, both mechanisms can lead to an increased risk compared to estrogenonly therapy. The detailed mechanisms underlying the development of the benign breast epithelial cell into clinically relevant breast cancer cells are very complicated. Based on these mechanisms, the following simplified summary of the main steps explains that: (i) an increased risk cannot be excluded, (ii) especially when estrogens are combined with progestogens, but (iii) there are differences between the preparations used in therapy; (iv) the risk seems to be very rare, needing very special cellular and extracellular conditions, (v) and could even be decreased in special situations of estrogen therapy. It is concluded that when critically reviewed, an increased risk of breast cancer during hormone replacement therapy cannot be excluded in very rare cases. Definitive mechanistic evidence for a possible causal relationship with carcinogenesis still remains open.
Generating diversity in glucocorticoid receptor signaling: mechanisms, receptor isoforms, and post-translational modifications
Authors: Duma Danielle , Cidlowski John A.
Published: September 2010

Glucocorticoids are necessary for life after birth and regulate numerous homeostatic functions in man, including glucose homeostasis, protein catabolism, skeletal growth, respiratory function, inflammation, development, behavior, and apoptosis. In a clinical setting, they are widely used as anti-inflammatory agents to control both acute and chronic inflammation. Unfortunately, owing to their broad range of physiological actions, patients treated with glucocorticoids for long periods of time experience a variety of serious side effects, including metabolic syndrome, bone loss, and psychiatric disorders including depression, mania, and psychosis. Our understanding of how one hormone or drug regulates all of these diverse processes is limited. Recent studies have shown that multiple glucocorticoid receptor isoforms are produced from one gene via combinations of alternative mRNA splicing and alternative translation initiation. These isoforms possess unique tissue distribution patterns and transcriptional regulatory profiles. Owing to variation in the N-terminal and C-terminal length of glucocorticoid receptor isoforms, different post-translational modifications including ubiquitination, phosphorylation, and sumoylation are predicted, contributing to the complexity of glucocorticoid signaling. Furthermore, increasing evidence suggests that unique glucocorticoid receptor isoform compositions within cells could determine the cell-specific response to glucocorticoids. In this review, we will outline the recent advances made in the characterization of the transcriptional activity and the selective regulation of apoptosis by the various glucocorticoid receptor isoforms.
Circulating steroid hormones in prostate carcinogenesis. Part 1 – Androgens
Authors: Fiet Jean , Giton Frank
Published: September 2010

The aim of this review is to identify circulating steroids associated with prostate cancer (PCa) in bibliographic reports. First, we summarize chronological reports comparing circulating steroid levels in men with a high risk of PCa, such as African-Americans (AAs), with men having a lower risk. Higher testosterone plasma levels in young AA men have been reported. However, the difference between AAs and Caucasians decreases with age. When measured, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) was found to be higher in AAs; however, these results must be taken with caution, as immunological assay of this steroid is difficult. Second, we summarize chronological reports concerning circulating steroids assayed in blood samples drawn several years before a diagnosis of PCa was made, compared to controls. These nested case-control studies did not lead to straightforward conclusions regarding an increase in circulating testosterone. However, large collaborative studies showed a trend of a decrease in plasma sex hormone binding globulin, consequently an increase in bioavailable plasma testosterone in PCa. These nested case-control studies failed to associate plasma DHT levels with PCa risk. Third, we summarize numerous chronological publications relating plasma concentrations, measured at the time of PCa diagnosis. Numerous results showed a decrease in plasma testosterone levels in aggressive PCa (high Gleason score, advanced stage with positive surgical margins). Testosterone levels returned to normal several months after prostatectomy. All plasma hormone assay levels were always carried out using immunological methods. We recommend replacing this methodology by mass spectrometry coupled with gas chromatography or liquid chromatography in these epidemiologic studies.
Upregulation of AIB1, aromatase and ERα provides long-term estrogen-deprived human breast cancer cells with a mechanistic growth advantage for survival
Authors: Tilghman Syreeta L. , Sabnis Gauri , Brodie Angela M.H.
Published: September 2010

To investigate the mechanisms by which breast cancer cells adapt and are able to grow during estrogen deprivation, human estrogen receptor-α (ERα)-positive breast cancer cells stably transfected with the aromatase gene (MCF-7Ca) were cultured in steroid-depleted medium for 6–8 months until they started proliferating. Compared with the parental MCF-7Ca cells, long-term estrogen-deprived UMB-1Ca cells exhibited increased aromatase activity (2000%), AIB1 expression (3500%) and ERα expression (100%). When MCF-7Ca cells were isolated from tumors of mice treated for 12 months with an aromatase inhibitor, letrozole, ERα was reduced (50%) whereas AIB1 levels were increased (>1000%), suggesting that the mechanism of estrogen deprivation might predetermine the signaling pathway utilized. To a lesser extent long-term estrogen-deprived MCF-7 cells (LTED) displayed an increase in AIB1, ERα and aromatase activity. Consistent with other findings, the growth of the LTED cells was inhibited by estradiol and antiestrogens, whereas the UMB-1Ca cells were slightly stimulated by estradiol and inhibited by antiestrogens and letrozole. In LTED cells treated with estradiol, levels of AIB1 and ERα (95%) were reduced. Interestingly, estradiol treatment caused no change in AIB1 and ERα expression in the UMB-1Ca cells which might explain the differential growth effect of the cells to estradiol. Together, these results demonstrate that estrogen deprivation results in the upregulation of the estrogen signaling pathway at the level of AIB1, ERα and aromatase, which might attenuate ER-mediated transcription representing one mechanism by which tumors adapt to proliferation in a low estrogenic environment.
CdTe Solar Cells at CEA / LETI
Authors: Bernardi Sergio , Renet Sébastien , Million Alain
Published: September 2010

The present communication will present the results obtained at CEA/LETI in Grenoble, France, in the frame of an experimental work finalized to directly test the criticalities and chances of this technology row. By means of Closed Space Sublimation (CSS) and Chemical Bath Deposition (CBD) processes, appropriate annealing treatments and specific CdTe-contacting procedures, we reached the state-of-art of this technology with about 15% conversion efficiency under standard illumination conditions in “superstrate” cells configuration both for structures deposited on 3 mm thick low-iron containing sodalime glass (SLG) and Borosilicate glass (BSG).
Tunneling MOSFETs Based on III-V Staggered Heterojunctions
Authors: Asbeck Peter , Wang Lingquan , Gu Siyuan , Taur Yuan , Yu Edward
Published: September 2010

A critical problem for the progression of CMOS electronics to the nanoscale is the reduction of power density, while at the same time preserving high speed performance. One of the most promising approaches is to aggressively reduce the power supply voltage by using a novel device, the tunneling MOSFET (TMOSFET), which is a MOSFET that operates by tunnel-injection of carriers from source to channel, rather than by conventional thermionic emission. TMOSFETs benefit from steep (sub-60mV/dec) gate turn-on characteristics. In this paper we show that TMOSFET designs based on staggered heterojunctions are particularly promising, since the choice of materials for the injector (source) and channel allows optimization of the tunneling probability at the heterojunction. Analysis and simulation of MOSFETs based on the GaAlSb / InGaAs material system are presented. The energy offset between the valence band of the injector and the conduction band of the channel at the heterojunction can be tailored over a wide range, from negative values (“offset” band lineup) to values in excess of 1eV. We find by simulation that for optimal values of effective heterojunction bandgap near 0.2eV, the resulting MOSFETs are capable of delivering >0.5mA/mm while maintaining on-off ratio greater than four orders of magnitude over voltage swing of 0.3V. We also discuss a variety of materials-related challenges that must be overcome to realize the predicted performance. Among these are the need to provide near ideal heterojunctions between the materials, employ high K dielectrics with very low interface state density, and achieve good alignment between the gate and the heterojunction. Different configurations for the tunneling MOSFETs are presented.
Profiling Different Kinds of Generated Defects at Elevated Temperature in Both SiO2 and High-k Dielectrics
Authors: Sahhaf Sahar , Degraeve Robin , Zahid Mohammed , Groeseneken Guido
Published: September 2010

In this work, the effect of elevated temperature on the generated defects with constant voltage stress (CVS) in SiO2 and SiO2/HfSiO stacks is investigated. Applying Trap Spectroscopy by Charge Injection and Sensing (TSCIS) to 6.5 nm SiO2 layers, different kinds of generated traps are profiled at low and high temperature. Also the Stress-Induced Leakage Current (SILC) spectrum of high-k dielectric stack is different at elevated temperature indicating that degradation and breakdown at high temperature is not equivalent to that at low temperature and therefore, extrapolation of data from high to low T or vice versa is challenging.
Interface Study of SiO2/ HfO2/SiO2 Stacks Used as InterPoly Dielectric for Future Generations of Embedded Flash Memories
Authors: Guiraud Alexandre , Breil Nicolas , Gros-Jean Mickaël , Deleruyelle Damien , Micolau Gilles , Muller Christophe , Cherault Nathalie , Morin Pierre
Published: September 2010

We have investigated the integration of Hf-based material as Inter Poly Dielectric in flash memories devices. Electrical measurements showed the good properties of SiO2/HfO2/SiO2 stacks. We then interested to the impact of the thermal budget on this specific stack which induces changes in the electrical properties. XPS measurements suggests those changes are due to the presence of an Hf-silicate layer at the SiO2/HfO2 interface.
Gas Transport and Response in Porous Silicon Sensors
Authors: Ozdemir Serdar , Gole James L
Published: September 2010

Nanopore covered microporous silicon conductometric gas sensors have been produced via electrochemical etching and standard microfabrication techniques. Reversible and sensitive gas sensors working at room temperature have been fabricated. Sensing of NH3, NOx and PH3 at or below the ppm level have been achieved. The porous silicon (PS) surface has been modified using selective coatings including electroless tin, gold, nickel and copper solutions to increase the response to NOx, NH3, and PH3 respectively. The diffusion of the analyte species has been investigated in the nanopore and micropore regimes by numerical analysis. Comparing the response time of the hybrid porous sensor surface with numerical diffusion calculations on the pores, it has been observed that Knudsen diffusion time scales dominate the sensor response. A transduction model is proposed based on nanopore limited gas diffusion and the experimental response and recovery data.
Multispectral Refractive Index Sensing Using Surface Plasmon Resonance on Gold Nanoslits
Authors: Chung Pei-Yu , Lee Kuang-Li , Schultz Gregory , Wei Pei-Kuen , Batich Christopher
Published: September 2010

Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensors are widely used in sensitive chemical, biological and environmental sensing. Recently, the studies of nano-plasmonics in metallic structures have shown that surface plasmons can also be excited by the metallic nanostructures films which can be used for high-throughput and chip-based SPR type sensing. We developed a class of plasmonic crystal-like structures consisting of a film with arrays of periodic nanoslit geometry. Because the engineered array ensures multiple resonance modes, we use the multispectral analysis to evaluate the refractive index sensing capability. Different from the common method monitoring a single peak shift, the multispectral analysis, observing all the peak shifts and intensity changes in the multiple plasmonic resonances in the spectra, can improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the system and enhance the sensing capabilities. In this investigation, we studied the best condition for the gold nanoslit arrays by testing their ability for refractive index sensing, and a high sensitivity of up to 28586 %T nm/RIU was obtained by multispectral analysis (RIU = refreactive index unit, and T= transmission).
Functional Hybrid Glass that Generates Huge Acoustic Wave; Novel Nanostructure Patterns
Authors: Choi Kyung
Published: September 2010

Alkylene-bridged hybrid glass doped with Cr/CrOx was developed by sol-gel polymerization. When laser beam goes through a solid media, density wave is linear since heat doesn't decay through the media effectively in solid media. Interestingly, we observed a strong ‘acoustic response' from alkylene-bridged hybrid glass doped with Cr/CrOx due to high grating effect, high photo acoustic diffraction efficiency. The acoustic response generated from the doped hybrid glass was as compressive as liquid thus the acoustic refractive intensity generated from the hybrid glass was as strong as liquid. In our laser experiment, the diffraction efficiency (45%) of the glass is higher than that of methanol (25%). The hybrid glass can be used to develop diffraction beam modulators.
Imaging and Characterization of Self-Assembled Soft Nanostructures
Authors: de Souza Elizabeth Fátima , Teschke Omar
Published: September 2010

Long-ranged double layer interactions and specific tip penetration through the scanned layers should be considered when atomic force microscopy (AFM) is used to probe soft samples such as surfactants or biological material within liquid media. Therefore, AFM imaging of soft nanostructures requires a careful adjust of the applied force and the scanning velocity. A paramount advantage of this technique is that cells immersed in liquids can be imaged under physiological conditions. On the other hand, confocal Raman microscopy (CRM) allows the real-time monitoring and chemical characterization of compounds also in a noncontact manner. The three-dimensional distribution of substances can be recorded by CRM with high spatial resolution by scanning a tightly focused laser beam over the sample. By combining of these two techniques (AFM and CRM), it is possible to obtain relevant information on formation processes, characteristics and behavior of soft self-assembled nanostructures and of cells on hydrophilic or hydrophobic surfaces under physiological conditions.
Surface Spin-glass Freezing and Blocking in NiFe2O4 Nanoparticles
Authors: Nadeem Kashif , Krenn Heinz
Published: September 2010

We prepared single-phase nickel ferrite nanoparticles separated by silicon dioxide using sol-gel method with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) as a precursor for SiO2. The magnetic properties are investigated by using SQUID-magnetometry over a broad temperature range (4.2 – 350 K), magnetic field (2–70,000 Oe) and frequency (0.1 – 1000 Hz) range. The particle size is in the range 8 – 12 nm. Exchange bias and spin disorder appear at the core-shell interface due to broken bonds on the surface. Disorder and core-shell interaction induces spin-glass freezing which is manifested by a low temperature peak in the AC susceptibility well separated from magnetic blocking peak. This low temperature peak is assigned to spin-glass freezing. The proof of spin-glass freezing is managed by zero field cooled/field cooled (ZFC/FC), frequency and DC field dependence of AC susceptibility, low temperature hysteresis loop and time dependent thermoremanent magnetization at different temperatures. All the measurements stated above signify blocking/unblocking at higher temperatures and surface spin-glass freezing at low temperatures. The aim of our work is to contribute to a better understanding of “spin-frozen” magnetic ferrite nanoparticles at diameters 8 – 12 nm which could be important in future for stabilizing the magnetic state of “core-shell”-structured nanomagnets.
Effect of Substrate Type on the Electrical and Optical Properties of Cold-sputtered Indium Tin Oxide Films as a function of Post-deposition Heat Treatment
Authors: Joshi Salil , Book Gregory W. , Gerhardt Rosario A.
Published: September 2010

Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) films were deposited by RF sputtering onto glass and quartz substrates with no external heating. An ITO target containing 10 wt% SnO2 was used for the deposition in a Kurt Lesker PVD75 system, in an atmosphere of 50% O2 + 50% Ar. Post-deposition heat treatments were done on these coatings at 150°C, 300°C and 450°C in an atmosphere of commercial air or argon. The effects of these heat treatments on the microstructure and the properties of the films were evaluated using atomic force microscopy, resistivity measurements, and UV-visible absorption spectroscopy. The heat treatments were observed to significantly affect the properties such as transmittance in the visible region, optical band gap and the electrical resistivity of the films. The main differences are caused by the differences in thermal expansion coefficient of the substrates as compared to the sputtered ITO films.
MBE Growth of IV-VI Nanowires on a Self-organized Template
Authors: Elizondo Lee Andrew , McCann Patrick , Keay Joel , Johnson Matthew
Published: September 2010

We present the experimental results for the first known molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) growth of quasi-one-dimensional PbSe wires on technologically relevant silicon.In this work, we describe the growth and characterization of low-dimensional IV-VI semiconductors as they evolve from one-dimensional dot/dot-chains to one-dimensional structures on a self-organized template epitaxially grown on Si(110). In situ and ex situ characterization were performed at various stages throughout growth by reflection high energy electron diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and non-contact atomic force microscopy. Initial growths resulted in some preferential alignment of the PbSe dot-chains parallel to the self-organized template in the [-110] direction. By reducing the substrate temperature and increasing the supplemental Se flux, the morphology of dot-chains extend into lengthened one-dimensional structures. This is an important milestone in the fabrication of PbSe quantum wires on technologically relevant silicon.
New Conducting and Semiconducting Polymers for Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Sapp Shawn , Luebben Silvia
Published: September 2010

In the emerging field of low-cost printed electronics there is a lack of solvent processable conducting and semiconducting materials with highly tuned and known electronic properties. Currently the best performing conductors and semiconductors are not sufficient to produce truly printable, cost competitive organic photovoltaics (OPVs). TDA Research, Inc. (TDA) has been investigating a new class of solvent processable intrinsically conducting polymers for use as charge transport and transparent conducting layers in organic electronic devices. We have also begun the manufacture of electron-deficient semiconducting polymers that may prove to be excellent acceptors in bulk hetero-junction OPVs. This paper presents a summary of the materials characterization conducted on TDA's new electronic materials and how these may address several of the pressing issues preventing the realization of low-cost, printed solar cells and flexible electronics devices.
Administration of Omega-3 Fatty Acids Reduces Positive Tender Point Count in Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain Patients
Authors: Fontani Giuliano , Suman Anna Lisa , Migliorini Silvia , Corradeschi Fausto , Ceccarelli Ilaria , Aloisi Annamaria , Carli Giancarlo
Published: September 2010

Dietary supplementation of omega-3 (n-3) is becoming increasingly popular as a complementary treatment of chronic inflammatory pain diseases. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of short-term (35 days) n-3 supplementation on physiological/psychophysical variables and clinical symptoms in patients with musculoskeletal pain and fibromyalgia. Patients (N=41, all women), blindly assigned to two groups according to dietary supplementation (fish oil containing n-3 or sunflower oil), underwent quantitative sensory testing and completed questionnaires concerning anamnestic/epidemiological data, pain characteristics and mood. In the n-3 group there was a sharp reduction in both the arachidonic acid/eicosapentaenoic acid ratio (AA/EPA) and the number of positive tender points, but no changes occurred in superficial thermal (heat and cold) and mechanical thresholds (von Frey hairs). There were no modifications in the sunflower oil group. The supplement had no effect on blood lipids and questionnaires indicated no effect on mood, sleep problems and other pain indicators. The present results encourage clinical trials in larger samples to compare the effects of different daily amounts and treatment durations of n-3 supplementation.
Exploring the Integration of Complementary Medicines into Australian Pharmacy Practice with a Focus on Different Practice Settings and Background Knowledge
Authors: Tiralongo Evelin , Braun Lesley A , Wilkinson Jenny M , Spizer Ondine , Bailey Michael , Poole Susan , Dooley Michael
Published: September 2010

The widespread use of complementary medicines (CMs) within the general community, the health benefits and risks, and the role of pharmacists as advocates of appropriate use of medicines make it imperative to identify how pharmacists meet customers CM information needs and lead quality use of medicine practices in regards to CMs within the pharmacy setting. A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 736 Australian pharmacists as part of a larger study on the use of CM within pharmacy practice. Personal use of CMs was common (76%). Most pharmacists saw CM counselling as their professional obligation, however, mainly regarding safety aspects. Only 24% of pharmacists always asked customers presenting with prescription medicines about concomitant CM use. Only 34% of pharmacists personally recommended CMs and less than 20% notified the respective Australian agency about an adverse drug reaction. On average, pharmacists only achieved about 50% of the knowledge score in a CM knowledge test on clinically proven benefit of CMs and CM-drug interactions. Most pharmacists supported undergraduate (76%) and additional CM education for pharmacists (85%). Many differences between hospital and community pharmacists, pharmacists working in pharmacies with or without an employed naturopath and pharmacists with and without CM training were noted and discussed.
Isotherm and Kinetics Modeling of Fluoride Removal from Industrial Effluent by Alumina
Authors: Murthy Z. V. P. , Prabhakar Telu , Kumar Raj
Published: September 2010

Fluoride contamination occurs in a wide range of industrial wastewater that has to be regulated from time to time. In the present study, wastewater from a polybutadiene rubber plant of Indian Petrochemicals Corporation Limited, Vadodara, Gujarat, India with a higher temperature, acidic pH and high level of fluoride concentration is treated with alumina. The contact time between the adsorbent and the adsorbate should be sufficient for the adsorption to be effective. Though synthetic resins have good adsorption capacity for the wastewater, they have some disadvantages; therefore, alumina has been tried. Properties of alumina, such as pH, bulk density, surface area, pore specific volume, and bulk crushing strength, have been found. Adsorption by alumina is found to be favorable. Five equilibrium adsorption isotherms, viz. Freundlich, Langmuir, Temkin, Harkins-Jura and Halsey, have been tested. It is found that the Halsey and Freundlich adsorption isotherms are fitting the data well. Four kinetic models, viz. Lagergren, pseudo-first-order, second-order, pseudo-second-order and Elovich have been used to find the rate constants. Out of the four kinetic models tested, the pseudo-second-order model fitted the data well in the present case. It is found that when the pH of the wastewater is acidic the adsorption capacity is high. It is also seen that as the temperature of the wastewater increases, the capacity of adsorption also increases.
Current state of particulate matter research and management in Serbia
Authors: Jovasevic-Stojanovic Milena , Bartonova Alena
Published: September 2010

Particulate matter is the air pollutant that currently receives most
attention from the atmospheric research community, the legislative
authorities and the general public. Limiting particulate matter in the
atmosphere which will result in significant benefits for human health, with
associated positive economic consequences. Successful management of
particulate matter requires scientific knowledge about particulate matter
?from cradle to grave?, covering sources of particles, processes that govern
their formation, composition, dispersion and fate in the atmosphere, as well
as knowledge about human exposure and associated health and well being. Such
knowledge allows to design and perform effective and efficient abatement
measures and monitoring. This paper provides an introduction to the research
and monitoring regarding particulate matter in Serbia. The contributions were
first partly presented at the 2nd international workshop of the WeBIOPATR
?Outdoor concentration, size distribution and composition of respirable
particles in WB urban area? project in September 2009. This information
provides context to the contributions in this number, and was part of the
rationale of the project WeBIOPATR.
Clarification and filtration of the floculated partuicles suspension from a chemical treatment of waste oil-in-water emulsions from a non-ferrous metalworking plant
Authors: Lazarevic Vesna , Krstic Ivan , Takic Ljiljana , Lazic Miodrag , Veljkovic Vlada
Published: September 2010

The effects of the coagulation/floculation conditions on clarification and
filtration of the floculated particle suspension obtained by the chemical
treatment of the waste oil-in-water emulsion (OWE) from a non-ferrous
metalworking plant were studied. The treatment involved the addition of
aluminum(III) sulfate and lime to the OWE. The main goal was to define the
optimum conditions for clarification and filtration of the floculated
particle suspension. The factors involved were amounts lime (i.e. pH) and
filter aid added the OWE on clarification and filtration rates. At pH>10, the
clarification rate was increased and the final volume of the concentrated
suspension (sludge) was reduced, while filter aid affected negatively the
clarification rate. The filtration rate was also increased when the
coagulation was carried out at pH>10. The floculated particle suspension
should be concentrated before filtration in order to decrease the filtration
duration. The most efficient filter aid was Celite standard super-cel, its
optimum initial concentration being found to be 2 g/dm3.