bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building Materials Effects of Al Content and Physical Properties on the Electromagnetic Interference Shielding of Sn Based Coating Thin Layers
Authors: Hung Fei Shuo , Hung Fei Yi , Chiang Che Ming , Lui Truan Sheng
Published: November 2011

This study coats complex colloid mixed with Sn-xAl powders and polyethylene on glass to examine the shield effect on electromagnetic interference (EMI). In addition, the sputtering specimens and powder coating specimens were compared. The results show that adding Al to the Sn-xAl powders can increase the electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield at lower frequencies. Notably, the number of cavities in the coating layer increased with the coating thickness, with the result that the EMI shield could not improve with an increase in the coating thickness at higher frequencies. However, the EMI shield of sputtering films had a tendency to increase as the thin thickness increased. The Sn-40Al undergoes a dispersing effect which forms a fine overlapping structure, thereby improving the low frequency EMI shielding. In addition, the Sn-20Al powders possessed the properties of a small particle size, closed structure and higher electric conductivity which improved the high frequency EMI shielding. For the sputtering films, the annealed treatment not only had higher electric conductivity but also increased the high frequency EMI shielding.
Effect of Temperature on Starch Accumulation and Activities of Starch Synthetic Key Enzymes during Grain-Filling Stage of Aromatic Rice
Authors: Xu Zhen Jiang , Xiao Li Zhong , Liu Hong , Ren Yong Hao , Li Zhi Lin
Published: November 2011

Changes of the content of starch, amylose and the activities of 3 key enzymes involved in starch synthetic metabolism in developing rice grains under four different temperature in phytotrons during grain filling stage of two aromatic rice varieties were studied. The results showed that compared with that under the lower temperature (21°C and 23°C), the content of starch and amylose and the activities of SBE and GBSS under higher temperatures (26°Cand 30°C) were generally higher at the beginning of the grain filling stage and obviously lower during the middle and late grain filling stage, with the exception of the activity SSS which were always higher under lower temperature. The relationship between the changes of activities of SSS, SBE and the variation of starch accumulating rate was very close and so did the relationship between GBSS activity and the amylose content. The lower activities of SSS, SBE and GBSS during the middle and late grain filling stage may be the key physiological factors which lead to the poorer progress quality and appearance quality of aromatic rice under high temperature.
Performance Evaluation of Epoxy Asphalt and Study of Epoxy Asphalt Used on Deck Surfacing of Concrete Bridge
Authors: Li Yan Chun , Zhang Pan , Lv Rui , Xu Yu Zhuo , Hou Guo Jing
Published: November 2011

Accoding to the current situation of deck surfacing with Epoxy asphalt and its development in China and abroad, this paper has analyzed the feature of the function of Epoxy asphalt used on surface pavement of cement concrete bridge through analyzing the physical and chemical properties of Epoxy asphalt and further testing the superiority of Epoxy asphalt in the road construction.
A Contrastive Study on LiMn2O4 Prepared by Solution Combustion Synthesis Using Nitrate or Acetate Salts as Raw Materials
Authors: Liu Gui Yang , Guo Jun Ming , Zhang Li Li , Wang Bao Sen , He Ying
Published: November 2011

In this paper, spinel LiMn2O4 was prepared by the solution combustion synthesis using acetate or nitrate salts as raw materials and acetic acid as fuel. The composition and phase structure are determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the electrochemical performance is tested by using a coin type half-battery versus Li+/Li. The results indicate that the products prepared from acetate salts have higher purities, higher crystallinities and better electrochemical performances than these of the products prepared from nitrate salts. And for the products prepared from acetate salts, the performance becomes worse with increasing acetic acid ratios. Contrarily, for the products prepared from nitrate salts, the performance becomes little better with increasing acetic acid ratios.
The New Progress of Cadmium Sulfide Synthesis
Authors: Zhang Ya Hui , Wang Qing
Published: November 2011

Cadmium sulfide has been the subject of considerable interest because of its potential applications in many fields. In this paper, the synthesis of Cadmium sulfide nanostructures is described. The Morphologies of as prepared Cadmium sulfide nanostructures are summarized. And the applications and prospects of Cadmium sulfide in this field also are analyzed.
Wear Mitigation in Magnesium Alloy AZ80 Processed by Equal Channel Angular Pressing
Authors: Fouad Yasser , Ibrahim Khaled M. , Okolo Brando
Published: November 2011

First results of the influence of Equal Channel Angular Pressing (ECAP) on the wear behavior of the magnesium alloy AZ80 have been discussed. The evident grain refinement and redistribution of second phases in the 4 pass processed materials resulted in an increase of the hardness state in the AZ80 alloy. Wear tests conducted on a pin-on-disc set-up revealed better wear resistance for the 4 pass processed materials. Isothermal aging treatment, at 210°C for 10 hrs, of the ECAP processed materials showed that wear resistance properties are improved markedly. For incremental sliding speeds during the wear test, wear rate of the AZ80 alloy was found to increase.
The Performance Management after Mergers and Acquisitions in High Technology Manufacturing Business
Authors: Triantafyllopoulos Yiannis , Konstantopoulos Nikolaos , Sakas Damianos P.
Published: November 2011

This article aims to determine the main factors that affect the performance management strategy in high technology manufacturing Greek companies after a merger or an acquisition. For this purpose the article is based not only on the latest literature in performance management strategy, but also to interviews of executive members of manufacturing Greek companies and to the primary results of a quantitative analysis in some Greek companies that operate in manufacturing business and had in the near past a change in their environment due to a merger or acquisition. Findings indicate factors such as leadership, learning, teamwork and recognition as the ones that main affect the performance management of the company.
Studying Structure and Magnetic Properties of Armco Steel after Mechanical Treatment
Authors: Kokkoris D.
Published: November 2011

Results on the correlation of structure and magnetic properties in ARMCO steels after mechanical treatment are reported in this paper. Samples have undergone plastic deformation by means of cold rolling and tensile stress in their as-bought state and after stress-relief process. Minor magnetic hysteresis measurements in 1 Hz have been performed in the as-bought, annealed and plastically deformed samples. X-ray diffraction, optical metallography and transmission electron microscopy have been employed to determine the microstructure of the samples. A clear decreasing monotonic dependence of the maximum differential permeability on applied stress and dislocation density has been observed.
The Corrosion Influence of 3,5% NaCl – Water Solution on Mechanical, Magnetical and Micro-Failure Behavior of ARMCO Steel
Authors: Ioakeimidis E.K.
Published: November 2011

The corrosive influence of 3,5% sodium chloride – water solution on tensile mechanical and Barkhausen magnetical noise response of an ARMCO steel was investigated. This response was correlated with the micro-failure behavior gained by SEM – Fractography observations. It was found that the increasing time (degree) of corrosion leads to a dramatic and consistent decrease of the tensile ductility and to a noticeable increase of the Barkhausen noise signal. Especially, it was shown that during the tensile loading of the corroded specimens the magnetic Barkhausen signal is monotonically increasing up to the fracture point. This on load increase of the magnetic signal is enhaced by the time (degree) of corrosion. Fractography analysis shown features concerning ductile-brittle, mixed-mode of failure where the brittle component tends to dominate with increasing time (degree) of corrosion.
Comparative Study in Magnetic Composites with PMMA and PS Matrices Made by Suspension Polymerization
Authors: Karagiovanaki Sotiria , Efthimiadis K.G. , Zoumpoulakis Loukas
Published: November 2011

Magnetic polymer composites were synthesized via suspension polymerization method, incorporating nanoFe3O4powder into poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and polystyrene (PS) matrices in order to obtain polymer magnetic microspheres with perspectives in sensing applications. The monomer (MMA or Styrene) and the magnetic powder (pre-made Fe3O4, 20nm in diameter) are mixed together under vigorous stirring and follows suspension polymerization. The product was sequentially filtered through a range of sieves and spherical composites were obtained with grains of sizes ranging from 45μm to 250μm. The yield of polymerization was 60% to 85% for the two different matrices in samples and the corresponding polymer product contained 1.25wt% to 4.00wt% of Fe3O4. It is observed that increasing the content of magnetite affect the surface morphology of the microspheres and their magnetic behavior. The pure nanoFe3O4powder and the magnetic polymer microspheres were characterized using techniques such as X-Ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optical microscopy and magnetization measurements carried out by a Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) .
Physics and Modeling of Magnetic Non Destructive Testing Techniques
Authors: Ktena Aphrodite
Published: November 2011

Magnetic Non Destructive Testing (MNDT) methods are a tool not limited in the detection of cracks and defects, like traditional NDT methods for ferrous structures, but they have shown a potential for the monitoring of the structure and crack prevention. MNDT techniques include surface Magnetic Barkhausen Noise measurements (MBN) yielding localized information about the surface stresses and magnetization processes in the vicinity of the measurement; the use of Magnetostrictive Delay Lines (MDL) for the measurement of surface stresses; the Magneto Acoustic Emission (MAE), revealing information about the magnetic domain wall propagation and indirectly about the underlying structure’s role in the magnetization process of the material; magnetic major and minor loop (B-H) bulk measurements which yield information on the macroscopic magnetic properties of the material such as, the coercivity, Hc, the remanence, Br, or the permeability, µ. Results show that changes in these properties are definite signs of non-uniformly distributed stresses along the material and reveal a definitive dependence of the various magnetization reversal mechanisms such as domain wall propagation and domain rotation on the microstructure of the material,eg, the domain wall structure, the effect of dislocations, the grain size, built-in stresses. However, the quantitative mapping of the MNDT results to the microstructure and from there to the possibility of crack generation and propagation is still a very attractive but open question. Modeling at the atomic level involving Ising Models, at the microscopic level using micromagnetic calculations and at the macroscopic level employing the Preisach formalism, has so far provided useful insight. The use of modeling in order to not only explain experimental results but in forecasting is expected to greatly enhance the position of the MNDT techniques in industrial NDT.
Cyclodextrin-Based Supramolecular Multilayer Assemblies for the Design of Chemical Optical Sensors Using Tilted Fiber Bragg Gratings
Authors: Lépinay Sandrine , Laffont Guillaume , Ferdinand Pierre , Millot Marie Claude , Carbonnier Benjamin
Published: November 2011

In this work, we demonstrate the possibility to use optical fiber incorporating photowritten tilted fiber Bragg gratings (TFBG) as optical detection system for the real time monitoring of interfacial adsorption events. For this purpose, immobilization of cyclodextrin polymers onto the surface of optical fiber was envisioned through the layer-by-layer self-assembly method with the aim of developing sensing layers with well-defined host properties. To verify the feasibility of our strategy, fluorescence microscopy was applied to evidence the effective inclusion of fluorescent molecular, toluene, within the cyclodextrin cavities present onto the optical fiber interface. In a further step, it was demonstrated that the elaboration of the multilayer assembly can be monitored in real time using the TFBG sensor. The host properties of the as-prepared sensing layers were directly applied to develop chemical sensor sensitive to toluene. It was found that the TFBG response was related to the toluene concentration and a linear dependence was observed in the low concentration regime.
Polymer Coated Microfabricated Interdigitated Electrodes Arrays for Gas Sensing Applications
Authors: Oikonomou P. , Manoli K. , Goustouridis D. , Botsialas A. , Valamontes E. , Raptis I. , Sanopoulou M.
Published: November 2011

InterDigitated Capacitive (IDC) sensor arrays are fabricated with conventional microelectronics-micromachining technologies on quartz substrates. After fabrication, a polymeric well is patterned around each IDC to precisely define the sensing area and thus deposit coatings of various polymers, by drop casting, in a reproducible and controlled manner. The gas sensing performance of the IDC array is presented for humidity and p-xylene.
Analysis of Interactions between Pilot-Operator and Advanced Flight Control System
Authors: Rzucidło Paweł , Chudy Peter
Published: November 2011

This work discusses the application of techniques serving the purpose of prediction and detection of unfavorable man-machine interactions. Prediction criteria of Pilot Induced Oscillations (PIO) were applied during design process of experimental multi-modal fly-by-wire control system for small light aircraft. Estimated PIO susceptibility was further verified during real-time simulations and flight tests. The verification process included subjective pilot/operator expert opinions and the results obtained from the automatic detectors, used for the PIO identification in long sets of recorded data. The general idea of the detection algorithms is based on the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT). These are being presented in this paper in a form of detection applications along with the results of the flight experiments.
Six-Legged Walking Robot for Inspection Tasks
Authors: Krenich Stanisław , Urbanczyk Marcin
Published: November 2011

In the paper an approach to design and control of reconfigurable walking robots is presented. Based on the biological inspiration the conception of the six-legged robot is proposed. In the first part a mechanical structure, basic kinematical and dynamical dependences in the robot legs are described. The structure, kinetics rules, gait patterns etc. are derived from typical stick insects. According to the above assumptions the body and the legs of the robot are designed and made. At all legs eighteen DC servomotors with resistant encoders are used. In addition at the robot head one DC servomotor for sensors or a vision system is introduced. In the second part a control system is discussed. The multi-level control unit is based on the AVR Atmega8/16 microcontrollers which are responsible for generating of a movement trajectory and at the same time for controlling of the all servomotors. For the proposed control system different gait algorithms and behaviour rules including a forward/back movement, avoiding of obstacles are worked out. They allow an autonomous work of the robot or remote control by an operator. In addition, during the walk the algorithms can match the type of attitudes and gaits to an environment. Next, some experiments of walking for different control algorithms are carried out and described. At the end some conclusions and directions of the further research are given.
Neural Controlling of Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Żak Andrzej
Published: November 2011

The main aim of paper is to introduce the results of research concentrated on controlling remotely operated underwater vehicle using artificial neural networks. Firstly the mathematical basis of neural network using to control dynamical object were introduced. Next the proposed control system which is using technology of artificial neural network was presented. At the end the example results of research on stabilizing movements’ parameters of underwater vehicle using ROV simulator were presented. The paper is finished by summary which include conclusions derive from results of research.
Diagnostic-Oriented Vibroacoustic Model of the Reciprocating Engine
Authors: Komorska Iwona
Published: November 2011

The method of modelling the signal of vibrations of the internal combustion engine based on the discrete wavelet transform (DWT), is presented in the paper. This method is suitable for the representation of transient processes, which occur in the vibroacoustic signal (VA) generated by the engine. The model is identified on the basis of the vibration signal recorded during the car driving at a constant speed. The base model and its measures are created for the new engine and the control measurements, performed either at the determined time periods or car mileage, are compared to them. This base model must be actualised after each engine overhaul and as its wear and tear progresses, due to changes of the vibration characteristics. On account of a random character of vibration responses the envelope of the modelled signal is utilised for diagnostic purposes. The model based diagnostic method was verified in the paper on the example of the engine exhaust valve defect.
Control Measurements at the Manufacturing of Metallic Products
Authors: Tarczyński Wiesław , Kopka Ryszard
Published: November 2011

This article presents the developed system for collecting, memorising and analysing of the measurements conducted in a production plant. It describes the algorithm of the software im-plemented on the control panel and managing the work of a single measurement cell. Moreover the procedure of collecting of the measurement results by two modes: automatically and manually and the procedure of estimating of product ratio quality. Mentioned are also the practices for controlling of the communication with the central computer as well as archiving of the collected measurement results.
Model of Propeller for the Precision Control of Marine Vehicle
Authors: Małecki Józef
Published: November 2011

This paper describes mathematical models of propeller thrust and torque. The models are traditionally based on steady state thrust and torque characteristics. These characteristics usually are obtained in model towing tanks. Often experimental results are showed that these quasi steady state models do not accurately describe the transient phenomena in a thruster of the marine mechatronic system. Nowadays papers published in conference proceedings includes dynamic models usually was based on the experimental observations. Describing zero advance speed conditions accurately, this model however does not work for a marine vehicle at nonzero relative water speed. This paper derives a dynamic model of propeller that includes the effects of transients in the flow over a wide range of sea operation. The results of this trials are essential for accurate thrust control in precise control of marine vehicle.
Dual-Input Current-Mode Gate Using for Digital Signal Processing in Mechatronic Systems
Authors: Rajewska Magdalena , Walkowiak Maciej
Published: November 2011

The aim of this work is to proposed an application of new multi-input, current-mode gates, especially new, accomplishing logical function NOR to implement T-type standard logical function, dual input gate. Current-mode gates consume almost current from the power supply and therefore are suitable for mixed mode operations. Contrary to voltage mode digital gates, presented in the paper current mode gates do not produce strong voltage and current fluctuations in the common substrate of the mechatronics system. Current-mode gates algebra differs from Boole’s one, as besides logical states “0” and “1” also state “-1” occurs. Thanks to “-1” state it is easy to implement T-type standard logical function for which for hardware implementation, new dual-input current-mode gate is suggested, which in effect reduces hardware complexity of projected CMCL (Current–Mode Current Logic) system.
Supervisory Controller of the Ship Propulsion Plant
Authors: Kruszewski Jan
Published: November 2011

The paper describes an integration of monitoring and control of three main parts of the ship propulsion plant: Main Engine – Shaft Generator – Pitch Propeller. The Supervisory optimal and fuzzy logic controller is to be implemented into the system as an intelligent and adaptive unit, gathering inputs and outputs of three “independent” (main engine, shaft generator, pitch propeller) parts of ship propulsion system. Described above supervisory controller is intentionally included into “Sail by Wire“ Supervisory System and creates a virtual controller of ship’s safety performance. This is an integrated, optimal, adaptive and intelligent control and monitoring system responsible for ship’s safety.
Safe Ship’s Control in a Fuzzy Environment Using a Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Seghir Mostefa Mohamed
Published: November 2011

Marine accidents occurring nowadays testify to the fact that systems enhancing the level of navigational safety are indispensable. This paper describes a method of safe ship control in the collision situation in a fuzzy environment based on a genetic algorithm. The optimal safe ship trajectory in a collision situation is presented as multistage decision-making process. The results have been discussed.
An Optical Study on Orientational Order Parameter and Molecular Polarizability in Benzylidene Anilines
Authors: Rao M. Ramakrishna Nanachara , Prasad P.V. Datta , Pisipati V.G.K.M. , Latha D. Madhavi
Published: November 2011

Refractive indices measurements are carried out in four alkoxy benzylidene anilines viz., N-(p-n-methoxy and ethoxy benzaldehyde)-p-n-dodecyl and tetra decyl anilines, 1O.12, 1O.14, 2O.12 and 2O.14. First three compounds exhibit monovariant nematic phase while the last compound exhibits nematic and SmA phases with variable thermal ranges. The molecular polarizabilities are calculated from the refractive indices and the density using the well known internal field models by Vuks and Neugebauer. The molecular polarizability anisotropy is estimated from the Lippincott δ-function model as well as molecular vibrational methods. The order parameter is estimated using a) from the Haller’s extrapolation from molecular polarizabilities, b) from the scaling factors obtained from the equations by Vuks and Neugbeaur and c) directly from the birefringence - a method developed by Kuczynski et al without considering any internal field model to the liquid crystal molecule. The results evaluated from these methods are compared from one another and the limitations of the methods used are discussed.
Optical Properties and Electronic Structures of a Liquid Crystal TBO10A
Authors: Huang Yuan Ming , Ma Qing Lan , Zhai Bao Gai
Published: November 2011

A liquid crystal (LC) N,N-(terephthalylidene) bis (4-octyloxyaniline) (TBO10A) was synthesized at room temperature. The LC TBO10A were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), polarizing optical microscopy (POM), ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, photoluminecence (PL) spectroscopy and electronic structure calculations. In tetrahydrofuran solutions, two optical absorption bands were recorded for TBO10A at about 298 and 379 nm, respectively. Under the 325 nm excitation, dilute tetrahydrofuran solutions of the TBO10A can give off weak blue PL. With Hückel tight-binding method, the electronic structures of the TBO10A were calculated. Our results demonstrated that two absorptions can be attributed to theπ→π* andn→π* transitions in the rigid core of the TBO10A while the PL observed at about 481 nm (2.58 eV) can be assigned to theπ* →ntransition.
Synthesis and Mesophase Properties of a Series of Chiral Rod-Like Polysiloxanes
Authors: Wu Hao , Zhang Chun Xiu , Pu Jia Ling , Li Ya Nan , Zhang Ming Xia , Fang Gui Sen
Published: November 2011

Cholesteric liquid crystals elastomers have been extensively studied during the last two decades. They showed Bragg-reflection in visible, Infrared and even UV wavelength Range and a particular circular polarization. Their special helical structure and the adjustment of pitch made them suitable for using as optical thin films. In this study, two kinds of mesogenic monomers undecylenate cholesteryl ester (M1) and p-phenylene di-4-(allyloxyl) benzoate (M2) were synthesized. Then the two monomers were fixed onto poly- (methylsiloxane) backbone by grafting polymerization using Dicyclopentadienylplatinum (II) Chloride as catalyst. A series of side-chain polymers with different monomer densities produced by the reaction of hydropolysiloxane and M1/M2with different molar ratios were obtained. The synthesized polymers were characterized by IR, H1NMR and GPC. The mesophases were characterized by using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), polarizing optical microscopy (POM).
Synthesis and Mesophse Study on a Triphenylene-Based Polysiloxane
Authors: Zhang Chun Xiu , Pu Jia Ling , Wu Hao , Zhang Ao , Zhang Ming Xia , Fang Gui Sen
Published: November 2011

A side chain triphenylene-based polysiloxane were synthesized from 2-hydroxy-3-Methoxy-6,7,10,11–tetrapentyloxy-triphenylene.2-hydroxy-3-Methoxy-6,7,10,11–tetrapentyloxy triphenylene was synthesized via the common synthisis route including the Williamson Etherification of catechol, the iodination of 1,2-dipentyloxybenzene, the Ullman Coupling and the coupling of 3,3'-4,4'–tetrapentyloxy diphenyl and methoxy-phenol; 2-allyloxyl-3-Methoxy-6, 7, 10, 11–tetrapentyloxytriphenylene was synthesized by the etherification of 2-hydroxy-3-Methoxy-6,7,10, 11–tetrapentyloxytriphenylene and allyl bromide; the polysiloxane was synthesized by addition of 2-allyloxyl-3-Methoxy-6,7,10,11–tetrapentyloxytriphenylene and polydimethylsiloxane. The structures of the compounds were determined by FTIR and 1HNMR. Mesophase and their structural orders were determined using a polarized optical microscope and a differential scanning calorimeter.
Thermal and Optical Properties of Main Chain Polymer Compose of Oligo-L-LA Segments and Biphenol Group
Authors: Peng Jie , Xue Qing Bin , Chen Hong Ru , Sun Ling Min , Dong Run Tao
Published: November 2011

Thermal properties and phase behavior of series of main chain copolymers containing oligomeric-L-LA segments (OLLA) and biphenol groups were synthesized and characterized. OLLA segments were prepared by ring opening polymerization of L-LA initiated by biphenol mesogens with active HO-group and then polymerized to form main chain polymer by the reaction pentanedioyl dichloride with the-OH groups at the free end of OLLA. Their phase behaviors were studied by using DSC and POM. XRD measurements revealed the formation of layered structures. CD measurements were used to measure the helical structure and the optical rotation power of the main chain polymers.
Hexabenzocoronenes Bearing Odd Carbon Alkyl Chains as Columnar Discotic Liquid Crystal
Authors: Liu Xu Ying , Jiang Yu , Cheng Rui , Wang Wen Guang , Pu Jia Ling
Published: November 2011

Two HBC derivatives (HBC-C13and HBC-C15), both containing 6 odd-carbon alkyl chains surrounding the rigid plane core, were investigated as discotic liquid crystal. The difference between their thermal behaviors has been investigated by using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Their mesomorphic phase behavior was observed by polarizing optical microscopy (POM). A remarkable odd-even effect in the phase transition temperatures was observed for all HBC derivatives (HBC-C12, HBC-C13, HBC-C14, HBC-C15and HBC-C16).
H-PDLC Based Electrically Controlled Optical Chopper Applied within the Fluorescence Microscopy System
Authors: Zheng Ji Hong , Zhou Zeng Jun , Tang Ping Yu , Jiang Yan Meng
Published: November 2011

An electrically controlled optical chopper based on holographic polymer dispersed liquid crystal grating (H-PDLC) and its application within the fluorescence microscopy has been investigated in this paper. The H-PDLC chopper has the characteristics such as free waveform, easy and precise tunable working frequency, no moving parts etc. In order to testify its application, a two-channel frequency division multiplexing confocal fluorescence microscopy (FDMCF) has been established, where the integrated H-PDLC chopper array modulates the individual exciting laser beam with different carrying frequency. The FDMCF microscopy detects two-channel fluorescent signals from the two different spots of the specimen’s surface synchronously. The successful experiments testified the optical chopper device based on H-PDLC technique, and explored its application possibility within the modern integrated optical system as well.
Charge Storage Characteristics of Si-Rich Silicon Nitride and the Effect of Tunneling Thickness on Nonvolatile Memory Performance
Authors: Nguyen Hong Hanh , Dang Ngoc Son , Nguyen Van Duy , Jang Kyungsoo , Baek Kyunghyun , Choi Woojin , Raja Jayapal , Yi Junsin
Published: November 2011

Nonvolatile memory (NVM) devices with nitride-nitride-oxynitride (NNO) stack structure using Si-rich silicon nitride (SiNx) as charge trapping layer on glass substrate were fabricated. Amorphous silicon clusters existing in the Si-rich SiNxlayer enhance the charge storage capacity of the devices. Low temperature poly-silicon (LTPS) technology, plasma-assisted oxidation/nitridation method to form a uniform ultra-thin tunneling layer, and an optimal Si-rich SiNxcharge trapping layer were used to fabricate NNO NVM devices with different tunneling thickness 2.3, 2.6 and 2.9 nm. The increase memory window, lower voltage operation but little scarifying in retention characteristics of nitride trap NVM devices had been accomplished by reducing the tunnel oxide thickness. The fabricated NVM devices with 2.9 nm tunneling thickness shows excellent electrical properties, such as a low threshold voltage, a high ON/OFF current ratio, a low operating voltage of less than ±9 V and a large memory window of 2.7 V, which remained greater than 72% over a period of 10 years.
Degradation of Polyimide Film by Corona Aging under Bipolar Pulse Voltage
Authors: Yang Yang , Yin Di , Wang Xuan , Tian Fu Qiang , Lei Qing Quan , Shi Jing , Xiong Rui
Published: November 2011

Corona aging of 100CR polyimide (PI) film under bipolar pulse voltage was studied by using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Confocal Raman microspectroscopy. AFM results show that the 100CR film near the breakdown hole is much rougher than the outside region. In the region away from the breakdown hole, no Raman shift is detected, but the intensity of all Raman peaks shows clearly decrease with the measuring region approaching more closely to the aging center. It is suggested that the damage of the PI film initiates from the surface in the presence of voids due to the partial discharge, and then gradually extends to interior, and these partial discharge cause progressive deterioration, and ultimately lead to the electrical breakdown of PI film with continuous aging.
Biocompatible and Biodegradable Triblock Copolymers via ATRP
Authors: Tang Xin De , Wang Xin , Dou Yuan Yuan , Pei Mei Shan
Published: November 2011

Novel well-defined ABA-type triblock copolymers, (PMAIPGal-b-PLA-b-PMAIPGal), were synthesized by a three-step procedure: (a) melt polycondensation of L-lactic acid using stannous chloride (SnCl2•2H2O) as a catalyst, resulting in a hydroxyl-terminated prepolymer by alkyd condensation with 1,4-butanediol, followed by (b) esterification of the PLA hydroxyl end-groups with 2-bromoisobutyryl bromide, and (c) ATRP of 6-O-methacryloyl-1,2;3,4-di-O-isopropylidene-D-galactopyranose (MAIPGal) by the bromoisobutyryl initiating groups. The resultant copolymers were characterized by 1H NMR spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The biocompatible and biodegradable copolymers have potential applications as tissue engineering biomaterials or controlled release drug delivery systems.
Effects of Chloride Ion in TeO2-ZnO-ZnCl2-Li2O-Eu2O3 Glass System
Authors: Sahar M.R. , Arifin R. , Ghoshal S.K.
Published: November 2011

A series of zinc oxychloride tellurite glass based on (79 – z) TeO2- 10ZnO - (z) ZnCl2- 10Li2O - 1Eu2O3(where z = 0, 10, 20, 25 and 30 mol %) are successfully prepared by the melt quenching method. The optical properties are characterized by means of Raman spectra, UV-Vis and photoluminescence spectroscopy. It is found that the Raman spectrum of the glass shows three main peaks in the vibrational band in the vicinity of 430, 670 and 770 cm-1. The intensity of all bands is decreased as the ZnCl2contents are increased from 0 to 30 mol % but the intensity ratio (I770/ I670) increased. This may arise from the change in the structural chains from TeO4to TeO3+1or to a TeO3polyhedron shape. Using the UV-Vis absorption spectrum, the Judd-Ofelt (J-O) analysis is performed to determine the J-O parameters (Ω2, Ω4, Ω6) and it is found that Ω2> Ω4> Ω6. The values of Ω2, Ω4, Ω6, the quality factor (Q) and the radiative lifetime (τrad) are found to increase with ZnCl2content up to 20 mol %. From photoluminescence spectrum, it is found that the value of the intensity ratio between5D0→7F2and5D0→7F1transition increase with ZnCl2contents which illustrates that this glass can easily become laser material.
Light Scattering Images of Amplitude, Phase and Polarization from Typical Blood Cells
Authors: Wang Ya Wei , Xu Yuan Yuan , Yue Qu Wei , Chen Yu Jiao , Bu Min , Shang Xue Fu , Zhu Xing Long
Published: November 2011

With the development of DPM (digital phase microscopy) and FCM (flow cytometry), techniques of cell recognition are getting more and more applications in many fields. Researches on the information from cells are very important to these techniques. In this paper, focusing on the technique of analyzing light scattering information and its relation with the morphological structures of the leucocytes and erythrocytes have been done. Based on the VirtualLab simulation techniques, the light scattering images of amplitude, phase and polarization of these typical cells have been obtained. It is found that the amplitude, phase and polarization of these cells are closely related to their morphological structures by analyzing the images, which is very useful to identify biological cells.
Fabrication of High Quality Textured ZnO:Al Thin Films
Authors: Shi Ming Ji , Chen Lan Li
Published: November 2011

High quality textured ZnO:Al electrode can improve the energy conversion efficiency of silicon based thin film solar cells. Two groups of ZnO:Al films were fabricated under different sputtering powers. Different textured surfaces were got when corroding ZnO:Al films with diluted HCl solutions of different concentration. The transmission spectrum and square resistance of the samples were measured. The dependence of sputtering power and corrosion time on the resistivity, transmittance and surface texture of the samples were studied. The results showed that the density of the ZnO:Al film was mainly affected by sputtering power. The compactness of the film increases with the increase of sputtering power. The corrosion rates of the samples with different compactness follow different rules. High quality textured ZnO:Al electrode was obtained when the ZnO:Al film deposited under sputtering power of 200W was corroded by diluted HCl solution of 0.5%.
Study of Variation in Order Parameter with Temperature of Mixtures of Nematic and Cholesteryl Liquid Crystal
Authors: Hasware Shezan , Parekh Ratnaraaj , Devlekar Anil , Bhatia S.M.
Published: November 2011

The mixtures of nematic [4-Hexyloxy-4-Biphenyl carbonitrile] and cholesteryl propionate were investigated at various temperatures. Measurements of refractive index and transition temperatures were noted by using an Abbe refractometer with a heating arrangement. Ordinary and extraordinary refractive indices were obtained which helped us in calculating the order parameter and its variation with temperature. We also carried out Fabry-Perot Scattering Studies (FPSS) on our samples to confirm the various transition temperatures. Photographs of liquid crystal mixture samples placed between crossed nicols are taken at various temperatures to observe the phase transition.
Nestin expression associates with poor prognosis and triple negative phenotype in locally advanced (T4) breast cancer
Authors: Piras F. , Ionta M.T. , Lai S. , Perra M.T. , Atzori F. , Minerba L. , Pusceddu V. , Maxia C. , Murtas D. , Demurtas P. , Massidda B. , Sirigu P.
Published: November 2011

Nestin, an intermediate filament protein, has traditionally been noted for its importance as a neural stem cell marker. However, in recent years, expression of nestin has shown to be associated with general proliferation of progenitor cell populations within neoplasms. There is no reported study addressing nestin expression in T4 breast cancer patients. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate, through immunohistochemistry, the expression and distribution of nestin in T4 breast cancer, in order to determine its association with clinical and pathological parameters as well as with patientsâ€™ outcome. Nestin was detectable in tumoral cells and in endothelial cells of blood microvessels, and it is significantly expressed in triple-negative and in inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) subgroups of T4 breast tumours. The Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the presence of nestin in tumoral cells significantly predicted poor prognosis at 5-years survival (P=0.02) and with borderline significance at 10-years of survival (P=0.05) in T4 breast cancer patients. On the basis of these observations, we speculate that nestin expression may characterize tumours with an aggressive clinical behavior, suggesting that the presence of nestin in tumoral cells and vessels may be considered an important factor that leads to a poor prognosis. Further studies are awaited to define the biological role of nestin in the etiology of these subgroups of breast cancers.
Non-Hodgkin′s lymphoma "masquerading" as Pott′s disease in a 13-year old boy
Authors: Adegboye Olasunkanmi Abdulrasheed
Published: November 2011

Lymphomas are malignant neoplasms of the lymphoid lineage. They are broadly classified as either Hodgkin disease or as non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Burkitt′s lymphoma, a variety of NHL, is significantly most common in sub-Saharan Africa, where it accounts for approximately one half of childhood cancers. Lymphoblastic lymphoma is less common. A case of paravertebral high grade non-Hodgkin′s lymphoma (lymphoblastic lymphoma) "masquerading" as Pott′s disease in a 13-year-old child is reported. The present report was informed by the unusual presentation of this case and the intent of increasing the index of diagnostic suspicion. A brief appraisal is provided of the clinical parameters, management strategies and challenges. AT was a 13-year boy that presented on account of a slowly evolving and progressively increasing hunch on the back and inability to walk over 4 and 8 months duration, respectively. There was subsequent inability to control defecation and urination. There was no history of cough. He and his twin brother lived with their paternal grandfather who had chronic cough with associated weight loss. The grandfather died shortly before the child′s admission. The child had no BCG immunization. The essential findings on examination were in keeping with lower motor neurons (LMN) paralysis of the lower limbs. The upper limbs appeared normal. There was loss of cutaneous sensation from the umbilicus (T10) downward. There was a firm, (rather tense), non-tender non-pulsatile, smooth swelling over the mid-third of the back (T6-L1) the mass had no differential warmth. It measures about 20×12 cm. Chest radiograph showed no active focal lung lesion, but the thoraco-lumbar spine showed a vertebral planner at L1 and a wedged collapse of T11-T12 vertebrae. There was sclerosis of the end plates of all the vertebral bodies with associated reduction in the bone density. He had an excision biopsy on the 90th day on admission, following which his clinical state rapidly deteriorated. He died within 48 h post surgery. This report aims at raising the local index of clinical suspicion by highlighting the reality of rarities, even in the presence of inadequate diagnostic facilities!
Characterization of the bio-optical anomaly and diurnal variability of particulate matter, as seen from scattering and backscattering coefficients, in ultra-oligotrophic eddies of the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Loisel H. , Vantrepotte V. , Norkvist K. , Mériaux X. , Kheireddine M. , Ras J. , Pujo-Pay M. , Combet Y. , Leblanc K. , Dall'Olmo G. , Mauriac R. , Dessailly D. , Moutin T.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. The variability of inherent optical properties is investigated in the ultra-oligotrophic waters of the Mediterranean Sea sampled during the BOUM experiment performed during early summer 2008. Bio-optical relationships found for ultra-oligotrophic waters of the three anticyclonic gyres sampled significantly depart from the mean standard relationships provided for the global ocean, confirming the peculiar character of these Mediterranean waters. These optical anomalies are diversely related to the specific biological and environmental conditions occurring in the studied ecosystem. Specifically, the surface specific phytoplankton absorption coefficient exhibits values lower than those expected from the general relationships mainly in relation with a high contribution of relatively large sized phytoplankton. Conversely, the particulate backscattering coefficient, bbp, values are much higher than the mean standard values for a given chlorophyll-a concentration, TChl-a. This feature can presumably be related to the relevant influence of highly refractive submicrometer particles of Saharan origin in the surface layer of the water column. The present measurements also show that the Mediterranean Sea is greener than TChl-a alone indicates, as already stressed in previous studies. This color anomaly is partly explained by the estimated colored dissolved organic matter and submicrometer particles absorption coefficients, and to a greater extent by the high bbp/TChl-a values assuming that these particles backscatter light similarly in the green and blue parts of the visible spectrum. The diel variation of both the particulate matter attenuation and backscattering coefficients were also investigated specifically. Despite some differences in the timing and the magnitude of the daily oscillations found for these optical parameters, potential for the backscattering coefficient daily oscillation to be used, similarly to that for the attenuation coefficient, as a proxy for estimating carbon community production budget has been highlighted for the first time. This result is particularly relevant for present and future geostationary spatial ocean color missions.
Human activity and damaging landslides and floods on Madeira Island
Authors: Baioni D.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. Over the last few decades, the island of Madeira has become an important offshore tourism and business center, with rapid economic and demographic development that has caused changes to the landscape due to human activity. In Madeira's recent history, there has been an increase over time in the frequency of occurrence of damaging landslide and flood events. As a result, the costs of restoration work due to damage caused by landslide and flood events have become a larger and larger component of Madeira's annual budget. Landslides and floods in Madeira deserve particular attention because they represent the most serious hazard to human life, to property, and to the natural environment and its important heritage value. The work reported on in this paper involved the analysis of historical data regarding damaging landslide and flood events on Madeira (in particular from 1941 to 1991) together with data on geological characteristics, topographic features, and climate, and from field observations. This analysis showed that the main factor triggering the occurrence of damaging landslide and flood events is rainfall, but that the increase in the number of damaging events recorded on Madeira Island, especially in recent times, seems to be related mostly to human activity, specifically to economic development and population growth, rather than to natural factors.
Estimating ice phenology on large northern lakes from AMSR-E: algorithm development and application to Great Bear Lake and Great Slave Lake, Canada
Authors: Kang K.-K. , Duguay C. R. , Howell S. E. L.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. Time series of brightness temperatures (TB) from the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer-Earth Observing System (AMSR-E) are examined to determine ice phenological parameters on the two largest lakes of northern Canada: Great Bear Lake (GBL) and Great Slave Lake (GSL). TB measurements from the 18.7, 23.8, 36.5, and 89.0 GHz channels (H- and V- polarization) are compared to assess their potential for detecting freeze-onset/melt-onset and ice-on/ice-off dates on both lakes. The 18.7 GHz (H-pol) channel is found to be the most suitable for estimating these ice dates as well as the duration of the ice cover and ice-free seasons. A new algorithm is proposed using this channel and applied to map all ice phenological parameters on GBL and GSL over seven ice seasons (2002–2009). Analysis of the spatio-temporal patterns of each parameter at the pixel level reveals that: (1) both freeze-onset and ice-on dates occur on average about one week earlier on GBL than on GSL (Day of Year (DY) 318 and 333 for GBL; DY 328 and 343 for GSL); (2) the freeze-up process or freeze duration (freeze-onset to ice-on) takes a slightly longer amount of time on GBL than on GSL (about 1 week on average); (3) melt-onset and ice-off dates occur on average one week and approximately four weeks later, respectively, on GBL (DY 143 and 183 for GBL; DY 135 and 157 for GSL); (4) the break-up process or melt duration (melt-onset to ice-off) lasts on average about three weeks longer on GBL; and (5) ice cover duration estimated from each individual pixel is on average about three weeks longer on GBL compared to its more southern counterpart, GSL. A cross-comparison of dates for several ice phenological parameters derived from other satellite remote sensing products (e.g. NOAA Interactive Multisensor Snow and Ice Mapping System (IMS), QuikSCAT, and Canadian Ice Service Database) show that, despite its relatively coarse spatial resolution, AMSR-E 18.7 GHz provides a viable means for monitoring of ice phenology on large northern lakes.
Medical Error and Medical Truth: The Placebo Effect and Room for Choice in Ayurveda
Authors: Wujastyk Dominik
Published: November 2011

I attempt to relativize allopathic medicine, or Modern Establishment Medicine (MEM), specifically in the context of the ayurvedic medical system of India, and to promote Daniel Moerman’s concept of the medical “meaning response” as a preferable conceptualization of the phenomena usually subsumed under the name “placebo.” Finally, I suggest that once these steps have been taken, a space opens up in which informed ayurvedic practice – indeed, any human activities aimed at promoting health – may find a valid place.