bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Interactive Technique for Cartographic Feature Extraction from Aerial and Satellite Image Sensors
Authors: Kicherer Stefan , Malpica Jose , Alonso Maria
Published: August 2008

In this paper, an interactive technique for extracting cartographic features from aerial and spatial images is presented. The method is essentially an interactive method of image region segmentation based on pixel grey level and texture information. The underlying segmentation method is seeded region growing. The criterion for growing regions is based on both texture and grey level, where texture is quantified using cooccurrence matrices. The Kullback distance is utilised with co-occurrence matrices in order to describe the image texture, then the Theory of Evidence is applied to merge the information coming from texture and grey level image from the RGB bands. Several results from aerial and spatial images that support the technique are presented
Ship Detection in SAR Image Based on the Alpha-stable Distribution
Authors: Wang Changcheng , Liao Mingsheng , Li Xiaofeng
Published: August 2008

This paper describes an improved Constant False Alarm Rate (CFAR) ship detection algorithm in spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image based on Alphastable distribution model. Typically, the CFAR algorithm uses the Gaussian distribution model to describe statistical characteristics of a SAR image background clutter. However, the Gaussian distribution is only valid for multilook SAR images when several radar looks are averaged. As sea clutter in SAR images shows spiky or heavy-tailed characteristics, the Gaussian distribution often fails to describe background sea clutter. In this study, we replace the Gaussian distribution with the Alpha-stable distribution, which is widely used in impulsive or spiky signal processing, to describe the background sea clutter in SAR images. In our proposed algorithm, an initial step for detecting possible ship targets is employed. Then, similar to the typical two-parameter CFAR algorithm, a local process is applied to the pixel identified as possible target. A RADARSAT-1 image is used to validate this Alpha-stable distribution based algorithm. Meanwhile, known ship location data during the time of RADARSAT-1 SAR image acquisition is used to validate ship detection results. Validation results show improvements of the new CFAR algorithm based on the Alpha-stable distribution over the CFAR algorithm based on the Gaussian distribution.
Chemical Sensors Based on Cyclodextrin Derivatives
Authors: Ogoshi Tomoki , Harada Akira
Published: August 2008

This review focuses on chemical sensors based on cyclodextrin (CD) derivatives. This has been a field of classical interest, and is now of current interest for numerous scientists. First, typical chemical sensors using chromophore appended CDs are mentioned. Various “turn-off” and “turn-on” fluorescent chemical sensors, in which fluorescence intensity was decreased or increased by complexation with guest molecules, respectively, were synthesized. Dye modified CDs and photoactive metal ion-ligand complex appended CDs, metallocyclodextrins, were also applied for chemical sensors. Furthermore, recent novel approaches to chemical sensing systems using supramolecular structures such as CD dimers, trimers and cooperative binding systems of CDs with the other macrocycle [2]rotaxane and supramolecular polymers consisting of CD units are mentioned. New chemical sensors using hybrids of CDs with p-conjugated polymers, peptides, DNA, nanocarbons and nanoparticles are also described in this review.
Free Base Porphyrins as Ionophores for Heavy Metal Sensors
Authors: Vlascici Dana , Fagadar-Cosma Eugenia , Pica Elena Maria , Cosma Viorica , Bizerea Otilia , Mihailescu Gheorghe , Olenic Liliana
Published: August 2008

Two functionalized porphyrins: 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl) porphyrin (A) and 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(3-hydroxyphenyl)porphyrin (B) obtained and characterized by us were used as ionophores (I) for preparing PVC-based membrane sensors selective to Ag+, Pb2+ and Cu2+. The membranes were prepared using three different plasticizers: (bis(2-ethylhexyl)sebacate (DOS), dioctylphtalate (DOP), o-nitrophenyl octyl ether (NPOE) and potassium tetrakis(4-chlorophenyl)borate (KTClPB) as additive. The functional parameters (linear concentration range, slope and selectivity) of the sensors with membrane composition: (I:PVC:KTClPB:Plasticizer) in different ratios were investigated. The best results were obtained for the membranes in the ratio I:PVC:KTClPB:Plasticizer 10:165:5:330. The influence of pH on the sensors response was studied. The sensors were used for a period of four months and their utility has been tested on synthetic and real samples.
Surface Temperature Mapping of the University of Northern Iowa Campus Using High Resolution Thermal Infrared Aerial Imageries
Authors: Savelyev Alexander , Sugumaran Ramanathan
Published: August 2008

The goal of this project was to map the surface temperature of the University of Northern Iowa campus using high-resolution thermal infrared aerial imageries. A thermal camera with a spectral bandwidth of 3.0-5.0 μm was flown at the average altitude of 600 m, achieving ground resolution of 29 cm. Ground control data was used to construct the pixelto-temperature conversion model, which was later used to produce temperature maps of the entire campus and also for validation of the model. The temperature map then was used to assess the building rooftop conditions and steam line faults in the study area. Assessment of the temperature map revealed a number of building structures that may be subject to insulation improvement due to their high surface temperatures leaks. Several hot spots were also identified on the campus for steam pipelines faults. High-resolution thermal infrared imagery proved highly effective tool for precise heat anomaly detection on the campus, and it can be used by university facility services for effective future maintenance of buildings and grounds.
The Improved Dual-view Field Goniometer System FIGOS
Authors: Schopfer Jürg , Dangel Stefan , Kneubühler Mathias , Itten Klaus I.
Published: August 2008

In spectrodirectional Remote Sensing (RS) the Earth’s surface reflectance characteristics are studied by means of their angular dimensions. Almost all natural surfaces exhibit an individual anisotropic reflectance behaviour due to the contrast between the optical properties of surface elements and background and the geometric surface properties of the observed scene. The underlying concept, which describes the reflectance characteristic of a specific surface area, is called the bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF). BRDF knowledge is essential for both correction of directional effects in RS data and quantitative retrieval of surface parameters. Ground-based spectrodirectional measurements are usually performed with goniometer systems. An accurate retrieval of the bidirectional reflectance factors (BRF) from field goniometer measurements requires hyperspectral knowledge of the angular distribution of the reflected and the incident radiation. However, prior to the study at hand, no operational goniometer system was able to fulfill this requirement. This study presents the first dual-view field goniometer system, which is able to simultaneously collect both the reflected and the incident radiation at high angular and spectral resolution and, thus, providing the necessary spectrodirectional datasets to accurately retrieve the surface specific BRF. Furthermore, the angular distribution of the incoming diffuse radiation is characterized for various atmospheric conditions and the BRF retrieval is performed for an artificial target and compared to laboratory spectrodirectional measurement results obtained with the same goniometer system. Suggestions for further improving goniometer systems are given and the need for intercalibration of various goniometers as well as for standardizing spectrodirectional measurements is expressed.
Critical Evaluation of Acetylcholine Determination in Rat Brain Microdialysates using Ion-Pair Liquid Chromatography with Amperometric Detection
Authors: De Bundel Dimitri , Sarre Sophie , Van Eeckhaut Ann , Smolders Ilse , Michotte Yvette
Published: August 2008

Liquid chromatography with amperometric detection remains the most widely used method for acetylcholine quantification in microdialysis samples. Separation of acetylcholine from choline and other matrix components on a microbore chromatographic column (1 mm internal diameter), conversion of acetylcholine in an immobilized enzyme reactor and detection of the produced hydrogen peroxide on a horseradish peroxidase redox polymer coated glassy carbon electrode, achieves sufficient sensitivity for acetylcholine quantification in rat brain microdialysates. However, a thourough validation within the concentration range required for this application has not been carried out before. Furthermore, a rapid degradation of the chromatographic columns and enzyme systems have been reported. In the present study an ion-pair liquid chromatography assay with amperometric detection was validated and its long-term stability evaluated. Working at pH 6.5 dramatically increased chromatographic stability without a loss in sensitivity compared to higher pH values. The lower limit of quantification of the method was 0.3 nM. At this concentration the repeatability was 15.7%, the inter-day precision 8.7% and the accuracy 103.6%. The chromatographic column was stable over 4 months, the immobilized enzyme reactor up to 2-3 months and the enzyme coating of the amperometric detector up to 1-2 months. The concentration of acetylcholine in 30 μl microdialysates obtained under basal conditions from the hippocampus of freely moving rats was 0.40 ± 0.12 nM (mean ± SD, n = 30). The present method is therefore suitable for acetylcholine determination in rat brain microdialysates.
Surface Energy Balance Based Evapotranspiration Mapping in the Texas High Plains
Authors: Gowda Prasanna H. , Chávez José L. , Howell Terry A. , Marek Thomas H. , New Leon L.
Published: August 2008

Agriculture on the Texas High Plains (THP) uses approximately 89% of groundwater withdrawals from the Ogallala Aquifer. Consequently, groundwater levels are declining faster than the recharge rate. Therefore, efficient agricultural water use is essential for economic viability and sustainability of the THP. Accurate regional evapotranspiration (ET) maps would provide valuable information on actual crop water use. In this study, METRIC (Mapping Evapotranspiration at High Resolution using Internalized Calibration), a remote sensing based ET algorithm, was evaluated for mapping ET in the THP. Two Landsat 5 Thematic Mapper images acquired on 27 June (DOY 178) and 29 July (DOY 210) 2005 were used for this purpose. The performance of the ET model was evaluated by comparing the predicted daily ET with values derived from soil moisture budget at four commercial agricultural fields. Daily ET estimates resulted with a prediction error of 12.7±8.1% (mean bias error ± root mean square error) on DOY 178 and -4.7±9.4% on DOY 210 when compared with ET derived from measured soil moisture through the soil water balance. These results are good considering the prevailing advective conditions in the THP. METRIC have the potential to be used for mapping regional ET in the THP region. However, more evaluation is needed under different agroclimatological conditions.
Mesoporous Silicate Materials in Sensing
Authors: Melde Brian J. , Johnson Brandy J. , Charles Paul T.
Published: August 2008

Mesoporous silicas, especially those exhibiting ordered pore systems and uniform pore diameters, have shown great potential for sensing applications in recent years. Morphological control grants them versatility in the method of deployment whether as bulk powders, monoliths, thin films, or embedded in coatings. High surface areas and pore sizes greater than 2 nm make them effective as adsorbent coatings for humidity sensors. The pore networks also provide the potential for immobilization of enzymes within the materials. Functionalization of materials by silane grafting or through cocondensation of silicate precursors can be used to provide mesoporous materials with a variety of fluorescent probes as well as surface properties that aid in selective detection of specific analytes. This review will illustrate how mesoporous silicas have been applied to sensing changes in relative humidity, changes in pH, metal cations, toxic industrial compounds, volatile organic compounds, small molecules and ions, nitroenergetic compounds, and biologically relevant molecules.
Cytomegalovirus infection after liver transplantation: Current concepts and challenges
Authors: Razonable Raymund Rabe
Published: August 2008

Laparoscopic surgery is the main treatment method for patients with gastrointestinal malignant tumors. Although laparoscopic surgery is minimally invasive, its tool stimulation and pneumoperitoneum pressure often cause strong stress reactions in patients. On the other hand, gastrointestinal surgery can cause stronger pain in patients, compared to other surgeries. Transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) can effectively inhibit the transmission of nerve impulses caused by surgical stimulation, alleviate patient pain, and thus alleviate stress reactions. Remazolam is an acting, safe, and effective sedative, which has little effect on hemodynamics and is suitable for most patients. TAPB combined with remazolam can reduce the dosage of total anesthetic drugs, reduce adverse reactions, reduce stress reactions, and facilitate the rapid postoperative recovery of patients.
Discrete Element Method Simulation of Effect of Aggregate Shape on Fragmentation of Particle Composite
Authors: Khanal M. , Raghuramakrishnan R. , Tomas J.
Published: August 2008

How primary particles affect the fragmentation of particle composites using discrete element method simulation is described. Disk‐shaped composite particles consisting of large aggregate particles embedded in a matrix of smaller sand particles have been impacted against a solid surface at range of collision velocities. The results have been analyzed to determine whether the shapes of the aggregates in the mixture have an influence on the fragmentation of particle composites. It has been identified that the fracture depends on the aggregate shapes of the particle composites. Liberation degrees and particle size distributions have also been found to be controlled by the shape of the primary particles. Particle shapes have a remarkable influence on the fragmentation behavior of the specimen, especially at lower velocities.
Modeling of Two‐Phase Flashing Flow of Multicomponent Mixtures in Large Diameter Pipes
Authors: Qin Y. , Han X. , Wang H.‐X. , Fang Z.‐L. , Cui X.‐T. , Li X.‐G.
Published: August 2008

A two‐phase flashing flow model is developed to predict the distributions of pressure, temperature, velocity and evaporation rate in a transfer line, which is a typical example of a two‐phase flow pipe in the petrochemical industry. The model is proposed based on the pressure drop model and the multi‐stage flash model. The results indicate that pressure drop, temperature drop, and change of evaporation rate mainly occur in the transition section and the junction site of the transfer line. The predictions of the model have been tested with reliable field data and the good agreement obtained may lead to a better understanding of the two‐phase flashing flow phenomenon, as well as demonstrating the feasibility of applying the model into the design and optimization of pipelines.
Char and Coke Formation as Unwanted Side Reaction of the Hydrothermal Biomass Gasification
Authors: Karayıldırım T. , Sınağ A. , Kruse A.
Published: August 2008

The hydrothermal biomass gasification is a promising technology to produce hydrogen and/or methane from wet biomass with a water content of ≥ 80 % (g/g). In the process, the coke formation usually is very low, but already low amounts may cause problems like, e.g., fouling in the heat exchanger. To learn more about the product formation, the results of the hydrothermal treatment (at 400, 500, 600 °C and 1 h) of different biomass feedstocks (artichoke stalk, pinecone, sawdust, and cellulose as model biomass) in a microreactor are compared. The gas composition and the total organic carbon content of the aqueous phase were determined after reaction. The gas formation rises with increasing temperature. The formation of carbon deposits and their characterization has been investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The variation of the solid morphology during the hydrothermal conversion is discussed based on chemical pathways occurring during hydrothermal biomass degradation.
Connexin43 is involved in the effect of endothelin‐1 on astrocyte proliferation and glucose uptake
Authors: Herrero‐González Sandra , Valle‐Casuso José Carlos , Sánchez‐Alvarez Rosa , Giaume Christian , Medina José M. , Tabernero Arantxa
Published: August 2008

In previous studies, we showed that endothelin‐1 increased astrocyte proliferation and glucose uptake. These effects were similar to those observed with other gap junction inhibitors, such as carbenoxolone (CBX). Because 24‐h treatment with endothelin‐1 or CBX downregulates the expression of connexin43, the main protein forming astrocytic gap junctions, which can also be involved in proliferation, in this study, we addressed the possible role of connexin43 in the effects of endothelin‐1. To do so, connexin43 was silenced in astrocytes by siRNA. The knock down of connexin43 increased the rate of glucose uptake, characterized by the upregulation of GLUT‐1 and type I hexokinase. Neither endothelin‐1 nor CBX were able to further increase the rate of glucose uptake in connexin43‐silenced astrocytes. In agreement, no effects of endothelin‐1 and CBX on GLUT‐1 and type I hexokinase were observed in connexin‐43 silenced astrocytes or in astrocytes from connexin43 knock‐out (KO) mice. Our previous studies suggested a close relationship between glucose uptake and astrocyte proliferation. Consistent with this, connexin43‐silenced astrocytes exhibited an increase in Ki‐67, a marker of proliferation. The effects of ET‐1 on retinoblastoma phosphorylation on Ser780 and on the upregulation of cyclins D1 and D3 were affected by the levels of connexin43. In conclusion, our results indicate that connexin43 participates in the effects of endothelin‐1 on glucose uptake and proliferation in astrocytes. Interestingly, although the rate of growth in connexin43 KO astrocytes has been reported to be reduced, we observed that an acute reduction in connexin43 by siRNA increased proliferation and glucose uptake. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Protective role of withaferin‐A on 7,12‐dimethylbenz(a)anthracene‐induced genotoxicity in bone marrow of Syrian golden hamsters
Authors: Panjamurthy K. , Manoharan S. , Menon Venugopal P. , Nirmal Madhavan R. , Senthil N.
Published: August 2008

The present study has investigated the antigenotoxic effect of withaferin‐A, a steroidal lactone obtained from the roots and leaves of Withania somnifera, in 7,12‐dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)‐induced genotoxicity. Measurement of the frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MnPCEs) and chromosomal aberrations is used as cytogenetic endpoints. A single intraperitoneal injection of DMBA (30 mg/kg b.w.) to golden Syrian hamsters resulted in marked elevation in the frequency of MnPCEs and aberrations in the chromosomal structure. Hamsters pretreated with withaferin‐A intraperitonealy 2 h before the injection of DMBA, significantly reduced the frequency of MnPCEs and chromosomal aberrations such as chromosomal break, gap, minute, and fragment. Our results thus demonstrated the antigenotoxic effect of withaferin‐A in DMBA‐induced genotoxicity in the bone marrow of golden Syrian hamsters. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 22:251–258, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.20235
A combined process of biocatalysis and cell activity regeneration for the asymmetric reduction of 3‐oxo ester with immobilized baker's yeast
Authors: Ni Hong‐Liang , Guan Yi‐Xin , Yao Shan‐Jing
Published: August 2008

BACKGROUND: A process combining biocatalytic reaction and cell activity regeneration was designed for the asymmetric reduction of 3‐oxo ester. By immobilizing resting baker's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) in calcium alginate beads, the high yield and long catalyst life were achieved in the aqueous phase in this process with methyl acetoacetate (MAA) as the model substrate.

RESULTS: Two combined fixed‐bed reactors were able to work steadily for at least 16 days. The activity of immobilized baker's yeast could be retained by re‐culture with culture medium regularly. The re‐culture time for bead reactivation was optimized to be 30 h. High yield (about 80%) and high enantiomeric excess (>95%) were maintained after 12 batches of asymmetric reduction. The immobilized beads retained their original shapes even after a long reaction time in the fixed‐bed reactor, while the beads broke after reaction of five batches in a flask.

CONCLUSION: The combined process of biocatalysis and cell activity regeneration was successfully achieved in the asymmetric reduction and decreased the breakage of beads as well as increased the efficiency of catalyst. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
What contribution can insights from the complexity sciences make to the theory and practice of development management?
Authors: Mowles Chris , Stacey Ralph , Griffin Douglas
Published: August 2008

This paper offers a critique of existing ways of understanding management practice in International Non‐Government Organisations (INGOs) and compares and contrasts these with insights drawn from the complexity sciences. The authors put forward a more radical interpretation of complexity theory as it might be taken up in organisations rather than suggesting that it can be accommodated with existing theories based in systems thinking. They suggest that understanding the process of organising as contingent, paradoxical and experiential could profoundly refocus the attention of managers and practitioners alike and lead to an intensifying of practice as more consciously political. In being more open to others, including their partners and beneficiaries, staff in INGOs may be more ready to change themselves and their ideas. At the same time, the authors point out the existing dynamics of current practice and the way it perpetuates itself, no matter how problematic. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Studies on Taxol® biosynthesis. Preparation and tritium labeling of biosynthetic intermediates by deoxygenation of a taxadiene tetra‐acetate obtained from Japanese yew
Authors: Horiguchi Tohru , Rithner Christopher D. , Croteau Rodney , Williams Robert M.
Published: August 2008

Taxa‐4(20),11(12)‐diene‐5α‐acetate 5 and taxa‐4(20),11(12)‐diene‐5α‐acetate, 10β‐ol 6, have been identified as early stage intermediates involved in the biosynthesis of Taxol® (paclitaxel). Tritium‐labeled 5 and 6 were successfully prepared by Barton deoxygenation using tri‐n‐butyltintritiide of the C‐14‐hydroxyl group of a taxoid obtained from Japanese yew. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Labelling of small biomolecules using novel technetium‐99m cores: IAEA Technical Report Series 459 Book Review and important research outputs of a coordinated research project
Authors: Pillai M.R.A. , Duatti A.
Published: August 2008

The International Atomic Energy Agency conducted a Coordinated Research Project on ‘Labelling of Small Biomolecules Using Novel Technetium‐99m Cores’ during 2003–2006. Thirteen research groups from Asia, Europe, North and South America participated in this program. The objective of the CRP was to generate know‐how and expertise to develop high specific activity 99mTc labelled biomolecules using the relatively new chemistries introduced in the recent past. The Technical Report Series 459, a fully edited publication of the IAEA, describes the work done by the different participating laboratories. This paper is a review of the publication, highlighting the important outputs from the CRP.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Technical Report Series 459 on ‘Labelling of Small Biomolecules Using Novel Technetium‐99m Cores’ is the outcome of an IAEA Coordinated Research Project (CRP) held during 2003–2006. 1 The CRP is a mechanism in which scientists from different member states (MS) come together to conduct research activity in a well‐defined area. Through the CRP IAEA aims at effectively transferring the technologies from developed MS to developing MS. Thirteen research groups actively engaged in the development of 99mTc radiopharmaceuticals participated in the above CRP (Table 1).

The publication describes the work done by the different participating laboratories. Part I of the book, which is corporate authored, gives the background, objectives and important research outputs arising out of this CRP. Subsequent chapters describe the accomplishments in each participating laboratories. These chapters are written in the form of research papers as per the IAEA format. Following sections give the information about the CRP and the work reported in the book. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Syntheses of AZ12320927 labeled with H‐3, C‐14, and H‐2
Authors: Elmore Charles S. , Powell Mark E. , Heys J. Richard
Published: August 2008

In support of a program to develop a treatment for depression, three isotopically labeled forms of the 5‐HT1B antagonist AZ12320927 were synthesized. A tritium labeled version was synthesized for autoradiography using Ir‐catalyzed hydrogen–tritium exchange. A C‐14 labeled version was prepared for use in metabolism studies in four‐steps from [u‐14C]p‐nitrophenol. A stable isotope labeled version was synthesized for use as an internal standard for LC/MS/MS quantitation in two steps from chromenone 1. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Potassium channels are involved in zinc‐induced apoptosis in MES23.5 cells
Authors: Shi Limin , Song Ning , Jiang Hong , Wang Jun , Ma Zegang , Xie Junxia
Published: August 2008

There is evidence that zinc may be involved in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease by an apoptotic pathway. However, the mechanisms underlying zinc‐induced apoptosis are unknown. Previous studies showed that 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA)‐enhanced potassium channels are involved in apoptosis of dopaminergic neurons. Our study was designed to test whether zinc‐induced apoptosis was mediated by potassium channels. First we demonstrated cell apoptosis with zinc treatment by Hoechst staining assay. The results showed that 13.38% ± 0.6% of MES23.5 cells were apoptotic after 24 hr of incubation with 60 μM zinc sulfate. Then we observed that the tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) protein expression and the dopamine content decreased, as detected by Western blots and high‐performance liquid chromatography‐electrochemical detection (HPLC‐ECD). We further elucidated the mechanism of cell apoptosis by using whole‐cell patch clamp recording. The data demonstrated that MES23.5 cells exhibited a tetraethylammonium (TEA)‐sensitive outward K+ current with delayed rectifier characteristics. Increases of K+ current density were recorded following the treatment with 60 μM zinc for 4–8 hr. After incubation with 20 mM TEA, the zinc‐induced enhancement of K+ currents was fully blocked. Furthermore, incubation with TEA blocked zinc‐mediated caspase‐3 activation and cell apoptosis. These data suggest that zinc‐induced apoptosis of MES23.5 dopaminergic cells may due to the enhancement of TEA‐sensitive K+ channel activity. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Enhancement of biodegradability of lubricants by biodegradation accelerants
Authors: Chen Boshui , Fang Jianhua , Dong Ling , Sun Xia , Wang Jiu
Published: August 2008

The influence of a phosphor–nitrogen modified fatty acid, an amide fatty acid and tributyl phosphate, on biodegradation of a mineral oil and a high‐viscosity polyalphaolefin (PAO‐10) was studied. The results indicate that the phosphorous and nitrogenous compounds as biodegradation accelerants greatly promote biodegradation of unreadily biodegradable mineral oil and PAO‐10, due to the activation of enzymes in the body of microbes and the microbial growth of specific microbes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genome‐wide microRNA expression profiling in renal cell carcinoma: significant down‐regulation of miR‐141 and miR‐200c
Authors: Nakada C , Matsuura K , Tsukamoto Y , Tanigawa M , Yoshimoto T , Narimatsu T , Nguyen LT , Hijiya N , Uchida T , Sato F , Mimata H , Seto M , Moriyama M
Published: August 2008

We investigated expression profiles of microRNA (miRNA) in renal cell carcinoma [clear cell carcinomas (CCC) and chromophobe renal cell carcinomas (ChCC)] and in normal kidneys by using a miRNA microarray platform which covers a total of 470 human miRNAs (Sanger miRBase release 9.1). Unsupervised hierarchical cluster analysis revealed that CCC and ChCC were separable and that no subgroups were identified in CCCs. We found that 43 miRNAs were differentially expressed between CCC and normal kidney, of which 37 were significantly down‐regulated in CCC and the other 6 were up‐regulated. We also found that 57 miRNAs were differentially expressed between ChCC and normal kidney, of which 51 were significantly down‐regulated in ChCC and the other 6 were up‐regulated. Together, these observations indicate that expression of miRNAs tends to be down‐regulated in both CCC and ChCC compared with normal kidney. We observed that miR‐141 and miR‐200c were the most significantly down‐regulated miRNAs in CCCs. Indeed, in all cases of CCC analysed, both miR‐141 and miR‐200c were down‐regulated in comparison with normal kidney. Microarray data and quantitative RT–PCR showed that these two miRNAs were expressed concordantly. TargetScan algorithm revealed that ZFHX1B mRNA is a hypothetical target of both miR‐141 and ‐200c. We established by quantitative RT–PCR that, in CCCs in which miR‐141 and miR‐200c were down‐regulated, ZFHX1B, a transcriptional repressor for CDH1/E‐cadherin, tended to be up‐regulated. Furthermore, we found that overexpression of miR‐141 and miR‐200c caused down‐regulation of ZFHX1B and up‐regulation of E‐cadherin in two renal carcinoma cell lines, ACHN and 786‐O. On the basis of these findings, we suggest that down‐regulation of miR‐141 and miR‐200c in CCCs might be involved in suppression of CDH1/E‐cadherin transcription via up‐regulation of ZFHX1B. Copyright © 2008 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Femtosecond pump–probe spectroscopy on MoSI nanowires
Authors: Gadermaier Christoph , Kusar Primoz , Vengust Damjan , Mihailovic Dragan
Published: August 2008

We studied the electron relaxation of MoSI nanowire thin films via femtosecond pump–probe spectroscopy. The obtained spectra show a combination of absorption bleaching and a structured excited state absorption. A relaxation behaviour involving three characteristic time scales is found and discussed in the framework of previously published band‐structure calculations. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Ex‐situ synthesized nickel nanoparticles for multi‐walled carbon nanotube growth on high aspect ratio substrates
Authors: Ansaldo Alberto , George Chandramohan , Parodi Maria Teresa , Zitti Ermanno Di , Roth Siegmar , Ricci Davide
Published: August 2008

An ink made from ex‐situ synthesized nickel nanoparticles suspended in hexane is proposed as catalyst for the growth of carbon nanotubes onto high aspect ratio surfaces. The functionality of the ink as precursor has been at first checked onto standard flat surfaces such as silicon oxide onto a silicon wafer, were thick mats of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes have been obtained from ink droplets on the surface. Tungsten electrodes, made from thin wires that have been electrochemically etched to produce sharpened tips, have been treated by dip‐coating using the same nanoparticle ink. On such samples, multi‐walled carbon nanotubes have been grown directly on the metal surface with different surface coverage depending on the nickel nanoparticle concentration in the ink. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Dynamic percolation of carbon nanotube agglomerates in a polymer matrix: comparison of different model approaches
Authors: Alig I. , Skipa T. , Lellinger D. , Bierdel M. , Meyer H.
Published: August 2008

A series of samples with different content of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (0.5‐7.5 wt%) in polycarbonate was investigated by electrical conductivity measurements. During isothermal annealing of the as‐produced samples in the melt state an increase of the conductivity with time was observed. A similar conductivity recovery was found after a short shear deformation of the melt. The time‐dependent transition from insulating to conductive state is explained by dynamic formation of a conductive network of interconnected carbon nanotube agglomerates. The conductive networks were found to be stable after cooling the samples below their glass transition temperature. Comparison of the room temperature conductivity plotted vs. nanotube content for as‐produced and annealed samples shows a tremendous shift of the insulator‐conductor transition from above 5 wt% to about 0.75 wt%, respectively. For the description of the insulator‐conductor transition three different approaches were tested: classical percolation, general effective medium model (GEM), and Fournier equation. All three models fit the data satisfactory. Dynamic percolation was described by the GEM model coupled to a kinetic equation for CNT agglomeration. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The role of environmental effects on the optical transition energies and radial breathing mode frequency of single wall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Araujo P. T. , Jorio A.
Published: August 2008

In this paper we discuss the environmental effects on the radial breathing mode (RBM) spectra of Single Wall Carbon Nanotubes (SWNTs). We have shown that the environmental effect on the radial breathing mode frequencies can be explained by Van‐der‐Waals interactions. We here explore these interactions concerning its (n,m) dependence and curvature effects. Furthermore, most of the optical transition energies available in the literature (ELit.ii ) are downshiftedwith respect to the optical transition energies for super‐growth (S.G.) tubes (ES.G.ii ). The effect on transition energies can be understood considering the effect of the dielectric constant of the medium in the excitonic optical transition. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Oxidation induced shifts of Raman modes of carbon nanotubes
Authors: Spudat Christian , Meyer Carola , Schneider Claus M.
Published: August 2008

We investigate the influence of different oxidation methods on carbon nanotubes by Raman spectroscopy and HR‐TEM. Besides the known D/G ratio as a sign for amorphous carbon and defects, we observe an oxidation induced shift of the D* mode. As in previous experiments, the D* mode is found to be of higher intensity than the D mode and might be an alternative characterizing the quality and properties of individual CNTs. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electrical detection of coherent spin pair oscillations in ZnPc devices
Authors: Schaefer S. , Saremi S. , Fostiropoulos K. , Behrends J. , Lips K. , Harneit W.
Published: August 2008

We investigated the organic device ITO/ZnPc/Al with continuous wave and pulsed electrically detected magnetic resonance (cw‐EDMR/p‐EDMR). Resonant microwave absorption of the sample leads to current changes that can be explained by the theory of spin dependent recombination of localized spin carriers. The coherent spin motion during the microwave pulse shows two frequency components, which can be attributed to spin pairs with large and small Larmor separation. This is supported by the analysis of the cw‐EDMR spectrum, when taking into account exchange coupling between the spin pair partners. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Diameter selectivity of nanotube sidewall functionalization probed by optical spectroscopy
Authors: Pekker Áron , Wunderlich David , Kamarás Katalin , Hirsch Andreas
Published: August 2008

We present wide range optical spectroscopic measurements on sidewall functionalized HiPCO nanotubes. In the near infrared spectrum the peaks show fine structure where the separate peaks are related to nanotubes with different diameters. This gives us the opportunity to investigate the possible diameter dependence of the functionalization efficiency.We measured nanotube samples functionalized with butyl sidegroups in a wide frequency range, in the form of self‐supporting thin films. From the transmission spectrum optical conductivity was calculated by Kramers‐Kronig transformation and fitted by Drude – Lorentz oscillators. Comparing the results we show that the nanotubes with smaller diameters are affected more easily by functionalization. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
DoE in engine development
Authors: Röpke Karsten , von Essen Carsten
Published: August 2008

Stricter legal emission limits and increasing customer expectations lead to a growing number of controllable engine components and thus to a higher engine control complexity. For engine development, however, this means much greater time and effort is required to find the optimal combination of all selectable parameters. This trend can be observed in the field of Gasoline as well as for Diesel engines. At the same time, the development time from the first idea up to the introduction of a new production engine has become even shorter, and the costs have to be reduced. Since the number of measuring points required for complete operational‐test measurements rises exponentially with the number of input variables, it is quite obvious that full factorial measurements are no longer possible. Therefore the method ‘Design of Experiments’ (DoE) is widely accepted as a suitable tool in the automotive sector and among its suppliers. In the meantime the term ‘DoE’/‘DoE‐Process’ covers often also the measurement procedure and the modeling. Likewise, this method is broadly applied in the IAV (author's note: IAV is a German provider of engineering services to the automotive industry) during the advanced development stage up to the production engine applications. Whereas DoE is used mainly in the area of steady‐state applications recent research work shows a great potential also to optimize transient engine behavior. This paper will give an overview about the usage of statistical methods (mainly Design of Experiments) in the production engine calibration. ‘Engine calibration’ is the term for finding the optimal settings of the engine controller unit; optimal in terms of minimal emissions, minimal fuel consumption, good drivability and other brand specific goals. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Discrete mixtures of kernels for Kriging‐based optimization
Authors: Ginsbourger David , Helbert Céline , Carraro Laurent
Published: August 2008

Kriging‐based exploration strategies often rely on a single Kriging model whose parametric covariance kernel is selected a priori or on the basis of an initial data set. As choosing an unadapted kernel can radically harm the results, we wish to reduce the risk of model misspecification. Here, we consider the simultaneous use of multiple kernels within Kriging. We give the equations of discrete mixtures of Kriging and derive a multikernel version of the expected improvement optimization criterion. We finally provide an illustration of the efficient global optimization algorithm with mixed exponential and Gaussian kernels, where the parameters are estimated by maximum likelihood and the mixing weights are likelihood ratios. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Contributions on Thermal Behaviour and Crystal Chemistry of Anhydrous Phosphates. XXXXI [1]. Refinement of the Superstructure of FeTi4(PO4)6 – An Example of a Highly Ordered Member of the NASICON Structure Family
Authors: Schöneborn M. , Glaum R.
Published: August 2008

Single crystals of NASICON type phosphates Mn1.65TiIII/IV4(PO4)6 (black), FeTi4(PO4)6 (orange‐red) and CoTi4(PO4)6 (lavender colour) were grown by chemical vapour transport. The crystal structures of Mn1.65Ti4(PO4)6 and FeTi4(PO4)6 were refined from single crystal data. For the first time a superstructure for a NASICON type phosphate of general formula AIIBIV4(PO4)6 is observed and successfully refined (FeTi4(PO4)6 [data for Mn1.65Ti4(PO4)6 in brackets] rhombohedral, R32 [R3], Z = 6 (3), a = 8.5164(8) [8.5575(17)]Å, c = 41.852(6) [20.898(5)]Å, R1 = 0.053 [0.025], wR2 = 0.136 [0.061], 2598 [1261] independent reflections, 109 [59] variables). For FeTi4(PO4)6 a structure with a highly ordered cation distribution among the octahedral voids and crystal chemical reasonable interatomic distances (2.18 ≤ d(FeII‐O) ≤ 2.20) results. SXRD investigations on CoTi4(PO4)6 reveal also the presence of a superstructure along the NASICON c‐axis (c′= 5cNASICON). A new description of the NASICON structure based on group‐subgroup considerations shows its close relationship to the NiAs structure (3 x NiAs ⇒ 3 x AX ⇒ AB2(XO4)3 ⇒ □AB4(XO4)6).
Hydrogen‐bonding Stabilization in Energetic Perchlorate Salts: 5‐Amino‐1H‐tetrazolium Perchlorate and its Adduct with 5‐Amino‐1H‐tetrazole
Authors: Klapötke Thomas M. , Sabaté Carles Miró , Stierstorfer Jörg
Published: August 2008

Protonation of 5‐amino‐1H‐tetrazole (5‐At) with concentrated perchloric acid in water rendered 5‐amino‐1H‐tetrazolium perchlorate (1), in good yield and purity, or an adduct of 1 with 5‐At (2) depending on the experimental conditions used. 1 was more conveniently prepared by metathesis of 5‐amino‐1H‐tetrazolium bromide (3) with anhydrous silver perchlorate in alcoholic solution. Both perchlorate salts were characterized by NMR, Raman and IR spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, mass spectrometry and elemental analysis. Additionally, the crystal structures of 1 and 2 were determined by X‐ray diffraction techniques. Both salts crystallize in monoclinic cells in the space group P21/n (1: a = 5.3691(6), b = 7.8470(6), c = 15.2770(13) Å, β = 91.381(8)°, V = 643.45(10) Å3, Z = 4, ö = 1.915 g cm–3, R1 = 0.0403 (F > 4σ(F)), wR2 (all data) = 0.0977 and 2: a = 5.2615(1), b = 8.5311(2), c = 21.4870(4) Å, β = 96.127(1)°, V = 958.96(3) Å3, Z = 4, ö = 1.874 g cm–3, R1 = 0.0330 (F > 4σ(F)), wR2 (all data) = 0.0890). Lastly, the energetic properties of 1 and 2 were assessed. With an impact (i) and friction (f) sensitivitiy of 1.5 J and 8 N, respectively, and a sensitivity of 0.1 J against electrical discharge (ESD) perchlorate 1 is a powerful primary explosive, whereas the presence of a second tetrazole ring in 2 makes it a very stable compound (i = 22 J, f = 260 N, ESD = 0.4 J).
Dimanganese Bridging Borylene Complexes and their Reactions with Unsaturated Palladium(0) Complexes – Syntheses, Structures and Calculated Properties
Authors: Braunschweig Holger , Burzler Michael , Dewhurst Rian D. , Radacki Krzysztof , Seeler Fabian
Published: August 2008

The dimanganese bridging borylene complex [μ‐BMes {(η5‐C5H4Me)Mn(CO)2}2] was synthesized from Mes(Cl)BB(Cl)Mes and K[(η5‐C5H4Me)Mn(CO)2H] at low temperature, providing a small sample after manual separation of crystals, allowing a perfunctory spectroscopic analysis, but affording conclusive X‐ray crystallographic structural data. The trimetallic bridging borylene complex [(μ3‐BCl){{(η5‐C5H4Me)Mn(CO)2} {Pd(PCy3)}2}] was prepared by the addition of [Pd(PCy3)2] to a solution of [μ‐BCl{(η5‐C5H4Me)Mn(CO)2}2], affording pure crystals that were fully characterised including X‐ray crystallographic analysis. The structure is reconciled with detailed theoretical analysis for related model complexes, [(μ3‐BX){{(η5‐C5H5)Mn(CO)2}{Pd(PMe3)}2}] (X = Me, Cl).
The Crystal Structures of Trimethylphosphane supported Nickel‐ and Cobalt‐Methyl Complexes: Octahedral mer‐cis‐[CoIIII(CH3)2(PMe3)3] and Square Planar trans‐[NiIICl(CH3)(PMe3)2]
Authors: Beck Robert , Klein Hans‐Friedrich
Published: August 2008

Single crystals of octahedral mer‐cis‐[CoIIII(CH3)2(PMe3)3] (1) and square planar trans‐[NiIICl(CH3)(PMe3)2] (2), were obtained from solvent mixtures (methylcylohexane / pentane 1:1) and have been analyzed by X‐ray crystallography for the first time.
Ligand Exchange Processes on Solvated Beryllium Cations. IV [Be(H2O)2(imidazole‐based Chelate)]1)
Authors: Puchta Ralph , van Eldik Rudi
Published: August 2008

The water exchange reaction of [Be(H2O)2(1H‐imidazole‐4,5‐dicarboxylate)] and [Be(H2O)2(1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium‐4,5‐dicarboxylate)]+ in water was studied by DFT calculations (RB3LYP/6‐311+G**) and identified as an associative interchange mechanism. The activation barriers for [Be(H2O)2(1H‐imidazole‐4,5‐dicarboxylate)] (16.6 kcal/mol) and [Be(H2O)2(1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium‐4,5‐dicarboxylate)]+ (13.8 kcal/mol) are similar to the barrier for [Be(H2O)4)]2+ and independent of the overall charge. NICS calculations show no indication that the aromaticity of the imidazole ring is affected during the water exchange process.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Brucite Type Copper Hydroxide Squarate [Cu3(OH)2(C4O4)]·4H2O
Authors: Sharma Sanjeev , Jansen Martin
Published: August 2008

Herein we report synthesis of a new brucite type copper hydroxide squarate, Cu3(OH)2(C4O4)2·4H2O [P21/c, a = 5.6437(4) Å, b = 12.8357(9) Å, c = 9.1507(6) Å, β = 95.892(1)° and Z = 2] by hydrothermal method, and its characterization by single crystal diffraction analysis as well as by IR spectroscopy. The rather wide spread of Cu–O bond lengths, can be primarily rationalised by the Jahn‐Teller effect, and secondarily by the connectivities of the CuO6 octahedra.
Associations of individual and family eating patterns during childhood and early adolescence: a multicentre European study of associated eating disorder factors
Authors: Krug Isabel , Treasure Janet , Anderluh Marija , Bellodi Laura , Cellini Elena , Collier David , Bernardo Milena di , Granero Roser , Karwautz Andreas , Nacmias Benedetta , Penelo Eva , Ricca Valdo , Sorbi Sandro , Tchanturia Kate , Wagner Gudrun , Fernández-Aranda Fernando
Published: August 2008

The objective of this study was to examine whether there is an association between individual and family eating patterns during childhood and early adolescence and the likelihood of developing a subsequent eating disorder (ED). A total of 1664 participants took part in the study. The ED cases (n879) were referred for assessment and treatment to specialized ED units in five different European countries and were compared to a control group of healthy individuals (n785). Participants completed the Early Eating Environmental Subscale of the Cross-Cultural (Environmental) Questionnaire, a retrospective measure, which has been developed as part of a European multicentre trial in order to detect dimensions associated with ED in different countries. In the control group, also the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28), the semi-structured clinical interview (SCID-I) and the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) were used. Five individually Categorical Principal Components Analysis (CatPCA) procedures were adjusted, one for each theoretically expected factor. Logistic regression analyses indicated that the domains with the strongest effects from the CatPCA scores in the total sample were: food used as individualization, and control and rules about food. On the other hand, healthy eating was negatively related to a subsequent ED. When differences between countries were assessed, results indicated that the pattern of associated ED factors did vary between countries. There was very little difference in early eating behaviour on the subtypes of ED. These findings suggest that the fragmentation of meals within the family and an excessive importance given to food by the individual and the family are linked to the later development of an ED.