bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Connectivity‐Based Parcellation of the Cortical Mantle Using q‐Ball Diffusion Imaging
Authors: Perrin Muriel , Cointepas Yann , Cachia Arnaud , Poupon Cyril , Thirion Bertrand , Rivière Denis , Cathier Pascal , El Kouby Vincent , Constantinesco André , Le Bihan Denis , Mangin Jean-François
Published: March 2008

This paper exploits the idea that each individual brain region has a specific connection profile to create parcellations of the cortical mantle using MR diffusion imaging. The parcellation is performed in two steps. First, the cortical mantle is split at a macroscopic level into 36 large gyri using a sulcus recognition system. Then, for each voxel of the cortex, a connection profile is computed using a probabilistic tractography framework. The tractography
is performed from q‐ball fields using regularized particle trajectories. Fiber ODF are inferred from the q‐balls using
a sharpening process focusing the weight around the q‐ball local maxima. A sophisticated mask of propagation
computed from a T1‐weighted image perfectly aligned with the diffusion data prevents the particles from crossing
the cortical folds. During propagation, the particles father child particles in order to improve the sampling of the
long fascicles. For each voxel, intersection of the particle trajectories with the gyri lead to a connectivity profile
made up of only 36 connection strengths. These profiles are clustered on a gyrus by gyrus basis using a K‐means
approach including spatial regularization. The reproducibility of the results is studied for three subjects using spatial
normalization.
Nonlinear Speed Control of Switched Reluctance Motor Drives Taking into Account Mutual Inductance
Authors: Alrifai M. , Zribi M. , Krishnan R. , Rayan M.
Published: March 2008

A speed control algorithm is proposed for variable speed switched reluctance motor (SRM) drives taking into account the effects of mutual inductances. The control scheme adopts two-phase excitation; exciting two adjacent phases can overcome the problems associated with single-phase excitation such as large torque ripple, increased acoustic noise, and rotor shaft fatigues. The effects of mutual coupling between two adjacent phases and their contribution to the generated electromagnetic torque are considered in the design of the proposed control scheme for the motor. The proposed controller guarantees the convergence of the currents and the rotor speed of the motor to their desired values. Simulation results are given to illustrate the developed theory; the simulation studies show that the proposed controller works well. Moreover, the simulation results indicate that the proposed controller is robust to changes in the parameters of the motor and to changes in the load torque.
Peroxisome Proliferator‐Activated Receptors: “Key” Regulators of Neuroinflammation after Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Stahel Philip F. , Smith Wade R. , Bruchis Jay , Rabb Craig H.
Published: March 2008

Traumatic brain injury is characterized by neuroinflammatory pathological sequelae which contribute to brain edema and delayed neuronal cell death. Until present, no specific pharmacological compound has been found, which attenuates these pathophysiological events and improves the outcome after head injury. Recent experimental studies suggest that targeting peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs) may represent a new anti‐inflammatory therapeutic concept for traumatic brain injury. PPARs are “key” transcription factors which inhibit NFκB activity and downstream transcription products, such as proinflammatory and proapoptotic cytokines. The present review outlines our current understanding of PPAR‐mediated neuroprotective mechanisms in the injured brain and discusses potential future anti‐inflammatory strategies for head‐injured patients, with an emphasis on the putative beneficial combination therapy of synthetic cannabinoids (e.g., dexanabinol) with PPARα agonists (e.g., fenofibrate).
Fibronectin Adsorption to Nanopatterned Silicon Surfaces
Authors: Salakhutdinov I. , VandeVord P. , Palyvoda O. , Matthew H. , Tatagiri G. , Handa H. , Mao G. , Auner G. W. , Newaz G.
Published: March 2008

The possibility of using surface topography for guidance of different
biological molecules and cells is a relevant topic that can be applied to a wide
research activity. This study investigated the adsorption of fibronectin to a
diffraction grated silicon surface. The rectangular grating profile featured a
controlled surface with 350 nm period and a corrugation depth of
90 nm. Results demonstrated that the controlled surface had a
significantly positive effect on the fibronectin binding. Thus, nanoscale
surface topography can enhance fibronectin binding.
Protein Alterations in Infiltrating Ductal Carcinomas of the Breast as Detected by Nonequilibrium pH Gradient Electrophoresis and Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Kabbage Maria , Chahed Karim , Hamrita Bechr , Guillier Christelle Lemaitre , Trimeche Mounir , Remadi Sami , Hoebeke Johan , Chouchane Lotfi
Published: March 2008

Improvement of breast‐cancer detection through the identification of potential cancer biomarkers is
considered as a promising strategy for effective assessment of the disease. The current study has used nonequilibrium pH gradient electrophoresis with subsequent analysis by mass spectrometry to identify protein alterations in invasive ductal carcinomas of the breast from Tunisian women. We have identified multiple protein alterations in tumor tissues that were picked, processed, and unambiguously assigned identities by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF). The proteins identified span a wide range of functions and are believed to have potential clinical applications as cancer biomarkers. They include glycolytic enzymes, molecular chaperones, cytoskeletal‐related proteins, antioxydant enzymes, and immunologic related proteins. Among these proteins, enolase 1, phosphoglycerate kinase 1, deoxyhemoglobin, Mn‐superoxyde dismutase,
α‐B‐crystallin, HSP27, Raf kinase inhibitor protein, heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2/B1, cofilin 1, and peptidylprolyl isomerase A were overexpressed in tumors compared with normal tissues. In contrast, the IGHG1 protein, the complement C3 component C3c, which are two newly identified protein markers, were downregulated in IDCA tissues.
A Note on Locally Inverse Semigroup Algebras
Authors: Guo Xiaojiang
Published: March 2008

Let R be a commutative ring and S a finite locally inverse semigroup.
It is proved that the semigroup algebra R[S] is isomorphic to the direct
product of Munn algebras ℳ(R[GJ], mJ, nJ; PJ) with
J ∈ S/𝒥, where
mJ is the number of ℛ‐classes in J, nJ the number of ℒ‐classes in J, and
GJ a maximum subgroup of J. As applications, we obtain the sufficient
and necessary conditions for the semigroup algebra of a finite locally
inverse semigroup to be semisimple.
Physiologic Responses to Infrarenal Aortic Cross-Clamping during Laparoscopic or Conventional Vascular Surgery in Experimental Animal Model: Comparative Study
Authors: Martín-Cancho María F. , Crisóstomo Verónica , Soria Federico , Calles Carmen , Sánchez-Margallo Francisco M. , Díaz-Güemes Idoia , Usón-Gargallo Jesús
Published: March 2008

The aim of this study was to compare the hemodynamic and ventilatory effects of prolonged infrarenal aortic cross-clamping in pigs undergoing either laparotomy or laparoscopy. 18 pigs were used for this study. Infrarenal aortic crossclamping was performed for 60 minutes in groups I (laparotomy,n=6) and II (laparoscopy,n=6). Group III (laparoscopy,n=6) underwent a 120-minute long pneumoperitoneum in absence of aortic clamping (sham group). Ventilatory and hemodynamic parameters and renal function were serially determined in all groups. A significant decrease in pH and significant increase inPaCO2were observed in group II, whereas no changes in these parameters were seen in group I and III. All variables returned to values similar to baseline in groups I and II 60 minutes after declamping. A significant increase in renal resistive index was evidenced during laparoscopy, with significantly higher values seen in Group II. Thus a synergic effect of pneumoperitoneum and aortic cross-clamping was seen in this study. These two factors together cause decreased renal perfusion and acidosis, thus negatively affecting the patient's general state during this type of surgery.
An FFT Core for DVB‐T/DVB‐H Receivers
Authors: Cortés A. , Vélez I. , Zalbide I. , Irizar A. , Sevillano J. F.
Published: March 2008

This paper presents the design and implementation of a 2K/4K/8K multiple mode FFT core for DVB‐T/DVB‐H receivers. The proposed core is based on a pipeline radix‐22 SDF architecture. The necessary changes in the radix‐22 SDF architecture to achieve an efficient FFT implementation are detailed. Quantization effects and timing design parameters are analyzed for DVB‐T/DVB‐H. Area and power results are provided for the proposed core.
A Tool for Single‐Fault Diagnosis in Linear Analog Circuits with Tolerance Using the T‐Vector Approach
Authors: Soares Augusto José A. , Beltrán Almeida Carlos
Published: March 2008

In previous works of these authors, a technique
for doing single‐fault diagnosis in linear analog circuits was
developed. Under certain conditions, one of them assuming
nominal values for the circuit parameters, it was shown that only
two measurements taken on two selected circuit nodes, at a single
frequency, were needed to detect and diagnose any parametric
fault. In this paper, the practical value of the technique is
improved by extending the application to the diagnosis of
faults in circuits with parameters subject to tolerance. With
this in mind, single parametric faults with several strengths are
randomly injected in the circuit under study and, afterwards,
these faults are diagnosed (or the diagnosis fails). Results are
reported on a simple active filter. Conclusions are drawn about
the robustness and effectiveness of the technique.
Fast Drug Release Using Rotational Motion of Magnetic Gel Beads
Authors: Mitsumata Tetsu , Kakiuchi Yusuke , Takimoto Jun-Ichi
Published: March 2008

Accelerated drug release has been achieved by means of the fast rotation of magnetic gel beads. The magnetic gel bead consists of sodium alginate crosslinked by calcium chlorides, which contains barium ferrite of ferrimagnetic particles, and ketoprofen as a drug. The bead underwent rotational motion in response to rotational magnetic fields. In the case of bead without rotation, the amount of drug release into a phosphate buffer solution obeyed non-Fickian diffusion. The spontaneous drug release reached a saturation value of 0.90 mg at 25 minutes, which corresponds to 92% of the perfect release. The drug release was accelerated with increasing the rotation speed. The shortest time achieving the perfect release was approximately 3 minutes, which corresponds to 1/8 of the case without rotation. Simultaneous with the fast release, the bead collapsed probably due to the strong water flow surrounding the bead. The beads with high elasticity were hard to collapse and the fast release was not observed. Hence, the fast release of ketoprofen is triggered by the collapse of beads. Photographs of the collapse of beads, time profiles of the drug release, and a pulsatile release modulated by magnetic fields were presented.
Particle Swarm Optimization for Antenna Designs in Engineering Electromagnetics
Authors: Jin Nanbo , Rahmat-Samii Yahya
Published: April 2008

This paper presents recent advances in applying particle swarm optimization (PSO) to antenna designs in engineering electromagnetics. By linking the PSO kernel with external electromagnetic (EM) analyzers, the algorithm has the flexibility to handle both real and binary variables, as well as multiobjective problems with more than one optimization goal. Three examples, including the designs of a dual‐band patch antenna, an artificial ground plane of a surface wave antenna, and an aperiodic antenna array, are presented. Both simulation and measurement results are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of applying the swarm intelligence to design antennas with desired frequency response and radiation characteristics for practical EM applications.
An Inverse Quadratic Eigenvalue Problem for Damped Structural Systems
Authors: Yuan Yongxin
Published: April 2008

We first give the representation of the general solution of the following inverse quadratic
eigenvalue problem (IQEP): given Λ = diag{λ1, …, λp} ∈ Cp×p
, X = [x1, …, xp] ∈ Cn×p, and both Λ and X are closed under complex conjugation in the sense that , for j = 1, …, l, and λk ∈ R, xk ∈ Rn for k = 2l + 1, …, p, find real‐valued symmetric (2r + 1)‐diagonal
matrices M, D and K such that MXΛ2 + DXΛ + KX = 0. We then consider an optimal approximation
problem: given real‐valued symmetric (2r + 1)‐diagonal matrices Ma, Da, Ka ∈ Rn×n, find such that , where SE is the solution set of IQEP. We show that the optimal approximation solution is unique and derive an explicit formula for it.
Strong Convergence Theorems for Nonexpansive Semigroups without Bochner Integrals
Authors: Saejung Satit
Published: March 2008

We prove a convergence theorem by the new iterative method introduced by Takahashi et al. (2007). Our result does not use Bochner integrals so it is different from that by Takahashi et al. We also correct the strong convergence theorem recently proved by He and Chen (2007).
A Delayed Epidemic Model with Pulse Vaccination
Authors: Wei Chunjin , Chen Lansun
Published: March 2008

A delayed SEIRS epidemic model with pulse vaccination
and nonlinear incidence rate is proposed. We analyze the dynamical behaviors of this
model and point out that there exists an infection‐free periodic solution which is globally
attractive if R1 < 1, R2 > 1, and the disease is permanent. Our results indicate
that a short period of pulse or a large pulse vaccination rate is the sufficient condition
for the eradication of the disease. The main feature of this paper is to introduce time
delay and impulse into SEIRS model and give pulse vaccination strategies.
Synthesis of Nanostructured Nanoclay‐Zirconia Multilayers: a Feasibility Study
Authors: Chen Hao , Zhang Guoping , Richardson Kathleen , Luo Jian
Published: April 2008

This paper reports the first effort to synthesize a new class of inorganic nanostructured materials consisting of alternating ultrathin layers of nanoclays and oxide ceramics. A novel solution‐based layer‐by‐layer (LBL) deposition technique was developed to prepare multilayers of hydrated Zr cations and nanoclays. This LBL deposition technique is devised by integrating an electrostatic‐mediated dip coating method for making nanoclay‐polymer multilayers with a successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction method for making ultrathin oxide films. Nanostructured clay‐zirconia multilayer composites formed through subsequent annealing. Characterization by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction confirmed that these films are uniform and crack‐free, consist of no detectable impurities, and possess nanoscale‐layered structure. The incorporation of nanoclays facilitates the electrostatic‐mediated assembling of multilayers, enhances the structural integrity, and provides a generic framework to construct functionally graded materials. Potential applications are envisaged.
A Robotic Voice Simulator and the Interactive Training for Hearing‐Impaired People
Authors: Sawada Hideyuki , Kitani Mitsuki , Hayashi Yasumori
Published: March 2008

A talking and singing robot which adaptively learns the vocalization skill by means of an auditory feedback learning algorithm is being developed. The robot consists of motor‐controlled vocal organs such as vocal cords, a vocal tract and a nasal cavity to generate a natural voice imitating a human vocalization. In this study, the robot is applied to the training system of speech articulation for the hearing‐impaired, because the robot is able to reproduce their vocalization and to teach them how it is to be improved to generate clear speech. The paper briefly introduces the mechanical construction of the robot and how it autonomously acquires the vocalization skill in the auditory feedback learning by listening to human speech. Then the training system is described, together with the evaluation of the speech training by auditory impaired people.
GRS Method for Uncertainty and Sensitivity Evaluation of Code Results and Applications
Authors: Glaeser Horst
Published: March 2008

During the recent years, an increasing interest in computational reactor safety analysis is to replace the conservative evaluation model calculations by best estimate calculations supplemented by uncertainty analysis of the code results. The evaluation of the margin to acceptance criteria, for example, the maximum fuel rod clad temperature, should be based on the upper limit of the calculated uncertainty range. Uncertainty analysis is needed if useful conclusions are to be obtained from “best estimate” thermal-hydraulic code calculations, otherwise single values of unknown accuracy would be presented for comparison with regulatory acceptance limits. Methods have been developed and presented to quantify the uncertainty of computer code results. The basic techniques proposed by GRS are presented together with applications to a large break loss of coolant accident on a reference reactor as well as on an experiment simulating containment behaviour.
Pt/TiO2 Coupled with Water-Splitting Catalyst for Organic Pollutant Photodegradation: Insight into the Primary Reaction Mechanism
Authors: Zhang Zizhong , Wang Xuxu , Long Jinlin , Fu Xianliang , Ding Zhengxin , Li Zhaohui , Wu Ling , Fu Xianzhi
Published: March 2008

A composited system was fabricated by coupling Pt/TiO2 with water-splitting catalyst for photooxidation of organic pollutants in aqueous solutions. The new composited system exhibits more efficient photocatalytic activity than pure Pt/TiO2 does under UV light irradiation. The promoting effect is dependent on the photo-produced H2 over the composited system. The active oxygen species, hydroxyl radical (·OH) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), are measured by fluorescence spectroscopy and photometric method, respectively. The results reveal that the produced H2 by photocatalytic water splitting over NiO/NaTaO3:La transfers to Pt particle of TiO2 surface, then reacts with introducing O2 to generate in situ intermediate H2O2, and finally translates into ·OH radical to accelerate the photooxidation of organic pollutants.
X‐Ray Phase‐Contrast Imaging with Three 2D Gratings
Authors: Jiang Ming , Wyatt Christopher Lee , Wang Ge
Published: March 2008

X‐ray imaging is of paramount importance for clinical and preclinical imaging but it is fundamentally restricted by the attenuation‐based contrast mechanism, which has remained essentially the same since Roentgen′s discovery a century ago. Recently, based on the Talbot effect, groundbreaking work was reported using 1D gratings for X‐ray phase‐contrast imaging with a hospital‐grade X‐ray tube instead of a synchrotron or microfocused source. In this paper, we report an extension using 2D gratings that reduces the imaging time and increases the accuracy and robustness of phase retrieval compared to current grating‐based phase‐contrast techniques. Feasibility is demonstrated via numerical simulation.
Diversity Performance of Multiantenna Systems for UMTS Cellular Phones in Different Propagation Environments
Authors: Diallo A. , Luxey C. , Le Thuc P. , Staraj R. , Kossiavas G.
Published: March 2008

We present the evaluation of the diversity performance of several two‐antenna systems for UMTS terminals. First, a two‐antenna system with poor antenna‐to‐antenna isolation is described. Then, with the help of a neutralization technique, we introduced an optimized structure with high antenna‐to‐antenna isolation. The key parameters for an efficient diversity performance are then discussed,
some of them being actually dependent on the propagation environment (uniform, indoor, outdoor, and outdoor‐to‐indoor chosen here). All these parameters, the total efficiency, the envelope correlation coefficient, the mean effective gain, the diversity
gain, and the effective diversity gain, are computed with the help of the simulated radiation patterns of
both antenna systems. Next, these key parameters are measured in a reverberation chamber to validate the simulations we achieved in the uniform environment. The comparison of the performance of the two prototypes is especially showing the usefulness of using a neutralization technique for enhanced diversity
antenna systems.
Structure‐Based Inhibitors Exhibit Differential Activities against Helicobacter pylori and Escherichia coli Undecaprenyl Pyrophosphate Synthases
Authors: Kuo Chih-Jung , Guo Rey-Ting , Lu I-Lin , Liu Hun-Ge , Wu Su-Ying , Ko Tzu-Ping , Wang Andrew H.-J. , Liang Po-Huang
Published: March 2008

Helicobacter pylori colonizes the human gastric epithelium and causes diseases such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, and stomach cancer. Undecaprenyl pyrophosphate synthase
(UPPS), which catalyzes consecutive condensation reactions of farnesyl pyrophosphate with eight isopentenyl pyrophosphate to form lipid carrier for bacterial peptidoglycan biosynthesis, represents a potential target for developing new antibiotics. In this study, we solved the crystal structure of H. pylori UPPS and performed virtual screening of inhibitors from a library of 58,635 compounds. Two hits were found to exhibit differential activities against
Helicobacter pylori and Escherichia coli UPPS, giving the possibility of developing antibiotics specially targeting pathogenic H. pylori without killing the intestinal E. coli.
Charge Transport Phenomena in Peptide Molecular Junctions
Authors: Luchini Alessandra , Long David P. , Vaisman Iosif I. , Petricoin Emanuel F. , Geho David H. , Liotta Lance A.
Published: March 2008

Inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy (IETS) is a valuable in situ spectroscopic analysis technique that provides a direct portrait of the electron transport properties of a molecular species. In the past, IETS has been applied to small molecules. Using self‐assembled nanoelectronic junctions, IETS was performed for the first time on a large polypeptide protein peptide in the phosphorylated and native form, yielding interpretable spectra. A reproducible 10‐fold shift of the I/V characteristics of the peptide was observed upon phosphorylation. Phosphorylation can be utilized as a site‐specific modification to alter peptide structure and thereby influence electron transport in peptide molecular junctions. It is envisioned that kinases and phosphatases may be used to create tunable systems for molecular electronics applications, such as biosensors and memory devices.
Directive Antenna for Ultrawideband Medical Imaging Systems
Authors: Abbosh Amin M.
Published: March 2008

A compact and directive ultrawideband antenna is presented in this paper. The antenna is in the form of an antipodal tapered slot with resistive layers to improve its directivity and to reduce its backward radiation. The antenna operates over the frequency band from 3.1 GHz to more than 10.6 GHz. It features a directive radiation with a peak gain which is between 4 dBi and 11 dBi in the specified band. The time domain performance of the antenna shows negligible distortion. This makes it suitable for the imaging systems which require a very short pulse for transmission/reception. The effect of the multilayer human body on the performance of the antenna is also studied. The breast model is used for this purpose. It is shown that the antenna has more than 90% fidelity factor when it works in free space, whereas the fidelity factor decreases as the signal propagates inside the human body. However, even inside the human body, the fidelity factor is still larger than 70% revealing the possibility of using the proposed antenna in biomedical imaging systems.
The In Vitro Antitumour Activity of Novel, Mitochondrial-Interactive, Gold-Based Lipophilic Cations
Authors: Mahepal Sherika , Bowen Richard , Mamo Messai Adenew , Layh Marcus , Jansen van Rensburg Constance Elizabeth
Published: March 2008

In this study we compared the effects of two previously described
antimitochondrial gold complexes, that is, [A] [Au(dppe)2]Cl
and [B] [Au(d4pype)2]Cl with two novel lipophilic cations,
that is, [C] [Au(dpmaaH2)(dpmaaSnMe2)]Cl and [D]
[Au(dpmaaSnMe2)2]Cl as antimitochondrial agents. The
results of this study indicate that [C] and [D] have intermediate
partition coefficients and exhibited a selective uptake by cells.
They exhibited a higher selectivity for the various cell lines than
[A] but were more cytotoxic than [B]. There is a significant
correlation between the cytotoxic potential of [A], [B], [C], and
[D] and their octanol/water partition coefficients in both MCF-7
(breast cancer) and MCF-12A (nonmalignant breast) cells, whereas
their cytotoxic potential and ability to induce the release of
cytochrome c correlated only in the case of the MCF-12A cells.
Complexes [C] and [D] are promising new chemotherapeutic drugs.
These compounds target the mitochondrial membranes of certain
cancer cells exploiting the differences between the mitochondrial
membrane potential of these cells and normal cells. Although the
concentrations of these compounds necessary to eradicate cancer
cells are very high, the results provide a basis for the synthesis
of a new family of compounds with intermediate partition
coefficients compared to [A] and [B] but with increased activity
against cancer cells.
Steady Flow of a Second‐Grade Fluid in an Annulus with Porous Walls
Authors: Erdoğan M. Emin , İmrak C. Erdem
Published: March 2008

An exact solution of an incompressible second‐grade fluid for flow between two coaxial cylinders with porous walls is given. It is assumed that the inner cylinder is rotating with a constant angular velocity and the outer one is at rest. The solution is expressed in terms of the confluent hypergeometric functions and it is valid for all values of the cross‐Reynolds number and the elastic number. The solutions for −2, +∞, and −∞ values of the cross‐Reynolds number are obtained and a comparison with those of the Newtonian fluid is given. Furthermore, the torque exerted by the fluid on the inner cylinder is calculated. It is shown that the moment coefficient depends on the cross‐Reynolds number, the elastic number, and the ratio of the radii of the cylinders. The variation of the moment coefficient with these numbers is discussed.
Bayesian Mixture Model Analysis for Detecting Differentially Expressed Genes
Authors: Jia Zhenyu , Xu Shizhong
Published: March 2008

Control-treatment design is widely used in microarray gene expression experiments. The purpose of such a design is to detect genes that express differentially between the control and the treatment. Many statistical procedures have been developed to detect differentially expressed genes, but all have pros and cons and room is still open for improvement. In this study, we propose a Bayesian mixture model approach to classifying genes into one of three clusters, corresponding to clusters of downregulated, neutral, and upregulated genes, respectively. The Bayesian method is implemented via the Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm. The cluster means of down- and upregulated genes are sampled from truncated normal distributions whereas the cluster mean of the neutral genes is set to zero. Using simulated data as well as data from a real microarray experiment, we demonstrate that the new method outperforms all methods commonly used in differential expression analysis.
Low Temperature Synthesis of Li2SiO3: Effect on Its Morphological and Textural Properties
Authors: Mondragón-Gutiérrez Georgina , Cruz Daniel , Pfeiffer Heriberto , Bulbulian Silvia
Published: April 2008

Synthesis, at low temperature, of Li2SiO3 was investigated using different Li : Si molar ratios and urea, which was used as template. This new synthesis was performed in order to look for different textural and morphological properties than those obtained usually by conventional methods in this kind of ceramics. XRD and SEM analyses showed that Li2SiO3 was obtained pure and with ceramic particle morphology of hollow spheres of 2–6 μm. TEM analysis showed that those spheres were composed by needle-like particles crosslinked among them. This morphology provided a high surface area, probed by N2 adsorption. Therefore, this method of synthesis may be used to obtain other similar ceramics and test them in different applications.
Variational Iteration Method for Fifth‐Order Boundary Value Problems Using He′s Polynomials
Authors: Noor Muhammad Aslam , Mohyud-Din Syed Tauseef
Published: March 2008

We apply the variational iteration method using He′s polynomials (VIMHP) for solving the fifth‐order boundary value problems. The proposed method is an elegant combination of variational iteration and the homotopy perturbation methods and is mainly due to Ghorbani (2007). The suggested algorithm is quite efficient and is practically well suited for use in these problems. The proposed iterative scheme finds the solution without any discritization, linearization, or restrictive assumptions. Several examples are given to verify the reliability and efficiency of the method. The fact that the proposed technique solves nonlinear problems without using Adomian′s polynomials can be considered as a clear advantage of this algorithm over the decomposition method.
On Complexity of Optimal Recombination for Binary Representations of Solutions
Authors: Eremeev Anton V.
Published: April 2008

We consider the optimization problem of finding the best possible offspring as a result of a recombination operator in an evolutionary algorithm, given two parent solutions. The optimal recombination is studied in the case where a vector of binary variables is used as a solution encoding. By means of efficient reductions of the optimal recombination problems (ORPs) we show the polynomial solvability of the ORPs for the maximum weight set packing problem, the minimum weight set partition problem, and for linear Boolean programming problems with at most two variables per inequality, and some other problems. We also identify several NP-hard cases of optimal recombination: the Boolean linear programming problems with three variables per inequality, the knapsack, the set covering, the p-median, and some other problems.
Finding Alternatives and Reduced Formulations for Process-Based Models
Authors: Bernhardt Knut
Published: April 2008

This paper addresses the problem of model complexity commonly arising in constructing and using process-based models with intricate interactions. Apart from complex process details the dynamic behavior of such systems is often limited to a discrete number of typical states. Thus, models reproducing the system's processes in all details are often too complex and over-parameterized. In order to reduce simulation times and to get a better impression of the important mechanisms, simplified formulations are desirable.

In this work a data adaptive model reduction scheme that automatically builds simple models from complex ones is proposed. The method can be applied to the transformation and reduction of systems of ordinary differential equations. It consists of a multistep approach using a low dimensional projection of the model data followed by a Genetic Programming/Genetic Algorithm hybrid to evolve new model systems. As the resulting models again consist of differential equations, their process-based interpretation in terms of new state variables becomes possible.

Transformations of two simple models with oscillatory dynamics, simulating a mathematical pendulum and predator-prey interactions respectively, serve as introductory examples of the method's application. The resulting equations of force indicate the predator-prey system's equivalence to a nonlinear oscillator. In contrast to the simple pendulum it contains driving and damping forces that produce a stable limit cycle.
The w∂yiqtol and the Volitive Sequence
Authors: Baden Joel
Published: March 2008

The purpose of this paper is to explore afresh the use of the w∂yiqtol form in Biblical Hebrew. The particular concern of this paper is to delineate the precise meaning of the form in both volitive and indicative contexts. It is argued that this form always carries the connotation of purpose or result, regardless of its context. The paper concludes with an assessment of the impact of these data on the understanding of the volitive sequence in Biblical Hebrew.
Did the Masoretes Get it Wrong? The Vocalization and Accentuation of Ezekiel xxviii 12-19
Authors: Patmore Hector
Published: March 2008

In this article I argue that the Masoretic vowel pointing and accentuation of Ezekiel xxviii 12-19 have been added in such a way as to obscure the 'intended meaning' of the consonantal text. Focussing on verses 13 and 14 I ask first, how the scribes who have added the vocalisation and accentuation have read the text. Using the conventions of syntax and semantic range of the vocabulary employed I argue that the vocalisation and accentuation create an awkward reading of the consonantal text. I then suggest how the consonantal text might more 'naturally' be read. I conclude by making some tentative suggestions as to why the vocalisation and accentuation might have been added in the way that they have, and by posing some questions regarding the relationship of this text to Genesis ii-iii.
The Delinquent Daughter and Legal Innovation in Deuteronomy xxii 20-21
Authors: Fleishman Joseph
Published: March 2008

In this article I attempt to demonstrate that the part of the law in Deut xxii 20-21, which concerns the sin and punishment of a daughter who harms the honor of her parents and their authority over her, includes a legal innovation. The girl's behavior is tantamount to cursing her father and mother, a crime punishable by death according to Exod xxi 17. The girl's delinquency while still in her father's house led to her loss of virginity; it undermined her parents' authority, and consequently she deserved that severe penalty. The new law in Deuteronomy significantly restricts the applicability of such a sentence. Only in cases where a daughter has 'cursed' her parents by delinquent behavior (as in Deut xxii 20-21) is she sentenced to death.
An Examination of Synoptic Portions within the Vulgate
Authors: Everson David
Published: March 2008

In this article, the author compares the synoptic portions of Samuel/Kings and Chronicles within the Vulgate (i.e. examining Jerome's treatment of Hebrew temporal clauses, conjunctions, particles, word order, along with his omissions and additions) and considers those results in light of the remaining books of the Vulgate Old Testament. It is argued that Jerome became demonstrably less dependent upon the ancient versions and introduced innovations of translation theretofore unseen. This increasing sensitivity to Hebrew syntax reflected in the Vulgate of Chronicles and elsewhere would likewise suggest an increase in Jerome's knowledge and proficiency with regard to the Hebrew language.
"Beguile your soul" (Sir xiv 16; xxx 23): An Epicurean eme in Ben Sira
Authors: Holloway Paul
Published: March 2008

During the Hellenistic period, the different philosophical schools developed different theories and techniques of consolation. Epicurean technique called for distracting the mourner by pleasant memories and was widely practiced, even by those who were not philosophical hedonists. The technique was altered slightly as it passed into popular use, where in it came to be conceived as a kind of mental dissimulation or even as a therapeutic "beguiling" of the mind by any of a number of pleasant distractions. This forms the likely background to Ben Sira's advice to those confronting death at xiv 16 and xxx 23 to "beguile your soul," an observation that provides further evidence of Ben Sira's contact with and measured appropriation of Hellenistic intellectual culture.
Adamah (Earth): Searching for and Constructing a Jewish Relationship to Nature
Authors: Immergut Matthew
Published: March 2008

This article examines the Adamah (Earth) Fellowship, a multi-denominational Jewish, sustainable and organic farming program in Northwestern Connecticut. Using a micro-sociological framework, I present an analysis of how this group of young Jews is attempting to use religious language, text and ritual to create a meaningful relationship to nature. In this effort, individuals are self-reflective, picking, choosing and trying on various religious resources within but also outside of their tradition's boundaries. In conclusion, I discuss the struggle participants have in feeling "held" by the religious world they are constructing. This article contributes to understanding the growing number of land-based religious projects seeking to recover or renew a religiously inspired relationship to the earth.
An Ecological Politics of Everyday Life: Placing Flesh on Whitehead's Process Philosophy in Search of "Green" Possibilities
Authors: Carolan Michael
Published: March 2008

This paper highlights the significance of embodied, non-representational knowledge for understanding nature as a process (rather than a state). It begins by discussing Alfred North Whitehead's "first philosophy", out of which arises his profoundly original process ontology. Working from this alternative ontology, the paper then extends these insights "up" to the realms of knowledge, practice, and the corporeal poetics of everyday life. In doing this, discussion centers on what the author refers to as an ecological politics of everyday life. The paper concludes by briefly discussing a case where such a politics of the flesh is already underway.
Biodiversity and Sacred Sites: Vernacular Conservation Practices in Northwest Yunnan, China
Authors: Hakkenberg Christopher
Published: March 2008

Biodiversity conservation strategies around the world have been criticized when the goals of international organizations clash with the needs and traditions of local people. While the characterization of global conservation initiatives as a clash between scientifically-informed environmental policies and indigenous knowledge may retain discursive value in explaining the interaction of contending epistemologies, it is nonetheless an over-simplification of a dynamic, complicated and sometimes opaque and contradictory process. This paper sheds light on some of the conservation programs in southwest China as a case where these seemingly distinct knowledge regimes lie not in stark contrast, but in fact coexist within a localized discourse on biological and cultural diversity. In the example of the sacred site tradition of northwest Yunnan, disparate knowledge regimes have been negotiated and reinterpreted at the local, and even individual level to form dynamic and unique motivations for a conservation ethic. In this negotiation of indigenous and global epistemologies, classic distinctions separating global and local interests prove erroneous, or at the very least, unnecessary.
Air Quality Forecast Verification Using Satellite Data
Authors: Kondragunta S. , Lee P. , McQueen J. , Kittaka C. , Prados A. I. , Ciren P. , Laszlo I. , Pierce R. B. , Hoff R. , Szykman J. J.
Published: April 2008

NOAA’s operational geostationary satellite retrievals of aerosol optical depths (AODs) were used to verify National Weather Service developmental (research mode) particulate matter (PM2.5) predictions tested during the summer 2004 International Consortium for Atmospheric Research on Transport and Transformation/New England Air Quality Study (ICARTT/NEAQS) field campaign. The forecast period included long-range transport of smoke from fires burning in Canada and Alaska and a regional-scale sulfate event over the Gulf of Mexico and the eastern United States. Over the 30-day time period for which daytime hourly forecasts were compared with observations, the categorical (exceedance defined as AOD > 0.55) forecast accuracy was between 0% and 20%. Hourly normalized mean bias (forecasts − observations) ranged between −50% and +50% with forecasts being positively biased when observed AODs were small and negatively biased when observed AODs were high. Normalized mean errors are between 50% and 100% with the errors on the lower end during the 18–22 July 2004 time period when a regional-scale sulfate event occurred. Spatially, the errors are small over the regions where sulfate plumes were present. The correlation coefficient also showed similar features (spatially and temporally) with a peak value of ∼0.6 during the 18–22 July 2004 time period. The dominance of long-range transport of smoke into the United States during the summer of 2004, neglected in the model predictions, skewed the model forecast performance. Enhanced accuracy and reduced normalized mean errors during the time period when a sulfate event prevailed show that the forecast system has skill in predicting PM2.5 associated with urban/industrial pollution events.
The Oklahoma Dispersion Model: Using the Gaussian Plume Model as an Operational Management Tool for Determining Near-Surface Dispersion Conditions across Oklahoma
Authors: Carlson J. D. , Arndt Derek S.
Published: April 2008

The Oklahoma Dispersion Model (ODM) represents a current innovative application of the classic Gaussian plume model in an operational setting. Utilizing a statewide mesoscale automated weather station network (the Oklahoma Mesonet) for current weather conditions and 60-h gridded Nested Grid Model (NGM) model output statistics (MOS) forecasts for future conditions, the ODM is an Internet-based management tool that can be used to qualitatively assess current and future atmospheric dispersion conditions across Oklahoma for near-surface releases of gases and small particulates. The ODM is designed to qualitatively assess concentrations at ground level near the plume centerline at downwind distances of up to 4000 m. The Gaussian plume model is used in conjunction with rural Briggs sigma-y and sigma-z coefficients to estimate horizontal and vertical dispersion. Pasquill stability class is calculated in two ways: for current conditions, Oklahoma Mesonet weather data are used in conjunction with algorithms recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency; for forecast conditions, the Turner method is used. A method is employed that breaks the atmosphere into six dispersion categories, ranging from excellent to very poor. The ODM generates both graphical and text output. Statewide colored maps showing current conditions for dispersion (dilution of plume) and transport (direction of plume movement) are generated every 15 and 5 min, respectively. Similar maps for future conditions are generated every 12 h using gridded 60-h NGM MOS forecasts. In addition to graphical output, tabular output for future conditions at specific MOS locations is available. The ODM has been used as a management tool in the agriculture and natural resources arenas in conjunction with prescribed burning (smoke), pesticide application, and odors associated with animal agriculture.
Measuring Cloud Cover and Brightness Temperature with a Ground-Based Thermal Infrared Camera
Authors: Smith Stephen , Toumi Ralf
Published: April 2008

Thermal infrared cameras can be used to monitor clouds and the sky at high spatial and temporal resolutions. In particular, this study shows that, without the need for any external data, cloud cover can be retrieved both day and night over a field of view extending to zenith angles of ∼80°. Zenith clear sky temperatures are estimated for cloud cover up to 80%. During periods of 50% cloud cover or more the cloud-base brightness temperatures (CBBTs) can be calculated to an accuracy of ±1 K. These calculations are made possible by using a new parameterization for the variation of sky brightness temperature with zenith angle. Both clear and cloudy conditions are found to follow this simple empirical equation more closely than the widely used parameterization of Unsworth and Monteith. A simple, angle-dependent threshold system based on cloud transmittance can then be used to retrieve cloud cover, and clear sky temperature and CBBT are calculated using the two parameters resulting from the fitting process.
A Binned Approach to Cloud-Droplet Riming Implemented in a Bulk Microphysics Model
Authors: Saleeby Stephen M. , Cotton William R.
Published: April 2008

This paper presents the development and application of a binned approach to cloud-droplet riming within a bulk microphysics model. This approach provides a more realistic representation of collision–coalescence that occurs between ice and cloud particles of various sizes. The binned approach allows the application of specific collection efficiencies, within the stochastic collection equation, for individual size bins of droplets and ice particles; this is in sharp contrast to the bulk approach that uses a single collection efficiency to describe the growth of a distribution of an ice species by collecting cloud droplets. Simulations of a winter orographic cloud event reveal a reduction in riming when using the binned riming approach and, subsequently, larger amounts of supercooled liquid water within the orographic cloud.
Use of a Radar Simulator on the Output Fields from a Numerical Mesoscale Model to Analyze X-Band Rain Estimators
Authors: Zahiri E-P. , Gosset M. , Lafore J-P. , Gouget V.
Published: April 2008

A full radar simulator, which works with the 3D output fields from a numerical mesoscale model, has been developed. This simulator uses a T-matrix code to calculate synthetic radar measurements, accounts for both backscattering and propagation effects, and includes polarimetric variables. The tool is modular to allow several options in the derivation of the synthetic radar variables. A measurement uncertainty can be taken into account on both the simulated reflectivities and the differential phase shift. A scheme can also be switched on to allow for the gate-to-gate variability of the rain drops size distribution or, also, their oblateness. This work was done in the framework of the installation in West Africa of a polarimetric X-band radar for the observation of tropical rain. Accordingly, the first objective pursued with this simulation setup is a detailed analysis of X-band polarimetric rain retrieval algorithms. Two retrieval schemes, a simple R–KDP formula and a profiler that uses both reflectivity and ϕDP, are tested. For that purpose the simulator is run on a model case study of an African squall line, then the two schemes are used to retrieve the rain rates from the synthetic radar variables and compare them to the original. The scores of the schemes are discussed and compared. The authors analyze the sensitivity of the results to the measurement uncertainty and also to several aspects of drop size distribution and drop shape variability.
A New Technique to Categorize and Retrieve the Microphysical Properties of Ice Particles above the Melting Layer Using Radar Dual-Polarization Spectral Analysis
Authors: Spek A. L. J. , Unal C. M. H. , Moisseev D. N. , Russchenberg H. W. J. , Chandrasekar V. , Dufournet Y.
Published: April 2008

In this study, a dual-polarization spectral analysis for retrieval of microphysical properties of ice hydrometeors is developed. It is shown that, by using simultaneous Doppler polarimetric observations taken at a 45° elevation angle, it is possible to discriminate between different types of ice particles. Particle size distribution parameters for maximally two dominating types of ice particles (aggregates and plates) observed above the melting layer are retrieved. Prior to the retrieval algorithm, a selection of possible types of ice particles based on environmental conditions is carried out. The retrieval procedure is based on a least squares optimization that simultaneously minimizes fit residuals in a Doppler power spectrum and spectral differential reflectivity. The proposed method is illustrated on transportable atmospheric radar (TARA) observations of stratiform rain collected on 19 September 2001 at Cabauw, Netherlands.