bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
100 W-class solar pumped laser for sustainable magnesium-hydrogen energy cycle
Authors: Yabe T. , Bagheri B. , Ohkubo T. , Uchida S. , Yoshida K. , Funatsu T. , Oishi T. , Daito K. , Ishioka M. , Yasunaga N. , Sato Y. , Baasandash C. , Okamoto Y. , Yanagitani K.
Published: October 2008

A solar pumped laser system with 7%–9% slope efficiencies has been developed. A Fresnel lens (2×2 m, f=2000 mm) is mounted on a two-axis sun tracker platform and focuses solar radiation toward laser cavity, which embraces Cr:Nd:yttrium aluminum garnet ceramic rod. The maximum emitted laser power is 80 W corresponding to maximum total area performance of 20 W/m2 for the Fresnel lens area. This solar laser system would be used as a section of power plant in a magnesium energy cycle as a cost-efficient solar energy converter. Using direct solar radiation into laser, 4.3% net conversion efficiency has been achieved.
Stabilization of the high-k tetragonal phase in HfO2: The influence of dopants and temperature fromab initiosimulations
Authors: Fischer Dominik , Kersch Alfred
Published: October 2008

By means of ab initio simulations we investigate the influence of dopants (Si, C, Ge, Sn, Ti, and Ce) on the transition from the monoclinic to the tetragonal phase in HfO2. In this study we focus first on the internal energy only, an approach common to ab initio simulations. In the second step we go beyond this approach in considering the Helmholtz free energy by additionally taking into account the contribution of the phonon density of states. Finally we discuss the change in transition temperature in the regime of thin films based on an empirical model. We find that both the contributions of the internal energy and phonons can be understood in terms of a model relying on the ionic radius of the dopants. Among the investigated dopants silicon is identified to promote the tetragonal phase most efficiently. The effectiveness of the various dopants is compared on the basis of a qualitative phase diagram for doping concentrations up to ∼12%.
Mechanical behavior of an electrodeposited nanostructured Cu with a mixture of nanocrystalline grains and nanoscale growth twins in submicrometer grains
Authors: Wang Guoyong , Jiang Zhonghao , Jiang Qing , Lian Jianshe
Published: October 2008

A nanostructured Cu with a mixture of nanocrystalline grains and nanoscale growth twins in submicrometer grains was synthesized by electrodeposition, and its mechanical behavior was tested on MTS-810 system at different strain rates and room temperature. It exhibited high yield stress of 506–717 MPa and good ductility of 6.2%–9.1%. Two stage strain rate sensitivity (m value), different fracture directions, and different morphologies of deformed and fracture surfaces at high strain rates and low strain rates were observed in the nanostructured Cu, which demonstrated the deformation mechanism transition from dislocation deformation at higher strain rates to both dislocation deformation dominated in larger grains and grain boundary diffusion and grain boundary sliding dominated in small grains at low strain rates.
Thin-film passivation by atomic layer deposition for organic field-effect transistors
Authors: Jeon Hayoung , Shin Kwonwoo , Yang Chanwoo , Park Chan Eon , Park Sang-Hee Ko
Published: October 2008

The thin-film passivation of organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) using AlOx films grown by atomic layer deposition was investigated. A high-quality AlOx passivation layer was deposited on OFETs at 90°C using trimethylaluminum and water. Despite the low deposition temperature, the 50-nm-thick AlOx passivation layers exhibited a low water-vapor-transmission-rate value of 0.0434g∕m2∕day. In addition, the mobility of the AlOx-passivated OFETs was only slightly below that of the unpassivated devices (i.e., within 9%). Unlike unpassivated devices, the electric performance of the passivated OFETs remained almost unchanged after 2months as a result of the excellent barrier properties of the passivation layer.
Normal spring constants of cantilever plates for different load distributions and static deflection with applications to atomic force microscopy
Authors: Hähner Georg
Published: October 2008

The normal spring constant describes how a cantilever plate deflects under an applied load. The application of microcantilevers in atomic force microscopy (AFM) and in other technologies employing such cantilevers as probes has sparked a significant interest in the knowledge and the determination of their spring constants. Common to most applications involving microcantilevers is the measurement of the deflection at their free end. In AFM a tip attached close to the end probes the forces on the cantilever and therefore the spring constant of a cantilever point-loaded at its free end is of high interest. In case the whole cantilever is used as a sensor, the deflection measured at the end depends on the load distribution over the entire surface area and other spring constant values are relevant. In this article, we derive analytical expressions for the normal spring constants of rectangular, triangular, picket, and V-shaped cantilevers under different load distributions. The expressions derived are for end-loaded, homogeneously loaded, and uniformly varying loaded cantilevers. From the analytical expressions the spring constants can be determined and converted into each other rendering the need to recalibrate unnecessary if the load distribution is changed.
Classical limit for semirelativistic Hartree systems
Authors: Aki Gonca L. , Markowich Peter A. , Sparber Christof
Published: October 2008

We consider the three-dimensional semirelativistic Hartree model for fast quantum mechanical particles moving in a self-consistent field. Under appropriate assumptions on the initial density matrix as a (fully) mixed quantum state we prove by using Wigner transformation techniques that its classical limit yields the well known relativistic Vlasov–Poisson system. The result holds for the case of attractive and repulsive mean-field interactions, with an additional size constraint in the attractive case.
The O(1)-Kepler problems
Authors: Meng Guowu
Published: October 2008

Let n≥2 be an integer. To each irreducible representation σ of O(1), an O(1)-Kepler problem in dimension n is constructed and analyzed. This system is super integrable and when n=2 it is equivalent to a generalized MICZ (McIntosh-Cisneros-Zwanziger)-Kepler problem in dimension 2. The dynamical symmetry group of this system is Sp˜(2n,R) with the Hilbert space of bound states H(σ) being the unitary highest weight representation of Sp˜(2n,R) with highest weight which occurs at the rightmost nontrivial reduction point in the Enright–Howe–Wallach classification diagram for the unitary highest weight modules. (Here |σ|=0 or 1 depending on whether σ is trivial or not.) Furthermore, it is shown that the correspondence σ↔H(σ) is the theta correspondence for dual pair (O(1),Sp(2n,R))⊆Sp(2n,R).
Polarimetric performance of a Laue lens gamma-ray CdZnTe focal plane prototype
Authors: Curado da Silva R. M. , Caroli E. , Stephen J. B. , Pisa A. , Auricchio N. , Del Sordo S. , Frontera F. , Honkimäki V. , Schiavone F. , Donati A. , Trindade A. M. F. , Ventura G.
Published: October 2008

A gamma-ray telescope mission concept [gamma ray imager (GRI)] based on Laue focusing techniques has been proposed in reply to the European Space Agency call for mission ideas within the framework of the next decade planning (Cosmic Vision 2015–2025). In order to optimize the design of a focal plane for this satellite mission, a CdZnTe detector prototype has been tested at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility under an ∼100% polarized gamma-ray beam. The spectroscopic, imaging, and timing performances were studied and in particular its potential as a polarimeter was evaluated. Polarization has been recognized as being a very important observational parameter in high energy astrophysics (>100 keV) and therefore this capability has been specifically included as part of the GRI mission proposal. The prototype detector tested was a 5 mm thick CdZnTe array with an 11×11 active pixel matrix (pixel area of 2.5×2.5 mm2). The detector was irradiated by a monochromatic linearly polarized beam with a spot diameter of about 0.5 mm over the energy range between 150 and 750 keV. Polarimetric Q factors of 0.35 and double event relative detection efficiency of 20% were obtained. Further measurements were performed with a copper Laue monochromator crystal placed between the beam and the detector prototype. In this configuration we have demonstrated that a polarized beam does not change its polarization level and direction after undergoing a small angle (<1°) Laue diffraction inside a crystal.
Molecular orientation and ordering in CoPc and FePc thin films grown on Au(001)-5×20
Authors: Molodtsova O. V. , Knupfer M. , Ossipyan Yu. A. , Aristov V. Yu.
Published: October 2008

Molecular orientation and ordering in thin films of the organic semiconductors cobalt- and iron-phthalocyanine (CoPc and FePc) grown in situ on a Au(001)-5×20 surface have been studied by a combination of low energy electron diffraction (LEED) and near-edge x-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy. The results indicate that the molecular planes of CoPc and FePc deposited at a substrate temperature of about 250 °C lie parallel to the Au(001)-5×20 surface. The LEED patterns and NEXAFS data demonstrate that the overlayers are highly ordered with a square unit cell of approximately 14.2×14.2 Å2 aligned along the ⟨110⟩ and ⟨1 1¯0⟩ axes of the Au(001) surface.
Reproducing kernel Hilbert C∗-modules and kernels associated with cocycles
Authors: Heo Jaeseong
Published: October 2008

In this paper we discuss reproducing kernels whose ranges are contained in a C∗-algebra or a Hilbert C∗-module. Using the construction of a reproducing Hilbert C∗-module associated with a reproducing kernel, we show how such a reproducing kernel can naturally be expressed in terms of operators on a Hilbert C∗-module using representations on Hilbert C∗-modules. We prove that for each positive definite G-kernel associated with a cocycle there is a representation associated with an operator-valued cocycle on the corresponding Hilbert C∗-module. Finally, some examples will be considered.
L p -uniform attractor for nonautonomous reaction-diffusion equations in unbounded domains
Authors: Yan Xingjie , Zhong Chengkui
Published: October 2008

The goal of this paper is to consider the asymptotic behavior of solutions of nonautonomous classical reaction-diffusion equations in unbounded domains with nonlinearity having a polynomial growth of arbitrary order. The existence and structure of a uniform attractor are obtained in the spaces L2(Rn) and Lp(Rn), respectively.
Portable light-emitting diode-based photometer with one-shot optochemical sensors for measurement in the field
Authors: Palma A. J. , Ortigosa J. M. , Lapresta-Fernández A. , Fernández-Ramos M. D. , Carvajal M. A. , Capitán-Vallvey L. F.
Published: October 2008

This report describes the electronics of a portable, low-cost, light-emitting diode (LED)-based photometer dedicated to one-shot optochemical sensors. Optical detection is made through a monolithic photodiode with an on-chip single-supply transimpedance amplifier that reduces some drawbacks such as leakage currents, interferences, and parasitic capacitances. The main instrument characteristics are its high light source stability and thermal correction. The former is obtained by means of the optical feedback from the LED polarization circuit, implementing a pseudo-two light beam scheme from a unique light source with a built-in beam splitter. The feedback loop has also been used to adjust the LED power in several ranges. Moreover, the low-thermal coefficient achieved (−90 ppm/°C) is compensated by thermal monitoring and calibration function compensation in the digital processing. The hand-held instrument directly gives the absorbance ratio used as the analytical parameter and the analyte concentration after programming the calibration function in the microcontroller. The application of this photometer for the determination of potassium and nitrate, using one-shot sensors with ionophore-based chemistries is also demonstrated, with a simple analytical methodology that shortens the analysis time, eliminating some calibrating solutions (HCl, NaOH, and buffer). Therefore, this compact instrument is suitable for real-time analyte determination and operation in the field.
Study of nanoprecipitates in a nickel-based superalloy using small-angle neutron scattering and transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Huang E-Wen , Liaw Peter K. , Porcar Lionel , Liu Yun , Liu Yee-Lang , Kai Ji-Jung , Chen Wei-Ren
Published: October 2008

Small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) experiments were performed on a Ni-based nanoprecipitate-strengthened superalloy. A theoretical model for SANS absolute intensity distribution I(Q) was presented to extract the structural properties. During the deformation process, a change in the morphology of precipitates was discovered. However, the average interprecipitate distance and the average volume of precipitates were found to remain invariant. This microstructural information resolved by SANS is in good agreement with the results obtained from the quantitative transmission-electron-microscopy image analysis.
Electron diffraction with ten nanometer beam size for strain analysis of nanodevices
Authors: Armigliato A. , Frabboni S. , Gazzadi G. C.
Published: October 2008

A method to perform nanobeam diffraction (NBD) in a transmission electron microscope with high spatial resolution and low convergence angle is proposed. It is based on the use of a properly fabricated condenser aperture of 1μm in diameter, which allows an electron beam about 10nm in size to be focused on the sample, with a convergence angle in the 0.1mrad range. Examples of NBD patterns taken in an untilted ⟨110⟩ cross section of a silicon device are shown. Their quality is adequate for spot position determination and hence to obtain, in principle, quantitative strain information.
Layered antiferromagnetism with high Neel temperature in the intermetallic compound Mn2Au
Authors: Khmelevskyi Sergii , Mohn Peter
Published: October 2008

On the basis of earlier experimental studies the intermetallic compound Mn2Au has been characterized as a nonmagnetically ordered material. Here we report the results of first-principles calculations based on local spin-density approximation that describes Mn2Au to have a narrow band ground state with rigid local moments on the Mn sites. Calculations of the interatomic exchange constants based on the magnetic force theorem and a Monte Carlo modeling of the resulting Heisenberg-like Hamiltonian predict a high Neel temperature of ∼1600 K. This temperature is considerably higher than for the other known high-temperature antiferromagnetic L10-type Mn based binary alloys used in magnetic storage applications.
Reflectivity of disordered silicon nanowires
Authors: Street R. A. , Qi P. , Lujan R. , Wong W. S.
Published: October 2008

Disordered silicon nanowire mats have high diffuse optical reflectivity, in striking contrast to the low reflectivity of orientationally ordered nanowires. The reflectivity decreases with increasing photon energy across the visible and near infrared spectrum due to absorption in the nanowires. A simple model is used to estimate that the incident photon interacts with up to 20 nanowires before being reflected. A thin coating of hydrogenated amorphous silicon enhances the nanowire absorption.
Efficient oxygen gettering in Si by coimplantation of hydrogen and helium
Authors: Ou Xin , Kögler Reinhard , Mücklich Arndt , Skorupa Wolfgang , Möller Wolfhard , Wang Xi , Gerlach Jürgen W. , Rauschenbach Bernd
Published: October 2008

Hydrogen preimplantation performed in addition to helium implantation efficiently shrinks the width of the gettering layer in Si and increases the empty volume fraction as well as the internal surface area per unit volume. The gettering efficiency for oxygen is significantly enhanced compared to the single helium implantation, and the helium implantation dose can be strongly reduced. The gas-filled bubble layer induced by the coimplantation of hydrogen and helium has the highest gettering efficiency for the oxygen accumulation. Direct evidence for oxygen gettering at the internal wall of the cavity is demonstrated by cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy.
Unidirectional formation of tetrahedral voids in irradiated silicon carbide
Authors: Kondo S. , Katoh Y. , Snead L. L.
Published: October 2008

The {111} tetrahedral voids induced by neutron irradiation in 3C-SiC were found to be spatially oriented in only one of two possible directions. The tetrahedral shape was unexpected as the surface-to-volume ratio is larger than the alternative {111} octahedral void common in both metals and ceramics. From a geometric viewpoint, all faces of the observed voids are either Si- or C-terminated surfaces. By comparing the surface area with the octahedral void (composed of the both Si- and C-surfaces) of the same volume, the considerable difference in surface energy between the Si(111) and C(1¯1¯1¯) was implicated.
Achieving population goals in a long-lived wildlife species (Equus caballus) with contraception
Authors: Kirkpatrick Jay F. , Turner Allison
Published: October 2008

The ultimate goal of any wildlife contraceptive effort is some alteration of the target population, either through a slowing of growth, or stabilisation or reduction of the population. Early population models suggested that short-term contraceptive agents applied to long-lived species would not achieve significant population changes. Native porcine zona pellucida antigen (PZP), a short-term contraceptive vaccine, was applied to a herd of wild horses inhabiting Assateague Island National Seashore, MD, USA, over a 13-year period, with an immediate goal of achieving zero population growth, a secondary goal of reducing the population from 175 to 150 and a tertiary goal of reaching 120 individuals, all without the physical removal of animals. Contraceptive efficacy ranged from 92 to 100% on an annual basis (96.28 ± 2.49%), and the percentage of adult females that was treated on any given year ranged from 42 to 76% (67.78 ± 18.21%). The goal of zero population growth was achieved in 2 years, an initial decline in the population became apparent in 8 years and by Year 11, the population declined to 135, a decrease of 22.8%. The lengthy period required for achieving a population decline was caused by increasing body condition scores, reduced mortality and significantly increased longevity among treated females.
Long-term efficacy of levonorgestrel implants for fertility control of eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus)
Authors: Coulson Graeme , Nave Christopher D. , Shaw Geoff , Renfree Marilyn B.
Published: October 2008

Overabundant populations of kangaroos pose substantial management problems in small parks on the fringe of urban areas in Australia. Translocation is impractical and culling is often not publicly acceptable, but fertility control offers an acceptable alternative. One potential contraceptive is levonorgestrel, which provides effective long-term contraception in women, and prevents births in some marsupials for up to five years. We evaluated the long-term efficacy of levonorgestrel in free-ranging eastern grey kangaroos (M. giganteus) at two sites in Victoria, Australia. We trapped 25 adult females at one site (Portland Aluminium), treating 18 with two subcutaneous 70-mg levonorgestrel implants and seven with control (inert) implants. We darted 25 adult females at the other site (Woodlands Historic Park), treating all with two 70-mg levonorgestrel implants. We monitored the reproductive status of the kangaroos, as indicated by the obvious presence of a pouch young, in spring each year for up to seven years. In the first three years at Portland, 81–86% of levonorgestrel-treated females were infertile, compared with 12–29% in the control group, but the effectiveness of fertility control declined over time. At this site, the proportions of treated females breeding in the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh years of the trial were 36%, 50%, 67% and 100% respectively. Fecundity at Woodlands was similar. Although this protocol achieved fertility control for several years, it was likely that more than one treatment or a higher dose rate would be required for effective fertility control in this long-lived species.
Adjuvants targeting innate and adaptive immunity synergize to enhance tumor immunotherapy
Authors: Verdeil Grégory , Marquardt Kristi , Surh Charles D. , Sherman Linda A.
Published: October 2008

Because of mechanisms of self-tolerance, many tumor-specific CD8 T cells exhibit low avidity for tumor antigens and would benefit from strategies that enhance their numbers and effector function. Here we demonstrate that the combined use of two different types of immune adjuvants, one that directly targets the CD8 cell, IL-2/anti-IL-2 mAb complexes, and one that targets the innate immune system, poly(I:C), can achieve this goal. Provision of IL-2/mAb complexes was found to enhance the activation and effector function of low-avidity tumor-specific T cells, yet this was insufficient to achieve tumor eradication. The addition of poly(I:C) further increased the accumulation of granzyme B-expressing effectors within the tumor and resulted in tumor eradication. This strategy presents many of the benefits of whole-body irradiation, including the provision of high levels of homeostatic cytokines, enhanced expansion of effector cells relative to regulatory T cells, and provision of inflammatory cytokines, and is therefore likely to serve as a strategy for both tumor vaccines and adoptive immunotherapy of cancer.
Hindwings are unnecessary for flight but essential for execution of normal evasive flight in Lepidoptera
Authors: Jantzen Benjamin , Eisner Thomas
Published: October 2008

In Lepidoptera, forewings and hindwings are mechanically coupled and flap in synchrony. Flight is anteromotoric, being driven primarily by action of the forewings. Here we report that lepidopterans can still fly when their hindwings are cut off, a procedure reducing their total wing surface, on average, by nearly one half. However, as we demonstrate by analysis of three-dimensional flight trajectories of a moth and a butterfly (
Lymantria dispar
and
Pieris rapae
), hindwing removal causes lepidopterans to incur a loss in both linear and turning acceleration, so that they are unable to exercise their normal flight maneuverability. Without hindwings they still are able to zigzag aerially (the ablation has no effect on their turning radius in flight) but at lesser speed and therefore less evasively. Consequently, hindwings in the expanded state in which they occur in lepidopterans seem to contribute in an essential way to lepidopteran survival. Moths in today's world, we argue, may rely on their evasive flight primarily to avoid capture by bats, whereas butterflies, which we propose advertise their evasiveness collectively through shared aposematism, may depend upon it primarily for defense against birds. Aerial agility thus may be the chief adaptive asset derived by lepidopterans from possession of oversize hindwings.
Submergence tolerance conferred by
Sub1A
is mediated by SLR1 and SLRL1 restriction of gibberellin responses in rice
Authors: Fukao Takeshi , Bailey-Serres Julia
Published: October 2008

Submergence-tolerant rice maintains viability during complete submergence by limiting underwater elongation until floodwaters recede. Acclimation responses to submergence are coordinated by the submergence-inducible
Sub1A
, which encodes an ethylene-responsive factor-type transcription factor (ERF).
Sub1A
is limited to tolerant genotypes and sufficient to confer submergence tolerance to intolerant accessions. Here we evaluated the role of
Sub1A
in the integration of ethylene, abscisic acid (ABA), and gibberellin (GA) signaling during submergence. The submergence-stimulated decrease in ABA content was
Sub1A
-independent, whereas GA-mediated underwater elongation was significantly restricted by
Sub1A
. Transgenics that ectopically express
Sub1A
displayed classical GA-insensitive phenotypes, leading to the hypothesis that
Sub1A
limits the response to GA. Notably
Sub1A
increased the accumulation of the GA signaling repressors Slender Rice-1 (SLR1) and SLR1 Like-1 (SLRL1) and concomitantly diminished GA-inducible gene expression under submerged conditions. In the
Sub1A
overexpression line, SLR1 protein levels declined under prolonged submergence but were accompanied by an increase in accumulation of SLRL1, which lacks the DELLA domain. In the presence of
Sub1A
, the increase in these GA signaling repressors and decrease in GA responsiveness were stimulated by ethylene, which promotes
Sub1A
expression. Conversely, ethylene promoted GA responsiveness and shoot elongation in submergence-intolerant lines. Together, these results demonstrate that
Sub1A
limits ethylene-promoted GA responsiveness during submergence by augmenting accumulation of the GA signaling repressors SLR1 and SLRL1.
Increased substrate oxidation and mitochondrial uncoupling in skeletal muscle of endurance-trained individuals
Authors: Befroy Douglas E. , Petersen Kitt Falk , Dufour Sylvie , Mason Graeme F. , Rothman Douglas L. , Shulman Gerald I.
Published: October 2008

Endurance exercise training is accompanied by physiological changes that improve muscle function and performance. Several studies have demonstrated that markers of mitochondrial capacity are elevated, however, these studies tend to be performed
ex vivo
under conditions that yield maximal enzyme activities or
in vivo
but monitoring the response to exercise. Therefore, it is unclear whether basal mitochondrial metabolism is affected by exercise training. To explore whether resting muscle metabolism was altered in trained individuals
in vivo
, two independent parameters of metabolic function—tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle flux (V
TCA
), and ATP synthesis (V
ATP
)—were assessed noninvasively by using magnetic resonance spectroscopy in a cohort of young endurance trained subjects (
n
= 7) and a group of matched sedentary subjects (
n
= 8). V
TCA
was 54% higher in the muscle of endurance trained compared with sedentary subjects (91.7 ± 7.6 vs. 59.6 ± 4.9 nmol/g/min,
P
< 0.01); however, V
ATP
was not different between the trained and sedentary subjects (5.98 ± 0.43 vs. 6.35 ± 0.70 μmol/g/min,
P
= 0.67). The ratio V
ATP
/V
TCA
(an estimate of mitochondrial coupling) was also significantly reduced in trained subjects (
P
< 0.04). These data demonstrate that basal mitochondrial substrate oxidation is increased in the muscle of endurance trained individuals yet energy production is unaltered, leading to an uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation at rest. Increased mitochondrial uncoupling may represent another mechanism by which exercise training enhances muscle insulin sensitivity via increased fatty acid oxidation in the resting state.
Sustainable Communities: Affordable Housing and Socio-economic Relations
Authors: Maliene Vida , Howe Joseph , Malys Naglis
Published: October 2008

Recent UK government objectives are focused on creating sustainable communities to improve quality of life. Housing is a key issue to consider in delivering healthy and attractive communities. In certain areas of housing, lack of supply and consequent problems of affordability have created persistent social and economic pressure. For sustainable communities, housing should be easily available, high-quality, economic, ecological, aesthetically designed and comfortable, thus better suiting the needs of a person. Moreover, the housing must be affordable according to the local and national situation. This article addresses the issue of sustainable communities from the perspectives of housing markets and socio-economics. The study focuses on key factors that are believed to contribute to the currently existing housing situation, assessing the impact of regulated socio-economics upon the sustainable housing and communities. The study also reviews past and current government initiatives and policies relevant to housing and regeneration in the UK. The article finishes with the interview-based study carried out in the Northwest with a reflection on the notion of the sustainable communities plan and its eight key components, the housing market and its dependence on the economic, the social and political environment and it offers recommendations for the further sustainable communities' development within the UK.
Distal arterial splenic embolization via collaterals: report of two cases
Authors: Li X. , Cwikiel W. , Dasika N. , Cho K.
Published: October 2008

Two patients were treated for bleeding gastric varices, developed due to splenic vein occlusion. In one patient with occlusion of the main splenic artery, splenic embolization performed via collaterals facilitated open splenectomy with minimal blood loss. In another patient, bleeding from the gastric varices stopped after partial arterial splenic embolization performed via the accessory left gastric and inferior phrenic arteries. No complications were encountered.
Retrieval of vascular foreign bodies using a self-made wire snare
Authors: Mallmann C. V. , Wolf K.-J. , Wacker F. K.
Published: October 2008

Background: Foreign bodies in the vascular system have a high potential to cause embolization, perforation, and infection. Therefore, numerous commercially available percutaneous retrieval devices have been developed.

Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a self-made wire snare for the retrieval of foreign bodies in the vascular system.

Material and Methods: 16 consecutive patients, who underwent percutaneous foreign-body retrieval between 1997 and 2007, were included in this retrospective analysis. Percutaneous extraction was performed using an adjustable wire snare that was fabricated using a 5F diagnostic Headhunter or Multipurpose catheter and a 4-m-long 0.018-g/inch standard heavy-duty wire that was bent in the middle to create an eccentric loop.

Results: Percutaneous foreign-body retrieval was successful in all 16 cases. Intraluminal materials including partially fractured venous catheters, guidewires, a stent, and a vena cava filter were removed from various locations. In six cases, mobilization of the intraluminal material via a pigtail catheter was necessary before using the wire snare for removal. Successful retrieval was investigator independent. In no cases were surgical procedures required, and no relevant complications were encountered.

Conclusion: This snare technique is an effective, feasible, and cost-effective method to retrieve intraluminal material. It is an alternative to commercially available retrieval devices.
Unenhanced computed tomography in acute renal colic reduces cost outside radiology department
Authors: Lauritsen J. , Andersen J. R. , Nordling J. , Thomsen H. S.
Published: October 2008

Background: Unenhanced multidetector computed tomography (UMDCT) is well established as the procedure of choice for radiologic evaluation of patients with renal colic. The procedure has both clinical and financial consequences for departments of surgery and radiology. However, the financial effect outside the radiology department is poorly elucidated.

Purpose: To evaluate the financial consequences outside of the radiology department, a retrospective study comparing the ward occupation of patients examined with UMDCT to that of intravenous urography (IVU) was performed.

Material and Methods: A total of 594consecutive patients were admitted for renal colic during two 6-month periods. One hundred seventy-three consecutive patients were examined with IVU in 2000 and 421 with UMDCT in 2005. The only difference between the two groups was the imaging procedure. The duration of hospital stay and pathology findings were registered.

Results: In 50% of the patients undergoing UMDCT, a stone was found; a stone was found or suspected in 40% of patients undergoing IVU. Patients undergoing IVU stayed significantly longer in the ward than patients examined by UMDCT ( P<0.0001). The new procedure (UMDCT) saved the hospital USD 265,000 every 6 months compared to the use of IVU.

Conclusion: Use of UMDCT compared to IVU in patients with renal colic leads to cost savings outside the radiology department.
DIVERSITY, ECONOMICS AND THE AUSTRALIAN NEWSPAPER INDUSTRY
Authors: Brown Allan
Published: October 2008

Diversity of newspaper outlets and diversity of newspaper ownership are both generally conducive to economic efficiency within the newspaper industry. A review of the economics of newspaper publishing reveals two major factors concerning the structure and ownership of the press. The first is that scale economies of production are largely responsible for the tendency of newspaper markets in cities and towns to be dominated by a single title. The second is that the combined effect of economies of scale and newspaper firms’ drive towards growth is likely to bring about a high concentration of newspaper ownership. It is argued that economic theory lends qualified support to policy proposals to prevent mergers between newspaper firms and to require divestiture of newspaper titles.
THE TRANSFER OF INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY TO WESTERN PACIFIC DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Authors: Hill Hal , Johns Brian
Published: October 2008

This paper reviews recent evidence on technology transfer to the rapidly growing Western Pacific region, where most developing countries have adopted relatively liberal policies towards the importation of technology and equity capital. In recent years Japan has emerged as a major supplier of technology to the region. Moreover, there have been important changes in the international technology market, which has become larger and more competitive. Nevertheless, many aspects of technology imports have been criticised, including the conditions attached to its sale, and its appropriateness for low income countries. The arguments for limited regulation of technology flows are assessed and the economic and administrative difficulties pointed out. From the host country viewpoint, the policies influencing diffusion of technology within the country seem to be at least as important as the policies directly bearing on technology transfer from overseas.
AUSTRALIA'S DEPENDENCE ON IMPORTED TECHNOLOGY – SOME ISSUES FOR DISCUSSION
Authors: Morris P.J.
Published: October 2008

This article assesses the extent of Australia's dependence on imported technology and discusses the effects this way have had on domestic research and development expenditure. Drawing upon recent studies of the operations of subsidiaries and branches of US multinational enterprises, some comments are made concerning their contribution to Australia's technological development. In conclusion a number of policy issues are raised.
TECHNIQUES FOR GUIDING THE ALLOCATION OF RESOURCES AMONG RURAL RESEARCH PROJECTS: STATE OF THE ART
Authors: Anderson Jock R. , Parton Kevin A.
Published: October 2008

Diverse methods are available for evaluating benefits and costs of rural research projects. They have been developed in response to a felt need for information in a highly uncertain environment. These formal evaluation schemes are compared in an attempt to show whether any offer useful guidelines for rational allocation of research funds. The outcome is a series of conjectures on the level of effort to devote to research evaluation, and hence on the techniques which should be used. In most circumstances encountered in Australian rural research the optimal type of evaluation would be relatively unsophisticated.
RHETORIC AND REPRESENTATION IN AUSTRALIAN SCIENCE IN THE 1940s AND 1980s
Authors: Moran Jean
Published: October 2008

The title of this paper is not meant to imply comprehensive treatment of developments in Australian science from the 1940s to the 1980s. Its more modest objective is to isolate particular parallels in the debates and rhetoric about science in these two decades. It argues that shifting political and economic contexts condition scientists' preferred strategies of self-legitimation. These shifts may cause major realignments within the scientific power structure. Two such shifts occurred during the 1940s. Coinciding with the outbreak of World War II, the catchcry of ‘science for society’ catalysed unprecedented moves to register science as a key national resource. But the projection of the scientist as social engineer/mediator was not to be realised. With the onset of the Cold War, the scientific community reverted to the defence of autonomy and non-interventionism in scientific organisation. Scientific ‘excellence’ rapidly replaced ‘relevance’ as a justification for government support of science. The appeal to freedom from political interference remains a powerful article of faith within the stratified research hierarchy. Increasingly, however, the rationale of autonomy is out of step with the economic and political climate of the 1980s. Some exploratory observations are made about the legacy of the 1940s in the emerging current political debate about Australia's so-called ‘technological dependence’ and a renewed concern about strategic relationships among science, technology, productivity and national wealth.
INNOVATION IN GASTROENTEROLOGICAL MANAGEMENT: THE CASE OF CIMETIDINE
Authors: Doessel D.P. , Sams J.J.
Published: October 2008

Gastroenterological medicine has, in recent decades, experienced two major innovations, viz. fibre optic endoscopy (a diagnostic technology) and cimetidine, an innovation in ulcer therapy. This paper is concerned with determining the efficacy of cimetidine in reducing the number of surgical procedures for gastric and duodenal ulcer. It is found that, since the introduction of cimetidine, a statistically significant decline in gastric ulcer operations has occurred. A similar result was not obtained for persons with a diagnosis of duodenal ulcer. The picture of substitution of therapies given by this study is in sharp contrast to that depicted in clinical drug trials. This has significance for technology assessment.
THE ADVENT OF STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT IN CSIRO: A HISTORY OF CHANGE
Authors: Flood Joe
Published: October 2008

Australia's major government research agency, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), has recently changed its style of management. This paper traces the development of CSIRO from an institutional research organization to a body taking responsibility for Australia's strategic civilian research, from an organizational perspective. The problems that this change might create in disturbing the organizational balance are outlined. Possible remedies to counter-balance and stabilize the strategic bureaucratic trend are innovative forms of organizational structure, the strengthening of individual incentives to perform applied work, increased exposure of CSIRO scientists to external influences, and improved community involvement in CSIRO's decision-making structure.
RECENT TRENDS IN AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT POLICIES FOR TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION
Authors: Joseph Richard
Published: October 2008

This paper examines the rhetoric underlying policies for technological innovation in Australia over the past five or six years. The analysis is based on two approaches to policies for technological innovation which compete in the political arena: non-interventionism and economic nationalism. These approaches are completely general and aim to outline the scope of the rhetoric surrounding policies for technological innovation. Major policy statements and reports of the Liberal government prior to the federal election in March 1983 are analysed in terms of the two approaches, as is the Science and Technology Platform and pre-election statements of the Australian Labor Party (ALP). Recent policy initiatives taken by the Labor government are also reviewed. It is concluded that the rhetoric of the non-interventionist approach has dominated the development of policies for technological innovation up to March 1983. The ALP rhetoric is more in line with economic nationalism and this is seen to provide some challenges to the implementation and possible success of more direct measures to stimulate technological innovation. However, the most recent policy initiatives taken by the new government suggest that if the rhetoric of the ALP platform and pre-election statements is to be put into practice, much more needs to be done.
MACROECONOMICS AND MICROELECTRONICS — RESULTS OF A STUDY ON APPLICATIONS, DIFFUSION AND EFFECTS IN AUSTRIA
Authors: Sehmoranz Ingo
Published: October 2008

This paper presents details of the model and results of the Austrian macroeconomic study of the employment implications of information technology, Microelectronics: Applications, Diffusion and Effects in Austria. The inadequacies of conventional econometric modeling and the political problems of policy implementation are emphasised.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND EMPLOYMENT: SOME NOTES ON THE USE OF MODELLING TECHNIQUES AS A RESEARCH TOOL
Authors: Bessant John
Published: October 2008

This paper presents a brief review of the use of macroeconomic models in research on the employment implications of information technology. It makes particular reference to the Austrian study, Microelectronics: Applications, Diffusion and Effects in Austria. The major conclusion is that whilst such models have a value, this is dependent on assumptions made about how technology is used rather than simply upon levels of usage or rates of diffusion. It concludes with a consideration of the applicability of such techniques in the future case of advanced and integrated systems in manufacturing and the service sector.
AN ABSENCE OF MALICE: COMPUTERS AND ARMAGEDDON
Authors: Morrison Perry R.
Published: October 2008

This paper addresses the impact of computers on the nuclear arms race and argues that improvements in computer technology have directly led to the diminishing warning and decision period available to human commanders in the event of an accidental outbreak of nuclear war. To support this thesis, a brief and general history of the application of computers to strategic weapons systems is given and evidence is presented which confirms the unreliability and error proneness of current computer-based weapons control systems. The main point of discussion however, involves an emerging proposal to completely automate the strategic systems of the United States and the associated problems and dangers, given present inadequacies.
CONSULTING ENGINEERS AND TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION IN THE CANADIAN ARCTIC OFFSHORE PETROLEUM INDUSTRY
Authors: Tiffin Scott
Published: October 2008

Consulting engineering and design organisations, known as CEDOs, are responsible for much of the extensive technological innovation in the Canadian arctic offshore petroleum industry over the past decade. This research is an exploration of the roles CEDOs play in the innovation process in ocean engineering systems. The CEDOs are not strong in organising the project actors, or in supplying project execution services, but they play a wide variety of crucial roles as the source of innovation, in design and in the overall evolution of technology.
INTERNATIONAL TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER: EMERGING CORPORATE STRATEGIES
Authors: Parry Thomas G.
Published: October 2008

International or multinational corporations have changed in the ways in which they handle technology development and transfer. Responding to various pressures that have emerged since the late 1970s, these international firms have moved towards increasing rationalisation of their technology activities. An increasingly significant development has involved the emergence of technology co-operation agreements amongst firms in various industries. The trend amongst some companies towards increasing cartelisation in both the development and the use of technology may have important implications for the markets in which technology is transferred. This has important ramifications for the governments of countries which are significant purchasers, such as Australia.
A NOTE ON JOB CREATION IN HIGH TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRIES AND LOCAL ECONOMIC PLANNING
Authors: McLoughlin Peter
Published: October 2008

The results of a number of studies sponsored by the Californian Commission on Industrial Innovation concerning the job generating potential of four major high technology sectors are reviewed. The prospect for increased employment opportunities may not be encouraging. Likewise a recent Melbourne based case study finds that businesses which introduce new technologies coupled with reorganisation methods (an increasingly common strategy as companies strive to remain profitable) have predominantly negative effects on employment. On this basis local economic planning proposals which rely heavily on small firm sector attempts to promote industrial innovation are regarded as suspect. Instead, it is argued, local policies designed to create jobs would do better to concentrate on community service programmes. In addition where subsidies to industrial innovation persist they should at least be directed at medium to large size locally based firms through the medium of Development Corporations or Enterprise Boards.
TRADE UNION REACTION TO TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE: THE INTRODUCTION OF THE CHAIN SYSTEM OF SLAUGHTERING IN THE MEAT EXPORT INDUSTRY
Authors: Willis Evan
Published: October 2008

The labour process paradigm is used to analyse a major case study of technological innovation in the meat export industry. This was the reorganisation of mutton slaughtering in the 1930s onto a dis-assembly line basis known as the ‘chain’ system. The response of the meatworkers union to this innovation is the main focus.
TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE AND EMPLOYMENT IN THE INFORMATION ECONOMY: THE EXAMPLE OF QUEENSLAND
Authors: Mandeville Thomas , Macdonald Stuart
Published: October 2008

This paper presents the results of a study which identifies the extent of the Queensland information sector and assesses the role of information technology within it. In terms of employment, the information sector in Queensland in 1981 comprised about 36 per cent of the State's labour force. Information technologies are diffusing rapidly and widely into all sectors of the Queensland economy. Their impact on organisation and employment are investigated.
TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT: A CANADIAN PRIORITY
Authors: Wilson Andrew H.
Published: October 2008

During the summer of 1984 three special reports on aspects of technology development — all addressed to the Government of Canada — were published, the first by a federal Task Force, the second by a Senate Committee, and the third by the Science Council of Canada. Of particular interest was the report of the Task Force chaired by Douglas Wright. This paper discusses the work of the Task Force, the issues it grappled with, and its recommendations. It also discusses a number of the recommendations that appeared in the other two reports. There is no Australian equivalent of the Wright report. It is more general in its mandate and recommendations than the report of the inquiry headed by Professor Ross, for example, and it does not deal with venture capital for high-technology industries as did the Espie Committee. At the time of writing (December 1984) the new Government in Ottawa has begun to make changes to the content and delivery of federal programs and to the work of the federal laboratories.
COMMUNICATION AND THE LIMITS OF KNOWLEDGE
Authors: Sless David
Published: October 2008

This paper explores the concept of an infrastructure of human understanding and a new approach to communication research using a logic of positions. Communication is not, as is sometimes supposed, an instrument for conveying information from one point to another nor are the forms, languages, or capacity for understanding uniformly distributed throughout society. The infrastructure of understanding is an extraordinarily complex phenomenon which cannot be explored with traditional methods. Before taking investigations further in this new area it is necessary to redefine the nature of knowledge.