bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precedent
Authors: Lamond Grant
Published: July 2007

Precedent is a central feature of legal practice, requiring courts to follow decisions reached in earlier cases, thereby transforming the decisions in individual cases into a source of law. This article examines two major questions associated with precedent: (a) how to characterise the way that precedent operates as a source of law; and (b) how to justify the requirement that courts follow earlier decisions regardless of the merits of those decisions. Precedents are often thought to create general legal rules, but it is controversial whether this is the best way to understand their role in legal reasoning. Equally, it is unclear that the most common justifications for precedent unequivocally vindicate the practice.
Trust and Health Care
Authors: Calnan Michael , Rowe Rosemary
Published: July 2007

Trust is believed to be particularly salient to the provision of health care, and since the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK, trust has played an important role in the relationships between its three key actors: the state, healthcare practitioners, and patients and the public. Service users trusted the judgement, knowledge and expertise of health professionals to provide a competent service that met their needs, and they trusted the state to ensure equity in the allocation of public goods and services. These implicit or taken‐for‐granted trust relationships have, it is claimed, been challenged as a result of the introduction of changes in the organisation and funding for the health service, in the regulation and performance assessment of health professionals, and in public attitudes to health care and scientific medicine. This paper considers the influences of social changes and recent policy and professional initiatives in health care on the structure of trust relations in health care in the UK. It presents a theoretical framework for examining trust relations using the NHS as a case study and concludes with an agenda for future research.
The Crystallization Age of Eucrite Zircon
Authors: Srinivasan G. , Whitehouse M. J. , Weber I. , Yamaguchi A.
Published: July 2007

Eucrites are a group of meteorites that represent the first planetary igneous activity following metal-silicate differentiation on an early planetesimal, similar to Asteroid 4 Vesta, and, thus, help date geophysical processes occurring on such bodies in the early solar system. Using the short-lived radionuclide
182
Hf as a relative chronometer, we demonstrate that eucrite zircon crystallized quickly within 6.8 million years of metal-silicate differentiation. This implies that mantle differentiation on the eucrite parent body occurred during a period when internal heat from the decay of
26
Al and
60
Fe was still available. Later metamorphism of eucrites took place at least 8.9 million years after the zircons crystallized and was likely caused by heating from impacts, or by burial under hot material excavated by impacts, rather than from lava flows. Thus, the timing of eucrite formation and of mantle differentiation is constrained.
Accuracy of Six Antimicrobial Susceptibility Methods for Testing Linezolid against Staphylococci and Enterococci
Authors: Tenover Fred C. , Williams Portia P. , Stocker Sheila , Thompson Angela , Clark Leigh Ann , Limbago Brandi , Carey Roberta B. , Poppe Susan M. , Shinabarger Dean , McGowan John E.
Published: July 2007

A challenge panel of enterococci (
n
= 50) and staphylococci (
n
= 50), including 17 and 15 isolates that were nonsusceptible to linezolid, respectively, were tested with the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute broth microdilution and disk diffusion reference methods. In addition, all 100 isolates were tested in parallel by Etest (AB Biodisk, Solna, Sweden), MicroScan WalkAway (Dade, West Sacramento, CA), BD Phoenix (BD Diagnostic Systems, Sparks, MD), VITEK (bioMérieux, Durham, NC), and VITEK 2 (bioMérieux) by using the manufacturers’ protocols. Compared to the results of the broth microdilution method for detecting linezolid-nonsusceptible staphylococci and enterococci, MicroScan results showed the highest category agreement (96.0%). The overall categorical agreement levels for VITEK 2, Etest, Phoenix, disk diffusion, and VITEK were 93.0%, 90.0%, 89.6%, 88.0%, and 85.9%, respectively. The essential agreement levels (results within ±1 doubling dilution of the MIC determined by the reference method) for MicroScan, Phoenix, VITEK 2, Etest, and VITEK were 99.0%, 95.8%, 92.0%, 92.0%, and 85.9%, respectively. The very major error rates for staphylococci were the highest for VITEK (35.7%), Etest (40.0%), and disk diffusion (53.3%), although the total number of resistant isolates tested was small. The very major error rate for enterococci with VITEK was 20.0%. Three systems (MicroScan, VITEK, and VITEK 2) provided no interpretations of nonsusceptible results for staphylococci. These data, from a challenge panel of isolates, illustrate that the recent emergence of linezolid-nonsusceptible staphylococci and enterococci is providing a challenge for many susceptibility testing systems.
Mutational Analysis of the C-Terminal Gag Cleavage Sites in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1
Authors: Coren Lori V. , Thomas James A. , Chertova Elena , Sowder Raymond C. , Gagliardi Tracy D. , Gorelick Robert J. , Ott David E.
Published: July 2007

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) Gag is expressed as a polyprotein that is cleaved into six proteins by the viral protease in a maturation process that begins during assembly and budding. While processing of the N terminus of Gag is strictly required for virion maturation and infectivity, the necessity for the C-terminal cleavages of Gag is less well defined. To examine the importance of this process, we introduced a series of mutations into the C terminus of Gag that interrupted the cleavage sites that normally produce in the nucleocapsid (NC), spacer 2 (SP2), or p6
Gag
proteins. Protein analysis showed that all of the mutant constructs produced virions efficiently upon transfection of cells and appropriately processed Gag polyprotein at the nonmutated sites. Mutants that produced a p9
NC/SP2
protein exhibited only minor effects on HIV-1 infectivity and replication. In contrast, mutants that produced only the p8
SP2/p6
or p15
NC/SP2/p6
protein had severe defects in infectivity and replication. To identify the key defective step, we quantified reverse transcription and integration products isolated from infected cells by PCR. All mutants tested produced levels of reverse transcription products either similar to or only somewhat lower than that of wild type. In contrast, mutants that failed to cleave the SP2-p6
Gag
site produced drastically less provirus than the wild type. Together, our results show that processing of the SP2-p6
Gag
and not the NC-SP2 cleavage site is important for efficient viral DNA integration during infection in vitro. In turn, this finding suggests an important role for the p9
NC/SP2
species in some aspect of integration.
High-level medium-chain triglyceride feeding and energy expenditure in normal-weight women
Authors: Alexandrou Elena , Herzberg Gene R. , White Matthew D.
Published: July 2007

The objective of this study was to assess how short-term feeding of high levels of dietary medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) affect energy expenditure and postprandial substrate oxidation rates in normal-weight, premenopausal women. Eight healthy women were fed both a MCT-rich and an isocaloric long-chain triglyceride (LCT)-rich diet for two 1-week periods separated by a minimum of 21 days. The energy intake in each diet was 45% carbohydrates, 40% fat, and 15% protein. The 2 diets had either 60.81% or 1.11% of total fat energy from MCT with the remaining fat energy intake from LCT. On days 1 and 7 of each diet, resting metabolic rate and postprandial energy expenditure (EE) were measured by indirect calorimetry with a ventilated hood. Results indicated on days 1 and 7, there were no significant differences between diets for resting metabolic rate or mean postprandial EE. On both days 1 and 7, fat oxidation for the MCT-rich diet was significantly greater (0.0001 ≤ p ≤ 0.04) than that for the LCT-rich diet at different time points across the 5.5 h postprandial period. In conclusion, for premenopausal, normal-weight women consuming a diet with 25% of the energy content from MCT, there were no changes in resting metabolic rate, transient increases in postprandial energy expenditure, and significant increases in postprandial fat oxidation.
THERMAL LATTICE BOLTZMANN IN TWO DIMENSIONS
Authors: SIEBERT DIOGO NARDELLI , HEGELE LUIZ ADOLFO , SURMAS RODRIGO , DOS SANTOS LUÍS ORLANDO EMERICH , PHILIPPI PAULO CESAR
Published: July 2007

The velocity discretization is a critical step in deriving the lattice Boltzmann (LBE) from the Boltzmann equation. The velocity discretization problem was considered in a recent paper (Philippi et al., From the continuous to the lattice Boltzmann equation: the discretization problem and thermal models, Physical Review E 73: 56702, 2006) following a new approach and giving the minimal discrete velocity sets in accordance with the order of approximation that is required for the LBE with respect to the Boltzmann equation. As a consequence, two-dimensional lattices and their respective equilibrium distributions were derived and discussed, considering the order of approximation that was required for the LBE. In the present work, a Chapman-Enskog (CE) analysis is performed for deriving the macroscopic transport equations for the mass, momentum and energy for these lattices. The problem of describing the transfer of energy in fluids is discussed in relation with the order of approximation of the LBE model. Simulation of temperature, pressure and velocity steps are also presented to validate the CE analysis.
EXPLORING DNA TRANSLOCATION THROUGH A NANOPORE VIA A MULTISCALE LATTICE-BOLTZMANN MOLECULAR-DYNAMICS METHODOLOGY
Authors: MELCHIONNA SIMONE , FYTA MARIA G. , KAXIRAS EFTHIMIOS , SUCCI SAURO
Published: July 2007

A multiscale approach is used to simulate the translocation of DNA through a nanopore. Within this scheme, the interactions of the molecule with the surrounding fluid (solvent) are explicitly taken into account. By generating polymers of various initial configurations and lengths we map the probability distibutions of the passage times of the DNA through the nanopore. A scaling law behavior for the most probable of these times with respect to length is derived, and shown to exhibit an exponent that is in a good agreement with the experimental findings. The essential features of the DNA dynamics as it passes through the pore are explored.
EFFECT OF GAS CONTENT ON THE OSCILLATION OF A LASER-INDUCED CAVITATION BUBBLE
Authors: CHEN X. , XU R. Q. , YANG B. , LU J. , NI X. W.
Published: July 2007

The oscillation of a cavitation bubble and the effect of gas content inside a cavity on the bubble motion are investigated by theory and experiment. Based on the cavitation model, the numerical study yields the gas content dependence of the amplitude and duration of the bubble oscillation in liquids. In experiment, the temporal oscillation of a single laser-induced cavitation bubble is obtained by means of a sensitive fiber-optic sensor based on optical beam deflection. The characteristic bubble parameters are determined, including the maximum (minimum) radii, oscillation duration and bubble energy, which all decrease with the oscillation. Besides, combining the cavitation theory with experimental data, the variation of gas content within the bubble during each oscillation is estimated, which increases with the oscillation cycle. Our results reveal the competitive interplay of the bubble energy and gas content during the bubble motion and the bubble energy in effect outweighs the latter.
STATISTICAL PROPERTIES OF URBAN GROUND BUS-TRANSPORT NETWORKS FROM SELF-AVOIDING RANDOM WALKS
Authors: CHEN YONG-ZHOU , LI NAN
Published: July 2007

We conjecture that the evolution process with self-avoiding random walks is the origin for the properties of urban ground bus-transport networks (BTN). In order to verify our conjecture, a toy model, which simulates the growth of urban bus-transport systems, is proposed after empirical investigation on the BTNs of four major cities in China. In current empirical and simulation research, our method combining weight and geographical topology of the BTN together allows us to study the coupling relations among the BTN's weighted quantities and underlying topological structure. Finally, the simulating results reveal that the model can reproduce most phenomena observed in real-life urban ground BTNs.
PREDICTION OF RESONANCE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE FOREARM BONES USING FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS
Authors: Kim Kyu-Jung , Hwang Il-Kyu
Published: July 2007

Modal analysis is often used as a diagnostic tool for osteoporosis, fracture healing, and dental treatment monitoring by measuring the resonance characteristics of an anatomical structure. The objective of this study was to conduct parametric finite element modal analysis of the forearm bones using geometric models reconstructed from the Visible Human Project datasets in order to gain insights into the structural integrity of the forearm complex and their implications on bone health. The reported fundamental resonant frequency of the ulna was matched to calibrate the material properties of each anatomical component of the ulna, and subsequently sensitivities of each material parameter were assessed. Resonance characteristics of the radius for four vibration modes were then estimated using the calibrated material data from the calibration simulation. The ulna had the fundamental mode in mediolateral bending at 400 Hz, while the radius in anterior–posterior bending at 411 Hz. The axial and torsional modes always had higher fundamental resonant frequencies over 1700 Hz for both bones. It was suggested that the parametric finite element modal analysis in conjunction with in vivo modal testing may be applicable for determining the physical properties of a long bone for quantitative assessment of bone health.
IMAGE RESTORATION AND DETAIL PRESERVATION BY BAYESIAN ESTIMATION
Authors: ZHOU HUIYU , LIU TANGWEI , LIN FAQUAN , PANG YUSHENG , WU JI
Published: July 2007

In this paper, we present a novel noise suppression and detail preservation algorithm. The test image is firstly pre-processed through a multiresolution analysis employing the discrete wavelet transform. Then, we apply a fast and robust total variation technique, incorporating a statistical representation in the style of maximum likelihood estimation. Finally, we compare this proposed approach to current state-of-the-art denoising methods using synthetic and real images. The results demonstrate encouraging performance of our algorithm.
Recent Trends on the ALD Technology for ULSI Device Fabrication
Authors: Lee Ki Hoon , Lee Sang Jin , Kim Soo Hyun , Bae Joon Sung , Cho Byoung Cheol , Lee Jung Wook , Park Sang Joon , Lee Sang Kyu , Seo Tea Wook
Published: July 2007

Since Al2O3 film by Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) has successfully been introduced as a capacitor dielectric for DRAM, now it is widely used up to the device of 100nm design rule. At the design rule of 100nm or below, various thin films, such as high k dielectrics for capacitor or gate oxide, metal electrodes for the dielectrics, and diffusion barrier for contact or interconnection are highly required to be developed using ALD technique to overcome various challenges caused by rapid device shrinkage. Thus, ALD technique is now essential for ULSI device fabrication due to its unique features such as excellent step coverage, high quality film structure having low defect density, lower deposition temperature, and precision composition control of multi- component oxide. In this paper, several important technical points of ALD process for ULSI applications were described and discussed with several recent experimental data
ALD Technology - Present and Future Challenges
Authors: Haukka Suvi
Published: July 2007

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is one of the established techniques among the other chemical and physical deposition techniques of today. There is still, however, a number of challenges for ALD to meet regarding both manufacturing and growth chemistry. The main manufacturing obstacle is the throughput which inherently is low for ALD. In the chemistry side the precursor development plays a very important role together with the understanding of which ALD technique, thermal or plasma enhanced (PE), or even combined (PE)ALD/CVD to use for which application. In the future there will be an increasing need for the development of new ALD materials and for the detailed understanding of the growth of thin films and nanostructures not only on inorganic but also on organic surfaces.
Silicon Nitride Molecular Layer Deposition Process Development using Dichlorosilane and Ammonia
Authors: O'Meara David L. , Matsushita Kaoru , Hasebe Kazuhide , Dip Anthony , Mo Renee , Higgins Paul , Maku Shingo , Chudzik Michael , Gribelyuk Michael , Tai Leo
Published: July 2007

Alternate processing of Dichlorosilane (DCS) and Ammonia (NH3) were used in a mini-batch furnace to deposit thin layers of silicon nitride (SiN). Applications for conformal, thin SiN films in advanced Semiconductor device fabrication are identified in literature and ITRS. Advances in furnace capabilities that enable SiN with Molecular Layer Deposition (MLD) properties are described. The MLD characteristics of SiN deposition as temperatures reduce below 520C are demonstrated through experimental results and theoretically supported by interpretation of models of Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) DCS:NH3 SiN.
Radical-Assisted Silcore(R)CVD of Si3N4 and SiO2 Nanolaminates
Authors: Fischer Pamela R. , Oosterlaken Ed , Bozon Bart , Zagwijn Peter M.
Published: July 2007

The low temperature generation of Si3N4 and SiO2 films, or nanolaminates of these films, has been developed for LPCVD vertical furnaces. These films use silcore® chemistry to deposit amorphous silicon films that are subsequently converted to silicon nitride or silicon oxide films via exposure to in-situ radicals. The gas composition during the plasma conversion step is critical for determining the final film properties.
Optimization of Plasma Enhanced Atomic Layer Deposition Processes for Oxides, Nitrides and Metals in the Oxford Instruments FlexAL Reactor
Authors: Hodson Chris , Singh Nick , Heil Stephan , van Hemmen Hans , Kessels Erwin
Published: July 2007

Hafnium oxide films deposited on silicon wafers from TEMAH and O2 plasma showed saturation at growth rate per cycle of 1.1Aå, which was independent of the plasma conditions. The same film deposited thermally using H2O as the oxidant saturated at 0.8Aå/cycle. By varying the plasma exposure time the compositional ratio of [O]/[Hf], as calculated from RBS measurements, changed from 2.0 to 2.13. The carbon content in plasma HfO2 films was < 2% compared to 8% in thermal HfO2 films. Titanium nitride films deposited on silicon wafers from TiCl4 and N2 / H2 plasma showed saturation at 0.33Aå/cycle, which was independent of plasma conditions and a resistivity of <170µΩ cm at 350{degree sign}C deposition temperature. The stoichiometry of the films can be changed from being slightly nitrogen rich to titanium rich by varying the N:H ratios in the plasma and limiting the amount of nitrogen available for the reaction. The chlorine impurity in TiN varied according to plasma exposure time (2.6% to 1.2%) and N2:H2 gas ratio in the plasma, with a corresponding change in resistivity (200µΩ - 150µΩ).
Electrical Properties and Thermal Stabilities of HfZrOx by Atomic Layer Deposition Technique for ULSI Application
Authors: Jung You Min , Lee Sang Jin , Lee Ki Hoon , Lee Sang Kyu , Seo Tea Wook
Published: July 2007

HfZrOx films were grown by atomic layer deposition(ALD) at 280{degree sign}C, by co-injection of TDEAH and TDEAZ, and the lamination of HfOx and ZrOx, respectively. The film was exposed under O2, H2 and NH3 plasma, generated by 350 kHz AC generator. The film by co-injection showed Zr content higher than Hf with same flow rate of the precursors, although, in the laminated film, the composition of Hf and Zr was the same. The film grown by co-injection crystallizes less after annealing by RTA, which seems to be due to a higher Zr content. The leakage current of the film grown by co-injection was much higher than that of laminated film. However, after plasma treatments, it became strongly improved regardless of gases. Oxygen plasma treatment was most effective way to improve leakage current and it suggest that removing oxygen vacancy is important for HfZrOx as a capacitor dielectric.
Barrier Deposition for Advanced Interconnects
Authors: Schaekers Marc , Tőkei Zs. , Li Y.-L. , Carbonel L.
Published: July 2007

The impact of an ALD versus a PVD TaN barrier was investigated. The surface sensitivity of the ALD barrier and its integrity on different surfaces was studied. Various post ALD treatments to improve the adhesion of copper were compared. It is shown that an optimization of post treatments is relevant and that good performance and reliability can be maintained with ALD. The data show also that the gain for using ALD TaN is not apparent for the 65nm node and above.
WNx Film Prepared by Atomic Layer Deposition using F-Free BTBMW and NH3 Plasma Radical for ULSI Applications
Authors: You Dong Ho , Kim Soo Hyun , Lee Ki Hoon , Lee Sang Kyu , Seo Tea Wook
Published: July 2007

Highly conformal and stable WN film was fabricated by atomic layer deposition method (ALD) using BTBMW (bis(tert- butylimido)-bis-(dimethylamido)tungsten, C12H30N4W) and NH3, and deposition temperature was 360{degree sign}C. Amorphous phase was maintained up to 700{degree sign}C after rapid thermal annealing (RTA). To improve diffusion barrier property, NH3 plasma treatment was done at the nucleation step or after film deposition. Surface morphology, film density and diffusion barrier property of the film were improved by NH3 plasma treatment at the nucleation step, and also aging effect of the sheet resistance were removed by NH3 post treatment.
Seedless Copper Electrochemical Deposition on Air Exposed TaN Barrier Layers with Pd and Ru Adhesion Promoters
Authors: Lay Nicole , Duquette David J.
Published: July 2007

A method is presented for the direct plating of copper on plasma enhanced atomic layer deposited (PE-ALD) palladium for ULSD applications. While the nucleation and growth of copper directly onto TaN is possible, difficulties arise with the growth of adherent, uniform, conformal layers. This study examines the possibility of depositing a thin interlayer, (essentially a seed layer) that is sufficiently thin that it does not compromise the resistance of the copper, and provides a conformal seed layer for the subsequent electrodeposition step, without the problems associated with line-of-site techniques such as PVD for aggressive ULSD features. Cu deposition was performed on both patterned trench structures and on planar substrates of PE-ALD Pd on air-exposed tantalum nitride. Successful copper deposition was obtained from conventional bath formulations, and clear superfilling behavior was observed.
New Precursors for Copper ALD
Authors: Norman John A. , Perez Melanie , Lei Xinjian , Cheng Hansong
Published: July 2007

A series of new non-fluorinated volatile copper precursors are described which have been designed for ALD copper. These new molecules are low melting solids which show outstanding thermal stability and high chemical reactivity with molecular hydrogen to give pure copper films on ruthenium substrates in the temperature range of 130-200{degree sign}C. Using ruthenium (001) substrates results in strongly adherent ALD copper films which are preferentially oriented (111) for optimal electrical performance.
ALD Options for Si-integrated Ultrahigh-density Decoupling Capacitors in Pore and Trench Designs
Authors: Roozeboom F. , Klootwijk Johan , Verhoeven Jan , van den Heuvel Eric , Dekkers Wouter , Heil Stephan , van Hemmen Hans , van de Sanden Richard , Kessels Erwin , Le Cornec F , Guiraud L , Chevrie D , Bunel C , Murray F , Kim Heondo , Blin D
Published: July 2007

This paper reviews the options of using Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) in passive and heterogeneous integration. The miniaturization intended by both integration schemes aim at Si- based integration for the former and at die stacking in a compact System-in-Package for the latter. In future Si-based integrated passives a next miniaturization step in trench capacitors requires the use of multiple 'classical' MOS layer stacks and the use of so-called high-k dielectrics (based on HfO2, etc.) and novel conductive layers like TiN, etc. to compose MIS and MIM stacks in 'trench' and 'pore' capacitors with capacitance densities exceeding 200 nF/mm2. One of the major challenges in realizing ultrahigh-density trench capacitors is to find an attractive pore lining and filling fabrication technology at reasonable cost and reaction rate as well as low temperature (for back-end processing freedom). As the deposition for the dielectric and conductive layers should be highly uniform, step-conformal and low- temperature ({less than or equal to} 400 {degree sign}C), ALD is an enabling technology here, by virtue of the self-limiting mechanism of this layer-by-layer deposition technique. This article discusses first a few examples of LPCVD deposition of conventional MOS layers with ONO-dielectrics and in situ doped polycrystalline silicon, both as single layers and multilayer stacks. In addition, a few options for ALD deposition of thin dielectric and conductive layers (e.g. HfO2- and TiN-based) will be discussed. The silicon substrates that were used contained high aspect ratio ({greater than or equal to} 20) features with cross-section and spacing of the order of 1 μm.
Atomic Layer Deposited Films for Micro- and Nano-Scale Electro-Mechanical Systems
Authors: Chang Yuan-Jen , Cobry Keith D. , Wilson Christopher A. , George Steven M. , Bright Victor M.
Published: July 2007

Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) can be effectively used to deposit custom-designed, multi-material layers with atomic resolution on any micro- or nano-scale device surface. The nano-scale ALD coating can protect the devices from electrical short, charge accumulation, moisture-induced adhesion, wear, corrosion, creep, fatigue and anodic oxidation during short- term prototyping or long-term product life. Alternatively, ALD films can be lithographically defined in selected areas and micromachined to create ultra-thin nanoscale structures.
Fabrication and Characteristics of TiO2 Nanotubes Using Atomic Layer Chemical Vapor Deposition (ALCVD)
Authors: Cha Dongkyu , Lee Bongki , Kim Moon , Kim Jiyoung , Won Sanghee , Shin Hyunjung , Lee Jaegab , Sung Myungmo
Published: July 2007

In this study, we report fabrication of TiO2 nanotubes using atomic layer chemical vapor deposition (ALCVD). In addition, electrical properties of a single TiO2 nanotube device are presented. Comparative study on TiO2 nanotube devices is discussed. The test devices are fabricated by a novel patterning route combined with conventional photolithography and Focused Ion Beam (FIB) techniques as well as direct FIB patterning. Additionally, electrical characteristics of TiO2 nanotubes are measured by direct probing in TEM. TiO2 nanotube devices show linear I-V characteristics depending on ambient and technique of measurement.
Area Selective Atomic Layer Deposition of Titanium Dioxide
Authors: Sinha Ashwini , Henderson Clifford , Hess Dennis W.
Published: July 2007

A polymer-based masking approach to perform area selective atomic layer deposition (ASALD) of titanium dioxide (TiO2) has been demonstrated. Direct patterned growth of TiO2 has been performed using TiCl4 or Ti(OCH(CH3)2)4 as metal precursors and DI water as the oxygen source. PMMA is used as a photodefinable masking layer. Intrinsic reactivity of the metal precursor and its diffusion through the masking layer are critical in establishing a successful ASALD process. In addition, a novel approach to top surface imaging based on ASALD has also been demonstrated. Direct area selective patterned growth of TiO2 on a chemically amplified protected polymer film and subsequent pattern transfer by oxygen plasma etching has been achieved
Transparent Conducting Oxides at High Aspect Ratios by ALD
Authors: Pellin Michael J. , Elam J. W. , Libera Joseph A. , Martinson Alex B. , Hupp Joseph T.
Published: July 2007

Transparent conducting oxides (TCOs) are important electronic materials which as their name implies possess the seemingly mutually exclusive properties of high optical transmittance in the visible region (>80%) and relatively high conductivity. These properties are achieved with high carrier mobilities in relatively wide band gap n-type semiconductor materials. TCOs are sensitive to composition and oxygen stoichiometry. Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) is an ideal deposition method, particularly when high aspect ratio materials must being coated. Here we use exposure times to control the deposition area. Very long exposure times are used to coat high aspect ratio pores uniformly while short exposure times are used to produce pore closing outer surface films.
Synthesis and Properties of ZrO2-In2O3 Overlayers by ALD on the Porous SOFC State-of-the Art Cathode
Authors: Brahim Cyrine , Ringuedé Armelle , Cassir Michel , Putkonen Matti , Niinistö Lauri
Published: July 2007

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) was used to produce ultrathin layers of india-doped zirconia, ZrO2-In2O3 (IDZ). The dopant amount selected (26 and 34 mol%) favors the ionic conductivity of the zirconia solid solution. The compounds produced at 300 {degree sign} C are well-crystallized without any annealing treatment. Impedance spectroscopy measurements showed a unique high frequency contribution, no electrode response being observed. The activation energy obtained is significantly lower than for sintered IDZ materials.
Atomic Layer Deposition of Al2O3/NiO/Al2O3 Laminate Structures for Nonvolatile Memory Device Applications
Authors: Cho Wontae , Lee Sun Sook , Chung Taek-Mo , Lee Young Kuk , Kim Chang Gyoun , You Yil-Hwan , Hwang Jin-Ha , An Ki-Seok
Published: July 2007

We have fabricated Al2O3/NiO/Al2O3 nano-laminate structures on Si(001) substrate using atomic layer deposition technique for floating gate memory application.
Sexual dimorphism in cortisol secretion starts after age 10 in healthy children: urinary cortisol metabolite excretion rates during growth
Authors: Wudy Stefan A. , Hartmann Michaela F. , Remer Thomas
Published: July 2007

Detailed data on the physiological pattern of adrenocortical activity during normal growth are lacking. An established method to determine adrenocortical glucocorticoid secretion is the measurement of 24-h excretion rates of major urinary cortisol metabolites (C21). To test the hypothesis that the frequently reported higher cortisol secretion in men than in women develops during puberty, we examined C21 together with excretions of combined urinary free and conjugated cortisol (Fcomb) in 400 healthy boys and girls aged 3–18 yr using GC-MS. Daily excretion rates of C21, Fcomb, and body surface area (BSA)-corrected Fcombsignificantly increased with age in both sexes. In contrast, C21/BSA (μg·m−2·day−1) declined from the age of 3–4 yr to 7–8 yr in boys and girls ( P < 0.01; e.g., in boys: from 3,991 ± 1,167 to 3,193 ± 804), then increased in both sexes, and finally became discordant after the age of 11–12 yr with a further rise in males only (17- to 18-yr-olds: boys, 5,275 ± 1,414; girls 3,939 ± 1,586, P < 0.01). This pattern was associated with the occurrence of a lower index for 5α-reductase activity (allotetrahydrocortisol/tetrahydrocortisol) in females compared with males. Our results demonstrate dynamic changes in adrenocortical activity in healthy children resulting in an emerging sexual dimorphism in cortisol secretion after age 11. The latter can be explained, at least partly, by diverging 5α-reductase activities in boys and girls. Fcomb, a frequently analyzed GC-MS parameter, proved not to reflect dynamic changes in cortisol secretion. In conclusion, the varying metabolic need for cortisol during normal growth may have implications for future improvements in glucocorticoid replacement therapy.
Information Rate and Spike-Timing Precision of Proprioceptive Afferents
Authors: DiCaprio Ralph A. , Billimoria Cyrus P. , Ludwar Björn Ch.
Published: July 2007

Proprioception in the first two joints of crustacean limbs is mediated by chordotonal organs that utilize spike-mediated information coding and transmission and by nonspiking proprioceptive afferents that use graded transmission at information rates in excess of 2,500 bits/s. Chordotonal organs operate in parallel with the graded receptors, but the information rates of the spiking chordotonal afferents have not been previously determined. Lower-bound estimates of chordotonal afferent information rates were calculated using stimulus reconstruction, which assumes linear encoding of the stimulus. The information rate was also directly estimated from the spike train entropy, which makes no a priori assumptions with respect to the coding scheme used by the system. Lower-bound information rate estimates ranged from 43 to 69 bits/s, whereas the direct estimates ranged from 24 to 278 bits/s. Comparison of both estimates derived from the same data set indicates that a linear decoder could recover an average of 59% of the information from the spike train. Afferent spike timing was found to be extremely precise, with spikes evoked with an average timing jitter of 0.55 ms. Information rate was correlated with the mean jitter and the noise entropy of the spike train could be predicted from the mean firing rate and mean jitter. Direct stimulation of single afferents by current injection into the soma revealed that the average timing jitter was <0.1 ms, indicating that intrinsic membrane properties, spike generation, and mechanotransduction mechanisms are the major sources of timing jitter in this system.
Role of Growth Factor Receptor–Bound Protein 7 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Itoh Shinji , Taketomi Akinobu , Tanaka Shinji , Harimoto Norifumi , Yamashita Yo-ichi , Aishima Shin-ichi , Maeda Takashi , Shirabe Ken , Shimada Mitsuo , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: July 2007

The human growth factor receptor–bound protein 7 (Grb7) is an adaptor molecule and is related to cell invasion. In this present study, we investigated the clinical and biological significance of Grb7 expression in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We reviewed 64 consecutive patients who had undergone liver resection for HCC, and we investigated the correlation between Grb7 expression and clinical outcome. To analyze the biological behavior of Grb7 in vitro and in vivo, we established Grb7 stable knockdown HCC cells using RNA interference technology. The positive staining of Grb7 protein was correlated with portal venous invasion (P < 0.01), hepatic venous invasion (P < 0.01), and intrahepatic metastasis (P < 0.05). Positive expression of Grb7 was significantly correlated with focal adhesion kinase (FAK) protein levels in HCC (P < 0.01). The Grb7- and FAK-positive group showed a significantly poorer prognosis as compared with the Grb7- and FAK-negative group (P < 0.05). Grb7 knockdown HCC cells exhibited significantly lower levels of invasion potential (P < 0.05) and motility (P < 0.05) than the control cells in vitro; moreover, Grb7 knockdown HCC cells showed delayed onset of the tumors compared with the control cells in vivo. Grb7 expression can modulate the invasive phenotype of HCC. Grb7 plays an important role in HCC progression and is strongly associated with expression of FAK. Grb7 could be a therapeutic target in HCC. (Mol Cancer Res 2007;5(7):667–73)
c-Jun Has Multiple Enhancing Activities in the Novel Cross Talk between the Androgen Receptor and Ets Variant Gene 1 in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Cai Changmeng , Hsieh Chen-Lin , Shemshedini Lirim
Published: July 2007

The multiple transcriptional roles of c-Jun are shown in a novel cross-talk between the androgen receptor (AR) and its new target gene, Ets variant gene 1 (ETV1). In this report, we show that c-Jun can mediate AR induction of ETV1 expression independent of c-Jun transactivation function. Interestingly, c-Jun can transactivate the cloned ETV1 promoter also in the absence of ligand-activated AR, suggesting two mechanisms by which c-Jun can induce ETV1 expression. In addition, both wild-type c-Jun and a transactivation-deficient mutant can enhance the transcriptional activity of ETV1, as measured by both reporter gene assay and endogenous expression of matrix metalloproteinase genes, well-known targets of Ets proteins. Overexpression of the c-Jun mutant protein also led to increased prostate cancer cell invasion. Immunoprecipitation and immunocytochemistry experiments showed copurification and colocalization of c-Jun with AR or ETV1, suggesting that c-Jun acts on AR or ETV1 via a physical association. Collectively, these results, together with a parallel overexpression of ETV1, c-Jun, and AR in prostate tumors, imply that c-Jun plays a pivotal role in the pathway that connects ligand-activated AR to elevated ETV1 expression, leading to enhanced expression of matrix metalloproteinases and prostate cancer cell invasion. (Mol Cancer Res 2007;5(7):725–35)
Coping With Global Environmental Problems
Authors: Homburg Andreas , Stolberg Andreas , Wagner Ulrich
Published: July 2007

How do people cope with global environmental problems? This article reports on the development and initial validation of a set of scales that measure coping with global environmental problems (e.g., climate change). Lazarus' coping approach formed the theoretical basis for the development of the scales. Altogether, eight scales were developed: problem solving, expressive coping, denial of guilt, relativization, wishful thinking, self-protection, pleasure, and resignation. In three studies ( N = 265; 275; 225) the scales and the scale structure were replicated (Cronbach's α: .63 to .90). A two-dimensional metastructure of the scales was supported by the data (problem-focused coping vs. deproblematization-focused coping). Furthermore, correlations (coping with stress and proenvironmental behavior) and hypothesized group differences in coping found empirical support. Thus, the scales can be used for research projects as well as for the preparation and evaluation of interventions to alleviate environmental stress and to foster proenvironmental behavior.
Sexual Murderers of Children
Authors: Beauregard Eric , Stone Maryann R. , Proulx Jean , Michaud Patrick
Published: July 2007

The amount of empirical research on men who commit sexual murders is scarce, and no distinction has been made between those who have victimized adults and those who have victimized children. Therefore, to better understand specifically sexual murderers of children ( n = 11), comparisons were performed with a group of sexual murderers of adult women ( n = 66) on developmental, precrime, crime, and postcrime factors. It appears that sexual murderers of children are more often victims of sexual abuse during childhood and present more often deviant sexual fantasies as compared to sexual murderers of women. The results show also that sexual murderers of children more often use pornography prior to crime, have contact with the victim prior to crime, and commit a crime more often characterized by premeditation, strangulation, the hiding of the body, and its dismemberment than the sexual murderers of women.
Functional Status After Childbirth
Authors: Aktan Nadine M.
Published: July 2007

The objective is to summarize the existing nursing literature on the concept of functional status after childbirth. Studies were selected by incorporating all existing published literature, including inquiry into functional status after childbirth as measured by the Inventory of Functional Status After Childbirth. The data were extracted from online nursing databases such as CINAHL (1982-present) and dissertation abstracts. Results of the literature review indicate the need for further development of functional status after childbirth and the instrument used to measure it, the Inventory of Functional Status after Childbirth. The author concludes that functional status after childbirth is a highly important nursing concept and further inquiry is needed to guide nursing practice.
Demographic determinants of acute gastrointestinal illness in Canada: a population study
Authors: Majowicz Shannon E , Horrocks Julie , Bocking Kathryn
Published: July 2007

Background

Gastrointestinal illness is an important global public health issue, even in developed countries, where the morbidity and economic impact are significant. Our objective was to evaluate the demographic determinants of acute gastrointestinal illness in Canadians.

Methods

We used data from two population-based studies conducted in select communities between 2001 and 2003. Together, the studies comprised 8,108 randomly selected respondents; proxies were used for all respondents under 12 years and for respondents under 19 years at the discretion of the parent or guardian. Using univariate and multivariate logistic regression, we evaluated the following demographic determinants: age, gender, cultural group, and urban/rural status of the respondent, highest education level of the respondent or proxy, number of people in the household, and total annual household income. Two-way interaction terms were included in the multivariate analyses. The final multivariate model included income, age, gender, and the interaction between income and gender.

Results

After adjusting for income, gender, and their interaction, children under 10 years had the highest risk of acute gastrointestinal illness, followed by young adults aged 20 to 24 years. For males, the risk of acute gastrointestinal illness was similar across all income levels, but for females the risk was much higher in the lowest income category. Specifically, in those with total annual household incomes of less than $20,000, the odds of acute gastrointestinal illness were 2.46 times higher in females than in males.

Conclusion

Understanding the demographic determinants of acute gastrointestinal illness is essential in order to identify vulnerable groups to which intervention and prevention efforts can be targeted.
Payer leverage and hospital compliance with a benchmark: a population-based observational study
Authors: Hollingsworth John M , Krein Sarah L , Miller David C , DeMonner Sonya , Hollenbeck Brent K
Published: July 2007

Background

Since 1976, Medicare has linked reimbursement for hospitals performing organ transplants to the attainment of certain benchmarks, including transplant volume. While Medicare is a stakeholder in all transplant services, its role in renal transplantation is likely greater, given its coverage of end-stage renal disease. Thus, Medicare's transplant experience allows us to examine the role of payer leverage in motivating hospital benchmark compliance.

Methods

Nationally representative discharge data for kidney (n= 29,272), liver (n= 7,988), heart (n= 3,530), and lung (n= 1,880) transplants from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (1993 – 2003) were employed. Logistic regression techniques with robust variance estimators were used to examine the relationship between hospital volume compliance and Medicare market share; generalized estimating equations were used to explore the association between patient-level operative mortality and hospital volume compliance.

Results

Medicare's transplant market share varied by organ [57%, 28%, 27%, and 18% for kidney, lung, heart, and liver transplants, respectively (P< 0.001)]. Volume-based benchmark compliance varied by transplant type [85%, 75%, 44%, and 39% for kidney, liver, heart, and lung transplants, respectively (P< 0.001)], despite a lower odds of operative mortality at compliant hospitals. Adjusting for organ supply, high market leverage was independently associated with compliance at hospitals transplanting kidneys (OR, 143.00; 95% CI, 18.53 – 1103.49), hearts (OR, 2.84; 95% CI, 1.51 – 5.34), and lungs (OR, 3.24; 95% CI, 1.57 – 6.67).

Conclusion

These data highlight the influence of payer leverage–an important contextual factor in value-based purchasing initiatives. For uncommon diagnoses, these data suggest that at least 30% of a provider's patients might need to be "at risk" for an incentive to motivate compliance.
Emergence of Human Angiohematopoietic Cells in Normal Development and from Cultured Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: ZAMBIDIS ELIAS T. , SINKA LIDIA , TAVIAN MANUELA , JOKUBAITIS VENTA , PARK TEA SOON , SIMMONS PAUL , PÉAULT BRUNO
Published: July 2007

Abstract:  Human hematopoiesis proceeds transiently in the extraembryonic yolk sac and embryonic, then fetal liver before being stabilized in the bone marrow during the third month of gestation. In addition to this classic developmental sequence, we have previously shown that the aorta‐gonad‐mesonephros (AGM) embryonic territory produces stem cells for definitive hematopoiesis from 27 to 40 days of human development, through an intermediate blood‐forming endothelium stage. These studies have relied on the use of traditional markers of human hematopoietic and endothelial cells. In addition, we have recently identified and characterized a novel surface molecule, BB9, which typifies the earliest founders of the human angiohematopoietic system. BB9, which was initially identified with a monoclonal antibody raised to Stro‐1+ bone marrow stromal cells, recognizes in the adult the most primitive Thy‐1+ CD133+ Lin−, non‐obese diabetic—severe combined immunodeficiency disease (NOD–SCID) mouse engrating hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). In the 3‐ to 4‐week embryo, BB9 expression typifies a subset of splanchnopleural mesodermal cells that migrate dorsally and colonize the ventral aspect of the aorta where they establish a population of hemogenic endothelial cells. We have indeed confirmed that hematopoietic potential in the human embryo, as assessed by long‐term culture‐initiating cell (LTC‐IC) and SCID mouse reconstituting cell (SRC) activities, is confined to BB9‐expressing cells. We have further validated these results in the model of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) in which we have modeled, through the development of hematopoietic embryoid bodies (EBs), primitive and definitive hematopoieses. In this setting, we have documented the emergence of BB9+ hemangioblast‐like clonogenic angiohematopoietic progenitors that currently represent the earliest known founders of the human vascular and blood systems.
Feasibility and Outcome of Reduced‐Intensity Conditioning in Haploidentical Transplantation
Authors: HANDGRETINGER RUPERT , CHEN XIAOHUA , PFEIFFER MATTHIAS , MUELLER INGO , FEUCHTINGER TOBIAS , HALE GREGORY A. , LANG PETER
Published: July 2007

Abstract:  Allogeneic stem cell transplantation is for a number of patients with malignant and nonmalignant diseases the only curative approach. For those patients who do not have an HLA‐identical–related or –unrelated stem cell donor, a related three‐loci mismatch haploidentical stem cell transplantation with T cell‐depleted stem cells is a viable option. T cell depletion either by CD34+ positive selection or by CD3‐negative depletion strategies is available and has been investigated. We have shown that reduced‐intensity conditioning haploidentical transplantation using mobilized peripheral stem cells negatively depleted from T and B lymphocytes is associated with a rapid immune reconstitution, a low transplant‐related mortality rate, and a favorable outcome in patients in remission at the time of transplant. For chemorefractory patients, additional posttransplant cellular and humoral immunotherapeutic strategies are needed for prevention of relapse after transplantation.