bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electronic properties of bilayer graphene probed by Resonance Raman Scattering
Authors: Malard L. M. , Nilsson J. , Mafra D. L. , Elias D. C. , Brant J. C. , Plentz F. , Alves E. S. , Neto A. H. Castro , Pimenta M. A.
Published: August 2008

In this work we have measured the G′ Raman band of bilayer graphene using several laser lines. We show that from the analysis of the experimental data in the framework of the double resonance Raman model we can derive the Slonczewski‐Weiss‐McClure band parameters of bilayer graphene. We analyze the behavior of the theoretical model as a function of these band parameters by comparing with the experimental results. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of humidity on the hysteresis of single walled carbon nanotube field‐effect transistors
Authors: Rinkiö Marcus , Zavodchikova Marina Y. , Törmä Päivi , Johansson Andreas
Published: August 2008

Single walled carbon nanotube field‐effect transistors (SWCNT FETs) are attributed as possible building blocks for future molecular electronics. But often these transistors seem to randomly display hysteresis in their transfer characteristics. One reason for this is suggested to be water molecules adsorbed to the surface of the gate dielectric. In this study we investigate the hysteresis of SWCNT FETs at different relative humidities. We find that SWCNT FETs having atomic layer deposited (ALD) HfO2 – TiO2 – HfO2 as a gate dielectric retain their ambient condition hysteresis better in dry N2 environment than the more commonly used SiO2 gate oxide. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Suspended and non‐suspended carbon nanotube transistors for NO2 sensing – A qualitative comparison
Authors: Helbling Thomas , Hierold Christofer , Durrer Lukas , Roman Cosmin , Pohle Roland , Fleischer Maximilian
Published: August 2008

A qualitative comparison of the NO2 sensitivity of carbon nanotube field effect transistors (CNFETs) has been performed on CNFETs with 1) suspended channels, and 2) channels that are in contact with the SiO2 substrate. No significant response difference to NO2 is apparent in the two CNFET configurations. Therefore, the SiO2 substrate acting as a dominant indirect sensing mechanism can be ruled out.

Additionally, two measurement modes in CNFETs are presented and discussed. The measurement modes are: 1) chemiresistor response, and 2) the shift of the CNFET gate characteristic toward positive gate voltages. A method is proposed to acquire the shift in the gate threshold for future CNFET sensor applications, and examples of such transduction curves of two sensors are presented. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Theory of the elastic constants of graphite and graphene
Authors: Michel K. H. , Verberck B.
Published: August 2008

Born's long wave method is used to study the elastic properties of graphite and graphene. Starting from an empirical force constant model derived from full inplane phonon dispersions of graphite [Mohr et al., Phys. Rev. B 76, 035439 (2007)] we calculate the tension coefficients of graphene. Extending the model by interplanar interactions, we calculate the elastic constants of graphite. The agreement of our theoretical values with inelastic x‐ray scattering results on elastic constants of graphite [Bosak et al., Phys. Rev. B 75, 153408 (2007)] is very satisfactory. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Comparative study on thermal and plasma enhanced CVD grown carbon nanotubes from gas phase prepared elemental and binary catalyst particles
Authors: Schäffel Franziska , Schünemann Christoph , Rümmeli Mark H. , Täschner Christine , Pohl Darius , Kramberger Christian , Gemming Thomas , Leonhardt Albrecht , Pichler Thomas , Rellinghaus Bernd , Büchner Bernd , Schultz Ludwig
Published: August 2008

The preparation of nanoparticles in the gas phase through inert gas condensation is a very versatile method to fabricate catalyst particles that act as catalytic templates for carbon nanotube synthesis since the method allows for easy control of the catalysts' elemental composition and their morphology. In this contribution we report on the synthesis of carbon nanotubes via two distinct chemical vapour deposition routes, thermal and plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition, using such gas phase prepared elemental Fe catalyst particles as well as binary FePt nanoparticles. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Luther‐Emery liquid in the NMR relaxation rate of carbon nanotubes
Authors: Dóra Balázs , Gulacsi Miklós , Simon Ferenc , Wzietek Pawel , Kuzmany Hans
Published: August 2008

We analyze a recent NMR experiments by Singer et al. [Singer et al. Phys. Rev. Lett. 95, 236403 (2005).], which showed a deviation fromFermi‐liquid behavior in carbon nanotubes with an energy gap evident at low temperatures. A comprehensive theory for the magnetic field and temperature dependent NMR 13C spin‐lattice relaxation is given in the framework of the Luther‐Emery and Luttinger liquids.

The low temperature properties are governed by a gapped relaxation due to a spin gap (∼ 30 K), described by the Luther‐Emery liquid picture, which crosses over smoothly to the Luttinger liquid behaviour with increasing temperature. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Novel carbon nanotube network deposition technique for electronic device fabrication
Authors: Zavodchikova Marina Y. , Nasibulin Albert G. , Kulmala Tero , Grigoras Kestutis , Anisimov Anton S. , Franssila Sami , Ermolov Vladimir , Kauppinen Esko I.
Published: August 2008

We present a novel dry and room‐temperature method for the deposition of random carbon nanotube networks (CNTNs) onto various substrates. This method is based on natural charging of carbon nanotube (CNT) bundles in the gas‐phase and their efficient deposition directly downstream of the synthesis reactor by means of an electric field. The density of the deposited CNTNs was controllably adjusted by varying the deposition time and the electric field strength. Application of this deposition technique for the fabrication of single‐walled CNTNbased field‐effect transistors (FETs), where a random CNTN serves as a transport channel, is presented. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
In‐situ Vis/NIR spectroelectrochemistry of single‐walled carbon nanotubes enriched with (6,5) tubes
Authors: Frank Otakar , Kavan Ladislav , Green Alexander A. , Hersam Mark C. , Dunsch Lothar
Published: August 2008

An in‐situ optical Vis/NIR spectroelectrochemistry study was performed on single‐walled carbon nanotubes (CoMoCat) enriched with (6,5) tubes via density‐gradient ultracentrifugation. Thin semitransparent solid films were prepared from the solution of sorted nanotubes by vacuum filtration and purification with water. Despite the appearance of some bundling of the nanotubes during this procedure, peaks corresponding to optical transitions of tubes with distinct chiralities may be observed in the spectra. The effects of electrochemical redox doping on the electronic state of the nanotubes were investigated in an electrode potential window between –2 and +1.7 V vs. Ag‐pseudoreference electrode. The bleaching of ΔE11S and ΔE22S optical transitions is traced for particular tubes, which allows a partial quantification of changes in the electronic density of states (DOS) caused by their filling with electrons or holes. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Temperature dependence and pressure dependence of the vibrational properties of corannulene
Authors: Alvarez Laurent , Parc Rozenn Le , Jourdain Vincent , Dennler Samuel , Bantignies Jean Louis , Sauvajol Jean Louis , Rose Jonathan A. , Scott Lawrence T.
Published: August 2008

Herein, we report the experimental investigation of the vibrational properties of corannulene using Raman spectroscopy. The temperature dependences of the Raman spectra between 300 and 20 K reveal a very high sensitivity of the low frequency domain between 40 and 200 cm–1 compared to the intramolecular domain. The behavior of the Raman modes of the corannulene under pressure, between 0.53 GPa and 8 GPa, is also studied. Under pressure, in the intermolecular vibrational domain (<150 cm–1), two transitions occur suggesting metastable intermediate stages under pressure. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The effect of artichoke (Cynara scolymusL.) extract on ROS generation in HUVEC cells
Authors: Juzyszyn Z. , Czerny B. , Pawlik A. , Droździk M.
Published: August 2008

The effect of an artichoke extract on induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in cultured human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs) and its reductive properties were evaluated. Preincubation of HUVEC cells with the artichoke extract at concentrations of 25–100 µg/mL for 24 h abolished ROS generation induced by LPS and oxyLDL as evaluated by the fluorescence intensity of 2′,7′‐dichlorofluorescein (DCF). Potent, concentration‐dependent reductive properties of the artichoke extract were demonstrated by the reduction kinetics of cytochrome c in reference to ascorbate were also revealed. The results of the present study the warrant application of artichoke extracts as endothelium protecting agents. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) leaf aqueous and ethanol extracts on avoidance learning during stressful endurance performance of rats: a dose dependent study
Authors: Saggu S. , Kumar R.
Published: August 2008

Aqueous and 70% ethanol extracts of seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L., Elaeagnaceae) dry leaves were examined in rats for their dose dependent effect on active avoidance learning, if any. Avoidance learning was studied during endurance performance in multiple stressful environments consisting of light, noise and electric shock (10 mV) by using Runimex, a circular runway animal model. Neither of the evaluated extracts showed activity in rats to enhance cognitive functions with reference to avoidance learning during exposure to stressful conditions of multiple stressors. But both extracts were found to possess physical performance enhancing activity during the studied stressful conditions. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Azadirachta indica modulates carcinogen biotransformation and reduced glutathione at peri‐initiation phase of benzo(a)pyrene induced murine forestomach tumorigenesis
Authors: Gangar Subhash Chander , Koul Ashwani
Published: August 2008

The present study evaluated the effects of aqueous Azadirachta indica leaf extract (AAILE) on the activities of certain phase I (cytochrome P450, cytochrome b5 and aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase) as well as phase II (glutathione‐S‐transferase and UDP‐glucuronosyl transferase) biotransformation enzymes; and reduced glutathione (GSH) (in forestomach and hepatic tissues) during/after intra‐gastric instillations of B(a)P in murine forestomach tumorigenesis bioassay protocol. The activities of phase I biotransformation enzymes were found to increase, whereas a decrease in GSH content as well as glutathione‐S‐transferase was observed in mice receiving only B(a)P during as well as 2 weeks after B(a)P instillations. The activity of UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase decreased during B(a)P instillations, whereas after the latter, the activity increased when compared with the control mice. However, in mice that received AAILE along with B(a)P instillations, a decrease in phase I enzymes was accompanied by an increase in phase II enzymes as well as GSH contents. Only AAILE treatment reduced the activities of phase I biotransformation enzymes and enhanced the GSH contents as well as the activities of phase II enzymes. Observations of the present study seem to be quite significant and (when taken together with our earlier findings) provides evidence for A. indica mediated modulation of the peri‐initiation phase of the process of forestomach tumorigenesis. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Size dependent structural and electronic properties of MgO nanotube clusters
Authors: Chen Liang , Xu Can , Zhang Xiaofang , Cheng Chuan , Zhou Tao
Published: August 2008

MgO nanotube clusters which cross sections are composed of two‐, three‐, four‐, and five‐membered rings are constructed and studied by the density functional theory at B3LYP/6‐31G(d) level. The variations of bond length present anisotropic effect. Three‐membered ring nanotube cluster is the most stable tube among these MgO isomers. Mixed covalent and ionic bonding always exists in MgO nanotube clusters. With increasing length of MgO nanotube clusters, the averaged atomic charge increases, and converge to 1.227; the s‐p separation of O bands decreases; whereas energy gap nearby frontier orbitals present dramatic difference corresponding to various structure family. It is possible that MgO nanotube clusters show electronic properties of semiconductor. An interpretation for MgO nanotube clusters fabricated by simply thermal methods is proposed. The structural and electronic properties of MgO nanotube clusters are discussed systematically in details. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
CCSD(T) and MRCI studies on the ground and excited states of BrOClO and ClOBrO
Authors: Li Yumin
Published: August 2008

In this work, three forms (cis, trans and nonplanar) of ClOBrO and BrOClO were optimized at CCSD(T)/cc‐pVTZ level of theory. At the most stable forms (nonplanar form) of ClOBrO and BrOClO, the vertical excitation energies for the lowest six singlet states and two triplet states were calculated at the multireference internally contracted configuration interaction (MRCI) level of theory using cc‐pVDZ, Aug‐cc‐pVDZ, cc‐pVTZ, and Aug‐cc‐pVTZ basis sets. The scalar relativistic effect on the excited states of BrOClO and ClOBrO were estimated. In addition, the potential energy curves of the lowest six singlet states and two triplet states of BrOClO and ClOBrO, as well as BrOOCl were calculated at both MCSCF (complete active space self‐consistent field) and MRCI levels of theory using Aug‐cc‐pVDZ basis set on the active space (18e,12o) along the distances of BrOClO, ClOBrO, and BrOOCl. The results were compared among BrOOCl, ClOBrO, and BrOClO. The first singlet excited state of BrOOCl is 1.12 eV higher than that of BrOClO and 1.36 eV higher than that of ClOBrO at MRCI/cc‐pVTZ level of theory. The first triplet excited state of BrOOCl is 0.77 eV higher than that of BrOClO and 0.86 eV higher than that of ClOBrO at MRCI/cc‐pVTZ level of theory. Most of the excited states of BrOClO studied in this work are unbound states; but most of the ClOBrO and BrOOCl excited states studied in this work are weakly bound states at MRCI level of theory. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Theoretical calculations of transition probabilities and oscillator strengths for Ti III and Ti IV
Authors: Zhang Tian‐Yi , Zheng Neng‐Wu , Ma Dong‐Xia
Published: August 2008

Due to the complicated electronic configuration of atoms and ions of the transition metal elements, the studies for properties such as transition probabilities and oscillator strengths for these atoms and ions are not systematic. Because of the existence in a variety of stellar objects and wide use in the field of astrophysics, titanium has long been of interest for many researchers. In this article within the Weakest Bound Electron Potential Model (WBEPM) theory, comprehensive set of calculations for transition probabilities and oscillator strengths for Ti III and Ti IV are performed. Many of our results had no previous experimental or theoretical values, so these predictive results could be of some value to the workers in this field. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Quantum‐chemical study of the singlet oxygen emission
Authors: Minaev Boris F. , Minaeva Valentina A. , Evtuhov Yurij V.
Published: August 2008

Intensity distribution in rotational lines of the 0–0 band of the a1Δg → X3Σ transition in the oxygen molecule at λ = 1270 nm is studied by quadratic response (QR) method in a framework of multiconfiguration self‐consisted field (MCSCF) theory. The distance dependence of the transition magnetic moment and the (0–0)/(0–1) bands intensity ratio are calculated. A short review of previous theory of the red and infrared atmospheric oxygen bands and of their enhancement by collisions is presented to analyze and compare the new results. Enhancement of these bands in O2 collisions with Li2 and N2 molecules is calculated by QR method. Diamagnetic species simulate solvent molecules of different optical polarizability. Specific influence of collisions on vibronic bands is stressed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Extended Hartree–Fock theory of chemical reactions. VIII. Hydroxylation reactions by P450
Authors: Isobe Hiroshi , Nishihara Satomichi , Shoji Mitsuo , Yamanaka Shusuke , Shimada Jiro , Hagiwara Masayuki , Yamaguchi Kizashi
Published: August 2008

We have investigated the reaction pathways for the primary hydroxylation reaction of trimethylmethane by a high‐valent Fe(IV)O porphyrin π‐cation radical species known as compound I at the B3LYP/CEP‐31G level. The isoelectronic analogy of the Fe(IV)O core of compound I to a molecular oxygen (O2) has been successfully used to clarify the important roles of the singlet excited state of the Fe(IV)O core in the alkane hydroxylation, which has hitherto been neglected. The reaction is initiated by the rate‐determining hydrogen‐atom abstraction from the substrate to give a discrete radical intermediate complex, in accordance with the conventional radical rebound mechanism. Similar to the chemistry of O2, however, one of the singlet excited states, i.e., the diradical component of the 1Δ state of the Fe(IV)O core intercepts the triplet ground state (the 3Σ state) in the region of the transition state for the hydrogen abstraction. Our findings strongly indicate that the exchange polarization or intersystem crossing for the nonradiative transition to the locally singlet state is highly important to enhance the reactivity of compound I. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
Driving with tentacles: Integral structures for sensing and motion
Authors: von Hundelshausen Felix , Himmelsbach Michael , Hecker Falk , Mueller Andre , Wuensche Hans‐Joachim
Published: August 2008

In this paper we describe a LIDAR‐based navigation approach applied at both the C‐Elrob (European Land Robot Trial) 2007 and the 2007 DARPA Urban Challenge. At the C‐Elrob 2007 the approach was used without any prior knowledge about the terrain and without global positioning system (GPS). At the Urban Challenge the approach was combined with a GPS‐based path follower. At the core of the method is a set of “tentacles” that represent precalculated trajectories defined in the ego‐centered coordinate space of the vehicle. Similar to an insect's antennae or feelers, they fan out with different curvatures discretizing the basic driving options of the vehicle. We detail how the approach can be used for exploration of unknown environments and how it can be extended to combined GPS path following and obstacle avoidance allowing safe road following in case of GPS offsets. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microtubule‐Based Gold Nanowires and Nanowire Arrays
Authors: Zhou Jing C. , Gao Yao , Martinez‐Molares Alfredo A. , Jing Xiaoye , Yan Dong , Lau Joseph , Hamasaki Toshikazu , Ozkan Cengiz S. , Ozkan Mihrimah , Hu Evelyn , Dunn Bruce
Published: August 2008

Biological structures are attractive as templates to form nanoscale architectures for electronics because of their dimensions and the ability to interact with inorganic materials. In this study, we report the fabrication and electrical properties of microtubule (MT)‐templated Au nanowires, and methods for assembling Au nanowire arrays based on these templates. The adsorption of MTs on silicon substrates is an effective means for preserving the conformation of the MT and provides a convenient platform for electrical measurements. To improve the metallization of MTs, a photochemical route for gold reduction is adapted, which leads to continuous coverage. The conductivity values measured on micrometer‐long nanowires are similar to those reported for other biotemplated gold nanowires. A protocol for fabricating arrays of MT‐templated gold nanowires is demonstrated.
Characterization of Self‐Assembled Metallodendrimers in Solution, in the Gas Phase, and at Air/Solid Interfaces
Authors: Baytekin H. Tarik , Sahre Mario , Rang Alexander , Engeser Marianne , Schulz Andrea , Schalley Christoph A.
Published: August 2008

It is found that 4,4′‐bipyridines functionalized in their 3,3′‐positions with Fréchet dendrons of 0th to 3rd generation self‐assemble with (dppp)M(II) triflates (dppp: bis‐(diphenylphosphino)propane; M = Pd, Pt) into metallo–supramolecular squares. They bear a nanometer‐sized cavity inside an unpolar dendritic shell. A total of eight amide groups decorate the rims of the cavity connecting the dendrons to the square. Evidence for their formation up to the third generation comes from ESI‐FTICR mass spectrometry and NMR experiments. Based on these results, the presence of significant amounts of other polygons or open‐chain oligomers can be excluded. Exchange processes have been studied by variable‐temperature NMR spectroscopy and by following the ligand exchanges between different squares by mass spectrometry. The ligand exchange is much slower for the Pt(II) squares as compared to their Pd(II) analogs. Visualization of films of these dendrimers using atomic force microscopy (AFM) provides information on their molecular dimensions. After deposition of a square monolayer on the surface, a slow reorganization within this layer is observed which leads to the formation of “tower‐like” aggregates and multi‐layer formation. The interplay of interactions between the dendrimers and the surface and interactions between different dendrimers are invoked to rationalize the observations.
Establishment of a performance driven improvement programme
Authors: Spork Gunther , Pichler Uwe
Published: August 2008

This article summarises the results of an improvement programme at Magna Powertrain. Magna Powertrain belongs to one of the largest automotive suppliers in the world. It develops mechatronic (mechanical and software) systems for powertrain.

The improvement programme, related to the improvement of the systems and software engineering processes, is based on ISO 15504/Automotive SPICE and the safety‐related standard IEC 61508.

Systems have been improved and implemented to control the processes on the basis of the so‐called performance trends. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel linear drive for next‐generation reciprocating vapor compressors
Authors: Howe David , Wang Jiabin
Published: August 2008

This article describes a single‐phase linear drive that has been developed for refrigerator compressor applications, and which incorporates various novel features. It employs a tubular, moving‐magnet, Halbach magnetized motor, which enables the piston stroke to be accurately controlled by regulating the input current, while the electrical supply frequency is automatically adjusted to track changes in the mechanical resonant frequency of the compressor system. In this way, the refrigerator cooling capacity can be continuously modified according to the demand and the compressor always operates at maximum efficiency. This results in significant energy savings compared with fixed‐stroke, fixed‐frequency compressors. The performance capability is demonstrated by measurements from a prototype drive and compressor system. © 2008 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Model development for nonlinear dynamic energy conversion system: an advanced intelligent control paradigm for optimality and reliability
Authors: Muhando Endusa Billy , Senjyu Tomonobu , Omine Eitaro , Kinjo Hiroshi , Funabashi Toshihisa
Published: August 2008

Future prospects of the global wind industry are very promising: even on a conventional scenario the total wind power installed worldwide is projected to more than double from 74 GW by end of 2006 to 160 GW by 2012. The main challenge is wind stochasticity that impacts on both power quality and drive‐train fatigue from cyclic loading for a wind energy conversion system (WECS). To investigate amelioration of these problems, the approach in this study involves firstly, modeling: the wind speed is generated by an autoregressive moving average (ARMA) model, while the turbine, gearbox, and generator subsystems are represented with a spring‐mass‐damper mathematical equivalent. Secondly, an advanced intelligent control paradigm for optimality and reliability is formulated based on the models. The control strategy—involving design of a linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG) to damp these undesired oscillations—is applied to the detailed performability model. A pitch controller prevents rotor overspeed by ensuring the maximum power constraint. Computer simulations reveal that load reduction through ‘intelligent’ control systems becomes more attractive compared with designing mechanical systems to cope with large loads. © 2008 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Study of the load‐following performance of distributed generators in a micro‐grid
Authors: Koyanagi Kaoru , Taguchi Akira , Ishimaru Masachika , Yokoyama Ryuichi
Published: August 2008

Distributed generators such as the micro‐turbine generator (MTG), fuel cell (FC) and solar power generator will be increasingly installed and operated in distribution networks. With this tendency, a new concept of energy supply system called themicro‐gridis now being studied and tested in the field today. This paper presents the results of a study on the load‐following performance of typical distributed generators, MTG and FC by modeling and simulations. In addition, behaviors of voltage and frequency in a micro‐grid after sudden separation from the utility grid (islanding condition), in which MTG and FC are installed, were studied by simulations. © 2008 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Selective control of voltage polarity in a single‐chamber solid‐oxide fuel cell using the same catalytic electrodes with different sizes
Authors: Nagata Akiyoshi , Kimura Takeshi
Published: August 2008

The selective control of the voltage polarity in a single‐chamber solid‐oxide fuel cell (SC‐SOFC) constituting the anode and cathode arranged at the same electrolyte surface of yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) or samaria‐doped ceria (SDC) and which can operate in a flowing mixture of hydrogen and oxygen is discussed on the basis of the dissociation and adsorption reactions due to the catalytic materials and electrode configurations. The open circuit voltage (OCV) of SC‐SOFC showed the highest value when the H2:O2 ratio was around 2:1, which might be equal to the mol ratio of oxygen and hydrogen based on the reaction of water formation by the electrochemical reaction in the cell. The voltage polarity of the cell using the Pt and LSM (La0.7Sr0.3MnO3) catalysts was the same as in the conventional SOFC such that in the Pt catalysis the anode became negative whereas in the LSM catalysis the cathode was independent of the electrode configurations. In SC‐SOFC using the same Pt catalyst, the larger Pt electrode functioned as the cathode desorbing the oxide ion conducting in YSZ or SDC. As a result, it was confirmed that the voltage polarity of SC‐SOFC could be selectively controlled by making use of the same catalytic electrodes with different sizes, and that the I–V characteristic of the cell improved by using SDC with Pt electrodes with a surface area ratio of 2:1. © 2008 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Particle swarm optimization with approximate gradient
Authors: Nakagawa Naoya , Ishigame Atsushi , Yasuda Keiichiro
Published: August 2008

This paper presents a new Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) technique that uses the approximate gradient of the object function. Sensitivity is not normally used in the PSO algorithm, so it is expected that the present approach employing the approximate gradient can provide a more efficient search. The main advantage of the present PSO approach is that, in contrast to approaches using the gradient, by using the approximate gradient it is also possible to apply PSO to nondifferentiable functions. In this paper, we shall verify the effectiveness of the proposed method through its application in several benchmark problems. © 2008 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Microsatellite analysis of the maternal origin of Myrica rubra seeds in the feces of Japanese macaques
Authors: Terakawa Mari , Isagi Yuji , Matsui Kiyoshi , Yumoto Takakazu
Published: August 2008

Identifying the maternal origin of dispersed seeds is a challenging task because it is impossible to directly track seed movement once an animal has ingested them. However, recent development of molecular techniques allows us to identify the maternal origin of dispersed seeds in natural plant populations. Here we analyzed the maternal origin of Myrica rubra seeds found in the feces of Yakushima macaques. We detected a high level of diversity among the dispersed seeds, with an average of 3.0 maternal origins (range 1–9) in each feces. The average dispersal distance was 270.0 m (range 20.4–634.0 m) and the average of distance between maternal trees of dispersed seeds in the same feces was 161.5 m (range 0–573.9 m). These results suggest that seed dispersal by macaques plays an important role in maintaining the genetic diversity of Myricarubra populations.
Delayed Neuropathy Due to Organophosphate Insecticide Injection in an Attempt to Commit Suicide
Authors: Ergün Selma Sönmez , Öztürk Kahraman , Su Özlem , Gürsoy Esra Başar , Uǧurad Işil , Yüksel Gökşen
Published: August 2008

Organophosphates (OPs) are commonly used as pesticides throughout the world. Exposures to OPs cause a significant number of poisonings and deaths every year. Organophosphate-induced delayed polyneuropathy is a sensory-motor distal axonopathy which usually occurs after exposure of certain OP insecticides. Neuropathies due to ingestion of OPs have rarely been reported in the literature. Moreover, until now, there is no report of a patient developing organophosphorus injection-induced delayed neuropathy in the literature. We report a patient with serious organophosphorus-induced delayed neuropathy due to malathion injection. The patient was a 32-year-old female who self-injected undetermined amounts of malathion over the median nerve trace on the forearm crease in a suicide attempt which resulted in peripheral neuropathy.
Acquired immunity: immunosenescence and physical activity
Authors: Malaguarnera Lucia , Cristaldi Erika , Lipari Helga , Malaguarnera Mariano
Published: August 2008

Several lines of evidence indicate that infectious diseases, cancer, and autoimmune disorders occur more frequently in elderly people, thus suggesting that altered function of immune organs and cells, such as thymus and T and B lymphocytes are of primary importance in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Furthermore, old subjects are less responsive to vaccine than younger because of immune changes. The most common changes accompanying the adaptive immune system include decrement of T and B cells proliferation, repertoire degeneracy, increase of the memory cell type, decreased numbers of naive cells, and shift from T helper1(Th1) to T helper2(Th2) response. Regular exercise in the elderly may improve the alterations in acquired immunity which follow the physiological process of aging, allowing a major resistance against external pathogens and a better quality of life.
Regulation of Steroid Hormone Biosynthesis by the Cytoskeleton
Authors: Sewer Marion B. , Li Donghui
Published: August 2008

Steroid hormones are synthesized in response to signaling cascades initiated by the trophic peptide hormones derived from the anterior pituitary. The mechanisms by which these peptide hormones regulate steroid hormone production are multifaceted and include controlling the transcription of steroidogenic genes, regulating cholesterol (substrate) uptake and transport, modulating steroidogenic enzyme activity, and controlling electron availability. Cytoskeletal polymers such as microfilaments and microtubules have also been implicated in regulating steroidogenesis. Of note, steroidogenesis is a multi‐step process that occurs in two organelles, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the mitochondrion. However, the precise mechanism by which substrates are delivered back and forth between these two organelles is unknown. In this review we will discuss the role of components of the cytoskeleton in conferring optimal steroidogenic potential. Finally, we present data that identifying a novel mechanism by which sphingosine‐1‐phosphate induces mitochondrial trafficking to promote steroidogenesis.
Thermal Stability of Immobilized Lipase from Candida antarctica in Glycerols with Various Water Contents at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Kobayashi Takashi , Matsuo Takemasa , Kimura Yukitaka , Adachi Shuji
Published: August 2008

The immobilized lipase from Candida antarctica (fraction B, CALB) was incubated in glycerols with various water contents at 80–100 °C to measure the residual activity as a function of time. The glycerol‐containing water stabilized the immobilized CALB, especially at 30–60 wt% water contents. The thermal inactivation behaviors of the immobilized CALB were expressed by a model in which the free energy of activation for the inactivation of the immobilized lipase molecules obeyed a Gaussian distribution.
A Q312X mutation in the hemojuvelin gene is associated with cardiomyopathy due to juvenile haemochromatosis☆
Authors: Nagayoshi Yasuhiro , Nakayama Masafumi , Suzuki Satoru , Hokamaki Jun , Shimomura Hideki , Tsujita Kenichi , Fukuda Masaya , Yamashita Takuro , Nakamura Yoshinori , Sugiyama Seigo , Ogawa Hisao
Published: August 2008

Background and aims:

Juvenile haemochromatosis (JH) is an autosomal recessive iron disorder characterized by the early onset of secondary cardiomyopathy. The candidate modifier genes are hemojuvelin (HJV) and hepcidin antimicrobial peptide (HAMP). In the Japanese population, the prevalence of JH is quite low. The influence of HJV mutation on the JH phenotype is still unclear.

Methods and results:

We searched for possible mutations in a Japanese family with 2 members who were JH patients with severe heart failure. To search for possible variants in the HJV and HAMP genes, we performed direct sequencing in the family members. A homozygous nonsense mutation in exon 4 of HJV (Q312X) was identified in the JH patients and their mother. Three individuals in the family were heterozygous for this mutation. Subsequently, we evaluated the frequency of Q312X mutation in a large population (nw=361) without heart failure, using allele‐specific real‐time PCR assay. No Q312X mutation was detected in this population. In the patients with the homozygous HJV mutation, iron loading revealed high serum ferritin concentration with accompanying elevated transferrin iron saturation. In contrast, ferritin levels were within the normal range in individuals with the heterozygous mutation.

Conclusions:

We found a nonsense mutation in the HJV gene. This mutation elevates ferritin levels and leads to JH associated with severe cardiomyopathy.
Daily physical activities in chronic lower back pain patients assessed with accelerometry
Authors: van Weering M.G.H. , Vollenbroek‐Hutten M.M.R. , Tönis T.M. , Hermens H.J.
Published: August 2008

Background: Normalization of activities in daily living is an important goal in rehabilitation treatment of chronic lower back pain (CLBP) patients. Clinicians indicate that CLBP patients often show deconditioning but also CLBP patients who seem to be too active are seen. The objective of the present cross‐sectional study was to gain more insight into the daily activity pattern of CLBP patients compared to controls, using accelerometry.

Methods: Daily activities were assessed by measuring body movement with a tri‐axial accelerometer that was worn for seven consecutive days during waking hours. Measurements were performed in the daily environment (in‐doors and out‐doors) of the participant. Differences between activity level, time of day and work status were tested.

Results: Data were obtained from 29 CLBP patients and 20 controls. Results show that the overall activity levels of patients (mean 0.75; SD 0.43) are not significantly different from those of controls (mean 0.71; SD 0.44). However, patients show significantly higher activity levels in the morning (p<0.001) and significantly lower activity levels in the evening (p<0.01) compared to controls. No significant differences in activity levels were found between leisure time and working days within either group; furthermore no significant differences in activity levels were found between patients with different work status.

Conclusion: Overall activity levels do not differ significantly between CLBP patients and controls, but the distribution of activities over the day differs significantly.
Evolutionary substitution of two amino acids in chloroplast SRP54 of higher plants cause its inability to bind SRP RNA
Authors: Richter Christine V. , Träger Chantal , Schünemann Danja
Published: August 2008

The chloroplast signal recognition particle (cpSRP) consists of a conserved 54 kDa subunit (cpSRP54) and a unique 43 kDa subunit (cpSRP43) but lacks SRP‐RNA, an essential and universally conserved component of cytosolic SRPs. High sequence similarity exists between cpSRP54 and bacterial SRP54 except for a plant‐specific C‐terminal extension containing the cpSRP43‐binding motif. We found that cpSRP54 of higher plants lacks the ability to bind SRP‐RNA because of two amino acid substitutions within a region corresponding to the RNA binding domain of cytosolic SRP54, whereas the C‐terminal extension does not affect RNA binding. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that these mutations occur in the cpSRP54 homologues of higher plants but not in most algae.
Functional characterisation of a putative rhamnogalacturonan II specific xylosyltransferase
Authors: Egelund Jack , Damager Iben , Faber Kirsten , Olsen Carl-Erik , Ulvskov Peter , Petersen Bent Larsen
Published: August 2008

An Arabidopsis thaliana gene, At1g56550, was expressed in Pichia pastoris and the recombinant protein was shown to catalyse transfer of d‐xylose from UDP‐α‐d‐xylose onto methyl α‐l‐fucoside. The product formed was shown by 1D and 2D 1H NMR spectroscopy to be Me α‐d‐Xyl‐(1,3)‐α‐l‐Fuc, which is identical to the proposed target structure in the A‐chain of rhamnogalacturonan II. Chemically synthesized methyl l‐fucosides derivatized by methyl groups on either the 2‐, 3‐ or 4 position were tested as acceptor substrates but only methyl 4‐O‐methyl‐α‐l‐fucopyranoside acted as an acceptor, although to a lesser extent than methyl α‐l‐fucoside. At1g56550 is suggested to encode a rhamnogalacturonan II specific xylosyltransferase.
A TOPOLOGISED MEASURE HOMOLOGY
Authors: BERLANGA RICARDO
Published: August 2008

A homology theory based on measures, first mentioned by Thurston, is naturally defined here as a functor into the category of locally convex topological vector spaces. It is proved that the first homology space is Hausdorff.
Whither the Arctic? Conflict or cooperation in the circumpolar north
Authors: Young Oran R.
Published: August 2008

Biophysical changes underway in the Arctic have stirred a remarkable surge of interest and concern in many quarters, including non-Arctic states and non-state actors. This article explores the implications of these developments for the pursuit of governance in the region. Many reactions to this situation are more alarmist than alarming. But recent developments do provide an excellent opportunity to reassess the effectiveness of existing arrangements and to enquire about the need for new forms of governance. The article does not support the claims of those who argue that a comprehensive, legally binding Arctic treaty (or even an Arctic Charter) is required at this time. Rather, it argues the case for a somewhat messier but more effective tripartite governance complex featuring an agreement to set aside without extinguishing claims to extended continental shelf jurisdiction on the part of the littoral states, an effort to adjust the character of the Arctic Council to meet emerging needs in the Arctic, and a push to devise issue-specific regulative regimes to address concerns involving shipping, fishing, and off-shore oil and gas development.
Monteverdi's mimetic art: L'incoronazione di Poppea
Authors: Rosand Ellen
Published: August 2008

Claudio Monteverdi may not have been ‘the creator of modern music’, as Leo Schrade has styled him, but he did play the leading role in the creation of opera. Lacking illustrious predecessors and pre-existent generic prescriptions, he moved confidently as an innovator: the first great opera composer. But he was also a madrigalist, the last great contributor to a genre that was clearly on the wane by 1600. Here he was a follower. Numerous composers had defined and developed the madrigal before him: Rore, Marenzio, Wert, Luzzaschi, Pallavicino. His contribution lay not in creating the genre but in stretching it to its limits.
Constructions of gender in Monteverdi's dramatic music
Authors: McClary Susan
Published: August 2008

One of the great accomplishments of seventeenth-century culture was the development of a vocabulary by means of which dramatic characters and actions could be delineated in music. The techniques for emotional and rhetorical inflection we now take for granted are not, in fact, natural or universal: they were deliberately formulated during this period for the purposes of music theatre. Monteverdi's descriptions of how he invented the semiotics of madness forLa finta pazza Licorior of war for theCombattimento di Tancredi e Clorindareveal how very self-consciously he designed methods for ‘representing’ affective states.
The buffa aria in Mozart's Vienna
Authors: Platoff John
Published: August 2008

Like the modern romance novel or murder mystery, late-eighteenth-century opera buffa is a thoroughly conventional genre. Standard plot devices, stock characters and vocal types, and particular kinds of musical number appear again and again, and any reasonably comprehensive understanding of the genre requires that we recognise these familiar patterns in text and music. This is especially important in the case of Mozart, who lies at the heart of our interest in the repertory: while his operas are routinely praised for their uniqueness and originality, we can evaluate these claims only by addressing the formal and stylistic procedures that served as his immediate context.
‘La vittima è Idamante’: Did Mozart have a motive?
Authors: Rushton Julian
Published: August 2008

The literature on Mozart's Idomeneo contains many references to short motives, initially presented in the overture and recurring at critical points during the opera itself. While this practice has not been shown to be widespread in eighteenth-century opera seria, earlier instances may be found in operas known to Mozart and from whose example he clearly profited, notably Gluck's Alceste and Iphigénie en Aulide. The tendency to orchestrate most or all of the recitative and to elide aria cadences contributes to increasing continuity of musical thought in all these works; the denouements of both Gluck's Iphigénie operas become nearly symphonic.
Nuremberg Trial: Is there anti-semitism inDie Meistersinger?
Authors: Millington Barry
Published: August 2008

From time to time the question has been raised: ‘Is the character of Beckmesser an embodiment of Wagner's notorious anti-semitism?’ Theodor Adorno, who stated with reference to Beckmesser, Alberich and Mime that ‘all the rejects of Wagner's works are caricatures of Jews’, is frequently invoked, but the question is generally brushed aside, or answered summarily in the negative. Yet neither Adorno nor, to my knowledge, anyone else has examined the question in the depth it deserves. A fuller investigation of the evidence leads, I submit, to the conclusions that anti-semitism is woven into the ideological fabric ofDie Meister-singer, and that the representation of Beckmesser incorporates unmistakable antisemitic characteristics. If this is indeed the case, then the implications for our understanding of the opera are profound.
‘Poésie lyrique’ and ‘Chorégraphie’ at the Opéra in the July Monarchy
Authors: Smith Marian
Published: August 2008

Flanking the legend ‘Académie Nationale de Musique’ over the grand entrance to the Palais Garnier are the words ‘Chorégraphie’ on the left and ‘Poésie lyrique’ on the right, large enough to be legible from some distance. Ballet and opera were represented equally on the Académie's stage as well as on its façade: works of both kinds were created and performed in abundance there for much of the nineteenth century. Moreover, their interaction went beyond simply sharing the stage, and dated back to a time long before the Palais Garnier was built.
Scylla et Glaucus:A case study
Authors: Zaslaw Neal
Published: August 2008

The policies of centralisation pursued by Louis XIV and his ministers affected most aspects of French life and culture. From 1645 opera had been imported from Italy by Louis' minister Cardinal Mazarin, originally out of political motives. When it had become ‘naturalised’, assuming its characteristic French guise under the despotic direction of Lully's Académie Royale de Musique, it continued to serve political purposes. In return for a monopoly on theatre music, Lully saw to it that opera served not only as entertainment for the nobility and bourgeoisie, but also as propaganda for the state and for the divine right of the King. An incidental effect of these policies was that the number of French operas produced was small compared to the number in Italy. This was due to the monopoly; to the centralisation, which meant that with few exceptions ‘French’ opera really meant ‘Parisian’ opera; and to the lavishness of the productions, which made frequent changes of repertory impractical even with subsidies. Each première was an event of note, chronicled in official and unofficial sources – the archival documents,mémoires, correspondence, periodicals, pamphlets and books of the day. This profusion of documentation frequently makes possible a degree of precision about the history of early French opera that can rarely be attained for other national schools.
‘Entoiling the falconet’: Russian musical orientalism in context
Authors: Taruskin Richard
Published: August 2008

This essay originated as a contribution to a symposium organised by the Dallas Opera and Southern Methodist University around the Opera's production of Boro-din's Prince Igor in November 1990. Since many Soviet guests had been invited, the poster and programme book were printed in English and Russian side by side. I found that the word ‘orientalism’ in my title had become tema vostoka – ‘the Eastern theme’ – in translation, even though orientalizm, or more commonly, orientalistika, are perfectly good Russian words (well, Russian words, anyway). It was a sensible precaution. ‘The Eastern theme’ is neutral: from a paper with that phrase in the title one expects inventories, taxonomies, identification of sources, stylistic analysis. ‘Orientalism’ is charged. From a paper with that word in the title one expects semiotics, ideological critique, polemic, perhaps indictment. The translator was quite right to err on the side of innocuousness, rather than saddle me with a viewpoint I might not wish or manage to live up to.