bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Communication disruption of male Agrotis segetum moths with one or several sex pheromone components
Authors: Svensson M. , Bengtsson M. , Löfqvist J.
Published: April 2011

Attraction of male Agrotis segetum Dennis & Schiffermüller (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) to sex pheromone traps in fields, which were treated with one or three pheromone components was investigated. Small plots of 1/4 ha size were treated with synthetic pheromone, released by 25 evenly dispersed latex rubber tube dispensers. The dispensers were loaded with either 500 μg Z5‐10:OAc (50 mg/ha), or 1000 μg Z7‐12:OAc (100 mg/ha), or a 3‐component mixture consisting of 500 μg Z5‐10:OAc + 1000 μg Z7‐12:OAc + 1000 μg Z9‐14:OAc. Pheromone traps were placed both within and outside of the treated area in a cross design, with an intertrap spacing of 15 m. Release rates from disruption dispensers were measured in the laboratory after being exposed in the field. The release rates of the components were estimated to be 0.44, 0.11, and 0.06 μg/h/dispenser for Z5‐10:OAc, Z7‐12:OAc and Z9‐14:OAc, respectively. The highest effect of disruption was achieved by the three‐component blend, resulting in a significant suppression of trap catches extending 5 m outside of the treated area. The Z5‐10:OAc treatment resulted in reduced trap catches inside the treated area, but the effect did not extend outside. Z7‐12:OAc alone did not result in any significant reduction in trap catch. The results indicate that different mechanisms may explain the disruptive effect of the treatments and that the single pheromone components are not as effective as the three‐component blend.
The use of triflumuron on sugar‐baited targets for autosterilization of the housefly, Musca domestica
Authors: Howard J. J. , Wall R.
Published: April 2011

A target system, capable of delivering an effective transovarial dose of the chitin synthesis inhibitor triflumuron to the house fly Musca domestica Linnaeus (Diptera: Muscidae), is described. A single 15 × 5 cm polyester target, dipped in triflumuron 10% suspension concentrate (s.c.) and 50% W/V sucrose solution and suspended in 30 × 30 × 30 cm cages of approximately 400 adult M. domestica for 24 h, reduced mean egg hatch to 47%. Egg hatch was reduced to 35% by allowing flies access to similar targets for 7 d. Exposure to triflumuron also interrupted the developmental cycle at the larval stage. After adult M. domestica had been exposed for 24 h to a target baited with 10% triflumuron s.c. and a 50% W/V sucrose solution, only 6% of eclosed larvae pupariated; longer exposure times prevented any pupariation. However, beyond pupariation, there appeared to be no further effect of triflumuron. The age of the flies at first exposure also affected the extent of the ovicidal and larvicidal effects induced, younger adults being more susceptible. However, effects were shown to decrease with time after exposure to triflumuron. A target dosed with 3% triflumuron s.c. resulted in a greater ovicidal effect than a target dosed with 10% triflumuron, suggesting that the higher doses were detected and elicited some negative response from the flies. Effects on females via the treatment of males were demonstrated. The results suggest that utilization of sugar‐baited targets dosed with a low concentration of triflumuron may be a useful step in the development of autosterilizing systems for house fly control.
Inheritance of resistance in maize silks to the corn earworm
Authors: Wiseman B. R. , Bondari K.
Published: April 2011

The corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie), is a perennial economic pest of field crops in the United States. Maize, Zea mays L., is the major host crop promoting the build‐up of devastating corn earworm populations that limit full production of cotton, soybean, peanut, and grain sorghum. Resistance to the corn earworm in maize and in particular sweet maize, would provide an environmentally safe, economical method of control for this pest insect. Antibiotic effects of corn silks on this insect are: small larvae, extended developmental period, and reduced fecundity. Silks from individual maize plants of resistant and susceptible lines and progeny in six generations consisting of parents (P1, P2), F1, F2, and backcrosses BC1.1 (F1 × P1) and BC1.2 (F1 × P2) from each of four crosses were used to determine the genetic basis of the antibiotic resistance of silks to the corn earworm. In the cross of Zapalote Chico × PI340856, genes controlling resistance in the silks to the corn earworm larvae are dominant in PI340856 to those in Zapalote Chico. The cross of Zapalote Chico × GT114 involves parents differing in degree of resistance, and possibly differing for the genetic mechanism by which the resistance is inherited. The inheritance of resistance may involve non‐additive (dominance and epistasis) genetic variance. A digenic 6‐parameter model indicated (1) the resistance in this cross is controlled by more than one pair of genes and (2) some or all of the genes interact to cause non‐allelic interaction. Thus, the resistance in this cross may be controlled by both dominant and recessive genes. The resistance of Zapalote Chico × CI64, an intermediate inbred, is influenced by additive gene effects. The digenic model adequately predicts all generation means of the cross of GT3 × PI340856 except for the F1. Thus, it appears that the additive‐dominance model is not satisfactory for this cross involving susceptible and resistant parents. Generation mean analysis indicates that resistance to silk‐feeding by corn earworm larvae is under genetic control, but gene action differs from one type of cross to another.
Efficient Targeted Energy Transfer With Parallel Nonlinear Energy Sinks: Theory and Experiments
Authors: Vaurigaud Bastien , Savadkoohi Alireza Ture , Lamarque Claude-Henri
Published: April 2011

In this paper the targeted energy transfer (TET) phenomenon between a linear multi-DOF master structure and several slave parallel nonlinear energy sink (NES) devices during a 1:1 resonance capture is investigated. An analytical method is proposed for tuning optimal NES parameters, which leads to efficient TETs. Then, the procedure is intentionally narrowed for a 4DOF master structure with two parallel NESs at the last DOF in order to grasp optimum NES parameters of a prototype structure that is built and tested at the Civil Engineering and Building Department Laboratory of the ENTPE. The aim is to control the first mode of the compound nonlinear prototype system by demonstrating the efficiency of designed parallel NESs by the suggested method.
TUNABLE OF GROUP VELOCITY OF LIGHT IN A RING-IN-RING STRUCTURE
Authors: WANG NAN , ZHANG YUNDONG , WANG JINFANG , WANG HAO , ZHANG JING , ZHANG XUENAN , TIAN HE , YUAN PING
Published: April 2011

We theoretically study a ring-in-ring resonator which is coupled with a straight waveguide to yield coupled-resonator-induced transparency. Its absorption spectrum has a narrow transparency peak with respect to low group velocity, analogizing to that in electromagnetically induced transparency. The transparency peak, the phase difference between the split modes, dispersion, and group velocity can be controlled by changing reflection coefficients. Explicit expression of the group velocity at resonance are derived and discussed, the group velocity can be reached to 104 m/s -106 m/s orders of magnitude with proper choice of the parameters.
HE'S FREQUENCY–AMPLITUDE FORMULATION FOR NONLINEAR OSCILLATORS
Authors: REN ZHONG-FU
Published: April 2011

In He's frequency–amplitude formulation, two trial functions are chosen, which are, respectively, the solutions of linear oscillators. In this paper, an alternative choice of trial function is given: a trial function is a solution of a nonlinear oscillator whose frequency is known. The Duffing equation is used to show the effective of the method.
TRANSITION OF BIPOLARON TO POLARONS INDUCED BY MAGNETIC IMPURITIES IN CONJUGATED POLYMERS
Authors: LIU X. J. , AN Z. , XIE S. J.
Published: April 2011

Both polarons and bipolarons are composite particles with internal structures in nondegenerate conjugated polymers. A bipolaron is a spinless species with charge ±2|e|, while a polaron is a spin-bearing one (spin 1/2, charge ±|e|). Serving as charge carriers, they play an important role in the transport properties of polymer-based optoelectronic devices. By using a nonadiabatic dynamic method, the motion of a bipolaron under an external electric field is theoretically investigated in a conjugated polymer with magnetic impurities. Our results show that a bipolaron can pass through the magnetic impurities, or break down into two polarons with different spins, or be trapped by the magnetic impurities, depending on the width of the impurity region. When the width of the impurity region is comparable to the polaron width, the bipolaron is transformed into two polarons easily. As a polaron and a bipolaron possess different spin characteristics, the decomposition of bipolarons induced by the magnetic impurities may have important effect on the spin polarized transportation.
DARBOUX TRANSFORMATION AND EXPLICIT SOLUTIONS FOR A 3-FIELD INTEGRABLE LATTICE SYSTEM WITH THREE ARBITRARY CONSTANTS
Authors: XU XI-XIANG
Published: April 2011

A 3-field integrable lattice system with three arbitrary constants and its Lax pair are presented. In virtue of the Lax pair, a Darboux transformation for the 3-field integrable lattice system is obtained, from which the explicit solutions of the 3-field integrable lattice system are given.
NUMERICAL STUDY ON ANTI-PENETRATION PROCESS OF ALUMINA CERAMIC (AD95) TO TUNGSTEN LONG ROD PROJECTILES
Authors: ZHANG XIANFENG , ZHANG NIANSONG , LI YONGCHI
Published: April 2011

Numerical studies were conducted on the ballistic performance of alumina ceramic (AD95) tiles based on depth of penetration method, when subjected to normal impact of tungsten long rod projectiles at velocities ranging from 1100 to 2000 ms-1. The residual depth on after-effect target was derived in each case, and the ballistic efficiency factor was determined using the corresponding penetration depth on medium carbon steel. Anti-penetration experiment study of the AD95 ceramic tiles to tungsten long rod projectiles has been carried out to verify the accuracy of numerical simulation model. The result shows that numerical simulation results agree well with the corresponding experiment results and AD95 ceramic has excellent ballistic performance than medium carbon steel. The ballistic efficiency factor increases with velocity increasing when impact velocity lower than 1300 ms-1, and when it was higher than 1300 ms-1 the ballistic efficiency factor has almost no difference.
STRUCTURAL AND IMPEDANCE CHARACTERISTICS OF KPb2V5O15
Authors: DAS P. S. , CHAKRABORTY P. K. , BEHERA BANARJI , CHOUDHARY R. N. P.
Published: April 2011

The polycrystalline sample of KPb 2 V 5 O 15 was prepared by a mixed-oxide method relatively at low temperature (i.e., 550°C). X-ray diffraction studies of the compound showed the formation of single phase orthorhombic crystal structure at room temperature. SEM micrograph showed the homogeneous distribution of grains throughout the sample. Electric properties were analyzed using the complex impedance spectroscopy. The modulus plot showed the presence of both the grain and grain boundary effect. The bulk impedance evaluated from the Nyquist plots was observed to decrease with the rise in temperature, showing a negative temperature coefficient of resistance. The variation of AC electrical conductivity (σ AC ) was measured in a wide temperature (30–500°C) and frequency (102–106 Hz) range. The activation energy of the compound calculated from both the impedance and modulus spectrum was found to be the same.
SCHRÖDINGER EQUATION OF GENERAL POTENTIAL
Authors: WU XIANG-YAO , ZHANG BO-JUN , LI HAI-BO , LIU XIAO-JING , BA NUO , WU YI-HENG , WANG QING-CAI , WANG YAN
Published: April 2011

A generalization of quantum mechanics is proposed, where the Lagrangian is the general form. The new quantum wave equation can describe the particle which is in general potential [Formula: see text], and the Schrödinger equation is only suited for the particle in common potential V(r, t). We think these new quantum wave equations can be used in some fields.
ELECTRON TRANSPORT THROUGH A MESOSCOPIC DEVICE WITH THE SPIN-ORBIT COUPLING SEMICONDUCTOR LEADS
Authors: CHENG SHU-GUANG , ZHAO XIAO-JUAN , ZHAO PEI
Published: April 2011

The electronic transport through a mesoscopic confining region coupled to two spin-orbit coupling semiconductor leads is studied. We mainly focus on how the transport behaviors are affected by the Rashba spin-orbit interaction (SOI), which has been neglected in the previous theoretical papers but indeed exists in the semiconductor leads from the recent experimental results. By using Landauer–Büttiker formula and the non-equilibrium Green's function method, the linear conductance of this device is obtained. The numerical results exhibit that the conductance are similar for the two cases of the absence and the presence of the SOI. It means that the SOI in the leads does not qualitatively affects the transport behaviors. However, in detail, the peaks of the conductance are widened and enhanced by the SOI. In some specific cases, the widening and the enhancement could be very strong.
CYCLIC SUBGROUPS ARE QUASI-ISOMETRICALLY EMBEDDED IN THE THOMPSON–STEIN GROUPS
Authors: WLADIS CLAIRE
Published: April 2011

We give criteria for determining the approximate length of elements in any given cyclic subgroup of the Thompson–Stein groups F(n1,…,nk) such that n1 - 1|ni - 1 ∀i ∈ {1,…,k} in terms of the number of leaves in the minimal tree-pair diagram representative. This leads directly to the result that cyclic subgroups are quasi-isometrically embedded in the Thompson–Stein groups. This result also leads to the corollaries that ℤn is also quasi-isometrically embedded in the Thompson–Stein groups for all n ∈ ℕ and that the Thompson–Stein groups have infinite dimensional asymptotic cone.
MAKE-TO-CONCEPT: A "SOLUTION-BASED" APPROACH TO COMPLEX NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
Authors: ZHANG LIHONG , BRYDE DAVID , MEEHAN JOANNE
Published: April 2011

Achieving close and on-going co-ordination between the various stakeholders involved in the product design and process development has been a main issue in complex new product development (CoNPD). Challenges arise in balancing product innovation and process optimisation, particularly when business customers place an order with a requirement featured as open system specification (OSS). This paper examines CoNPD projects in two international engineering companies based in the UK. The aim is to explore the use of specification management, with a particular focus on the project stakeholders that are both internal and external to the companies. Analysis of the data reveals issues associated with how the stakeholders interact to: manage the risks of associated with OSS projects, develop solution-based approaches and deal with the novelty of technology integration. The research findings provide evidence for a make-to-concept specification management process for contracted CoNPD projects. In doing so, the paper makes a contribution towards developing an approach to solution-oriented businesses that is informed by a rich understanding of how project stakeholders work together to manage CoNPD projects.
SIGSPATIAL Australia 2010 activity report
Authors: Zhang Rui
Published: April 2011

Australia has witnessed a fruitful year in spatial database research. ACM SPATIAL Australia Chapter has arranged a number of activities interacting with international leading researchers in this area.
Family History of Cancer and Tobacco Exposure in Index Cases of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lochan R. , Daly A. K. , Reeves H. L. , Charnley R. M.
Published: April 2011

Aim. To examine interaction between history of cancer in first-degree relatives and tobacco smoking in index patients of pancreatic adenocarcinoma.Methods. We carried out a case-control involving 113 patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma and 110 controls over a 12-month period at the Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. They were all administered a detailed tobacco exposure questionnaire and a family history questionnaire. We calculated cumulative tobacco exposure and risk for pancreas cancer.Results. Both smokers (OR 3.01 (95% CI: 1.73 to 5.24)) and those with a family history of malignancy (OR 1.98 (95% CI: 1.15–3.38)) were more likely to develop pancreatic cancer. Having more than one first-degree relative with cancer did not significantly further increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. Amongst pancreatic cancer cases, cumulative tobacco exposure was significantly decreased () in the group of smokers (current and ex-smokers) who had a family history of malignancy [mean (SD): 30.00 (24.77) pack-years versus 44.69 (28.47) pack-years with no such history].Conclusions. Individuals with a family history of malignancy are at an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, individuals with a family history of malignancy and who smoke appear to require a lesser degree of tobacco exposure for the development of pancreatic cancer.
Endoscopic Bulking Materials for the Treatment of Vesicoureteral Reflux: A Review of Our 20 Years of Experience and Review of the Literature
Authors: Chertin Boris , Kocherov Stanislav , Chertin Leonid , Natsheh Alaeddin , Farkas Amicur , Shenfeld Ofer Z. , Halachmi Sarel
Published: April 2011

Purpose. We reviewed our 20 years of experience and the current literature regarding the long-term outcome of endoscopic treatment of vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) using the different tissue bulking substances with a special emphasis on the long-term efficacy.Material and Methods. Our own experience and the current literature on the long-term results after endoscopic treatment using various bulking agents were reviewed.Results. Short-term data following endoscopic treatment of VUR is similar to the various substances and comparable in the majority of the series to the success rate following open surgery. Recently, a relatively high recurrence rate was noticed especially with the use of dextranomer hyaluronic acid (Dx/HA) as a tissue augmenting material which raises the need for further search for alternative substances.Conclusions. Unfortunately, there is a significant shortage of evidence-based literature on the long-term followup after endoscopic correction of reflux with various substances. No doubt, there is a high recurrence rate during long-term followup after Dx/HA injection, and there is probably lack of proper evaluation regarding the long-term efficacy of other bulking materials. These facts demand long-term close observation and long-term studies beyond the routine protocols following endoscopic treatment of VUR and the correct parental counseling upon the endoscopic correction.
The Centre of the Spaces of Banach Lattice‐Valued Continuous Functions on the Generalized Alexandroff Duplicate
Authors: Polat Faruk
Published: April 2011

We characterize the centre of the Banach lattice of Banach lattice E‐valued continuous functions on the Alexandroff duplicate of a compact Hausdorff space K in terms of the centre of C(K, E), the space of E‐valued continuous functions on K. We also identify the centre of CD0(Q, E) = C(Q, E) + c0(Q, E) whose elements are the sums of E‐valued continuous and discrete functions defined on a compact Hausdorff space Q without isolated points, which was given by Alpay and Ercan (2000).
Structural and Optical Investigations of Radiation Damage in Transparent PET Polymer Films
Authors: Prasad Shiv Govind , De Abhijit , De Udayan
Published: April 2011

Effects of gamma irradiation at different doses up to 135 kGy on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polymer films have been investigated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐VIS) spectroscopy. From XRD analysis, it was found that even at a high dose of gamma irradiation of 135 kGy, crystallinity of the PET samples remain unchanged. However, the FTIR peak at 871 cm−1 (depicting C–H bending mode of out‐of‐plane vibration) and another at 1303 cm−1 (representing C–H bending mode of in‐plane vibration) disappear for gamma‐irradiated PET. In this study, it has also been found that γ‐irradiation in air enhances the optical absorption in the wavelength region 320–370 nm. This has been attributed to free radicals being produced in the polymer by the γ‐radiation. Further, the free radicals react with oxygen of air to form carbonyl group and hydroxyls. With increasing γ‐dose, there is a red shift of the UV—near visible cutoff for PET. XRD and FTIR observations on γ‐damage have been correlated.
A Constructive Analysis of Convex-Valued Demand Correspondence for Weakly Uniformly Rotund and Monotonic Preference
Authors: Tanaka Yasuhito , Satoh Atsuhiro
Published: April 2011

Bridges (1992) has constructively shown the existence of continuous demand function for consumers with continuous, uniformly rotund preference relations. We extend this result to the case of multivalued demand correspondence. We consider a weakly uniformly rotund and monotonic preference relation and will show the existence of convex-valued demand correspondence with closed graph for consumers with continuous, weakly uniformly rotund and monotonic preference relations. We follow the Bishop style constructive mathematics according to Bishop and Bridges (1985), Bridges and Richman (1987), and Bridges and Vîţă (2006).
Preforming Analysis of Biaxial Braided Fabrics Sleeving on Pipes and Ducts
Authors: Li Shoujie , Tsai J. Stephen , Lee L. James
Published: April 2011

This work investigates the preforming process of composite ducts made of biaxial braided fabrics. Two models based on the geometric modeling were developed to predict the fiber orientation and surface density. It is found that fabrics tend to slip during preforming in the case of curved ducts. A slip coefficient was introduced in the model to take this into account. A series of experiments were conducted to validate the models. The results show good agreement between model prediction and experiments.
Probabilistic Modeling of Ceramic Matrix Composite Strength
Authors: Shah Ashwin R. , Murthy Pappu L. N. , Mital Subodh K. , Bhatt Ramakrishna T.
Published: April 2011

Uncertainties associated with the primitive random variables such as manufacturing process (processing temperature, fiber volume ratio, void volume ratio), constituent properties (fiber, matrix and interface), and geometric parameters (ply thickness, interphase thickness) have been simulated to quantify the scatter in the first matrix cracking strength (FMCS) and the ultimate tensile strength of SCS-6/RBSN [SiC fiber (SCS-6) reinforced reaction-bonded silicon nitride composite] ceramic matrix composite laminate at room temperature. Cumulative probability distribution function for the FMCS and ultimate tensile strength at room temperature (RT) of [0]8, [02/902] S, and [±452] S laminates have been simulated and the sensitivity of primitive variables to the respective strengths have been quantified. Computationally predicted scatter of the strengths for a uniaxial laminate has been compared with those from limited experimental data. Also the experimental procedure used in the tests has been described briefly. Results show a very good agreement between the computational simulation and the experimental data. Dominating failure modes in [0]8, [0/90] S, and [±45] S laminates have been identified. Results indicate that the first matrix cracking strength for the [0]8 and [0/90] S, laminates is sensitive to the thermal properties, modulus and strengths of both the fiber and matrix whereas the ultimate tensile strength is sensitive to the fiber strength and the fiber volume ratio. In the case of a [±45] S laminate, both the FMCS and the ultimate tensile strengths have a small scatter range and are sensitive to the fiber tensile strength as well as the fiber volume ratio.
Micromechanics Characterization of Unidirectional Composites during Multiaxial Plastic Deformation
Authors: Tszeng T. C.
Published: April 2011

This study examined the micromechanics at the scale of reinforcement in a short fiber/whisker reinforced unidirectional composite undergoing elastic/plastic deformation. The equivalent inclusion method was extended to consider composite systems comprising fiber/whisker of variable aspect ratio. The flow rule of matrix material is incorporated such that the composite deformation involved multiaxial loading can be handled. Theoretical predictions are reported on the effects of variable fiber aspect ratio, loading direction, and hydrostatic stress on the macroscopic behavior of the composite and the stress state at the reinforcement scale.
Energy Release Rate Determination for Edge Delamination under Combined In-Plane, Bending and Hygrothermal Loading. Part I-Delamination at a Single Interface
Authors: Davidson B. D.
Published: April 2011

Edge delamination in composite laminates subjected to combined in-plane, bending and hygrothermal loading is analyzed using a crack tip element approach. Classical laminated plate theory is utilized for the crack tip element formulation. Individual energy release rate components are found using a set of closed form equations derived from plate theory, plus the results from a single continuum analysis. For those cases where a linear elastic solution predicts a near-field oscillatory singularity, a new approach is used which allows a unique, physically meaningful value of fracture mode ratio to be defined.
Mixed-Mode Fracture of Adhesively Bonded CF/Epoxy Composite Joints
Authors: Daghyani Hamid Reza , Ye Lin , Mai Yiu-Wing
Published: April 2011

Mixed-mode fracture behaviour of adhesively bonded CF/Epoxy composite joints was studied using a rubber-modified epoxy (Araldite® GY260) as the adhesive. Fixed-ratio mixed-mode specimens ( G I/ G II = 4/3) were applied in the experiments. Composite adherends were manufactured from carbon fibre/epoxy (5128 T300 BASF) prepreg. The global mixed-mode fracture energy, G c, of the joints with different bond thickness, t, was evaluated using compliance calibration obtained from the experiments, beam theory and finite element analysis. The crack path along the bond line in the adhesive joints was investigated using optical microscopy. It was found that G c, was dependent on both the bond thickness and the actual crack path in the joints. G c, increased mildly from thin bonds (t < 100 μm) to a plateau value for larger bond thickness (t > 100 Am). For poor bonding between the adhesive and the composite adherends, interfacial crack propagation was observed for very thin bonds with alternating crack jumping from one interface to another across the bond line. The crack propagated almost at one interface for large bonds with occasional kinking. However, for strong interfacial bonding, the crack was deviated from the mode-I precrack towards the composite adherend and propagated cohesively in the composite layer. Scanning electron microscopy on the fracture surfaces showed different morphology depending on the interfacial bonding between the adhesive and the composite adherend.
Inverse Problems in Resin Transfer Molding
Authors: Velten Kai
Published: April 2011

The mathematical theory of inverse problems deals with parameter identification in quantitative models. Applied to resin transfer molding, inverse problems are concerned with the determination of permeability, viscosity, porosity, conductivity and flow resistance from experimental or process data. While general inverse problems need sophisticated numerics, our work tries to classify those inverse problems in resin transfer molding where the parameters can be calculated analytically or with very little numerical effort. Formulas for the calculation of pointwise or mean values of constant, piecewise constant or general continuous RTM parameters result. In particular, we show how "smooth" information on RTM parameters can be obtained from pressure and inflow rate data using numerical differentiation and least squares filtering of the data.
Fatigue Damage Evaluation of PMC by Time Series Model
Authors: Otani Nobuo , Song Dong-Yeul , Hashimoto Shozo
Published: April 2011

To detect quantitatively transverse cracks, the new technique was developed from the viewpoint of the time series model. The transfer function of PMC (polymer matrix composites) was determined using the mechanical model and the time series model. The response of the system depending on the internal damage was examined from the change of the time series signal passing through PMC. Moreover, the relationships among ARMA (auto regressive moving average) parameter, transverse crack density and mechanical constants were discussed. As a result, it was found that the increase of transverse cracks can be evaluated by using AR (auto regressive) parameter. It is also suggested that this detecting technique is applicable to the health-monitoring.
Thermal Conductivity of Fiber Reinforced Composites by the FEM
Authors: Islam Md. R. , Pramila A.
Published: April 2011

Applicability of the finite element method (FEM) in predicting the effective transverse thermal conductivity of fiber reinforced composites is systematically studied. Four different boundary condition combinations representing the periodicity of the temperature field are employed for ideal composites having perfect bond between fiber and matrix. Both circular and square cross-section fibers are studied. Comparisons of present FEM results with available analytical and experimental results reveal that periodicity realized by prescribed temperatures yields most accurate results up to high fiber volume fractions. In composites with interfacial thermal barrier resistance the effective conductivity varies in a wide range depending on the interfacial conductance between fiber and matrix. Best fit with available experimental results is obtained for both circular and square fibers when the dimensionless interfacial conductance is about 30. By employing the modeling practice found successful in the cases for which analytical andlor experimental results exist, some typical combined effects of partial debonding and matrix cracking, for which no such results exist, are finally considered.
Identifying the Relationship Between Chronic Pain, Depression, and Life Satisfaction in Older African Americans
Authors: Baker Tamara A. , Buchanan NiCole T. , Small Brent J. , Hines Resche D. , Whitfield Keith E.
Published: April 2011

Empirical research on the chronic pain experience of older African Americans is scarce. Here, the authors examined the influence psychosocial indicators have on the pain experience in a sample of older African Americans. Data were collected from African Americans ( N = 247) 50 to 96 years of age (69.4 ± 9.4). All participants provided self-report data on pain indicators, demographic characteristics, social (social support, locus of control, life satisfaction) variables, and depression. Those reporting higher levels of social support and depressive symptoms experienced greater pain intensity. Pain had an indirect effect on depression as mediated through life satisfaction.These findings demonstrate the need to focus more on the means to prevent and treat pain and to ameliorate its impact on social well-being, psychological functioning, and quality of life in older adults in general and older minority adults in particular.
Aging in Haiti
Authors: Baumann Steven L. , Bellefleur Carmelle M.
Published: April 2011

In this column Orem’s self-care deficit model and Holzkamp’s critical learning theory are used to discuss the story of an older adult Haitian woman with an interview with a Haitian nurse leader, Mme. Suze N’Lemba. Older adults in Haiti today are seen as a group at very high risk due in part to the conditions in the country, and they are in need of considerable guidance in nursing. However the current number of nurses and nurse educators in Haiti, and the extremely limited resources there, make it unlikely that the vast majority of these individuals will receive what they need. Therefore what is needed at this time are international nursing partnerships and assistance.
ALK1 as an emerging target for antiangiogenic therapy of cancer
Authors: Cunha Sara I. , Pietras Kristian
Published: April 2011

Members of the TGF-β family act on many, if not all, cell types within the body, producing diverse and complex cellular outcomes. Activation of the endothelial cell-restricted TGF-β type I receptor ALK1 results from the binding of several different ligands of the TGF-β family, including bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 9, BMP10, and TGF-β. Mounting genetic, pharmacologic, and histopathologic evidence supports a critical role for ALK1 signaling in regulation of both developmental and pathologic blood vessel formation. However, the precise function of TGF-β family signaling in endothelial cells is difficult to predict and appears highly context dependent because of the multitude of ligands and receptors influencing the final outcome. Pharmacologic inhibitors of ALK1 have recently been developed and will allow for more accurate studies of ALK1 function in vivo, as well as for assessment of ALK1 as a target for suppression of angiogenesis during tumor development. Herein, we will summarize the current view of ALK1 regulation of endothelial cell phenotype in vitro and in vivo as well as provide an outlook for the ongoing clinical trials of ALK1 inhibitors in malignant disease.
A highly sensitive detection for foot-and-mouth disease virus by gold nanopariticle improved immuno-PCR
Authors: Ding Yao-zhong , Liu Yong-sheng , Zhou Jian-hua , Chen Hao-tai , Wei Gang , Ma Li-na , Zhang Jie
Published: April 2011

Backgroud

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is one of the most contagious of all artiodactyl animal diseases, and its infection has an obvious ability to spread over long distances and to contribute to epidemics in FMD-free areas. A highly sensitive and specific method is required to detect FMDV. In this study, we evaluated the usefulness of a bio-barcode assay (BCA) technique for detecting clinical samples of FMDV.

Methods

Highly sensitive gold nanopariticle (GNP) improved immuno-PCR (GNP-IPCR) which derived from the bio-barcode assay (BCA) was designed for the detection of FMDV. The target viral particles were captured by a polyclonal antibody coated on ELISA microplate, followed by adding GNP which was dually modified with oligonucleotides and a FMDV specific monoclonal antibody (MAb) 1D11 to form a sandwiched immune complex. After the formation of immuno-complex, the signal DNA was released by heating, and consequently characterized by PCR and real time PCR.

Results

The detection limit of GNP-PCR could reach to 10 fg/ml purified FMDV particles, and the assay can detect clinical samples of FMDV with highly sensitivity, while detect limit of conventional ELISA is 100 ng/ml in this study.

Conclusion

GNP-IPCR may provide a highly sensitive method for the detection of FMDV.
HIV integrase variability and genetic barrier in antiretroviral naïve and experienced patients
Authors: Piralla Antonio , Paolucci Stefania , Gulminetti Roberto , Comolli Giuditta , Baldanti Fausto
Published: April 2011

Background

HIV-1 integrase (IN) variability in treatment naïve patients with different HIV-1 subtypes is a major issue. In fact, the effect of previous exposure to antiretrovirals other than IN inhibitors (INI) on IN variability has not been satisfactorily defined. In addition, the genetic barrier for specific INI resistance mutations remains to be calculated.

Methods

IN variability was analyzed and compared with reverse transcriptase (RT) and protease (PR) variability in 41 treatment naïve and 54 RT inhibitor (RTI) and protease inhibitor (PRI) experienced patients from subjects infected with subtype B and non-B strains. In addition, four HIV-2 strains were analyzed in parallel. Frequency and distribution of IN mutations were compared between HAART-naïve and RTI/PI-experienced patients; the genetic barrier for 27 amino acid positions related to INI susceptibility was calculated as well.

Results

Primary mutations associated with resistance to INI were not detected in patients not previously treated with this class of drug. However, some secondary mutations which have been shown to contribute to INI resistance were found. Only limited differences in codon usage distribution between patient groups were found. HIV-2 strains from INI naïve patients showed the presence of both primary and secondary resistance mutations.

Conclusion

Exposure to antivirals other than INI does not seem to significantly influence the emergence of mutations implicated in INI resistance. HIV-2 strain might have reduced susceptibility to INI.
Coexistence of a colon carcinoma with two distinct renal cell carcinomas: a case report
Authors: Papalampros Alexandros E , Petrou Athanasios S , Mantonakis Eleftherios I , Evangelou Konstantinos I , Giannopoulos Lambros A , Marinos Georgios G , Giannopoulos Athanasios L
Published: April 2011

Introduction

We present the case of a patient with two tumors in his left kidney and a synchronous colon cancer. While coexisting tumors have been previously described in the same kidney or the kidney and other organs, or the colon and other organs, to the best of our knowledge no such concurrency of three primary tumors has been reported in the literature to date.

Case presentation

A 72-year-old man of Greek nationality presenting with pain in the right hypochondrium underwent a series of examinations that revealed gallstones, a tumor in the hepatic flexure of the colon and an additional tumor in the upper pole of the left kidney. He was subjected to a right hemicolectomy, left nephrectomy and cholecystectomy, and his postoperative course was uneventful. Histopathology examinations showed a mucinous colon adenocarcinoma, plus two tumors in the left kidney, a papillary renal cell carcinoma and a chromophobe renal cell carcinoma.

Conclusion

This case underlines the need to routinely scan patients pre-operatively in order to exclude coexisting tumors, especially asymptomatic renal tumors in patients with colorectal cancer, and additionally to screen concurrent tumors genetically in order to detect putative common genetic alterations.
A rare case of t(11;22) in a mantle cell lymphoma like B-cell neoplasia resulting in a fusion of IGL and CCND1: case report
Authors: Krings Rocha Cristiano , Praulich Inka , Gehrke Iris , Hallek Michael , Kreuzer Karl-Anton
Published: April 2011

The chromosomal translocation (11;14)(q13;q32) rearranging the locus for cyclin D1 (CCND1) to that of the immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) can be found in virtually all cases of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), while otherCCND1translocations are extremely rare. AsCCND1overexpression and activation is a hallmark of MCL it is regarded as a central biological mechanism in the development and maintenance of this disease.

Here we present a patient initially diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) where chromosome banding analysis revealed, among other aberrations, a translocation (11;22)(q13;q11.2). We show by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis that on chromosome 22 the immunoglobulin light chain lambda (IGL) is involved in this cytogenetic aberration. Additionally, we demonstrate the resulting overexpression ofCCND1on the RNA and protein level, thereby consolidating the new diagnosis of a MCL-like B-cell neoplasia. Summing up, we described a rare case of t(11;22)(q13;q11.2) in a MCL-like neoplasia and showed that this aberration leads to an overexpression ofCCND1which is regarded as a key biological feature in MCL. This case underlines the importance of cytogenetic analyses especially in atypical cases of B cell lymphomas.
STIM1 as a key regulator for Ca2+ homeostasis in skeletal-muscle development and function
Authors: Kiviluoto Santeri , Decuypere Jean-Paul , De Smedt Humbert , Missiaen Ludwig , Parys Jan B. , Bultynck Geert
Published: April 2011

Stromal interaction molecules (STIM) were identified as the endoplasmic-reticulum (ER) Ca2+ sensor controlling store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) and Ca2+-release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channels in non-excitable cells. STIM proteins target Orai1-3, tetrameric Ca2+-permeable channels in the plasma membrane. Structure-function analysis revealed the molecular determinants and the key steps in the activation process of Orai by STIM. Recently, STIM1 was found to be expressed at high levels in skeletal muscle controlling muscle function and properties. Novel STIM targets besides Orai channels are emerging.

Here, we will focus on the role of STIM1 in skeletal-muscle structure, development and function. The molecular mechanism underpinning skeletal-muscle physiology points toward an essential role for STIM1-controlled SOCE to drive Ca2+/calcineurin/nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT)-dependent morphogenetic remodeling programs and to support adequate sarcoplasmic-reticulum (SR) Ca2+-store filling. Also in our hands, STIM1 is transiently up-regulated during the initial phase of in vitro myogenesis of C2C12 cells. The molecular targets of STIM1 in these cells likely involve Orai channels and canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) channels TRPC1 and TRPC3. The fast kinetics of SOCE activation in skeletal muscle seem to depend on the triad-junction formation, favoring a pre-localization and/or pre-formation of STIM1-protein complexes with the plasma-membrane Ca2+-influx channels. Moreover, Orai1-mediated Ca2+ influx seems to be essential for controlling the resting Ca2+ concentration and for proper SR Ca2+ filling. Hence, Ca2+ influx through STIM1-dependent activation of SOCE from the T-tubule system may recycle extracellular Ca2+ losses during muscle stimulation, thereby maintaining proper filling of the SR Ca2+ stores and muscle function. Importantly, mouse models for dystrophic pathologies, like Duchenne muscular dystrophy, point towards an enhanced Ca2+ influx through Orai1 and/or TRPC channels, leading to Ca2+-dependent apoptosis and muscle degeneration. In addition, human myopathies have been associated with dysfunctional SOCE. Immunodeficient patients harboring loss-of-function Orai1 mutations develop myopathies, while patients suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy display alterations in their Ca2+-handling proteins, including STIM proteins. In any case, the molecular determinants responsible for SOCE in human skeletal muscle and for dysregulated SOCE in patients of muscular dystrophy require further examination.
Mirror, Mirror, Tell Me Who I Am: Colonial Empire and French Identity
Authors: Lazreg Marnia
Published: April 2011

This essay analyzes the pitfalls of the adoption of postcolonial studies by French colonial historians and traces their roots to a deep-seated identity investment in the colonial empire, especially Algeria. It examines French colonial historiography's elision of racism as a willed attempt at maintaining the wholeness of imperial identity (after the loss of empire) rather than a pathological condition of aphasia. The essay argues that French imperial identity is nurtured by education and state intervention in the production and reproduction of political culture.
Molecular evidence of vector-borne pathogens coinfecting dogs from Poland
Authors: Rymaszewska Anna , Adamska Małgorzata
Published: April 2011

Ticks of the genusIxodesare vectors for many pathogens, includingBorrelia burgdorferisensu lato,Anaplasma phagocytophilumandRickettsiaspp., and may also serve as vectors forBartonellaspp. However, the role of ticks inBartonellatransmission requires additional studies. The aim of this study was to investigate whether coinfection with two or more vector-borne pathogens can occur in the following three groups of dogs: I — dogs with suspected borreliosis (N = 92), II — dogs considered healthy (N = 100), and III — dogs with diagnosed babesiosis (N = 50). Polymerase chain reactions were performed to detect DNA ofAnaplasma phagocytophilum, Rickettsiaspp. andBartonellaspp. in the blood of dogs. In dogs of Group I, the DNA of bothA. phagocytophilumandBartonellasp. was detected (14% and 1%, respectively). In eight dogs, coinfection was indicated:A. phagocytophilumorBartonellasp. withB. burgdorferis.l. (the presence of antibodies against and/or DNAB. burgdorferis.l.). In the case of five dogs positive forA. phagocytophilumDNA, no coinfection withB. burgdorferis.l. was shown. In Group II, the DNA ofA. phagocytophilumwas detected in four dogs. In Group III, no pathogenic agents possibly transmitted by ticks were confirmed. No DNA ofR. helveticawas detected in any of the groups studied.
Pressure Loading of Piezo Composite Unimorphs
Authors: Mane Poorna , Mossi Karla , Bryant Robert
Published: April 2011

Over the past decade synthetic jets have emerged as a promising means of active flow control. They have the ability to introduce small amounts of energy locally to achieve non-local changes in the flow field. These devices have the potential of saving millions of dollars by increasing the efficiency and simplifying fluid related systems. A synthetic jet actuator consists of a cavity with an oscillating diaphragm. As the diaphragm oscillates, jets are formed through an orifice in the cavity. This paper focuses on piezoelectric synthetic jets formed using two types of active diaphragms, Thunder® and Lipca. Thunder® is composed of three layers; two metal layers, with a PZT-5A layer in between, bonded with a polyimide adhesive. Lipca is a Light WeIght Piezo Composite Actuator, formed of a number of carbon fiber prepreg layers and an active PZT-5A layer. As these diaphragms oscillate, pressure differences within the cavity as well as average maximum jet velocities are measured. These parameters are measured under load and no-load conditions by controlling pressure at the back of the actuator or the passive cavity. Results show that the average maximum jet velocities measured at the exit of the active cavity, follow a similar trend to the active pressures for both devices. Active pressure and jet velocity increase with passive pressure to a maximum, and then decrease. Active pressure and the jet velocity peaked at the same passive cavity pressure of 18kPa for both diaphragms indicating that the same level of pre-stresses is present in both actuators even though Lipca produces approximately 10% higher velocities than Thunder®.
Temperature sensing based on optical transmission in a LiBr heat pump
Authors: Basurto-Pensado Miguel , Romero Rosenberg J. , Escobedo-Alatorre Jesús , Tecpoyotl-Torres Margarita , Jiménez-Heredia Aurelio H. , Sanchez-Mondragon Javier
Published: April 2011

A new technique, based on Optical Methods, has been tested for the evaluation of the lithium bromide (LiBr) concentration, a corrosive substance frequently used in heat pumps. Those solutions have large oxidizing capabilities. This technique avoids the direct contact between the electrodes and the LiBr aqueous solution within a thermodynamic absorption cycle. The viability of this technique in a potential commercial device, resides on its capability to detect working fluid concentrations within a temperature range from 25 °C up to 70 °C, those limiting temperature values correspond to the operating wavelengths of 1.33 μm and 1.55 μm, respectively. Our system determines the correlation among the signal and temperature data, for various concentrations, between 49 and 58 mass percentages. This function of two variables is represented as a surface with the transmittance, concentration and temperature as parameters and wavelength as reference. We discuss the adequate parameters characterization used in this technique.