bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tunable dual-band resonators for communication systems
Authors: Girbau David , Lázaro Antonio , Pérez Albert , Martínez Esther , Pradell Lluís , Villarino Ramón
Published: June 2010

This paper proposes the design of tunable dual-band resonators for multi-band multi-standard systems. The main objective is to provide frequency tunability in the second resonance while maintaining the first resonance fixed. To this end, two tunable resonators are proposed: the capacitive-loaded stepped-impedance resonator and the capacitive-loaded hole resonator. The work is divided into two main parts. In the first part, an in-depth analysis of the capacitive-loaded stepped-impedance resonator (SIR) structure is done; it provides analytical closed-form design equations that ease the resonator design in contrast to the several approaches available in the literature to date. The analysis is also particularized to the case of the capacitive-loaded constant-section resonator and extended to the capacitive-loaded hole resonator. In addition, a study of the quality factor in capacitively tuned SIRs is also provided. In the second part, resonators are integrated in three dual-band tunable filters, one based on the capacitive-loaded constant-section resonator, another one on the capacitive-loaded SIR, and finally on the capacitive-loaded hole resonator. Two of these filters demonstrate operation in wireless local-area network frequency bands, with a fixed first band at 2.45 GHz and a second band which can be tuned between 5.75 and 5.25 GHz.
Use of White Beans instead of Red Beans May Improve Iron Bioavailability from a Tanzanian Complementary Food Mixture
Authors: Lungaho Mercy G. , Glahn Raymond P.
Published: June 2010

In the study presented, an in vitro digestion/Caco-2 cell culture model was used to assess the amount of bioavailable iron from a modified Tanzanian complementary food formulation. The main objective of the study was to determine whether a change from red beans to white beans in the complementary food recipe would improve iron bioavailability from the mixture, as recent studies had indicated that iron bioavailability in white beans is significantly higher compared to that in the colored beans. The white beans had a significantly higher (p<0.0001) amount of ferritin formation (13.54 ng/mg) when compared to all other porridge ingredients including the red beans (2.3 ng/mg), and it is plausible that the complementary food formulated with the white beans may be superior to that formulated with the red beans, with reference to iron bioavailability. The results are important as they suggest that substitution of complementary food ingredients with high anti-nutrient concentrations with those that have lower anti-nutrient concentrations may improve iron bioavailability from complementary food home-recipes.
Plasma Retinol and Association with Socio-Demographic and Dietary Characteristics of Free-living Older Persons: the Bordeaux Sample of the Three-City Study
Authors: Féart Catherine , Siewe Aisha , Samieri Cécilia , Peuchant Evelyne , Helmer Catherine , Alfos Serge , Pallet Véronique , Barberger-Gateau Pascale
Published: June 2010

The objective was to describe retinol plasma concentration and its association with socio-demographic characteristics and dietary habits in French older persons. The study population consisted of 1664 subjects aged 65 + from Bordeaux (France), included in the Three-City cohort. Retinol plasma concentration was determined in fasting blood samples. Dietary assessment was performed by a food frequency questionnaire allowing estimation of weekly intake of dietary sources of vitamin A or provitamin A. The weekly number of glasses of alcohol was also recorded. Age, sex, marital status, educational and income levels, body-mass index (BMI), and smoking were registered. Cross-sectional analysis of the association between plasma retinol and socio-demographic characteristics and dietary habits was performed by multilinear regression. Mean plasma retinol was close to the homeostatically regulated concentration of 2.0 µmol/L but ranged from 0.35 to 6.77 µmol/L. It was higher in women and divorced or separated individuals, and increased with income but not with age or educational level. Plasma retinol was positively and independently associated with the frequency of offal consumption and to the number of glasses of alcohol consumed per week. These results allow targeting older individuals who are at risk of either excessive or deficient vitamin A status and who should benefit from dietary counseling.
No Effects of Three-week Consumption of a Green Tea Extract on Time Trial Performance in Endurance-trained Men
Authors: Eichenberger Philipp , Mettler Samuel , Arnold Myrtha , Colombani Paolo C.
Published: June 2010

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of three-week consumption of green tea extract (GTE) supplementation on time trial performance and metabolism during cycling in endurance athletes. Nine endurance-trained men participated in this double-blind and placebo-controlled cross-over study. At the end of the supplementation period with GTE (159 mg/day total catechins) or placebo, respectively, subjects cycled at 50 % of the individual maximal power output for 2 hours, followed by a 30-minute time trial. Respiratory gas exchange, fatty acids, 3-β-hydroxybutyrate, lactate, glucose, interleukin-6, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, creatine kinase, and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured 1 hour before, during, and 1 hour after the exercise test. Blood lipids were measured at rest before cycling. There was no significant effect on performance, energy metabolism, or any other measured parameter, except for CRP, which was significantly reduced (p = 0.045) after GTE supplementation compared to placebo. GTE supplementation did not affect time trial performance and energy metabolism in endurance-trained men in the non-fasting state. Further studies with athletes, particularly in the fed state, but with higher GTE doses, are needed to address the question whether green tea may influence energy metabolism and performance in athletes.
Hypoglycemic and Antioxidant Effects of Honey Supplementation in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Omotayo Erejuwa O. , Gurtu Sunil , Sulaiman Siti Amrah , Ab Wahab Mohd Suhaimi , K.N.S Sirajudeen , Salleh Md. Salzihan Md.
Published: June 2010

Objectives: Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the development of diabetic complications. The aims of this study were to investigate whether honey could reduce hyperglycemia and ameliorate oxidative stress in kidneys of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Diabetes was induced by a single dose of STZ (60 mg/kg; i. p.). Diabetic rats were randomly grouped and administered distilled water (0.5 mL/day) and honey (0.2 g/kg/day, 1.2 g/kg/day and 2.4 g/kg/day) by oral gavage for four weeks. Each group consisted of six rats. Results: Total antioxidant status (TAS), activities of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) were significantly reduced, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was up-regulated in kidneys of diabetic rats. Lipid peroxidation (TBARS) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) were significantly elevated while body weight was reduced in diabetic rats. Honey significantly increased body weight, TAS, activities of CAT, GPx, GR, and GST in diabetic rats. It significantly restored SOD activity, and reduced FPG and TBARS levels in diabetic rats. Histopathological examinations of the kidneys revealed that mesangial matrix expansion and thickening of glomerular basement membrane were reduced in the honey-treated diabetic rats. Conclusions: Honey exerts a hypoglycemic effect and ameliorates oxidative stress in kidneys of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.
Einsatz von Diuretika bei der akut dekompensierten Herzinsuffizienz
Authors: Akin  , Ince  , Rauchhaus  , Kische  , Rehders  , Wenzel  , Nienaber  , Chatterjee
Published: June 2010

Patienten mit einer akut dekompensierten Herzinsuffizienz präsentieren sich, als Folge des volumenbedingten erhöhten intrakardialen Füllungsdruckes, mit Ödemen sowie Dyspnoe. Trotz des zunehmenden pathophysiologischen Verständnisses der Herzinsuffizienz hat sich die Therapie der akut dekompensierten Herzinsuffizienz nicht wesentlich gewandelt. Diuretika, vorzugsweise Schleifendiuretika, sind hierbei die am gängigsten eingesetzten Medikamente. Intravenöse Diuretika wirken sowohl durch eine früh einsetzende Vasodilatation sowie durch eine im weiteren Verlauf eintretende Diurese. Trotz des weiten Einsatzes der Diuretika, erfahren, als Folge einer nicht ausreichenden Dosis, einer reaktiv erhöhten Volumengabe bei Diuretikaüberdosierung sowie einer Diuretikaresistenz, lediglich die Hälfte der Patienten einen signifikanten intrahospitalen Gewichtsverlust. Hingegen ist eine aggressive diuretische Therapie mit rhythmogenen sowie nephrogenen Komplikationen vergesellschaftet. Derzeit sind keine randomisierten Studien hinsichtlich der Therapiestrategie mit Diuretika vorhanden, sodass die Wahl und Dosierung der Diuretika individualisiert an die Klinik und die pharmakokinetischen Eigenschaften angepasst werden muss.
Aneurysmatische Subarachnoidalblutung
Authors: Gautschi  , Stienen  , Cadosch  , Fournier  , Hildebrandt  , Seule
Published: June 2010

Das Leitsymptom der aneurysmatischen Subarachnoidalblutung (aSAB) ist der so genannte «Vernichtungskopfschmerz», welcher von Nackensteifigkeit, Bewusstseinsstörungen sowie vegetativen Symptomen begleitet sein kann. Bei klinischer Verdachtsdiagnose wird initial eine native Computertomographie (CT) durchgeführt. Die Lokalisation und Morphologie des Aneurysmas wird mit Hilfe einer CT-Angiographie und/oder konventionellen Panangiographie dargestellt. Bis zur definitiven Aneurysmaausschaltung mittels mikrochirurgischen Clippings oder endovaskulären Coilings sollte eine Nachblutung unbedingt verhindert werden. Die post-operative Phase ist insbesondere bei Patienten mit höhergradiger aSAB mit dem Auftreten krankheitsspezifischer Komplikationen (zerebrale Vasospasmen, intrakranielle Hypertension, Krampfanfälle, Hydrozephalus) und konsekutiv erhöhtem Risiko für sekundäre Hirnschäden geprägt. Zusätzlich präsentieren viele Patienten systemische Komplikationen wie z.B. Elektrolytstörungen und kardiale Dysfunktionen. Durch rechtzeitiges Erkennen der zerebralen und systemischen Komplikationen können entsprechende Gegenmassnahmen getroffen werden, um den klinisch-funktionellen Outcome zu verbessern.
Stratigraphy of hydrated sulfates in the sedimentary deposits of Aram Chaos, Mars
Authors: Lichtenberg Kimberly A. , Arvidson Raymond E. , Morris Richard V. , Murchie Scott L. , Bishop Janice L. , Fernandez Remolar David , Glotch Timothy D. , Noe Dobrea Eldar , Mustard John F. , Andrews‐Hanna Jeffrey , Roach Leah H.
Published: June 2010

Sedimentary deposits within the 280 km wide crater containing Aram Chaos (∼3°N, 339°E) have been differentially eroded by wind to expose a stratigraphic column 900–1000 m thick that unconformably overlies the chaos bedrock. A detailed stratigraphic and mineralogical description of the deposits is presented based on data from the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Compact Reconnaissance Imaging Spectrometer for Mars, Context Imager, and High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment. Two sedimentary units overlie the basement chaos material representing the original plains fill in Aram Crater: the first and oldest is composed of (1) a 50–75 m thick dark‐toned basal unit containing ferric hydroxysulfate intercalated with monohydrated‐sulfate‐bearing materials, (2) a 75–100 m thick light‐toned unit with monohydrated sulfates, and (3) a 175–350 m thick light‐toned resistant capping unit with nanophase ferric oxides and monohydrated sulfates. After a period of wind erosion, these deposits were partially and unconformably covered by the second sedimentary unit, a 75–100 m thick, discontinuous dark‐toned unit containing crystalline hematite and polyhydrated sulfate material. These sedimentary deposits were formed by evaporite deposition during at least two distinct rising groundwater episodes fed by regional‐scale recharge. Later groundwater event(s) formed the polyhydrated materials, indicating that environmental conditions changed to a higher water‐to‐rock ratio. Wind has continued to shape the landscape after the last wetting event to produce the features and exposures observed.
Evaluation of the Global Land Data Assimilation System using global river discharge data and a source‐to‐sink routing scheme
Authors: Zaitchik Benjamin F. , Rodell Matthew , Olivera Francisco
Published: June 2010

Advanced land surface models (LSMs) offer detailed estimates of distributed hydrological fluxes and storages. These estimates are extremely valuable for studies of climate and water resources, but they are difficult to verify as field measurements of soil moisture, evapotranspiration, and surface and subsurface runoff are sparse in most regions. In contrast, river discharge is a hydrologic flux that is recorded regularly and with good accuracy for many of the world's major rivers. These measurements of discharge spatially integrate all upstream hydrological processes. As such, they can be used to evaluate distributed LSMs, but only if the simulated runoff is properly routed through the river basins. In this study, a rapid, computationally efficient source‐to‐sink (STS) routing scheme is presented that generates estimates of river discharge at gauge locations based on gridded runoff output. We applied the scheme as a postprocessor to archived output of the Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS). GLDAS integrates satellite and ground‐based data within multiple offline LSMs to produce fields of land surface states and fluxes. The application of the STS routing scheme allows for evaluation of GLDAS products in regions that lack distributed in situ hydrological measurements. We found that the four LSMs included in GLDAS yield very different estimates of river discharge and that there are distinct geographic patterns in the accuracy of each model as evaluated against gauged discharge. The choice of atmospheric forcing data set also had a significant influence on the accuracy of simulated discharge.
Coastal Impact Underestimated From Rapid Sea Level Rise
Authors: Anderson John , Milliken Kristy , Wallace Davin , Rodriguez Antonio , Simms Alexander
Published: June 2010

A primary effect of global warming is accelerated sea level rise, which will eventually drown low‐lying coastal areas, including some of the world's most populated cities. Predictions from the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) suggest that sea level may rise by as much as 0.6 meter by 2100 [Solomon et al., 2007]. However, uncertainty remains about how projected melting of the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets will contribute to sea level rise. Further, considerable variability is introduced to these calculations due to coastal subsidence, especially along the northern Gulf of Mexico (see http://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/sltrends/sltrends.shtml).
In vivo and in vitro Validation of Reference Tissue Models for the mGluR5 Ligand [11C]ABP688
Authors: Elmenhorst David , Minuzzi Luciano , Aliaga Antonio , Rowley Jared , Massarweh Gassan , Diksic Mirko , Bauer Andreas , Rosa-Neto Pedro
Published: June 2010

The primary objective of this study was to verify the suitability of reference tissue-based quantification methods of the metabotropic glutamate receptor type 5 (mGluR5) with [11C]ABP688. This study presents in vivo (Positron Emission Tomography (PET)) and in vitro (autoradiography) measurements of mGluR5 densities in the same rats and evaluates both noninvasive and blood-dependent pharmacokinetic models for the quantification of [11C]ABP688 binding. Eleven rats underwent [11C]ABP688 PET scans. In five animals, baseline scans were compared with blockade experiments with the antagonist 1,2-methyl-6-(phenylethynyl)-pyridine (MPEP), and arterial blood samples were drawn and corrected for metabolites. Afterward, saturation-binding autoradiography was performed. Blocking with MPEP resulted in an average decrease of the total distribution volume ( VT) between 43% and 58% (thalamus and caudate-putamen, respectively) but had no significant effect on cerebellar VT (mean reduction: −0.01%). Comparing binding potential ( BPND) based on the VT with noninvasively determined BPND revealed an average negative bias of 0.7% in the caudate-putamen and an average positive bias of 3.1% in the low-binding regions. Scan duration of 50 minutes is required. The cerebellum is a suitable reference region for the quantification of mGluR5 availability as measured with [11C]ABP688 PET in rats. Blood-based and reference region-based PET quantification shows a significant linear relationship to autoradiographic determinations.
Mitochondrial metabolite transport
Authors: Palmieri Ferdinando , Pierri Ciro Leonardo
Published: June 2010

The flux of a variety of metabolites, nucleotides and coenzymes across the inner membrane of mitochondria is catalysed by a nuclear-coded superfamily of secondary transport proteins called MCs (mitochondrial carriers). The importance of MCs is demonstrated by their wide distribution in all eukaryotes, their role in numerous metabolic pathways and cell functions, and the identification of several diseases caused by alterations of their genes. MCs can easily be recognized in databases thanks to their striking sequence features. Until now, 22 MC subfamilies, which are well conserved throughout evolution, have been functionally characterized, mainly by transport assays upon heterologous gene expression, purification and reconstitution into liposomes. Given the significant sequence conservation, it is thought that all MCs use the same basic transport mechanism, although they exhibit different modes of transport and driving forces and their substrates vary in nature and size. Based on substrate specificity, sequence conservation and carrier homology models, progress has recently been made in understanding the transport mechanism of MCs by new insights concerning the existence of a substrate-binding site in the carrier cavity, of cytosolic and matrix gates and conserved proline and glycine residues in each of the six transmembrane α-helices. These structural properties are believed to play an important role in the conformational changes required for substrate translocation.
Novel mechanism of the negative thermal expansion of doped fullerite C60
Authors: Strzhemechny M. A. , Legchenkova I. V.
Published: June 2010

A model of an atomic impurity in an octahedral void of fullerite C60 is suggested. The problem is solved in the spherical oscillator approximation, which is appropriate for the larger rare gas atoms. It is shown that such impurities can contribute to the negative thermal expansion at low temperatures and produce a Schottky-like maximum at higher temperatures.
Infrared studies of ortho-para conversion at Cl-atom and H-atom impurity centers in cryogenic solid hydrogen
Authors: Raston P. L. , Kettwich S. C. , Anderson D. T.
Published: June 2010

We report infrared spectroscopic studies of H2 ortho-para (o/p) conversion in solid hydrogen doped with Cl-atoms at 2K while the Cl+H2 (v=1)→HCl+H infrared-induced chemical reaction is occurring. The Cl-atom doped hydrogen crystals are synthesized using 355nm in situ photodissociation of Cl2 precursor molecules. For hydrogen solids with high ortho-H2 fractional concentrations (Xo=0.55), the o/p conversion kinetics is dominated by Cl-atom catalyzed conversion with a catalyzed conversion rate constant Kcc=1.16(11)min−1 and the process is rate-limited by ortho-H2 quantum diffusion. For hydrogen crystals with low ortho-H2 concentrations (Xo=0.03), single-exponential decay of the ortho-H2 concentration with time is observed which is attributed to H-atom catalyzed o/p conversion by the H-atoms produced during the infrared-induced Cl+H2 reaction. The measured H-atom catalyzed o/p conversion kinetics indicates the H-atoms are mobile under these conditions in agreement with previous ESR measurements.
Local formation of HArF in solid argon: Low-temperature limit and thermal activation
Authors: Lignell H. , Khriachtchev L. , Lignell A. , Räsänen M.
Published: June 2010

The H+Ar+F reaction leading to HArF formation in an argon matrix is studied at temperatures down to 8K. The effects of the precursor concentration, deuteration, IR light, and deposition temperature as well as thermal activation of this reaction are studied. It is found that HArF molecules are formed slowly but efficiently at 8K in a photolyzed HF∕Ar matrix, supporting the previously reported results. The formation rate of HArF (and DArF) exhibits a low-temperature limit and enhances at elevated temperatures with activation energy of about 40meV. All the data show that HArF is formed as a result of a local reaction of hydrogen atoms with the parent Ar–F centers and the tunneling mechanism is very probable here. The locality of the precursor photolysis required for this tunneling reaction is consistent with the partial HArF formation observed during photolysis of HF in an argon matrix. The decay mechanism of (ArHAr)+ cations is also studied. The present results confirm the previous conclusions that the decay of the cations is not essential to HArF formation.
Relative contribution of geometric shape and periodicity to resonant terahertz transmission
Authors: Lee J. W. , Kim D. S.
Published: June 2010

We report the terahertz (THz) transmission characteristics of subwavelength slit arrays with a variety of structures ranging from periodic to random. THz electromagnetic wave transmission experiments clarify the relative contributions of the periodicity and the geometric shape effects to transmission enhancement. In the spectral region slightly below the first Rayleigh minimum, strong transmission enhancement is achieved through the contributions of both effects. In the long-wavelength region, however, enhancement is achieved even in the random arrays of slits because the slit shape has its fundamental resonance. The understanding of the mechanisms of resonant THz transmission is elucidated by using a theoretical approach that is based on a perfect conductor model.
Evolution of structural defects associated with electrical degradation in AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors
Authors: Makaram Prashanth , Joh Jungwoo , del Alamo Jesús A. , Palacios Tomás , Thompson Carl V.
Published: June 2010

We have investigated the surface morphology of electrically stressed AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors using atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy after removing the gate metallization by chemical etching. Changes in surface morphology were correlated with degradation in electrical characteristics. Linear grooves formed along the gate edges in the GaN cap layer for all electrically stressed devices. Beyond a critical voltage that corresponds to a sharp increase in the gate leakage current, pits formed on the surface at the gate edges. The density and size of the pits increase with stress voltage and time and correlate with degradation in the drain current and current collapse. We believe that high mechanical stress in the AlGaN layer due to high-voltage stressing is relieved by the formation of these defects which act as paths for gate leakage current and result in electron trapping and degradation in the transport properties of the channel underneath.
Effects of the fluorine plasma treatment on the surface potential and Schottky barrier height of AlxGa1−xN/GaN heterostructures
Authors: Huang Sen , Chen Hongwei , Chen Kevin J.
Published: June 2010

The variations in surface potential and the Schottky barrier height ϕB in fluorine-plasma-treated AlxGa1−xN/GaN heterostructures are systematically studied by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, providing insights to the mechanisms underlying the strong threshold voltage (Vth) modulation achieved by the F plasma treatment technology. It is found that a large amount of AlF3 appeared on the surface after the treatment, indicating a fluorinated surface. In addition, the surface potential of Al0.25Ga0.75N/GaN heterostructure was increased by ∼0.38 eV during the first 60 s of the treatment and then rises slowly with additional treatment. Annealing at 400 °C in N2 ambient for 10 min does not affect the surface potential, but results in quick reduction in AlF3, consistent with the relative poor thermal stability of AlF3 reported in literature. ϕB between Ni and F-plasma-treated Al0.25Ga0.75N surface was extrapolated from the shift in Ga 2p3/2 core-level and exhibits a small increase of 0.20 eV. The enhanced ϕB is much smaller than the positive shift in Vth observed from high electron mobility transistors fabricated with the same treatment conditions, suggesting that the primary factor responsible for the conversion from depletion-mode to enhancement-mode AlxGa1−xN/GaN by F plasma treatment is not the surface modifications but rather the negative fixed charges carried by F ions in AlxGa1−xN/GaN heterostructures.
Globular state in the oligomers formed by Aβ peptides
Authors: Kim Seongwon , Takeda Takako , Klimov Dmitri K.
Published: June 2010

Replica exchange molecular dynamics and implicit solvent model are used to study two oligomeric species of Aβ peptides, dimer and tetramer, which are typically observed in in vitro experiments. Based on the analysis of free energy landscapes, density distributions, and chain flexibility, we propose that the oligomer formation is a continuous transition occurring without metastable states. The density distribution computations suggest that Aβ oligomer consists of two volume regions—the core with fairly flat density profile and the surface layer with rapidly decreasing density. The core is mostly formed by the N-terminal residues, whereas the C-terminal tends to occur in the surface layer. Lowering the temperature results in the redistribution of peptide atoms from the surface layer into the core. Using these findings, we argue that Aβ oligomer resembles polymer globule in poor solvent. Aβ dimers and tetramers are found to be structurally similar suggesting that the conformations of Aβ peptides do not depend on the order of small oligomers.
Strain-mediated metal-insulator transition in epitaxial ultrathin films of NdNiO3
Authors: Liu Jian , Kareev M. , Gray B. , Kim J. W. , Ryan P. , Dabrowski B. , Freeland J. W. , Chakhalian J.
Published: June 2010

We have synthesized epitaxial NdNiO3 ultrathin films in a layer-by-layer growth mode under tensile and compressive strain on SrTiO3 (001) and LaAlO3 (001), respectively. A combination of x-ray diffraction, temperature dependent resistivity, and soft x-ray absorption spectroscopy has been applied to elucidate electronic and structural properties of the samples. In contrast to the bulk NdNiO3, the metal-insulator transition under compressive strain is found to be completely quenched, while the transition remains under the tensile strain albeit modified from the bulk behavior.
Rate constants for reactions of ClOx of atmospheric interest
Authors: Watson R. T.
Published: June 2010

Chemical kinetics measurements on 82 gas phase reactions of chlorine containing species are reviewed. Recommended rate constants are given. The principal species of interest are Cl, Cl2, ClO, Cl2O, ClOO, OClO, CINO, HCl and halo derivatives of methane and ethane. Absorption spectra are given for 21 species. In addition the chemical kinetics methods used to obtain these data are discussed with regard to their applicability and reliability.
Elastic properties of zinc: A compilation and a review
Authors: Ledbetter H. M.
Published: June 2010

The elastic constants of zinc are compiled and reviewed; one hundred references are cited. The included elastic constants are: Young’s modulus, shear modulus, bulk modulus, compressibility, Poisson’s ratio, second-order single-crystal elastic stiffness and compliances, and third-order, elastic stiffness. Temperature and elastic-anisotropy effects are also reviewed. Other topics are: sound velocities, elastic Debye temperature, Cauchy relationships, elastic stability, pressure effects, and theoretical studies. New polycrystalline data are computed from single-crystal data by tensor-averaging methods.
Behavior of the AB-type compounds at high pressures and high temperatures
Authors: Merrill Leo
Published: June 2010

The results of the published work on the high pressure-high temperature properties of the AB-type compounds have been compiled and evaluated. All pressure studies above the range of 1 kilobar have been included with an emphasis on the accurate characterization of the solid-solid phase boundaries and the experimental melting curves. Whenever x-ray diffraction data are available for the high pressure phases, they have also been reviewed. Phase diagrams are included for all compounds in which measurement of more than one point along the phase boundary was made. This review discusses a total of 87 compounds and 212 distinct high pressure-high temperature phases.
Ideal gas thermodynamic properties of methanoic and ethanoic acids
Authors: Chao Jing , Zwolinski Bruno J.
Published: June 2010

The thermodynamic properties (H0−H00, (G0−H00)/T, (H0−H00)/T, S0, Cp0, ΔHf0, ΔGf0, and log Kf] for methanoic (formic) and ethanoic (acetic) acid monomers and dimers in the ideal gaseous state over the temperature range from 0 to 1500 K and 1 atm have been calculated by the statistical thermodynamic method using the most recent and reliable molecular and spectroscopic constants. The internal rotational contributions of −OH and −CH3 rotors to the thermodynamic properties were evaluated based on internal rotation partition functions formed by summation of calculated internal rotation energy levels. On an assumption that the vapor contains only monomers and dimers, the thermodynamic properties for the monomer-dimer equilibrium mixture of methanoic and ethanoic acids in ideal gaseous state were derived. The results are in agreement with available experimental data.
Semi-empirical extrapolation and estimation of rate constants for abstraction of H from methane by H, O, HO, and O2
Authors: Shaw Robert
Published: June 2010

It has been concluded that for extrapolating rate constants of atom transfer reactions to and from high temperatures, a useful form of the rate constant is k=AT2 exp(−C/T), where A and C are fitted constants. For k/[cm3/(mol s)] and TK, on the basis of previous experimental data, the values of log A and C for the following reactions are: H+CH4=H2+CH3, log A=7.15, C=4449; O+CH4=OH+CH3 log A=6.71, C=3240; HO+CH4 =H2O+CH3, log A=6.93, C=1485 and O2+CH4=O2H+CH3, log A=6.93, C=26153. At all temperatures, abstraction by HO is faster than by O. The form of the rate constant is equivalent to assuming that ΔCp 0‡, the heat capacity at the constant pressure of activation, is zero. When ΔCp O‡, was estimated and assumed to be constant (in principle, a more accurate assumption than ΔCp O‡ =0), the fit to the experimental data was slightly worse. It is confirmed that at 400 to 700 K, the kinetic and thermodynamic equilibrium constants for the reaction H+CH4 =H2+CH3 are significantly different. (At 1340 K, they are in agreement.)
The solubility of some sparingly soluble lead salts: An evaluation of the solubility in water and aqueous electrolyte solution
Authors: Clever H. Lawrence , Johnston Francis J.
Published: June 2010

The literature on the solubility of sparingly soluble lead salts in water and in aqueous electrolyte solution was reviewed. Solubility data were compiled and evaluated. Recommended and tentative values of the solubilities are presented. A partial compilation of solubility products and of complex ion formation constants are given. Where possible the solubility product values have been checked for consistency against thermodynamic data from sources other than solubility measurements.
Static Dielectric Constant of Water and Steam
Authors: Uematsu M. , Franck E. U.
Published: June 2010

This paper reviews and evaluates the experimental works of the static dielectric constant (permittivity) of water and steam over the century. The critically evaluated experimental data are represented by a function of temperature and density. This representation was carefully examined in the light of the criteria for smoothness and physical plausibility. As a result of this work, which was largely stimulated by the activities of the International Association for the Properties of Steam, a new International formulation for the static dielectric constant of water and steam was adopted. This formulation covers a temperature range from 0 to 550 °C and a pressure range up to 500 MPa.
Molten Salts Data as Reference Standards for Density, Surface Tension, Viscosity, and Electrical Conductance: KNO3 and NaCl
Authors: Janz George J.
Published: June 2010

Accuracy estimates for physical property measurements are usually based on somewhat subjective quality judgements and the difficulties encountered in interpreting accuracy statements in the literature are frequently compounded through lack of details on the methods of measurements, chemical purity, and related experimental aspects. In the present communication we report the results of a Standards Program initiated in 1973 with participating laboratories in Czechosloskia, German Democratic Republic-DDR, Japan, Norway, Poland, Rumania, and U.S.A. Potassium nitrate (m.335 °C) and sodium chloride (m 800 °C) were selected as the two reference salts for the properties: density, surface tension, viscosity, and electrical conductance. The results of the measurements have been critically examined, and are reported herewith. It has been possible to resolve some of the difficulties encountered in accuracy estimates through this ’’round-robin’’ series of measurements, and to up-grade some of the data-sets to calibration-quality reference standards.
Dictyostelium
amoebae and neutrophils can swim
Authors: Barry Nicholas P. , Bretscher Mark S.
Published: June 2010

Animal cells migrating over a substratum crawl in amoeboid fashion; how the force against the substratum is achieved remains uncertain. We find that amoebae and neutrophils, cells traditionally used to study cell migration on a solid surface, move toward a chemotactic source while suspended in solution. They can swim and do so with speeds similar to those on a solid substrate. Based on the surprisingly rapidly changing shape of amoebae as they swim and earlier theoretical schemes for how suspended microorganisms can migrate (Purcell EM (1977) Life at low Reynolds number.
Am J Phys
45:3–11), we suggest the general features these cells use to gain traction with the medium. This motion requires either the movement of the cell’s surface from the cell’s front toward its rear or protrusions that move down the length of the elongated cell. Our results indicate that a solid substratum is not a prerequisite for these cells to produce a forward thrust during movement and suggest that crawling and swimming are similar processes, a comparison we think is helpful in understanding how cells migrate.
Strain dependence of the direct energy bandgap in thin silicon on insulator layers
Authors: Munguía J , Bluet J-M , Chouaib H , Bremond G , Mermoux M , Bru-Chevallier C
Published: June 2010

Photoreflectance spectroscopy is applied on tensilely strained silicon on insulator (sSOI) thin layers in order to evaluate the biaxial strain effect on the Si direct bandgap. The measured redshift of the E′0 transition (i.e. direct bandgap) with strain (∼ − 100 meV/%) corresponds to theoretical predictions. The hydrostatic and valence band deformation potential constants for E
1 (i.e. transition close to the L point along the Λ-direction) are also measured:
and
.
An adaptive real-time disruption predictor for ASDEX Upgrade
Authors: Cannas B. , Fanni A. , Pautasso G. , Sias G. , Sonato P.
Published: June 2010

In this paper, a neural predictor has been built using plasma discharges selected from two years of ASDEX Upgrade experiments, from July 2002 to July 2004. In order to test the real-time prediction capability of the system, its performance has been evaluated using discharges coming from different experimental campaigns, from June 2005 to July 2007. All disruptions that occurred in the chosen experimental campaigns were included with the exception of those occurring in the ramp-up phase, in the ramp-down phase (if the disruption does not happen in the first 100 ms), those caused by massive gas injection and disruptions following vertical displacement events. The large majority of selected disruptions are of the cooling edge type and typically preceded by the growth of tearing modes, degradation of the thermal confinement and enhanced plasma radiation. A very small percentage of them happen at large beta after a short precursor phase. For each discharge, seven plasma diagnostic signals have been selected from numerous signals available in real-time. During the training procedure, a self-organizing map has been used to reduce the database size in order to improve the training of the neural network. Moreover, an optimization procedure has been performed to discriminate between safe and pre-disruptive phases. The prediction success rate has been further improved, performing an adaptive training of the network whenever a missed alarm is triggered by the predictor.
A molecular approach to identifying the prey of cephalopod paralarvae
Authors: Roura Álvaro , González Ángel F. , Pascual Santiago , Guerra Ángel
Published: June 2010

Roura, Á., González, Á. F., Pascual, S., and Guerra, Á. 2010. A molecular approach to identifying the prey of cephalopod paralarvae. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 67: 1408–1412. A molecular method was developed to detect Artemia franciscana within Octopus vulgaris paralarvae, as a first step towards understanding the diet of octopus during this life stage. Wild eggs were collected from a spawning female in the Ría de Vigo (northwestern Spain) in late summer, and brought to the laboratory. After hatching, paralarvae were reared in 30 l rectangular tanks with an open seawater filtered system. Paralarvae were fed Artemia, then immediately fixed in 80% ethanol and preserved at −20°C. Primers specific to A. franciscana were designed for the gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I. A nested polymerase chain reaction was necessary to detect A. franciscana within octopus paralarvae. This molecular method provides a new framework for resolving the diet of cephalopod paralarvae in the wild, essential for ecological understanding and increasing survival rates in aquaculture.
Effect of Outer Bran Layers from Germinated Wheat Grains on Breadmaking Properties
Authors: Seguchi M. , Uozu M. , Oneda H. , Murayama R. , Okusu H.
Published: June 2010

Wheat grains were germinated in the dark at room temperature (24°C) for 1, 2, 3, 5, and 8 days. Germinated wheat grains were pearled in a Waring blender, and the outer bran layers were separated from the pearled grains. Breadmaking was performed with wheat flour and 10% of the outer bran layer. Breadmaking properties (bread height [mm] and specific volume [cm3/g]) were gradually enhanced by blending the germinated outer bran layers, and maximum specific volume was obtained after 5 days of germination. However, the improvement was lost after 8 days of germination. Rapid ViscoAnalyser (RVA) and Brabender Farinograph profiles of wheat flour and outer bran layers (10%) indicated that the maximum decrease of peak viscosity and increase of angle of tail were obtained after 3 and 5 days of germination, respectively. Those changes are presumed to be due to the action of enzymes found in the outer bran layers. Activities of α‐ and β‐amylase, lipase, protease, and xylanase in the outer bran layers were measured, and correlation coefficients (r) between breadmaking properties and peak viscosity (RVA), angle of tail (farinograph), and enzyme activities were calculated. These data suggest that xylanase and α‐amylase activities in the outer bran layers were highly related to the enhancement of the breadmaking properties.
The introduction, origin and life‐history attributes of the non‐native cichlid Etroplus suratensis in the coastal waters of Singapore
Authors: Ng T. H. , Tan H. H.
Published: June 2010

Etroplus suratensis, a southern Asian cichlid, has established populations in Singapore. The fish, which was first collected in 1995, was probably introduced via the aquarium trade or through the Johor River in Malaysia. The growth, feeding and reproductive characteristics were found to follow its ecology in its native range in southern Asia, and its establishment in Singapore could be due to the similarity in environment and availability of food. Changes in intestinal length indicated diet shifts from a predominantly herbivorous to an omnivorous one as it matured. Stomach contents did not provide comparable evidence. Diet similarity to two other introduced cichlids may imply that interspecies resource competition exists. Closer monitoring is needed to determine its effects on the local environment.
Quantifying recreational shore angling catch and harvest in southern Portugal (north‐east Atlantic Ocean): implications for conservation and integrated fisheries management
Authors: Veiga P. , Ribeiro J. , Gonçalves J. M. S. , Erzini K.
Published: June 2010

Recreational shore fishing along 250 km of the south and south‐west coast of Portugal was studied based on roving creel and aerial surveys. Surveys were conducted between August 2006 and July 2007, following a stratified random‐sampling design and provided information on catch and effort, harvest and discards, angler demographics and fishing habits. Overall, 192 roving creel surveys, 24 aerial surveys and 1321 interviews were conducted. Based on the aerial surveys, a mean ±s.e. total fishing effort of 705 236 ± 32 765 angler h year−1 was estimated, corresponding to 166 430 ± 9792 fishing trips year−1. Average time spent per fishing trip was 4·7 h. A total of 48 species, belonging to 22 families, were recorded in roving creel surveys. The most important species was Diplodus sargus, accounting for 44% of the total catches by number and 48% by mass. Estimated mean ±s.e. total annual recreational shore fishing catch was 160·2 ± 12·6 t year−1 (788 049 ± 54 079 fishes year−1), of which 147·4 ± 11·9 t year−1 (589 132 ± 42 360 fishes year−1) was retained. Although overall shore‐based recreational catches only corresponded to 0·8% of the commercial landings (only common species considered), D. sargus catches by recreational shore anglers were considerable, corresponding to 65% of the commercial landings. The implications of these results for integrated fisheries management and conservation are discussed, and future research proposed.
MRP14 is elevated in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of fibrosing interstitial lung diseases
Authors: Korthagen N M , Nagtegaal M M , Van Moorsel C H M , Kazemier K M , Van Den Bosch J M M , Grutters J C
Published: June 2010

Pulmonary fibrosis is defined by an overgrowth of fibroblasts and extracellular matrix deposition, and results in respiratory dysfunction that is often fatal. It is the end stage in many chronic inflammatory interstitial lung diseases (ILD) such as sarcoidosis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The myeloid-related proteins (MRPs) belong to the S100 family of calcium-binding proteins and are highly expressed by neutrophils, macrophages and epithelial cells during chronic inflammation. MRP14 stimulates fibroblast proliferation in vitro and is expressed in granulomas from sarcoidosis patients. We hypothesized that MRP14 may be a biomarker for fibrotic interstitial lung diseases. The objective of this study was to investigate whether levels of MRP14 in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of patients with sarcoidosis and IPF correlate with clinical parameters. We used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to measure MRP14 in BALF of 74 sarcoidosis patients, 54 IPF patients and 19 controls. Mean BALF levels of MRP14 were elevated significantly in IPF (P < 0·001) and sarcoidosis (P < 0·05) patients compared to controls. MRP14 levels were associated linearly with sarcoidosis disease severity based on chest radiographic stage. Moreover, BALF MRP14 levels were correlated inversely with diffusion capacity and forced vital capacity in sarcoidosis patients. In IPF patients, a correlation with BALF neutrophil percentage was found. In conclusion, BALF MRP14 levels are elevated in IPF and sarcoidosis and are associated with disease severity in sarcoidosis. The results support the need for further studies into the role of MRP14 in the pathogenesis of lung fibrosis.
Prenatal dexamethasone use for the prevention of virilization in pregnancies at risk for classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia because of 21‐hydroxylase (CYP21A2) deficiency: a systematic review and meta‐analyses
Authors: Mercè Fernández‐Balsells M. , Muthusamy Kalpana , Smushkin Galina , Lampropulos Julianna F. , Elamin Mohamed B. , Abu Elnour Nisrin O. , Elamin Khalid B. , Agrwal Neera , Gallegos‐Orozco Juan F. , Lane Melanie A. , Erwin Patricia J. , Montori Victor M. , Murad M. Hassan
Published: June 2010

Context  Prenatal treatment with dexamethasone to prevent virilization in pregnancies at risk for classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) remains controversial.

Objective  To conduct a systematic review and meta‐analyses of studies that evaluated the effects of dexamethasone administration during pregnancies at risk for classical CAH because of 21‐hydroxylase deficiency (CYP21A2).

Data Sources  We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL from inception through August 2009. Review of reference lists and contact with CAH experts further identified candidate studies.

Study Selection  Reviewers working independently and in duplicate determined trial eligibility. Eligible studies reported the effects on either foetal or maternal outcomes of dexamethasone administered during pregnancy compared to a control group that did not receive any treatment.

Data Extraction  Reviewers working independently and in duplicate determined the methodological quality of studies and collected data on patient characteristics, interventions, and outcomes.

Data Synthesis  We identified only four eligible observational studies (325 pregnancies treated with dexamethasone). The methodological quality of the included studies was overall low. Meta‐analysis demonstrates a reduction in foetus virilization measured by Prader score in female foetuses treated with dexamethasone initiated early during pregnancy (weighted mean difference, −2·33, 95% CI, −3·38, −1·27). No deleterious effects of dexamethasone on stillbirths, spontaneous abortions, foetal malformations, neuropsychological or developmental outcomes were found although these data are quite sparse. There was increased oedema and striae in the mothers treated with dexamethasone. There were no data on long‐term follow‐up of physical and metabolic outcomes in children exposed to dexamethasone.

Conclusions  The observational nature of the available evidence and the overall small sample size of the whole body of the literature significantly weaken inferences about the benefits and harms of dexamethasone in this setting. Dexamethasone seems to be associated with reduction in foetus virilization without significant maternal or foetal adverse effects. However, this review underscores the current uncertainty and further investigation is clearly needed. The decision about initiating treatment should be based on patients’ values and preferences and requires fully informed and consenting parents.