bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental and numerical analyses of the resonances of split ring resonators
Authors: Aydin Koray , Özbay Ekmel
Published: March 2007

The authors investigate the resonances of split‐ring resonator (SRR) structures experimentally and theoretically. The transmission measurements were performed on a single SRR unit cell and periodic arrays of SRRs. The magnetic response of the SRR structure was demonstrated by comparing the SRRs' transmission spectra of with that of closed ring resonators (CRR). The surface currents along the SRR surfaces at the magnetic and electrical resonances were simulated and a circular surface current was observed at the magnetic resonance frequency. The transmission characteristics of SRR arrays with two different orientations were also presented by varying the incident angles of the plane wave. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
SOMFA on Large Diverse Xenoestrogen Dataset: The Effect of Superposition Algorithms and External Regression Tools
Authors: Korhonen Samuli‐Petrus , Tuppurainen Kari , Asikainen Arja , Laatikainen Reino , Peräkylä Mikael
Published: March 2007

Self‐Organizing Molecular Field Analysis (SOMFA) comes with a built‐in regression methodology, the Self‐Organizing Regression (SOR), instead of relying on external methods such as PLS. In our recent paper, we presented a proof of the equivalence among SOR, SIMPLS, and NIPALS with one principal component. Thus, the modest performance of SOMFA on complex datasets can be primarily attributed to the low performance of the SOMFA regression methodology. In this paper, the SOR, originally proposed along with the SOMFA analysis, and external multi‐component regression methods Multi‐Component SOR (MCSOR) and SIMPLS are used to evaluate the performance of SOMFA. The performance gain achieved by external regression tools is assessed using the TBG and SADLER benchmark datasets and a large and diverse xenoestrogen dataset containing activity data for five different estrogen receptors. The effect of polarizibility descriptor and two superposition techniques on the predictive ability of SOMFA is also evaluated. The results clearly indicate that for diverse datasets SOMFA clearly benefits from the use of external regression tools instead of the SOR regression. On the other hand, no clear difference was observed between the two superposition techniques. The polarizability descriptor generated predictive models as a stand‐alone descriptor but clear improvement in the accuracy of the prediction is achieved when the polarizability descriptor is combined with the electrostatic field descriptor.
Gross anatomy and characteristics of the reproductive system of the land snail Archachatina marginata ovum (Pfeiffer) during the breeding season
Authors: Egonmwan Rosemary I
Published: March 2007

The changes that occurred in the reproductive system during the breeding season of the land snail Archachatina marginata ovum (Pfeiffer) were investigated from April to July 2005 in collections obtained from snail hunters. These changes were divided into four stages (juvenile stage, mating readiness, egg production and post reproductive), which are described. The observations on the changes in the reproductive organs of A. marginata ovum suggest that the adult population is vulnerable during the breeding season. Management guidelines that will enhance commercial production of the snails are discussed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GSK3 alpha and GSK3 beta are necessary for axon formation
Authors: Garrido Juan José , Simón Diana , Varea Olga , Wandosell Francisco
Published: March 2007

The mechanisms that underlie axon formation are still poorly understood. GSK3 has been recently implicated in establishing the axon and in its elongation. We have used four different GSK3 inhibitors to determine the role of GSK3 activity in hippocampal neurons at different periods of time. Inhibition of GSK3 activity impairs axon formation. The “critical period” of this activity of GSK3 is at least the first 24 h since afterwards the inhibition of GSK3 does not compromise the process of elongation, although it exacerbates axon branching. Moreover, interference RNAs impeding the expression of the GSK3 alpha or beta isoforms in hippocampal neurons prevents an axon from forming.
Conjugated linoleic acid versus high-oleic acid sunflower oil: effects on energy metabolism, glucose tolerance, blood lipids, appetite and body composition in regularly exercising individuals
Authors: Lambert Estelle V. , Goedecke Julia H. , Bluett Kerry , Heggie Kerry , Claassen Amanda , Rae Dale E. , West Sacha , Dugas Jonathan , Dugas Lara , Meltzer Shelly , Charlton Karen , Mohede Inge
Published: March 2007

The aim of this study was to measure the effects of 12 weeks of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation on body composition, RER, RMR, blood lipid profiles, insulin sensitivity and appetite in exercising, normal-weight persons. In this double-blind, randomised, controlled trial, sixty-two non-obese subjects (twenty-five men, thirty-seven women) received either 3·9 g/d CLA or 3·9 g high-oleic acid sunflower oil for 12 weeks. Prior to and after 12 weeks of supplementation, oral glucose tolerance, blood lipid concentrations, body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and computerised tomography scans), RMR, resting and exercising RER and appetite were measured. There were no significant effects of CLA on body composition or distribution, RMR, RER or appetite. During the oral glucose tolerance tests, mean plasma insulin concentrations (0, 30, 120 min) were significantly lower (P = 0·04) in women who supplemented with CLA (24·3 (sd9·7) to 20·4 (sd8·5) μU/ml) compared to high-oleic acid sunflower oil control (23·7 (sd9·8) to 26·0 (sd8·8) μU/ml). Serum NEFA levels in response to oral glucose were attenuated in both men and women in the CLA (P = 0·001) compared to control group. However, serum total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol concentrations decreased in both groups and HDL-cholesterol concentrations decreased in women over 12 weeks (P = 0·001,P = 0·02,P = 0·02, respectively). In conclusion, mixed-isomer CLA supplementation had a favourable effect on serum insulin and NEFA response to oral glucose in non-obese, regularly exercising women, but there were no CLA-specific effects on body composition, energy expenditure or appetite.
Salivary immunoglobulin A response at rest and after exercise following a 48 h period of fluid and/or energy restriction
Authors: Oliver Samuel J. , Laing Stewart J. , Wilson Sally , Bilzon James L. J. , Walters Robert , Walsh Neil P.
Published: March 2007

The aim was to investigate the effects of a 48 h period of fluid, energy or combined fluid and energy restriction on salivary IgA (s-IgA) responses at rest and after exercise. Thirteen healthy males (age 21 (sem1) years) participated in four randomised 48 h trials. In the control trial participants received their estimated energy (12 154 (sem230) kJ/d) and water (3912 (sem140) ml/d) requirements. On fluid restriction (FR) participants received their energy requirements and 193 (sem19) ml water/d to drink and on energy restriction (ER) participants received their water requirements and 1214 (sem25) kJ/d. Fluid and energy restriction (F+ER) was a combination of FR and ER. After 48 h, participants performed a 30 min treadmill time trial (TT) followed by rehydration (0–2 h) and refeeding (2–6 h). Unstimulated saliva was collected at 0, 24 and 48 h, post-TT, and 2 and 6 h post-TT. Saliva flow rate (sflw) and s-IgA (ELISA) remained unchanged in control conditions and on ER. However, 48 h on FR decreased sflw (64 %) which most probably accounted for the increase in s-IgA concentration (P < 0·01). Despite a decrease in sflw (54 %), s-IgA concentration did not increase on F+ER, resulting in a decreased s-IgA secretion rate by 24 h (0 h: 20 (sem2); 24 h: 12 (sem2) μg/min;P < 0·01). Post-TT s-IgA secretion rate was not lower compared with 48 h on any trial. s-IgA secretion rate returned to within 0 h values by 6 h post-TT on F+ER. In conclusion, a 24–48 h period of combined F+ER decreased s-IgA secretion rate but normalisation occurred upon refeeding.
Effects of trans-10, cis-12 conjugated linoleic acid on the expression of uncoupling proteins in hamsters fed an atherogenic diet
Authors: Ribot Joan , Portillo Maria P. , Picó Catalina , Teresa Macarulla M. , Palou Andreu
Published: March 2007

It is known that conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) feeding decreases body adiposity but the mechanisms involved are not clear. The aim of this study was to analyse whether alterations in uncoupling protein (UCP) expression in white and brown adipose tissues (WAT and BAT, respectively) and in skeletal muscle may be responsible for the effect of trans-10, cis-12 CLA on the size of body fat depots in hamsters. Animals were divided into three groups and fed an atherogenic diet with different amounts of trans-10, cis-12 CLA (0 control, 0·5, or 1 g/100 g diet) for 6 weeks. CLA feeding reduced adipose depot weights, but had no effect on body weight. Leptin mRNA expression decreased in both subcutaneous and perirenal WAT depots, in accordance with lower adiposity, whereas resistin mRNA expression was not changed. Animals fed CLA had lower UCP1 mRNA levels in BAT (both doses of CLA) and in perirenal WAT (the low dose), and lower UCP3 mRNA levels in subcutaneous WAT (the high dose). UCP2 mRNA expression in WAT was not significantly affected by CLA feeding. Animals fed the high dose of CLA showed increased UCP3 and carnitine palmitoyl transferase-I (CPT-I) mRNA expression levels in skeletal muscle. In summary, induction of UCP1 or UCP2 in WAT and BAT is not likely to be responsible for the fat-reduction action of CLA, but the increased expression of UCP3 in skeletal muscle, together with a higher expression of CPT-I, may explain the previously reported effects of dietary CLA in lowering adiposity and increasing fatty acid oxidation by skeletal muscle.
Russian Anti-Semitism and the Scapegoating of Jews
Authors: GIBSON JAMES L. , HOWARD MARC MORJÉ
Published: March 2007

Throughout Russian history, Jews have often been blamed when turmoil has arisen in the country. It is surprising, therefore, that Russian politics in the 1990s focused so little on Jews as a source of the political and economic crises afflicting the country. This article investigates anti-Jewish attitudes in Russia over time and cross-sectionally, carefully scrutinizing the hypothesis that perceptions of economic, social and political upheaval activate latent authoritarianism into anti-Semitism. Little if any support is found for the hypothesis and therefore it is argued that scapegoat theory, as currently constituted and applied to Jews, is too simplistic to be useful. Russian Jews were not subject to intolerance and repression in the 1990s because anti-Semitic beliefs were not widespread enough to be used successfully by political entrepreneurs seeking advantage through attacks on Jews.
Organized Civil Society and Democratic Legitimacy in the European Union
Authors: GREENWOOD JUSTIN
Published: March 2007

Structural limitations in models of representative democracy have enhanced the space for other mechanisms of legitimacy in the European Union, including participatory models in which organized civil society interests are significant players. To some observers, such actors are likely only to aggravate already problematic input legitimacy. A range of less hostile approaches also prevail, from a neutral standpoint through to those sharing the perspective of EU policy practice where such actors are seen as a complementary mechanism of democratic input. Whilst concerns about the impact of asymmetries of power between different types of organized civil society interests arise as potential issues in any democratic setting, a particularly vigorous neo-pluralist regime, in which EU institutions actively create and develop as well as empower citizen interest groups, effectively mitigates these asymmetries in an EU context, although it can give rise to paradoxical tensions of elitism.
Rapid-prototyped temporal bone and inner-ear models replicated by adjusting computed tomography thresholds
Authors: Suzuki M , Hagiwara A , Ogawa Y , Ono H
Published: March 2007

Purpose:

This study aimed to investigate the validity of adjusting computed tomography thresholds in order to replicate a temporal bone model suitable for dissection training and education.

Materials and methods:

A simulated three-dimensional model of a human temporal bone was prototyped using selective laser sintering. The powder layers were laser-fused, based on detailed computed tomography data, and accumulated to create a three-dimensional structure. The computed tomography threshold value of the stapes was modified on standard triangular language file in order to replicate the stapes. The intensity value was determined to select the fluid lumen of the inner ear and the bone surface, in order to replicate the inner ear.

Results:

The model could be shaved, using surgical instruments, in the same manner as during real surgery. The stapes could be reproduced, making this model even more realistic than a previous version. The inner ear was recreated, along with the surrounding bony wall and the ossicles.

Conclusion:

This model facilitates dissection training and easy understanding of the relation between the labyrinth and the surrounding structures.
Eigenvalue asymptotics for an elliptic boundary problem
Authors: Faierman M. , Möller M.
Published: March 2007

We consider an elliptic boundary problem in a bounded region Ω ⊂ ℝn wherein the spectral parameter is multiplied by a real-valued weight function with the property that it, together with its reciprocal, is essentially bounded in Ω. The problem is considered under limited smoothness assumptions and under an ellipticity with parameter condition. Then, fixing our attention upon the operator induced on L2(Ω) by the boundary problem under null boundary conditions, we establish results pertaining to the asymptotic behaviour of the eigenvalues of this operator under weaker smoothness assumptions than have hitherto been supposed.
On a generalized two-fluid Hele-Shaw flow
Authors: ENTOV V. M. , ETINGOF P.
Published: March 2007

Generalized two-phase fluid flows in a Hele-Shaw cell are considered. It is assumed that the flow is driven by the fluid pressure gradient and an external potential field, for example, an electric field. Both the pressure field and the external field may have singularities in the flow domain. Therefore, combined action of these two fields brings into existence some new features, such as non-trivial equilibrium shapes of boundaries between the two fluids, which can be studied analytically. Some examples are presented. It is argued, that the approach and results may find some applications in the theory of fluids flow through porous media and microfluidic devices controlled by electric field.
A dynamic soil water threshold for vegetation water stress derived from stomatal conductance models
Authors: Emanuel Ryan E. , D'Odorico Paolo , Epstein Howard E.
Published: March 2007

In many terrestrial ecosystems, vegetation experiences limitation by different resources at different times. These resources include, among others, light, nutrients, and water. Frequently, however, leaf‐level modeling frameworks that unite these limitations rely on empirical functions to scale stomatal conductance as a function of water stress. These functions use prescribed values of soil water content to mark the transition between water‐stressed and unstressed conditions without accounting for the dependence of such a water content threshold on atmospheric and hydrologic conditions and nutrient availability. To address the phenomenon of a variable threshold to water stress, we combine an existing water‐limited stomatal conductance model with an existing assimilation (photosynthesis)‐limited stomatal conductance model. In this manner, we simulate variable controls on stomatal conductance and use a combination of the two models to define the threshold at which soil water content becomes limiting to transpiration. Modeled plant processes are used to define this water stress threshold as functionally dependent upon local environmental conditions (light, temperature, and atmospheric vapor pressure), parameters representing different vegetation types, and nutrient status. Simulations demonstrate that as environmental conditions become more favorable for assimilation, the likelihood of water stress increases. Specifically, there exist ranges of leaf temperature, light, and atmospheric humidity for which water stress is maximized.
Submarine volcanic morphology of the western Galápagos based on EM300 bathymetry and MR1 side‐scan sonar
Authors: Glass Jennifer B. , Fornari Daniel J. , Hall Hillary F. , Cougan Allison A. , Berkenbosch Heidi A. , Holmes Mark L. , White Scott M. , De La Torre Giorgio
Published: March 2007

A compilation of high‐resolution EM300 multibeam bathymetric and existing MR1 side‐scan sonar data was used to investigate the volcanic morphology of the flanks of the western Galápagos Islands. The data portray an assortment of constructional volcanic features on the shallow to deep submarine flanks of Fernandina, Isabela, and Santiago Islands, including rift zones and groups of cones that are considered to be the primary elements in constructing the archipelagic apron. Ten submarine rift zones were mapped, ranging in length from 5 to 20 km, comparable in length to western Canary Island rift zones but significantly shorter than Hawaiian submarine rift zones. A detailed analysis of the northwestern Fernandina submarine rift, including calculated magnetization from a surface‐towed magnetic study, suggests that the most recent volcanism has focused at the shallow end of the rift. Small submarine volcanic cones with various morphologies (e.g., pointed, cratered, and occasionally breached) are common in the submarine western Galápagos both on rift zones and on the island flanks where no rifts are present. At depths greater than ∼3000 m, large lava flow fields in regions of low bathymetric relief have been previously identified as a common seafloor feature in the western Galápagos by Geist et al. (2006); however, their source(s) remained enigmatic. The new EM300 data show that a number of the deep lava flows originate from small cones along the mid‐lower portion of the NW submarine rift of Fernandina, suggesting that the deep flows owe their origin, at least in part, to submarine rift zone volcanism.
Impact of high potential vorticity intrusions into the tropical upper troposphere in South Atlantic on precipitation over northeast Brazil
Authors: Rao V. Brahmananda , Franchito Sergio H. , Barbosa Tatiane Felinto
Published: March 2007

Interannual variations of high potential vorticity intrusions at 10°S in the upper troposphere during NDJFM are shown to be negatively correlated with rainfall over northern northeast Brazil (NEB). That is, higher intrusions associated with stronger equatorial westerlies may provoke droughts. Higher intrusions lead to the formation of an anomalous cyclonic vortex over NEB, which causes convergence in the upper troposphere and sinking motion at lower levels. The number of intrusions in NDJFM has highest correlation, significant at 99% confidence level, with the rainfall of the principal rainy season in FMAM.
Assessing short‐ and long‐time displacements in the Venice coastland by synthetic aperture radar interferometric point target analysis
Authors: Teatini Pietro , Strozzi Tazio , Tosi Luigi , Wegmüller Urs , Werner Charles , Carbognin Laura
Published: March 2007

The Venice Lagoon in Italy is a unique environment vulnerable to loss in surface elevation relative to the mean sea level. We present detailed synthetic aperture radar (SAR) interferometric analyses on persistent point targets for the historical center of Venice, the tourist area of Sottomarina, and the Zennare farmland close to the southern lagoon edge. The selected areas are characterized by different degrees of development and our analyses show the remarkable capability of SAR Interferometric Point Target Analysis (IPTA) to map land displacement rates in densely urbanized zones and to detect movement information on isolated structures with a mm/year accuracy. A detailed analysis of the time series from 1992 to 2000 provided by IPTA shows that the vertical component of the measured displacements are the superposition of a short timescale, generally seasonal, movement on the order of 1 cm that is likely related to the fluctuation of environmental variables (temperature, piezometric head in the aquifer system underlying the lagoon, sea/lagoon water level) and a long‐term ground deformation associated with building construction, the geomorphology of the area, and the human development of natural resources. If Venice is confirmed to be generally stable, significant long‐term subsidence on the order of 4 mm/year is detected at the Sottomarina coastland. The highest displacement rates, of up to 8–10 mm/year, are recorded in the farmland bounding the lagoon margin where the movements are found to be highly site‐specific.
The emerging pharmacotherapeutic significance of the breast cancer resistance protein (ABCG2)
Authors: Hardwick L J A , Velamakanni S , van Veen H W
Published: March 2007

The breast cancer resistance protein (also termed ABCG2) is an ATP‐binding cassette transporter, which mediates the extrusion of toxic compounds from the cell, and which was originally identified in relation to the development of multidrug resistance of cancer cells. ABCG2 interacts with a range of substrates including clinical drugs but also substances such as sterols, porphyrins and a variety of dietary compounds. Physiological functions of ABCG2 at both cellular and systemic levels are reviewed. For example, ABCG2 expression in erythrocytes may function in porphyrin homeostasis. In addition, ABCG2 expression at apical membranes of cells such as hepatocytes, enterocytes, endothelial and syncytiotrophoblast cells may correlate to protective barrier or secretory functions against environmental or clinically administered substances. ABCG2 also appears influential in the inter‐patient variation and generally poor oral bioavailability of certain chemotherapeutic drugs such as topotecan. As this often precludes an oral drug administration strategy, genotypic and environmental factors altering ABCG2 expression and activity are considered. Finally, clinical modulation of ABCG2 activity is discussed. Some of the more recent strategies include co‐administered modulating agents, hammerhead ribozymes or antisense oligonucleotides, and with specificity in cell targeting, these may be used to reduce drug resistance and increase drug bioavailability to improve the profile of chemotherapeutic efficacy versus toxicity. While many such strategies remain in relative infancy at present, increased knowledge of modulators of ABCG2 could hold the key to novel approaches in medical treatment.

British Journal of Pharmacology(2007)151, 163–174. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707218
The fatter the better? Perivascular adipose tissue attenuates vascular contraction through different mechanisms
Authors: Brandes R P
Published: March 2007

Adipose tissue releases several hormones and autacoids and expansion of the adipose tissue and excessive obesity is a risk factor for hypertension. Perivascular adipose tissue, on the other hand, has been reported to lower the vascular tone through the release of a transferable, thermosensitive, non‐lipid factor. In this issue of the British Journal of Pharmacology, Gao et al. (2007) report that a factor generated by the adipose tissue also stimulates the generation of NO by endothelium and that NO is the predominant mediator of adipose tissue‐induced relaxation in endothelium‐intact vessels (88 words).

British Journal of Pharmacology (2007) 151, 303–304; doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707229
Quantifying HTLV‐I dynamics
Authors: Asquith Becca , Bangham Charles R M
Published: March 2007

Despite significant advances in our understanding of the immune response to persistent viruses like human T‐cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV‐I), many important questions remain unanswered. Mathematical modelling enables us to interpret and synthesise diverse experimental data in new ways and thus can contribute to our understanding. Here, we review recent advances in mathematical modelling of HTLV‐I infection and illustrate how mathematics has enabled us to identify factors that determine an individual's viral burden and risk of developing HTLV‐I‐associated diseases.
Cyclodextrins in Chromatography
Authors: Cserháti Tibor , Forgacs Esther
Published: March 2007

Cyclodextrins can form complexes with a wide variety of organic and inorganic compounds, a property which can prove useful when trying to separate complex mixtures. This book provides an up-to-date and critical evaluation of the application of cyclodextrins in many fields of chromatography (including thin layer, gas-liquid, high performance liquid and supercritical fluid chromatography; capillary electrophoresis; and isotacophoresis). Whilst mainly practical in nature, the book also looks briefly at the theoretical background for the various techniques. Any professional working with chromatography will welcome this unique book as both a practical compilation of methods and a source of reference to the literature regarding the use and impact of cyclodextrins in chromatography.
Introduction to Glass Science and Technology
Authors: Shelby James E
Published: March 2007

This book provides a concise and inexpensive introduction for an undergraduate course in glass science and technology. The level of the book has deliberately been maintained at the introductory level to avoid confusion of the student by inclusion of more advanced material, and is unique in that its text is limited to the amount suitable for a one term course for students in materials science, ceramics or inorganic chemistry. The contents cover the fundamental topics of importance in glass science and technology, including glass formation, crystallization, phase separation and structure of glasses. Additional chapters discuss the most important properties of glasses, including discussion of physical, optical, electrical, chemical and mechanical properties. A final chapter provides an introduction to a number of methods used to form technical glasses, including glass sheet, bottles, insulation fibre, optical fibres and other common commercial products. In addition, the book contains discussion of the effects of phase separation and crystallization on the properties of glasses, which is neglected in other texts. Although intended primarily as a textbook, Introduction to Glass Science and Technology will also be invaluable to the engineer or scientist who desires more knowledge regarding the formation, properties and production of glass.
Life Death and Nitric Oxide
Authors: Butler Anthony R , Nicholson Rosslyn , Nolan K B
Published: March 2007

Designated 'Molecule of the Year' in 1992 in recognition of its many biological roles, nitric oxide has wide significance in the world around us and the story of nitric oxide is still unfolding. This small and seemingly innocent molecule has for many years been known to play a significant role in both the creation of photochemical smogs and in the nitrogen cycle. It has an interesting chemistry as a metal ligand, and the bonding within the nitric oxide molecule has been extensively studied. More recently, the molecule has been in the spotlight for the role it plays in controlling blood flow, in the immune system and in brain activity. Life, Death and Nitric Oxide covers many of the topics relating to nitric oxide, from smog and catalytic converters to tumour growth, blood flow and Viagra, with the aim of finding out why such a simple molecule can do so much.
Principles of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry
Authors: Laye Peter G , Warrington S B ,   Thermal Methods Group, Heal G Roger , Price Duncan M , Wilson Richard
Published: March 2007

The use of thermal and calorimetric methods has shown rapid growth over the last two decades, in an increasingly wide range of applications. In addition, a number of powerful new techniques have been developed. This book supplies a concise and readable account of the principles, experimental apparatus and practical procedures used in thermal analysis and calorimetric methods of analysis. Brief accounts of the basic theory are reinforced with detailed applications of the methods and contemporary developments. Also included is information on standard test methods and manufacturers. Written by acknowledged experts, Principles of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry is up-to-date, wide-ranging and practical. It will be an important source of information for many levels of readership in a variety of areas, from students and lecturers through to industrial and laboratory staff and consultants.
The Chemistry of Explosives
Authors: Akhavan Jacqueline
Published: March 2007

"Revised and expanded to reflect new developments in the field, this book outlines the basic principles required to understand the chemical processes of explosives. The Chemistry of Explosives provides an overview of the history of explosives, taking the reader to future developments. The text on the classification of explosive materials contains much data on the physical parameters of primary and secondary explosives. The explosive processes of deflagration and detonation, including the theory of 'hotspots' for the detonation process, are introduced and many examples are provided in the detailed description on the thermochemistry of explosives. New material includes coverage of the latest explosive compositions, such as high temperature explosives, nitrocubanes, energetic polymers, plasticizers and insensitive munitions (IM). This concise, readable book is ideal for 'A' level students and new graduates with no previous knowledge of explosive materials. With detailed information on a vast range of explosives in tabular form and an extensive bibliography, this book will also be useful to anyone needing succinct information on the subject."
Practical Environmental Analysis
Authors: Radojevic Miroslav , Bashkin Vladimir N
Published: March 2007

New techniques, improved understanding and changes in regulations relating to environmental analysis means that students, technicians and lecturers alike need an up-to-date guide to practical environmental analysis. This unique book provides detailed instructions for practical experiments in environmental analysis. The comprehensive coverage includes the chemical analysis of important pollutants in air, water, soil and plant tissue, and the experiments generally require only basic laboratory equipment and instrumentation. The content is supported by theoretical material explaining, amongst other concepts, the principles behind each method and the importance of various pollutants. Also included are suggestions for projects and worked examples. Appendices cover environmental standards, practical safety and laboratory practice. Building on the foundations laid by the highly acclaimed first edition, this new edition has been revised and updated to include information on new monitoring techniques, the Air Quality Index, internet resources and professional ethics. Like its predecessor, this informative text is certain to be valued as an indispensable guide to practical environmental analysis by students on a variety of science courses and their lecturers. Reviews of the first edition: "I strongly urge academics in chemistry, biology, botany, soil science, geography and environmental science departments to give [this book] serious consideration as a course text." Malcolm Cresser, Environment Department, University of York, UK "Destined to become a course text for many university courses ... a high quality, informative introductory text ... there should be multiple copies on most university's library shelves." Environmental Conservation
Electron Paramagnetic Resonance
Authors: Becker D , Collinson David , Chiesa Mario , Kappl Reinhard , Khan Nadeem , Eaton Sandra S , Smith Graham , Riedi Peter
Published: March 2007

Specialist Periodical Reports provide systematic and critical review coverage in major areas of chemical research. Compiled by teams of leading authorities in the relevant subject, the series creates a unique service for the active research chemist with regular critical in-depth accounts of progress in particular areas of chemistry. Subject coverage of all volumes is very similar and publication is on an annual or biennial basis. As EPR continues to find new applications in virtually all areas of modern science, including physics, chemistry, biology and materials science, this series caters not only for experts in the field, but also those wishing to gain a general overview of EPR applications in a given area.
In situ molecular identification of the Ntf4 MAPK expression sites in maturing and germinating pollen
Authors: Coronado Maria‐Jose , Testillano Pilar S. , Wilson Cathal , Vicente Oscar , Heberle‐Bors Erwin , Risueño Maria‐Carmen
Published: March 2007

Background information. MAPKs (mitogen‐activated protein kinases) are involved in the transduction of different signals in eukaryotes. They regulate different processes, such as differentiation, proliferation and stress response. MAPKs act through the phosphorylation cascade, being the last element that phosphorylates the final effector of the cell response. They are activated when their threonine and tyrosine residues are phosphorylated. Ntf4, a MAPK with a molecular mass of 45 kDa, has been reported to be expressed in pollen and seeds. Biochemical studies have indicated that the expression and the activation of Ntf4 is regulated during pollen maturation, although an increase of the activation is observed when the pollen is hydrated, just at the beginning of the germination. However, nothing is known about its subcellular localization.

Results. In the present study, the in situ expression and subcellular localization of Ntf4 have been analysed during the tobacco pollen developmental pathway. Cryosections, freeze‐substitution and cryo‐embedding in Lowicryl K4M were used as processing techniques for subsequent immunofluorescence, immunogold labelling and in situ hybridization assays. During pollen maturation, Ntf4 showed an increase in expression, as demonstrated by in situ hybridization, and specific subcellular distributions. We found that the protein was expressed from mid bicellular pollen stage until the pollen was mature. In germinating pollen, the protein increased after the initiation of germination. Translocation of the protein to the nucleus was found at specific stages; the presence of Ntf4 in the nucleus was found in the last stage of the pollen maturation and in germinating pollen. Double immunofluorescence and immunogold labelling with anti‐Ntf4 (AbC4) and anti‐P‐MAPK (phosphorylated MAPK) antibodies revealed the co‐localization of both epitopes in the nucleus at late developmental stages.

Conclusions. The temporal and spatial pattern of the expression sites of Ntf4 has been characterized during pollen development, indicating that Ntf4 is a ‘late gene’ that is upregulated during maturation and germination, with a possible role in the gametophytic function. The translocation of the Ntf4 protein from the cytoplasm to the nucleus at late pollen developmental stages, and its co‐localization with the P‐MAPK epitope in several nuclear sites, indicates a relationship between the Ntf4 nuclear translocation and its active state.
Protein disulfide-isomerase mediates delivery of nitric oxide redox derivatives into platelets
Authors: Bell Susannah E. , Shah Chirag M. , Gordge Michael P.
Published: March 2007

S-nitrosothiol compounds are important mediators of NO signalling and can give rise to various redox derivatives of NO: nitrosonium cation (NO+), nitroxyl anion (NO−) and NO• radical. Several enzymes and transporters have been implicated in the intracellular delivery of NO from S-nitrosothiols. In the present study we have investigated the role of GPx (glutathione peroxidase), the L-AT (L-amino acid transporter) system and PDI (protein disulfide-isomerase) in the delivery of NO redox derivatives into human platelets.

Washed human platelets were treated with inhibitors of GPx, L-AT and PDI prior to exposure to donors of NO redox derivatives (S-nitrosoglutathione, Angeli's salt and diethylamine NONOate). Rapid delivery of NO-related signalling into platelets was monitored by cGMP accumulation and DAF-FM (4-amino-5-methylamino-2′7′-difluorofluorescein) fluorescence.

All NO redox donors produced both a cGMP response and DAF-FM fluorescence in target platelets. NO delivery was blocked by inhibition of PDI in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, inhibition of GPx and L-AT had only a minimal effect on NO-related signalling.

PDI activity is therefore required for the rapid delivery into platelets of NO-related signals from donors of all NO redox derivatives. GPx and the L-AT system appeared to be unimportant in rapid NO signalling by the compounds used in the present study. This does not, however, exclude a possible role during exposure of cells to other S-nitrosothiol compounds, such as S-nitrosocysteine. These results further highlight the importance of PDI in mediating the action of a wide range of NO-related signals.
Exploring the Crisis Readiness Perceptions of Hotel Managers in the UK
Authors: Rousaki Barbara , Alcott Peter
Published: March 2007

Organisations such as hotels ‘live’ and ‘evolve’ around and in an environment where stability is no longer the norm. In such a volatile environment, it is crucial for hospitality leaders to have a well-reasoned strategic plan, as well as to be flexible and farsighted enough to be aware when alterations to it are required. Preparing for the unseen calls for versatility, which is the very foundation of organisational crisis management. This exploratory study applied the construct ‘crisis readiness’ proposed by Reilly (1987) with the purpose of examining the relationship of organisation size, prior experience with crisis and managers' job level with crisis readiness within the lodging industry in the United Kingdom. The study is based on questionnaires sent to individual hospitality managers about their perceptions of their firms' readiness for crises. An online survey instrument was developed to measure perceived crisis readiness, from its managers' perspective. In the sample of hotel managers surveyed, the 93 respondents reported on agreement that their organisation is ready for crisis and moderate likelihood of their organisation experiencing a crisis. The study found strong support for the hypothesis that prior experience with crisis is associated with increasing crisis readiness perceptions and weak support for the hypotheses that increasing size and higher job levels are associated with higher perceived crisis readiness scores.

Data on these relationships are useful in determining which factors play a part in improving a hotel's crisis management plans and offer suggestions for those hotels interested in increasing their readiness for crisis.
Lesbians as Tourists: Poor Relations of a Poor Relation
Authors: Hughes Howard L.
Published: March 2007

This paper states the case for further research into tourism by lesbians — besides making good a gap in market knowledge it may contribute to further understanding of diversity of society, issues of sexual orientation and inequality. Related literature that may contribute to an understanding of holidays by lesbians is reviewed and it is postulated that holiday profiles will differ from those of gay men and of heterosexual women. The (limited) current information on holiday profiles is presented; it suggests that profiles differ from those of gay men. It is concluded that holidays of lesbians are likely to be a consequence of gender as much as of sexual orientation; further research is necessary to explore this.
Decoherence and quantum-classical master equation dynamics
Authors: Grunwald Robbie , Kapral Raymond
Published: March 2007

The conditions under which quantum-classical Liouville dynamics may be reduced to a master equation are investigated. Systems that can be partitioned into a quantum-classical subsystem interacting with a classical bath are considered. Starting with an exact non-Markovian equation for the diagonal elements of the density matrix, an evolution equation for the subsystem density matrix is derived. One contribution to this equation contains the bath average of a memory kernel that accounts for all coherences in the system. It is shown to be a rapidly decaying function, motivating a Markovian approximation on this term in the evolution equation. The resulting subsystem density matrix equation is still non-Markovian due to the fact that bath degrees of freedom have been projected out of the dynamics. Provided the computation of nonequilibrium average values or correlation functions is considered, the non-Markovian character of this equation can be removed by lifting the equation into the full phase space of the system. This leads to a trajectory description of the dynamics where each fictitious trajectory accounts for decoherence due to the bath degrees of freedom. The results are illustrated by computations of the rate constant of a model nonadiabatic chemical reaction.
Neutron diffraction analysis of magnetic ordering in YSr2Cu2RuO8
Authors: Yelon W. B. , Cai Q. , Lamsal Jagat , Blackstead H. A. , Kornecki M. , Awana V. , Kishan H. , Balamurugan S. , Takayama-Muromachi E.
Published: March 2007

The superconducting ruthenocuprates RESr2Cu2RuO8 (where RE is a rare earth or Y) have been interpreted as ferromagnetic superconductors, based on a strong response to applied field at the Ru Néel temperature (around 130K). However, neutron diffraction measurements on the Gd compound by Lynn et al. [Phys. Rev. B 61, 1214964 (2000)] (using a separated isotope) show evidence only of antiferromagnetic order, while very limited data by Takagiwa et al. [J. Phys. Soc. Jpn. 70, 333 (2001)] on the Y compound show one antiferromagnetic Bragg peak and possible coexisting ferromagnetism. We have studied a sample of YSr2Cu2.1Ru0.9O7.9 prepared by a high pressure-high temperature route. Temperature dependent neutron powder diffraction shows antiferromagnetic order, manifested by the observation of the 12, 12, 12 and 12, 12, 32 reflections, which appear at 135K [as suggested by the superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) data]. Their intensities at the lowest temperature are consistent with a c-axis orientation of the Ru magnetic moments. Although the lowest order nuclear Bragg peak shows a small intensity increase as the temperature is lowered, this is attributed to magnetic ordering of the Cu planes and not to the presence of a ferromagnetic component, in agreement with the polarized neutron data of Lynn et al. [Phys. Rev. B. 61, 1214964 (2000)] Magnetic resonance and SQUID data on the same sample (to be reported elsewhere) show a complex picture, associated with Cu magnetic ordering.
Giant uncompensated magnetization and exchange bias in FexNi1−xF2∕Co bilayers
Authors: Cheon Miyeon , Liu Zhongyuan , Lederman David
Published: March 2007

Fe x Ni 1 − x F 2 is an antiferromagnet with a magnetic anisotropy that can be varied continuously by changing the concentration x. In studying the exchange bias of a polycrystalline Co grown on FexNi1−xF2 (110) epitaxial films, a giant uncompensated magnetization, of up to 16% of the Co magnetization, was observed in the hysteresis loops, whose sign was correlated with the sign of the exchange bias field HE. The exchange bias was measured as a function of temperature after cooling the samples in a field of 2kOe from above the Néel temperature. The uncompensated magnetization had a large coercivity and an exchange bias field HEU of its own. The uncompensated magnetization of the x=0.05 and x=0.21 samples had a negative HEU while that of the x=0.49 sample was positive. The uncompensated magnetization could be reversed by applying a large field at low temperatures, which also reversed the sign of the exchange bias.
Fluctuations and discrete particle noise in gyrokinetic simulation of drift waves
Authors: Jenkins Thomas G. , Lee W. W.
Published: March 2007

The relevance of the gyrokinetic fluctuation-dissipation theorem (FDT) to thermal equilibrium and nonequilibrium states of the gyrokinetic plasma is explored, with particular focus being given to the contribution of weakly damped normal modes to the fluctuation spectrum. It is found that the fluctuation energy carried in the normal modes exhibits the proper scaling with particle count (as predicted by the FDT in thermal equilibrium) even in the presence of drift waves, which grow linearly and attain a nonlinearly saturated steady state. This favorable scaling is preserved, and the saturation amplitude of the drift wave unaffected, for parameter regimes in which the normal modes become strongly damped and introduce a broad spectrum of discreteness-induced background noise in frequency space.
Analysis of the size effect in electroplated fine copper wires and a realistic assessment to model copper resistivity
Authors: Zhang W. , Brongersma S. H. , Li Z. , Li D. , Richard O. , Maex K.
Published: March 2007

The size effect in electroplated copper wires has been widely studied recently. However, there is no consensus on the role of various scattering mechanisms. Therefore, an in-depth analysis to reveal the origin of the size effect is needed. In this article, we study the resistivity of fine copper wires whose feature sizes shrink in two dimensions. It is shown that the residual resistivity (at 5 K) increases with decreasing wire width or height and the temperature-dependent resistivity slightly deviates from that of bulk copper. This is mainly attributed to surface scattering rather than grain boundary scattering. In fact, the influence of grain boundary scattering in these well annealed copper wires is relatively small. In addition, for copper wires with a constant height, a linear dependence of the copper resistivity on 1/width (w) or 1/cross-sectional area (A), namely ρ=ρic+c*∕w (or ρ=ρic+c**∕A), is derived from the classic surface and grain boundary scattering models and validated experimentally. In this simple description, the contributions of different scattering mechanisms, such as surface reflectivity, p, and grain boundary reflection coefficient, R, defect and impurity density, combine together in parameters of ρic and c* (or c**). Especially, c* is a good indicator of scattering strength, from which one can quantitatively analyze the impact of nonsurface scattering contribution with a reference slope of c*=32.14.
Microstructural and optical properties of Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 thin film deposited by pulsed laser deposition for low loss waveguide applications
Authors: Gaidi M. , Chaker M. , Ndione P. F. , Morandotti R. , Bessaïs B.
Published: March 2007

Barium strontium titanate (Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 or BST) films were grown on SiO2∕Si substrate by means of a reactive pulsed laser deposition technique. The microstructural and surface morphology of BST films were characterized by x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Films deposited at 400°C were found to be amorphous and present wide cracks. The crystallization of the films was induced by annealing at 600°C. The BST films deposited at 550°C present a cubic perovskite structure with a dense and smooth surface. The optical constants (n and k as a function of wavelength) of the films were obtained using variable angle spectroscopic ellipsometry in the UV-vis-NIR regions. Microfabricated BST∕SiO2∕Si ridged waveguides were patterned using UV photolithography and high-density plasma etching. The propagation and loss characteristics at the telecommunication wavelength of 1.55μm were investigated using top-view scattering and Fabry-Pérot resonance methods. For specific ridge widths, we obtained single-mode propagation with relatively low losses (∼1dB∕cm), thereby demonstrating the strong potential of BST films for guided-wave components for advanced optical integrated systems.