bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
USING DATA MINING FOR AUTOMATED SOFTWARE TESTING
Authors: LAST M. , FRIEDMAN M. , KANDEL A.
Published: September 2004

In today's software industry, the design of test cases is mostly based on human expertise, while test automation tools are limited to execution of pre-planned tests only. Evaluation of test outcomes is also associated with a considerable effort by human testers who often have imperfect knowledge of the requirements specification. Not surprisingly, this manual approach to software testing results in heavy losses to the world's economy. In this paper, we demonstrate the potential use of data mining algorithms for automated modeling of tested systems. The data mining models can be utilized for recovering system requirements, designing a minimal set of regression tests, and evaluating the correctness of software outputs. To study the feasibility of the proposed approach, we have applied a state-of-the-art data mining algorithm called Info-Fuzzy Network (IFN) to execution data of a complex mathematical package. The IFN method has shown a clear capability to identify faults in the tested program.
ULNAR NERVE COMPRESSION AT THE WRIST BY THE ACCESSORY ABDUCTOR DIGITI MINIMI MUSCLE: WRIST TRAUMA AS A PRECIPITATING FACTOR
Authors: Al-Qattan M. M.
Published: September 2004

This paper describes four cases of ulnar tunnel compression syndrome caused by the accessory abductor digiti minimi muscle and stresses on the observation that wrist trauma could be an important precipitating factor. Possible pathophysiological explanations of this phenomenon are offered and the anatomy of the accessory abductor digiti minimi muscle is reviewed.
AN INTRAMUSCULAR MYXOMA OF THE HAND
Authors: Al-Qattan M. M. , El-Shayeb A. , Rasool M. N.
Published: September 2004

Myxomas of the upper limb are rare and are classified according to their tissue of origin into tumours arising from periosteum, bone or soft tissues such as skin, fascia and muscle. In the literature, one case of intramuscular myxoma of the forearm has been reported. The current report describes the first intramuscular myxoma within the hand muscles.
TOE-TO-HAND TRANSFER IN SYMBRACHYDACTYLY
Authors: Richardson Philip W. F. , Johnstone Bruce R. , Coombs Christopher J.
Published: September 2004

Symbrachydactyly, or central atypical cleft, is classified as a failure of formation. For the adactylous or monodactylous forms, free toe transfer is the treatment of choice. We present 18 free toe transfers in 13 patients for symbrachydactyly. Despite abnormal anatomy, the functional building blocks have always been available and transfer technically possible. The result has been improved function and high levels of parental satisfaction.
FLEXOR TENDON SHEATH GANGLION: ANALYSIS OF 128 CASES
Authors: Abe Y. , Watson H. K. , Renaud S.
Published: September 2004

A 30-year analysis of 128 patients with flexor tendon sheath ganglion was investigated. The majority of patients were females with sex ratio of 2.6 : 1. Most of the patients are in their third to fifth decade of life. Hand dominance, previous trauma as well as other illnesses involving the hand did not show any correlation to the formation of ganglion. The middle finger was most commonly affected and 69% of the ganglion were located on A1 and A2 pulley. Recurrence was high (89%) after multiple percutaneous puncture and treatment was successful with no cases of recurrence after surgical excision.
TREATMENT OF BASAL JOINT ARTHRITIS OF THE THUMB: TRAPEZIECTOMY WITH OR WITHOUT TENDON INTERPOSITION/LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION
Authors: De Smet L. , Sioen W. , Spaepen D. , van Ransbeeck H.
Published: September 2004

This prospective study compared the outcome — subjective, objective and radiographic — of two surgical techniques for treating basal joint arthritis of the thumb: a "simple" trapeziectomy (group I) and a ligament reconstruction/tendon (group II) interposition technique. There were respectively 22 patients in group I and 34 in group II, all women with primary osteoarthritis.

Both techniques gave favourable results and there were no significant differences for pain relief, patient satisfaction, mobility, DASH-score, key pinch force and gripping force. However in group II, the trapezial height was better preserved indicating that the proximal migration of the thumb was prevented or limited. There was also a significant correlation between the remaining trapezial space and key pinch force.
ACUTE CALCIFIC TENDINITIS OF THE FINGER — A CASE REPORT
Authors: Ali S. N. , Kelly J. L.
Published: September 2004

Acute calcific tendinitis of the hand is rare and often misdiagnosed as infection, fracture or periarthritis. It frequently occurs in peri-menopausal women and is caused by deposits of hydroxyapatite crystals. We describe acute calcific tendinitis of the flexor digitorum superficialis insertion in an elderly man taking oral anticoagulants. The differential diagnoses and recommended treatment are discussed.
NODULAR FASCIITIS OF THE THUMB: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Singh Roop , Sharma Ashwini K. , Sen Rajeev
Published: September 2004

Nodular fasciitis is an uncommon, benign, reactive fibroblastic soft tissue tumour. It is infrequently seen in the hand. A case of nodular fasciitis involving the thumb of a 34-year-old male is reviewed, and its clinicopathologic features are presented. Main significance lies in clinical and pathological recognition of the lesion to avoid over-treatment.
CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME PRESENTING AS A NON-HEALING ULCER
Authors: Dalal S. , Bostock S. H.
Published: September 2004

Skin ulceration in carpal tunnel syndrome is rare. A case report of a non-healing ulcer due to carpal tunnel with severe sensorimotor denervation is presented and discussed.
ULTRASOUND FOR THE DETECTION OF VEGETATIVE FOREIGN BODY IN HAND — A CASE REPORT
Authors: Hung Y. T. , Hung L. K. , Griffith J. F. , Wong C. H. , Ho P. C.
Published: September 2004

Foreign bodies in soft tissues are commonly encountered in daily orthopaedic practice. While most of the metals and glass foreign bodies can be detected by plain radiograph, organic substances such as wood and vegetative materials are radiolucent. Unfortunately, these radiolucent foreign bodies are usually more prone to cause an inflammatory reaction and infection. The detection can be even more difficult in cases of multiple foreign bodies and in penetrating injuries with small innocuous skin wounds. Ultrasonography is a sensitive and reliable investigation for detection of foreign bodies in soft tissue. We present a case of penetration injury to thumb with residual radiolucent foreign bodies and demonstrate the proper role of ultrasonography in the management of foreign bodies in soft tissues.
TENOSYNOVIAL OSTEOCHONDROMATOSIS OF BOTH FLEXOR AND EXTENSOR TENDONS
Authors: Chan W. L. , Hung L. K. , Griffith J. F. , Chow Louis T. C. , Ho P. C.
Published: September 2004

An unusual case of a 52-year-old woman with tenosynovial osteochondromatosis involving both of the wrist flexor and extensor tendons is reported.
INTRAMUSCULAR LIPOMA IN THENAR OR HYPOTHENAR MUSCLES
Authors: Lee Young Ho , Jung Jun Mo , Baek Goo Hyun , Chung Moon Sang
Published: September 2004

We report on six patients of intramuscular lipoma of the hand. Four of them occurred in the thenar muscles and two in the hypothenar muscles. The mean age was 49 years (7–68 years). The duration of the lesions prior to excision was averaged as 35 months (12–60 months). Preoperative MRI was taken in all patients, and it was very useful for the diagnosis and differentiation between four well-circumscribed types and two infiltrative types. All operations were performed under loupe magnification. Preoperatively four patients with thenar lipoma had difficulty in moving their thumbs. Two out of four patients with lipomas in the thenar muscles had preoperative intermittent paresthesia and hyperesthesia caused by compression of the radial digital nerve of the thumb. Two patients with lipoma in the hypothenar eminence complained of difficulty with strong grip. The average diameter of the thenar group in its longest dimension was 5.2 cm (3–7 cm), and those of the hypothenar group was 5.5 cm (4–7 cm). At a mean follow-up of 55 months (21–91 months), no tumour had recurred.
SKIN CLOSURE IN CARPAL TUNNEL SURGERY: A PROSPECTIVE COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN NYLON, POLYGLACTIN 910 AND STAINLESS STEEL SUTURES
Authors: Menovsky Tomas , Bartels Ronald H. M. A. , van Lindert Erik L. , André Grotenhuis J.
Published: September 2004

Objective: To compare the cosmetic outcome, pain and tenderness around the operation scar of carpal tunnel syndrome surgery using either nylon, polyglactin 910 or stainless steel sutures for skin closure.

Methods: A randomised clinical trial comparing nylon, polyglactin 910 or stainless steel sutures for skin closure in 61 patients undergoing carpal tunnel syndrome surgery was performed. Pain, tenderness, scar hypertrophy, redness and the presence of granulomas were assessed in all patients at ten days and six weeks after surgery and compared by non-parametric statistical tests.

Results: Adequate surgical decompression of the median nerve could be achieved in all patients. All but two patients experienced significant relief of tingling of the fingers. Nearly all patients reported some degree of discomfort around the scar. At ten days, the mean pain score was 1.7 (±2.2), 3.1 (±2.3) and 1.9 (±2.3) for the nylon, vicryl and steel groups, respectively. At six weeks, the pain score was 3.6 (±3.1), 3.4 (±2.6) and 2.7 (±2.1) for the nylon, vicryl and steel groups, respectively. The infection rate was 0%, 8% and 0% for the nylon, vicryl and steel groups, respectively. Suture granulomas were significantly more present in the vicryl group (p<0.05). There were no statistical differences in redness or hypertrophy of the wound between the three groups.

Conclusions: Nylon and stainless steel sutures are both suitable for skin closure after carpal tunnel surgery. Based on this study, absorbable vicryl sutures should not be used, since the incidence of infections and the presence of suture granulomas was much higher than in the nylon and steel suture groups.
HAND INFECTIONS CAUSED BY DELAYED INOCULATION OF VIBRIO VULNIFICUS: DOES HUMAN SKIN SERVE AS A POTENTIAL RESERVOIR OF VIBRIOS?
Authors: Calif Edward , Shalom Stahl
Published: September 2004

Vibrio vulnificus may cause severe soft tissue infections of the upper extremity. This pathogen usually gains access to soft tissues either by direct inoculation through a penetrating injury by an infected marine animal or by exposing abraded skin to contaminated water. We report five patients with Vibrio vulnificus hand infections following superficial hand injuries incurred within 24 hours after uneventful handling of fish. This clinical observation, together with the fact that the physiologic characteristics of human sweat simulate the natural environment of the Vibrio vulnificus, support the assumption that human skin may serve as a reservoir for Vibrios. The anamnesis in patients presenting with hand infection should essentially include an inquiry regarding recent, albeit uneventful, fish handling.
UNUSUAL CAUSE OF CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Sadat-Ali Mir , Bluwi Mohammed
Published: September 2004

An unusual case of compression of median nerve at the wrist is described due to a foreign body. In unusual presentation of carpal tunnel syndrome, ultrasonography of the wrist is recommended to rule out a foreign body in the region.
A CASE OF TUBERCULOUS TENOSYNOVITIS IN A PATIENT WITH SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS
Authors: Oshima M. , Fukui A. , Takakura Y.
Published: September 2004

A 52-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was infected with tuberculosis (TB) on her forearm and hand, after 16 years of steroid therapy. Debridements and anti-TB therapy were performed successfully. Recently, the risk of significant morbidity from TB has been on the rise; this appears to be a complication of steroid therapy used to treat AIDS and some collagen vascular diseases. It is thought that steroid therapy causes an increased risk of TB. In this paper, we report our experience of this SLE patient who developed tuberculous tenosynovitis. We suggest that TB infection must be considered in the differential diagnosis whenever a patient presents with a chronic wrist or hand inflammation that is non-responsive to steroid treatment. Once TB infection is suspected, both histopathological and bacteriological examinations should be performed. Emergent treatment includes surgical debridement and the institution of early anti-TB therapy immediately after completing histopathological examination.
DORSAL WRIST SYNDROME REPAIR
Authors: Yasuda Masataka , Masada Kazuhiro , Takeuchi Eiji
Published: September 2004

Dorsal wrist pain with or without a palpable dorsal wrist ganglion is a common complaint. Watson developed the concept of the dorsal wrist syndrome (DWS) which is an entity encompassing pre-dynamic rotary subluxation of the scaphoid and the overloaded wrist. We reviewed 20 cases of DWS treated surgically. There were nine males (11 wrists) and nine females (nine wrists). Post-operative follow-up ranged from five to 67 months (mean, 37 months). At operation, we observed SLL tears in eight wrists and dorsal ganglia in 12 cases. Following surgery, 12 cases reported being pain free, five had mild pain, two moderate pain and one case reported severe pain. Post-operative extension/flexion was 73/70 average. Post-operative grip strength was 28 kg average. We believe that excision of the posterior interosseous nerve and the dorsal capsule including the ganglion, if present, provides pain relief in DWS.
SURGICAL PROCESS RE-ENGINEERING: CARPAL TUNNEL DECOMPRESSION — A MODEL
Authors: Casaletto J. A. , Rajaratnam V.
Published: September 2004

Surgical process re-engineering is a methodology where the entire surgical process is systematically analysed and re-designed. The process starts with mapping of the current process followed by in-depth analysis of the existing process. A new process is drafted with the aim of making the whole procedure more efficient. The new process is then discussed with all the staff involved in the operating room. Following implementation of the process, surgical process re-engineering should ideally be routinely carried out to continuously improve the procedure.

We present an example of surgical process re-engineering which we carried out on the procedure of carpal tunnel release. We used carpal tunnel release as a model as it is a very common operation, with predictable intra-operative findings, and the patient is likely to benefit directly from procedure time reduction.

A preliminary mapping of three procedures was done followed by a detailed timed mapping of five routine carpal tunnel decompression procedures. The mapped process was analysed in detail and a number of changes were made in the process. After implementing the new process, a further five procedures were mapped and timed again. In comparison to the original process, we achieved a reduction of 20% in the mean procedure time and a reduction of 42% in the number of steps from 66 to 37.
COMPARISON OF METHODS OF SKELETAL FIXATION FOR SEVERELY INJURED DIGITS
Authors: Cheng Hi-Shan , Wong Lok-Yan , Chiang Lan-Fong , Chan Iris , Yip Tak-Hing , Wu Wing-Cheung
Published: September 2004

Our objective is to compare the results of three different methods of osteosynthesis used in severely injured digits, namely the K-wire group, the K-wire & Wire-loop group and the Plate & Screws group. The results of 38 patients with 50 severely injured fingers managed between 1994 and 2000 were reviewed. Majority of them had serious injury caused by electric-saw and Zone III was the most common level of injury using Biemer's classification. Using the scoring system of Nakamura and Tamai, excellent and good results were obtained in 59.5% of the patients. The rate of bony complications was different among the three methods of osteosynthesis though the final functional outcomes were comparable. The rate of bony complications in this series was 20.4%, which included non-union (7), migration of K-wires (2) and infection (1). All occurred in K-wire and K-wire & Wire-loop groups. Plate & Screws, therefore, is the preferred method of bony fixation if further operation for non-union is to be avoided. This is more so for the proximal injuries.
ISOLATED RUPTURE OF RADIAL COLLATERAL LIGAMENT OF THE SMALL FINGER DIP JOINT REPAIRED WITH A BONE SUTURE ANCHOR: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Yasuda Masataka , Masada Kazuhiro , Takeuchi Eiji
Published: September 2004

Isolated rupture of radial collateral ligament of the small finger DIP joint is a rare injury. We treated this lesion using a bone suture anchor with excellent results.
IRREDUCIBLE LATERAL DISLOCATION OF THE PROXIMAL INTERPHALANGEAL JOINT — A CASE REPORT
Authors: Isshiki H. , Yamanaka K. , Sasaki T.
Published: September 2004

We present a rare case of a lateral dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint that required open reduction. During an operation, we found the collateral ligament and the capsule interposing into the joint space. After reducing the soft tissue and reproducing the collateral ligament with a suture anchor, sufficient joint stability and full range of motion was achieved.
FUNCTIONAL RECONSTRUCTION OF THE IRREPARABLE UPPER TRUNK DEFECT OF THE BRACHIAL PLEXUS — A CASE REPORT
Authors: Chen Liang , Gu Yu-dong , Hu Shao-nan
Published: September 2004

We report a successful application of Oberlin's procedure combined with transfer of trapezius and latissimus dorsi with the teres major for reconstruction of elbow flexion as well as abduction and external rotation of the shoulder to a ten-year-old patient, who had a long defect of the left brachial plexus upper trunk caused by resection of the plexiform neuroma.
NEGLECTED VOLAR DISLOCATIONS OF THE INTERPHALANGEAL JOINT
Authors: Deshmukh N. V. , Sonanis S. V. , Stothard J.
Published: September 2004

Volar dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal joint, if missed, with extensor tendon entrapment will lead to permanent impairment. Prompt diagnosis followed by open reduction and aggressive rehabilitation is necessary.
ACCESS AND USE OF THE INTERNET IN A HAND SURGERY POPULATION
Authors: Wolf Jennifer Moriatis , Ritter Mark , Weiss Arnold-Peter C. , Akelman Edward
Published: September 2004

Internet use is increasing and its applications to medicine and patient information are widening daily. Previous studies have focused on the quality and quantity of medical information on the Internet. The current study focuses on a population of 120 new patients presenting to a hand surgery practice. A questionnaire was used to analyse patterns of Internet access, use of the Internet to look up personal symptoms, and patients' opinions on the use of electronic mail by office staff. Results showed that approximately 90% of the group had some form of Internet access, with a significant age-related decrease in Internet access. Only 17% used the Internet to look up their symptoms, but this group was more likely to correctly match their self-diagnosis to the surgeon's diagnosis. On average, 65% of the study group favoured the use of electronic mail for office staff's communications with patients.
DISTAL RADIOULNAR JOINT DORSAL INSTABILITY TREATED WITH DORSAL CAPSULAR RECONSTRUCTION
Authors: Wong Kwok-Ho , Yip Tak-Hing , Wu Wing-Cheung
Published: September 2004

Six patients with post-traumatic distal radioulnar joint dorsal instability were treated with dorsal capsular reconstruction. This new technique of reconstruction requires less extensive dissection than the previously described methods in the literature and requires no tendon graft. A total of six patients treated from 1999 to 2001 were included in this study. Two were males and four were females. The average age of patients was 30 years and all the instabilities were secondary to trauma. One of them had associated minimally displaced distal radius fracture. All patients had arthrogram and arthroscopy done before the reconstruction and had no significant triangular fibrocartilage complex injury. The surgery consisted of duplication capsulorrhaphy of the dorsal capsular structures of the distal radioulnar joint. All patients had satisfactory results after the operations in terms of pain relief, range of motion and stability.
VALUATION OF EXCHANGEABLE CONVERTIBLE BONDS
Authors: REALDON MARCO
Published: September 2004

This paper provides a structural valuation model for exchangeable convertible bonds, since such bonds are widespread by now. The model is solved through the Hopscotch finite difference method. As the issuer owns the underlying shares, exchangeable convertibles may be called and the exchange option may be exercised even as the issuer experiences financial distress. The value of exchangeable convertibles always decreases in the volatility of the issuer's assets (unlike the value of ordinary convertibles) and decreases in the correlation between the underlying shares and the issuer's assets. The analysis confirms that the dominant motive for issuing exchangeable convertibles is likely to be to dispose of the underlying shares.
LOW-COST SYNTHESIS OF NOVEL VANADIUM DIOXIDE NANORODS
Authors: MAI LIQIANG , CHEN WEN , XU QING , PENG JUNFENG , ZHU QUANYAO
Published: September 2004

The synthesis of novel vanadium dioxide nanorods has been achieved by using V 2 O 5 and cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) in a sol–gel reaction followed by hydrothermal treatment. Morphology and structure of the sample as well as vanadium oxidation state were characterized by XRD, SEM, HRTEM, ESR, XPS and redox titration. The results show that the products are monoclinic (C/2m) B phase VO 2 nanorods and they are 1~2 μm in length. HRTEM micrographs reveal that they indeed form bundles of agglomerated smaller filaments with diameters ranging from 20 to 40 nm besides single nanorod. This filament-like shape in the nanoscale dimension leads to the exposure of a large fraction of the atoms to the surface. Thus, these materials are promising candidates for the development of new functionalized materials. CTAB not only generates a reducing atmosphere, but also plays a key role in the growth of the nanorods. The simplicity of hydrothermal process, as well as cheapness and availability of raw materials are advantages of this method.
FABRICATION OF N-ELECTRODES NANOJUNCTIONS FOR MONOMOLECULAR ELECTRONIC INTERCONNECTS
Authors: CACCIOLATI O. , JOACHIM C. , MARTINEZ J. P. , CARCENAC F.
Published: September 2004

A new e-beam nanolithography process is presented to fabricate N-electrodes nanojunctions for the electrical interconnection of a monomolecular circuit having N input/output. The fabricated electrodes of the junction have a width below 20 nm and are buried at the SiO 2 surface. N=20 of such electrodes can be positioned on a circle of a diameter below 200 nm. An interconnection roadmap for molecular electronics is discussed to put this new process in perspective with the different possible ways of interconnecting a monomolecular circuit via atomic wires, nanotubes or metallic nanowires.
CO-FTIR CHARACTERIZATION OF PVP-PROTECTED Pt NANOCLUSTERS ON ZEOLITE BETA
Authors: MA JINGHONG , REN SHUHUA , LI RUIFENG , WU WEICHENG , LI CAN , XIE KECHANG
Published: September 2004

CO chemisorption on PVP-protected Pt clusters supported on fine high silica zeolite Beta has been studied by in situ FTIR spectroscopy. Two special CO adsorption bands are observed at 2050 cm-1 and 1860 cm-1, respectively, on the surface of catalysts. The frequency shifts and CO band intensity vary with the changing of catalyst preparation parameters, such as polymer amount, Pt loading and pretreatment processing. The results show that PVP-protected Pt clusters have high dispersion on Beta zeolite surface and strong chemical adsorption to CO.
HIGHER HARMONICS OF ELECTRONIC-VIBRATIONAL COUPLING IN SUBRESONANT AND RESONANT TRANSPORT IN SINGLE-MOLECULE DEVICES
Authors: AJI VIVEK , MOORE J. E. , VARMA C. M.
Published: September 2004

Both inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy (IETS) and phonon subpeaks in resonant tunneling probe electronic-vibrational coupling in electron transport through single molecules. Higher phonon harmonics are often seen in resonant tunneling but not in IETS. For the case of subresonant (a.k.a. "inelastic" or "virtual") electron transport, higher harmonics are shown to be damped by unexpected small factors beyond the powers of electron-vibration coupling constant λ. We calculate explicitly for a standard model the strength of higher harmonics in inelastic transport to understand these additional small factors, which result from an orthogonality constraint. Two mechanisms greatly increase the size of secondary peaks in subresonant transport: coupling between electron transport and spatial motion of the molecule, and the "pumping" of higher vibrational modes of the molecule when vibrational excitations do not completely relax between electron transits.
OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF SEMICONDUCTOR QUANTUM STRUCTURES CdTe/ZnSe: CONTRIBUTION OF CdTe QUANTUM DOTS
Authors: DAO LAP VAN , LOWE MARTIN , HANNAFORD PETER , MAKINO HISAO , TAKAI TOSHIAKI , YAO TAKAFUMI
Published: September 2004

The optical properties of the semiconductor quantum structure CdTe / ZnSe are investigated using temperature-dependent photoluminescence and spectrally-resolved three-pulse two-color femtosecond photon echo measurements. The origin of the observed photoluminescence as luminescence from self-assembled quantum dots and the coexistence of two-dimensional and zero-dimensional structures are discussed in terms of the temperature-dependence of the photoluminescence, the wavelength dependence of the dephasing of excited carriers, and the homogeneous broadening of the energy levels.
COMPOSITION AND OPTICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF ELECTROCHEMICALLY-SYNTHESIZED GaAs NANOCRYSTALS
Authors: NAYAK J. , VARMA S. , PARAMANIK D. , SAHU S. N.
Published: September 2004

The synthesis of the GaAs nanoparticles, having sizes 7 nm to 15 nm, by a low cost electrochemical technique has been reported. The absence of any foreign impurity has been confirmed by the Proton-Induced X-rays Emission analysis. Rutherford Backscattering measurement has been performed in order to estimate the thickness of the nanoparticle-generated thin film as a function of the electrolysis current density. The X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopic study confirms the formation of GaAs and exhibits the binding energy shift of the core shell electrons as an implication of the nanostructure effect. Very weak infrared luminescence due to the radiative recombination of the impurity bound exciton has been detected from yttrium-doped GaAs nanocrystals, even at room temperature.
EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN AND OPTIMIZATION OF DISPERSION PROCESS FOR SINGLE-WALLED CARBON NANOTUBE BUCKY PAPER
Authors: GOU JIHUA , LIANG ZHIYONG , WANG BEN
Published: September 2004

This paper presents a new processing method to produce nanotube reinforced composites by using single-walled nanotube (SWNT) bucky paper as reinforcement. The SWNT bucky paper is an entangled mat of SWNTs, which is a highly porous mesh structure. To successfully produce SWNT bucky paper reinforced composites, it is essentially important to prepare a high-quality bucky paper. In this study, the quality of the bucky paper related to the dispersion of nanotubes within the bucky paper, which was quantitatively-characterized with rope size distribution and pore size distribution. An experimental study was conducted to investigate the effects of various process parameters on the dispersion of nanotubes using design of experiments (DOEs) approach. Based on the experimental analysis, the dispersion process of nanotubes within the bucky paper was optimized by selecting appropriate process parameters.
FLUORESCENCE RESONANCE ENERGY TRANSFER BETWEEN DYES AND WATER-SOLUBLE QUANTUM DOTS WITH AVIDIN AS A BRIDGE
Authors: CHEN QI-DAN , LIN ZHANG-BI , SU XING-GUANG , ZHANG HAO , HE XIAO-HONG , YANG BAI , JIN QIN-HAN
Published: September 2004

3-Mercaptopropyl acid-capped quantum dots (QDs) synthesized in aqueous solution were coupled to avidin-sulforhodamine, also named avidin-Texas red (ATR), via electrostatic attraction. An intensity reduction in the fluorescence emission spectrum of QDs and an enhanced fluorescence intensity of the dye were observed on account of fluorescence resonance energy transfer from the QD donors to the dye acceptors. In addition, the fluorescence characteristics of the QD-ATR conjugates were strongly-related to the quantity of ATR, pH value and ionic strength.
REALIZATION OF A TWO-QUBIT QUANTUM GATE UTILIZING EDGE STATES AROUND ANTIDOTS
Authors: JAKSCH PETER , YAKIMENKO IRINA , BERGGREN KARL-FREDRIK
Published: September 2004

It is known that a two-spin system with four energy levels can be used to realize a two-qubit quantum gate. A feasible realization of quantum gates should rely on stable quantum mechanical states. An example of such states are edge states which arise around regions with high potential in a strong magnetic field. In this paper we show that certain edge states around a pair of antidots may be suitable for quantum gate implementation.
DEPOSITION OF LARGE ORGANIC MOLECULES IN ULTRA-HIGH VACUUM: A COMPARISON BETWEEN THERMAL SUBLIMATION AND PULSE-INJECTION
Authors: ZAMBELLI T. , BOUTAYEB Y. , GAYRAL F. , LAGOUTE J. , GIRDHAR N. K. , GOURDON A. , GAUTHIER S. , BLANCO M.-J. , CHAMBRON J.-C. , HEITZ V. , SAUVAGE J.-P.
Published: September 2004

STM investigations on the adsorption of submonolayers of large organic molecules smaller than 6 nm were carried out on copper surfaces to compare two different deposition methods: the thermal sublimation and the pulse-injection. The blue lander, a member of the lander family, could be deposited intact with the thermal procedure, therefore it was used to test the performances of the pulse-injection. On the contrary, the bis-porphyrin, which was decomposed by the thermal procedure, was deposited intact with the pulse injection.
KINETICS OF THE CARBON NANOMATERIALS OXIDATION
Authors: BORISENKO D. N. , KOLESNIKOV N. N. , KULAKOV M. P. , KVEDER V. V.
Published: September 2004

The distinction of the chemical activity of carbon nanomaterials is examined on the basis of chemical kinetics of heterogeneous processes. The activation energy for the oxidation by atmospheric oxygen of MWCNT (190±2 kJ·mol-1), fullerene C 60 (162±2 kJ·mol-1), amorphous carbon (124±2 kJ·mol-1), and synthetic diamond (166±2 kJ·mol-1) is evaluated. The use of the thermogravimetric analysis as a method of composition quantitative analysis of carbon nanomaterials is discussed.
COMBINING NANOMECHANICS AND MAGNETOELECTRICS IN DISCONTINUOUS FERROMAGNETIC FILMS
Authors: COHEN AMITAY , RADOVSKY DANIEL , BARNESS DORON , FRYDMAN AVIAD
Published: September 2004

We present transport measurements performed on systems of granular ferromagnets (Ni). The samples are prepared by quench condensation, i.e., evaporation of discontinuous films on a substrate held at cryogenic temperatures within the measurement apparatus. This technique enables us to study the magnetotransport properties of unique geometries such as dilute granular films, 1D chains of grains and tunnel junction into a granular system with extremely sensitive control over the grain distance. The granular structures exhibit a unique response of the electric properties to magnetic field which is ascribed to mechanical changes of the grain geometries due to magnetic interactions. We discuss the merits of this phenomenon and suggest that it has potential for future magnetomechanical-based devices.
SYNTHESIS OF WORMLIKE NANOPOROUS NICKEL OXIDE WITH NANOCRYSTALLINE FRAMEWORK FOR ELECTROCHEMICAL ENERGY STORAGE
Authors: XING WEI , LI FENG , YAN ZI F. , CHENG H. M. , LU GAO Q.
Published: September 2004

In this work, nanoporous nickel oxide was synthesized using anionic surfactant assembly method. Structure characterizations show that this nickel oxide possesses partly-ordered mesoporous structure with nanocrystalline pore wall. The formation mechanism of wormlike nanoporous structure is ascribed to the quasi-reverse micelle system formed by ternary phases of SDS (sodium dodecyl sulfate)/urea/water. Cyclic voltammetry shows that these nickel oxide samples possess both good capacitive behavior due to its unique nanoporous structure and very high specific capacitance due to its high surface area with electrochemical activity.
HIGH-ORDER OPTICAL HARMONIC GENERATION ON CARBON NANOTUBES: QUANTUM-MECHANICAL APPROACH
Authors: Ya. SLEPYAN G. , KHRUTCHINSKII A. A. , NEMILENTSAU A. M. , MAKSIMENKO S. A. , HERRMANN J.
Published: September 2004

The high harmonic generation by a single-wall carbon nanotube (CNT) due to the interaction with femtosecond laser pulses is investigated. The analysis utilizes the quantum kinetic equations for π-electrons with both intra-band and inter-band transitions. Nonperturbative approach using numerical solution of the quantum kinetic equations in the time domain has been developed and the density of the axial electric current in CNT has been calculated. The amplitude of this current and the conversion efficiency in dependence on the number of the high-order harmonics, the CNT type, the frequency and the intensity of the driving field have been investigated.
NEAR-FIELD RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY OF INDIVIDUAL SINGLE-WALLED CARBON NANOTUBES
Authors: HARTSCHUH ACHIM , ANDERSON NEIL , NOVOTNY LUKAS
Published: September 2004

Near-field Raman spectroscopy with high spatial resolution is used to study single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) within dense samples. A sharp, laser-irradiated metal tip acts as a near-field excitation source causing an enhanced Raman signal within close proximity of the tip. We present optical images of different Raman modes with a spatial resolution better than 15 nm. Local spectroscopy allows us to identify and distinguish tubes with different structures on the nanometer-scale and to observe variations within the spectrum of individual tubes.
QUANTUM CONFINEMENT EFFECT IN HgTe NANOCRYSTALS AND VISIBLE LUMINESCENCE
Authors: RATH S. , DASH A. K. , SAHU S. N. , NOZAKI S.
Published: September 2004

Mercury Telluride ( HgTe ) nanocrystals with a mean size of 5.35 nm have been synthesized by an electrochemical technique. Structural analysis by transmission electron microscopy and glancing angle X-ray diffraction studies indicate the presence of cubic phase HgTe nanocrystals in the deposit. Optical absorption measurements reveal two well resolved excitonic peaks around 578.5 nm and 550 nm attributed to heavy hole valence band (HVB)–conduction band (CB) and light hole valence band (LVB)–CB transitions, respectively, and suggest a band opening of bulk inverted narrow band gap HgTe as a result of strong quantum confinement effect (QCE). Visible photoluminescence (PL) of HgTe nanocrystals indicates free exciton transition around 579.5 nm as observed from the PL measurement at 300 K along with a bound exciton dominated band around 588 nm. Micro-Raman measurements at 300 K indicate the 1LO vibrational mode at 142.6 cm-1 shifted by 6 cm-1 from its standard bulk value and confirm the QCE.
Differential expression of divalent metal transporter DMT1 (Slc11a2) in the spermatogenic epithelium of the developing and adult rat testis
Authors: Griffin Kathleen P. , Ward Donald T. , Liu Wei , Stewart Gavin , Morris Ian D. , Smith Craig P.
Published: September 2004

Iron is essential for male fertility, and disruptions in iron balance lead to impairment of testicular function. The divalent metal transporter DMT1 is a key modulator of transferrin- and non-transferrin-bound iron homeostasis. As a first step in determining the role of DMT1 in the testis, we have characterized the pattern of DMT1 expression in the developing and adult rat testis. Northern blot analysis and RT-PCR of testis polyadenylated RNA revealed the presence of iron-responsive element (IRE) and non-IRE transcripts. Semiquantitative immunoblotting of immature and adult rat testis uncovered the expression of two distinct DMT1 protein species. Immunohistochemistry showed that DMT1 was widespread throughout each seminiferous tubule and was expressed in the intracellular compartment. In the adult rat testis, DMT1 was immunolocalized to both the Sertoli and germ cells. In contrast to the immature testis, expression was dependent on the stage of the spermatogenic cycle. DMT1 was not detected on any plasma membranes in either the developing or the adult testis, suggesting that DMT1 is not primarily responsible for translocating iron across this epithelium. Our data suggest an important role for DMT1 in intracellular iron handling during spermatogenesis and imply that germ cells have a need for a precisely targeted and timed supply of iron. We suggest that DMT1 may, as it does in other tissues, play a role in transporting iron between intracellular compartments and thus may play an important role in male fertility.
Cleavage of SNAP-25 and VAMP-2 impairs store-operated Ca2+ entry in mouse pancreatic acinar cells
Authors: Rosado Juan A. , Redondo Pedro C. , Salido Ginés M. , Sage Stewart O. , Pariente Jose A.
Published: September 2004

We recently reported that store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) in nonexcitable cells is likely to be mediated by a reversible interaction between Ca2+ channels in the plasma membrane and the endoplasmic reticulum, a mechanism known as “secretion-like coupling.” As for secretion, in this model the actin cytoskeleton plays a key regulatory role. In the present study we have explored the involvement of the secretory proteins synaptosome-associated protein (SNAP-25) and vesicle-associated membrane protein (VAMP) in SOCE in pancreatic acinar cells. Cleavage of SNAP-25 and VAMPs by treatment with botulinum toxin A (BoNT A) and tetanus toxin (TeTx), respectively, effectively inhibited amylase secretion stimulated by the physiological agonist CCK-8. BoNT A significantly reduced Ca2+ entry induced by store depletion using thapsigargin or CCK-8. In addition, treatment with BoNT A once SOCE had been activated reduced Ca2+ influx, indicating that SNAP-25 is needed for both the activation and maintenance of SOCE in pancreatic acinar cells. VAMP-2 and VAMP-3 are expressed in mouse pancreatic acinar cells. Both proteins associate with the cytoskeleton upon Ca2+ store depletion, although only VAMP-2 seems to be sensitive to TeTx. Treatment of pancreatic acinar cells with TeTx reduced the activation of SOCE without affecting its maintenance. These findings support a role for SNAP-25 and VAMP-2 in the activation of SOCE in pancreatic acinar cells and show parallels between this process and secretion in a specialized secretory cell type.
Polyamine-modulated expression of c-myc plays a critical role in stimulation of normal intestinal epithelial cell proliferation
Authors: Liu Lan , Li Li , Rao Jaladanki N. , Zou Tongtong , Zhang Huifang M. , Boneva Dessy , Bernard Marasa S. , Wang Jian-Ying
Published: September 2004

The nuclear protein c-Myc is a transcription factor involved in the control of cell cycle. Our previous studies indicated that cellular polyamines are absolutely required for cell proliferation in crypts of small intestinal mucosa and that polyamines have the ability to stimulate expression of the c- myc gene. The current study went further to determine whether induced nuclear c-Myc plays a role in stimulation of cell proliferation by polyamines in intestinal crypt cells (IEC-6 line). Exposure of normal quiescent cells after 24-h serum deprivation to 5% dialyzed fetal bovine serum (dFBS) increased both cellular polyamines and expression of the c- myc gene. Increased c-Myc protein formed heterodimers with its binding partner, Max, and specifically bound to the Myc/Max binding site, which was associated with an increase in DNA synthesis. Depletion of cellular polyamines by pretreatment with α-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) prevented increases in c- myc expression and DNA synthesis induced by 5% dFBS. c- Myc gene transcription and cell proliferation decreased in polyamine-deficient cells, whereas the natural polyamine spermidine given together with DFMO maintained c- myc gene expression and cell growth at normal levels. Disruption of c- myc expression using specific c- myc antisense oligomers not only inhibited normal cell growth (without DFMO) but also prevented the restoration of cell proliferation by spermidine in polyamine-deficient cells. Ectopic expression of wild-type c- myc by recombinant adenoviral vector containing c- myc cDNA increased cell growth. These results indicate that polyamine-induced nuclear c-Myc interacts with Max, binds to the specific DNA sequence, and plays an important role in stimulation of normal intestinal epithelial cell proliferation.
Insulin-induced phosphorylation of ENaC correlates with increased sodium channel function in A6 cells
Authors: Zhang Yu-Hua , Alvarez de la Rosa Diego , Canessa Cecilia M. , Hayslett John P.
Published: September 2004

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a correlation between phosphorylation and activity of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC). The three subunits that form the channel were immunoprecipitated from A6 cells by using specific polyclonal antibodies after labeling cells with 35S or 32P. When immune complexes were resolved on SDS-PAGE, the α-subunit migrated at 85 and 65 kDa, the β-subunit at 115 and 100 kDa, and the γ-subunit at 90 kDa. In the resting state all three subunits were phosphorylated. The α-subunit was phosphorylated only in the 65-kDa band, suggesting that the posttranslational modification that gives rise to the rapidly migrating form of α is a requirement for phosphorylation. Stimulation with 100 nM insulin for 30 min increased phosphorylation of α-, β-, and γ-subunits approximately twofold. Exposure to 1 μM aldosterone for 16 h increased protein abundance and phosphorylation proportionately in the three subunits. When insulin was applied to cells pretreated with aldosterone, phosphorylation was also increased approximately twofold, but the total amount of phosphorylated substrate was larger than in control conditions because of the action of aldosterone. This result might explain the synergistic increase in sodium transport under the same conditions. The protein kinase C inhibitor chelerythrine abolished insulin effects and decreased sodium transport and subunit phosphorylation. Together, our findings suggest that ENaC activity is controlled by subunit phosphorylation in cells that endogenously express the channel and the machinery for hormonal stimulation of sodium transport.
Activation of chloride currents in murine portal vein smooth muscle cells by membrane depolarization involves intracellular calcium release
Authors: Saleh Sohag N. , Greenwood Iain A.
Published: September 2004

The present study describes the first characterization of Ca2+-activated Cl− currents ( IClCa) in single smooth muscle cells from a murine vascular preparation (portal veins). IClCa was recorded using the perforated patch version of the whole cell voltage-clamp technique and was evoked using membrane depolarization. Generation of IClCa relied on Ca2+ entry through dihydropyridine-sensitive Ca2+ channels because IClCa was abolished by 1 μM nicardipine and enhanced by raising external Ca2+ concentration or by application of BAY K 8644. IClCa was characterized by the sensitivity to Cl− channel blockers and the effect of altering the external anion on reversal potential. Activation of IClCa after membrane depolarization was dependent on Ca2+ release from intracellular stores. Thus the amplitude of IClCa was diminished by the SR-ATPase inhibitor cyclopiazonic acid, the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor antagonist 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB), and the ryanodine receptor blocker tetracaine. The degree of inhibition produced by the application of 2-APB and tetracaine together was significantly greater than the effect of each agent applied alone. In current-clamp mode, injection of depolarizing current elicited a biphasic action potential, with the later depolarization being sensitive to niflumic acid (NFA; 10 μM). In isometric tension recordings, NFA inhibited spontaneous contractions. These data support a role for this conductance in portal vein excitability.
The role of intracellular pH in cell growth arrest induced by ATP
Authors: Humez Sandrine , Monet Michaël , van Coppenolle Fabien , Delcourt Philippe , Prevarskaya Natalia
Published: September 2004

In this study, we investigated ionic mechanisms involved in growth arrest induced by extracellular ATP in androgen-independent prostate cancer cells. Extracellular ATP reversibly induced a rapid and sustained intracellular pH (pHi) decrease from 7.41 to 7.11. Inhibition of Ca2+ influx, lowering extracellular Ca2+, and buffering cytoplasmic Ca2+ inhibited ATP-induced acidification, thereby demonstrating that acidification is a consequence of Ca2+ entry. We show that ATP induced reuptake of Ca2+ by the mitochondria and a transient depolarization of the inner mitochondrial membrane. ATP-induced acidification was reduced after the dissipation of the mitochondrial proton gradient by rotenone and carbonyl cyanide p-trifluoromethoxyphenylhydrazone, after inhibition of Ca2+ uptake into the mitochondria by ruthenium red, and after inhibition of the F0F1-ATPase with oligomycin. ATP-induced acidification was not induced by either stimulation of the Cl−/HCO3− exchanger or inhibition of the Na+/H+ exchanger. In addition, intracellular acidification, induced by an ammonium prepulse method, reduced the amount of releasable Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum, assessed by measuring change in cytosolic Ca2+ induced by thapsigargin or ATP in a Ca2+-free medium. This latter finding reveals cross talk between pHi and Ca2+ homeostasis in which the Ca2+-induced intracellular acidification can in turn regulate the amount of Ca2+ that can be released from the endoplasmic reticulum. Furthermore, pHi decrease was capable of reducing cell growth. Taken together, our results suggest that ATP-induced acidification in DU-145 cells results from specific effect of mitochondrial function and is one of the major mechanisms leading to growth arrest induced by ATP.
Inhibition of mitochondrial gene transcription suppresses neurotensin secretion in the human carcinoid cell line BON
Authors: Li Nan , Wang Qingding , Li Jing , Wang Xiaofu , Hellmich Mark R. , Rajaraman Srinivasan , Greeley George H. , Townsend Courtney M. , Evers B. Mark
Published: September 2004

Mitochondria, organelles essential for ATP production, play a central role in a number of cellular functions, including the regulation of insulin secretion. Neurotensin (NT), an important regulatory intestinal hormone, has been implicated in fatty acid translocation, gut motility and secretion, and intestinal cell growth; however, mechanisms regulating NT secretion have not been entirely defined. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of inhibition of mitochondrial gene transcription on NT secretion. BON cells, a novel human carcinoid cell line that produces and secretes NT peptide and expresses the gene encoding NT (designated NT/N), were treated with ethidium bromide (EB; 0.05, 0.1, and 0.4 μg/ml), an inhibitor of DNA and RNA synthesis, or vehicle over a time course (1–4 days). Cells were then stimulated with either ACh (100 μM) or phorbol 12 myristate,13-acetate (PMA, 10 nM) for 30 min. Media and cells were extracted, and NT peptide measured by RIA. Treatment with EB had no effect on BON cell viability or cell cycle distribution over the 4-day course. In contrast, EB treatment produced a dose-dependent reduction of mitochondrial gene expression; however, NT/N gene expression was not altered. Mitochondrial inhibition by EB treatment suppressed NT secretion induced by ACh and PMA, both in a dose-dependent manner. EB-mediated inhibition of NT secretion and mitochondrial gene expression was reversed with removal of EB. Our results demonstrate that inhibition of mitochondrial gene transcription suppresses both ACh- and PMA-stimulated NT release. These findings are the first to demonstrate that mitochondrial function is important for agonist-mediated NT secretion.