bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ferroelectric Properties of Pb(Zr1/2Ti1/2)O3-Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 Ceramics under Compressive Stress Applied Perpendicular to Electric Field
Authors: Unruan Muangjai , Sareein Thanapong , Prasatkhetragarn Anurak , Ngamjarurojana Athipong , Ananta Supon , Yimnirun Rattikorn
Published: December 2009

Effects of perpendicular compressive stress on the ferroelectric properties of ceramics in PZT-PZN system were investigated. The (1-x)Pb(Zr1/2Ti1/2)O3-xPb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 or (1-x)PZT- (x)PZN (x = 0.1-0.5) ceramics were prepared by a conventional mixed-oxide method. The ferroelectric properties were measured under compressive stress applied perpendicular to an electric field direction at stress levels up to 90 MPa using a compressometer in conjunction with a modified Sawyer-Tower circuit. It was found that with increasing compressive stress the area of the ferroelectric hysteresis (P-E) loops, the maximum polarization (Pmax), and the remanent polarization (Pr) decreased, while the coercive field (Ec) remained relatively constant. These results were interpreted through the domain switching, clamping of domain walls and de-poling mechanisms.
Composition, Structure and Properties of PZT-BT Ceramics Prepared by Two-Stage Sintering
Authors: Vittayakorn Wanwilai C. , Yimnirun Rattikorn , Ananta Supon
Published: December 2009

Ceramic solid solutions within the system (1-x)PZT-xBT, where x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5, were prepared by conventional mixed-oxide method combined with a two-stage sintering procedure. A sintering time of 2 h at 1000 °C followed by a second step in the temperature range of 1000-1200 °C for 2 h was employed to all samples and compared to the one-step sintering process. Phase formation, densification and microstructure of all ceramics were examined via X-ray diffraction (XRD), Archimedes method and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results lead to the conclusion that the pure perovskite phase and high densification of (1-x)PZT-xBT ceramics with fine grain can be successfully achieved under suitable two-stage sintering conditions.
Ion Exchange of Layer Structured Crystal CsTiNbO5 and its Application as Cathode Material in a Rechargeable Lithium Battery
Authors: Ohashi Masao
Published: December 2009

The layer structured titanoniobate CsTiNbO5 has been prepared in a solid state reaction using Cs2CO3, anatase type TiO2 and Nb2O5 at 1073 K. Ion exchange reactions of Cs+ in the interlayer space were studied in aqueous solutions. The host layers of the titanoniobate were maintained on the ion exchange reactions and the resulting products were found to contain interlayer water. The interlayer water in the lithium ion exchange product was removed by heating at 453 K in a vacuum. The resulting titanoniobate Cs0.10Li0.60H0.30TiNbO5 was evaluated for its use as the cathode in a rechargeable lithium battery. The cathode exhibited discharge and charge capacities of 130 and 99 mAhg-1 for the first cycle in the voltage range of 1.5 - 4.2 V. The amounts of Li+ intercalated and deintercalated were 1.16 and 0.88 of the formula unit, respectively.
Effect of Organic Compound on the Preparation of C/LiFePO4 Powders by Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Egawa Koji , Kodera Takayuki , Ogihara Takashi
Published: December 2009

Spherical C/LiFePO4 cathode materials were successfully prepared by spray pyrolysis. The saccharides such as monosaccharide and disaccharide or organic acid were used as carbon source. SEM observation showed that they had spherical morphology with particle size of about 1m. XRD analysis revealed that the olivine phase was obtained by heating at 700 °C under the atmosphere of argon/hydrogen (5 %). Electrochemical measurement revealed that the rechargeable capacity of LiFePO4 was significantly improved by the addition of carbon. The use of sucrose was most effective for the high rechargeable capacity and cycle stability.
Screen Printing Parameter Effect on the Surface Roughness Measurement of Printed Gold Paste on LTCC Tape
Authors: Shapee Sabrina Mohd , Alias Rosidah , Azmi Ibrahim , Ambak Zulkifli , Yusoff Zulfadli Mohamed , Saad Muhammad Redzuan
Published: December 2009

Effect of screen printing parameter such as squeegee speed was studied in this paper for the surface roughness of gold paste on the Ferro A6M LTCC tape. Roughness measurement was evaluated by 3D profilometer of the Ferro A6M LTCC tape co-fired with Au conductor paste.
Preparation and Characterization of Spherical Metal Particles by Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Kodera Takayuki , Myoujin Kenichi , Ogihara Takashi
Published: December 2009

Ag and Ni spherical fine powders were continuously produced by carrying out an aerosol process in a mass nanopowder production apparatus. The particles size, particle morphology, crystal phases and crystallinity of the as-prepared powders were characterized by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The particles were nonaggregated and they exhibited a spherical morphology with a narrow size distribution. The average sizes of Ag and Ni particles were 500 nm and 700 nm, respectively. The crystallinity of the as-prepared powders was high. The XRD patterns showed that the crystal phases of the as-prepared powders were the same as those of their respective metals.
Mechanical Properties of Bioactive Hybrid Organic/Inorganic Aerogels
Authors: Morales-Flórez Victor , Toledo-Fernández J.A. , Mendoza-Serna R. , Piñero Manuel , de la Rosa-Fox Nicolás , Santos A. , Esquivias Fedriani Luis Maria
Published: December 2009

Hybrid silica-organic polymer aerogels based on tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) have been synthesized, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and methyltriethoxysilane (MTES) have been used as organic phases. Synthetic wollastonite powder was added as bioactive phase. The composites were prepared by dispersing wollastonite powder in the sol with the assistance of high power ultrasounds to control the gelling time. Wet composites were dried under supercritical conditions of the solvent. The mechanical characterization was performed by uniaxial compression and by nanoindentation. Young`s modulus from uniaxial compression increase from 5 MPa to 100 MPa for increasing MTES content and also rupture modulus was enhanced from 0.85 MPa to about 50 MPa, so the incorporation of cross linkers in this kind of aerogels, was proven to enhance the mechanical resistance. However the inclusion of wollastonite powders provokes a dropping of the Young’s modulus and hardness. All the composites showed bioactivity by the formation of an apatite layer when immersed in Simulated Body Fluid (SBF).
Three Dimensional Upper Bound Modelling for Extrusion of Round-to-Octagon Section Using Linearly Converging Die
Authors: Maity Kali Pada , Rout Akshaya Kumar
Published: December 2009

The extrusion of section from round billet poses a great challenge for theoretical modeling of the process using upper bound method. The greatest difficulty in three-dimensional upper bound method is to determine kinematically admissible velocity field. The SERR (Spatial Elementary Rigid Region) technique is fairly applicable for analyzing extrusion of sections having re-entrant corners. A modified version of SERR technique has been used for extrusion of octagon sections from round billet through a linearly converging die. The circular cross section of the round billet is approximated by a regular polygon of equal area. The extrusion pressure has been computed for different boundary condition at the die billet interface. The optimum die geometry has been determined.
Physically Based Microstructure Modelling of AA6082 during Hot Extrusion
Authors: Krumphals Friedrich , Sherstnev Pavel , Mitsche Stefan , Randjelovic S. , Sommitsch Christof
Published: December 2009

Process parameters in aluminium extrusion technology are key points that influence product properties. The precipitation hardening aluminium alloy 6082 is investigated according to different process conditions and the influence onto the final microstructure is simulated as well as experimentally verified. A physical microstructure model based on three dislocation types and three nucleation sites for recrystallization is implemented into the commercial Finite Element package FORGE 2008 to calculate both the microstructure evolution during the extrusion process as well as the recrystallized fraction after the process. The precipitation kinetics during homogenization was investigated using the thermodynamic calculation software MatCalc since the main nucleation mechanism for recrystallization is particle stimulated. The experimental validation was done by miniature extrusion tests and the microstructure was investigated metallographically and by EBSD measurements.
Integrated Extruder Plant Automation with Learning Control
Authors: Pandit Madhukar
Published: December 2009

Integrated automation in a manufacturing plant demands control of manufacturing and material and product flow processes. Efficient data archiving and retrieval, quality control and process automation facilities are essential components which should be deployed to form one coherent system. As managers of extruder plants running look for ways and means for meeting market requirements, the demand for such integrated automation systems is rising. Integrated Process automation involves: - Overall production and process control - Data acquisition, archiving evaluation with feed-back to production planning and process control - Decentral control in local control loops for achieving isothermal extrusion - On-line visualisation of process variables for tighter man-machine interaction Providing the facility for prescribing the ranges of relevant process variables viz. billet temperature, die temperature, profile temperature at die exit, rate of cooling of the profile and extrusion speed is part of the integrated automation system. At the heart of the system are processes for mastering the core task of management of the thermal processes in the extruder by employing sensors and control techniques. Goal is to minimise the time to extrude a billet and simultaneously keep the process variables within prescribed limits. Automation in extrusion plants is made possible by progress in sensor technology and enhanced possibilities of data processing and organisation, advanced control methods which require simple models and facilities of integration of hardware and software employing state-of-the-art networking and protocols. Crucial is the non-contact temperature measurement of the billet and the profile at die exit. Since about two decades there has been a continuous progress in temperature measurement technology based on multi-spectral radiation pyrometers. They perform well for a large number of alloys and surface finishes and are reliable for industrial use. Disturbances can be suppressed using adequate signal processing
Analysis of Joint Quality along Welding Plane
Authors: Ceretti Elisabetta , Filice Luigino , Fratini Livan , Gagliardi Francesco , Giardini Claudio , La Spisa Dario
Published: December 2009

Porthole die extrusion is an always more important process for industrial applications. It is, however, characterized by a considerable complexity; in fact, different parameters have to be carefully set for improving the final part. A critical zone that strongly influences the goodness of the extruded component is the so called “welding plane”. It is the junction area where material flows converge inside the welding chamber. The variables that have to be controlled for improving the material characteristics in this zone are the effective stress, the pressure and the time that the material takes to cross the welding chamber. Moreover, material temperature is another fundamental issue that influences both the quality and the typology of the final joint. However, especially for complex parts, the material can follow diverse directions to get out from the die; this means that the deformation history can be different, thus influencing the quality of the final jont. In the study here proposed, the property of the welding plane was highlighted for an industrial component that was cut through a profile cross section carrying out both metallurgical and mechanical investigations. More in detail, specimens, derived from the extruded part, were mounted, polished and etched with Keller reagent and observed by a light microscopy. Then, macro and micro observation were developed highlighting the welding line position. Moreover, local values of the average grain size of the material were measured showing the microstructural evolutions undergone by the material due to the extrusion process. As far as mechanical tests are regarded, micro-hardness tests were executed nearby the welding line; in this way, correlations between material metallurgical evolutions and subsequent local mechanical performances were highlighted. Furthermore, a 3D numerical study was developed in order to point out the numerical ability to predict the welding line position for complex parts; finally, a welding criterion was used in order to locally validate the experimental observations. All these aspects are accurately analyzed and discussed in the paper.
An Analysis of Strength and Ductility of Ultrafine Grained Al Alloys
Authors: Kapoor R. , De P.S. , Mishra Rajiv S.
Published: December 2009

This paper brings together and compares data of various ultrafine grained (UFG) Al alloys processed through different routes. In general, the trend of decreasing ductility with increasing strength was observed for the UFG alloys. As compared to the coarse grained (CG) alloys, the UFG alloys show a lower ductility, a lower extent of work-hardening and a lower uniform elongation. Unlike the CG alloys, which show a large fraction of uniform to total elongation, in UFG alloys this fraction varies with processing technique. It is shown here that aging of some UFG Al alloys improves ductility. Further, it is shown that increasing the equivalent strain of pre-deformation increases ductility. From this it was inferred that high angle grain boundaries have an important influence on ductility. The variation of ductility with strain rate sensitivity has been found to match both the analytical prediction as well as data of various materials.
Recent Advances in the Development of Mechanically Alloyed Mo Silicide Alloys
Authors: Heilmaier Martin , Krüger Manja , Saage Holger
Published: December 2009

We review the current development status of Mo-Si-B alloys consisting of Mo solid solution and the intermetallic phases Mo3Si and Mo5SiB2 which could take advantage of the beneficial oxidation resistance of the silicide phases and of the outstanding mechanical properties of molybdenum. For adequate low temperature toughness a continuous Mo solid solution matrix should be established in the microstructure. Besides, wrought processing of such alloys at elevated temperatures requires the presence of an ultra-fine grained (UFG) microstructure. Both the prerequisites can be fulfilled using mechanical alloying (MA) as the crucial processing step which even yields nanostructured supersaturated powders after milling. However, values for the ductile-to-brittle transition temperature (DBTT) close to room temperature are unlikely due to grain boundary embrittlement by Si segregation. The possibility of reducing this segregation tendency by various micro-alloying additions will be demonstrated. Finally, the high temperature deformation behaviour of these UFG materials will be comparatively assessed against state-of-the-art Nickelbase single-crystalline superalloys.
Ductility of Thin Metallic Films
Authors: Pardoen Thomas , Coulombier Michael , Boe Alexandre , Safi A. , Brugger Charles , Ryelandt Sophie , Carbonnelle Pierre , Gravier Sébastien , Raskin Jean Pierre
Published: December 2009

Depending on the loading conditions, geometry and material characteristics, the ductility of thin metallic films is controlled either by the resistance to plastic localization or by the resistance to internal damage. New on-chip tensile tests performed on submicron aluminium films show significant strain hardening capacity leading to relatively good resistance to necking, while damage occurs through void nucleation at grain boundaries followed by their growth and coalescence. These results are discussed in the light of several other studies presented in the recent literature in order to unravel the origins of the frequently reported poor ductility of thin metallic films, and the various means existing to improve it.
Influence of Magnetic Field on Magnetostructural Transition in Ni46.4Mn32.8Sn20.8 Heusler Alloy
Authors: Lázpita Patricia , Chernenko Volodymyr A. , Barandiarán José M. , Orue Iñaki , Gutiérrez Jon , Feuchtwanger Jorge , Rodriguez-Velamazán José Alberto
Published: December 2009

A Mn-enriched Ni46.4Mn32.8Sn20.8 Heusler alloy has been prepared by the induction melting and casting method. The samples used were annealed at 900°C during 72 h with a subsequent water quench. The magnetostructural transformation (MST) in the vicinity of Tm=230K and Ta=250K has been found, and characterized by DSC, magnetization and resistivity measurements. Changes in the crystal structure due to the MST were observed using neutron diffraction at different temperatures. The crystal structure of martensitic phase shows a good fits to the 4-layered orthorhombic martensite with a Pmma space group. The linear shift of transformation temperatures was found in the entire high magnetic field range up 14T to be dTm/dB0 = -1.50 K/T and dTa/dB0 = -1.26 K/T, whereas in the low field range we found an increase of both characteristic temperatures. The entropy changes at the MST were evaluated using the Clausius-Clapeyron relationship. The transformation-induced magnetoresistance has been measured.
On the Asymptotic Behavior of Complete Kähler Metrics of Positive Ricci Curvature
Authors: Anchouche Boudjemâa
Published: December 2009

Let (X, g) be a complete noncompact Kähler manifold, of dimension n ≥ 2, with positive Ricci curvature and of standard type (see the definition below). N. Mok proved that X can be compactified, i.e., X is biholomorphic to a quasi-projective variety. The aim of this paper is to prove that the L2 holomorphic sections of the line bundle K−qXand the volume form of the metric g have no essential singularities near the divisor at infinity. As a consequence we obtain a comparison between the volume forms of the Kähler metric g and of the Fubini-Study metric induced on X. In the case of dimC X = 2, we establish a relation between the number of components of the divisor D and the dimension of the.
Heat‐Activatable Primers for Hot‐Start PCR and Hot‐Start One‐Step RT‐PCR: Endpoint and Real‐Time Experiments
Authors: Ashrafi Elena Hidalgo , Paul Natasha
Published: December 2009

Hot‐start PCR is a technique that improves PCR performance by reducing nonspecific amplification during the initial setup stages of the PCR. This unit describes hot‐start PCR protocols which utilize primers containing temperature‐sensitive modifications. The introduction of 4‐oxo‐tetradecyl (OXT) phosphotriester groups onto the 3′ end of the primer allows for primer‐based hot‐start PCR that is amenable for use in a number of PCR‐based applications. The protocols described in this unit utilize OXT‐modified primers in applications such as standard thermal cycling PCR, fast thermal cycling PCR, multiplex PCR, and one‐step reverse‐transcription PCR. This method is also advantageous for instances where improved PCR specificity is desired and a hot‐start polymerase suitable for your application is not available. Curr. Protoc. Mol. Biol. 88:15.9.1‐15.9.15. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The UCSC Genome Browser: What Every Molecular Biologist Should Know
Authors: Mangan Mary E. , Williams Jennifer M. , Kuhn Robert M. , Lathe Warren C.
Published: December 2009

Electronic data resources can enable molecular biologists to query and display many useful features that make benchwork more efficient and drive new discoveries. The UCSC Genome Browser provides a wealth of data and tools that advance one's understanding of genomic context for many species, enable detailed understanding of data, and provide the ability to interrogate regions of interest. Researchers can also supplement the standard display with their own data to query and share with others. Effective use of these resources has become crucial to biological research today, and this unit describes some practical applications of the UCSC Genome Browser. Curr. Protoc. Mol. Biol. 88:19.9.1‐19.9.28. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Molecular Analysis of Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Basehore Monica J. , Friez Michael J.
Published: December 2009

The gene responsible for Fragile X syndrome, fragile X mental retardation‐1 (FMR1), contains an unstable sequence of CGG trinucleotide repeats in its promoter region. Expansions of >200 trinucleotide repeats are considered full mutations and typically lead to abnormal methylation of the region resulting in loss of FMR1 expression. Males with loss of FMR1 protein are expected to be affected by Fragile X syndrome while females may or may not clinically manifest features of the condition. The protocols in this unit outline the complementary use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and methylation‐sensitive Southern blot hybridization to accurately measure trinucleotide repeat size and methylation status. These protocols are also used to evaluate CGG repeat size in two adult‐onset conditions known for their association with FMR1 premutation alleles, Fragile X Tremor/Ataxia (FXTAS) syndrome and Premature Ovarian Failure (POF). Curr. Protoc. Hum. Genet. 63:9.5.1‐9.5.16. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Techniques for Flow Cytometer Alignment
Authors: Jett James H. , Martin John C. , Habbersett Robert C.
Published: December 2009

This unit provides essential knowledge for correctly using any flow cytometer to ensure that data collected are accurate and reliable. Two levels of system alignment are described: routine alignment checks and complete alignment, both of which can be applied to a variety of instrument configurations. Curr. Protoc. Cytom. 50:1.10.1‐1.10.7. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Economic Considerations of Measurement
Authors: Sydenham Peter H.
Published: December 2009

Making a measurement has associated costs. Guidance is provided on where the costs arise and how to assess them at the project and national level.
Measures and Metrics; Their Application
Authors: Sydenham Peter H.
Published: December 2009

Setting up an effective measuring system requires an understanding of the process of measurement and its role in scientific investigation. This article explains the scientific process and terms used to describe the various kinds of measure. Following the description of the measurement tree and its levels of different measures, an explanation on how to construct a measuring system for complex situations is given. This article ends with an illustrative example of the development of a loaf of bread measuring system.
Formal Theory of Measurement
Authors: Finkelstein Ludwik
Published: December 2009

The article provides a concise formal presentation of the representational theory of measurement, which treats measurement as a mapping from a quality relational system to a numerical relational system. It outlines the roots of the theory in philosophical and mathematical developments. It outlines the conditions that a measurement mapping must satisfy. It considers uncertainty in the definition of measurement scales.
Measurement Theory in Physical, Social, and Psychological Science
Authors: Finkelstein Ludwik
Published: December 2009

The main aspects of the application of measurement theory to physical science are briefly considered. It is argued that important problems lie in domains for which there are inadequate theories as well as in quantum and relativistic physics. Problems of defining measurement in social sciences and psychology are discussed. They are seen to lie particularly in the difficulty in establishing satisfactory concepts and adequate theories.
Units
Authors: Petley Brian W.
Published: December 2009

The International System of Units (SI) was introduced to provide a universal ‘language’ for recording and communicating measurement in a unique, and unambiguous manner. The SI is used globally. It may be modified in order to reflect and satisfy the demands of scientific and technological progress, only after careful discussion and general international agreement. The legal national measurement systems, where different, bear a known relationship to the SI.
Designing the Sensor Interface
Authors: Yang Qing Ping
Published: December 2009

Sensor design is largely based upon selection of the most suitable converting principle or mechanism. These mechanisms can be best described in terms of energy transformation from one form (or domain) to another. This transformation is largely determined by the energy forms of input, output and, if necessary, modulation. These conversion mechanisms may be represented in different ways, namely, 3D space, matrix, and transducer conversion logic. These schemes and methods may be used to represent both energy and signal flows of a sensor interface or measuring instrument. A systematic approach to system specification is presented, and various tools for sensor development are also discussed in this article.
Selection of Sensors
Authors: Regtien Paul P.L.
Published: December 2009

This article briefly discusses a most important element in the process of designing or selecting a measuring system: the selection of the appropriate sensor for a particular measurement problem. The process of selection is illustrated using a simple example of a level measurement.
Reduction of Influence Factors
Authors: Regtien Paul P.L.
Published: December 2009

The accuracy of a measurement is affected by system imperfections and influence factors. In particular, the influences from the system's environment may produce unacceptable errors. Knowledge about the type of errors (additive, multiplicative; stochastic, deterministic) is a prerequisite for an effective suppression of these errors. In this section, some basic error reduction methods are discussed: isolation, compensation, feedback, and correction.
Introduction to Networked Instrumentation
Authors: McGhee Joseph
Published: December 2009

Instrumentation using computers is pervasive. This module introduces this type of instrumentation by summarizing the important aspects of data communication standards, equipment, and methods. Instrumentation interfaces are classified on the basis of data rate and distance. Close proximity, intermediate distance, and large distance communication are considered.
Instrument Interconnection
Authors: McGhee Joseph
Published: December 2009

The general issues of instrument interconnection are described. Parallel, serial, bus, and loop configured instrument interfacing are considered.
Asynchronous and Synchronous Interface Protocols
Authors: McGhee Joseph
Published: December 2009

The asynchronous communication protocol is described. An overview of the ASCII standard is given. The binary synchronous communication, or BSC, protocol and the high‐level data link control protocol, or HDLC, are described.
RS
232 and
EIA
/
TIA
232 Serial Interface
Authors: McGhee Joseph
Published: December 2009

Serial data interfaces are introduced with an emphasis upon the RS 232 interface. Some aspects of modems are described. This is followed by a detailed description of the RS 232 specification including details of electrical and mechanical details. What the RS 232 does not cover has been emphasized. Extension of the RS 232 to cover other serial communication conditions is described.
Voltage and Current Loop Transmission
Authors: McGhee Joseph
Published: December 2009

Voltage and current loop transmission systems are a long‐standing way of communicating sensor and control data. They are well‐established methods and are frequently used. The effect of series mode interference in both types of transmission loop is considered. The principles of the current loop are described. Two‐wire and four‐wire variable current potentiometers, current loop transmitters, and intelligent transmitters using temperature sensors as specific examples are described.
Specialized Amplifiers for Measurement Systems
Authors: McGhee Joseph
Published: December 2009

Besides the basic instrumentation amplifiers explained in
Operational Amplifiers
and
Instrumentation Amplifiers
, there is need for specialized amplifiers arrangements in measuring systems. This article covers the chopper stabilized systems, auto‐zeroing stage, isolation methods, and the charge amplifier.
Closed‐Loop Sampled Data Systems
Authors: Sydenham Peter H.
Published: December 2009

Today most practical control systems use discrete digital signals. Their operation is an extension of analog control systems principles, usually by addition of sampling of the signal stream. To understand how the digital controller system can be analyzed in depth, it is necessary to understand the sampling process.
Z
‐transforms are introduced as the means to investigate sampled (i.e. digital) systems. Stability issues and compensation schemes are addressed.
Characteristics and Theory of Knowledge
Authors: Mari Luca P.
Published: December 2009

In the course of history, the research about the nature of human knowledge, its characteristics, and limitations has produced a large number of theories and philosophical systems. General topics such as the reality of the objects of knowledge, the relation between the objects of knowledge and their models, the possibility of a definitive foundation for knowledge have been differently interpreted by different philosophers and scientists, and they are schematically reviewed here.
Principles of Semiotics as Related to Measurement
Authors: Mari Luca P.
Published: December 2009

Semiotics investigates the symbolization, as related to the coding and the decoding of information in a system of signs. The relation of ‘standing for’ is introduced and analyzed here in its elements of conventionality, in particular, in reference to the opposition between analog and digital coding, and its systemic nature is discussed in terms of the classical distinction of syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. Finally, measurement is presented as a peculiar semiotic operation.
Introduction to Signals in Physical Systems
Authors: Woschni Eugen Georg
Published: December 2009

Signals are carriers of information. Therefore, the parameters of the signal must be variable. This article provides an introduction to the task of measurement and the principal mathematical description, including disturbances and errors. Finally, the two fundamental problems of measurement—signal and system identification—are briefly introduced.
Signal Classification
Authors: Woschni Eugen Georg
Published: December 2009

This article follows on from Introduction to Signals in Physical Systems. Signals may be classified on the basis of their physical background: they could be digital or analog, which means they could be quantized or not, and their path may or may not be known. This article introduces the classification of signals, the representation using flow graphs.
Signals in the Frequency Domain
Authors: Woschni Eugen Georg
Published: December 2009

Signals can be mathematically described either in the frequency or in the time domain. Principal methods using the frequency domain are described here. First considered are periodic signals leading to the Fourier spectrum. Discussion then covers nonperiodic signals using the Fourier transform. Also dealt with is the spectral power density of nondeterministic signals, such as random noise.
Relationship Between Signals in the Time and Frequency Domain
Authors: Woschni Eugen Georg
Published: December 2009

Signals may be described as being of the same value either in the time or in the frequency domain. Therefore, it is possible to convert one domain into the other. The mathematical fundament of these conversions is the Fourier Transform. Here, the conversions are put together and it is shown, from the physical background, which conversions are reversible or not reversible. Some examples are given.
Discrete Signal Theory
Authors: Woschni Eugen Georg
Published: December 2009

Discrete signals are of paramount importance in measuring systems because they are the basis of digital systems. By means of sampling, instead of using an analog signal, a discrete signal appears, containing the whole information if the conditions of the sampling theorem are fulfilled. If this theorem is violated, aliasing errors arise in the signal processing after sampling. The infinite time functionx(t) has to be time limited by means of a truncation window leading to variation of the spectrum known as leakage distortion. On the basis of classical linear forms of the Fourier and Laplace transformations, the discrete signal analyses are handled using the Discrete Fourier transformation (DFT) and Z‐transformation method. Application of discrete signal processing is illustrated by mean‐value realization (integration) and prediction.
Geometrical Signal Representations
Authors: Woschni Eugen Georg
Published: December 2009

The description of signals in the signal space uses modern geometry to obtain a measure concerning the distance of two or more signals. Distance is related to error and is applied in these cases and in classification situations. While analog signals use the Euclidean space, digital signals are represented in a non‐Euclidean space with direct relation to the Hamming distance. Codegraph representation of this is applied in coding theory.
Typical Signals Arising in Measurement
Authors: Woschni Eugen Georg
Published: December 2009

A survey of typical signal forms both in the time and the frequency domain is given. Properties and examples of application of these signals in measurement are covered.
Systems in the Time Domain
Authors: Woschni Eugen Georg
Published: December 2009

Systems can be described either in the time or in the frequency domains. In this article, the methods using the time domain are treated: after some remarks concerning the classification of systems analogies, block diagrams and linearization are treated. The classical description using differential equations is followed by the state space description leading to flowcharts. Then the answer (response) functions to typical test signals were deduced. At the end, the answer to a general input by means of the convolution integral is obtained.
Stability Issues
Authors: Woschni Eugen Georg
Published: December 2009

Stability is an important property of systems. Stability may be necessary in most cases in measurement. In some instances, instability is desirable as in the generation of oscillations. In this article, the concept and the criteria of stability are covered and methods to realize stability are demonstrated. Problems of optimization and the testing of systems are dealt with.
Coding Theory and Its Application to Measurement
Authors: Woschni Eugen Georg
Published: December 2009

An introduction is first presented on the use of signal coding in measurement. A short survey on the theory of coding, including coding theorems is presented. Normally, binary codes are used especially the reflected codes as the Gray code or the Glixon code for absolute optical encoders. Incremental encoders are covered leading to their limitations given by the Least Significant Digit (LSD). Where the transmission line is of poor quality, the Bit Error Ratio (BER) is high and error correction is applied using alphabets with a large Hamming distance. The performance of this method is demonstrated using an example.
Sources of Information
Authors: Sydenham Peter H.
Published: December 2009

The path by which latent information of the world and the human mind is processed into useful information is covered along with how it flows into measurement use. The benefits of the Internet as a source of information are discussed.
Information Databases of Relevance to Measurement
Authors: Sydenham Peter H.
Published: December 2009

Database information services supporting measurement information is discussed. Few are directly measurement oriented. Most can assist in part.
Transfer Characteristics of Instrument Stages
Authors: Sydenham Peter H.
Published: December 2009

The response of an instrument stage needs to be understood in a general way and expressed in acceptable technical terms. Steady state and dynamic behavior are outlined. Examples are given.
Chiral Separations
Authors: Stalcup Apryll M.
Published: December 2009

Use of Chiral Additives

Chiral Stationary Phases

Ligand‐Exchange Phases

Pirkle Phases

Cyclodextrin Phases

Cellulosic and Amylosic Phases

Protein‐Based Phases

Chirobiotic Phases

Chiral Crown Ether Phases

Chiral Synthetic Polymer Phases

Chiral Separation Validation for
Hplc

Chiral Stationary Phases for Gas Chromatography

Chiral Separation Validation for Gas Chromatography
Quinones
Authors: Finley K. Thomas
Published: December 2009

Physical Properties

Chemical Properties

Syntheses

Manufacture

Health and Safety Factors
Seasonal and reproductive variation in body condition in captive female Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata)
Authors: Garcia Cécile , Huffman Michael , Shimizu Keiko
Published: December 2009

The geographic distribution of Japanese macaques includes populations with the most northern range of any primate species. Not surprisingly, females of this species are characterized by physiological adaptations and unique fat deposition mechanisms that facilitate their survival through the sometimes‐harsh seasonal conditions of temperate climates, as well as sustaining the metabolic costs of mating, pregnancy, and lactation. Here, we explore the relationship between nutritional status, seasonality, and reproductive status using anthropometric and leptin measures from 14 captive female Japanese macaques. No seasonal patterns were found in the levels of leptin, but there were differences between seasons in anthropometric measures, specifically between the beginning and the end of the mating season. Females gained weight and accumulated energy reserves in fall to prepare for mating activity, and to survive the severe conditions of winter, which is also the period of gestation if pregnancy occurs. Lactating females had larger total skinfolds relative to nonlactating individuals, and females with older babies at the beginning of the mating season had larger abdominal skinfolds than did those with younger babies. There was a relationship between the likelihood of conception and nutritional status, with females that conceived during one mating season being in better condition at the end of their previous mating season. Together, these results suggest that, even in captive settings, seasonal breeding has a cost on the energetic demands of mating, and that higher condition (i.e. fatter) females could afford the demands of lactation and reproduced more rapidly. Am. J. Primatol. 72:277–286, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diet of the Delacour's langur (Trachypithecus delacouri) in Van Long Nature Reserve, Vietnam
Authors: Workman Catherine
Published: December 2009

The six limestone langur taxa of Southeast Asia inhabit the rugged limestone karst mountains, although the reason for their current restriction to this habitat is unclear. From August 2007 to July 2008, I collected data on the diet and feeding behavior of the critically endangered Delacour's langur (Trachypithecus delacouri) in Van Long Nature Reserve, Vietnam. I used these data to evaluate the hypothesis that limestone langurs are found on karst habitat because they depend on endemic limestone plants. Feeding accounted for 29% of the langurs' activity budget. Young leaves dominated the diet monthly, seasonally, and annually. The annual diet consists of nearly 79% foliage with almost 60% young leaves. Despite a distinct wet and dry season, over the study period, seasonal variation in plant part consumption was slight. Fruit and seeds were a small contribution to the diet. Delacour's langurs ate 42 of 145 available species, and they concentrated on a subset of this number. Five plant species comprised more than 60% of the diet and 16 species comprised more than 93%. More than half of the diet came from climbers. Delacour's langurs are among the most highly folivorous of studied colobines and, along with the closely related T. leucocephalus of southern China, the most folivorous of the Asian langurs. Whether high folivory is owing to a lack of available fruits and seeds in limestone habitats is unknown. What is certain, however, is that the plant species most important in the Delacour's langurs' diet at VLNR, throughout the study, were not plants endemic to limestone. Feeding dependence alone, therefore, cannot explain the current distribution of limestone langurs on karst habitat. Am. J. Primatol. 72:317–324, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Brief communication: Mitochondrial haplotype C4c confirmed as a founding genome in the Americas
Authors: Malhi Ripan S. , Cybulski Jerome S. , Tito Raul Y. , Johnson Jesse , Harry Harold , Dan Carrie
Published: December 2009

Mitochondrial DNA analysis of 31 unrelated Shuswap speakers from a previously poorly sampled region of North America revealed two individuals with haplogroups rarely found in the Americas, C4c and C1d. Comparison of the complete genomes of the two individuals with others found in the literature confirms that C4c is a founding haplotype and gives insight into the evolution of the C1d haplotype. This study demonstrates the importance of collecting and analyzing data from Native North Americans when addressing hypotheses about the peopling of the Americas. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Life and death in a civitas capital: Metabolic disease and trauma in the children from late Roman Dorchester, Dorset
Authors: Lewis Mary E.
Published: December 2009

The impact that “Romanization” and the development of urban centers had on the health of the Romano‐British population is little understood. A re‐examination of the skeletal remains of 364 nonadults from the civitas capital at Roman Dorchester (Durnovaria) in Dorset was carried out to measure the health of the children living in this small urban area. The cemetery population was divided into two groups; the first buried their dead organized within an east–west alignment with possible Christian‐style graves, and the second with more varied “pagan” graves, aligned north–south. A higher prevalence of malnutrition and trauma was evident in the children from Dorchester than in any other published Romano‐British group, with levels similar to those seen in postmedieval industrial communities. Cribra orbitalia was present in 38.5% of the children, with rickets and/or scurvy at 11.2%. Twelve children displayed fractures of the ribs, with 50% of cases associated with rickets and/or scurvy, suggesting that rib fractures should be considered during the diagnosis of these conditions. The high prevalence of anemia, rickets, and scurvy in the Poundbury children, and especially the infants, indicates that this community may have adopted child‐rearing practices that involved fasting the newborn, a poor quality weaning diet, and swaddling, leading to general malnutrition and inadequate exposure to sunlight. The Pagan group showed no evidence of scurvy or rib fractures, indicating difference in religious and child‐rearing practices but that both burial groups were equally susceptible to rickets and anemia suggests a shared poor standard of living in this urban environment. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Brief communication: Reaction to fire by savanna chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) at Fongoli, Senegal: Conceptualization of “fire behavior” and the case for a chimpanzee model
Authors: Pruetz Jill D. , LaDuke Thomas C.
Published: December 2009

The use and control of fire are uniquely human traits thought to have come about fairly late in the evolution of our lineage, and they are hypothesized to correlate with an increase in intellectual complexity. Given the relatively sophisticated cognitive abilities yet small brain size of living apes compared to humans and even early hominins, observations of wild chimpanzees' reactions to naturally occurring fire can help inform hypotheses about the likely responses of early hominins to fire. We use data on the behavior of savanna chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) at Fongoli, Senegal during two encounters with wildfires to illuminate the similarities between great apes and humans regarding their reaction to fire. Chimpanzees' close relatedness to our lineage makes them phylogenetically relevant to the study of hominid evolution, and the open, hot and dry environment at Fongoli, similar to the savanna mosaic thought to characterize much of hominid evolution, makes these apes ecologically important as a living primate model as well. Chimpanzees at Fongoli calmly monitor wildfires and change their behavior in anticipation of the fire's movement. The ability to conceptualize the “behavior” of fire may be a synapomorphic trait characterizing the human‐chimpanzee clade. If the cognitive underpinnings of fire conceptualization are a primitive hominid trait, hypotheses concerning the origins of the control and use of fire may need revision. We argue that our findings exemplify the importance of using living chimpanzees as models for better understanding human evolution despite recently published suggestions to the contrary. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Degrees of uncertainty: An overview and framework for future research on experience‐based choice
Authors: Rakow Tim , Newell Ben R.
Published: December 2009

A striking finding has emerged recently in the literature: When decision makers are faced with essentially the same choice, their preferences differ as a function of whether options are described or are “experienced” via observation and feedback. For example, when presented the described choice: (A) A 90% chance of $0 and a 10% chance of $10 or (B) $1 for sure, people tend to prefer (A). But when those same two options are experienced through observation of “draws” from two payoff distributions that match the described options, the modal preference reverses. Why? This is just one question that the papers in this special issue address. In addition, they address the rich repertoire of issues that arise when one considers experience‐based choices. The decisions‐from‐experience paradigm—with its focus on the acquisition and integration of information prior to choice, as well the choice itself—taps many of the fundamentals of psychology (learning, memory, encoding, knowledge representation, modelling) thus inspiring novel and fruitful avenues for research. This paper reviews recent research on experience‐based choice, and highlights the contribution of the papers in the special issue. The paper introduces a framework that places different types of decisions along a continuum of uncertainty about what one is choosing between, which emphasizes the rich and varied role of “experience” in decision making. It ends by identifying important unsolved questions that are ripe for future research. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ChemInform Abstract: Nucleophilic Aromatic Substitution
Authors: Crampton M. R.
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.