bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on Dynamic Analysis of WT for Ceramic Paste Inner Stress
Authors: Zhou Qiang , Zhang Gang Qiang , Yang Bo
Published: August 2011

The distribution of ceramic paste inner stress was studied based on the dynamic wavelet analysis in this paper. According to the pressure signal between the vacuum pug mill and ceramic paste, the distribution of ceramic paste inner stress could be obtained. By adjusting the motor speed of vacuum pug mill, the mutational pressure signal and transient pressure signal from the head wall of vacuum pug mill were extracted, and then the time resolution and frequency resolution were adjusted by WT so that the pressure signal could be analyzed real-timely. Experimental results showed that WT can be used to analyze the different dynamic performance about the pressure signal between the vacuum pug mill and ceramic paste and its time delay was only equivalent to the width of mother function of WT, it ensured the rapidity of measurement about the distribution ceramic paste inner stress.
Research on Guiding Strategies of VMS and their Effects Based on Intelligent Materials
Authors: Pei Yu Long , Li Xue
Published: August 2011

VMS is a typical group-guiding facility of intelligent transport system (ITS) in urban road network. It has been based on certain intelligent materials. In recent years, VMS has been paid extensive attention and applied widely, so the research on its guiding strategies and effects is very important. Based on SP survey, the drivers’ route-choice behavior was compared and analyzed under different guiding strategies of VMS with the development of intelligent materials. This study applied Logit model and BP neural network model to establish respectively the model of calculating the probability of drivers’ changing route according to VMS, and compared these two models, furthermore, new thought of using these two methods comprehensively was put forward. Finally, the present situation of applying VMS in Beijing was concluded by investigating the drivers’ evaluation and suggestion about VMS guiding effects, that is, VMS application has obtained sound effects up to now.
Experimental Study on the FBG Sensing Character under Three-Dimensional Uniform Stress Field
Authors: Wu Zhao Xia , Mao Rui , Zhang Zhi Yuan , Kong Zhi
Published: August 2011

FBG sensing character and model under three-dimensional stress are studyed in this paper. FBG center wavelength shifts of the two polarization directions are different and the shifts are determined by the changes of refractive index and the axial stain. The experiment indicates that the resonance peak wavelength shift amounts of the two directions are proportional to the transverse load.
The Laboratorial Research on Ultimate Stress of Material
Authors: Wang Hong , Yao Fang , Wang Li Fu
Published: August 2011

Based on the relation between the incipient yield pressure and the limit of yielding in cylinder according to the elastic disabled rule, a laboratorial method of determining limit of yielding of material is designed and a set of experimental data were gained by the method. The incipient yield pressure of the cylinder is gained by analyzing the experimental data, and then the limit of yielding is gained. The laboratorial method has a good reliability as the experimental value has a little error to the theory value. It has a definite engineering signification and theory value to research the mechanical capability of material and the disabled rule of high pressure vessel.
Biosorption Applications of Flavobacterium sp. Biomass for Decolorization of Soluble Reactive Light-Yellow K-4G Solutions
Authors: Zhang Kui , Xing Hong Qiao , Wang Yao Qing
Published: August 2011

The optimal conditions of production of flocculant by the culture of Flavobacterium sp. were examined, using molasses wastewater to replace glucose as carbon source and energy source in the culture medium. Results showed that the COD concentration in molasses wastewater favorable for the growth of the Flavobacterium sp.was 5000 mg•L-1, and inoculum size of 5%(v/v), 30°C, initial pH 7.0 and shaking speed of 150 r•min-1, under the optimal culture conditions, the highest flocculating activity achieved for Kaolin suspension was 95.0% and 4.0 g biomass /L broth was obtained. The Flavobacterium sp. biomass was effective in flocculating some soluble reactive dyes in aqueous solution, reactive Light-Yellow K-4G with a decolorization efficiency of 98.5, using 20 mL of the flocculant in 500 mL of 100 mg•L-1 dye solution.
Design and Implementation of a Novel Intelligent Curtain Module System
Authors: Zhang Jian Bi
Published: August 2011

Intelligent curtain system can be time switch and achieve more advanced control functions as scene control. The paper introduced curtain applications, electric curtain classification as well as intelligent curtain with new functions. Based on requirements analysis on intelligent curtain of hotel room, functional division of intelligent curtain module was determined. MCU control circuit, data storage circuit and motor drive circuit were designed. The I/O interface of AT89C4051 was used to implement functions of key signal input, voice broadcast or timekeeping. CAN bus was used for communication to complete required curtain linkage function when guest plug card.
Study on Supporting Platform and Working Mechanism for Service Innovation of Manufacturing Enterprises
Authors: Qin Shi Bo
Published: August 2011

At present, the world economy has entered a service economy, represented by post-industrial society, consumers have become the key link in the market, service has become an important factor of the core competitiveness for manufacturing enterprises, and service innovation as an independent innovation has become increasingly important in the manufacturing enterprises development. Service innovation of manufacturing companies needs a wider range of knowledge coming from technology, customer and market, through analysis of influencing factors that may affect manufacturing enterprises’ implementation of customer-oriented service innovative, this paper explored the needs, process and characteristics of service innovation, built a customer-oriented platform of service innovation, and described its working mechanism. Wish to provide useful lessons for promoting change of economic growth pattern, promoting the growth of corporate profits and upgrading our manufacturing.
Design of Accelerator in Wind Power Generator with Creative Mechanical Design Methodology
Authors: Zhang Bo , Qiu Ji Ning , Dong Hui Min
Published: August 2011

With today’s rapid development of science and technology, mechanical design calls for more advanced methodologies. The Creative Mechanical Design Methodology established by Yan [1] is one of the most effective ways to form new mechanisms according to existing ones based on certain requirements. However, few research of this method applied on transmission mechanism exists, especially gear trains with large rated power and transmission ratio. This paper introduces how the Creative Mechanical Design Methodology is applied in the design of the accelerator (gear box) with an output power of 1.25 MW in wind power generator. In the process, feasible schemes are obtained following the steps of Creative Mechanical Designing, and an evaluation based on practical manufacturing, assembly and application situations is conducted to obtain the best mechanism among all these schemes.
Analyze of Traditional Clothing Manufacturing Technology and Five Traditional Colors Based on Management Principle
Authors: Wu Xue Ping , Zhou Yue Xi
Published: August 2011

Traditional costume color research of the new age dress creation has far-reaching influence. With the development of our national economy architects reinforced, about clothing on a traditional symbol of topic more and more attention by people, compatriots on traditional costume culture scan again and thinking. This paper attempts using the principles of management analyze the Chinese traditional clothing manufacturing technology and five traditional colors.
Formation of Copper-Related Deep-Level Centers in Irradiated P-Type Silicon
Authors: Yarykin Nikolai , Weber Jörg
Published: August 2011

Results of a DLTS study on the deep-level centers in the copper-contaminated electron-irradiated FZ-Si are presented. Copper was diffused from the Cu-contaminated surface into previously irradiated samples at 350 K. The most abundant Cu-related complexes formed due to this procedure are the same as in the case of previously studied Cu-diffused Cz-Si.
Carrier Lifetime Studies in Diode Structures on Si Substrates with and without Ge Doping
Authors: Uleckas Aurimas , Gaubas Eugenijus , Rafi Joan Marc , Chen Jiahe , Yang De Ren , Ohyama Hidenori , Simoen Eddy , Vanhellemont Jan
Published: August 2011

Results are presented of a comparative study of diodes processed on n-type Cz grown Si substrates without and with Ge doping concentration of about 1019 cm-3 and 1020 cm-3. In order to investigate thermal donor formation, isothermal annealing at 450°C for 0.5 – 5 h was carried out. As processed diodes were also irradiated with 2 MeV electrons with fluences in the range between 1014 and 1017 e/cm2 to investigate the Ge doping influence on irradiation induced defect formation. Diodes after thermal and radiation treatments have been investigated by combining different techniques.
cDNA cloning, expression and regulation analysis of goose adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) gene
Authors: Lu Lizhi , Wang Fang , Chen Xiaoyan , Yuan Hao , Tian Yong , Li Jinjun , Shen Junda , Tao Zhengrong , Fu Yan
Published: August 2011

Lu, L., Wang, F., Chen, X., Yuan, H., Tian, Y., Li, J., Shen, J., Tao, Z. and Fu, Y. 2011. cDNA cloning, expression and regulation analysis of goose adipose triglyceride lipase ( ATGL ) gene. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 91: 363–369. Adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) has an important role in adiposome turnover in mammals. In avian species, the ATGL gene has been reported in chicken, duck, quail, turkey and parrot. We describe here the cloning and characterization of the ATGL in goose. Goose ATGL encodes a 482-amino-acid protein, which contains a “GXSXG” motif and 169-amino acid “patatin” domain. The deduced goose ATGL protein shows more than 85% identity to the reported avian species. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR analysis reveals that the goose ATGL mRNA is more highly expressed in subcutaneous fat. We also identify changes of goose ATGL mRNA expression pattern after over-feeding treatment, which may reveal that expression of ATGL in obesity is tissue-specific in goose. Moreover, we conclude that the mRNA level of ATGL can be regulated by oleic acid in goose adipocytes.
Novel one‐step synthesis to cross‐linked polymeric nanoparticles as highly active and selective catalysts for cycloaddition of CO2 to epoxides
Authors: Xiong Yubing , Wang Yujiao , Wang Hong , Wang Rongmin , Cui Zipeng
Published: August 2011

Highly cross‐linked polymeric nanoparticles were prepared via novel one‐step synthesis by copolymerizing ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) and the ionic liquid, 1‐vinyl‐3‐(2‐methoxy‐2‐oxyl ethyl) imidazolium chloride ([VMIm]Cl). The results indicated that nanoparticles with the average size of about 350 nm could be obtained conveniently through the cross‐linking copolymerization. The nanoparticles were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, Fourier transform Infrared, thermo gravimetric analysis, element analysis, and X‐ray diffraction techniques. Moreover, the cross‐linked polymeric nanoparticles were highly active and selective catalysts for the cycloaddition reaction of carbon dioxide to epoxides. The influences of reaction time, reaction temperature, CO2 pressure, and amount of catalyst on yield of the products were investigated. The results revealed that cyclic carbonates with high yield (98.4%) and selectivity (100%) could be produced on the condition of 0.1 g catalyst, 5 MPa CO2, 160°C and 12 h. In addition, the nanocatalysts could be easily recovered by filtration, and reused several times with only slight loss of catalytic activity. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Highly sensitive chemiluminescence determination of tenoxicam using a cerium(IV)–sodium hyposulphite system in micellar medium
Authors: Chen Siyu , Zhao Fang
Published: August 2011

A simple, rapid and precise flow‐injection–chemiluminescence (FI–CL) method is presented for the determination of tenoxicam in pharmaceutical preparations and biological samples. The method is based on the weak chemiluminescence signal arising from the reaction of cerium(IV) in a nitric acid medium with sodium hyposulphite being significantly increased by tenoxicam in the presence of sodium dodecyl benzene sulphonate. Several experimental parameters affecting the CL reaction were examined and optimized systematically. Under the optimum conditions, the CL intensity was proportional to the concentration of tenoxicam in the range 7.0 × 10–11–5.0 × 10–8 g/mL. The detection limit was 2.3 × 10–11 g/mL tenoxicam and the relative standard deviation (RSD) was 2.1% for 1.0 × 10–9 g/mL tenoxicam solution (n = 11). The proposed method was applied to the determination of tenoxicam in pharmaceutical preparations, serum and human urine, with satisfactory results. The possible mechanism of the chemiluminescence reaction is also briefly discussed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Implementation of an embedded mobile device based feedback system for real‐time audience feedback
Authors: Knutas Antti , Hämäläinen Harri , Ikonen Jouni , Porras Jari
Published: August 2011

The article presents design and implementation of a mobile device based feedback system for lectures. The system permits participants to use mobile devices to post questions to the presenter's screen without interrupting the spoken flow of the presentation. Tests in conferences showed that the system increases the amount of feedback. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 21:E31–E40, 2013
Electronic Effect of Substituents on the DNA Intercalation of Ruthenium(II)Polypyridyl Complexes
Authors: Zheng Chang‐Ge , Ma Chun‐Lei , Yu Xiao‐Wei , Qian Qian‐Li , Song Yang , Kong Jun , Xu Yan
Published: August 2011

Five ruthenium(II) complexes, i.e., [Ru(bpy)2(TIP)]2+ (bpy=2,2′‐bipyridine; TIP=2‐thiophenimidazo[4,5‐f] [1,10]phenanthroline; 1), [Ru(bpy)2(5‐NTIP)]2+ (5‐NTIP=2‐(5‐nitrothiophen)imidazo[4,5‐f] [1,10]phenanthroline; 2), [Ru(bpy)2(5‐MOTIP)]2+ (5‐MOTIP=2‐(5‐methoxythiophen)imidazo[4,5‐f] [1,10]phenanthroline; 3), [Ru(bpy)2(5‐BTIP)]2+ (5‐BTIP=2‐(5‐bromothiophen)imidazo[4,5‐f] [1,10]phenanthroline; 4), and [Ru(bpy)2(4‐BTIP)]2+ (4‐BTIP=2‐(4‐bromothiophen)imidazo[4,5‐f] [1,10]phenanthroline; 5), were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis and UV/VIS, IR, and 1H‐NMR spectroscopic methods. The photophysical and DNA‐binding properties were investigated by means of UV and fluorescence spectroscopic methods and viscosity measurements, respectively. The results suggest that all five complexes can bind to CT‐DNA with various binding strength. Complexes 2 and 3 showed the strongest and the weakest binding affinity, respectively, among these five complexes. Due to the substituent position of the Br‐atom in the ligand, complex 5 interacted stronger with CT‐DNA than complex 4. The binding affinities of the complexes decreased in the order 2, 5, 4, 1, and 3.
Stability Studies on Random Folded RNAs (‘Never Born RNAs’), Implications for the RNA World
Authors: Anella Fabrizio , Chiarabelli Cristiano , De Lucrezia Davide , Luisi Pier Luigi
Published: August 2011

In the last years, we have developed a method for the study of random RNA sequences with the aim of investigating their capacity to assume folded and possibly functionally active (ribozymes) structures. The RNA Foster assay developed in our laboratory is a powerful, simple, and fast method to investigate the structural properties of RNA by assessing the presence of secondary domains and their thermal stability through the combination of S1 nuclease activity at different temperatures. In this work, we investigated the structural properties of totally de novo random RNAs, 97‐nucleotides‐long, of which 60 nucleotides were completely random. The rationale behind this was to assess whether and to what extent random RNAs would acquire a stable fold as a prerequisite for catalytic activity. A library of random sequences was created, and 18 sequences were randomly selected and analyzed. Surprisingly, most of the RNAs were resistant to S1 nuclease digestion at up to 50°, and two sequences were resistant even at 70°, suggesting that these totally random RNA molecules could posses a stable secondary structure over a broad range of temperatures under the conditions used. We discuss the possible relevance of these data for the general scenario of the RNA world.
N‐Methyl‐Substituted Fluorescent DAG–Indololactone Isomers Exhibit Dramatic Differences in Membrane Interactions and Biological Activity
Authors: Gal Noga , Kolusheva Sofiya , Kedei Noemi , Telek Andrea , Naeem Taiyabah A. , Lewin Nancy E. , Lim Langston , Mannan Poonam , Garfield Susan H. , El Kazzouli Saïd , Sigano Dina M. , Marquez Victor E. , Blumberg Peter M. , Jelinek Raz
Published: August 2011

N‐methyl‐substituted diacylglycerol–indololactones (DAG–indololactones) are newly synthesized effectors of protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms and exhibit substantial selectivity between RasGRP3 and PKCα. We present a comprehensive analysis of membrane interactions and biological activities of several DAG–indololactones. Translocation and binding activity assays underline significant variations between the PKC translocation characteristics affected by the ligands as compared to their binding activities. In parallel, the fluorescent properties of the ligands were employed for analysis of their membrane association profiles. Specifically, we found that a slight change in the linkage to the indole ring resulted in significant differences in membrane binding and association of the DAG–indololactones with lipid bilayers. Our analysis shows that seemingly small structural modifications of the hydrophobic regions of these biomimetic PKC effectors contribute to pronounced modulation of membrane interactions of the ligands.
Inhibition of Amyloid Aggregation by Formation of Helical Assemblies
Authors: Brandenburg Enrico , von Berlepsch Hans , Gerling Ulla I. M. , Böttcher Christoph , Koksch Beate
Published: August 2011

The formation of amyloid aggregates is responsible for a wide range of diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Although the amyloid‐forming proteins have different structures and sequences, all undergo a conformational change to form amyloid aggregates that have a characteristic cross‐β‐structure. The mechanistic details of this process are poorly understood, but different strategies for the development of inhibitors of amyloid formation have been proposed. In most cases, chemically diverse compounds bind to an elongated form of the protein in a β‐strand conformation and thereby exert their therapeutic effect. However, this approach could favor the formation of prefibrillar oligomeric species, which are thought to be toxic. Herein, we report an alternative approach in which a helical coiled‐coil‐based inhibitor peptide has been designed to engage a coiled‐coil‐based amyloid‐forming model peptide in a stable coiled‐coil arrangement, thereby preventing rearrangement into a β‐sheet conformation and the subsequent formation of amyloid‐like fibrils. Moreover, we show that the helix‐forming peptide is able to disassemble mature amyloid‐like fibrils.
Multimodal Metal Cation Sensing with Bis(macrocyclic) Dye
Authors: Tulyakova Elena , Delbaere Stephanie , Fedorov Yuri , Jonusauskas Gedaminas , Moiseeva Anna , Fedorova Olga
Published: August 2011

The synthesis, electrochemical, optical, and cation sensing properties of a bis(macrocyclic) dye 1, in which the benzo‐15‐crown‐5 and phenylazathia‐15‐crown‐5 subunits are linked through a styryl pyridinium moiety, are reported. In this new ditopic receptor, the benzo‐15‐crown‐5 macrocycle acts as a highly selective binding site for alkaline earth metal cations (MgII and BaII), whereas the phenylazathia‐15‐crown‐5 displays a strong binding affinity towards soft heavy‐metal cations (HgII and AgI). The pronounced changes of the absorption and fluorescence spectra of this bichromophoric dye observed upon different metal cation addition make the dye suitable for dual‐wavelength analysis and offer an enticing potential for multitasking sensors.
Coastal storm characterization and morphological impacts on sandy coasts
Authors: Rangel‐Buitrago N. , Anfuso G.
Published: August 2011

The present work deals with storm classification, using the Storm Power Index, and beach morphological response to storm events in the Gulf of Cadiz (SW Spain). Over the 1958–2001 period, 377 events divided into five classes ranging from ‘weak’ to ‘extreme’ were characterized. Classes I (weak) and II (moderate) accounted for 60% and 23% of events, respectively. Class III (significant), were 9% of the recorded events and Classes IV (severe) and V (extreme) accounted for 5% and 2%, respectively. The probability of storm occurrence per year ranged from 93% for Class I to 15% for Class V. In order to characterize beach response to storm events, 214 beach profiles carried out with a monthly periodicity over the 1996–1998 period along the Chipiona‐Rota littoral were analysed, as well as published data. Different beach types were observed: (i) ‘Intermediate’ beaches underwent important vertical relief changes ranging from 0.3 m to 1.33 m associated with average slope changes from tan β = 0.06 to tan β = 0.03; (ii) the ‘dissipative’ beaches were characterized by smaller and homogeneous foreshore vertical changes, from c. 0.36 m to 0.65 m, according to the parallel retreat mechanism characterized by small slope variations (from tan β = 0.025 to tan β = 0.035); and (iii) ‘intermediate with rock shore platform’ experienced small morphological and foreshore slope variations, related to both beach pivoting and parallel retreat mechanisms. The most important morphological changes were due to the impact of usually ‘weak’ and ‘moderate’ events during October and November that produced berm erosion and upper foreshore lowering, and the impact of ‘severe’, ‘significant’ and ‘extreme’ events in December and January which produced dune escarpment, overwash and/or damage to coastal structures. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Manganese(III) Acetate Catalyzed Oxidative Radical Additions of α‐Dicarbonyl Compounds to 1‐ and 2‐Phenylcyclohepta‐1,3,5‐triene
Authors: Findik Esra , Ceylan Mustafa
Published: August 2011

Manganese(III) acetate catalyzed oxidative radical‐addition reactions of α‐dicarbonyl compounds such as methyl acetoacetate (6), acetylacetone (7), and dimedone (8) to the mixture of 1‐ and 2‐phenylcyclohepta‐1,3,5‐triene (4 and 5) were investigated (Scheme 1). The 1‐phenylcyclohepta‐1,3,5‐triene (4) formed mainly [2+3] and [4+3] dihydrofuran addition products derived from cycloheptatriene and [2+3] dihydrofuran addition products derived from the norcaradiene structure. The 2‐phenylcyclohepta‐1,3,5‐triene (5) formed mainly [6+3] dihydrofuran addition products derived from cycloheptatriene and [4+3] dihydrofuran addition products derived from the norcaradiene structure. The structures of isolated products were established by their spectroscopic data (IR, 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR, MS, and elemental analysis) and comparison with literature data. The formation mechanism of the products is discussed.
Sea spray concentrations and the icing of fixed offshore structures
Authors: Jones Kathleen F. , Andreas Edgar L
Published: August 2011

We compile measurements of sea spray droplet concentrations near the ocean surface for wind speeds from 0 to 28.8 m s−1. We plot each concentration distribution with the Andreas/Fairall spray generation function for that wind speed to display the production velocity distribution that is required for them to be compatible. The comparison shows that the equilibrium assumption is not consistent with this spray generation function. As an alternative, we try a spray concentration function from the literature and find that it represents the data well for moderate to high wind speeds. Using the compiled data, we then extend this concentration function to the very high wind speeds that generate spume droplets. This function has a stronger dependence on wind speed and a longer tail than the concentration function for jet and film droplets produced by bursting bubbles in whitecaps. To validate these concentration functions, we use a simple ice accretion model with weather data and icing observations from two offshore platforms. The results show that moderate‐to‐high wind speeds that generate film and jet droplets result in small ice accumulations. However, larger spume droplets created at very high wind speeds produce high icing rates. The spray generation function that is consistent with the equilibrium assumption has a median volume droplet radius characteristic of jet droplets for moderate and high wind speeds and a radius that is characteristic of spume droplets at very high speeds. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
On the Performance of Two‐sided Control Charts for Short Production Runs
Authors: Li Yan , Pu Xiaolong
Published: August 2011

In this paper, statistical performance measures for short‐run production are summarized and proposed. Evaluation and computation based on these performance measures were developed for the two‐sided Shewhart, cumulative sum, and exponentially weighted moving average control charts. Applying these measures, we provided numerical illustrations to compare the efficiency of the three charts and the corresponding Q charts in the cases of known and unknown nominal values of process parameters. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DEFINING MINIMUM ENVIRONMENTAL FLOWS AT REGIONAL SCALE: APPLICATION OF MESOSCALE HABITAT MODELS AND CATCHMENTS CLASSIFICATION
Authors: Vezza P. , Parasiewicz P. , Rosso M. , Comoglio C.
Published: August 2011

In the context of water resources planning, this work defined a possible approach to quantify minimum environmental flows (e‐flows) at a regional scale. Focusing on catchments smaller than 50 km2, the problem was addressed through mesoscale habitat models and a catchment classification technique (regression tree algorithm). Within the Piedmont region in NW Italy, 25 reference streams were chosen on the basis of the natural condition of the flow regime and fish community. Mesohabitats were sampled for hydromorphic and fish parameters following the mesoscale habitat models approach. Logistic regression models, along with 55 habitat descriptors, were then used to build multivariate habitat suitability criteria, identifying the habitat characteristics mostly used by the target fish species. These models were applied to each stream reach and used to classify each mesohabitat into suitability categories. The reference minimum discharge for each stream was derived from habitat–flow rating curves. Finally, to define the regional criteria, the study domain was split according to the regression tree classification, defining homogenous sub‐regions distinct on both e‐flows and catchment/stream characteristics. This bottom–up approach used a catchment classification technique based on the environmental requirements of the fish communities and demonstrated potentials for further applications to defining e‐flows at regional scales. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Die Vakuumtechnik
Authors: Jorisch Wolfgang
Published: August 2011

Schon die Genesis, das erste Buch Mose, spricht zu Beginn der Schöpfungsgeschichte vom Vakuum, der Leere oder dem Nichts: „und die Erde war wüst und leer, und es war finster auf der Tiefe”︁. Einen Satz weiter heißt es dann: „und Gott sprach, es werde Licht und es ward Licht”︁. Ich möchte mir nicht anmaßen, einen religiösen Bezug zur Vakuumtechnik herzustellen, aber wir können festhalten, bereits die Bibel stellt einen Zusammenhang zwischen dem Nichts, dem Vakuum und dem Licht her.
A cross-corpus study of subjectivity identification using unsupervised learning
Authors: WANG DONG , LIU YANG
Published: August 2011

In this study, we investigate using unsupervised generative learning methods for subjectivity detection across different domains. We create an initial training set using simple lexicon information and then evaluate two iterative learning methods with a base naive Bayes classifier to learn from unannotated data. The first method is self-training, which adds instances with high confidence into the training set in each iteration. The second is a calibrated EM (expectation-maximization) method where we calibrate the posterior probabilities from EM such that the class distribution is similar to that in the real data. We evaluate both approaches on three different domains: movie data, news resource, and meeting dialogues, and we found that in some cases the unsupervised learning methods can achieve performance close to the fully supervised setup. We perform a thorough analysis to examine factors, such as self-labeling accuracy of the initial training set in unsupervised learning, the accuracy of the added examples in self-training, and the size of the initial training set in different methods. Our experiments and analysis show inherent differences across domains and impacting factors explaining the model behaviors.
The institutionalization of a parliamentary dimension of an intergovernmental organization: the WTO
Authors: ROMMETVEDT HILMAR
Published: August 2011

The article analyses the development of a parliamentary dimension of the WTO from the first informal meetings of parliamentarians in 1996, via the adoption of Rules of Procedure for yearly Parliamentary Conferences on the WTO in 2004, to March 2011 when for the first time the Parliamentary Conference took place on the premises of the WTO. The author presents theoretical contributions that may explain why national parliamentarians engage in an intergovernmental organization such as the WTO. The development of the parliamentary dimension is related to the crumbling borderline between domestic and international affairs. Finally, the article raises a number of questions for further research, and for consideration among parliamentarians as well as in the WTO.
Efficient green electrophosphorescence based on ambipolar nonconjugated polymers: Evaluation of transport and emission properties
Authors: Bagnich S. A. , Unger Th. , Jaiser F. , Neher D. , Thesen M. W. , Krueger H.
Published: August 2011

New materials for polymer organic light-emitting diodes based on a polymer matrix doped with phosphorescent dyes are presented. The matrix system is based on a polystyrene backbone bearing either electron or hole transporting units at the 4-position of each repeat unit. Random copolymers and polymer blend systems of the homopolymers are prepared, both with 62 wt.% electron transporting and 38 wt.% hole transporting moieties. Adding a green electrophosphorescent dye to the polymer matrix leads to efficient electroluminescence with a maximum current efficiency of 35 cd/A and a maximum external quantum efficiency of up to 10%. The mobilities of electrons and holes in the dye-doped copolymer, as measured by transient electroluminescence, are around 5 × 10−5 and 5 × 10−6 cm2/Vs, respectively, while the blend of the two homopolymers exhibits slightly lower mobilities of both types of carriers. Despite the pronounced imbalance of charge transport, the device performance is almost entirely limited by the phosphorescence efficiency of the dye, implying balanced flow of holes and electrons into the active region. Also, devices made with either the copolymer or the blend yielded very similar device efficiencies, despite the noticeable difference in electron and hole mobility. It is proposed that electrons are efficiently blocked at the interlayer and that the so-formed space charge assists the balanced injection of holes.
Insertion of CdSe quantum dots in ZnSe nanowires: Correlation of structural and chemical characterization with photoluminescence
Authors: Den Hertog M. , Elouneg-Jamroz M. , Bellet-Amalric E. , Bounouar S. , Bougerol C. , André R. , Genuist Y. , Poizat J. P. , Kheng K. , Tatarenko S.
Published: August 2011

ZnSe nanowires with CdSe quantum dot insertions were grown by molecular beam epitaxy using gold as a catalyst. Structural, chemical, and optical properties of the wires and quantum dots were characterized using electron microscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. We determined the crystalline structure, the chemical composition, and the size of the quantum dot and established a correlation between quantum dot size and luminescence. As expected, a blueshift of the luminescence was observed for decreasing quantum dot size. The comparison of calculated photoluminescence energy and experimental data seems to indicate that the quantum dots consist of a ZnxCd1-xSe ternary alloy rather than pure CdSe.
Effect of titanium interlayer on the microstructure and electron emission characteristics of multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Sharma Himani , Shukla A. K. , Vankar V. D.
Published: August 2011

The influence of the titanium (Ti) interlayer thickness on the growth and electron emission characteristics of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) deposited on silicon (Si) coated with an iron (Fe) catalyst layer was investigated. Ti films 5 nm, 10 nm, and 15 nm in thickness were deposited beneath the Fe catalyst layers. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were deposited via microwave plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The Ti interlayer hinders the diffusion of Fe into the silicon substrate and thus helps in the growth of MWCNTs. In addition, the role of Ti as a sacrificial layer on the catalytic diffusion, surface morphology, microstructure, and, thus, the growth of MWCNTs was probed through scanning and high resolution transmission electron microscope studies. The enhanced electron emission mechanism as a result of the introduction of a Ti interlayer is explained on the basis of a double barrier model and the formation of a conducting channel between the substrate and the CNTs. The intensified micro-Raman characteristics of the MWCNTs were directly related with the thickness of the Ti interlayer in the three layered system (Ti/Fe/CNT) as compared to a two layer system (Fe/CNT) deposited on a Si substrate.
Structural basis of simultaneous recruitment of the transcriptional regulators LMO2 and FOG1/ZFPM1 by the transcription factor GATA1
Authors: Wilkinson-White Lorna , Gamsjaeger Roland , Dastmalchi Siavoush , Wienert Beeke , Stokes Philippa H. , Crossley Merlin , Mackay Joel P. , Matthews Jacqueline M.
Published: August 2011

The control of red blood cell and megakaryocyte development by the regulatory protein GATA1 is a paradigm for transcriptional regulation of gene expression in cell lineage differentiation and maturation. Most GATA1-regulated events require GATA1 to bind FOG1, and essentially all GATA1-activated genes are cooccupied by a TAL1/E2A/LMO2/LDB1 complex; however, it is not known whether FOG1 and TAL1/E2A/LMO2/LDB1 are simultaneously recruited by GATA1. Our structural data reveal that the FOG1-binding domain of GATA1, the N finger, can also directly contact LMO2 and show that, despite the small size (< 50 residues) of the GATA1 N finger, both FOG1 and LMO2 can simultaneously bind this domain. LMO2 in turn can simultaneously contact both GATA1 and the DNA-binding protein TAL1/E2A at bipartite E-box/WGATAR sites. Taken together, our data provide the first structural snapshot of multiprotein complex formation at GATA1-dependent genes and support a model in which FOG1 and TAL1/E2A/LMO2/LDB1 can cooccupy E-box/WGATAR sites to facilitate GATA1-mediated activation of gene activation.
Mechanosensitive EPLIN-dependent remodeling of adherens junctions regulates epithelial reshaping
Authors: Taguchi Katsutoshi , Ishiuchi Takashi , Takeichi Masatoshi
Published: August 2011

The zonula adherens (ZA), a type of adherens junction (AJ), plays a major role in epithelial cell–cell adhesions. It remains unknown how the ZA is remodeled during epithelial reorganization. Here we found that the ZA was converted to another type of AJ with punctate morphology (pAJ) at the margins of epithelial colonies. The F-actin–stabilizing protein EPLIN (epithelial protein lost in neoplasm), which functions to maintain the ZA via its association with αE-catenin, was lost in the pAJs. Consistently, a fusion of αE-catenin and EPLIN contributed to the formation of ZA but not pAJs. We show that junctional tension was important for retaining EPLIN at AJs, and another force derived from actin fibers laterally attached to the pAJs inhibited EPLIN–AJ association. Vinculin was required for general AJ formation, and it cooperated with EPLIN to maintain the ZA. These findings suggest that epithelial cells remodel their junctional architecture by responding to mechanical forces, and the αE-catenin–bound EPLIN acts as a mechanosensitive regulator for this process.
Stable forest–savanna mosaic in north‐western Tanzania: local‐scale evidence from δ13C signatures and 14C ages of soil fractions
Authors: Wiedemeier Daniel B. , Bloesch Urs , Hagedorn Frank
Published: August 2011

Aim  The spatio‐temporal dynamics of dry evergreen forest patches in the savanna biome of the Kagera region (north‐western Tanzania) are largely unknown owing to a lack of pollen and macrofossil evidence. Our aims were to reconstruct local‐scale shifts of the forest–savanna boundary in order to determine whether the forests have been expanding or retreating on a centennial and millennial time‐scale.

Location  The Kagera region of north‐western Tanzania, East Africa.

Methods  The vegetation reconstruction was based on analysing δ13C signatures in soils along a transect spanning both C4 open savanna and C3 forest vegetation. Furthermore, we fractionated soil organic matter (SOM) according to density and chemical stability to analyse δ13C values of soil fractions with distinct radiocarbon ages.

Results  We found sharp changes in δ13C signatures in bulk SOM from the forest to the savanna, within a few metres along the transect. The forest soil profiles carried a persistent C3‐dominated signature. Radiocarbon dating of the oldest, most recalcitrant forest soil fraction yielded a mean age of 5500 cal. yr bp, demonstrating that the forest has existed since at least the mid‐Holocene. The savanna sites showed a typical C4 isotopic signature in SOM of topsoils, but subsoils and more recalcitrant SOM fractions also contained signals of C3 plants. The dense soil fraction (ρ > 1.6 g cm−3) carrying a pure C4 label had a mean age of c. 1200 cal. yr bp, indicating the minimum duration of the dominance of grass vegetation on the savanna site. At the forest edge, the older C4 grass signature of SOM has steadily been replaced by the more negative δ13C fingerprint of the forest trees. As this replacement has occurred mainly in the 10‐m‐wide forest–savanna ecotone over the last c. 1200 years, the forest expansion must be very slow and is very likely less than 15 m century−1.

Main conclusions  Our results suggest that forest patches in the Kagera savanna landscape are very stable vegetation formations which have persisted for millennia. During the last millennium, they have been expanding very slowly into the surrounding savanna at a rate of less than 15 m century−1.
Quality in e‐learning – a conceptual framework based on experiences from three international benchmarking projects
Authors: Ossiannilsson E. , Landgren L.
Published: August 2011

Between 2008 and 2010, Lund University took part in three international benchmarking projects, E‐xcellence+, the eLearning Benchmarking Exercise 2009, and the First Dual‐Mode Distance Learning Benchmarking Club.

A comparison of these models revealed a rather high level of correspondence. From this finding and from desktop studies of the current discourse regarding e‐learning, a conceptual framework for e‐learning has emerged based on a range of critical success factors. This model could be used as a foundation for future e‐learning and as an inspiration to develop, implement, evaluate, and internalize e‐learning. It shows that various aspects of accessibility, flexibility, interactiveness, personalization, and productivity should be embedded in all levels of management and services within the field of e‐learning in higher education. To meet students' expectations, demands, and rights, these critical issues should be taken into account from a holistic perspective with transparency and innovation in mind.

Therefore, successful e‐learning requires change from an organizational as well as a pedagogical perspective. One conclusion from this study is that a revolution is on the way and that learning will be reoriented along paradigms of collaboration and networking. Globalization, sustainability, and lifelong learning will be some of the leading concepts in this process.
Refuelling of vehicles, the use of wood burners and the risk of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in childhood
Authors: Bailey Helen D. , de Klerk Nicholas H. , Fritschi Lin , Attia John , Daubenton John D. , Armstrong Bruce K. , Milne Elizabeth ,   for the Aus‐ALL Consortium
Published: August 2011

Bailey HD, de Klerk NH, Fritschi L, Attia J, Daubenton JD, Armstrong BK, Milne E for the Aus‐ALL Consortium. Refuelling of vehicles, the use of wood burners and the risk of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in childhood. Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology 2011; 25: 528–539.

It is plausible that exposure of the parents before birth or of the child to sources of benzene increases the risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). The aim of this analysis was to investigate whether refuelling a vehicle with petrol before birth or burning wood to heat the home before or after the child's birth increased the risk of childhood ALL. Data from 389 cases and 876 frequency‐matched controls were analysed using unconditional logistic regression, adjusting for study matching factors and potential confounders. The odds ratio (OR) for the mother ever refuelling a vehicle with petrol for non‐occupational purposes before or during the pregnancy was 0.97 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.69, 1.38]. The OR for the father for this exposure in the year before conception was 0.88 [95% CI 0.52, 1.48]. The OR for use of a closed wood burner to heat the home in the year before or during pregnancy was 1.41 [95% CI 1.02, 1.94] and 1.25 [95% CI 0.92, 1.70] after birth. We found no evidence that non‐occupational refuelling a vehicle with petrol in the year before or during pregnancy increased the risk of ALL in the offspring. There was weak evidence that burning wood in a closed burner to heat the home increased the risk, but there was no dose–response relationship and chance could explain the finding.
The application of multiparameter reference intervals for pre‐donation capillary blood counts: the experience of a single institution
Authors: Pierelli L. , Zennaro F. , Chiarioni S. , Miceli M.
Published: August 2011

Objectives: To evaluate a set of reference counts applied to multiparameter pre‐counts in blood donors.

Aim: Analyse the impact of pre‐donation counts and specific reference intervals on donors' management.

Background: Multiparameter blood counts allow an improved enrolment process of blood donors due to a prompt identification of abnormalities involving haemoglobin (Hb), white blood cells (WBC) and platelets (PLT).

Methods/Materials: Multiple pre‐donation capillary counts were applied in the enrolment process of 13 347 consecutive donors. The rate of specific alterations of permanent exclusion and donor readmittance to donations for temporary exclusion had been evaluated, applying a set of multiparameter reference intervals.

Results: Alterations involved Hb in 72·55% of cases, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) in 20·99%, total WBC in 9·39%, lymphocytes in 7·55% and PLT in 6·07%. Among donors with initial alterations (543; 4·06%), 12·70% were readmitted to donations within 15 days, 14·36% had permanent exclusion, 36·83% underwent prompt supplementation treatment and 36·09% were lost at follow‐up or refused treatments.

Discussion: The systematic use of blood count reference intervals and pre‐donation multiparameter blood counts allowed prompt identification of WBC, PLT and MCV alterations, readmittance within 15 days of 12·70% of initially excluded donors and contributed to prompt management of supplement deficiency.
Approximate Bayesian computation reveals the factors that influence genetic diversity and population structure of foxsnakes
Authors: ROW J. R. , BROOKS R. J. , MacKINNON C. A. , LAWSON A. , CROTHER B. I. , WHITE M. , LOUGHEED S. C.
Published: August 2011

Contemporary geographical range and patterns of genetic diversity within species reflect complex interactions between multiple factors acting across spatial and temporal scales, and it is notoriously difficult to disentangle causation. Here, we quantify patterns of genetic diversity and genetic population structure using mitochondrial DNA sequences (101 individuals, cytochrome b) and microsatellites (816 individuals, 12 loci) and use Approximate Bayesian computation methods to test competing models of the demographic history of eastern and western foxsnakes. Our analyses indicate that post‐glacial colonization and past population declines, probably caused by the infilling of deciduous forest and cooler temperatures since the mid‐Holocene, largely underpin large‐scale genetic patterns for foxsnakes. At finer geographical scales, our results point to more recent anthropogenic habitat loss as having accentuated genetic population structure by causing further declines and fragmentation.
Likelihood ratio tests for the structural change of an AR(p) model to a Threshold AR(p) model
Authors: Zhu Ke , Ling Shiqing
Published: August 2011

This article considers the likelihood ratio (LR) test for the structural change of an AR model to a threshold AR model. Under the null hypothesis, it is shown that the LR test converges weakly to the maxima of a two‐parameter vector Gaussian process. Using the approach in Chan and Tong (1990)and Chan (1991), we obtain a parameter‐free limiting distribution when the errors are normal. This distribution is novel and its percentage points are tabulated via a Monte Carlo method. Simulation studies are carried out to assess the performance of the LR test in the finite sample and a real example is given.
The autodependogram: a graphical device to investigate serial dependences
Authors: Bagnato Luca , Punzo Antonio , Nicolis Orietta
Published: August 2011

In this article the serial dependences between the observed time series and the lagged series, taken into account one‐by‐one, are graphically analysed by what we have chosen to call the ‘autodependogram’. This tool is a sort of natural nonlinear counterpart of the well‐known autocorrelogram used in the linear context. The autodependogram is based on the simple idea of using, instead of autocorrelations at varying time lags, the χ2‐test statistics applied to convenient contingency tables. The efficacy of this graphical device is confirmed by real and artificial time series and by simulations from certain classes of well‐known models, characterized by randomness and by different kinds of linear and nonlinear dependences.