bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From the Casimir Limit to Phononic Crystals: 20 Years of Phonon Transport Studies Using Silicon-on-Insulator Technology
Authors: Marconnet Amy M. , Asheghi Mehdi , Goodson Kenneth E.
Published: May 2013

Silicon-on-insulator (SOI) technology has sparked advances in semiconductor and MEMs manufacturing and revolutionized our ability to study phonon transport phenomena by providing single-crystal silicon layers with thickness down to a few tens of nanometers. These nearly perfect crystalline silicon layers are an ideal platform for studying ballistic phonon transport and the coupling of boundary scattering with other mechanisms, including impurities and periodic pores. Early studies showed clear evidence of the size effect on thermal conduction due to phonon boundary scattering in films down to 20 nm thick and provided the first compelling room temperature evidence for the Casimir limit at room temperature. More recent studies on ultrathin films and periodically porous thin films are exploring the possibility of phonon dispersion modifications in confined geometries and porous films.
Thermal Issues in Materials Processing
Authors: Jaluria Yogesh
Published: May 2013

This paper considers the thermal aspects that frequently arise in practical materials processing systems. Important issues such as feasibility, product quality, and production rate have a thermal basis in many cases and are discussed. Complexities such as property variations, complex regions, combined transport mechanisms, chemical reactions, combined heat and mass transfer, and intricate boundary conditions are often encountered in the transport phenomena underlying important practical processes. The basic approaches that may be adopted in order to study such processes are discussed. The link between the basic thermal process and the resulting product is particularly critical in materials processing. The computational difficulties that result from the non-Newtonian behavior of the fluid, free surface flow, moving boundaries, and imposition of appropriate boundary conditions are important in several processes and are discussed. Some of the important techniques that have been developed to treat these problems are presented, along with typical results for a few important processes. Validation of the model is a particularly important aspect and is discussed in terms of existing results, as well as development of experimental arrangements to provide inputs for satisfactory validation. The importance of experimentation and linking the micro/nanoscale transport processes with conditions and systems at the macroscale are discussed. Future trends and research needs, particularly with respect to new materials and new processes, are also outlined.
Evolution of Physics and Chemistry of Surfaces and Interfaces: A Perspective of the Last 40 Years
Authors: Ferry David K.
Published: May 2013

The Physics and Chemistry of Surfaces and Interfaces conference has maintained a focus on the interfacial and surface properties of materials since its initiation in 1974. The conference continues to be a major force in this field, bringing together scientists from a variety of disciplines to focus upon the science of interfaces and surfaces. Here, a historical view of the development of the conference and a discussion of some of the themes that have been focal points for many years are presented.
Grid artifact reduction for direct digital radiography detectors based on rotated stationary grids with homomorphic filtering
Authors: Kim Dong Sik , Lee Sanggyun
Published: May 2013

Purpose:

Grid artifacts are caused when using the antiscatter grid in obtaining digital x‐ray images. In this paper, research on grid artifact reduction techniques is conducted especially for the direct detectors, which are based on amorphous selenium.

Methods:

In order to analyze and reduce the grid artifacts, the authors consider a multiplicative grid image model and propose a homomorphic filtering technique. For minimal damage due to filters, which are used to suppress the grid artifacts, rotated grids with respect to the sampling direction are employed, and min‐max optimization problems for searching optimal grid frequencies and angles for given sampling frequencies are established. The authors then propose algorithms for the grid artifact reduction based on the band‐stop filters as well as low‐pass filters.

Results:

The proposed algorithms are experimentally tested for digital x‐ray images, which are obtained from direct detectors with the rotated grids, and are compared with other algorithms. It is shown that the proposed algorithms can successfully reduce the grid artifacts for direct detectors.

Conclusions:

By employing the homomorphic filtering technique, the authors can considerably suppress the strong grid artifacts with relatively narrow‐bandwidth filters compared to the normal filtering case. Using rotated grids also significantly reduces the ringing artifact. Furthermore, for specific grid frequencies and angles, the authors can use simple homomorphic low‐pass filters in the spatial domain, and thus alleviate the grid artifacts with very low implementation complexity.
Comment on “ApoE-Directed Therapeutics Rapidly Clear β-Amyloid and Reverse Deficits in AD Mouse Models”
Authors: Fitz Nicholas F. , Cronican Andrea A. , Lefterov Iliya , Koldamova Radosveta
Published: May 2013

Cramer
et al
. (Reports, 23 March 2012, p. 1503; published online 9 February 2012) demonstrated in a mouse model for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) that treatment of APP/PS1ΔE9 mice with bexarotene decreased Aβ pathology and ameliorated memory deficits. We confirm the reversal of memory deficits in APP/PS1ΔE9 mice expressing human APOE3 or APOE4 to the levels of their nontransgenic controls and the significant decrease of interstitial fluid Aβ, but not the effects on amyloid deposition.
Targeting Isoprenylcysteine Methylation Ameliorates Disease in a Mouse Model of Progeria
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamed X. , Sayin Volkan I. , Akula Murali K. , Liu Meng , Fong Loren G. , Young Stephen G. , Bergo Martin O.
Published: May 2013

Methylation and Methuselah?

Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) and other prelamin A–associated progeroid disorders arise when farnesylated and methylated forms of prelamin A accumulate at the nuclear envelope.

Ibrahim
et al.

(p.
1330
, published online 16 May; see the Perspective by

Johnson

) show that reducing the activity of the isoprenylcysteine carboxyl methyltransferase (ICMT) mislocalizes prelamin A, triggers prelamin A–dependent AKT-mTOR signaling, and eliminates disease phenotypes in 30-week-old progeria model mice. Reduced ICMT expression increased the proliferation and delayed the premature senescence of progeria model mouse fibroblasts and cells from children with HGPS.
Complete Closed Genome Sequences of Mannheimia haemolytica Serotypes A1 and A6, Isolated from Cattle
Authors: Harhay Gregory P. , Koren Sergey , Phillippy Adam M. , McVey D. Scott , Kuszak Jennifer , Clawson Michael L. , Harhay Dayna M. , Heaton Michael P. , Chitko-McKown Carol G. , Smith Timothy P. L.
Published: May 2013

Mannheimia haemolytica
is a respiratory pathogen affecting cattle and related ruminants worldwide.
M. haemolytica
is commonly associated with bovine respiratory disease complex (BRDC), a polymicrobial multifactorial disease. We present the first two complete closed genome sequences of this species, determined using an automated assembly pipeline requiring no manual finishing.
Complete Genome Sequence of West Nile Virus Isolated from Alappuzha District, Kerala, India
Authors: Balakrishnan Anukumar , Butte Datta K. , Jadhav Santhosh M.
Published: May 2013

West Nile virus belongs to the
Flaviviridae
family, transmitted by vector mosquitoes. Here, we reported the complete genome sequence of West Nile virus isolated from human samples during an acute encephalitis outbreak in Kerala, India. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the virus genome clusters into genetic lineage 1, clade 1a.
Genome Sequence of Bacillus subtilis MB73/2, a Soil Isolate Inhibiting the Growth of Plant Pathogens
Dickeya
spp. and Rhizoctonia solani
Authors: Krzyzanowska Dorota M. , Iwanicki Adam , Ossowicki Adam , Obuchowski Michał , Jafra Sylwia
Published: May 2013

Bacillus subilis
MB73/2 is a Gram-positive bacterium isolated in Poland from a meadow soil sample. When tested
in vitro
, the strain shows strong antagonism toward plant pathogens—the soft rot-causing bacteria
Dickeya
spp. and the crown rot fungus
Rhizoctonia solani
. Here, we present the genome sequence of MB73/2.
Draft Genome Sequence of Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens Strain UCD-AKU (Phylum
Actinobacteria
)
Authors: Flanagan Jennifer C. , Lang Jenna M. , Darling Aaron E. , Eisen Jonathan A. , Coil David A.
Published: May 2013

Here we present the draft genome of an actinobacterium,
Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens
strain UCD-AKU, isolated from a residential carpet. The genome assembly contains 3,692,614 bp in 130 contigs. This is the first member of the
Curtobacterium
genus to be sequenced.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Novel Reassortant H3N6 Avian Influenza Virus Isolated from Domestic Green-Winged Teal
Authors: Xiong Chaochao , Liu Qian , Chen Quanjiao , Yao Yanfeng , Wang Huadong , Chen Jianjun
Published: May 2013

An avian influenza virus strain, A/domestic green-winged teal/Hunan/2036/2007(H3N6) (DGW-T2036), was isolated from healthy domestic green-winged teals (
Anas crecca
) in Hunan Province, South China. All eight gene segments of the isolate were sequenced. Genomic analysis demonstrated that this H3N6 virus is a novel reassortant avian influenza virus with a gene constellation originating from multiple ancestors.
Does physical activity during pregnancy adversely influence markers of the metabolic syndrome in adult offspring? A prospective study over two decades
Authors: Danielsen Inge , Granström Charlotta , Rytter Dorte , Hammer Bech Bodil , Brink Henriksen Tine , Vaag Allan Arthur , Olsen Sjurdur Frodi
Published: May 2013

Background

It is unknown whether physical activity during pregnancy (PA) has long-term impact on the metabolic profile of the offspring. We investigated associations of PA with markers of the metabolic syndrome (MS) in 20y old offspring.

Methods

Longitudinal study where 965 pregnant women during 1988–1989 had four dimensions of PA assessed by questionnaires in gestation week 30: PA at work; leisure time PA, daily amount of walking-biking and sport participation. The following MS markers were assessed in the offspring (n=439): body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance as well as fasting plasma glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol), insulin and leptin levels.

Results

Walking-biking PA in pregnancy is associated with unchanged or subtle, adverse changes of distinct MS markers among offspring including lower levels of HDL cholesterol (ratio 0.95 (95% CI 0.92 to 0.98) per 1 h increment in walking-biking), a higher diastolic blood pressure (difference 1.12 (95% CI 0.03 to 2.20) mm Hg/1 h increment) and a higher BMI (ratio 1.03 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.05) per 1 h increment). In separate analyses in males, these associations persisted and additional adverse associations were found for triglycerides, systolic blood pressure, waist circumference and leptin. No associations were detected with other measures of PA.

Conclusions

The study did not substantiate any protective effects of PA in pregnancy. In contrast, data suggested that high amounts of daily walking-biking in pregnancy may have adverse effects on levels of HDL cholesterol, diastolic blood pressure and BMI in young adult offspring.
Preparing residents for future practice: report of a curriculum for electronic patient–doctor communication
Authors: Crotty Bradley H , Mostaghimi Arash , Landon Bruce E
Published: May 2013

Objectives

Patients frequently use secure web portals to access their medical record and communicate with their doctors, though few institutions currently train residents for electronic communication. We sought to develop a curriculum for secure messaging between patients and resident physicians, and to assess resident attitudes before and after the curriculum.

Methods

In 2011, we developed a curriculum for patient–doctor secure messaging using a web-based patient portal within an internal medicine residency programme. We asked all residents to perform a self-assessment of skills, and report attitudes toward electronic communication at the beginning and end of the experience (9 months apart). We enrolled residents who practiced at the hospital-based clinic site into the patient portal, and recorded usage statistics.

Results

The completed survey response rate was 108/159 (68%). At baseline, 57% of residents had used traditional email with patients, and most residents felt that the portal would increase work for providers but benefit patients. Postintervention questionnaires demonstrated no significant changes among all respondents, but residents who used the portal perceived improvements in care. Most residents were concerned about professional liability. More residents felt comfortable writing electronic messages to patients after the curriculum (80% to 91%, p=0.01).

Conclusions

Implementing a patient web portal and secure messaging in a residency clinic is feasible and may improve the work and educational experience of trainees. Residents were initially sceptical of secure messaging being an additional burden to their work, but this was not realised among residents who used the portal.
Female sex workers incarcerated in New York City jails: prevalence of sexually transmitted infections and associated risk behaviors
Authors: Parvez Farah , Katyal Monica , Alper Howard , Leibowitz Ruth , Venters Homer
Published: May 2013

Objectives

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are an important cause of morbidity among incarcerated women and female sex workers (FSW). Little is known about FSW incarcerated in New York City (NYC) jails. We reviewed jail health records to identify the STI and HIV prevalence among newly incarcerated FSW in NYC jails. We also examined the relationship of demographics and self-reported clinical and risk behaviour history with FSW status and compared FSW with non-FSW incarcerated women to identify FSW predictors and, guide NYC jail programme planning and policy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed routinely collected jail health record data to identify the prevalence of chlamydia (Ct), gonorrhoea (Ng) and HIV infection among women newly incarcerated in NYC jails in 2009–2010 (study period) and studied the relationship of STIs, demographics and self-reported clinical and risk behaviour history with FSW status.

Results

During the study period, 10 828 women were newly incarcerated in NYC jails. Of these, 10 115 (93%) women were tested for Ct and Ng; positivity was 6.2% (95% CI 5.7% to 6.7%) and 1.7% (95% CI 1.4% to 1.9%), respectively. Nine percent had HIV infection. Seven hundred (6.5%) were defined as FSW. FSW were more likely to have Ct (adjusted OR (AOR): 1.55; 95% CI 1.17 to 2.05; p<0.0001) but not Ng or HIV. FSW were more likely to report age 20–24 years, reside in boroughs other than Manhattan, ≥6 prior incarcerations, ≥2 incarcerations during the study period, condom use with current sex partners, multiple sex partners and current drug use.

Conclusions

Women incarcerated in NYC jails had high rates of Ct, Ng, and HIV infection. FSW were at higher risk for Ct than non-FSW incarcerated women. These findings are being used to design targeted interventions to identify FSW, provide clinical and preventive services in jail and coordinate care with community partners.
WHAT HINDERS CROSS-BORDER PORTFOLIO INVESTMENT IN EAST ASIA?
Authors: PARK DAEKEUN , SHIN INSEOK
Published: May 2013

We examine statistical importance of a number of institutional factors, which have been alleged by market investors and policy commentators as significant barriers on cross-border portfolio investment in East Asian economies, but never been put to empirical tests yet. Taking advantage of the novel data set constructed by the ABMI-GoE, we empirically investigate the explanatory power of such institutional factors as market access-hindering regulations, foreign exchange controls, credit controls, taxation and inefficient post-trading infrastructure. We find that these alleged barriers indeed have significantly negative impacts on cross-border portfolio investment in East Asian economies. In addition, we find some support for the "pecking order" hypothesis in barriers on cross-border portfolio investment in the sense that barriers on post-trading efficiency and cost barriers are not effective unless barriers on market access are significantly lowered.
THE W BOSON MASS MEASUREMENT USING THE COLLIDER DETECTOR AT FERMILAB
Authors: ZENG YU
Published: May 2013

As one of the most important parameters in the Standard Model (SM), the mass of the W boson (mW) is currently the limiting factor in our ability to tighten the constraint on the mass of the Higgs boson (mH) within the SM framework. This review summarizes the world's most precise mW measurement to date using ~2.2 fb -1 data collected in [Formula: see text] collisions at [Formula: see text] with the CDF II detector at the Fermilab Tevatron Collider. This review will first describe the motivation for improving the precision of mW measurement, then present the details of this analysis, followed by the final measurement result and the future perspective.
CHARGE RADII OF SPIN $\frac{1}{2}^+$ AND SPIN $\frac{3}{2}^+$ CHARMED BARYONS IN THE CHIRAL CONSTITUENT QUARK MODEL
Authors: SHARMA NEETIKA , DAHIYA HARLEEN
Published: May 2013

The chiral constituent quark model (χCQM) with general parametrization method (GPM) has been extended to calculate the charge radii of the charmed spin [Formula: see text] and spin [Formula: see text] baryons. The implications of such a model have been investigated for the effects of symmetry breaking and GPM parameters pertaining to the one-, two- and three-quark contributions. It is found that the χCQM along with these effects is successful in giving a quantitative and qualitative description of the charge radii of charmed baryons. In particular, it is able to account for the nonzero values of charge radii for the neutral charmed baryons.
SUPERSYMMETRY BREAKING IN ANTI-DE SITTER SPACE–TIME
Authors: ZHU BIN , MENG KUN , DING RAN
Published: May 2013

We study the questions of how supersymmetry is spontaneously broken in anti-de Sitter space–time. We verify that the would-be R-symmetry in AdS4 plays a central role for the existence of meta-stable supersymmetry breaking. To illustrate, some well-known models such as Poloyni models and O'Raifeartaigh models are investigated in detail. Our calculations are reliable in flat space–time limit and confirm us that meta-stable vacua are generic even though quantum corrections are taken into account.
SCATTERING OF ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION BY A TIME REVERSAL PERTURBATION TOPOLOGICAL INSULATOR CIRCULAR CYLINDER
Authors: ZENG LUNWU , SONG RUNXIA , JIAN XINGLIANG
Published: May 2013

In this paper, we studied the electromagnetic wave scattered by a time reversal symmetry broken topological insulator circular cylinder. According to the constitutive relations of topological insulator and Maxwell's equation, we derived the scattered electromagnetic fields and scattered coefficients. Numerical results show that the scattered width of the time reversal symmetry topological insulator circular cylinder is extraordinarily different from the width produced by the time reversal symmetry broken topological insulator.
PHOTONIC BAND GAP EFFECT ON ENERGY TRANSFER IN Tb3+, Eu3+ CO-DOPED TiO2 INVERSE OPAL FILMS
Authors: LIU ZHENDONG , ZHOU JI , LI BO
Published: May 2013

The energy transfer from Tb 3+ to Eu 3+ co-doped TiO 2( TiO 2: Tb , Eu ) inverse opal photonic crystals was investigated by photoluminescence. The results showed that the photonic band gap enhanced energy transfer from the donor Tb 3+ to the acceptor Eu 3+. When the fluorescence emission wavelength of Tb 3+ overlaps with the photonic band gap, the fluorescence intensity of Tb 3+ is suppressed, while the fluorescence intensity of Eu 3+ is enhanced. Energy transfer efficiencies were attributed to the tuning effects of energy transfer in the photoluminescence process by photonic crystal structure.
CFD-BASED RESEARCH ON THE LOAD-BEARING CAPACITY OF ASYMMETRIC TEXTURE WITH DIFFERENT REYNOLDS NUMBER
Authors: ZHAO YUNCAI , HAN LEI
Published: May 2013

A two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model was developed to study the load-bearing capacity of asymmetric texture under the state of fluid lubrication. The effects of asymmetric parameter H and the Reynolds number Re on hydrodynamic load-bearing capacity of the oil film were discussed. It was found that a decrease in asymmetric parameter H may significantly improve the load-bearing capacity, but an increase in Reynolds number Re may reduce this effect. For example, with a Re at 20, the load-bearing capacity increases by 73.44% with the H varying from 4 to 0.2. However, with a Re at 160, it has only an increase of 4.68% at the same conditions. In addition, the numerical results also showed that the load-bearing capacity will increase with the increase of Re in certain texture.
STRUCTURES AND SPECTROSCOPIC PROPERTIES OF THREE AROMATIC HETEROCYCLIC DYE PHOTOSENSITIZERS
Authors: LI YUANZUO , SUN CHAOFAN , YANG LINPO
Published: May 2013

The ground-state structures and absorption spectra of three dyes, carbazole, phenothiazine and diphenylamine, were studied by the density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT). The strong absorption peak, electron transition as well as the energy levels of molecular orbitals were obtained and compared in the gas and solvent phase. Furthermore, we further calculated the effect of the expanding conjugated bridge on the absorption spectra and the energy levels of molecular orbitals. Visualized method of charge difference density (CDD) was used to show the direction of charge transfer in the molecules of interest during photo-excitation.
PARTICULATE SUSPENSION FLOW INDUCED BY SINUSOIDAL PERISTALTIC WAVES THROUGH ECCENTRIC CYLINDERS: THREAD ANNULAR
Authors: MEKHEIMER KH. S. , ABD ELMABOUD Y. , ABDELLATEEF A. I.
Published: May 2013

This paper describes a new model for obtaining analytical solutions of peristaltic flow through eccentric annuli. A mathematical model of peristaltic pumping of a fluid mixture (as blood model) in a circular eccentric cylinders is presented and it is motivated due to the fact that thread injection is a promising method for placing medical implants within the human body with minimum surgical trauma. For the eccentric annuli, the inner cylinder is rigid and moving with a constant velocity V, and the outer one is hollow flexible cylinder that has a sinusoidal wave traveling down its wall. The coupled differential equations for both the fluid and the particle phases have been solved by using two methods and the expressions for the velocity distribution of fluid and particle phase, flow rate, pressure drop, friction forces at the inner and outer cylinders have been derived. The results obtained are discussed in brief. The significance of the particle concentration and the eccentricity parameter as well as the nature of the basic flow has been well explained.
DISCRETE CIRCULAR BETA ENSEMBLES
Authors: LUBINSKY D. S.
Published: May 2013

Let μ be a measure with support on the unit circle and n ≥ 1, β > 0. The associated circular β ensemble involves a probability distribution of the form [Formula: see text] where C is a normalization constant, and [Formula: see text] We explicitly evaluate the m-point correlation functions when μ is replaced by a discrete measure on the unit circle, generated by paraorthogonal orthogonal polynomials associated with μ, and use this to investigate universality limits for sequences of such measures. We also consider ratios of products of random characteristic polynomials.
Developments in Visual Servoing for Mobile Manipulation
Authors: Lang Haoxiang , Khan Muhammad Tahir , Tan Kok-Kiong , de Silva Clarence W.
Published: May 2013

A new trend in mobile robotics is to integrate visual information in feedback control for facilitating autonomous grasping and manipulation. The result is a visual servo system, which is quite beneficial in autonomous mobile manipulation. In view of mobility, it has wider application than the traditional visual servoing in manipulators with fixed base. In this paper, the state of art of vision-guided robotic applications is presented along with the associated hardware. Next, two classical approaches of visual servoing: image-based visual servoing (IBVS) and position-based visual servoing (PBVS) are reviewed; and their advantages and drawbacks in applying to a mobile manipulation system are discussed. A general concept of modeling a visual servo system is demonstrated. Some challenges in developing visual servo systems are discussed. Finally, a practical application of mobile manipulation system which is developed for applications of search and rescue and homecare robotics is introduced.
Characteristic atmosphere–ocean–solid earth interactions in the Antarctic coastal and marine environment inferred from seismic and infrasound recording at Syowa Station, East Antarctica
Authors: Kanao Masaki , Maggi Alessia , Ishihara Yoshiaki , Stutzmann Eleonore , Yamamoto Masa-Yuki , Toyokuni Genti
Published: May 2013

Several characteristic waves detected by seismographs in Antarctic stations have been recognized as originating from the physical interaction between the solid earth and the atmosphere–ocean–cryosphere system surrounding the Antarctic and may be used as a proxy for characterizing ocean wave climate. A Chaparral-type infrasound sensor was installed at Syowa Station (SYO; 39.6E, 69.0S), East Antarctica, in April 2008 during the International Polar Year (IPY2007–2008). Matching data are also available for this time period from the existing broadband seismic recorder located close by. Continuous infrasound data for 2008–2009 include background signals (microbaroms) with a broad peak in the wave period between the values of 4 and 10 s. Signals with the same period are recorded by the broadband seismograph at SYO (microseisms). This period band is identified as double-frequency microseisms/baroms (DFM). The DFM have relatively lower amplitudes during winter. We suggest that this is due to the sea-ice extent around the coast causing a decreased ocean loading effect. In contrast, the single frequency microseisms/baroms with a peak in period between 12 and 30 s are observed under storm conditions, particularly in winter. On the infrasound data, stationary signals are identified with harmonic overtones at a few Hertz to lowermost human audible band, which we suggest is due to local effects such as sea-ice cracking and vibration. Microseism measurements are a useful proxy for characterizing ocean wave climate, complementing other oceanographic and geophysical data. At SYO, continuous monitoring by both broadband seismograph and infrasound contributes to the Federation of Digital Seismographic Networks, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty in the high southern latitudes and the Pan-Antarctic Observations System under the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research.
Windows on Antarctic soil–landscape relationships: comparison across selected regions of Antarctica
Authors: Balks Megan R. , López-Martínez Jerónimo , Goryachkin Sergey V. , Mergelov Nikita S. , Schaefer Carlos E. G. R. , Simas Felipe N. B. , Almond Peter C. , Claridge Graeme G. C. , Mcleod Malcolm , Scarrow Joshua
Published: May 2013

This paper brings together topographic cross-section ‘windows’ from across Antarctica to illustrate soil–landscapes from the margins of the polar plateau in the Transantarctic Mountains and McMurdo Dry Valleys, through East Antarctic coastal areas, to the northern Antarctic Peninsula Region. Soils identified range from Gelisols in the Ross Sea Region, through Gelisols and Entisols in coastal East Antarctica, to a mixture of Gelisols, Entisols, Spodosols and Inceptisols in the northern Antarctic Peninsula Region where permafrost is not ubiquitous. The relative impacts of the soil-forming factors are considered. At a continental scale climate is the main driver of the differences observed between soils in different areas. At local scales strong soil–topographic relationships are observed. Organisms, time and parent material are dominant influences on soil properties only in relatively localized situations. Organisms dominate in areas of organic matter or guano accumulation and time is a dominant influence on exceptionally old upland surfaces in the McMurdo Dry Valleys. The US Department of Agriculture’s Soil Taxonomy gives a useful overall appraisal of Antarctic soils; however, for detailed work, there is a need to introduce some new categories at subgroup level to better capture the range of soils described.
Geological and palynological characterization of a river beach in Portugal for forensic purposes
Authors: Carvalho Áurea , Ribeiro Helena , Guedes Alexandra , Abreu Ilda , Noronha Fernando
Published: May 2013

Currently, it is important to use a combination of independent analytical techniques in order to reliably characterize between different samples of geological trace evidence in criminal investigations. Areínho beach, in the town of Vila Nova de Gaia (northern Portugal), is located on the southern bank of the Douro River. Although isolated, it is a very busy area during the summer and other seasons due to its popular water sports. The geology of the area is complex, with numerous different outcrops. In addition, there is a considerable variety of vegetation in the region, and many materials are transported by the Douro River and deposited in the area.

In order to characterize this beach for forensic purposes (both criminal and environmental), sediment samples were collected and analysed using a combination of geological techniques, namely colour, particle size distribution and mineralogy. These geological techniques were combined with a palynological assessment of the sediment samples. In addition, the surrounding vegetation was characterized and seasonal vegetation surveys were carried out.

In this study, the results obtained revealed homogeneous data throughout the profile in all the properties analysed. This research demonstrated that the combination of different, independent techniques used to characterize sediments from this river beach has the potential to contribute substantially to future forensic investigations.
Deep learning comes of age
Authors: Anthes Gary
Published: May 2013

Advances on multiple fronts are bringing big improvements to the way computers learn, increasing the accuracy of speech and vision systems.
Breast Image Analysis for Risk Assessment, Detection, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Cancer
Authors: Giger Maryellen L. , Karssemeijer Nico , Schnabel Julia A.
Published: May 2013

The role of breast image analysis in radiologists' interpretation tasks in cancer risk assessment, detection, diagnosis, and treatment continues to expand. Breast image analysis methods include segmentation, feature extraction techniques, classifier design, biomechanical modeling, image registration, motion correction, and rigorous methods of evaluation. We present a review of the current status of these task-based image analysis methods, which are being developed for the various image acquisition modalities of mammography, tomosynthesis, computed tomography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging. Depending on the task, image-based biomarkers from such quantitative image analysis may include morphological, textural, and kinetic characteristics and may depend on accurate modeling and registration of the breast images. We conclude with a discussion of future directions.
Acyl-Homoserine Lactone Quorum Sensing: From Evolution to Application
Authors: Schuster Martin , Joseph Sexton D. , Diggle Stephen P. , Peter Greenberg E.
Published: May 2013

Quorum sensing (QS) is a widespread process in bacteria that employs autoinducing chemical signals to coordinate diverse, often cooperative activities such as bioluminescence, biofilm formation, and exoenzyme secretion. Signaling via acyl-homoserine lactones is the paradigm for QS in Proteobacteria and is particularly well understood in the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Despite thirty years of mechanistic research, empirical studies have only recently addressed the benefits of QS and provided support for the traditional assumptions regarding its social nature and its role in optimizing cell-density-dependent group behaviors. QS-controlled public-goods production has served to investigate principles that explain the evolution and stability of cooperation, including kin selection, pleiotropic constraints, and metabolic prudence. With respect to medical application, appreciating social dynamics is pertinent to understanding the efficacy of QS-inhibiting drugs and the evolution of resistance. Future work will provide additional insight into the foundational assumptions of QS and relate laboratory discoveries to natural ecosystems.
Virus-Based Transient Expression Vectors for Woody Crops: A New Frontier for Vector Design and Use
Authors: Dawson William O. , Folimonova Svetlana Y.
Published: May 2013

Virus-based expression vectors are commonplace tools for the production of proteins or the induction of RNA silencing in herbaceous plants. This review considers a completely different set of uses for viral vectors in perennial fruit and nut crops, which can be productive for periods of up to 100 years. Viral vectors could be used in the field to modify existing plants. Furthermore, with continually emerging pathogens and pests, viral vectors could express genes to protect the plants or even to treat plants after they become infected. As technologies develop during the life span of these crops, viral vectors can be used for adding new genes as an alternative to pushing up the crop and replanting with transgenic plants. Another value of virus-based vectors is that they add nothing permanently to the environment. This requires that effective and stable viral vectors be developed for specific crops from endemic viruses. Studies using viruses from perennial hosts suggest that these objectives could be accomplished.
The Use and Role of Predictive Systems in Disease Management
Authors: Gent David H. , Mahaffee Walter F. , McRoberts Neil , Pfender William F.
Published: May 2013

Disease predictive systems are intended to be management aids. With a few exceptions, these systems typically do not have direct sustained use by growers. Rather, their impact is mostly pedagogic and indirect, improving recommendations from farm advisers and shaping management concepts. The degree to which a system is consulted depends on the amount of perceived new, actionable information that is consistent with the objectives of the user. Often this involves avoiding risks associated with costly disease outbreaks. Adoption is sensitive to the correspondence between the information a system delivers and the information needed to manage a particular pathosystem at an acceptable financial risk; details of the approach used to predict disease risk are less important. The continuing challenge for researchers is to construct tools relevant to farmers and their advisers that improve upon their current management skill. This goal requires an appreciation of growers' decision calculus in managing disease problems and, more broadly, their overall farm enterprise management.
Heterogeneity in Environmental Demand
Authors: Phaneuf Daniel J.
Published: May 2013

Heterogeneity is a defining characteristic of environmental demand studies that use household-level data. People make different choices due to observed and unobserved differences in preferences and constraints, choice elements are quality-differentiated commodities that can be consumed in different ways, and observed characteristics of people are often import for policy. In this review I examine how environmental economists have responded to the challenges and opportunities this heterogeneity implies. I categorize the types of heterogeneity that can be present, provide examples of each, and propose criteria to use in deciding when explicit attention should be paid to the different types. I then show how a variety of economic and econometric models have been used to accommodate the various dimensions of observed and unobserved heterogeneity, and I discuss opportunities for further research on the topic.
From Social Structure to Gene Regulation, and Back: A Critical Introduction to Environmental Epigenetics for Sociology
Authors: Landecker Hannah , Panofsky Aaron
Published: May 2013

Epigenetics is a burgeoning area of biomedical research into the mechanisms by which genes are regulated—how the activity of producing proteins is controlled. Although molecular epigenetic research is highly biochemical, it is of interest to sociologists because some epigenetic changes are environmentally mediated and can persist across the life span or into further generations. Environmental epigenetic research tracks mechanisms by which social forces—from pollution to nutrition to mothering to traumatic experience—become molecularly embodied, affect gene expression, and induce durable changes in behavior and health. We begin with an introduction to the science of environmental epigenetics focused on articulating the logic of experimentation and explanation in this field. Turning to sociologists' key interests, we review the growing literature on epigenetics of socioeconomic status. Finally, we consider how epigenetics offers opportunities and challenges for sociological research on both empirical and theoretical grounds.
Economic Institutions and the State: Insights from Economic History
Authors: Hillmann Henning
Published: May 2013

What mechanisms account for the long-run differences in economic development across historical settings? Current scholarship has renewed the argument that institutions are essential for promoting market transactions, industrialization, trade, and economic growth. In particular, recent work in economic history offers valuable empirical and theoretical insights into the development of market-supporting institutions, their long-term consequences, and their relationship to state-building. The purpose of this review is to bring contributions in economic history to the attention of sociologists interested in the evolution of economic institutions. Drawing on salient historical cases, the article contrasts formal market-supporting institutions that are provided by the state with settings where such public provision fails and private-order institutions based on reputation effects within informal social networks offer an alternative. Moving beyond mere existence proofs that institutions matter, the review then discusses recent advances in understanding the precise mechanisms responsible for the persistent effects of institutions on economic development.
Conductivity of New Electrolyte Material Pr1-xM1+xInO4(M=Ba,Sr) with Related Perovskite Structure for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Li Xinyu , Shimada Hiroyuki , Ihara Manabu
Published: May 2013

Successful application of related perovskite structure with K2NiF4-type materials, Pr1-xM1+xInO4 (M=Sr, Ba), as electrolyte for SOFCs is reported here for the first time. The highest open current voltage was 0.70 V for PrSrInO4 at 500°C and 0.77 V for Pr0.9Ba1.1InO4 at 600°C. Measured electromotive force using hydrogen and oxygen concentration cells reveal that Pr1-xSr1+xInO4 materials have proton conductivity, whereas Pr1-xBa1+xInO4 materials have both proton and oxide-ionic conductivity. Due to the high proton conductivity at lower temperature, the highest maximum power density in the Pr1-xSr1+xInO4 and Pr1-xBa1+xInO4 materials occurred at 500°C and 700°C, respectively. Both materials showed a decrease in OCV with increasing temperature, indicating that the optimal operating temperature was between 500°C to 700°C. Our results confirm that both materials are potential candidates as electrolyte materials for proton-conducting solid oxide fuel cells.
Performance of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells on H2, NH3 and Hydrocarbon Fuels
Authors: Han Min-Fang , Xiong Jie , Zhu Tenglong , Singhal Subhash C.
Published: May 2013

The different gases such as H2, CH4, C3H8, NH3 or simulated underground coal gasification (UCG) gas can be used as fuel in SOFC. Basis on the thermochemical calculations, the performances of ceria-based electrolyte anode-supported cells operated on the five fuels were measured. As a result, for C3H8 fuel, the measured OCV decreased rapidly at lower temperatures, indicating sluggish reaction kinetics at the anode. However, the synergy between slow anode reaction kinetics and fast migration of oxide ions to the anode suppresses carbon deposition at low operating temperatures, which leads to better cell durability. Overall, the UCG gas fed cell exhibited much increased stability than any other hydrocarbons, whcih demonstrates that UCG gas is a promising fuel for utilization in SOFCs.
Power Generation of Rechargeable Direct Carbon Fuel Cells with Batch-Type Charging System
Authors: Tanaka Hiroki , Yabuki Akinori , Li Xinyu , Ihara Manabu
Published: May 2013

Rechargeable Direct Carbon Fuel Cells (RDCFCs) use deposited pyrolytic carbon as fuel. With a batch-type charging system, the change in the amount of deposited carbon as a function of pyrolysis time was monitored in order to estimate the optimal pyrolysis time and to improve the propane-based fuel utilization. When the pyrolysis time was 5 min, the propane-based fuel utilization efficiency of RDCFCs was improved from 3% to 35% at a power density between 60–80 mW/cm2 compared to previous RDCFCs. The improvement was due to a high conversion rate to carbon (73%) from propane to solid carbon caused by longer pyrolysis time. The effects of hydrogen in RDCFC power generation were also investigated because in the pyrolysis of hydrocarbon, hydrogen is also produced. Results indicate that existence of hydrogen seems to promote the utilization of solid carbon.
Physical Properties Elucidation of Filaments in Conducting-Bridge Random Access Memory Consisting of Metal-Oxide
Authors: Haswgawa Sho , Kinoshita Kentaro , Tsuruta Shigeyuki , Kishida Satoru
Published: May 2013

Recently, it was reported that resistive switching mechanism of Cu/metal-oxide/Pt conducting-bridge random access memories is closely related to residual water in the metal-oxide layer based on the current-voltage (I-V) measurements as functions of ambient pressure and temperature. However, which constituent of atmosphere (H2O, N2, O2, etc) affects resistive switching should be investigated rigorously. In this paper, we performed measurement of the atmosphere dependence of I-V characteristics of Cu-probe/HfO2/Pt structures composed by contacting the surface of the HfO2 film on the Pt-electrode with the Cu-probe. Taking advantage of Cu-probe/HfO2/Pt structures which ensure high permeability to both gasses and liquids, I-V characteristics were measured in H2O, N2, O2, air, and vacuum. As a result, it was clarified that H2O enhances a forming and set processes, whereas reset occurs basing on the common mechanism independent of atmosphere.
Preparation and Photoluminescence Property of Praseodymium Doped Calcium Titanate Nanocrystals
Authors: MInami Kimitaka , Hakuta Yukiya , Ohara Motohiro , Aoki Mitusko , Sue Kiwamu , Takashima Hiroshi
Published: May 2013

We report a continuous production of Perovskite-type metal oxide nano-phosphor CaTiO3:Pr by hydrothermal synthesis using a flow type reaction system. Aqueous mixing solution of Ca(NO3)2, TiO2 sols, and Pr(NO3)3 were used as stating materials. Reaction temperatures and pressure were set to 200 to 400 °C and 30 MPa, respectively. Characteristics were performed by powder X-ray diffractometry, transmission electron microscopy and spectrophotometer. We investigated the effects of the reaction temperature on crystal structure, particle size and photoluminescence properties. From the results, the particle obtained at 400°C was single crystal with around 20 nm in a diameter and had Perovskite structure. The particles shows a typical red emission peak at around 612 nm, which is assigned to the transition 1D2 →3H4 of Pr3+. The intensity of the red luminescence increased with reaction temperature and then it showed the maximum at 400°C of supercritical water condition.
Polyaniline-MnO2 Nanocomposite Supercapacitor Electrodes Prepared by Galvanic Pulse Polymerization
Authors: Pandey G.P. , Rastogi A. C.
Published: May 2013

Polyaniline-MnO2 nanocomposite films are prepared by single step pulse electrochemical co-deposition technique. The morphology, composition and bonding structure of the composite material were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). XPS studies show that hydrated manganese oxide in the nanocomposite exists in the mixed Mn(II) to Mn(IV) oxidation states. The polyaniline and polyaniline-MnO2 composite were characterized in 0.1 M Na2SO4 for electrochemical supercapacitor electrodes. The nanocomposite shows maximum specific capacitance of 148 F g-1 at a charge-discharge current density of 1 mA cm-2. Improved cycling stability of the nanocomposite material has been demonstrated.
Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Materials for Supercapacitors
Authors: Ruiz V. , Suárez-Guevara J. , Gomez-Romero P.
Published: May 2013

The design and development of hybrid organic- inorganic materials with improved electrochemical performance to be used in energy storage applications (e.g. supercapacitors) has been investigated. The systematic study carried out shows carbon–based materials where the anchoring of inorganic species takes place (i.e. polyoxometalates, POM) in search of synergic properties. In this paper, a Kegging-type polyoxometalate, the phosphomolybdic acid H3PMo12O40 (PMo12), was anchored to an activated carbon. The specific capacitance values obtained from the cyclic voltammogram in a 3-electrode configuration for the pristine activated carbon and the related hybrid material are 185 Fg-1 and 246 Fg-1 respectively (at 10 mVs-1).
Improved Sintering Property of Y-Doped BaZrO3 by Mn Addition
Authors: Kim Dongyoung , Miyoshi Shogo , Tsuchiya Takashi , Yamaguchi Shu
Published: May 2013

The effect of Manganese oxide, MnO
x
, as a sintering aid, on the sintering behavior of BaZrO3-based systems has been systematically studied with two different groups of Mn-added systems (BaZr1.00Mn
x
O3 and BaZr0.95Y0.05Mn
x
O3-δ) and Mn-doped systems (BaZr1-x
Mn
x
O3 and BaZr0.95-x
Y0.05Mn
x
O3-δ). The sinterability of all systems is markedly improved with the use of Mn. The densification behavior has been analyzed by X-ray diffraction, Raman Spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy after the sintering. The present results suggest that the sinterability is improved by the presence of MnO
x
and BaMnO3 as a liquid phase source. The addition of MnO
x
reduces the electrical conductivity of BaZr0.95Y0.05O3-δ significantly by the cation exchange reaction between Y3+ and Mn4+. The control of cation exchange reaction is of crucial importance in the improvement of both the sinterability, and the electrical conductivity of BaZrO3-based systems by the help of sintering aids.
Oxygen Transport in Perovskite Type Oxide La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3-δ
Authors: Kudo Honami , Yashiro Keiji , Hashimoto Shin-ichi , Amezawa Koji , Kawada Tatsuya , Mizusaki Junichiro
Published: May 2013

Oxygen isotope diffusion coefficient, D
*, of La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3-δ (LSCF6428) was measured as a function of p(O2) and temperature. Vacancy diffusion coefficient, D
V, was calculated from D
* and reported values of oxygen nonstoichiometry, δ. There was little dependence of D
V on δ or p(O2) while D
V by conductivity relaxation method was reported to drastically decrease with decreasing p(O2) below 10-2 bar. The absolute values of D
V in this study were about an order of magnitude larger than those by conductivity relaxation method.