bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isotropic angle-domain elastic reverse-time migration
Authors: Yan Jia , Sava Paul
Published: November 2008

Multicomponent data usually are not processed with specifically designed procedures but with procedures analogous to those used for single-component data. In isotropic media, the vertical and horizontal components of the data commonly are taken as proxies for the P- and S-wave modes, which are imaged independently with the acoustic wave equations. This procedure works only if the vertical and horizontal components accurately represent P- and S-wave modes, which generally is not true. Therefore, multicomponent images constructed with this procedure exhibit artifacts caused by incorrect wave-mode separation at the surface. An alternative procedure for elastic imaging uses the full vector fields for wavefield reconstruction and imaging. The wavefields are reconstructed using the multicomponent data as a boundary condition for a numerical solution to the elastic wave equation. The key component for wavefield migration is the imaging condition, which evaluates the match between wave-fields reconstructed from sources and receivers. For vector wave fields, a simple component-by-component crosscorrelation between two wavefields leads to artifacts caused by crosstalk between the unseparated wave modes. We can separate elastic wavefields after reconstruction in the subsurface and implement the imaging condition as crosscorrelation of pure wave modes instead of the Cartesian components of the displacement wavefield. This approach leads to images that are easier to interpret because they describe reflectivity of specified wave modes at interfaces of physical properties. As for imaging with acoustic wavefields, the elastic imaging condition can be formulated conventionally (crosscorrelation with zero lag in space and time) and extended to nonzero space and time lags. The elastic images produced by an extended imaging condition can be used for angle decomposition of primary (PP or SS) and converted (PS or SP) reflectivity. Angle gathers constructed with this procedure have applications for migration velocity analysis and amplitude-variation-with-angle analysis.
Cardiovascular risk of rosiglitazone: another perspective
Authors: Waksman Javier C
Published: November 2008

Rosiglitazone is an effective therapy for type 2 diabetes although concerns have grown about the incidence of oedema and cardiovascular adverse events in patients treated with the drug. The following review was conducted to evaluate further and complement the evidence linking rosiglitazone with an increased risk for cardiovascular adverse events by examining trials and case reports not included in recent meta-analyses. Rosiglitazone-related publications describing case reports and prospective and retrospective cohort analyses were identified using MEDLINE and EMBASE, from July 1999 to July 2007. Relevant reports cited in these publications were also obtained. A recently-published meta-analysis and a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial were also reviewed. This review of 20 case reports and 10 uncontrolled studies supports the need for added vigilance when prescribing rosiglitazone to patients for the treatment of type 2 diabetes who may be at risk for congestive heart failure. Clinical data from numerous case reports and uncontrolled studies suggested that patients receiving rosiglitazone should be monitored for the development of weight gain or oedema. Prudence should be observed in patients with a history or risk factors for congestive heart failure as they may be poor candidates for rosiglitazone therapy.
Development of Chemical Stimuli-responsive Organogel Using Boronate Ester-substituted Cyclotricatechylene
Authors: Kubo Yuji , Yoshizumi Wataru , Minami Tsuyoshi
Published: November 2008

This study describes the synthesis of a new compound: boronate ester-substituted cyclotricatechylene 1. The structure-directing property of the boronic acid–diol interactions is responsible for the shuttlecock-shaped structure of 1, which led to the gelation of several solvents. The distribution control of trigonal and tetrahedral boronate esters allows phase transition via chemical stimulus.
Nanostructured anode materials for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Zhao Nahong , Fu Lijun , Yang Lichun , Zhang Tao , Wang Gaojun , Wu Yuping , van Ree Teunis
Published: November 2008

This paper focuses on the latest progress in the preparation of a series of nanostructured anode materials in our laboratory and their electrochemical properties for Li-ion batteries. These anode materials include core-shell structured Si nanocomposites, TiO2 nanocomposites, novel MoO2 anode material, and carbon nanotube (CNT)-coated SnO2 nanowires (NWs). The substantial advantages of these nanostructured anodes provide greatly improved electrochemical performance including high capacity, better cycling behavior, and rate capability.
Cellular responses to novel, micropatterned biomaterials
Authors: Lensen Marga C. , Schulte Vera A. , Salber Jochen , Diez Mar , Menges Fabian , Möller Martin
Published: November 2008

Two UV-curable polymers, i.e., a star-shaped poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and a linear perfluorinated polyether (PFPE), are investigated as novel biomaterials in a systematic study of the cellular responses to surface chemistry, topography, and elasticity. Based on the wettability it was expected that the two novel biomaterials were too hydrophilic or -phobic, respectively, to support cell adhesion. Indeed, no cell adhesion was observed on the smooth, unstructured elastomers, whereas the materials showed no cytotoxicity. However, when the materials bear defined, topographic patterns (prepared by UV-based imprinting), cells do react strongly to the surfaces; they adhere, spread, and change their shape depending on the geometry of the features. Typically, cells were found to align along line patterns and "float" on pillar structures. It should be noted that the chemistry of the surface is not altered by the imprinting process, hence, there are no biofunctional molecules present at the surface to aid the cell adhesion. Finally, a remarkable effect of elasticity on the cellular behavior was discovered. Thus, the three parameters of chemistry, topography, and elasticity were investigated in- and interdependently, and it was found that the biomaterials may lose their resistance to protein adsorption and cell adhesion depending on the surface topography.
B-site substituted lanthanum strontium ferrites as electrode materials for electrochemical applications
Authors: Vogt Ulrich F. , Sfeir Josef , Richter Joerg , Soltmann Christian , Holtappels Peter
Published: November 2008

For electrochemical systems such as solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) or solid oxide electrolyzer cells (SOECs), perovskites are widely used as cathode material for the reduction of molecular oxygen. At present, strontium-substituted lanthanum manganite, La1-x
Sr
x
MnO3-δ (LSM), is used as standard SOFC cathode material for operation at high temperatures, whereas strontium-substituted lanthanum ferrite (LSF) is alternatively explored for medium-temperature SOFCs. Moreover, LSF is considered to be a potential candidate for oxygen separation membranes as the material reported interesting electrical properties. The design of new perovskite-type La transition-metal oxides is of significant technological importance in order to reduce the operating temperature to 600-800 °C and thus to reduce the SOFC system cost. For investigations on a new material class, (La1-x
Sr
x
)
y
Fe1-z
(Ni,Cu)
z
O3-δ was synthesized by a spray-pyrolysis process and modified on the A-site in both stoichiometric and non-stoichiometric configurations and on the B-site by substituting Fe with Ni and Cu.
Research on a gel polymer electrolyte for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Li Guangchao , Li Zhaohui , Zhang Peng , Zhang Hanping , Wu Yuping
Published: November 2008

The preparation, physical, and electrochemical properties of Li-ion conducting membranes, poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) [P(VDF-HFP)]-based gel polymer electrolytes, are briefly reviewed in this paper. Phase separation or inversion method is mostly used to prepare microporous membranes because of the flexibility of its operation and controllable pore structure. The crystallinity of the polymer matrix and the pore structure of the membrane are the key issues to prepare P(VDF-HFP)-based gel polymer electrolytes with high Li+ conductivity and good mechanical strength. As to their further directions, they are also discussed.
Global Brand Purchase Likelihood: A Critical Synthesis and an Integrated Conceptual Framework
Authors: Özsomer Ayşegül , Altaras Selin
Published: November 2008

The authors build a model of global brand attitude and purchase likelihood with a nomological net comprised of constructs derived from three theoretical streams in consumer behavior: consumer culture theory, signaling theory, and the associative network memory model. By integrating these diverse theories, the authors provide a conceptual framework, explaining the processes leading to consumers’ attitudes toward and likelihood of purchasing global brands. Global brand authenticity, cultural capital, and perceived brand globalness are constructs based mainly on consumer culture theory, and global brand credibility is borrowed from signaling theory. Global brand quality, social responsibility, prestige, and relative price are included as brand associations, deriving mainly from the associative network memory model. These constructs have direct and indirect effects on global brand attitude and global brand purchase likelihood, reflecting the three-dimensional belief–attitude–behavior model in consumer behavior. The authors also introduce self-construal and cosmopolitanism as two pertinent moderators of some of the model paths.
Strengthening Customer Loyalty through Intimacy and Passion: Roles of Customer–Firm Affection and Customer–Staff Relationships in Services
Authors: Yim Chi Kin (Bennett) , Tse David K. , Chan Kimmy Wa
Published: November 2008

This study extends the existing satisfaction–trust–loyalty paradigm to investigate how customers’ affectionate ties with firms (customer–firm affection)—in particular, the components of intimacy and passion—affect customer loyalty in services. In a bilevel model, the authors consider customer–staff and customer–firm interactions in parallel. Through a netnography study and survey research in two service contexts, they confirm (1) the salience of intimacy and passion as two underrecognized components of customer–firm affection that influence customer loyalty, (2) the complementary and mediating role of customer–firm affection in strengthening customer loyalty, (3) significant affect transfers from the customer–staff to the customer–firm level, and (4) the dilemma that emerges when customer–staff relationships are too close. The findings provide several implications for researchers and managers regarding how intimacy and passion can enrich customer service interactions and how to manage customer–staff relationships properly.
Changes in wood-water relationship due to heat treatment assessed on micro-samples of three Eucalyptus species
Authors: Almeida Giana , Brito José Otávio , Perré Patrick
Published: November 2008

Wood-water relationship of untreated and heat-treated wood was studied. Specimens of Eucalyptus
grandis, E. saligna, and E. citriodora were submitted to five conditions of heat treatment: 180°C and 220°C with air; 220°C, 250°C, and 280°C with N2. The wood-water relationships were accurately studied in a special device, in which the moisture content (MC) of the sample was measured with a highly sensitive electronic microbalance placed in a climatic chamber. The dimensions of the sample were collected continuously without contact by means of two high-speed laser scan micrometers. Sorption curves and shrinkage-MC relationships were observed. To study the effects of heat treatment, the following parameters were also determined: fiber saturation point (FPS), wood anisotropy (T/R ratio), shrinkage slope, reduction in hygroscopicity, and anti-shrink efficiency (ASE). The physical properties were significantly affected only at 220°C and above. At heat temperature levels higher than 220°C, the reduction in hygroscopicity and ASE are higher than 40% and continue to be reduced with increasing temperature level. This work also demonstrates that heat treatment does not change the slope of the curves “shrinkage vs. MC”, proving that heat treatment affects the domain of alterations in wood properties, but not the behavior within this domain.
Biology of Thrypticus truncatus and Thrypticus sagittatus (Diptera: Dolichopodidae), Petiole Miners of Water Hyacinth, in Argentina, with Morphological Descriptions of Larvae and Pupae
Authors: Hernández M Cristina
Published: November 2008

The mining flies Thrypticus truncatus Bickel & Hernández and Thrypticus sagittatus Bickel & Hernández (Diptera: Dolichopodidae) are being evaluated as biological control agents for the water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (Martius) Solms-Laubach (Pontederiaceae). The behavior of adults and larvae of these species was studied in the laboratory and in several water courses of the Paraná River basin, Argentina. The larvae feed on sap from feeding points scraped in the vascular bundles in the petioles of E. crassipes. Pupation occurs in a chamber dug near one of the mine’s openings. External morphology of larvae and pupae, larval cephalic skeleton, and tracheal system are described. The pupae of both species have the ventrally flattened profile of the Medeterinae, with a transverse serrate ridge divided by a notch at the apex of the head. The mines, described herein in detail, constitute the microhabitat where the larvae live throughout their development, and obtain food and protection. Both species are active and reproduce on water hyacinth from spring to the end of fall, and overwinter as larvae inside the mines in the petioles. No morphological or behavioral differences were evident between the immature stages of these species, except in the apical ridges of the pupae. Both species seem to occupy the same niche on the plants.
Species Diversity of Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Louisiana
Authors: Dash Shawn T , Hooper-Bùi Linda M
Published: November 2008

More than four decades have passed since the completion of the checklist by Moser and Blum (1960) of the ants of Louisiana. This research represents a significant contribution to and an update of their work. This report is the first-ever comprehensive assessment of the formicid fauna of Louisiana. One hundred thirty-two species from 40 genera and nine subfamilies were found. Information on how Louisiana ant fauna compares to that of adjacent states and Nearctic fauna are provided. Interesting results include the identity of exotic and pestiferous species, missing species, species lost, and previously unreported species.
Effect of Brood Type on Varroa-Sensitive Hygiene by Worker Honey Bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae)
Authors: Harris Jeffrey W
Published: November 2008

Honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) (Hymenoptera: Apidae) have been selectively bred for varroa-sensitive hygiene (VSH), which is the removal of pupae that are infested by Varroa destructor Anderson & Trueman from capped brood cells. This hygienic behavior is a complex interaction of bees and brood in which brood cells are inspected, and then brood is either removed or recapped. Previous work has shown that VSH bees uncap and remove significantly more varroa-infested worker pupae than nonhygienic bees do, but nothing is known about the reactions of VSH bees to mite-infested drone brood. This study compared the reactions of VSH bees with mite-infested worker and drone brood in a laboratory test and a field test. VSH bees inspected brood cells containing mite-infested pupae of both types of brood, but they removed significantly fewer mite-infested drone pupae than mite-infested worker pupae after 1 wk. This result suggests that mite populations in VSH colonies could increase more rapidly when drone brood is available. Additionally, the percentages of uncapped pupae and uncapped mite-infested pupae were positively correlated to the natural infestation rate of brood after a 24-h exposure, but not after an exposure of 1 wk. This result suggests that the rate of uncapping brood by hygienic bees may depend on the infestation rate, which gradually decreases with longer exposures to bees that remove mite-infested pupae from capped brood.
Untangling the Interplay Among Navigational Strategies Used by the Ant Formica podzolica
Authors: Dias Caroline Marie , Breed Michael D
Published: November 2008

Ants use a variety of navigational mechanisms in homing, including pheromone trails, landmarks, compasses, and visual “snapshots” of the landscape. In many cases, an ant has more than one of these information types available and may give priority to one mechanism over the others. We investigated how the ant Formica podzolica Francoeur makes use of polarized light during the initial stages of homing. When ants were displaced to an unfamiliar area, they spent significantly more time in the 90° arc centered on their perception of the direction to the nest. This preference was eliminated by modifying the ants’ view of the sky with a polarizing filter, suggesting that F. podzolica use polarized light information. However, the displacements also showed that the ants make use of nest-specific information (possibly landmarks or snapshot matching) to recalibrate their homeward paths. When confronted with incompatible orientation information from polarized light in the sky and landmarks, the ant seems to reorient using landmarks, overriding the information from polarized light.
Ceratophysella richardi sp. n. (Collembola: Hypogastruridae) from USA, with Synonymization of the Genus Mitchellania with Ceratophysella
Authors: Skarżyński Dariusz , Christiansen Kenneth
Published: November 2008

Ceratophysella richardi sp. n. is described from South Carolina, USA. Unusual characteristics of a new species (post antennal organ with posterior lobes not surrounding accessory boss, macrochaetae p2 on thoracic terga II-III set nearly in line with setae p1, setae m2 on thoracic tergum II sometimes present, setae p1 and p2 on abdominal tergum IV microchaetae and macrochaetae, respectively, and all body sensilla long) are intermediate between two genera and led the authors to synonymize MitchellaniaWray, 1953 with CeratophysellaBörner, 1932.
Overcoming Immunologic Tolerance to Melanoma: Targeting CTLA-4 with Tremelimumab (CP-675,206)
Authors: Ribas Antoni
Published: November 2008

Cytotoxic T lymphocyte–associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) blockade therapies have been evaluated in clinical trials and have shown promise as possible options for treating patients with cancer. One agent under investigation is tremelimumab (CP-675,206), a monoclonal antibody that has been demonstrated to be a safe and efficacious treatment in patients with malignant melanoma. Results of a phase I clinical trial suggested that a dose of 15 mg/kg of tremelimumab would be the maximum-tolerated dose, with the most common grade 3–4 toxicities being diarrhea and rash. Pharmacokinetic studies showed that the postinfusion plasma concentration and area under the plasma disposition curve both increased in an approximately proportional manner with dose. Studies also showed that tremelimumab has a low clearance (0.132 ml/h·kg), a small volume of distribution (81.2 ml/kg), and a long terminal-phase half-life (22.1 days). A pivotal phase II clinical trial assessing single-agent tremelimumab as second-line therapy in metastatic melanoma has completed accrual, with response rate as the primary endpoint. A pivotal phase III trial has also completed accrual; that study compared the overall survival of previously untreated patients receiving single-agent tremelimumab versus dacarbazine or temozolomide.
Effects of sand and process water pH on toluene diluted heavy oil in water emulsions in turbulent flow
Authors: Angle Chandra W. , Hamza Hassan A.
Published: November 2008

The presence of sand in heavy oil production is known to enhance oil recovery. Sand can also be detrimental depending on the properties of the sand–water interface. In this process, the water soluble material interacts with both sand and oil droplets and affects emulsion stability. The formation and stability of heavy oil‐in‐water emulsions during turbulent flow using batch process stirred‐tank mixing of oil, sand, and water were investigated at three pH. Size distributions were measured by laser diffraction. High‐speed video photomicrography was used to observe the process during mixing. Results showed that the presence of sand enhanced formation of stable, fine emulsion at basic pH 8.5. When the pH of the water was reduced below 6.5 both sand and droplets surface properties changed, the emulsions became less stable and coalescence was apparent. The sand grains acted as coalescers at low pH and enhanced breakage at high pH. © Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of Natural Resources, 2008 AIChE J, 2009
Physical maturation, life‐history classes and age estimates of free‐ranging western gorillas—insights from Mbeli Bai, Republic of Congo
Authors: Breuer Thomas , Hockemba Mireille Breuer‐Ndoundou , Olejniczak Claudia , Parnell Richard J. , Stokes Emma J.
Published: November 2008

Physical maturation and life‐history parameters are seen as evolutionary adaptations to different ecological and social conditions. Comparison of life‐history patterns of closely related species living in diverse environments helps to evaluate the validity of these assumptions but empirical data are lacking. The two gorilla species exhibit substantial differences in their environment, which allows investigation into the role of increased frugivory in shaping western gorilla life histories. We present behavioral and morphological data on western gorilla physical maturation and life‐history parameters from a 12.5‐year study at Mbeli Bai, a forest clearing in the Nouabalé‐Ndoki National Park in northern Congo. We assign photographs of known individuals to different life‐history classes and propose new age boundaries for life‐history classes in western gorillas, which can be used and tested at other western gorilla research sites. Our results show that western gorillas are weaned at a later age compared with mountain gorillas and indicate slower physical maturation of immatures. These findings support the risk‐aversion hypothesis for more frugivorous species. However, our methods need to be applied and tested with other gorilla populations. The slow life histories of western gorillas could have major consequences for social structure, mortality patterns and population growth rates that will affect recovery from population crashes of this critically endangered species. We emphasize that long‐term studies can provide crucial demographic and life‐history data that improve our understanding of life‐history evolution and adaptation and help to refine conservation strategies. Am. J. Primatol. 71:106–119, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
GPC observations of branching effects in anionic polymerization of methyl methacrylate: A preliminary study
Authors: Tsai Yuhsin , Wu Jyh‐Horng , Tsai Fuu‐Jen
Published: November 2008

The anionic polymerization of methyl methacrylate was performed in tetrahydrofuran (THF) at −78°C, using sec‐butyllithium/1,1‐diphenylethylene (DPE) as the initiation system. The effects of polymerization time and initiator concentration on the branching reaction were studied. High vacuum was used to prevent contamination during the polymerization. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) was used to characterize the branching effect qualitatively. Experimental results indicated that the monomer conversion reached more than 98% in a polymerization time of 10 min. The branching reaction occurred after high monomer conversion, resulting in a tail of high molecular weight in the GPC trace. This branching effect, observed by GPC, increased with polymerization time. Rapid termination was thus probably required immediately after all of the monomer was consumed in the preparation of a well‐defined PMMA without a high‐molecular‐weight tail in this diphenylbutylllithium/THF/−78°C system. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Kinetics and particle nucleation mechanism of St/BA/qBVPBr emulsifier‐free cationic emulsion polymerization
Authors: Zhang Jinzhi , Cheng Shiyuan , Lu Guohong , Chai Shigan
Published: November 2008

Stable functional cationic latices were prepared by emulsifier‐free emulsion copolymerization of styrene (St) and butyl‐acrylate (BA) with 1‐butyl‐4‐vinylpyridinium bromide (qBVPBr) as functional comonomer and azobis(isobutyramidine hydrochloride) (AIBA) as initiator at (70 ± 1)°C. The influences of the reaction temperature, the initiator concentration, and comonomer concentration on the polymerization conversion (x %), polymerization rate (Rp) of poly(St/BA/qBVPBr) emulsions were investigated. The results indicated that x % and Rp increase with increasing qBVPBr or AIBA concentration and temperature, and Rp can be expressed as Rp = Kp[AIBA]0.73[qBVPBr]0.08 (rAIBA = 0.9968; rqBVPBr = 0.9946, both rAIBA and rqBVPBr are linear correlation coefficient) and the apparent activation energy (Ea) is 47.89 kJ mol−1. In the absence of emulsifier condition, curves of Rp versus reaction time obeyed the typical behavior characterized by Intervals I, II, and III as similar conventional emulsion polymerization. The formation and growth of poly(St/BA/qBVPBr) latex particles has been studied at different reaction times. The results indicate that Np decrease gradually with time at the early polymerization stages and then reach a constant value after about 20% conversion, but Dp by photon correlation spectroscopy grow continuously as all polymerization proceed. Both the particle size distribution and molecular weight distribution curves are of bimodal size distribution and indicate the participation of at least two mechanisms of particle formation, namely, homogeneous nucleation in the aqueous phase and micellar nucleation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Thermodynamically controlled supramolecular polymerization of cytochrome b562
Authors: Kitagishi Hiroaki , Oohora Koji , Hayashi Takashi
Published: November 2008

A hemoprotein‐based supramolecular polymer that has a covalently linked heme moiety on the protein surface has been constructed based on interprotein heme–heme pocket interactions of the chemically modified apocytochrome b562 (1‐H63C). The thermodynamic properties of the polymer have been investigated by means of size exclusion chromatography, UV–vis spectroscopy, and circular dichroism spectroscopy. The results indicate that, as with other synthetic systems reported so far, the 1‐H63C hemoprotein assembly is thermodynamically controlled in aqueous solution: the degree of polymerization is dependent on the 1‐H63C concentration and is modulated by the addition of the end‐capping units, native heme, and/or apocytochrome b562 mutant (apoH63C). These properties suggest a potential use for the hemoprotein self‐assembly in preparation of stimuli‐responsive functional nanobiomaterials. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 91: 194–200, 2009.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
The Structure‐Controlling Solventless Synthesis and Optical Properties of Uniform Cu2S Nanodisks
Authors: Chen Yu‐Biao , Chen Ling , Wu Li‐Ming
Published: November 2008

Uniform Cu2S nanodisks have been synthesized from a well‐characterized layered copper thiolate precursor by structure‐controlling solventless thermolysis at 200–220 °C under a N2 atmosphere. The development from small Cu2S nanoparticles (diameter ≈3 nm) to nanodisks (diameter 8.3 nm) and then to faceted nanodisks (diameter 27.5 nm, thickness 12.7 nm) is accompanied by a continuous phase transition from metastable orthorhombic to monoclinic Cu2S, the ripening of small particles by aggregation, and finally the crystallization process. The growth of the nanoproduct is constrained by the crystal structure of the precursor and the in situ‐generated thiol molecules. Such controlled anisotropic growth leads to a nearly constant thickness of faceted nanodisks with different diameters, which has been confirmed by TEM observations and optical absorption measurements.
Regularity of the free boundary of an American option on several assets
Authors: Laurence Peter , Salsa Sandro
Published: November 2008

We establish the C∞ regularity of the free boundary for an American option on several assets in the case where the payoff is convex and the assets follow correlated geometric Brownian motions. Our work builds on results concerning the qualitative properties and initial regularity of the free boundary by Broadie and Detemple; Jaillet, Lamberton, and Lapeyre; and Villeneuve. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A system for Web browsing by eye‐gaze input
Authors: Abe Kiyohiko , Owada Kosuke , Ohi Shoichi , Ohyama Minoru
Published: November 2008

We have developed an eye‐gaze input system for people with severe physical disabilities, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. This system utilizes a personal computer and a home video camera to detect eye‐gaze under natural light. The system detects both vertical and horizontal eye‐gaze by simple image analysis, and does not require special image processing units or sensors. We also developed the platform for eye‐gaze input based on our system.

In this paper, we propose a new Web browsing system for physically disabled computer users as an application of the platform for eye‐gaze input. The proposed Web browsing system uses a method of direct indicator selection. The method categorizes indicators by their function. These indicators are hierarchized relations; users can select the felicitous function by switching indicators group. This system also analyzes the location of selectable objects on Web pages, such as hyperlink, radio button, edit box, etc. This system stores the locations of these objects, in other words, the mouse cursor skips to the object of candidate input. Therefore, it enables Web browsing at a faster pace. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 91(5): 11– 18, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10110
Magnetostrictive properties of Tb‐Fe and Tb‐Fe‐Co films
Authors: Kiyomiya Teruo , Yamada Yoji , Matsuo Yoshio , Wakiwaka Hiroyuki , Torii Yohei , Makimura Mika
Published: November 2008

We studied Tb‐Fe‐Co giant magnetostrictive thin films and researched sputtering conditions to improve their magnetostrictive properties and investigated the possibility of their practical use. The sputtering Ar gas pressure influenced their inner stress and played a very important role for the determination of the magnetic easy axis. The largest magnetostriction was obtained when the Ar gas pressure was set at 0.7 Pa and the inner stress was controlled at a tensile stress of about 50 MPa. In the Tb‐Fe system, the Curie temperature is very low (about 140°C) compared with bulk materials, but the Curie temperature can be improved with increasing Co ratio. For films over 70% Co ratio, the Curie temperature was more than 250°C and the largest magnetostriction (1508 ppm) was obtained at 80.1% Co ratio. For almost all Tb‐Fe‐Co thin films, the values of magnetostriction were very high (over 1000 ppm), and the coercive forces were low (around 8 kA/m). Therefore, the Tb‐Fe‐Co giant magnetostrictive thin films are very appropriate materials for the applications in micro‐actuators and sensors. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 91(5): 49– 55, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10115
Rate‐Redox‐Controlled Size‐Selective Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Polyoxometalates
Authors: Troupis Aristidis , Triantis Theodoros , Hiskia Anastasia , Papaconstantinou Elias
Published: November 2008

Uniform silver nanoparticles were obtained upon the reduction of silver ions by reduced polyoxometalates (POMs) by simple mixing at room temperature. Control of the size and the dispersity of silver nanoparticles was achieved by rate control. Faster reduction of Ag+ led to smaller and more uniform silver nanoparticles, suggesting that the rate of Ag+ reduction strongly affects the initial nucleation of silver particles. A faster rate is achieved by either (i) increasing the concentration of the reducing reagent (reduced POM) or, more interestingly (ii) selecting POMs having appropriate (more negative) redox potentials: different POMs with increasing negative reduction potential or the same POM with more electrons accumulated on it. The rates of Ag+ reduction parallel the more negative reduction potential for POMs according to the series H2W12O407– > SiW12O405– > P2W18O628– > P2W18O627– > P2Mo18O6210– > P2Mo18O628– = 0. This precise redox‐control is summarized in a log k (E0) electrochemical‐like behavior, in alliance to a “soluble cathode” behavior of POMs, which leads to more uniform particles than those obtained with conventional electrochemistry. Alternatively, the concentration of silver ions influences the size of the particles obtained: increasing the amount of Ag+ leads to larger nanoparticles.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Isoflavone consumption and subsequent risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in a population‐based prospective cohort of Japanese men and women
Authors: Kurahashi Norie , Inoue Manami , Iwasaki Motoki , Tanaka Yasuhito , Mizokami Masashi , Tsugane Shoichiro ,   for the JPHC Study Group
Published: November 2008

The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is much higher in men than in women. Several experiment and epidemiological studies have suggested that estrogen might play an inhibitory role in the development of HCC. Because isoflavones have a similar structure as 17β‐estradiol and appear to have an anti‐estrogenic effect in women and estrogenic effect in men, we hypothesized that the effect of isoflavones on HCC differs by sex. We investigated the association between isoflavones (genistein and daidzein) and soy products and HCC in Japan in a population‐based prospective study in 19,998 Japanese (7,215 men and 12,783 women) aged 40–69 years. During 11.8 years of follow‐up, 101 subjects (69 men and 32 women) were newly diagnosed with HCC. Case patients were grouped according to consumption of isoflavones and soy products and stratified by hepatitis virus infection. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for HCC were calculated by Cox proportional‐hazards modeling. In women, genistein and daidzein were dose‐dependently associated with an increased risk of HCC, with multivariable HRs for the highest versus lowest tertile of 3.19 (95%CI = 1.13–9.00, ptrend = 0.03) and 3.90 (95% CI = 1.30–11.69, ptrend = 0.01), respectively. No association between isoflavones and HCC was observed in men. These results persisted when analysis was restricted to subjects positive for either or both hepatitis C and B virus. In conclusion, isoflavone consumption may be associated with an increased risk of HCC in women. Women with hepatitis virus infection may be advised to abstain from isoflavone consumption. Further studies are warranted to confirm these findings. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Using enrichment index for quality control of secretory protein sample and identification of secretory proteins
Authors: Chen Yong , Gu Bei , Wu Shuzhen , Sun Wei , Ma Sucan , Liu Yuqin , Gao Youhe
Published: November 2008

Analysis of secretory proteins is an important area in proteomic research. We propose that a good secretory protein sample should be enriched with known secretory proteins, and a secretory protein should be enriched in the secretory protein sample compared with its corresponding soluble cell lysate. Positive identifications of proteins were subjected to quantitation of spectral counts, which reflect relative protein abundance. Enrichment index of the sample (EIS) and the enrichment index for protein (EIP) were obtained by comparing proteins identified in the secretory protein sample and those in the soluble cell lysate sample. The quality of the secretory protein sample can be represented by EIS. EIP was used to identify the secretory proteins.

The secretory proteins from mouse dendritic cell sarcoma (DCS) were analyzed by MS. The EISs of two samples were 75.4 and 84.65, respectively. 72 proteins were significantly enriched in secretory protein samples, of which 42 proteins were either annotated in Swiss‐Prot and/or predicted by signal peptides to be secretory. In the remaining 30 proteins, 12 and 15 proteins were positively predicted by SecretomeP and ProP, respectively, and 5 proteins were positive by both methods. Furthermore, 11 proteins were found to be present in exosome in other studies that involved mice dendritic cell lines. We suggest that this assessment method is helpful for systemic research of secretory proteins and biomarker discovery for diseases such as cancer. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ab initio quantum‐mechanical simulation of the Raman spectrum of grossular
Authors: Dovesi R. , Valenzano L. , Pascale F. , Zicovich‐Wilson C. M. , Orlando R.
Published: November 2008

The Raman spectrum of the grossular garnet Ca3Al2Si3O12 has been simulated with the periodic ab initio CRYSTAL code by adopting an all‐electron Gaussian‐type basis set and the B3LYP Hamiltonian. The wavenumbers of the 25 Raman active modes (3 of A1g, 8 of Eg and 14 of F2g symmetry) are in excellent agreement with two sets of accurate experimental data. Isotopic substitution is used to measure the participation of Ca and Si (Al is constrained in a centro‐symmetric position) to the various modes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vibrational properties of ibuprofen–cyclodextrin inclusion complexes investigated by Raman scattering and numerical simulation
Authors: Rossi Barbara , Verrocchio Paolo , Viliani Gabriele , Mancini Ines , Guella Graziano , Rigo Eveline , Scarduelli Giorgina , Mariotto Gino
Published: November 2008

The modifications to the vibrational spectra produced by inclusion into cyclodextrins on the vibrational spectra of of the non‐steroidal anti–inflammatory drug ibuprofen, by inclusion into cyclodextrins have been investigated by means of Raman scattering and numerical simulation. These changes are discussed and explained by comparison with the theoretical vibrational wavenumbersfrequencies and Raman intensities obtained by quantum and classical numerical simulations, disentangling the effects directly related to the complexation process, from those to be ascribed to non‐covalent dimerization of ibuprofen due to hydrogen bonding. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Corrosion aspects of metallic implants — An overview
Authors: Balamurugan A. , Rajeswari S. , Balossier G. , Rebelo A. H. S. , Ferreira J. M. F.
Published: November 2008

The ability to replace or augment diseased body parts totally or partially has improved both the quality and life span of human population. The decline in surgical risks during recent decades has encouraged the development of more complex procedures for prosthetic implantation. Additionally, a variety of extracorporeal devices, such as the heart, lung and blood dialysis machines are used routinely, but these prosthetic elements have several limitations. Hence, research projects are currently underway to overcome the limitations of synthetic materials by developing formulations with varying properties, such as asymptomatic, long‐term function in the human physiological environment, etc., to meet the needs of biomedical surgeons. This review focuses on the several biomaterials corrosion and its measures to prevent corrosion.
Nanoscale Cellular Foams from a Poly(propylene)‐Rubber Blend
Authors: Nemoto Tomoyuki , Takagi Jun , Ohshima Masahiro
Published: November 2008

Plastic foams with nano/micro‐scale cellular structures were prepared from poly(propylene)/thermoplastic polystyrene elastomer (PP/TPS) systems, specifically the copolymer blends PP/hydrogenated polystyrene‐block‐polybutadiene‐block‐polystyrene rubber and PP/hydrogenated polystyrene‐block‐polyisoprene‐block‐polystyrene. These PP/TPS systems have the unique characteristic that the elastomer domain can be highly dispersed and oriented in the machine direction by changing the draw‐down ratio in the extrusion process. A temperature‐quench batch physical foaming method was used to foam these two systems with CO2. The cell size and location were highly controlled in the dispersed elastomer domains by exploiting the differences in CO2 solubility, diffusivity, and viscoelasticity between the elastomer domains and the PP matrix. The average cell diameter of the PP/TPS blend foams was controlled to be 200–400 nm on the finest level by manipulating the PP/rubber ratio, the draw‐down ratio of extrusion and the foaming temperature. Furthermore, the cellular structure could be highly oriented in one direction by using the highly‐oriented elastomer domains in the polymer blend morphology as a template for foaming.

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Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) Biosynthesis from Whey Lactose
Authors: Koller Martin , Atlić Aid , Gonzalez‐Garcia Yolanda , Kutschera Christoph , Braunegg Gerhart
Published: November 2008

Summary: The potential of three different microbial wild type strains as polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) producers from whey lactose is compared. Homopolyester and co‐polyester biosynthesis was investigated by the archaeon Haloferax mediterranei and the eubacterial strains Pseudomonas hydrogenovora and Hydrogenophaga pseudoflava. H. mediterranei accumulated 50 wt.‐% of poly‐3‐(hydroxybutyrate‐co‐6%‐hydroxyvalerate) in cell dry mass from hydrolyzed whey without addition of 3‐hydroxyvalerate (3HV) precursors (specific productivity qp: 2.9 mg/g h). Using P. hydrogenovora, the final percentage of poly‐3‐hydroxybutyrate (PHB) amounted to 12 wt.‐% (qp: 0.03 g/g h); co‐feeding of valeric acid resulted in the production of 12 wt.‐%. P‐3(HB‐co‐21%‐HV) (qp: 0.02 g/g h). With H. pseudoflava, it was possible to reach 40 wt.‐% P‐3 (HB‐co‐5%‐HV) on not‐hydrolyzed whey lactose plus valeric acid as 3HV precursor (qp: 9.1 mg/g h); on hydrolyzed whey lactose without addition of valeric acid, the strain produced 30 wt.‐% of PHB (qp: 0.16 g/g h). The characterization of the isolated biopolyesters completes the study.
The Polarized Light‐Induced Enzymatic Formation and Degradation of Biopolymers
Authors: Konieczna‐Molenda Anna , Fiedorowicz Maciej , Tomasik Piotr
Published: November 2008

Summary: White, linearly polarized transformed starch amylopectin into amylose. Moreover, it activated α‐amylolysis of starch, hydrolysis of xylane with xylanase, hydrolyses of chitin with chitinase, chitosan with chitosanase, and, interestingly, influenced production of cyclodextrins with cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase. Effect of duration of illumination of cyclodextrin glucosyltransferase with polarized light had certain effect upon the yield and isomer ration of three isomeric cyclodextrins. Application of the polarized light required 1–2 hour illumination of the enzymes in a small reaction vessel followed by admixture of so activated enzymes to a bioreactor. Further reactions did not require any illumination.
Supramolecular Systems from Natural Polymers and Maleic Polyelectrolytes
Authors: Popescu Irina , Popa Marcel Ionel , Chitanu Gabrielle Charlotte
Published: November 2008

Summary: The formation of polyelectrolyte complexes by interaction between chitosan and maleic acid copolymers as strong/weak dibasic polyanions was investigated. The interaction between the sodium salt of maleic acid copolymers with styrene or vinyl acetate and the chitosan hydrochloride in aqueous solution was followed by potentiometric, conductometric and turbidimetric titration. The effect of the added low molecular salt on the complex formation was also investigated. The precipitated complexes were analyzed by FTIR spectroscopy and TG analysis. Preliminary layer‐by‐layer deposition experiments were performed to obtain thin films.
Assessing the diurnal evolution of surface radiation balance over the western region of Tropical Atlantic Ocean using in situ measurements carried out during the FluTuA Project
Authors: Bacellar Sarasvati , Oliveira Amauri P. , Soares Jacyra , Servain Jacques
Published: November 2008

In this work, the diurnal evolution of the radiation balance components over the tropical Atlantic Ocean is described and analysed. The analysis is based on measurements carried out on board a Brazilian Navy ship during the observational campaign of the FluTuA Project (‘Fluxos Turbulentos sobre o Atlântico’), from 15 to 23 May 2002. The observations indicated that the albedo responds as expected to atmospheric attenuation effects with a diurnal evolution similar to the Fresnel albedo. In general, the observed longwave radiation values agreed better with the estimated values obtained without longwave reflection. In agreement with the literature, the average surface emissivity was around 0.97. The net radiation, estimated from published equations for albedo, atmospheric transmissivity and surface emissivity, agreed with the observations, indicating that these parameters are representative of the radiometric properties of the air‐sea interface in the region between Natal (6°S, 35.2°W) and the São Pedro and São Paulo Archipelago (1°N, 29.3°W). Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
An efficient finite element method for embedded interface problems
Authors: Dolbow John , Harari Isaac
Published: November 2008

A stabilized finite element method based on the Nitsche technique for enforcing constraints leads to an efficient computational procedure for embedded interface problems. We consider cases in which the jump of a field across the interface is given, as well as cases in which the primary field on the interface is given. The finite element mesh need not be aligned with the interface geometry. We present closed‐form analytical expressions for interfacial stabilization terms and simple procedures for accurate flux evaluations. Representative numerical examples demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Non‐convex dynamic dispatch of generators with prohibited operating zones
Authors: Yuan Xiaohui , Su Anjun , Yuan Yanbin , Nie Hao , Wang Liang
Published: November 2008

Dynamic economic load dispatch (DELD), which plays an important role in power systems operation, is cast as a complex non‐linear constrained optimization problem. It has non‐smooth and non‐convex characteristic when generation unit valve‐point effects and prohibited operating zones are taken into account. The operating region of the units having prohibited zones is broken into isolated feasible sub‐regions, which results in multiple decision spaces for the DELD problem. This paper proposes an enhanced particle swarm optimization (EPSO) method to solve the DELD problem of units with valve‐point effects and prohibited operating zones. In the proposed EPSO method, feasibility‐based rules and heuristic search strategies with priority list based on probability are devised to handle complex constraints effectively. Furthermore, the effects of three crucial parameters on the performance of the EPSO for DELD problem are studied as well. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method are demonstrated for three examples and the test results are compared with those of other methods reported in the literature. It is shown that the proposed method is capable of yielding higher‐quality solutions. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.