bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural complexity of layered-spinel composite electrodes for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Cabana Jordi , Johnson Christopher S. , Yang Xiao-Qing , Chung Kyung-Yoon , Yoon Won-Sub , Kang Sun-Ho , Thackeray Michael M. , Grey Clare P.
Published: July 2010

The complexity of layered-spinelyLi2MnO3·(1 –y)Li1+xMn2–xO4(Li:Mn = 1.2:1; 0 ≤x≤ 0.33;y≥ 0.45) composites synthesized at different temperatures has been investigated by a combination of x-ray diffraction (XRD), x-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). While the layered component does not change substantially between samples, an evolution of the spinel component from a high to a low lithium excess phase has been traced with temperature by comparing with data for pure Li1+xMn2–xO4. The changes that occur to the structure of the spinel component and to the average oxidation state of the manganese ions within the composite structure as lithium is electrochemically removed in a battery have been monitored using these techniques, in some cases in situ. Our6Li NMR results constitute the first direct observation of lithium removal from Li2MnO3and the formation of LiMnO2upon lithium reinsertion.
Influence of high-temperature treatment of granular activated carbon on its structure and electrochemical behavior in aqueous electrolyte solution
Authors: Biniak Stanisław , Pakuła Maciej , Świątkowski Andrzej , Bystrzejewski Michał , Błażewicz Stanisław
Published: July 2010

Activated carbon Norit R3-ex (demineralized) was annealed at various temperatures (950–2700 °C) in an argon atmosphere. The changes of the porosity of the products were characterized on the basis of N2 adsorption isotherms (at 77 K). The texture of the samples was investigated by x-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The presence of surface oxygen (Fourier transform infrared) and its content in the surface layer (from energy dispersive spectroscopy) were determined. The electrical resistivity of powdered samples was measured. Cyclovoltammetry of carbon (powdered electrodes) were carried out and the electrical double-layer capacitances were estimated from the cyclic voltammetry curves. Heat treatment increased the degree of crystallization of the samples, which was correlated with changes in their conductivity. A rapid drop in porosity (at 1800–2100 °C) took place in parallel with a decrease in the electrical double layer capacity. The presence of surface oxygen as a result of oxygen chemisorption on freshly annealed carbon samples was confirmed using several methods.
Recent progress on manganese dioxide based supercapacitors
Authors: Xu Chengjun , Kang Feiyu , Li Baohua , Du Hongda
Published: July 2010

The increasing worldwide interest in MnO2for supercapacitor applications is based on anticipation that MnO2-based high-voltage aqueous supercapacitors will ultimately serve as a safe and low-cost alternative to state-of-the-art commercial organic-based electrochemical double-layer capacitors or RuO2-based acid systems. In this paper, the physicochemical features, synthesis methods, and charge storage mechanism of MnO2as well as the current status of MnO2-based supercapacitors are summarized and discussed in detail. The future opportunities and challenges related to MnO2-based supercapacitors have also been proposed.
Olivine electrode engineering impact on the electrochemical performance of lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Lu Wenquan , Jansen Andrew , Dees Dennis , Henriksen Gary
Published: July 2010

High energy and power density lithium iron phosphate was studied for hybrid electric vehicle applications. This work addresses the effects of porosity in a composite electrode using a four-point probe resistivity analyzer, galvanostatic cycling, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The four-point probe result indicates that the porosity of composite electrode affects the electronic conductivity significantly. This effect is also observed from the cell's pulse current discharge performance. Compared to the direct current (dc) methods used, the EIS data are more sensitive to electrode porosity, especially for electrodes with low porosity values.
Violência física entre parceiros íntimos na gestação como fator de risco para a má qualidade do pré-natal
Authors: Moraes Claudia Leite , Arana Flávia Dias Nogueira , Reichenheim Michael Eduardo
Published: July 2010

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a violência física entre parceiros íntimos durante a gestação como fator de risco independente para a má qualidade da assistência pré-natal. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal realizado em três maternidades públicas do município do Rio de Janeiro, RJ. As 528 puérperas incluídas no estudo foram selecionadas em processo de amostragem aleatória simples dentre o conjunto de nascidos vivos a termo em 2000. As informações sobre a assistência pré-natal foram obtidas a partir do cartão da gestante e por meio de entrevistas face a face. Para a avaliação da qualidade da assistência pré-natal utilizou-se o índice de Kotelchuck. Para a identificação das situações de violência, foi utilizada a versão brasileira do instrumento Revised Conflict Tactics Scales. Utilizou-se a regressão logística não condicional para avaliar o efeito da exposição, após controle de variáveis de confusão. RESULTADOS: Mesmo após o ajuste por variáveis socioeconômicas, demográficas, reprodutivas e relativas aos hábitos de vida do casal, a violência física entre parceiros íntimos durante a gestação permaneceu associada à má qualidade da assistência pré-natal. Mulheres que relataram ter sido vítimas de abuso físico durante a gestação possuíam 2,2 vezes mais chance de apresentar uma assistência pré-natal inadequada do que as sem história de violência física. CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados indicam a necessidade do rastreamento de situações de conflito familiar desde o início do pré-natal visando o seu enfrentamento e uma maior adesão das gestantes vitimizadas ao acompanhamento.
Pre‐tilt angle and cell‐gap measurement of vertically aligned non‐twisted liquid‐crystal displays
Authors: Cuypers Dieter , De Smet Herbert , Van Calster André
Published: July 2010

Abstract— A measurement method for the determination of the cell parameters of vertically aligned nematic LCOS devices has been developed. It provides the values for the pre‐tilt angle and the cell thickness in a reliable way, without the need for spectroscopic instruments. The method uses oblique incidence to separate the determination of pre‐tilt angle and cell thickness from each other and thus enhance the measurement accuracy. As a bonus, the measurement system consists only of simple optical components and does not need costly instruments.
Reduced cross‐talk in shutter‐glass‐based stereoscopic LCD
Authors: Hammer Martin , Langendijk Erno H. A.
Published: July 2010

Abstract— It is expected that 3‐D will be the next step in the enhanced viewing experience. At present, there are two competing 3‐D technologies for glasses‐based consumer TVs: active shutter glasses and passive polarized glasses. With the ongoing reduction in response time of liquid‐crystal displays (LCDs), this article will focus on shutter‐glass‐based stereoscopic LCDs. In this paper, the properties of such a display system is described and it is demonstrated that by adding a line‐scanning backlight, the cross‐talk can be reduced to less than 1.4%, allowing for excellent 3‐D portrayal. For images of extreme contrast, this is perceivable, but not judged annoying by a panel of expert viewers. Which characteristics of the display and shutter glasses that should be optimized to create an inexpensive, cross‐talk‐free, 3‐D LCD are discussed.
Green laser sources optimized for highly efficient microdisplay‐based field‐sequential mobile projectors
Authors: Shchegrov Andrei , Khaydarov John , Essaian Stepan , Nemet Greg , Soghomonyan Suren , Danielyan Hakob , Poghosyan Armen , Gabrielyan Gevorg
Published: July 2010

Abstract— A novel green laser source, based on a monolithic cavity microchip laser platform, has been developed. The laser is designed to be a part of a miniature and efficient RGB light source for microdisplay‐based mobile projector devices. The use of highly efficient, periodically poled MgO‐doped lithium niobate as the non‐linear frequency doubler allows for a significant increase in the overall efficiency of the green microchip laser. Specifically, a 50–150‐mW green output with a wall‐plug efficiency exceeding 10% in the temperature range of greater than 40°C has been demonstrated. A compact package for this laser source with a volume less than 0.33 cm3 is discussed and results of performance tests are presented.
PIN‐OLEDs for active‐matrix‐display use
Authors: Blochwitz‐Nimoth Jan , Langguth Oliver , Murano Sven , He Gufeng , Romainczyk Tilman , Birnstock Jan
Published: July 2010

Abstract— Novaled's PIN‐OLED® technology allows for highly efficient, temperature stable, and long‐lived OLEDs suited for a variety of display applications. This paper delivers an overview about Novaled's state of the art, including top‐ and bottom‐emitting structures. It is discussed how PIN‐OLEDs give rise to an increased manufacturing yield. The main focus of this paper is the development of white OLEDs for display use. When the RGBW color‐filter approach is used in combination with white OLEDs, the resulting full‐color OLED display is able to deliver high color quality and remain highly power efficient. For such a case, the manufacturing infrastructure of OLEDs for lighting can be used. We use tandem architectures, bottom‐ and top‐emission architectures, and developed specific high‐temperature stable OLED stacks. The importance of matching color coordinates of the white OLED and the targeted display white color point is of outstanding importance. Results have mainly been achieved under the German‐funded project CARO and the European‐funded project AMAZOLED.
Municipal wastewater characteristics in Thailand and effects of soft intervention measures in households on pollutant discharge reduction
Authors: Tsuzuki Y. , Koottatep T. , Jiawkok S. , Saengpeng S.
Published: July 2010

In developing countries with large Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) sanitation indicator, pollutant discharge reduction function of wastewater treatment systems should be considered. In this paper, pollutant generations per capita (PGCs) and pollutant discharges per capita (PDCs) are estimated as a base dataset for wastewater management in Thailand. PDCs of black water, i.e. toilet wastewater, are found to be much smaller than PGCs of black water. However, PDCs of gray water, i.e. municipal wastewater other than toilet wastewater are large. Gray water is often discharged without treatment and contributes much to ambient water deterioration. Moreover, possible 5-day biological oxygen demand (BOD5) discharge reductions with “soft interventions”, i.e. measurements in households to reduce wastewater pollutant discharge such as using a paper filter or a plastic net in kitchen sinks and so on, are estimated as 39, 21 and 34% for BOD5, total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) and phosphate (PO4-P), respectively. For the estimation, environmental accounting housekeeping (EAH) books of domestic wastewater, spreadsheets with pollutant discharges by water usages and possible effects of “soft interventions” are applied. The framework of this study with “soft intervention” effects on pollutant discharge reductions should enhance wastewater management especially in the areas under development of wastewater treatment systems.
Experimental investigation of oily wastewater treatment using combined membrane systems
Authors: Salahi A. , Mohammadi T.
Published: July 2010

Investigations were carried out for purification of oily wastewater by a combined of ultrafiltration/reverse osmosis (UF/RO) processes. Laboratory-scale UF using polysulfone (PS) and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) membranes were employed with typical oily wastewater collected from API unit of Tehran refinery. The PAN membrane showed higher rejection, more permeation flux and less fouling resistance than the PS membrane. Both membranes produced permeate with oil and grease contents generally less than 5 ppm. Rejection of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and biological oxygen demand (BOD5) were found to be 65% for UF treatment. In this work, Hermia's models were used to investigate the fouling mechanism involved in UF of the oily wastewater. The results showed that the best fit to experimental data corresponds to the cake layer formation model followed by the intermediate blocking model for both the UF membranes. For further treatment of the UF permeates, RO was applied using a thin film composite polyamide membrane. The rejection of COD, BOD5 and total dissolved solid (TDS) after UF/RO treatment increased up to 98%, 98% and 95%, respectively. The results showed that the final permeate has very high quality and even better than that is currently introduced to the cooling towers in Tehran refinery.
Flow field prediction in full-scale Carrousel oxidation ditch by using computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Yang Yin , Wu Yingying , Yang Xiao , Zhang Kai , Yang Jiakuan
Published: July 2010

In order to optimize the flow field in a full-scale Carrousel oxidation ditch with many sets of disc aerators operating simultaneously, an experimentally validated numerical tool, based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD), was proposed. A full-scale, closed-loop bioreactor (Carrousel oxidation ditch) in Ping Dingshan Sewage Treatment Plant in Ping Dingshan City, a medium-sized city in Henan Province of China, was evaluated using CFD. Moving wall model was created to simulate many sets of disc aerators which created fluid motion in the ditch. The simulated results were acceptable compared with the experimental data and the following results were obtained: (1) a new method called moving wall model could simulate the flow field in Carrousel oxidation ditch with many sets of disc aerators operating simultaneously. The whole number of cells of grids decreased significantly, thus the calculation amount decreased, and (2) CFD modeling generally characterized the flow pattern in the full-scale tank. 3D simulation could be a good supplement for improving the hydrodynamic performance in oxidation ditch designs.
Transformation of dissolved organic matter by oxidative polymerization with horseradish peroxidase
Authors: Jee S. H. , Kim Y. J. , Ko S. O.
Published: July 2010

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) has significant influence on the transport and fate of contaminants in multiple phases and it has potential hazard by acting as a precursor of disinfection by-products in water supply. The changes in DOM characteristics, especially by oxidative polymerization might result in different behaviour in the interaction with many contaminants. The aim of this work was to verify the catalytic effects of peroxidase on oxidative polymerization of humic and fulvic substances by examination of the structural characteristics. Transformation of humic acid (HA) and fulvic acid (FA) by oxidative polymerization catalyzed by horseradish peroxidase and hydrogen peroxide were investigated. Size exclusion chromatography, excitation–emission matrices spectra (EEMs), synchronous fluorescence spectra, and infrared spectroscopy was used to evaluate the structural transformation of HA and FA. Molecular weight of HA and FA was continuously changed and their weight-average molecular weight (MWw) reached maximum after 8 h. The MWw of HA and FA were proportionally increased with a dosage of horseradish peroxidase and hydrogen peroxide, indicating that HA and FA was transformed into larger and complex molecules. Spectroscopic results indicated that HA and FA structure contains strong polycyclic aromatic structures with more aromatic rings and a higher degree of conjugation.
Inequality and polarization analysis of urban water use in the Yangtze River Delta area, China
Authors: Zhang Zhiguo , Shao Yisheng
Published: July 2010

Inequality and polarization are terms usually used to describe the overall dispersion of income distribution and the phenomenon of a divided society with a disappearing middle class and increasing rich and poor populations. However, these terms have seldom been used in water sciences. In this paper, the concepts of inequality and polarization are employed to analyze the distribution of urban water use of different cities. Using for reference the conception of Gini coefficient, the EUWU (Equality of Urban Water Use) model is built to analyze the equality of urban water use. And, the PUWU (Polarization of Urban Water Use) model based on exponential functions, which can limit the index of polarization to the range (0, 1) effectively, is built to analyze the polarization of urban water use. Inequality and polarization of resident, industrial and commercial water use in 16 cities in the Yangtze River Delta, the fastest growing region of China, are evaluated using the EUWU model and PUWU model, respectively. The results show that inequality of residential, industrial and commercial water use has decreased by 6.5%, 11.2% and 8.4%, while the index of polarization has increased by 3.9%, 3.8% and 0.1% in Yangtze River Delta area from 2001 to 2006.
Cost comparison of wastewater treatment in Danubian countries
Authors: Zessner Matthias , Lampert Christoph , Kroiss H. , Lindtner S.
Published: July 2010

This paper investigates the costs of wastewater treatment (including sludge management) within the Danube catchment countries A, CZ, SK, HU, SL, RO, BG and UA. TK is considered as well. Additionally, the paper compares the total costs of wastewater management (including sewerage) with the incomes in the different countries. The annual costs of wastewater treatment in Austria are about 30 €/p.e. y for large plants with nitrogen and phosphorus removal. In low income countries of the Danube and Black Sea catchment areas they are at a maximum 30% lower than in Austria. However, the incomes in countries like Bulgaria, Romania or Ukraine are 85% to 90% lower. The total annual costs for wastewater management (sewer development plus treatment) amount at least to 90€/p.e. y. Considering the level of income in those countries, financing of wastewater management completely by charges of the population equivalents connected is not feasible. Therefore other approaches for financing wastewater treatment are required.
Impacts of using rainwater tanks on stormwater harvesting and runoff quality
Authors: Khastagir A. , Jayasuriya L. N. N.
Published: July 2010

The popularity of rainwater use in Australia depends completely on the individual householder's preference. The quality of reticulated water supplies in major cities of Australia is far superior to water stored in rainwater tanks. However, due to persistent drought and the implementation of stringent water restrictions, cities such as Melbourne have encouraged the use of rainwater harvesting within the property. The benefits of trapping stormwater within a property and using it effectively also reduce polluted runoff excess reaching receiving water. The study reported herein focuses on the effectiveness of rainwater tanks as a potential water sensitive urban design element used to manage stormwater using the MUSIC model. The study shows that the installation of a 3 kL tank reduces hydraulic loading by 75%, Total Suspended Solids by 97%, Total Phosphorous by 90% and Total Nitrogen by 81% if the rainwater stored in the tank is used to meet the indoor demand (toilet flushing and laundry use) as well as the outdoor demand (garden watering).
Evaluation of methanogenic treatment of TMAH (tetra-methyl ammonium hydroxide) in a full-scale TFT-LCD wastewater treatment process
Authors: Hu T. H. , Whang L. M. , Lei C. N. , Chen C. F. , Chiang T. Y. , Lin L. B. , Chen H. W. , Liu P. W. G. , Cheng S. S.
Published: July 2010

This study evaluated TMAH biodegradation under methanogenic conditions. Under methanogenic conditions, a sludge from a full-scale UASB treating TFT-LCD wastewater was able to degrade 2,000 mg/L of TMAH within 10 h and attained a specific degradation rate of 19.2 mgTMAH/gVSS-h. Furthermore, several chemicals including some surfactants, DMSO, and sulfate were examined for their potential inhibitory effects on TMAH biodegradation under methanogenic conditions. The results indicated that surfactant S1 (up to 2%) and DMSO (up to 1,000 mg/L) presented negligible inhibitory effects on TMAH degradation, while surfactant S2 (0.2–1%) might inhibit methanogenic reaction without any TMAH degradation for 3–5 h. At sulfate concentrations higher than 300 mg/L, a complete inhibition of methanogenic reaction and TMAH biodegradation was observed. Results from cloning and sequencing of archaeal 16S rRNA gene fragments showed that Methanosarcina barkeri and Methanosarcina mazei were the dominant methanogens in the UASB treating TMAH-containing TFT-LCD wastewater.
A hydrodynamic water quality model for propagation of pollutants in rivers
Authors: Mannina Giorgio , Viviani Gaspare
Published: July 2010

Numerical modelling can be a useful tool to assess a receiving water body's quality state. Indeed, the use of mathematical models in river water quality management has become a common practice to show the cause-effect relationship between emissions and water body quality and to design as well as assess the effectiveness of mitigation measures. In the present study, a hydrodynamic river water quality model is presented. The model consists of a quantity and a quality sub-model. The quantity sub-model is based on the Saint Venant equations. The solution of the Saint Venant equations is obtained by means of an explicit scheme based on space-time conservation. The method considers the unification of space and time and the enforcement of flux conservation in both space and time. On the other hand, the quality sub-model is based on the advection dispersion equation. Particularly, the principle of upstream weighting applied to finite difference methods is employed. This method enable us to reduce the numerical dispersion avoiding oscillation phenomena. The optimal weighting coefficient was calculated on the basis of the mesh Peclet number. Regarding the quality processes, the model takes into account the main physical/chemical processes; these are degradation of dissolved carbonaceous substances, ammonium oxidation, algal uptake and denitrification, dissolved oxygen balance, including depletion by degradation processes and supply by physical reaeration and photosynthetic production. To properly simulate the river water quality, four state variables were considered: DO, BOD, NH4, and NO. The model was applied to the Savena River (Italy), which is the focus of a European-financed project for which quantity and quality data were gathered. A sensitivity analysis of the model output compared to the model input or parameters was carried out.
Prediction of urban water demand on the basis of Engel's coefficient and Hoffmann index: case studies in Beijing and Jinan, China
Authors: Zhi-guo Zhang , Yi-sheng Shao , Zong-xue Xu
Published: July 2010

Domestic and industrial water uses are the most important segment of urban water consumption. Traditional urban water demand models are usually based on water consumption quotas or statistical relationships, which usually overestimate urban water demands. The efficiency of domestic and industrial water uses is associated with living standards and levels of industrialization. The correlation coefficient between per capita water consumption and Engel's Coefficient in Beijing and Jinan is 0.62 and 0.53, respectively. These values are much smaller than the correlation between added industrial value and the Hoffmann Index in Beijing (0.95) and Jinan (0.90). Demand models for urban water consumption, including a domestic water demand model based on Engel's Coefficient and an industrial water demand model based on the Hoffmann Index, were developed in this study to predict urban water demand in Beijing and Jinan for 2020. The results show that the models can effectively capture the trends of urban water demand. Urban water consumption in these two cities from 1995 to 2007 was used to calibrate the models. The coefficients of determination for residential and industrial water uses were 0.93 and 0.68 in Beijing, and 0.79 and 0.64 in Jinan. Social, economic and climate scenarios for Beijing and Jinan in 2020 were generated according to the Urban Master Plans for these two cities, and they formed the basis for predictions of water consumption in 2020. The results show that total water consumption will increase by 67.6% in Jinan and 33.0% in Beijing when compared with consumption from 2007.
Tylosin abatement in water by photocatalytic process
Authors: Alatrache A. , Laoufi N. A. , Pons M. N. , Van Deik J. , Zahraa O.
Published: July 2010

The photocatalytic degradation of a macrolide (tylosin) has been studied using immobilized titanium dioxide as photocatalyst in a laboratory reactor under UV illumination (365 nm). The degradation of the antibiotic and of the reaction intermediary product was monitored by UV spectrophotometry and HPLC. Three photocatalysts (P25 from Degussa and PC105 and PC500 from Millenium) immobilized on glass plates were compared. A slightly better degradation was obtained with P25. Then the tylosin degradation kinetics were investigated with the P25 photocatalyst. The kinetic model of Langmuir-Hinshelwood is satisfactorily obeyed at initial time and in the course of the reaction. Adsorption and apparent rate constants were determined. These results suggest that, although an intermediary by-product was detected during the reaction, complete degradation of tylosin can be achieved, which confirms the feasibility of such a photocatalytic treatment for tylosin elimination from wastewater.
Strengthening Communication Education in an Undergraduate Nursing Curriculum
Authors: Boschma Geertje , Einboden Rochelle , Groening Marlee , Jackson Cathryn , MacPhee Maura , Marshall Helga , O'Flynn Magee Kathy , Simpson Peggy , Tognazzini Paula , Haney Catherine , Croxen Hanneke , Roberts Erica
Published: July 2010

As effective communication is an essential professional competency that is conceptualized and developed during undergraduate education, the purpose of this study was to investigate and reinforce the role of communication in the nursing undergraduate curriculum. Analysis of faculty and student focus group discussions revealed the benefit of purposefully structuring and explicitly articulating communication education throughout the undergraduate curriculum for increased accessibility and visibility of communication education, expanded ranges of available teaching and learning methods and resources, and strengthened ability to address undermining mixed communication messages. These findings have implications for how to specifically include communication education in a learning-centered undergraduate curriculum.
A new method for constructing kernel vectors in morphological associative memories of binary patterns
Authors: Boutalis Yiannis
Published: July 2010

Kernel vectors represent an elegant representation for the retrieval of pattern associations, where the input patterns are corrupted by both erosive and dilative noise. However, their action completely fails when a particular kind of erosive noise, even of very low percentage, corrupts the input pattern. In this paper, a theoretical justification of this fact is given and a new method is proposed for the construction of kernel vectors for binary patterns associations. The new kernels are not binary but ?gray?, because they contain elements with values in the interval [0, 1]. It is shown, both theoretically and experimentally that the new kernel vectors carry the good properties of conventional kernel vectors and, at the same time, they can be easily computed. Moreover, they do not suffer from the particular noise deficiency of the conventional kernel vectors. The recalling result is in general a gray pattern, which in the sequel undergoes a simple thresholding action and passes through a simple Hamming network to produce high recall rates, even in heavily corrupted patterns. Retrieval of pattern associations is very significant for a variety of scientific disciplines including data analysis, signal and image understanding and intelligent control.
Chronic Gastritis Associated with Helicobacter pylori in Mexican Children: Histopathological Patterns
Authors: Jaramillo-Rodriguez Yolanda , Nares-Cisneros Jesús , Martínez-Ordaz Verónica Araceli , Velasco-Rodriguez Víctor Manuel , Márquez Francisco Carlos López , Manríquez-Covarrubias Luis Enrique
Published: July 2010

The objective of this study was to analyze the histopathological patterns of inflammation, distribution, severity, and degree of gastric mucosa of Helicobacter pylori (Hp)–infected children in Northern Mexico, as well as the correlation between colonization density and inflammation intensity. We carried out a cross-sectional study of gastric biopsies performed on children ranging from 2 to 17 years of age who underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy for diverse gastroduodenal disorders. This study includes only children who were found to be Hp carriers, with positive results for tests of Hp antigens in feces and in gastric biopsy studies. We studied 107 patients (age 8.2 ± 3.7 years). In 47.7% of patients, the density of Hp colonization was low; only 21.5% had a marked density. Mononuclear leukocyte infiltration showed a similar distribution. Thirty-seven percent of patients had follicular gastritis. An acute inflammatory response was absent in 65% and mild in 20.6% of patients. When inflammation was present, it was primarily located in the antrum (79%). There were no cases of intestinal metaplasia or atrophy. A link was found between Hp density and age, infiltration by mononuclear cells, the presence of follicular gastritis, and the level of neutrophil infiltration ( P = 0.001). Despite the high rates of Hp infection in the region, the histopathological findings in these children were mild and were limited primarily to the antral mucosa. These data indicate the need to study the behavior of this disease in children in diverse study populations to provide localized prevention and treatment strategies.
A dynamic method to measure the shear strength of snow
Authors: Nakamura Tsutomu , Abe Osamu , Hashimoto Ryuhei , Ohta Takeshi
Published: July 2010

A new vibration apparatus for measuring the shear strength of snow has been designed and fabricated. The force applied to a snow block is calculated using Newton’s second law. Results from this apparatus concerning the dependence of the shear strength on snow density, overburden load and strain rate are in reasonable agreement with those obtained from the work of previous researchers. Snow densities ranged from 160 to 320 kg m−3. The overburden load and strain rate ranged from 1.95 × 10−1to 7.79 × 10−1kPa and 2.9 × 10−4to 9.1 × 10−3s−1respectively.
Changes in Medical Education Dispensation: Gentle Breeze or Turbulent Wind
Authors: Yunus Emran Bin
Published: July 2010

DOI: 10.3329/jcmcta.v20i2.5616Journal of Chittagong Medical College Teachers' Association 2009: 20(2):1-2
Non Genetic Therapeutic Approach to the Muscular Dystrophies
Authors: Samee Tahseen , Al Hasan Suzon , Tabassum Muhatarima
Published: July 2010

Keywords: muscular dystrophies; therapyDOI: 10.3329/jcmcta.v20i2.5625Journal of Chittagong Medical College Teachers' Association 2009: 20(2):39-47
Emission Properties, Solubility, Thermodynamic Analysis and NMR Studies of Rare-Earth Complexes with Two Different Phosphine Oxides
Authors: Iwanaga Hiroki
Published: July 2010

The paper proposes novel molecular designs for rare-earth complexes involving the introduction of two different phosphine oxide structures into one rare-earth ion. These designs are effective for improving solubility and emission intensity. Additionally, the complexes are indispensable for realizing high performances in LEDs and security media. The thermodynamic properties of Eu(III) complexes are correlated with the solubility. Correlations between coordination structures and emission intensity were explained by NMR analysis. The luminous flux of red LED devices with Eu(III) complexes is very high (20 mA, 870 m lumen). A new white LED has its largest spectra intensity in the red region and a human look much more vividly under this light.
Rational Use of Antibiotics in the Treatment of Functional Bowel Disorders
Authors: Stefano Michele Di , Fasulo Roberta , Corazza Gino Roberto
Published: July 2010

Functional gastrointestinal symptoms such us bloating, fullness, flatulence, diarrhea, and constipation due to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) were recently attributed to small bowel bacterial overgrowth, a condition depending on the presence of an increased number of bacteria in the small bowel. However, the methodology used to describe this association may be harshly criticized, since it has already been shown to be quite inaccurate. As a result an inappropriate use of antibiotics was consequently generated. In fact, antibiotics could be effective in the treatment of functional complaints, but only in a limited subgroup of patients, characterized by an increase of fermentation at colonic level. In this review, we have examined the papers suggesting a pathophysiological link between IBS and small bowel bacterial overgrowth, underlining its inappropriateness, and put forth our personal view on the rationale for antibiotic use in IBS.
Measurement of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Clinical Trials Targeting Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders
Authors: David Renaud , Mulin Emmanuel , Mallea Patrick , Robert Philippe H.
Published: July 2010

Behavioral and psychological symptoms (BPSD) are now known to be frequently associated to cognitive and functional decline in Alzheimer‘s disease and related disorders. They are present since the early stages of the disease and have negative impact on the disease process. BPSD assessment is crucial in clinical practice and also in future clinical trials targeting disease-modifying therapies for dementia. In this article, we will first review current assessment tools for BPSD, mainly global and domain-specific scales, and new assessment methods, currently available or in development, including new scales, diagnostic criteria and new technologies such as ambulatory actigraphy.
A Sensor System for Detection of Hull Surface Defects
Authors: Navarro Pedro , Iborra Andrés , Fernández Carlos , Sánchez Pedro , Suardíaz Juan
Published: July 2010

This paper presents a sensor system for detecting defects in ship hull surfaces. The sensor was developed to enable a robotic system to perform grit blasting operations on ship hulls. To achieve this, the proposed sensor system captures images with the help of a camera and processes them in real time using a new defect detection method based on thresholding techniques. What makes this method different is its efficiency in the automatic detection of defects from images recorded in variable lighting conditions. The sensor system was tested under real conditions at a Spanish shipyard, with excellent results.
Malignant Melanoma Metastatic to the Larynx: Treatment and Functional Outcome
Authors: Lanson B.G. , Sanfilippo N. , Wang B. , Grew D. , DeLacure M.D.
Published: July 2010

The review considers management strategies for malignant melanoma metastatic to the larynx. This rare clinical entity lacks clear treatment recommendations because extirpative surgery can often result in severe functional debilitation in patients with limited life expectancy. Here, we report a case of melanoma metastatic to the larynx in a patient with a prior history of Hodgkin lymphoma. The patient was treated with partial laryngectomy and local radiation therapy. The rationale for treatment decisions and for surgical and radiotherapeutic techniques and the associated literature are discussed.
A Case for Tobacco Content Regulation by The U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Authors: du Toit J.A.
Published: July 2010

Although many people welcome the recent move by the United States to give its Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the authority to regulate the content of tobacco, some worry that such regulation constitutes unwarranted interference with the freedom of competent adult tobacco consumers. The concern for protecting the autonomy of individuals is valuable indeed, but given the highly addictive nature of tobacco products (and especially the nicotine in tobacco products), the continued use of tobacco by smokers cannot —without straining credulity—be said to be autonomous. This fact, combined with a proper construal of the fda’s role and an appreciation of the substantial morbidity and mortality associated with tobacco use, makes a strong case for content regulation.
La provincia de Antofagasta. Creación y consolidación de un territorio nuevo en el Estado chileno: 1888-1933
Authors: Gonzalez Pizarro José Antonio
Published: July 2010

Se examinan los diversos factores —geográficos, económicos, demográficos, políticos y legales— que incidieron en el debate parlamentario y posterior creación de la provincia de Antofagasta durante el gobierno de Balmaceda. Entre los aspectos diferenciadores que exhibió la provincia respecto a otros territorios chilenos, resaltó la herencia del periodo del la administración boliviana, en lo concerniente a las facultades municipales que incidió en el fortalecimiento de un discurso regionalista ante las pretensiones del estado chileno, respecto a la uniformidad jurídica. Se pasa revista a las diversas propuestas de estructuración político-administrativa del territorio de Antofagasta y las distintas modificaciones que afectaron a éste desde 1888 hasta 1933, poniendo énfasis en la complejidad del territorio en el ámbito internacional, nacional y local.
Consagrando a los ciudadanos. Procesos electorales comparados en la campaña de Buenos Aires durante la primera mitad del siglo XIX
Authors: Lanteri Sol , Santilli Daniel
Published: July 2010

El objetivo del trabajo es realizar un primer análisis comparativo de las prácticas electorales en la campaña de Buenos Aires desde la instauración de la ley de sufragio «amplio» en 1821 hasta el rosismo inclusive, a partir del estudio de jurisdicciones políticas diferenciadas como los partidos (mínima jurisdicción política) de Quilmes y Azul-Tapalqué, distanciadas geográfica e históricamente. A través de correspondencia, actas y listas electorales, etc., se examina de forma confrontada sus comportamientos electorales vinculados a los aspectos socio- demográficos, económicos y culturales, recalcando la importancia de los sectores medios y subalternos, y de la negociación y el consenso en el proceso.
Study of Conduction Mechanism in Amorphous Se85-xTe15Bix Thin Films
Authors: Sharma Ambika , Barman P.B.
Published: July 2010

Bulk samples of Se85-xTe15Bix (where x = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5) glassy alloys are prepared by melt quenching technique. Thin films of the corresponding bulk samples are prepared by vacuum evaporation technique. I-V characteristics of Se85-xTe15Bix thin films are studied using Keithley 6487 picoammeter. Linear behavior of current has been observed at low voltage range and current is found to deviate from linearity i.e. tend towards non-Ohmic behavior in the higher voltage range. The value of resistance is also calculated in three different voltage ranges (0-90 V), (110-200 V) and (220-300 V) for the films under consideration. Maximum resistance has been observed for x = 1 and minimum resistance for x = 5. The conduction mechanism is discussed qualitatively and it is found to be of Poole Frenkel type for higher voltage range.
Investigations of the Gyromagnetic Factors for the Ni3+ Center in MgO
Authors: Li Xue Mei
Published: July 2010

The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) gyromagnetic factors for the Ni3+ center in MgO are theoretically investigated using the improved g formulas for a tetragonally elongated octahedral 3d7 complex suffering the dynamical Jahn-Teller effect. From the studies, the impurity Ni3+ center is found to undergo the relative elongation along the tetragonal axis by about 1%. The calculated g value shows good agreement with the observed result, and the improvement in the theoretical calculations is achieved in this work as compared with the previous treatments. The local structure of the impurity center is discussed.
The Effect of Droplet Diameter on the Separation of Heavy-Oil from Water Using a Hydrocyclone
Authors: Farias F.P.M. , Buriti C.J.O. , Barbosa de Lima W.C.P. , Neto S.R.F. , de Lima Antônio Gilson Barbosa
Published: July 2010

The hydrocyclone is an alternative for produced water treatment in the petroleum industries, especially at offshore fields. Many parameters, such as oil droplet diameter affect the separation performance of the hydrocyclone. In this sense, the purpose of this work is study the effect of oil droplet diameter and inlet fluid on the separation efficiency of a hydrocyclone to remove dispersed heavy-oil from a water continuous stream. Results of the streamline, pressure drop, volume fraction and efficiency of separation as a function of oil droplet diameter and feed velocity are presented and analyzed.
Non-Gaussian Diffusion of Phosphorus and Arsenic in Silicon with Local Density Diffusivity Model
Authors: Wirbeleit Frank
Published: July 2010

In the light of published phosphorus and arsenic diffusion profiles [1,2] a non-Gaussian mathematical diffusion model is developed in this work based on separate forward and reflected impurity diffusion flows and called local density diffusion (LDD) model. The LDD model includes the rational function diffusion (RFD) model published in [3] and represents an improvement for near surface and tail concentration profile slope approximation by introducing just one single empirical fit parameter “r”. This single fit parameter is related to the given combination of impurity species (phosphorus: r=0.18; arsenic: r=0.43) in the applied host lattice system (silicon), but does not vary while approximating different experiments with different impurity surface concentrations and penetration depths [1,2]. Based on the LDD approximation in this work a surface enhanced diffusivity for phosphorus and a tail decelerated diffusion for arsenic is suggested in comparison to RFD model approximation only. The local density diffusivity is found to be non-linear along the penetration path and reaches its maximum at a distance LLDD from the surface.
Liquid-Phase Sintering of Tungsten Heavy Alloys
Authors: Moustafa S.F. , Kaitbay S.H. , Abdo G.M.
Published: July 2010

Elemental powders of tungsten, nickel, iron and cobalt of compositions corresponding to (W-3.2Ni-0.8%Fe), (W-3.5Ni-1.5%Fe), and (W-4.5Ni-1.0Fe-1.5%Co) were mechanically alloyed in a tumbler rod mill for 2 hrs. Mechanically alloyed powders were liquid phase sintered at 1500oC for 90 min in vacuum. The sintered materials were heated up to 1150-1200oC in vacuum atmosphere, followed by quenching in water to suppress the impurity segregated at grain boundary. The sintered materials were subjected to cold-working by swaging from 8-30% reduction in area. The swaged specimens were age-hardened at 700oC. Full characterization for both the elemental powders and the sintered tungsten alloys were performed using optical microscopy, SEM analysis, EDS quantitative analysis, X-ray diffraction, hardness and compression testing. This paper will discuss the effects of the elemental powders characterization and the liquid phase sintering parameters on the microstructure and strength of these three tungsten heavy alloys.
Introduction to the Nanoworld
Authors: Wautelet Michel
Published: July 2010

Nanosciences and nanotechnology (NST) constitute currently a major research field all over the world. NST deal with the study of phenomena and manipulation of materials at atomic, molecular and macromolecular scales, where properties differ significantly from those at the larger scale. The properties of materials can be different at the nanoscale for two main reasons : size and quantum effects. Effects negligible at the macroscopic level become important at the nanometer scale, and vice versa. Scaling laws are described in order to understand some differences. Moreover, geometric arguments are necessary to understand the origin of some physical and chemical properties of nanosystems. On the other hand, quantum effects can begin to dominate the behaviour of matter at the nanoscale – particularly at the lower end – affecting the optical, electrical and magnetic behaviour of materials. The characteristic dimensions for which the properties change from the “macro-“ to the “nano-“ regimes are discussed.
Size Dependence of Optical Properties in Semiconductor Nanocrystals
Authors: Yang C.C. , Li S.
Published: July 2010

An extension of the classic thermodynamic theory to nanometer scale has generated a new interdisciplinary theory - nanothermodynamics. It is the critical tool for the investigation of the size-dependent physicochemical properties in nanocrystals. A simple and unified nanothermodynamic model for the melting temperature of nanocrystals has been established based on Lindemann’s criterion for the melting, Mott’s expression for the vibrational melting entropy, and Shi’s model for the size dependence of the melting point. The developed model has been extensively verified in calculating a variety of size- and dimensionality-dependent phase transition functions of nanocrystals. In this work, such a model was extended to explain the underlying mechanism behind the bandgap energy enhancement and Raman red shifts in semiconductor nanocrystals by (1) investigating the crystal size r, dimensionality d, and constituent stoichiometry x dependences of bandgap energies Eg in semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) and quantum wires (QWs); and (2) revealing the origin of size effect on the Raman red shifts in low dimensional semiconductors by considering the thermal vibration of atoms. For Eg, it is found that: (1) Eg increases with a decreasing r for groups IV, III-V and II-VI semiconductors and the quantum confinement effect is pronounced when r becomes comparable to the exciton radius; (2) the ratio of Eg(r, d)QWs/Eg(r, d)QDs is size-dependent, where Eg(r, d) denotes the change in bandgap energy; (3) the crystallographic structure (i.e. zinc-blende and wurtzite) effect on Eg of III-V and II-VI semiconductor nanocrystals is limited; and (4) for both bulk and nanosized III-V and II-VI semiconductor alloys, the composition effects on Eg are substantial, having a common nonlinear (bowing) relationship. For the Raman red shifts, the lower limit of vibrational frequency was obtained by matching the calculation results of the shifts with the experimental data of Si, InP, CdSe, CdS0.65Se0.35, ZnO, CeO2, as well as SnO2 nanocrystals. It shows that: (1) the Raman frequency (r) decreases as r decreases in both narrow and wide bandgap semiconductors; (2) with the same r, the sequence of size effects on (r) from strong to weak is nanoparticles, nanowires, and thin films; and (3) the Raman red shift is caused by the size-induced phonon confinement effect and surface relaxation. These results are consistent with experimental findings and may provide new insights into the size, dimensionality, and composition effects on the optical properties of semiconductors as well as fundamental understanding of high-performance nanostructural semiconductors towards their applications in optoelectronic devices.
Size Effects in Electroformed Nanomaterials
Authors: Erb Uwe
Published: July 2010

This paper reviews size effects in nanocrystalline metals and alloys made by electroforming, a particular form of electrodeposition. The main size effects in these fully dense, three-dimensional nanomaterials come from grain size reduction to less than 5 nm and down towards the limit of the amorphous structure. Details will be given on the synthesis of such materials and their microstructural characteristics including reduced crystal size and intercrystalline defect density. Properties which show either weak or strong grain size dependence will be discussed and compared with the structure-sensitivity of various properties in conventional polycrystalline materials.