bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐Temperature Oxidation Behavior of Solution Precursor Plasma Sprayed Nanoceria Coating on Martensitic Steels
Authors: Viswanathan V. , Filmalter R. , Patil S. , Deshpande S. , Seal S.
Published: February 2007

Solution precursor plasma spray (SPPS) is used to deposit nanoceria coating on a 410 martensitic stainless steel. The process of pyrolysis in converting the cerium nitrate solution to cerium oxide, the microstructure and the surface chemistry is confirmed by thermodynamic calculations, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X‐ray diffraction. Subsequent exposure of the coated steel in atmospheric air to cyclic oxidation at 1000°C revealed excellent corrosion resistance of the steel in presence of the SPPS‐processed nanoceria coating. The formation of the nanostructured (10–100 nm) ceria coating is studied using transmission electron microscopy. Relative Ce4+ and Ce3+ concentration in the coating was determined from XPS high‐resolution spectrum. Cross‐section scanning electron microscopy showed the presence of an impervious nature of the protective layer with reduced scale thickness in the coated‐oxidized sample. After a pre‐oxidation treatment at 1273 K of the coated specimen, the oxidation kinetics showed a significant decrease as compared with the uncoated martensitic steel.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of CdMoO4 Nano‐Particles
Authors: Jiang Xiaohui , Ma Junfeng , Lin Botao , Ren Yang , Liu Jun , Zhu Xiaoyi , Tao Jiantao , Wang Yonggang , Xie Lijin
Published: February 2007

CdMoO4 nano‐particles were successfully synthesized by a hydrothermal process at a low temperature of 90°C, and the powders were characterized in detail by X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and photoluminescent spectra techniques (PL), respectively. CdMoO4 particles could be obtained under the hydrothermal condition from micrometer to nanometer sizes by varying their precursors. The PL spectra results showed that the optical properties of CdMoO4 crystallites obviously relied on their particle sizes.
A Glass‐Ceramic Plate for Mammography
Authors: Johnson Jacqueline A. , Schweizer Stefan , Lubinsky Anthony R.
Published: February 2007

We developed translucent glass‐ceramic image plates for digital mammography. The glass ceramics are based on europium‐doped fluorozirconate glasses, which were additionally doped with chlorine to initiate the nucleation of barium chloride nanoparticles therein. The X‐ray image is stored in the form of stable electron–hole pairs, which can be read out afterwards with a scanning laser beam in a “photostimulated luminescence” (PSL) process. Measurements of the required stimulating exposure, integrated PSL signal, and optical light spreading of the stimulating laser light were performed to allow projection of the detective quantum efficiency (DQE) for the proposed X‐ray storage phosphor system. The projected DQE is compared with commercially available electronic mammography systems.
A Dip‐Coating Process for the Preparation of PZT Microtubes
Authors: Prabhakaran Kuttan , Jayasingh Moses Ebenezer , Raghunath Sooraj , Durgaprasad Chadalapaka , Sharma Suresh Chandra
Published: February 2007

PZT microtubes have been fabricated by dip coating of aqueous PZT powder slurry on vermicelli, followed by burnout of the vermicelli and sintering. The water‐absorbing character of the vermicelli made a thin layer of PZT slurry to gel on its surface during dip coating. Thickness of the gel on the surface of the vermicelli depends on the dipping time. The green PZT layer thickness in the range of 140–190 μm could be achieved for a dipping time of 30–120 s. Microtubes having an inner diameter of nearly 500 μm with wall thickness in the range of 120–160 μm could be prepared by this process.
Stresses and Microstructural Development of Thermal Barrier Coatings Using AIP/D‐gun Two‐Step Processing
Authors: Ke Peiling , Wang Qimin , Hua Weigang , Gong Jun , Sun Chao , Zhou Yanchun
Published: February 2007

After depositing a Ni–32Co–20Cr–8Al–0.5Y–1Si–0.03B (wt%) bond coat on a Ni‐base superalloy using arc ion plating (AIP), a ceramic top coat with hollow spherical powder of ZrO2–8 wt%Y2O3 (HSP–YSZ) was deposited using detonation gun (D‐gun) spraying. Thermal exposure behaviors of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) were investigated at 1100°C. The thermal growth oxides (TGO) layer thickened and became more undulated during thermal exposure. Yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) was observed within TGO, which produced thickness imperfections and thus aided to build up out‐of‐plane stresses. As a result, radial cracks initiated at the defects around TGO imperfections and separation developed through crack nucleation, propagation, and coalescence at the weaker TGO/bond coat interface. With further thermal exposure, coalescence of interfacial separations created a connected crack. The TBC detached and final failure occurred at the TGO/bond coat interface, leading to spallation of TBC when cooling to ambient. The stress distributions in the TGO layer with different thermal exposure times were also measured using luminescence spectroscopy. The stresses were independent of time after a transient period from θ‐Al2O3 to α‐Al2O3 scale. It is suggested that the lifetime of AIP/D‐gun TBCs with an HSP–YSZ coat is controlled by the initiation and linking of a sub‐critical interfacial crack.
Chromium‐Doped Forsterite Nanoparticle Synthesis by Flame Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Tani Takao , Saeki Shu , Suzuki Takenobu , Ohishi Yasutake
Published: February 2007

Synthesis of chromium‐doped forsterite (Mg2SiO4:Cr) nanoparticles by flame spray pyrolysis (FSP) was investigated. The morphology, crystalline phase, and photoluminescence of the products were evaluated. Crystalline Mg2SiO4:Cr nanoparticles of several 10 nm in diameter were obtained, although a small amount of the submicrometer‐sized particles and the unreacted MgO phase existed. The product powder showed electron‐spin resonance signals from Cr4+ and photoluminescence typical for Cr4+ in Mg2SiO4, suggesting that a part of the Cr4+ ions were incorporated into Si4+ sites by FSP. On the other hand, the effects of excess SiO2 addition on the structural and optical characteristics of Mg2SiO4:Cr were examined. Addition of excess SiO2 up to 20 mol% did not influence these characteristics of the products. Further addition of excess SiO2 (60–100 mol%) enhanced the formation of the amorphous phase and resulted in the emission from Cr3+ in the amorphous phase in addition to an emission from Cr4+ in Mg2SiO4.
Differentiating Human Bone from Animal Bone: A Review of Histological Methods
Authors: Hillier Maria L. , Bell Lynne S.
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT:This review brings together a complex and extensive literature to address the question of whether it is possible to distinguish human from nonhuman bone using the histological appearance of cortical bone. The mammalian species included are rat, hare, badger, racoon dog, cat, dog, pig, cow, goat, sheep, deer, horse, water buffalo, bear, nonhuman primates, and human and are therefore not exhaustive, but cover those mammals that may contribute to a North American or Eurasian forensic assemblage. The review has demonstrated that differentiation of human from certain nonhuman species is possible, including small mammals exhibiting Haversian bone tissue and large mammals exhibiting plexiform bone tissue. Pig, cow, goat, sheep, horse, and water buffalo exhibit both plexiform and Haversian bone tissue and where only Haversian bone tissue exists in bone fragments, differentiation of these species from humans is not possible. Other primate Haversian bone tissue is also not distinguishable from humans. Where differentiation using Haversian bone tissue is undertaken, both the general microstructural appearance and measurements of histological structures should be applied. Haversian system diameter and Haversian canal diameter are the most optimal and diagnostic measurements to use. Haversian system density may be usefully applied to provide an upper and lower limit for humans.
Intentional Mixed Buccal Cell Reference Sample in a Paternity Case*
Authors: Martinez‐Gonzalez Luis J. , Lorente Jose A. , Martinez‐Espin Esther , Carlos Alvarez J. , Lorente Miguel , Villanueva Enrique , Budowle Bruce
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: We report a case where an alleged father (AF) attempted to substitute someone else's saliva sample for his reference sample in a paternity analysis. Buccal cells were collected from the AF and the child, and DNA analysis was performed using an autosomal STR loci (Identifiler®). The profile from the AF showed extra peaks in some loci, as well as a much higher “X” allele peak relative to the “Y” allele peak at the amelogenin locus. After conducting reanalysis by another technician with another set of positive and negative controls, it was concluded that the only source of the mixed profile was by intentional introduction by the AF, at the time of sampling, of some foreign human biological material, most likely saliva from a woman. Owing to the inconclusive results, when the AF was called back to the lab and the peculiar results were explained to him, he admitted that he had introduced into his mouth saliva from another person in an attempt to be excluded as the father of the child. Although tampering with DNA reference samples is not common, some individuals may attempt to contaminate or otherwise adulterate specimens before DNA tests. Personnel responsible for sampling should be aware of this possibility and should try to establish procedures to avoid the problem.
Cross‐Sectional Anthropometric Study of the External Ear
Authors: Meijerman Lynn , Van Der Lugt Cor , Maat George J.R.
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: This cross‐sectional anthropometric study was aimed at estimating expansion of the external ear during adult life, in order to evaluate the extent to which anatomical features appearing in earprints may vary with time. A review of the literature was provided. Data extracted from photographed ears of 1353 subjects were analyzed. The effect of age on auricle length, earlobe length, and auricle width was explored using univariate analyses of variance. The regression coefficients of age on these dimensions were, respectively, 0.178, 0.115, and 0.073 mm/yr for males, and 0.162, 0.100, and 0.073 mm/year for females (p=0.000). Regression coefficients of age corrected for stature were assumed to be less accurate. Anthelix prominence and helix width were analyzed using data of 175 subjects, and appeared unaffected by age. As lobe expansion appeared to exceed the estimated cartilage expansion, it was assumed that particularly the imprint of the lobe would be less stable with time.
Association of Age and Sex With Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Insulin Sensitivity in Overweight Children and Adolescents
Authors: Koenigsberg Joanna , Boyd Gillian S. , Gidding Samuel S. , Hassink Sandra G. , Falkner Bonita
Published: February 2007

To determine the effect of age and sex on cardiovascular risk factor expression in overweight children, data from clinical records of 497 overweight children (2–18 years of age) were examined. Data included average blood pressure (BP), fasting lipids, glucose, and insulin. The sample was stratified by age (younger than 11 and 11 years and older) and analyzed by sex. Subjects with an average BP ≥90th percentile were classified as having high BP. Insulin and glucose were used in equations to estimate insulin sensitivity. Among subjects 11 years and older (n=268), 52.6% of males had high BP compared with 32.6% of females (P<.001). Mean high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol was lowest in the males 11 years and older compared with the females and younger males (P<.01). Triglyceride levels trended higher in males independent of age. In multivariate analyses, high BP was most strongly associated with age and severity of overweight while triglyceride level was most associated with sex and insulin resistance. The prevalence of high BP and dyslipidemia in overweight children is high. Overweight males 11 years and older have a higher prevalence of high BP and low high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol than females and younger males. Greater cardiovascular risk factor expression in overweight males 11 years and older may explain the earlier appearance of cardiovascular disease end points in overweight men.
Weight, the Metabolic Syndrome, and Coronary Heart Disease in Type 2 Diabetes: Associations Among a National French Sample of Adults With Diabetes—The ENTRED Study
Authors: Hillier Teresa A. , Fosse Sandrine , Balkau Beverley , Simon Dominique , Eschwège Eveline , Fagot‐Campagna Anne
Published: February 2007

The authors examined whether obesity alone or as part of the metabolic syndrome (MS) increases coronary heart disease (CHD) risk in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among 2970 adults aged 30–79 years in a French national sample. MS was defined as T2DM plus self‐report of 2 or more of the following: body mass index >30 kg/m2, diagnosed hypertension, or diagnosed dyslipidemia. A subsample with physician‐reported data (n =841) was further classified with measured hypertension and dyslipidemia. Weight distribution included normal (21%), overweight (42%), and obese (37%). A 20% increased odds of CHD was estimated for every 5‐kg/m2 body mass index increase (P=.0001). MS was associated with a more than 2‐fold higher risk of CHD compared with T2DM without MS (P<.0001, multivariate‐adjusted [both samples]). With MS stratified by high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (<1.5 vs ≥1.5 mmol/L), compared with no MS, the odds ratio for CHD was 2.8 (normal‐level high‐density lipoprotein MS; 95% confidence interval, 1.8–4.5) and 1.5 (high‐level high‐density lipoprotein MS; 95% confidence interval, 0.8–2.9). The authors suggest that obesity alone—and particularly when the MS is present—increases CHD risk in patients with T2DM. High levels of high‐density lipoprotein may modify this relationship.
Dyslipidemia in the Metabolic Syndrome in Children
Authors: Gidding Samuel S.
Published: February 2007

The high triglyceride/low high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol phenotype is a component of the metabolic syndrome. The obesity epidemic has increased the prevalence of this abnormality. Recognition of this dyslipidemia is increasingly common in pediatric practice. Treatment includes weight management, including the prevention of future excess weight gain, and exercise. Pharmacologic management is rarely required.
Noninvasive Assessment of Target Organ Injury in Children With the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Urbina Elaine
Published: February 2007

The prevalence of overweight has increased sharply since the 1980s, with morbid obesity rising at an even higher rate. Comorbidities related to adiposity now consume almost 10% of all US health care dollars. Unfortunately, overweight children already demonstrate elevations in cardiovascular risk factors. These children are extremely likely to remain obese in adulthood and are likely to progress to diabetes and heart and kidney diseases. It is not surprising, therefore, that the diagnosis of the metabolic syndrome is being made with increasing frequency in American adolescents. The authors show that noninvasive methods are now available to measure target organ damage related to obesity and the metabolic syndrome in children. They explore the data linking the cardiovascular risk factors that cluster as the metabolic syndrome to early subclinical atherosclerotic change such as left ventricular hypertrophy, carotid intima—media thickness, vascular function abnormalities, and microalbuminuria. Evidence for the benefits of treatment and guidelines for the assessment for target organ damage in children are provided.
Epidermal keratinocytes as the forefront of the sensory system
Authors: Denda Mitsuhiro , Nakatani Masashi , Ikeyama Kazuyuki , Tsutsumi Moe , Denda Sumiko
Published: February 2007

Abstract  Various sensors that respond to physical or chemical environmental factors have been identified in the peripheral nervous system. Some of them, which respond to mechanical stress, osmotic pressure, temperature and chemical stimuli (such as pH), are also expressed in epidermal keratinocytes. Neurotransmitters and their receptors, as well as receptors that regulate the neuroendocrine system of the skin, are also present in keratinocytes. Thus, broadly speaking, epidermal keratinocytes appear to be equipped with sensing systems similar to those of the peripheral and central nervous systems. It had long been considered that only nerve C‐terminals in the epidermis play a role in skin surface perception. However, building on earlier work on skin receptors and new findings introduced here, we present in this review a novel hypothesis of skin sensory perception, i.e. first, keratinocytes recognize various environmental factors, and then the information is processed and conveyed to the nervous system.
Expression patterns of programmed cell death 4 protein in normal human skin and some representative skin lesions
Authors: Matsuhashi Sachiko , Narisawa Yutaka , Ozaki Iwata , Mizuta Toshihiko
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  Expression of a tumor suppressor gene, programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4), was investigated at the protein level in the human skin. Immunohistochemically, PDCD4 protein expressed mainly in suprabasal layers, while PDCD4‐positive and ‐negative areas were observed discontinuously in the basal cell layer of the epidermis. In hair follicles, the suprabulbar area including the hair and inner root sheath was immunoreactive, while the bulbar area, containing germinative cells which were strongly proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)‐positive, was not or less. PDCD4 therefore appears to be important in the differentiation of hair follicles. PDCD4‐positive cells were localized in the inside layers while PCNA‐positive cells were located in the basal layer in the outer root sheath of hair follicles. The cells of sebaceous glands and sweat glands also were PDCD4‐positive. The PDCD4 protein was localized mostly in nuclei of cutaneous cells. PDCD4 expression was found to be suppressed in the epidermis overlying an adult T‐cell lymphoma (ATL), possibly reflecting a paracrine effect of factors produced by ATL cells. PDCD4 expression was suppressed in the keratinocyte cell line HaCaT by exposure of cultures to epidermal growth factor, transforming growth factor‐β1 or hepatocyte growth factor. Immunohistochemically, various skin cancers tended to show less PDCD4 expression than normal skin. Promotion of expression might prove useful in preventing or treating certain skin cancers.
Rapid, high‐quality and epidermal‐specific isolation of RNA from human skin
Authors: Trost Andrea , Bauer Johann W. , Lanschützer Christoph , Laimer Martin , Emberger Michael , Hintner Helmut , Önder Kamil
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  As global transcriptome analyses with a growing demand on layer‐specific applications are widely used in cutaneous biology, we investigated the effect of established and optimized dermo‐epidermal separation methods on the quality of RNA. We compared enzymatic separation with dispase, chemical separation with 1 m sodium chloride and heat separation to a treatment with 3.8% ammonium thioyanate. The impact of freezing as well as the addition of 10 mm aurintricarboxylic acid was considered in the evaluation of the amount and quality of isolated RNA from dermis and epidermis. Using the low abundant gene kallikrein 12 for real‐time PCR analysis, we were able to demonstrate the superior RNA quality after dermo‐epidermal separation using 3.8% ammonium thiocyanate. In addition to the time effectiveness this separation technique promises dermal and epidermal purity and is therefore the method of choice for producing high‐quality RNA for genome‐wide dermal and epidermal transcriptional analysis.
Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization in the study of human skin melanocytes
Authors: Passeron Thierry , Coelho Sergio G. , Miyamura Yoshinori , Takahashi Kaoruko , Hearing Vincent J.
Published: February 2007

Although keratinocytes are the most numerous type of cell in the skin, melanocytes are also key players as they produce and distribute melanin that protects the skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In vitro experiments on melanocytic cell lines are useful to study melanogenesis and their progression towards melanoma. However, interactions of melanocytes with keratinocytes and with other types of cells in the skin, such as fibroblasts and Langerhans cells, are also crucial. We describe two techniques, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and tissue in situ hybridization (TISH), that can be used to identify and study melanocytes in the skin and their responses to UV or other stimuli in situ. We describe a practical method to localize melanocytic antigens on formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue sections and in frozen sections using indirect immunofluorescence with conjugated secondary antibodies. In addition, we detail the use of TISH and its combination with IHC to study mRNA levels of genes expressed in the skin at cellular resolution. This methodology, along with relevant tips and troubleshooting items, are important tools to identify and study melanocytes in the skin.
Nucleocytoplasmic Trafficking Is Required for Functioning of the Adaptor Protein Sla1p in Endocytosis
Authors: Gardiner Fiona C. , Costa Rosaria , Ayscough Kathryn R.
Published: February 2007

Dual localization of proteins at the plasma membrane and within the nucleus has been reported in mammalian cells. Among these proteins are those involved in cell adhesion structures and in clathrin‐mediated endocytosis. In the case of endocytic proteins, trafficking to the nucleus is not known to play a role in their endocytic function. Here, we show localization of the yeast endocytic adaptor protein Sla1p to the nucleus as well as to the cell cortex and we demonstrate the importance of specific regions of Sla1p for this nuclear localization. A role for specific karyopherins (importins and exportins) in Sla1p nuclear localization is revealed. Furthermore, endocytosis of Sla1p‐dependent cargo is defective in three strains with karyopherin mutations. Finally, we investigate possible functions for nuclear trafficking of endocytic proteins. Our data reveal for the first time that nuclear transport of endocytic proteins is important for functional endocytosis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We determine the mechanism, involving an α/β importin pair, that facilitates uptake of Sla1p and demonstrate that nuclear transport is required for the functioning of Sla1p during endocytosis.
C‐Terminal Prenylation of the CLN3 Membrane Glycoprotein Is Required for Efficient Endosomal Sorting to Lysosomes
Authors: Storch Stephan , Pohl Sandra , Quitsch Arne , Falley Katrin , Braulke Thomas
Published: February 2007

Mutations in the polytopic lysosomal membrane glycoprotein CLN3 result in a severe neurodegenerative disorder. Previous studies identified two cytosolic signal structures contributing to lysosomal targeting. We now examined the role of glycosylation and the C‐terminal CAAX motif in lysosomal transport of CLN3 in non‐neuronal and neuronal cells. Mutational analysis revealed that in COS7 cells, CLN3 is glycosylated at asparagine residues 71 and 85. Both partially and non‐glycosylated CLN3 were transported correctly to lysosomes. Mevalonate incorporation and farnesyltransferase inhibitor studies indicate that CLN3 is prenylated most likely at cysteine 435. Substitution of cysteine 435 reduced the steady‐state level of CLN3 in lysosomes most likely because of impaired sorting in early endosomal structures, particularly in neuronal cells. Additionally, the cell surface expression of CLN3 was increased in the presence of farnesyltransferase inhibitors. Alteration of the spacing between the transmembrane domain and the CAAX motif or the substitution of the entire C‐terminal domain of CLN3 with cytoplasmic tails of mannose 6‐phosphate receptors have demonstrated the importance of the C‐terminal domain of proper length and composition for exit of the endoplasmic reticulum. The data suggest that co‐operative signal structures in different cytoplasmic domains of CLN3 are required for efficient sorting and for transport to the lysosome.
Characterization of the Macrophage‐Stimulating Activity from Ureaplasma urealyticum
Authors: Peltier Morgan R. , Freeman Angela. J. , Mu Hong H. , Cole Barry C.
Published: February 2007

Problem

Intra‐amniotic infection is the most common cause of preterm labor. Infections are thought to cause preterm labor by increasing the production of proinflammatory cytokines at the maternal–fetal interface. Experiments with cell culture and animal models have indicated that bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) increases the production of proinflammatory cytokines in reproductive tissues. The majority of intrauterine infections, however, are associated with Ureaplasma urealyticum, which does not contain LPS. Therefore, we performed a series of experiments to understand better the bacterial factor(s) that are responsible for the proinflammatory effects of U. urealyticum.

Method of study

U. urealyticum was cultivated in 3–4 L 10B broth, harvested by centrifugation, washed with saline and frozen at −85°C until use. Cells were then extracted with Triton X‐114 and the macrophage‐stimulating activity (MSA) of the preparations was studied by evaluating their ability to stimulate tumor necrosis factor‐α production by a monocytic cell line (THP‐1 cells). Additional studies involved testing the sensitivity of the detergent extracts to heating, alkaline hydrolysis and proteinase K digestion. Interaction of Triton X‐114 extracts with Toll‐like receptor (TLR)‐2 and TLR‐4 was evaluated using cell lines transfected with one of these receptors, CD14 and a reporter gene.

Results

Extraction of U. urealyticum with Triton X‐114 demonstrated that the MSA preferentially partitioned to the detergent phase. The MSA of the detergent extracts was abrogated by proteinase K digestion or alkaline hydrolysis but only partially inhibited by heating. Further studies suggested that the detergent extracts could activate both TLR‐2 and TLR‐4.

Conclusion

These experiments suggest that the MSA of U. urealyticum is lipophillic, sensitive to alkaline hydrolysis and proteinase K digestion, partially sensitive to heating. These properties are consistent with the activity being due to a lipoprotein. Unlike other Mycoplasma species, the MSA of U. urealyticum appears to interact with both TLR‐2 and TLR‐4. Purification of the molecule(s) that regulate this activity may provide good therapeutic targets for anti‐inflammatory strategies to prevent preterm labor caused by intrauterine infection with U. urealyticum.
The Relationship of Systemic TNF‐α and IFN‐γ with IVF Treatment Outcome and Peripheral Blood NK Cells
Authors: Thum Meen‐Yau , Abdalla Hossam I. , Bhaskaran Shree , Harden Emily L. , Ford Brian , Sumar Nazira , Shehata Hassan , Bansal Amolak
Published: February 2007

Background

To evaluate the association of serum tumour necrotic factor (TNF)‐α and interferon (IFN)‐γ levels with IVF treatment outcome and peripheral blood NK cells.

Methods

Prospective observational study of 126 randomly selected women who underwent IVF treatment. The serum levels of TNF‐α and IFN‐γ were determined by multiplex suspension beads array system.

Results

There were no significant differences with regard to the systemic TNF‐α and IFN‐γ levels between the pregnant (n = 51, TNF‐α: 53.5 pg/mL; IFN‐γ: 4.6 pg/mL) and not pregnant (n = 75, TNF‐α: 63.0; IFN‐γ: 7.5) women after IVF treatment. For those women with a positive pregnancy after IVF treatment, the systemic TNF‐α and IFN‐γ levels were higher in those women who miscarried (n = 13, TNF‐α: 67.4; IFN‐γ: 9.1) when compared with those who had a live birth (n = 38, TNF‐α: 48.7; IFN‐γ: 1.4), however this difference was not statistically significant. Interestingly, the systemic TNF‐α and IFN‐γ levels were significantly higher in women who had a higher level of activated (CD69+) NK cells (n = 39, TNF‐α: 86.8; IFN‐γ: 4.7) when compared with women who had a low level of activated NK cells (n = 87, TNF‐α: 46.9; IFN‐γ: 1.7 P = 0.028 and 0.045 respectively).

Conclusion

The systemic levels of TNF‐α and IFN‐γ have no association with implantation rate or miscarriage rate in women undergoing IVF treatment. However, high levels of TNF‐α and IFN‐γ are associated with elevated levels of activated NK cells and this may subsequently exert a negative impact on reproduction.
Expression of Inducible Microsomal Prostaglandin E Synthase in Local Lesions of Endometriosis Patients
Authors: Chishima Fumihisa , Hayakawa Satoshi , Yamamoto Tatsuo , Sugitani Masahiko , Karasaki‐Suzuki Miki , Sugita Kenji , Nemoto Norimichi
Published: February 2007

Problem

Recently, an inducible microsomal human prostaglandin E synthase (mPGES) was identified. This enzyme converts the cyclooxygenase (COX) product, prostaglandin (PG) H2, to PGE2, an eicosanoid linked to carcinogenesis. Although elevated levels of PGE2 have been observed in many tumor types including colorectal adenomas and cancers, its role in the pathophysiology of endometriosis is unknown. We previously reported increased expression of COX‐2 messenger RNA (mRNA) in local lesions of endometriosis. To further elucidate the mechanism responsible for the elevated levels of PGE2 in endometriosis, we examined the expression levels of mPGES.

Method of study

Samples were obtained from 28 patients, fixed in formalin, and embedded in paraffin for immunohistochemical analysis. We examined the expression of mPGES mRNA in seven cases by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction using total RNA extracted from frozen samples.

Results

Immunohistochemistry revealed increased mPGES immunoreactivity in endometriosis samples compared with eutopic endometria. Microsomal PGES immunoreactivity was observed in both epithelial cells and stromal or inflammatory cells of endometriosis. Increased expression of mPGES‐1 mRNA was detected in most of the endometriosis samples.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that expression of mPGES in addition to COX‐2 plays a role in increasing PGE2 production in endometriosis.
Early Twentieth‐Century British Women Travellers to Greece: Contextualizing the Example of Virginia Woolf
Authors: Klironomos Martha
Published: February 2007

This paper forms part of a Literature Compass cluster of articles which examines the current state of Virgina Woolf Studies and aims to provide a snapshot of the field. Urmila Seshagiri (University of Tennessee) and Rishona Zimring (Lewis and Clark College) first provide an introduction for this paper along with Thaine Stearns's article, ‘“Others Wanted to Travel”: Woolf and “America Herself”.’ The full text of Martha Klironomos's piece then follows.

These papers grew out of the 15th Annual International Virginia Woolf Conference (College of Lewis and Clark, Portland, OR, June 9–12, 2005).

The full cluster is made up of the following articles:

‘Introduction: Virginia Woolf and The Art of Exploration,’ Urmila Seshagiri and Rishona Zimring, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00393.x

‘Virginia Woolf's Sense of Adventure,’ Maria DiBattista, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00394.x

‘The Twentieth Part: Virginia Woolf in the British Museum Reading Room,’ Benjamin Harvey, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00395.x

‘“Street Haunting”: Phantasmagorias of the Modern Imperial Metropolis,’ Sara Gerend, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00396.x

‘Hyde Park Gate News,’ Gill Lowe, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00397.x

‘The Art of “Scene‐Making” in the Charleston Bulletin Supplements,’ Claudia Olk, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00398.x

‘A Camera of Her Own: Woolf and the Legacy of the Indomitable Mrs. Cameron,’ Emily Setina, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00399.x

‘Woolfian Resonances,’ Anne Fernald, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00400.x

‘Early Twentieth‐Century British Women Travellers to Greece: Contextualizing the Example of Virginia Woolf,’ Martha Klironomos, Literature Compass 4 (2007), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00401.x

‘“Others Wanted to Travel”: Woolf and “America Herself”,’ Thaine Stearns, Literature Compass 4 (2007), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00402.x
Recruiting older participants to a randomised trial of a community‐based fall prevention program
Authors: Clemson Lindy , Taylor Kirsty , Kendig Hal , Cumming Robert G , Swann Megan
Published: February 2007

Objectives: To describe the effectiveness of recruitment strategies used for a randomised trial of a fall prevention program.

Methods: Community‐residing persons (n = 310) aged 70 years or older and at risk of falling were recruited using promotional materials, health professional referrals, media, community presentations, mail outs, and friends/relatives. Mail and telephone recruitment strategies were able to be compared to actual recruitment yields, with costs reported for each.

Results: Mail outs by organisations had response rates between 3.1 and 7.7%, with recruitment yields between 1.8 and 4.4%. Local media editorials were low cost and useful. Gender and physical status of participants varied according to the recruitment method, with multisources producing a reasonably representative sample.

Conclusions: Databases and mail outs using personalised letters were the most effective recruitment strategies for a community‐based preventive program. This study contributes to the expanding evidence of the kinds of recruitment that are more effective, considering the context of the study and the intervention.
Development of the interpersonal dependency scale for older adults
Authors: Gardner Deborah , Helmes Edward
Published: February 2007

Objectives: This research developed a new, theory‐based measure of interpersonal dependency for use with older adults.

Methods: Group discussions were facilitated with older people along with input from a group of allied health workers to assist with the initial item selection process. Then, based on Bornstein's interactive theory of dependency, 85 items were selected for distribution to two random samples of 350 people, aged 65–90 years, from two Perth organisations (the Silver Chain Nursing Association and the Positive Ageing Foundation of Australia).

Results: Using item‐total correlations, the 85‐item scale was reduced to a highly reliable, short (20‐item) screening tool. Coefficient alphas ranged from 0.92–0.94.

Conclusions: The new interpersonal dependency measure will assist further research in the area of older adult dependency. In addition, if used as a screening tool by home‐care agencies it has the potential to inform interventions.
Older Indigenous Australians: their integral role in culture and community
Authors: Warburton Jeni , Chambers Briana
Published: February 2007

This review explores the social and cultural roles played by older Indigenous Australians within their communities. In the absence of a body of conventional academic literature on this topic, we used a broad range of sources including stories, articles, videos, and other narratives to present the lived experiences of older Indigenous Australians illustrated in their own words. The intention is to move beyond the usual negative focus of reporting the significant health and social problems experienced by older Indigenous Australians, whilst still recognising that their present‐day roles within the society have to be understood against a backdrop of such lifetime disadvantage. The major underlying theme of this review is the crucial roles played by older Indigenous people and how these roles have adapted over time to contemporary circumstances. Roles include kinship relationships, support for the young, transmission of cultural knowledge, as well as the key concept of respect for older people as ‘survivors’.
Molecular genetic analysis of porcine mannose‐binding lectin genes, MBL1 and MBL2, and their association with complement activity
Authors: Phatsara C. , Jennen D. G. J. , Ponsuksili S. , Murani E. , Tesfaye D. , Schellander K. , Wimmers K.
Published: February 2007

Mannose‐binding lectin (MBL) mediates activation of the complement system via the lectin pathway. Two forms of MBL, MBL‐A and MBL‐C, were characterized in rodents, rabbits, bovine and rhesus monkeys, whereas only one form was identified in humans, chimpanzees and chickens. The two forms are encoded by two distinct genes named MBL1 and MBL2, which have been identified in many species including the pig. In this report, we studied the two porcine genes MBL1 and MBL2. The porcine MBL genes had higher identities to bovine rather than primate and rodent sequences. Both genes were assigned to chromosome 14 by radiation hybrid panel and linkage mapping. Both MBL genes were highly expressed in liver. MBL1 was also found to be expressed in the lung, testis and brain, whereas low expression of MBL2 was detected in the testis and kidney. New single nucleotide polymorphisms of porcine MBL2 gene were found and genotyped in an experimental F2 pig population, together with a previously reported SNP of MBL1. MBL1 genotypes differed in C3c serum concentration, i.e. in vivo complement activity, at P < 0.1. Correspondingly, linkage analysis revealed a quantitative trait locus for C3c serum level close to the position of the MBL genes. The study thus promotes the porcine MBL genes as functional and positional candidate gene for complement activity.
A Model for Caregiving of Adopted Children After Institutionalization
Authors: Gribble Karleen D.
Published: February 2007

TOPIC:  Optimizing caregiving for newly adopted postinstitutionalized children.

PURPOSE:  To consider a template of care for postinstitutionalized children based on experiences that physiological measures suggest are expected by infants postbirth.

SOURCES:  Published literature and clinical experience.

CONCLUSION:  Based on an understanding of physiologically expected care postbirth, special care for postinstitutionalized adopted children might include: close physical contact via use of a sling and cosleeping; breastfeeding or nurturing through food; and responsive caregiving. In replicating earlier missed experiences, parents may assist emotional development in their child and promote attachment development.
Effects of surface treatments on hexagonal InN films grown on sapphire substrates
Authors: Cao L. , Xie Z. L. , Liu B. , Xiu X. Q. , Zhang R. , Zheng Y. D.
Published: February 2007

Effects of surface treatments with (NH4)2Sx, HCl, and Ar+ bombardment on InN have been investigated using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Auger electron spectroscopy. There was no evident influence on InN with only HCl treatment. The treatment with (NH4)2Sx effectively eliminated the oxygen on the InN surface and prevented the surface oxidation due to passivation [the sulfur from (NH4)2Sx probably bonded with In atoms]. Ar+ treatment effectively removed the oxygen and carbon contaminations, but resulted in a large amount of N vacancies. The concentration of N vacancies of InN is closely related to the Ar+ beam current density afforded by an InN film, and a model was introduced to give an explanation.
Photon-beam lithography reaches 12.5nm half-pitch resolution
Authors: Solak Harun H. , Ekinci Yasin , Käser Philipp , Park Sunggook
Published: February 2007

We have printed dense line/space patterns with half-pitches as small as 12.5nm in a negative-tone calixarene resist using extreme ultraviolet (EUV) interference lithography. The EUV interference setup which is based on transmission diffraction gratings is illuminated with spatially coherent radiation from a synchrotron source. The results show the extendibility of EUV lithography to printing features measuring less than 15nm in size. We discuss the potential impact of effects such as photoelectron blur and shot noise in high-resolution EUV lithography.
Characterization of the feature-size dependence in Ar∕Cl2 chemically assisted ion beam etching of InP-based photonic crystal devices
Authors: Berrier A. , Mulot M. , Anand S. , Talneau A. , Ferrini R. , Houdré R.
Published: February 2007

The authors address feature-size dependence in Ar∕Cl2 chemically assisted ion beam etching (CAIBE) in the context of the fabrication of photonic crystal (PhC) structures. They systematically investigate the influence of various parameters such as hole diameter (115–600nm), etch duration (10–60min), and ion beam energy (300–600eV) on PhC etching in InP with Ar∕Cl2 CAIBE. For a 60min etching at an Ar-ion energy of 400eV, the authors report an etch depth of 5μm for hole diameters d larger than 300nm; the etch depth is in excess of 3μm for d larger than 200nm. The evolution of roughness at the bottom of the etched holes and its dependence on hole size and etching conditions is discussed. The physical mechanism of the observed feature-size dependent etching (FSDE) is then discussed and the effect of the process parameters is qualitatively understood using a model combining the effect of ion sputtering and surface chemical reactions. Finally, the effect of FSDE on the PhC optical properties is assessed by measuring the quality factor of one-dimensional Fabry-Pérot PhC cavities. The measured quality factors show a clear trend with the etch depth: the cavity Q increases as the etch depth increases.
Control of micro- and nanopatterns of octadecyltrimethoxysilane monolayers using nanoimprint lithography and atmospheric chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Ressier Laurence , Martin Christel , Viallet Benoît , Grisolia Jérémie , Peyrade Jean-Pierre
Published: February 2007

Octadecyltrimethoxysilane (OTMS) self-assembled monolayers have been grafted on micrometric and nanometric areas of SiO2∕Si substrates using a process combining nanoimprint lithography and atmospheric chemical vapor deposition. The optimization of the process has lead to monolayer square patterns of OTMS with lateral sizes ranging from 2μm down to 50nm. Their coverage uniformity extends on several square millimeters. Their coverage density can be accurately tuned by the deposition time.
Transport mechanisms and the effects of organic layer thickness on the performance of organic Schottky diodes
Authors: Huang Chun-Yuan , Lin Shih-Yen , Cheng Shiau-Shin , Chou Shu-Ting , Yang Chuan-Yi , Ou Tzu-Min , Wu Meng-Chyi , Chan I-Min , Chan Yi-Jen
Published: February 2007

Experimental results of static and dynamic characteristics for single-layer hole-only devices based on copper phthalcyanine (CuPc) and pentacene are observed in this article. The contribution to injection currents from electrode has been investigated by varying the thickness of the organic film. From the observation of current density versus bias voltage (J-V) characteristics, it is concluded that the space-charge-limited conductivity is the dominant transport mechanism for the organic Schottky diodes. Accordingly, an increase of the organic layer thickness will increase the trapping energy level. However, even with the thin CuPc film down to 50nm, the dynamic cut-off frequency of the device is still limited to 150Hz. Low hole mobility and large active area of the device are responsible for the phenomenon. Dramatic enhancement of cut-off frequency up to 11kHz can be obtained for the pentacene-based Schottky diodes.
Void-free low-temperature silicon direct-bonding technique using plasma activation
Authors: Ma Xiaobo , Liu Weili , Song Zhitang , Li Wei , Lin Chenglu
Published: February 2007

A low-temperature silicon direct-bonding technique has been researched using variant plasma (N2, O2, Ar, and H∕He) pretreatment prior to bonding for surface activation. In plasma bonding, after annealing at 300°C for an hour the authors get a bonding energy of about 2–2.5J∕m2, which is near the fracture strength of bulk silicon. In Si–Si wafer bonding, our experiments demonstrate that the origin of voids appearing in low-temperature annealing is related to the plasma variety and activation conditions. The authors believe that the annealing voids and bubbles, which appear and accumulate at the microdefects, are caused by plasma activation. They used an optimized O2 and H∕He plasma-activation process for wafer direct bonding and obtained a high surface energy, void-free hydrophilic Si–Si wafer bonding. The wafers’ root-mean-square surface roughness after plasma activation was measured by an atomic force microscope. The cross-sectional image of the bonding interface was observed by a scanning electron microscope. Compared with the standard wet-chemical surface treatment that requires high-temperature annealing (>1000°C), both the low-temperature and shorter time annealing using plasma pretreatment are suitable for the microelectromechanical systems manufacture process and wafer-scale packaging.
Real-time sensing and metrology for atomic layer deposition processes and manufacturing
Authors: Henn-Lecordier Laurent , Lei Wei , Anderle Mariano , Rubloff Gary W.
Published: February 2007

In situ quadrupole mass spectrometry (QMS) has been integrated to an atomic layer deposition (ALD) reactor to achieve real-time chemical diagnostic and wafer-state metrology. The process investigated was tungsten ALD using WF6 and SiH4. The UHV-based substrate-heated ALD reactor incorporated a minireactor chamber to simulate the small reaction volume anticipated for manufacturing tools in order to achieve adequate throughput. Mass spectrometry revealed essential surface reaction dynamics through real-time signals associated with by-product generation as well as reactant introduction and depletion for each ALD half-cycle. The by-product QMS signal was then integrated in real time over each exposure and plotted against process cycle number to directly observe ALD film growth, leading to two valuable metrologies. First, the integrated by-product QMS value changes with cycle number, directly reflecting the nucleation kinetics. Specifically, QMS values increase with cycle number during the nucleation phase and then saturates as the film growth enters its steady-state growth phase. Second, summing the integrated by-product QMS signals over an entire deposition run provides an immediate measure of film thickness. The growth kinetics as measured by QMS is consistent with ex situ film characterization and is strongly dependent on process conditions and reactor chamber status. In the latter case, a clear first wafer effect was apparent when the system was left idle for a few hours, resulting in an apparent QMS signal difference during nucleation phase between the first wafer and nonfirst wafer cases. The dependence of QMS signals on chamber status is attributed to parallel reactions on the chamber wall, where different gas exposure history is encountered. The first wafer effect can be explained in a quantitative manner by considering the chamber wall as an additional wafer inside the ALD reactor. The first wafer effects can be reduced by proper preprocess treatment, and the linear correlation between QMS measurement and film thickness suggests a promising start for QMS-based ALD film thickness metrology.
Influence of base additives on the reaction-diffusion front of model chemically amplified photoresists
Authors: Vogt Bryan D. , Kang Shuhui , Prabhu Vivek M. , Rao Ashwin , Lin Eric K. , Wu Wen-li , Satija Sushil K. , Turnquest Karen
Published: February 2007

The effects of amine base quencher on the photoacid catalyzed deprotection reaction-diffusion front in model photoresists were measured by combination of neutron reflectivity and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Modulation in the location of the base with respect to the diffusing photoacid catalyst changes the spatial reaction extent and illuminates the complex role of the base on the shape of the reaction-diffusion front. Despite similar total extents of reaction, a comparison between uniform base and model photodegradable base distributions demonstrates distinct reaction time and base concentration effects on the deprotection profile shape. These differences arise from the modification of the initial deprotection extent due to both the neutralization of the photoacid and the influence of the changing photoresist composition on the reaction-diffusion process. The use of the model photodegradable base results in a sharper front due to these effects. Lastly, aqueous hydroxide development of these latent images demonstrates a limit to the improvement in feature quality obtained from sharpening of the deprotection profile with base additives.