bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Object-Based Point Cloud Analysis of Full-Waveform Airborne Laser Scanning Data for Urban Vegetation Classification
Authors: Rutzinger Martin , Höfle Bernhard , Hollaus Markus , Pfeifer Norbert
Published: August 2008

Airborne laser scanning (ALS) is a remote sensing technique well-suited for 3D vegetation mapping and structure characterization because the emitted laser pulses are able to penetrate small gaps in the vegetation canopy. The backscattered echoes from the foliage, woody vegetation, the terrain, and other objects are detected, leading to a cloud of points. Higher echo densities (> 20 echoes/m2) and additional classification variables from full-waveform (FWF) ALS data, namely echo amplitude, echo width and information on multiple echoes from one shot, offer new possibilities in classifying the ALS point cloud. Currently FWF sensor information is hardly used for classification purposes. This contribution presents an object-based point cloud analysis (OBPA) approach, combining segmentation and classification of the 3D FWF ALS points designed to detect tall vegetation in urban environments. The definition tall vegetation includes trees and shrubs, but excludes grassland and herbage. In the applied procedure FWF ALS echoes are segmented by a seeded region growing procedure. All echoes sorted descending by their surface roughness are used as seed points. Segments are grown based on echo width homogeneity. Next, segment statistics (mean, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation) are calculated by aggregating echo features such as amplitude and surface roughness. For classification a rule base is derived automatically from a training area using a statistical classification tree. To demonstrate our method we present data of three sites with around 500,000 echoes each. The accuracy of the classified vegetation segments is evaluated for two independent validation sites. In a point-wise error assessment, where the classification is compared with manually classified 3D points, completeness and correctness better than 90% are reached for the validation sites. In comparison to many other algorithms the proposed 3D point classification works on the original measurements directly, i.e. the acquired points. Gridding of the data is not necessary, a process which is inherently coupled to loss of data and precision. The 3D properties provide especially a good separability of buildings and terrain points respectively, if they are occluded by vegetation.
Interaction between gene variants of the serotonin transporter promoter region (5‐HTTLPR) and catechol O‐methyltransferase (COMT) in borderline personality disorder
Authors: Tadić André , Victor Anja , Başkaya Ömür , von Cube Robert , Hoch Julia , Kouti Ioanna , Anicker Nina J. , Höppner Wolfgang , Lieb Klaus , Dahmen Norbert
Published: August 2008

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is characterized by a heterogeneous symptomatology with instability in impulse control, interpersonal relationships and self‐image. BPD patients display repeated self‐injury, chronic suicidal tendencies and emotional dysregulation, mainly dysregulation of negative affect. In its etiology, genetic and environmental factors have been suggested. Recently, an investigation in male healthy volunteers found gene–gene effects of the catechol‐O‐methyl‐transferase (COMT) low‐activity (Met158) and the low‐expression allele of the deletion/insertion (short/long or S/L, respectively) polymorphism in the serotonin transporter‐linked promoter region (5‐HTTLPR) on the central processing of aversive stimuli. The purpose of the present study was to test for association between BPD and the COMT Val158Met single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), the 5‐HTTLPR S/L variant and the interaction of these two gene variants. One hundred sixty one well‐defined Caucasian BPD patients and 156 healthy controls were recruited from central Germany. In BPD patients, the genotype COMT Met158Met was over‐represented compared to healthy controls (P = 0.0085; adjusted P = 0.034). We observed no differences in 5‐HTTLPR genotypes between BPD and controls (P = 0.286). Additionally, the COMT Met158Met genotype was significantly over‐represented in BPD patients carrying at least one 5‐HTTLPR S allele (P = 0.0007; adjusted P = 0.028). Logistic regression analysis confirmed an interaction of the COMT Met158 and the 5‐HTTLPR S allele (P = 0.001). These data suggest an involvement of altered dopaminergic and/or noradrenergic neurotransmission as well as an interactive effect of COMT and 5‐HTTLPR gene variants in the etiology of BPD, and underline the usefulness of analyses of gene–gene effects in diseases of complex inheritance with multiple genes involved. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Magnetic and seismic investigations of historic features in the Suchon area, Kongju, Korea
Authors: Oh Jinyong , Abdallatif Tareq , Suh Mancheol
Published: August 2008

Integrated geophysical surveys including magnetometer, gradiometer and seismic refraction were performed in the Suchon area, Kongju, Korea, which revealed three locations of buried architectural features. The magnetometer survey identified four main anomalies that were further tested using the gradiometer. Application of the second vertical derivative and the high‐pass filtering techniques to the magnetometer data isolated the deeper sources and enhanced the near‐surface features. Depth was estimated using magnetometer data and seismic refraction analysis. The study identified three promising areas that are strongly recommended for excavation, which can be seen in the northeastern and southwestern parts of the study area. They are strongly linked to shallow historical features, i.e. brick tomb structure, pottery collection and stone‐mound tomb, that were dominant during Baekche rule in Suchon area and therefore are believed to be from the Baekche period. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Virtual laboratories in engineering education: The simulation lab and remote lab
Authors: Balamuralithara B. , Woods P. C.
Published: August 2008

Computing and communication technology has had a significant impact on the engineering education system. This technology has improved online and collaborative learning. Besides that, it improves the students learning experiences. One of the distinguishing elements of engineering education is the laboratory requirement. In this paper, we discuss the current trends and key issues in virtual laboratories‐simulation environment laboratories and remote laboratories via the Internet. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 17: 108–118, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae20186
Directable animation of elastic bodies with point‐constraints
Authors: Kondo Ryo , Anjyo Ken
Published: August 2008

We propose a simple framework for making elastic body animation with point constraints. In general, a physics‐based approach for constraint animation offers a variety of animations with physically correct realism, which are achieved by solving the equations of motion. However, in the digital animation industry, solving the equations of motion is an indirect path to creating more art‐directed animations that maintain a plausible realism. Our algorithms provide animators a practical way to make elastic body animation with plausible realism, while effectively using point‐constraints to offer directatorial control. The animation examples illustrate that our framework creates a wide variety of point‐constraint animations of elastic objects with greater directability than existing methods. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differential development of body equilibrium among littermates in the newborn rabbit
Authors: Muciño Edith , Bautista Amando , Jiménez Ismael , Martínez‐Gómez Margarita , Hudson Robyn
Published: August 2008

Interest is growing among psychobiologists and behavioral ecologists in the role of sibling relations in shaping individual development and life histories. In litters of domestic rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus the heaviest pups at birth are more likely to survive the critical first postnatal week, they compete more effectively with littermates for milk and well‐insulated positions in the litter huddle, and are the heaviest at weaning. Here we report that high birth weight pups are also better able to maintain body equilibrium. Testing pups' ability to maintain equilibrium when placed on a 15° ramp for 2 min each day during the first postnatal week, we found that pups showed a continual daily improvement in their ability to maintain balance while moving on the ramp, rarely lost balance by postnatal day 8, and that heavier pups could maintain balance better and earlier than their lighter littermates. Better ability to maintain body equilibrium, however achieved, may help explain heavier pups' advantage in competing for vital resources such as milk and in gaining access to better‐insulated positions in the litter huddle. It also provides further support for the usefulness of birth weight, not only as an absolute measure but also relative to the weight of other littermates, as a predictor of different developmental trajectories, behavioral and physiological, among same‐age siblings in this mammal. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 51: 24–33, 2009
Factors potentiating the risk of mirtazapine‐associated restless legs syndrome
Authors: Kim Sung‐Wan , Shin Il‐Seon , Kim Jae‐Min , Park Kee‐Hyung , Youn Tak , Yoon Jin‐Sang
Published: August 2008

Objective

Mirtazapine is known to often provoke restless legs syndrome (RLS). In this retrospective chart review study, we evaluated the socio‐demographic and clinical factors related to mirtazapine‐associated RLS.

Methods

Computerized medical records of 181 patients treated with mirtazapine from May 2004 to October 2007 were reviewed. RLS was identified using the diagnostic criteria of the International RLS Study Group. Socio‐demographic and clinical characteristics were gathered, including comorbid physical illness and concomitant medications.

Results

Mirtazapine‐associated RLS was observed in 14 patients (8%), and most cases had developed within a few days after starting mirtazapine. Concomitant medication with tramadol, non‐opioid analgesics, antihistamine, and dopamine‐blocking agents was more frequently prescribed in subjects developing mirtazapine‐associated RLS. In logistic regression analysis, concomitant medication with tramadol (odds ratio: 8.61, 95% confidence interval: 1.71–43.49) and dopamine‐blocking agents (odds ratio: 4.67, 95% confidence interval: 1.31–16.70) enhanced the risk of mirtazapine‐associated RLS.

Conclusion

The combined use of mirtazapine with tramadol or dopamine‐blocking agents could potentiate the risk of RLS. Clinician should watch carefully for the development of RLS when mirtazapine is administered to patients who are taking tramadol or dopamine‐blocking agents. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protein misfolding inside cells: The case of huntingtin and Huntington's disease
Authors: Hatters Danny M.
Published: August 2008

Huntington's disease is one of the several neurodegenerative diseases caused by dominant mutations that expand the number of glutamine codons within an existing poly‐glutamine (polyQ) repeat sequence of a gene. An expanded polyQ sequence in the huntingtin gene is known to cause the huntingtin protein to aggregate and form intracellular inclusions as disease progresses. However, the role that polyQ‐induced aggregation plays in disease is yet to be fully determined. This review focuses on key questions remaining for how the expanded polyQ sequences affect the aggregation properties of the huntingtin protein and the corresponding effects on cellular machinery. The scope includes the technical challenges that remain for rigorously assessing the effects of aggregation on the cellular machinery. © 2008 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 60(11): 724–728, 2008
NF‐κB and AP‐1 are key signaling pathways in the modulation of NAD(P)H:Quinone oxidoreductase 1 gene by mercury, lead, and copper
Authors: Korashy Hesham M. , El‐Kadi Ayman O. S.
Published: August 2008

We have previously shown that Hg2+, Pb2+, and Cu2+, significantly modulate the expression of NAD(P):quinone oxidoreductase 1 (Nqo1) in Hepa 1c1c7 cells through oxidative stress‐dependent mechanisms. In the current study, we examined the role of redox‐sensitive transcription factors, NF‐κB and AP‐1 signaling pathways in the modulation ofNqo1by heavy metals. Our results show that the depletion of cellular GSH usingL‐buthionine‐(S,R)‐sulfoximine further potentiated the heavy metal‐mediated induction of Nqo1 at the mRNA and activity levels. The NF‐κB activator, PMA, significantly abolished the metal‐mediated effects on Nqo1 mRNA and activity. In parallel, the NF‐κB inhibitor, PDTC, further potentiated the Pb2+‐ and Hg2+‐mediated induction of Nqo1 mRNA and activity levels, respectively. Inhibition of AP‐1 upstream signaling pathway such as JNK by SP600125 significantly suppressed heavy metal‐mediated induction of Nqo1 mRNA and activity levels. In contrast, inhibition of ERK by U0126 further potentiated heavy metal‐mediated effects on Nqo1 mRNA, while only potentiated Hg2+‐mediated induction of Nqo1 activity. Furthermore, p38 MAPK inhibitor, SB203580 further potentiated Pb2+‐ and Cu2+‐mediated effects at the mRNA levels, whereas did not alter the activity levels. These results clearly demonstrate that activation of NF‐κB negatively regulates the expression ofNqo1by heavy metals, whereas AP‐1 signaling pathways differentially modulates the heavy metal‐mediated effects. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 22:274–283, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.20238
Using Research‐Supported Group Treatments
Authors: Johnson Jennifer
Published: August 2008

Resources that summarize research‐supported treatments (RSTs) are useful tools in clinical decision making. These resources can be particularly helpful when clinicians are uncertain about which treatment direction to take, when treatment does not seem to be working, when clinicians need to justify their approach to others, and when clinicians do not have time to review recent research on a particular clinical issue. This article describes resources for finding short, user‐friendly summaries of research‐supported group treatments, briefly describes several research‐supported group treatments that are not well described in existing resources, and recommends several ways in which these research summaries can be used to improve group practice. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol: In Session 64:1–19, 2008.
Our knowledge ourselves: Engineers (re)thinking technology in development
Authors: Wilson Gordon
Published: August 2008

A re‐conceptualisation of technology (and science) in development is claimed to be taking, or have recently taken place. There is more than one variant, but they have in common a pluralist, constructivist conception of knowledge and its importance for development. What, however, do professional practitioners of technology in development say about their values, their mindsets and their practices, and what, if anything, does this sense‐making contribute to the re‐conceptualisation? Based on interviews with development‐related engineers from a previous research project, and analysis of engineer perspectives that are provided on a private sector company website, this exploratory paper offers some preliminary observations. These include:

A positive attitude to working with others and their realities, especially but not exclusively other professional realities

A concern with enhancing their professional identity

The interplay between retrospective reflection and ongoing enactment through projects

The motivation associated with a ‘can‐do mindset’ and the importance of creativity for job satisfaction and enhancement

The general importance of shared experience gained through working with others.

Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐efficiency transfection of short hairpin RNAs‐encoding plasmids into primary hippocampal neurons
Authors: Zeitelhofer Manuel , Karra Daniela , Vessey John P. , Jaskic Elmir , Macchi Paolo , Thomas Sabine , Riefler Julia , Kiebler Michael , Dahm Ralf
Published: August 2008

The transfection of expression constructs encoding a variety of transgenes is a widely used method to study gene function in cultured cells. Especially when the efficiency of the knock‐down of target proteins via small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) is to be determined by quantitative Western blotting, large proportions of untransfected cells compromise the analysis. Achieving high transfection efficiencies in postmitotic cells, such as neurons, poses a particular problem in that these cells cannot be selected for the expression of the transgene following transfection. It is therefore important to develop protocols that allow for the highly efficient transfection of these cells. In the present study, we identify three important parameters that prove especially useful for chronically difficult to transfect short hairpin RNA (shRNA)‐encoding plasmids: the amount and quality of the plasmid DNA used and the use of new nucleofection programs. Combining those changes increases the rate of transfected cells from less than 5% to up to ∼80%. Importantly, these high transfection efficiencies can be obtained while maintaining good cell viability and normal cellular development. Taken together, these improvements allow for a detailed biochemical and phenotypical analysis of neurons that have been nucleoporated with a wide variety of shRNAs. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cold‐induced exodus of postsynaptic proteins from dendritic spines
Authors: Cheng Hui‐Hsuan , Huang Zu‐Han , Lin Wei‐Hsiang , Chow Wei‐Yuan , Chang Yen‐Chung
Published: August 2008

Dendritic spines are small protrusions on neuronal dendrites and the major target of the excitatory inputs in mammalian brains. Cultured neurons and brain slices are important tools in studying the biochemical and cellular properties of dendritic spines. During the processes of immunocytochemical studies of neurons and the preparation of brain slices, neurons were often kept at temperatures lower than 37°C for varied lengths of time. This study sought to investigate whether and how cold treatment would affect the protein composition of dendritic spines. The results indicated that upon cold treatment four postsynaptic proteins, namely, α,β‐tubulins, calcium, calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase IIα, and cytoplasmic dynein heavy chain and microtubule‐associated protein 2, but not PSD‐95 or AMPA receptors, exited from the majority of dendritic spines of cultured rat hippocampal neurons in a Gd3+‐sensitive manner. The cold‐induced exit of tubulins from dendritic spines was further found to be an energy‐dependent process involving the activation of Gd3+‐sensitive calcium channels and ryanodine receptors. The results thus indicate that changes in temperature, calcium concentration, and energy supply of the medium surrounding neurons would affect the protein composition of the dendritic spines and conceivably the protein composition of the subcellular organizations, such as the postsynaptic density, in the cytoplasm of dendritic spines. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The Significance of Metabolic Syndrome in the Setting of Recurrent Hepatitis C After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Hanouneh Ibrahim A. , Feldstein Ariel E. , McCullough Arthur J. , Miller Charles , Aucejo Federico , Yerian Lisa , Lopez Rocio , Zein Nizar N.
Published: August 2008

Although hyperinsulinemia and its associated metabolic syndrome (MS) have been implicated in the progression of hepatic fibrosis in hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients, little is known about the consequences of MS after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). The aim of this study was to assess the association between MS and fibrosis progression in patients with recurrent HCV after OLT. We identified all OLT/HCV patients (1998-2005) with at least 2 post-OLT liver biopsies. MS was defined with Adult Treatment Panel III criteria at 1 year post-OLT. The Ludwig-Batts scoring system was used to stage all biopsies (408 biopsies from 95 patients). The first biopsy that showed progression post-OLT was used for the time-to-progression analysis. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with fibrosis progression. MS was present in 50% of patients. Average follow-up to last available biopsy was 24 ± 17 months, during which 72% of subjects had fibrosis progression. The overall median rate of fibrosis progression was 0.08 units per month (Q25, Q75: 0.0, 0.17). By univariable analysis, high HCV RNA at 4 months post-OLT (

P

< 0.001), diabetes (

P

= 0.046), cytomegalovirus infection (

P

= 0.006), and MS (

P

= 0.049) were associated with progression of fibrosis. In multivariable analysis, MS was independently associated with progression of fibrosis beyond 1 year after OLT (odds ratio = 6.3,

P

= 0.017). A high viral load at 4 months post-OLT (odds ratio = 1.1,

P

= 0.004) and steroid therapy for acute rejection (odds ratio = 1.9,

P

= 0.05) were independently associated with fibrosis progression. In conclusion, MS, a potentially modifiable disease, is common and is strongly associated with long-term fibrosis progression in the setting of recurrent HCV after OLT.
Liver Transplantation for Autoimmune Hepatitis and the Success of Aggressive Corticosteroid Withdrawal
Authors: Campsen Jeffrey , Zimmerman Michael A. , Trotter James F. , Wachs Michael , Bak Thomas , Steinberg Tracy , Kaplan Maria , Wright Franklin , Kam Igal
Published: August 2008

Our center has attempted to minimize corticosteroid (CS) use in all of our orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) recipients. Because patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) typically require CSs after transplantation, we reviewed our experience in this cohort of patients to determine (1) patient outcomes including recurrent disease and (2) long-term requirements for CS use in AIH patients. From 1988 to 2006, 1102 OLTs were performed in 1032 adult patients at the University of Colorado, of whom 66 (6%) with AIH received 68 allografts. Recurrence was defined by a clinically worsening examination and histological evidence from biopsy. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate predictors of CS withdrawal. Twelve potential predictors of CS discontinuation were considered: age, gender, presence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), type of graft (cadaver or living donor), recurrence of AIH, warm ischemia time, follow-up time (time since transplant), and immunosuppressants (cyclosporine, tacrolimus, sirolimus, azathioprine, and mycophenolate mofetil). Overall survival at 5 years was 91%. The 1- and 5-year recurrence-free survival was 88% and 59%, respectively. Risk (incidence) of recurrent AIH at 1, 3, and 5 years was 12%, 26%, and 36%, respectively. Disease recurred in 23 of 66 patients or 34.8%. Of the 23 patients who developed recurrent disease, none received a second transplant because of recurrent disease. CSs were withdrawn in 50% of patients at the time of review. Only 2 factors on multivariate analysis were strongly associated negatively with CS withdrawal: (1) an increasing dose of the immunosuppressant and (2) the presence of IBD. Controlling for these other factors, we found that recurrent disease did not strongly influence CS withdrawal. In conclusion, outcomes in AIH patients were quite favorable, and none of the patients required retransplantation for recurrent AIH. With a CS minimization approach, one-half of the patients were able to remain CS-free.
Protection From Phototoxic Injury During Surgery and Endoscopy in Erythropoietic Protoporphyria
Authors: Wahlin Staffan , Srikanthan Nirthiga , Hamre Bφrge , Harper Pauline , Brun Atle
Published: August 2008

Erythropoietic protoporphyria is an inherited condition characterized by pronounced solar photosensitivity and in a minority of patients severe liver disease that necessitates liver transplantation for survival. Phototoxic injury to abdominal organs and skin has been reported in several cases of liver transplantation surgery, including a few transplants in which protective light filters were used. This study discusses the optimal characteristics of light filters used during liver transplantation surgery. An experimental model is used to evaluate the relative protection of different filters, and the results are compared with theoretical calculations regarding the risk for phototoxic injury from light sources in health-care procedures. Whether protective measures are warranted in other illuminated procedures besides liver transplantation has been discussed often but never studied. This study elucidates the risk for phototoxic injury in endoscopy, laparoscopy, and non–liver transplant surgery. A theoretical model and epidemiological data are considered. Our findings indicate that endoscopy, laparoscopy, and surgical procedures other than liver transplantation are safe in the noncholestatic protoporphyria patient and that general recommendations for using filters in these situations are not warranted. Among the tested filters, a flexible yellow filter omitting wavelengths below 470 nm is recommended for liver transplant surgery. This filter has been readily accepted by surgeons and offers a good balance between protection and altered visual color perception. The experimental model, using hemolysis of protoporphyrin-loaded erythrocytes as a measure of phototoxicity, has substantiated theoretical findings on relative filter protection.
Manganese‐enhanced MRI of acute cardiac ischemia and chronic infarction in pig hearts: kinetic analysis of enhancement development
Authors: Yang Y. , Gruwel M. L. H. , Sun J. , Gervai P. , Yang X. , Kupriyanov V. V.
Published: August 2008

To assess infarction development in pig hearts, Mn‐enhanced and Gd‐enhanced MRI were used. In domestic pigs (25–35 kg, n = 37), the first and second diagonal branches of the left anterior descending coronary artery were ligated to induce acute ischemia and infarction (ischemia+reperfusion) or chronic infarction of increasing duration (3– 28 days). Ex vivo experiments were performed on hearts perfused in the Langendorff mode with a 50:50 mixture of blood and Krebs–Henseleit buffer using a spin‐echo sequence on a 7 T Bruker imaging system. Signal acquisition from the heart and two reference test tubes (H2O and H2O + 10 mM CuSO4) was gated by the left ventricular pressure wave. T1‐weighted images of six 8 mm short‐axis slices (2 mm interslice gaps) were obtained before and after the addition of 0.2 mM MnCl2 every 5 min over a 30–45 min period. Signal intensities were normalized to those of the H2O reference and fitted by a monoexponential function. The rates of intensity increase and maximal increases were significantly lower in the ischemic/infarcted areas and showed a trend to rise on infarction progression. In vivo Gd‐enhanced MRI (3 T Siemens scanner) and in vivo/ex vivo near‐infrared imaging confirmed major Mn‐enhanced MRI findings. Triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining revealed necrotic areas in all chronic infarctions and no necrosis after acute ischemia. We conclude that MnCl2 highlights ischemic areas because of the low collateral flow characteristic of pig hearts, whereas in the infarcted areas with substantial perfusion, scar tissue components are important for contrast distribution. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular mechanics in the context of the finite element method
Authors: Wackerfuß Jens
Published: August 2008

In molecular mechanics, the formalism of the finite element method can be exploited in order to analyze the behavior of atomic structures in a computationally efficient way. Based on the atom‐related consideration of the atomic interactions, a direct correlation between the type of the underlying interatomic potential and the design of the related finite element is established. Each type of potential is represented by a specific finite element. A general formulation that unifies the various finite elements is proposed. Arbitrary diagonal‐ and cross‐terms dependent on bond length, valence angle, dihedral angle, improper dihedral angle and inversion angle can also be considered. The finite elements are formulated in a geometrically exact setting; the related formulas are stated in detail. The mesh generation can be performed using well‐known procedures typically used in molecular dynamics. Although adjacent elements overlap, a double counting of the element contributions (as a result of the assembly process) cannot occur a priori. As a consequence, the assembly process can be performed efficiently line by line. The presented formulation can easily be implemented in standard finite element codes; thus, already existing features (e.g. equation solver, visualization of the numerical results) can be employed. The formulation is applied to various interatomic potentials that are frequently used to describe the mechanical behavior of carbon nanotubes. The effectiveness and robustness of this method are demonstrated by means of several numerical examples. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The d'Alembert–Lagrange principal equations and applications to floating flexible systems
Authors: Park K. C. , Felippa Carlos A. , Ohayon Roger
Published: August 2008

This paper addresses the dynamics and quasi‐statics of floating flexible structures as well as extensions to unconstrained substructures and partitions of coupled mechanical systems. The principal solution is defined as the state of self‐equilibrated forces obtained as the particular solution of the rigid motion and interface equilibrium equations. This solution is independent of the stress–strain constitutive properties as well as of the compatibility equations. For statically determinate systems, the principal solution is the final force solution. For statically indeterminate systems, the correction due to flexibility and compatibility is orthogonal to the principal solution. The formulation is done in the context of d'Alembert's principle, which supplies the d'Alembert–Lagrange principal equations for floating bodies. These are obtained by summation of virtually working forces and moments acting on the floating systems. Applications of this approach are demonstrated on a set of dynamic and quasi‐static example problems of increasing generality. Linkage to variational principles with an interface potential is eventually discussed as providing the theoretical foundation for handling interacting semi‐discrete subsystems linked by node‐collocated Lagrange multipliers. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An explicit method with improved stability property
Authors: Chang Shuenn‐Yih
Published: August 2008

A new explicit method is presented. This method has an enhanced stability property when compared with the previously published explicit method (J. Eng. Mech. 2007; 133(7):748–760), which is unconditionally stable for linear elastic and any instantaneous stiffness softening systems based on linearized analysis whereas it is only conditionally stable for any instantaneous stiffness hardening system. In contrast to the previously published explicit method, the most important improvement of the new explicit method is that it can have unconditional stability for general instantaneous stiffness hardening systems in addition to linear elastic and instantaneous stiffness softening systems. Since these stability results are obtained from a linearized stability analysis they are applicable to the non‐linear systems that satisfied the simplifications used for the analysis. This explicit method is also shown to be second‐order accurate. It is computationally efficient in the solution of a general structural dynamic problem, where the total response is dominated by low‐frequency modes, when compared with explicit methods, such as the Newmark explicit method and the family of explicit methods developed by Tamma et al. (Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Eng. 2003; 192:257–290), and implicit methods, such as the constant average acceleration method. Some numerical examples are used to confirm the enhanced stability property and the efficiency in computing. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tailoring alumina thin film properties using hydrophilic/hydrophobic copolymer additives
Authors: Isac L. , Duta A. , Purghel E. , Chitanu G. C. , Mitrea S. , Pelin I.
Published: August 2008

Thin films of alumina were deposited onto aluminium‐treated substrates by pneumatic spray pyrolysis at 250 °C. As precursors, solutions of AlCl3 dissolved in the mixture water:ethanol = 1:1 were used. As morphology controlling agents, maleic acid based copolymers (HFB/HFL) and/or acetylacetone were added in spraying solutions. The absorptance (α) and emittance (ϵ) values are those expected for alumina films, as possible matrix in a cermet, used as a solar‐thermal selective absorber. The films have amorphous–crystalline structure and porous morphology. The alumina film composition and crystallinity can be tailored by adding acetylacetone in the spraying solution, when predominantly amorphous structures are obtained. The addition of hydrophobic/hydrophilic copolymer in the precursor solution favours the obtaining of porous aggregates with large, open structures (3.5–4 μm). These porous morphologies are suitable for further infiltration of metallic particles, for preparation of alumina‐based cermets. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Mechanistic study of ZnO nanorod array electrodeposition
Authors: Belghiti H. El , Pauporté T. , Lincot D.
Published: August 2008

The growth of ZnO nanorods by electrodeposition from oxygenated aqueous mixture of zinc chloride and potassium chloride is studied experimentally as a function of the deposition time, zinc concentration and the substrate. These parameters influence markedly the characteristics of the deposits (rod density, aspect ratio, orientation). A mechanistic model is presented in order to explain the formation of ZnO nanorod arrays by electrodeposition. The model is based on the effect of zinc concentration on the interfacial pH at the electrode surface and then on the charged stable zinc species able to react with the growing film. The charge of the complex seems to be the key parameter which stops the lateral growth and then significantly increases the aspect ratio of the single crystalline nanorods. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electronic superlattices and waveguides based on graphene: structures, properties and applications
Authors: Chernozatonskii Leonid A. , Sorokin Pavel B.
Published: August 2008

The new class of quasi‐2D superlattices based on graphene with periodically adsorbed hydrogen pairs was proposed. The ab initio DFT method was used for optimization of the atomic geometry and electronic structure of proposed structures. It was found that the superlattices band gap decreases nonmonotonically with distance between hydrogen pairs. Based on these results we hope that the graphene superlattices can be promising candidates for various nanotechnological applications especially as elements in nanoelectronic devices. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Fluctuation enhanced gas sensing on functionalized carbon nanotube thin films
Authors: Haspel Henrik , Ionescu Radu , Heszler Péter , Kukovecz Ákos , Kónya Zoltán , Gingl Zoltán , Mäklin Jani , Mustonen Tero , Kordás Krisztián , Vajtai Robert , Ajayan Pulickel M.
Published: August 2008

Thin films of functionalized carbon nanotubes were deposited on silicon chips by drop‐coating and inkjet printing. These sensors were exposed to 50 ppm N2O, CO, H2S and H2O vapour in dry synthetic air. We have found relatively small changes in the electrical resistance of the films exposed to the different test gases. However it is shown that chemical classification of the test gases could still be achieved. To this end pattern recognition technique (Principal Component Analysis) was applied on the acquired power spectral density of the stationary resistance fluctuations of the sensors. The method, whereby fluctuations are used to increase the chemical selectivity of electronic sensors, is called fluctuation enhanced sensing. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Diameter dependence of addition reactions to carbon nanotubes
Authors: Müller M. , Maultzsch J. , Wunderlich D. , Hirsch A. , Thomsen C.
Published: August 2008

We present resonant Raman measurements on carbon nanotubes functionalized with primary alkyl groups of different chain length. From the resonance profiles of the radial breathing mode (RBM) we assign the chiral indices of the tubes in order to study the selective reactivity of different tubes. We focus on diameter dependence showing inversely proportional behaviour to diameter for both metallic and semiconducting nanotubes. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Soliton fiber laser mode‐locked by a single‐wall carbon nanotube‐polymer composite
Authors: Wang F. , Rozhin A. G. , Sun Z. , Scardaci V. , White I. H. , Ferrari A. C.
Published: August 2008

We present a detailed investigation of pulse width and spectral dynamics of an Er3+‐doped soliton fiber ring laser, mode‐locked by a carbon‐nanotube‐polymer composite. The laser is stable and produces ∼ 650 fs pulses at a fundamental repetition rate of 20.8 MHz. The carbon nanotube saturable absorber has a low saturation intensity of ∼ 18.9 MW/cm2 and a 16.9% reduction in absorption (due to saturation) at high pulse intensity (∼ 270 MW/cm2). Spectral and transient effects confirm the soliton operation of the laser. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
1H NMR spectrum and spin‐lattice relaxation in C60 · C8H8
Authors: Bokor Mónika , Matus Péter , Bánki Péter , Kriza György , Tompa Kálmán , Kováts Éva , Pekker Sándor , Bényei Gyula , Jalsovszky István
Published: August 2008

We have investigated the rotor‐stator molecular crystal fullerene‐cubane (C60 · C8H8) by 1H NMR spectroscopy in the temperature range of 130 to 380 K. The 1H line is broad and exhibits fine structure characteristic of a multispin spectrum, indicating the absence of angular reorientations of the cubane molecule. The temperature and field dependence of the spin‐lattice relaxation rate of cubane protons is well explained in terms of field fluctuations arising from reorientations of the C60 molecules. Despite the closely packed structure, the activation energy of these reorientations, 650 K, is close to that observed in the high‐temperature phase of pure C60 indicating that the static cubane molecules act as efficient bearing for the rotating fullerene molecules. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Product/process improvement by integrated physical and simulation experiments: a case study in the textile industry
Authors: Masala S. , Pedone P. , Sandigliano M. , Romano D.
Published: August 2008

In hi‐tech industry, such as aerospace and microelectronics, simulation and lab tests are routinely used together in the product/process development phase. However, although design of experiments and computer experiments are sound methodologies for running experiments in physical and numerical settings, respectively, effective integration between the two kinds of investigation in view of product/process improvement and innovation is little explored in the academic literature. This paper presents a broad approach for this purpose. Although the approach is still qualitative, it introduces the various elements of an industrially relevant problem, which is likely to challenge applied statisticians in the near future. The approach is illustrated by its application to a manufacturing process in the textiles. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Bayesian EWMA method to detect jumps at the start‐up phase of a process
Authors: Tsiamyrtzis Panagiotis , Hawkins Douglas M.
Published: August 2008

The start‐up phase data of a process are the spine of traditional SPC charting and testing methods and are usually assumed to be i.i.d. observations from the in‐control distribution. In this work a new method is proposed to model normally distributed start‐up phase data where we allow for serial dependence and randomly occurring unidirectional level shifts of the underlying parameter of interest. The theoretic development is based on a Bayesian sequentially updated EWMA model with normal mixture errors. The new approach makes use of available prior information and provides a framework for drawing decisions and making prediction on line, even with a single observation. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Variation mode and effect analysis: an application to fatigue life prediction
Authors: Johannesson Pär , Svensson Thomas , Samuelsson Leif , Bergman Bo , de Maré Jacques
Published: August 2008

We present an application of the probabilistic branch of variation mode and effect analysis (VMEA) implemented as a first‐order, second‐moment reliability method. First order means that the failure function is approximated to be linear around the nominal values with respect to the main influencing variables, while second moment means that only means and variances are taken into account in the statistical procedure. We study the fatigue life of a jet engine component and aim at a safety margin that takes all sources of prediction uncertainties into account. Scatter is defined as random variation due to natural causes, such as non‐homogeneous material, geometry variation within tolerances, load variation in usage, and other uncontrolled variations. Other uncertainties are unknown systematic errors, such as model errors in the numerical calculation of fatigue life, statistical errors in estimates of parameters, and unknown usage profile. By treating also systematic errors as random variables, the whole safety margin problem is put into a common framework of second‐order statistics. The final estimated prediction variance of the logarithmic life is obtained by summing the variance contributions of all sources of scatter and other uncertainties, and it represents the total uncertainty in the life prediction. Motivated by the central limit theorem, this logarithmic life random variable may be regarded as normally distributed, which gives possibilities to calculate relevant safety margins. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kristallstruktur des Lithium‐Trimethylsilanolats [Li7(OSiMe3)7(THF)]
Authors: Kern Beatrice , Vitze Hannes , Bolte Michael , Wagner Matthias , Lerner Hans‐Wolfram
Published: August 2008

The lithium silanolate LiOSiMe3 is accessible from the reaction of Me3SiOSiMe3 with LiMe in tetrahydrofuran. Single crystals of [Li7(OSiMe3)7(THF)] were obtained from toluene at 25 °C. The structure of [Li7(OSiMe3)7(THF)] (C2/c) features a capped trigonal antiprismatic arrangement of seven Li atoms. The Li atoms in [Li7(OSiMe3)7(THF)] are μ3‐bridged by seven O atoms of the silanolate ligand.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Magnetic Behaviour of Two 1‐D Chain Manganese‐Nitroxide Complexes Bridged by Isophthalate Anions
Authors: Gao Dong‐Zhao , Sun Ya‐Qiu , Liao Dai‐Zheng , Jiang Zong‐Hui , Yan Shi‐Ping
Published: August 2008

Two one‐dimensional (1‐D) chain manganese‐nitroxide complexes {[Mn(NIT4Py)2(ip)(H2O)2]·4H2O}n (1) and [Mn(IM4Py)2(ip)(H2O)2]n (2) (NIT4Py = 2‐(4′‐pyridinyl)‐4,4,5,5‐tetramethylimidazoline‐1‐oxyl‐3‐oxide, IM4Py = 2‐(4′‐pyridinyl)‐4,4,5,5‐tetramethylimidazoline‐1‐oxyl and ip = isophthalate anion) have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analyses, IR spectrum and electronic absorption spectra. Complex 1 was structurally characterized and it crystallizes in neutral 1‐D chains where MnII nitroxide units [Mn(NIT4Py)2(H2O)2] are linked by isophthalate anions. The magnetic measurements show that complex 1 exhibits antiferromagnetic couplings, while complex 2 exhibits ferromagnetic interactions between the MnII ion and the nitroxide radicals.
Syntheses, Structures and Magnetic Behaviours of two Mixed‐Metal Inorganic‐Organic Hybrid Frameworks with N‐(Phosphonomethyl)iminodiacetate
Authors: Gao Yue‐Qiang , Gu Wen , Sun Xiu‐Ping , Liu Xin , Liao Dai‐Zheng
Published: August 2008

Two mixed‐metal‐center inorganic‐organic hybrid frameworks incorporating N‐(Phosphonomethyl)iminodiacetate(H4pmida), [Zn2V2O2(pmida)2(H2O)10]·H2O (1) and [Zn2V2O2(pmida)2(H2O)12]·2H2O (2), were synthesized by hydrothermal reactions and characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectra, UV‐Vis spectra and single crystal X‐ray analysis. In complex 1, the centrosymmetric dimeric [V2O2(pmida)2]4– unit connected to neighboring Zn2+ through the phosphonate group, while 2 the [V2O2(pmida)2]4– unit uncoordinated with the Zn2+ in the presence of NaOH. Magnetic measurements in the range 2‐300 K have shown weak antiferromagnetic interaction between the adjacent vanadium ions in complexes.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of Commensurate Polymorph of Ln4AlCu2B9O23 (Ln=Lu,Ho) and Refinement of Cu2Al6B4O17
Authors: Plachinda P. A. , Belokoneva E. L.
Published: August 2008

Single crystals of new Cu,Lu(Ho)–alumoborate and known Cu,Al–borate were synthesized through reaction between CuB2O4 and LnBO3 on the Al2O3 surface by annealing at 1100 °C. Structure of commensurate modification of Ln4AlCu2B9O23, (Ln = Lu,Ho), sp. gr. $P{\bar 4}2_{1}m$, was solved at room temperature. It was found that a low–temperature (110 K) modification possesses incommensurate modulations with modulation vector q =(0, 0, 0.132). The nonaborate block – [B9O23]19– – 9[6T+3Δ] forms an isolated unique dense closed anionic unit. This block is terminated by Al–tetrahedrons in the chessboard pattern, resulting in formation of complex alumoborate layer [AlB9O23]16–. Apical oxygen of central BO3 triangle of the nonaborate block seems to be the source of modulations observed in low temperature polymorph. Cationic layers with the Ln and Cu atoms are alternating along c axis with anionic layers. The structure Cu2Al6B4O17, previously studied by the Rietveld method, was corroborated by single crystal data and was compared with LiAl7B4O17.
Prognosis of Japanese Breast Cancer Based on Hormone Receptor and HER2 Expression Determined by Immunohistochemical Staining
Authors: Nakajima Hiroo , Fujiwara Ikuya , Mizuta Naruhiko , Sakaguchi Koichi , Hachimine Yasushi , Konishi Eiichi , Yanagisawa Akio , Magae Junji
Published: August 2008

Background

We classified Japanese breast cancer patients based on estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and HER2 protein expression and compared their prognoses.

Methods

We compared the background and prognostic factors of 600 patients with breast cancer who were assigned to the following groups: luminal A (ER + and/or PR + and HER2‐; n = 431; 71.8%), luminal B (ER + and/or PR + and HER2 + ; n = 27; 4.5%), HER2 (ER‐, PR‐, and HER2 + ; n = 39; 6.5%) and basal‐like (BBC; ER‐, PR‐, and HER2‐; n = 103; 17.2%).

Results

Background factors did not significantly differ among the groups. Disease‐free survival rates were significantly lower for the luminal B, HER2, and BBC subtypes than for the luminal A subtype. Cancer tended to recur earlier and overall survival was significantly lower for the BBC than for the luminal A and HER2 subtypes. Overall survival rates for the luminal B, HER2, and luminal A subtypes were comparable.

Conclusions

The subtype distribution for Japanese and Caucasian patients was comparable. The prognosis for the BBC subtype was poorest among all subtypes. Breast cancer tended to recur earlier for the luminal B and HER2 subtypes than for the luminal A subtype; however, overall survival did not significantly differ among them.