bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Voltammetric Detection of Urea on an Ag-Modified Zeolite-Expanded Graphite-Epoxy Composite Electrode
Authors: Manea Florica , Pop Aniela , Radovan Ciprian , Malchev Plamen , Bebeselea Adriana , Burtica Georgeta , Picken Stephen , Schoonman Joop
Published: October 2008

In this paper, a modified expanded graphite composite electrode based on natural zeolitic volcanic tuff modified with silver (EG-Ag-Z-Epoxy) was developed. Cyclic voltammetry measurements revealed a reasonably fast electron transfer and a good stability of the electrode in 0.1 M NaOH supporting electrolyte. This modified electrode exhibited moderate electrocatalytic effect towards urea oxidation, allowing its determination in aqueous solution. The linear dependence of the current versus urea concentration was reached using square-wave voltammetry in the concentrations range of urea between 0.2 to 1.4 mM, with a relatively low limit of detection of 0.05 mM. A moderate enhancement of electroanalytical sensitivity for the determination of urea at EG-Ag-Z-Epoxy electrode was reached by applying a chemical preconcentration step prior to voltammetric/amperometric quantification.
A Voltammetric Biosensor Based on Glassy Carbon Electrodes Modified with Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes/Hemoglobin for Detection of Acrylamide in Water Extracts from Potato Crisps
Authors: Krajewska Agnieszka , Radecki Jerzy , Radecka Hanna
Published: October 2008

The presence of toxic acrylamide in a wide range of food products such as potato crisps, French fries or bread has been confirmed by Swedish scientists from Stockholm University. The neurotoxicity, possible carcinogenicity of this compound and its metabolites compels us to control them by quantitative and qualitative assays. Acrylamide forms adduct with hemoglobin (Hb) as a result of the reaction the -NH2 group of the Nterminal valine with acrylamide. In this work we present the use of glassy carbon electrodes coated with single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and Hb for voltammetric detection of acrylamide in water solutions. The electrodes presented a very low detection limit (1.0×10-9 M). The validation made in the matrix obtained by water extraction of potato crisps showed that the electrodes presented are suitable for the direct determination of acrylamide in food samples.
Fabrication of Pillar Shaped Electrode Arrays for Artificial Retinal Implants
Authors: Kim Eui Tae , Seo Jong-Mo , Woo Se Joon , Zhou Jing Ai , Chung Hum , Kim Sung June
Published: October 2008

Polyimide has been widely applied to neural prosthetic devices, such as the retinal implants, due to its well-known biocompatibility and ability to be micropatterned. However, planar films of polyimide that are typically employed show a limited ability in reducing the distance between electrodes and targeting cell layers, which limits site resolution for effective multi-channel stimulation. In this paper, we report a newly designed device with a pillar structure that more effectively interfaces with the target. Electrode arrays were successfully fabricated and safely implanted inside the rabbit eye in suprachoroidal space. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) showed well-preserved pillar structures of the electrode without damage. Bipolar stimulation was applied through paired sites (6:1) and the neural responses were successfully recorded from several regions in the visual cortex. Electrically evoked cortical potential by the pillar electrode array stimulation were compared to visual evoked potential under full-field light stimulation.
Determination of the Content of Heavy Metals in Pyrite Contaminated Soil and Plants
Authors: Antonijević Milan M. , Marić Miroslava
Published: October 2008

Determination of a pyrite contaminated soil texture, content of heavy metals in the soil and soil pH, was the aim in the investigation. Acidification of damaged soil was corrected by calcium carbonate. Mineral nutrients and organic matter (NPK, dung, earthworm cast, straw and coal dust) were added to damaged soil. Afterwards, the soil was used for oat production. Determination of total heavy metal contents (Cu, Pb, Zn, Fe) in soil was performed by atomic absorption spectrofotometry. Plant material (stems, seeds ) was analysed, too. Total concentration of the heavy metals in the plant material were greater than in crop obtained in unaffected soil.
A New Approach for Structural Monitoring of Large Dams with a Three-Dimensional Laser Scanner
Authors: González-Aguilera Diego , Gómez-Lahoz Javier , Sánchez José
Published: October 2008

Driven by progress in sensor technology, computer methods and data processing capabilities, 3D laser scanning has found a wide range of new application fields in recent years. Particularly, monitoring the static and dynamic behaviour of large dams has always been a topic of great importance, due to the impact these structures have on the whole landscape where they are built. The main goal of this paper is to show the relevance and novelty of the laserscanning methodology developed, which incorporates different statistical and modelling approaches not considered until now. As a result, the methods proposed in this paper have provided the measurement and monitoring of the large “Las Cogotas” dam (Avila, Spain).
Tomographic Imaging of a Forested Area By Airborne Multi-Baseline P-Band SAR
Authors: Frey Othmar , Morsdorf Felix , Meier Erich
Published: October 2008

In recent years, various attempts have been undertaken to obtain information about the structure of forested areas from multi-baseline synthetic aperture radar data. Tomographic processing of such data has been demonstrated for airborne L-band data but the quality of the focused tomographic images is limited by several factors. In particular, the common Fourierbased focusing methods are susceptible to irregular and sparse sampling, two problems, that are unavoidable in case of multi-pass, multi-baseline SAR data acquired by an airborne system. In this paper, a tomographic focusing method based on the time-domain back-projection algorithm is proposed, which maintains the geometric relationship between the original sensor positions and the imaged target and is therefore able to cope with irregular sampling without introducing any approximations with respect to the geometry. The tomographic focusing quality is assessed by analysing the impulse response of simulated point targets and an in-scene corner reflector. And, in particular, several tomographic slices of a volume representing a forested area are given. The respective P-band tomographic data set consisting of eleven flight tracks has been acquired by the airborne E-SAR sensor of the German Aerospace Center (DLR).
Structural Simulation of a Bone-Prosthesis System of the Knee Joint
Authors: Andrä Heiko , Battiato Sebastiano , Bilotta Giuseppe , Farinella Giovanni q M. , Impoco Gaetano , Orlik Julia , Russo Giovanni , Zemitis Aivars
Published: October 2008

In surgical knee replacement, the damaged knee joint is replaced with artificial prostheses. An accurate clinical evaluation must be carried out before applying knee prostheses to ensure optimal outcome from surgical operations and to reduce the probability of having long-term problems. Useful information can be inferred from estimates of the stress acting onto the bone-prosthesis system of the knee joint. This information can be exploited to tailor the prosthesis to the patient’s anatomy. We present a compound system for pre-operative surgical planning based on structural simulation of the bone-prosthesis system, exploiting patient-specific data.
Influence of Fluid Cell Design on the Frequency Response of AFM Microcantilevers in Liquid Media
Authors: Motamedi Ramin , Wood-Adams Paula  M.
Published: October 2008

A study of the frequency response of AFM microcantilevers in liquid media contained in a commercial fluid cell is presented. Such systems exhibit complicated dynamics which are often not well described by available theories. Their dynamic behavior has a direct effect on the use of the AFM in dynamic mode while imaging in liquid or while extracting the rheological properties of the fluid. We explore the issues related to the design of the cantilever holder/fluid cell and propose an approach for evaluating, minimizing and recognizing the ultimate limitations of commercial cantilever holders. A technique for estimating the frequency response spectrum of the fluid cell itself from experimental data is presented. This spectrum can then be used to evaluate whether or not the fluid cell is suited for the desired purpose.
Color Changes of UHT Milk During Storage
Authors: Popov-Raljić Jovanka  V. , Lakić Nada  S. , Laličić-Petronijević Jovanka  G. , Barać Miroljub  B. , Sikimić Višnja  M.
Published: October 2008

In this study measurements of color parameters of UHT milk were performed, by using a MOM-color 100 photoelectric tristimulus colorimeter. Colors of UHT milk samples containing 3.2% and 1.6% milk fat, processed under industrial conditions, packed in polyethylene terephtalate (PET) based packages, and stored for 0, 15, 30, 45, 60 and 90 days at ambient temperature (20±5°C) were examined. Results are shown in four different systems that define measurement of color parameters expressed in: CIE, CIE L*a*b*, Hünter and ANLAB – Adams Nickerson systems. Average value of mean reflectance of UHT milk determined in CIE system statistically is highly significantly changed, (p < 0.01) depending on duration of storaging, percentage of milk fat, as well as on the interaction of the mentioned factors. For the UHT milk with 1.6% milk fat statistically significant (p < 0.05) decrease of psychometric chroma b* occurs after 60 days, and for milk with 3.2% milk fat established on 45th day of storage.
Integrated Evaluation of Urban Development Suitability Based on Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques – A Case Study in Jingjinji Area, China
Authors: Dong Jiang , Zhuang Dafang , Xu Xinliang , Ying Lei
Published: October 2008

Jingjinji area (namely Beijing, Tianjin and He Bei Province) is one of the three largest regional economic communities in China. Urban expansion has sped up in the past 20 years in this area due to the rapid economic and population growth. Evaluating the landuse suitability for urban growth on a regional scale is an urgent need, because the most suitable areas and the most suitable scale of urban growth can thus be determined accordingly. In order to meet this requirement, remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) techniques were adopted, and an integrated evaluating model was developed supported by AHP method. The integrated urban development suitability index (UDSI) was calculated using this model. According to the UDSI result, the spatial distribution of urban development suitability and its driving forces were analyzed. Urban boundaries in 1995, 2000 and 2005, which were derived from Landsat TM/ETM+ satellite data, were overlaid on the UDSI map, and the suitable urban develop tendency in this area were discussed. The result of this study indicated that integrated evaluation of urban development could be conducted in an operational way using remote sensing data, GIS spatial analysis technique and AHP modeling method.
Programming an Artificial Neural Network Tool for Spatial Interpolation in GIS - A Case Study for Indoor Radio Wave Propagation of WLAN
Authors: Sen Alper , Gümüsay M. Umit , Kavas Aktül , Bulucu Umut
Published: October 2008

Wireless communication networks offer subscribers the possibilities of free mobility and access to information anywhere at any time. Therefore, electromagnetic coverage calculations are important for wireless mobile communication systems, especially in Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). Before any propagation computation is performed, modeling of indoor radio wave propagation needs accurate geographical information in order to avoid the interruption of data transmissions. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial interpolation techniques are very efficient for performing indoor radio wave propagation modeling. This paper describes the spatial interpolation of electromagnetic field measurements using a feed-forward back-propagation neural network programmed as a tool in GIS. The accuracy of Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and geostatistical Kriging were compared by adjusting procedures. The feedforward back-propagation ANN provides adequate accuracy for spatial interpolation, but the predictions of Kriging interpolation are more accurate than the selected ANN. The proposed GIS ensures indoor radio wave propagation model and electromagnetic coverage, the number, position and transmitter power of access points and electromagnetic radiation level. Pollution analysis in a given propagation environment was done and it was demonstrated that WLAN (2.4 GHz) electromagnetic coverage does not lead to any electromagnetic pollution due to the low power levels used. Example interpolated electromagnetic field values for WLAN system in a building of Yildiz Technical University, Turkey, were generated using the selected network architectures to illustrate the results with an ANN.
Surface Heat Balance Analysis of Tainan City on March 6, 2001 Using ASTER and Formosat-2 Data
Authors: Kato Soushi , Yamaguchi Yasushi , Liu Cheng-Chien , Sun Chen-Yi
Published: October 2008

The urban heat island phenomenon occurs as a mixed result of anthropogenic heat discharge, decreased vegetation, and increased artificial impervious surfaces. To clarify the contribution of each factor to the urban heat island, it is necessary to evaluate the surface heat balance. Satellite remote sensing data of Tainan City, Taiwan, obtained from Terra ASTER and Formosat-2 were used to estimate surface heat balance in this study. ASTER data is suitable for analyzing heat balance because of the wide spectral range. We used Formosat-2 multispectral data to classify the land surface, which was used to interpolate some surface parameters for estimating heat fluxes. Because of the high spatial resolution of the Formosat-2 image, more roads, open spaces and small vegetation areas could be distinguished from buildings in urban areas; however, misclassifications of land cover in such areas using ASTER data would overestimate the sensible heat flux. On the other hand, the small vegetated areas detected from the Formosat-2 image slightly increased the estimation of latent heat flux. As a result, the storage heat flux derived from Formosat-2 is higher than that derived from ASTER data in most areas. From these results, we can conclude that the higher resolution land coverage map increases accuracy of the heat balance analysis. Storage heat flux occupies about 60 to 80% of the net radiation in most of the artificial surface areas in spite of their usages. Because of the homogeneity of the building roof materials, there is no contrast between the storage heat flux in business and residential areas. In sparsely vegetated urban areas, more heat is stored and latent heat is smaller than that in the forested suburbs. This result implies that density of vegetation has a significant influence in decreasing temperatures.
An Evaluation of Radarsat-1 and ASTER Data for Mapping Veredas (Palm Swamps)
Authors: Maillard Philippe , Alencar-Silva Thiago , Clausi David  A.
Published: October 2008

Veredas (palm swamps) are wetland complexes associated with the Brazilian savanna (cerrado) that often represent the only available source of water for the ecosystem during the dry months. Their extent and condition are mainly unknown and their cartography is an essential issue for their protection. This research article evaluates some of the fine resolution satellite data both in the radar (Radarsat-1) and optical domain (ASTER) for the delineation and characterization of veredas. Two separate approaches are evaluated. First, given the known potential of Radarsat-1 images for wetland inventories, the automatic delineation of veredas is tested using only Radarsat-1 data and a Markov random fields region-based segmentation. In this case, to increase performance, processing is limited to a buffer zone around the river network. Then, characterization of their type is attempted using traditional classification methods of ASTER optical data combined with Radarsat-1 data. The automatic classification of Radarsat data yielded results with an overall accuracy between 62 and 69%, that proved reliable enough for delineating wide and very humid veredas. Scenes from the wet season and with a smaller angle of incidence systematically yielded better results. For the classification of the main vegetation types, better results (overall success of 78.8%) were obtained by using only the visible and near infrared (VNIR) bands of the ASTER image. Radarsat data did not bring any improvement to these classification results. In fact, when using solely the Radarsat data from two different angle of incidence and two different dates, the classification results were low (50.8%) but remained powerful for delineating the permanently moist riparian forest portion of the veredas with an accuracy better than 75% in most cases. These results are considered good given the width of some types often less than 50 m wide compared with the resolution of the images (12.5 - 15 m). Comparing the classification results with the Radarsat-generated delineation allows an understanding of the relation between synthetic aperture radar (SAR) backscattering and vegetation types of the veredas.
BioMEMS –Advancing the Frontiers of Medicine
Authors: James Teena , Mannoor Manu Sebastian , Ivanov Dentcho V.
Published: October 2008

Biological and medical application of micro-electro-mechanical-systems (MEMS) is currently seen as an area of high potential impact. Integration of biology and microtechnology has resulted in the development of a number of platforms for improving biomedical and pharmaceutical technologies. This review provides a general overview of the applications and the opportunities presented by MEMS in medicine by classifying these platforms according to their applications in the medical field.
Spectral-Based Blind Image Restoration Method for Thin TOMBO Imagers
Authors: El-Sallam Amar  A. , Boussaid Farid
Published: October 2008

With the recent advances in microelectronic fabrication technology, it becomes now possible to fabricate thin imagers, less than half a millimeter thick. Dubbed TOMBO (an acronym for thin observation module by bound optics), a thin camera-on-a-chip integrates micro-optics and photo-sensing elements, together with advanced processing circuitry, all on a single silicon chip. Modeled after the compound-eye found in insects and many other arthropods, the TOMBO imager captures simultaneously a mosaic of low resolution images. In this paper, we describe and analyze a novel spectral-based blind algorithm that enables the restoration of a high resolution image from the captured low resolution images.The proposed blind restoration method does not require prior information about the imaging system nor the original scene. Furthermore, it alleviates the need for conventional de-shading and rearrangement processing techniques. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can restore images for SNER lower than 3dB.
Modelling Spatial and Temporal Forest Cover Change Patterns (1973-2020): A Case Study from South Western Ghats (India)
Authors: Giriraj Amarnath , Irfan-Ullah Mohammed , Murthy Manchi Sri Ramachandra , Beierkuhnlein Carl
Published: October 2008

This study used time series remote sensing data from 1973, 1990 and 2004 to assess spatial forest cover change patterns in the Kalakad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (KMTR), South Western Ghats (India). Analysis of forest cover changes and its causes are the most challenging areas of landscape ecology, especially due to the absence of temporal ground data and comparable space platform based data. Comparing remotely sensed data from three different sources with sensors having different spatial and spectral resolution presented a technical challenge. Quantitative change analysis over a long period provided a valuable insight into forest cover dynamics in this area. Time-series maps were combined within a geographical information system (GIS) with biotic and abiotic factors for modelling its future change. The land-cover change has been modelled using GEOMOD and predicted for year 2020 using the current disturbance scenario. Comparison of the forest change maps over the 31-year period shows that evergreen forest being degraded (16%) primarily in the form of selective logging and clear felling to raise plantations of coffee, tea and cardamom. The natural disturbances such as forest fire, wildlife grazing, invasions after clearance and soil erosion induced by anthropogenic pressure over the decades are the reasons of forest cover change in KMTR. The study demonstrates the role of remote sensing and GIS in monitoring of large-coverage of forest area continuously for a given region over time more precisely and in cost-effective manner which will be ideal for conservation planning and prioritization.
Two Improvements of an Operational Two-Layer Model for Terrestrial Surface Heat Flux Retrieval
Authors: Zhang Renhua , Tian Jing , Su Hongbo , Sun Xiaomin , Chen Shaohui , Xia Jun
Published: October 2008

In order to make the prediction of land surface heat fluxes more robust, two improvements were made to an operational two-layer model proposed previously by Zhang. These improvements are: 1) a surface energy balance method is used to determine the theoretical boundary lines (namely ‘true wet/cool edge’ and ‘true dry/warm edge’ in the trapezoid) in the scatter plot for the surface temperature versus the fractional vegetation cover in mixed pixels; 2) a new assumption that the slope of the Tm – f curves is mainly controlled by soil water content is introduced. The variables required by the improved method include near surface vapor pressure, air temperature, surface resistance, aerodynamic resistance, fractional vegetation cover, surface temperature and net radiation. The model predictions from the improved model were assessed in this study by in situ measurements, which show that the total latent heat flux from the soil and vegetation are in close agreement with the in situ measurement with an RMSE (Root Mean Square Error) ranging from 30 w/m2~50 w/m2,which is consistent with the site scale measurement of latent heat flux. Because soil evaporation and vegetation transpiration are not measured separately from the field site, in situ measured CO2 flux is used to examine the modeled λEveg. Similar trends of seasonal variations of vegetation were found for the canopy transpiration retrievals and in situ CO2 flux measurements. The above differences are mainly caused by 1) the scale disparity between the field measurement and the MODIS observation; 2) the non-closure problem of the surface energy balance from the surface fluxes observations themselves. The improved method was successfully used to predict the component surface heat fluxes from the soil and vegetation and it provides a promising approach to study the canopy transpiration and the soil evaporation quantitatively during the rapid growing season of winter wheat in northern China.
Analyzing Land Use/Land Cover Changes Using Remote Sensing and GIS in Rize, North-East Turkey
Authors: Reis Selçuk
Published: October 2008

Mapping land use/land cover (LULC) changes at regional scales is essential for a wide range of applications, including landslide, erosion, land planning, global warming etc. LULC alterations (based especially on human activities), negatively effect the patterns of climate, the patterns of natural hazard and socio-economic dynamics in global and local scale. In this study, LULC changes are investigated by using of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Rize, North-East Turkey. For this purpose, firstly supervised classification technique is applied to Landsat images acquired in 1976 and 2000. Image Classification of six reflective bands of two Landsat images is carried out by using maximum likelihood method with the aid of ground truth data obtained from aerial images dated 1973 and 2002. The second part focused on land use land cover changes by using change detection comparison (pixel by pixel). In third part of the study, the land cover changes are analyzed according to the topographic structure (slope and altitude) by using GIS functions. The results indicate that severe land cover changes have occurred in agricultural (36.2%) (especially in tea gardens), urban (117%), pasture (-72.8%) and forestry (-12.8%) areas has been experienced in the region between 1976 and 2000. It was seen that the LULC changes were mostly occurred in coastal areas and in areas having low slope values.
APEX - the Hyperspectral ESA Airborne Prism Experiment
Authors: Itten Klaus I. , Dell’Endice Francesco , Hueni Andreas , Kneubühler Mathias , Schläpfer Daniel , Odermatt Daniel , Seidel Felix , Huber Silvia , Schopfer Jürg , Kellenberger Tobias , Bühler Yves , D’Odorico Petra , Nieke Jens , Alberti Edoardo , Meuleman Koen
Published: October 2008

The airborne ESA-APEX (Airborne Prism Experiment) hyperspectral mission simulator is described with its distinct specifications to provide high quality remote sensing data. The concept of an automatic calibration, performed in the Calibration Home Base (CHB) by using the Control Test Master (CTM), the In-Flight Calibration facility (IFC), quality flagging (QF) and specific processing in a dedicated Processing and Archiving Facility (PAF), and vicarious calibration experiments are presented. A preview on major applications and the corresponding development efforts to provide scientific data products up to level 2/3 to the user is presented for limnology, vegetation, aerosols, general classification routines and rapid mapping tasks. BRDF (Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function) issues are discussed and the spectral database SPECCHIO (Spectral Input/Output) introduced. The optical performance as well as the dedicated software utilities make APEX a state-of-the-art hyperspectral sensor, capable of (a) satisfying the needs of several research communities and (b) helping the understanding of the Earth’s complex mechanisms.
Synthesis of a Novel Redox Material UDCaT‐3: An Efficient and Versatile Catalyst for Selective Oxidation, Hydroxylation and Hydrogenation Reactions
Authors: Yadav Ganapati D. , Manyar Haresh G.
Published: October 2008

A novel, highly efficient and versatile redox catalyst, named UDCaT‐3 (the acronym derived from University Department of Chemical Technology series catalyst # 3) was developed by synthesizing manganese‐vanadium ternary oxide within the framework of manganese oxide octahedral molecular sieve. This new composite material was characterized by elemental, X‐ray diffraction, volumetric (N2 adsorption‐desorption) and transmission electron microscopic analyses as well as by electron spin resonance and framework infrared spectroscopy. In order to study its activity and selectivity, UDCaT‐3 was used in the oxidation of alcohols to aldehydes, hydroxylation of phenol and acetophenone; and hydrogenation of p‐nitroanisole to p‐anisidine. It exhibited excellent activity and high selectivity towards the desired products. The active sites in UDCaT‐3 are the lattice oxygens which get depleted during reaction followed by regeneration with the help of the oxidizing agent. UDCaT‐3 is a stable, reusable and versatile catalyst.
Genotype–phenotype relationship for localization and age distribution of telangiectases in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia
Authors: Letteboer Tom G.W. , Mager Hans‐Jurgen , Snijder Repke J. , Lindhout Dick , Ploos van Amstel Hans‐Kristian , Zanen Pieter , Westermann Kees J.J.
Published: October 2008

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is an autosomal dominant disease characterized by arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) ranging from telangiectases to larger AVMs. Mutations in two genes cause HHT; ENG (HHT1) and ACVRL1 (HHT2). Although the hallmark for clinical diagnosis is the presence of telangiectases, there are few publications reporting the relative distribution and frequency of these features between HHT1 and HHT2. Here, the results of such analysis of telangiectases in 268 patients with HHT1 and 130 patients with HHT2 are described. Localization of the telangiectases is reported, and patients were clustered by age to estimate the site prevalence for different age categories. We show that telangiectases of the nasal mucosa are present at a higher prevalence and start to appear earlier in life than those of the oral mucosa or dermal sites in patients with either HHT1 or HHT2. Oral and nasal mucosal telangiectases are present earlier in life in patients with HHT1 compared to patients with HHT2, whereas dermal lesions are more frequent and appear earlier in life in patients with HHT2. In patients with either HHT1 or HHT2, the number of sites affected increases with age. In patients with HHT1, more women than men had skin telangiectases, particularly on the face. These results confirm that the frequency of AVMs differ between patients with HHT1 and HHT2, and that these differences can be detected on physical examination. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Federal judge gone wild? Seeking rescission, producer Francis claims his mediated settlement was coerced by jail time
Authors: Young Michael D.
Published: October 2008

An update on the Florida federal court mediation case involving the founder of the Girls Gone Wild video empire, provided by Los Angeles attorney Michael D. Young, who has closely monitored and detailed the case's impact on mediation confidentiality.
Mediator accreditation: Is it a risk? Or quality enhancement?
Authors: Willis Tony
Published: October 2008

Tony Willis, of London, contrasts, compares and criticizes past and present initiatives designed to provide more information to the public about the mediators they hire. Accrediting neutrals across jurisdictions is difficult, he writes, and bears little relationship to improving practice quality.
Efficient Synthesis of Chromone and Flavonoid Derivatives with Diverse Heterocyclic Units
Authors: Arai Midori A. , Sato Mina , Sawada Keisuke , Hosoya Takahiro , Ishibashi Masami
Published: October 2008

Chromones and flavonoids are important bioactive compounds. We envisioned that new heterocyclic‐substituted chromones or flavonoids might act as new bioactive compounds. To obtain diverse molecules, we developed an efficient one‐pot synthesis by Michael aldol reaction of chromone and flavonoid derivatives bearing heterocyclic units. The 2,3‐heterocyclic‐substituted chromones were obtained in one step. Moreover, the use of substituted benzaldehydes and subsequent addition of heterocyclic aldehydes gave 3‐pyridyl‐substituted flavones. We also examined these one‐pot reactions in the solid phase. To introduce an additional point of diversity into the molecules, Suzuki–Miyaura coupling was performed. Furthermore, we identified the cytotoxicity of the synthesized compounds against cancer cells (PANC1 and HeLa cells). Several compounds were cytotoxic to these cancer cells.
The pH Effect on the Naphthoquinone‐Photosensitized Oxidation of 5‐Methylcytosine
Authors: Yamada Hisatsugu , Tanabe Kazuhito , Ito Takeo , Nishimoto Sei‐ichi
Published: October 2008

The pH effect on the one‐electron photooxidation of 5‐methyl‐2′‐deoxycytidine (dmC) by sensitization with 2‐methyl‐1,4‐naphthoquinone (NQ) was investigated. Photoirradiation of an aqueous solution containing dmC and NQ under slightly acidic conditions of pH 5.0 efficiently produced 5‐formyl‐2′‐deoxycytidine, whereas similar NQ‐photosensitized oxidation of dmC proceeded to a lesser extent under more acidic or basic conditions. Fluorescence‐quenching experiments revealed that the less‐efficient photooxidation at pH values below 4.5 is attributed to the decreased rate of one‐electron oxidation of dmC owing to protonation at the N(3)‐position. The NQ‐photosensitized oxidation of an N(4)‐dimethyl‐substituted dmC derivative under various pH conditions also suggests that the pH change in the range of 5.0 to 8.0 may be responsible for a reversible deprotonation–protonation equilibrium at the N(4)‐exocyclic amino group of the dmC radical cation. In accord with the photochemical reactivity of monomeric dmC, the 5‐methylcytosine residue in oligodeoxynucleotides was oxidized efficiently by photoexcited NQ‐tethered oligodeoxynucleotides under slightly acidic conditions to form an alkali‐labile 5‐formylcytosine residue.
The Dimeric “Hand‐Shake” Motif in Complexes and Metallo–Supramolecular Assemblies of Cyclotriveratrylene‐Based Ligands
Authors: Carruthers Christopher , Ronson Tanya K. , Sumby Christopher J. , Westcott Aleema , Harding Lindsay P. , Prior Timothy J. , Rizkallah Pierre , Hardie Michaele J.
Published: October 2008

A series of clathrate and metal complexes with cyclotriveratrylene‐like molecular host ligands show a similar dimeric homomeric inclusion motif in which a ligand arm of one host is the intra‐cavity guest of another and vice versa. This “hand‐shake” motif is found in the trinuclear transition metal complex [Cu3Cl6(1)]⋅CH3CN⋅1.5 H2O in which 1 is tris(4‐[2,2′,6′,2′′‐terpyridyl]benzyl)cyclotriguaiacylene; in the self‐included M4L4 tetrahedral metallo‐supramolecular assembly [Ag4(2)4] ⋅(BF4)4 in which 2 is tris‐(2‐quinolylmethyl)cyclotriguaiacylene; in the 1D coordination chains [Ag(4)]⋅ReO4 ⋅CH3CN and [Ag(5)]⋅SbF6⋅3 DMF⋅H2O in which 4 is tris(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)cyclotriguaiacylene and 5 is tris{4‐(2‐pyridyl)benzyl}cyclotriguaiacylene; and in the acetone clathrate of tris{4‐(2‐pyridyl)benzyl‐amino}cyclotriguaiacylene. Clathrates of ligands 2 and 5 do not show the same dimeric motif, although 2 has an extended homomeric inclusion motif that gives a hexagonal network.
A generalized approach to demand buffering and production levelling for JIT make‐to‐stock applications
Authors: Swanson Ronald E.
Published: September 2008

Heijunka is a Just‐In‐Time scheduling technique that strives to level variety and/or volume over a fixed period in order to maintain low inventories and to avoid excessive batching of product types and/or volume fluctuations. Businesses that use heijunka scheduling and immediately fulfill customer orders upon receipt require a finished goods inventory to service that demand. This inventory must be appropriately sized to adequately balance the customers' variable demand against the level production rate from manufacturing. However, even producing for long periods of time at the true mean demand rate will not guarantee low inventories due to the random walk nature by which inventories are unavoidably generated. The production process must be willing and able to flex their production to eliminate this random walk. This paper develops the simple production control law that will allow manufacturing to reliably operate their JIT heijunka process. It determines the trade offs that must be made between: the time between fixed production rate changes (N), the finished goods inventory needed to provide a user specified level of backorders, and the flex needed in production capacity to guarantee that the process will continue to function effectively.
On‐line prediction of crystallinity spatial distribution across polymer films using NIR spectral imaging and chemometrics methods
Authors: Gosselin Ryan , Rodrigue Denis , Duchesne Carl
Published: September 2008

A rapid and non‐intrusive on‐line NIR imaging sensor is developed for monitoring spatio‐temporal crystallinity variations across the surface of polymer films. A multivariate image analysis and regression (MIA/MIR) approach is proposed and compared with standard NIR calibration techniques using averaged spectra or second order derivatives combined with PLS regression. Predictions of both the local and global crystallinity variations of HDPE, LDPE, and PP polymer samples were obtained with each approach. Our results show that small variations in crystallinity introduced by changes in cooling rates can be predicted within experimental errors. Crystallinity spatial distributions were also validated and found consistent with processing conditions.
Treatment of missing values in process data analysis
Authors: Imtiaz S. A. , Shah S. L.
Published: September 2008

Process data suffer from many different types of imperfections. For example, bad data due to sensor problems, multi‐rate sampling, outliers, compressed data etc. Since most modelling and data analysis methods are developed to analyze regularly sampled and well conditioned data sets there is a need for pre‐treatment of data. Traditionally data conditioning or pre‐treatment has been done without taking into account the end use of the data, for example, univariate methods have been used to interpolate bad data even when the intended end use of data is for multivariate analysis. In this paper we consider the pre‐treatment and data analysis as a collective problem and propose data conditioning methods in a multivariate framework. We first review classical process data analysis methods and acclaimed missing data handling techniques used in statistical surveys and biostatistics. The applications of these acclaimed missing data techniques are demonstrated in three different instances: (i) principal components analysis (PCA) is extended in data augmentation (DA) framework for dealing with missing values, (ii) iterative missing data technique is used to synchronize uneven length batch process data, and (iii) PCA based iterative missing data technique is used to restore the correlation structure of compressed data.
Parameter and state estimation in nonlinear stochastic continuous‐time dynamic models with unknown disturbance intensity
Authors: Varziri M. S. , McAuley K. B. , McLellan P. J.
Published: September 2008

Approximate Maximum Likelihood Estimation (AMLE) is an algorithm for estimating the states and parameters of models described by stochastic differential equations (SDEs). In previous work (Varziri et al., Ind. Eng. Chem. Res.,47(2), 380‐393, (2008); Varziri et al., Comp. Chem. Eng., in press), AMLE was developed for SDE systems in which process‐disturbance intensities and measurement‐noise variances were assumed to be known. In the current article, a new formulation of the AMLE objective function is proposed for the case in which measurement‐noise variance is available but the process‐disturbance intensity is not known a priori. The revised formulation provides estimates of the model parameters and disturbance intensities, as demonstrated using a nonlinear CSTR simulation study. Parameter confidence intervals are computed using theoretical linearization‐based expressions. The proposed method compares favourably with a Kalman‐filter‐based maximum likelihood method. The resulting parameter estimates and information about model mismatch will be useful to chemical engineers who use fundamental models for process monitoring and control.
Extremum‐seeking control of retention for a microparticulate system
Authors: Favache Audrey , Dochain Denis , Perrier Michel , Guay Martin
Published: September 2008

The operation of a paper machine relies on the close monitoring and control of several integrated units to ensure a high quality paper with the required specifications. In this paper, the retention control system in the wet‐end of a paper machine is considered. The control objective is to maximize the retention of fines and fibres in the paper sheet to prevent the accumulation of micro particles in the water system. We present an adaptive extremum‐seeking scheme for the optimization and control of retention in the wet‐end of a paper machine. An adaptive learning technique is introduced to construct an algorithm that drives the system to the optimal retention value. Lyapunov's stability theory is used in the design of the extremum‐seeking controller structure and the development of the parameter learning laws. The performance of the technique is illustrated via simulations based on a first‐principles dynamic model developed previously for a micro‐particulate system.
Papillary thyroid carcinoma: Evidence for intracytoplasmic formation of precursor substance for calcification and its release from well‐preserved neoplastic cells
Authors: Das Dilip K. , Sheikh Zaffar A. , George Sara S. , Al‐Baquer Tahani , Francis Issam M.
Published: October 2008

Psammoma bodies (PBs) are believed to represent a process of dystrophic calcification over nonviable and dying tissues. Light microscopic and ultrastructural observations suggest that PB formation follows the intracellular assembly of precursor substances and their calcification leading to death of tumor cells and their release. It may also be the result of local secretion of precursor substances like collagen by tumor cells into extracellular space and their calcification. In an earlier reported study, we demonstrated the extracellular localization of various precursor forms of PBs and of irregular calcification in fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) smears of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). In this report, we describe a PTC case with intracellular formation precursor substances for calcification and their release from the well‐preserved neoplastic cells before undergoing calcification. Ultrasound‐guided FNA smears from a small nodule in the left lobe of thyroid in a 40‐year‐old woman revealed a PTC with numerous intracytoplasmic targetoid bodies, which were magenta colored in MGG stain. On their release from the neoplastic cells, these targetoid precursor bodies were found to be forming pools of matrix material, some of which showed evidence of calcification. The cytologic findings were confirmed by histopathology of the tumor in the thyroidectomy specimen. For the first time, we demonstrate through cytomorpholgy the intracytoplasmic formation of targetoid bodies as precursor substances for calcification and their release from well‐preserved cells in PTC. We suggest that the calcification in PTC may not necessarily be taking place over nonviable and dying cells. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008;36:809–812. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cytomorphological diagnosis of malignant eccrine tumors: Report of two cases
Authors: Gangane Nitin , Joshi Deepti , Sharma S. M.
Published: October 2008

Though FNAC has been successfully used in diagnosing various neoplastic and nonneoplastic cutaneous lesions, there is a paucity of case reports describing the cytomorphological features of adnexal tumors. We hereby describe the cytological features of two histologically confirmed cases of malignant eccrine tumors. Case number 1 presented with an ulcerated infraclavicular swelling whereas case number 2 presented with a cystic swelling over left foot. FNA and histological examination of the resected specimens was performed using standard techniques. A cytological diagnosis of low grade papillary adenocarcinoma arising from skin adnexal structures was given in case number 1. Aspirate from case number 2 was reported as positive for malignant cells, and histological examination was advised. Histological examination revealed the presence of malignant eccrine acrospiroma in case number 1 and papillary digital adenocarcinoma in case number 2. Careful cytological examination displayed the characteristic of two cell population seen in eccrine tumors in both the cases. Diagnosis of malignant eccrine tumors cannot be made with certainity on cytology alone, hence the need to document the cytological features of these entities is emphasized. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008;36:801–804. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Simultaneous cytological diagnosis of herpes simplex virus infection and primary lung cancer: Report of two cases
Authors: Maounis Nicoletta , Blana Aikaterini , Ellina Eleni , Chorti Maria , Lekkakou Agathi , Mermigkis Dimitri , Spanakis Nick , Emmanouilidou Aphrodite
Published: October 2008

Herpes simplex is an uncommon cause of lower respiratory tract infection that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent late complications. We report two cases with simultaneous herpes simplex virus infection of the lower respiratory tract and lung carcinoma. Cytology of bronchial brushing and washing fluids and postbronchoscopic sputum established the diagnosis, which was further corroborated by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008;36:818–822. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dichtkonstruktionen in der Landwirtschaft
Authors: Strathmann Brigitte , Westphal‐Kay Brigitte
Published: October 2008

Der Artikel stellt dar, welche bauaufsichtlichen Verwendbarkeitsnachweise für Bauprodukte und Bauarten für Anlagen zum Lagern und Abfüllen von Jauche, Gülle und Silagesickersäften (JGS‐Anlagen) erforderlich sind. Hierbei wird auch der Zusammenhang zwischen den bauaufsichtlichen Verwendbarkeitsnachweisen für diese Bauprodukte und Bauarten sowie den Anforderungen gemäß § 19 g Wasserhaushaltsgesetz (WHG) beschrieben.

Des Weiteren wird auf die Anforderungen eingegangen, die im Rahmen der Erteilung allgemeiner bauaufsichtlicher Zulassungen für Bauprodukte und Bauarten für JGS‐Anlagen – insbesondere von mit Dichtungsbahnen ausgekleideten Erdbecken zur Lagerung von JGS – zu erbringen sind. Das DIBt erteilt schon seit längerem allgemeine bauaufsichtliche Zulassungen für Bauprodukte und Bauarten für Anlagen zum Lagern, Abfüllen und Umschlagen wassergefährdender Stoffe. Jauche, Gülle und Silagesickersäfte nehmen aber im Rahmen der wassergefährdenden Stoffe eine Sonderstellung ein, die in diesem Artikel erläutert wird. Ferner soll der Beitrag eine Hilfestellung zur Suche von technischen Regeln geben, die für Bauprodukte und Bauarten für JGS‐Anlagen gelten.
Regioselective Acylation of Nucleosides Catalyzed by Candida Antarctica Lipase B: Enzyme Substrate Recognition
Authors: Li Ning , Zong Min‐Hua , Ma Ding
Published: October 2008

The substrate recognition of Candida antarctica lipase B (CAL‐B) in the acylation of nucleosides was revealed through rational substrate engineering for the first time. CAL‐B displayed lower activities and excellent 5′‐regioselectivities (94 to >99 %) in the acylation of ribonucleosides 1f–1j as compared to those in the acylation of 2′‐deoxynucleosides 1a–1e. The excellent regioselectivities might be attributed to the favorable steric hindrance of the 2′‐hydroxy group present in ribonucleosides 1f–1j, which destabilizes the conformation of the 3′‐acylation transition state in the acylation of 1f–1j and thus reduces the amount of the minor regioisomer. The study of the acyl chain‐length specificity showed that CAL‐B was more specific toward short‐chain fatty acid vinyl esters, especially vinyl butyrate. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Preparation of the First Bench‐Stable Phenyl Selenolate: an Interesting “On Water” Nucleophilic Reagent
Authors: Santi Claudio , Santoro Stefano , Battistelli Benedetta , Testaferri Lorenzo , Tiecco Marcello
Published: October 2008

In this communication we report the synthesis and the characterization of the first solid and air‐stable selenolates, starting from commercially available phenylselenenyl halides and elemental zinc. These reagents were efficiently employed in the ring opening of epoxides as well as in other nucleophilic substitution and addition reactions showing an unexpected rate acceleration in water suspension at room temperature. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)