bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suppression of current collapse for millimeter‐wave GaN‐HEMTs
Authors: Yamada Atsushi , Makiyama Kozo , Ohki Toshihiro , Kanamura Masahito , Joshin Kazukiyo , Imanishi Kenji , Hara Naoki , Kikkawa Toshihide
Published: June 2010

This paper describes a technique to improve the drain leakage current and current collapse problems with GaN high electron mobility transistors (GaN‐HEMTs) for millimeter‐wave high‐power and high‐efficiency amplifiers with very short gate‐periphery. To investigate the relationships between the drain leakage, current collapse and crystal quality of an AlGaN buffer structure with a GaN channel layer, we performed analyses with an atomic force microscope (AFM) and examined photoluminescence (PL), lattice strain and electrical characteristics of devices. Through these analyses, we obtained an optimum epitaxial structure to reduce deep‐level defect formation in a GaN channel layer. We have clarified the effects of our work for the first time by looking at the correlation between the YL intensity and c‐axis lattice constant of a GaN channel layer. Using the optimum epitaxial structure, we minimized the drain leakage current and current collapse of a GaN‐HEMT (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Optical and structural characterization of GaN/AlGaN quantum wells for intersubband device applications
Authors: Driscoll Kristina , Liao Yitao , Bhattacharyya Anirban , Moustakas Theodore D. , Paiella Roberto , Zhou Lin , Smith David J.
Published: June 2010

Due to their large conduction‐band offsets of up to 1.75 eV, GaN/Al(Ga)N quantum wells can support intersubband transitions at record short wavelengths, well into the low‐loss transmission window of optical fibers. As a result, these quantum structures are promising to enable new intersubband device applications, including all‐optical switching for ultra‐broadband fiber‐optic networks and emission of short‐wave infrared radiation. Here we report our work on the development of high‐quality GaN/Al(Ga)N quantum well structures designed for such applications. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Use of epitaxial unipolar barriers to block surface leakage currents in photodetectors
Authors: Savich G. R. , Pedrazzani J. R. , Maimon S. , Wicks G. W.
Published: June 2010

Surface leakage currents are one of the many causes of dark current exhibited by semiconductor devices and are a common limiting factor to device performance for many types of devices. Traditionally, these surface leakage currents are controlled through the post‐epitaxial insertion of a surface passivation layer, but surface passivation is often expensive, time consuming, and not entirely effective. Unipolar barriers may be incorporated into electronic devices as a less expensive and more effective alternative way to control surface leakage currents. Unipolar barrier devices are demonstrated here using MBE‐grown InAs nBn detectors and unipolar barrier photodiodes. A commercial InAs photodiode becomes surface leakage current limited at 220 K while the nBn detector shows no surface leakage current down to at least 135 K. The unipolar barrier photodiode shows no detectable surface leakage down to at least 130 K while a matching conventional photodiode is limited by surface conduction at a temperature of 150 K. This indicates the greatly improved performance of the unipolar barrier devices (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
High‐performance nanoparticle‐enhanced tunnel junctions for photonic devices
Authors: Crook Adam M. , Nair Hari P. , Bank Seth R.
Published: June 2010

We describe GaAs‐based tunnel junctions that are compatible with photonic devices, including long‐wavelength vertical‐cavity surface‐emitting lasers and multi‐junction solar cells. Tunneling was enhanced with semimetallic ErAs nanoparticles, particularly when grown at reduced substrate temperatures. Additionally, we present the first direct measurement of the quality of III‐V layers grown above ErAs nanoparticles. Photoluminescence measurements indicate that III‐V material quality does not degrade when grown above ErAs nanoparticles, despite the mismatch in crystal structures. These findings validate these tunnel junctions as attractive candidates for GaAs‐based photonic devices (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A method for obtaining randomized block designs in preclinical studies with multiple quantitative blocking variables
Authors: Iturria Stephen J.
Published: June 2010

A method is proposed for block randomization of treatments to experimental units that can accommodate both multiple quantitative blocking variables and unbalanced designs. Hierarchical clustering in conjunction with leaf‐order optimization is used to block experimental units in multivariate space. The method is illustrated in the context of a diabetic mouse assay. A simulation study is presented to explore the utility of the proposed randomization method relative to that of a completely randomized approach, both in the presence and absence of covariate adjustment. An example R function is provided to illustrate the implementation of the method. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The clinical effectiveness of chokeberry: a systematic review
Authors: Chrubasik C. , Li G. , Chrubasik S.
Published: June 2010

Products derived from the black chokeberry, Aronia melanocarpa, are claimed to be beneficial in disorders or diseases associated with oxidative stress. The claims are based on evidence from in vitro studies and animal experiments. The active principle – a mixture of procyanidins, anthocyanins and phenolic acids – constitutes one of the most potent natural antioxidants. A systematic review was carried out of the quality of the clinical trials on chokeberry products that had been published up to December 2009, and conventionally established criteria were used to assess the strength of the evidence for their clinical effectiveness. Thirteen studies were identified. The quality of most of the trials and, correspondingly, the evidence of effectiveness for Aronia products is poor. Though laboratory and clinical data indicate that chokeberry products may well be useful as ‘functional food’ for disorders or diseases related to oxidative stress, these promising indications need to be confirmed in more rigorous studies before putative therapeutic uses can be confidently recommended for chokeberry products. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An in situ fracture device to image lipids in single cells using ToF‐SIMS
Authors: Lanekoff Ingela , Kurczy Michael E. , Adams Kelly L. , Malm Jakob , Karlsson Roger , Sjövall Peter , Ewing Andrew G.
Published: June 2010

Time‐of‐Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS) imaging yields molecule‐specific images showing the spatial distribution of specific lipids with submicron resolution, making it a potentially powerful method for studying a variety of biological questions in single cells. In order to make possible the analysis of hydrated cells in vacuum, we have designed a device for in situ freeze‐fracture of cell samples. PC12 cells are frozen between two silicon shards in a sandwich geometry, and the fracture is conducted under vacuum inside the analysis chamber of the instrument. After freeze‐fracture, ToF‐SIMS analysis was carried out using a Bi cluster ion source, providing high‐resolution images of single cells. We also show that when combining freeze‐fracture and cluster SIMS imaging, low abundant biologically important lipids, specifically PE, PC and non‐SM PC, can be imaged in single cells. Finally, K+ ion localization was used as a diagnostic to identify fracture planes through the cell for these fractured samples. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Application of TOF‐SIMS to the direct determination of syringyl to guaiacyl (S/G) ratio of lignin
Authors: Saito Kaori , Kishimoto Takao , Matsushita Yasuyuki , Imai Takanori , Fukushima Kazuhiko
Published: June 2010

The lignin syringyl to guaiacyl (S/G) ratio, the composition of monomeric units, is an important parameter that is widely used to obtain information on the complex polymer structure of lignin present in plant cell walls. We assessed the reliability of time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF‐SIMS) for determining the S/G ratio using monomer, dimer and polymer model compounds of lignin. In the case of the monomer and dimer, the S/G ratios were much higher than the actual molar S/G ratios. In contrast, for the aryl ether 8‐O‐4′‐linked polymers, the S/G ratios estimated were similar to the actual S/G molar ratios, suggesting that the ionization efficiencies of the characteristic ions of S and G units detected from the synthetic lignin polymer compounds were similar. The results suggest that TOF‐SIMS is useful for rapid and convenient determination of the lignin S/G ratio in plants. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Statistics of electron and ion emission from single massive cluster impacts
Authors: Verkhoturov S. V. , Eller M. J. , Della‐Negra S. , Rickman R. D. , Locklear J. E. , Schweikert E. A.
Published: June 2010

We demonstrate several fundamental characteristics of coemissions of secondary ions and electrons from homogeneous targets. The custom‐built device consists of an electron microscope equipped with a fast digital camera, and a time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometer. The device operates in event‐by‐event emission/detection mode with synchronized detection of electrons and ions emitted from single projectile impact. The data are in the form of images of detected electrons which correspond to coordinates of impacts. Further, for the coordinates of each impact, there is also the ion information from that impact. The bombardment of different homogenous targets (Gramicidin S, Glycine, Guanine, Al, Au) by 15 keV C60+ and 30 keV C602+ shows abundant coemission of negative ions and electrons. We compute from the data the distribution of number of electrons detected per projectile impact. Our observations indicate that electrons are emitted independently from the type or number of the coemitted negative ions. The abundant coemission of negative ions and electrons from homogenous targets implies strong electron excitation in the energized nanovolume. Independence of emission of negative ions and electrons indicates that the mechanism of ionization is due to electron exchange between the emitted species in the excited nanovolume rather than via electron attachment. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Geochemical biosignatures preserved in microbially altered basaltic glass
Authors: Banerjee N. R. , Izawa M. R. M. , Sapers H. M. , Whitehouse M. J.
Published: June 2010

Microbes play an important role in the alteration of volcanic rocks emplaced on the seafloor as pillow basalts and hyaloclastites. Microbially altered basaltic glass hosts characteristic hollow etch structures, which are commonly filled and preserved by the precipitation of new mineral phases within the etch structures. Bioalteration textures occur in two distinct morphologies: micron‐scale granular aggregates, and long tubules (up to hundreds of microns). SIMS analyses of basaltic glass samples with abundant tubular bioalteration from the Ontong Java Plateau reveal significant chemical variations in areas with tubular microbial etch structures including: alkalis, which show depletion in Na and enrichment in K; enrichments in the alkaline elements (Ca, Sr, Ba) and the high field strength elements (Ti, Y, Zr); the first row transition metals V, Cr and Mn are slightly enriched, while Fe, Co, Ni, Cu and Zn are depleted; W and the lanthanides are enriched in tubule‐bearing regions; slight enrichments in U and P are also observed. SEM imaging following SIMS analysis revealed complex micron‐scale spongy textures that may be related to microbial glass dissolution. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of organic semiconductor multilayers with Ar cluster secondary ion mass spectrometry
Authors: Ninomiya Satoshi , Ichiki Kazuya , Yamada Hideaki , Nakata Yoshihiko , Seki Toshio , Aoki Takaaki , Matsuo Jiro
Published: June 2010

The demand for direct analytical techniques for characterization and damage evaluation of organic devices has increased dramatically in recent years, along with an increase in the importance of these devices. In this study, we demonstrate direct analysis of model structures for organic light emitting diode (OLED) devices by using SIMS with large Ar cluster ion beams. We prepared single and multilayer films of organic semiconductor materials by vacuum evaporation and analyzed their surfaces with time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS). Under bombardment with large Ar cluster ions, the predominant species observed were molecular ions from the organic materials, while small fragment ions were strongly suppressed. Moreover, the multilayer films were depth profiled with Ar cluster ion beams, and the interfaces between the organic layers could be clearly distinguished. These results show the promising potential of large Ar cluster ion beams for direct analysis of real organic semiconductor devices. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photon emission from massive projectile impacts on solids
Authors: Fernandez‐Lima F. A. , Pinnick V. T. , Della‐Negra S. , Schweikert E. A.
Published: June 2010

First evidence of photon emission from individual impacts of massive gold projectiles on solids for a number of projectile‐target combinations is reported. Photon emission from individual impacts of massive Aun+q (1⩽n⩽400; q = 1–4) projectiles with impact energies in the range of 28–136 keV occurs in less than 10 ns after the projectile impact. Experimental observations show an increase in the photon yield from individual impacts with the projectile size and velocity. Concurrently with the photon emission, electron emission from the impact area has been observed below the kinetic emission threshold and under unlikely conditions for potential electron emission. We interpret the puzzling electron emission and correlated luminescence observation as evidence of the electronic excitation resulting from the high‐energy density deposited by massive cluster projectiles during the impact. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determining major and trace element compositions of exposed melt inclusions in minerals using ToF‐SIMS
Authors: Marques A. F. A. , Scott S. D. , Sodhi R. N. S.
Published: June 2010

Melt inclusions (MI), tiny portions of liquid silicate (melt) and gases trapped inside crystals during their growth in magmatic environments, are a valuable geological tool for understanding the evolution of magmas and the source of metals for some ore deposits. Owing to their small size, acquiring the chemical composition of MI is a meticulous process.

Time‐of‐Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS) is a powerful surface analytical technique that provides excellent sensitivity with high mass and spatial resolution. We have begun the study of MI in rocks associated with modern and ancient seafloor hydrothermal systems. The main objective of our experiments is to obtain quantitative data for which we have used as standards quenched glasses with known similar compositions. Specimens were polished and different cleaning conditions (presputtering with either Ar or Cs ions) were examined in order to optimize our results, which were obtained using a Bi cluster ion source. Good quantitative results were obtained for selected major and trace elements (e.g. Mg, Na, K, V, La and Ce). Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Strain imaging of magnetic domain structures in the magnetic head of a hard disk drive
Authors: Takata Keiji
Published: June 2010

Detection and imaging of magnetic‐field‐induced strains using scanning probe microscopy enable us to observe magnetic domain structures. Domain structures in a magnetization reversal process of the lateral‐recording head in a hard disk drive were investigated by scanning over the air‐bearing surface of the head. External magnetic fields were applied by the writing coil. In the process, magnetic domains in the bottom pole were divided into right and left regions in the cross‐track direction, having opposite magnetizations. The domain boundary moved to right or left according to writing currents, and vanished by larger currents than 15 mA. Hemispherical domain structures with a diameter of around 0.6 µm, consisting of two opposite magnetizations in the direction of the applied magnetic field, were observed in several portions of the bottom pole. The domain structures also vanished with increasing field strength. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nanostructure formation onto a tip of field gas ion emitter by field‐assisted oxygen etching
Authors: Kobayashi Y. , Yasuhiko S. , Morikawa Y. , Kajiwara K. , Hata K.
Published: June 2010

For focused ion beam technology in the next generation, an adequate emitter shape for field gas ion source was investigated to obtain a higher angular current density, dI/dΩ. A < 111 > ‐oriented tungsten emitter with a trimer‐terminated nanostructure was fabricated by field‐assisted oxygen etching method. Since this method does not utilize thermodynamic phenomena, e.g. faceting of crystal plane with a thermal treatment or pseudomorphic growth of surface layer, shape of the emitter tip has a rotational symmetry with no ridge lines which brings about a decrease of axial beam current. In the preliminary experiment for helium gas, an extraction of ion current was attempted from the trimer at the apex tip, and the increases in helium ion current and dI/dΩ in proportion to the gas pressure were observed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
X‐ray photoreduction of U(VI)‐bearing compounds
Authors: Mercier‐Bion F. , Drot R. , Ehrhardt J. J. , Lambert J. , Roques J. , Simoni E.
Published: June 2010

During XPS analysis, the soft X‐ray‐induced reduction of metals such as Cr(VI) and Ce(IV) in oxides has been reported in the literature and some mechanisms have been proposed to explain this phenomenon. The reduction of U(VI) by the beam during X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy has been already reported in the literature but only for U(VI) sorbed or precipitated onto solids with reducing properties (as micas or pyrites) for whose Fe(II) can also induce the reduction of U(VI), or onto TiO2 whose the photocatalytic properties are well known. The objective of this paper is to investigate the effects of X‐ray beam on U(VI) bulk compounds (UO3, UO2(OH)2, (UO2)2SiO4, UO2(CH3COO)2 and UO2C2O4). Successive U4f, U5f, C1s XPS spectra were recorded and compared as a function of the irradiation time. The XPS photoreduction of U(VI) into U(IV) is only observed for uranyl compounds containing organic matter (uranyl acetate and uranyl oxalate). Considering the evolution of the C1s signal during the X‐ray irradiation, a significant decrease of the C O component simultaneously to the U(VI) reduction is observed, which suggests a desorption of CO or other volatile organic products from the solid surface. All these results on U(VI) bulk compounds indicate the important role of organic carbon species in the photoreduction process and to explain these observations, a photoreduction mechanism has been suggested. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanical property and corrosion resistance of zirconia/polydopamine nanocomposite multilayer films fabricated via a novel non‐electrostatic layer‐by‐layer assembly technique
Authors: Ou Junfei , Wang Jinqing , Qiu Yinong , Liu Lanzhong , Yang Shengrong
Published: June 2010

Zirconia/polydopamine (ZrO2/PDA) nanocomposite multilayer films were constructed on Si substrate via a novel nonelectrostatic layer‐by‐layer (NELBL) assembly technique. The building block of this technique is the newly reported dopamine molecule, which can be attached to almost all material surfaces and undergo oxidation‐polymerization to form PDA layers; more importantly, the outer hydroxyl groups of the PDA layer can chelated with certain inorganic oxide nanoparticles to generate oxide films. Thus, ZrO2/PDA nanocomposite multilayer films were fabricated by sequential NELBL deposition of PDA and ZrO2 nanoparticles. The formation of the ZrO2/PDA nanocomposite multilayer films was monitored by the water contact angle (WCA) and ellipsometric thickness measurements, while the microstructure of the fabricated films was analyzed by means of atomic force microscope (AFM), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The mechanical and anticorrosion behaviors of the annealed ZrO2/PDA nanocomposite multilayers were found to be greatly enhanced as compared with that of the annealed homogeneous ZrO2 film. The better mechanical and anticorrosion behaviors of the annealed ZrO2/PDA nanocomposite multilayers than the annealed homogeneous ZrO2 film may be closely related to their special microstructure. Namely, the organic–inorganic hybrid microstructure of the annealed ZrO2/PDA nanocomposite multilayers may largely account for the increased nanohardness and corrosion resistance. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of potato starch fractions and their interaction with hydrocolloids
Authors: Sikora Marek , Tomasik Piotr , Krystyjan Magdalena
Published: June 2010

Commercial potato starch was separated through sedimentation into three fractions of the size < 25, 25–70 and >70 µm estimated with the laser particle meter method and <21.6, 21.7–30.6 and >30.7 µm according to the Sartorius balance method. Amylose and amylopectin content in particular fractions did not depend on the granule size. Number average and weight average molecular weight slightly decreased and phosphorus content increased with the size of granules in the fractions. Starch fractions and, for comparison, non‐fractionated starch were gelatinized in aqueous solutions of arabic, carob, karaya and xanthan gums and carrageenan. Except for the arabic gum, all tested hydrocolloids decreased onset temperature of gelation, T0, of all starch fractions. Carob and xanthan gums and carrageenan the most remarkably decreased that parameter for large fraction, whereas other gums most considerably decreased T0 of starch of the medium fraction. Effect of gums upon such parameters of the characteristics of gelation as ηmax, ηmin and η25°C depended irregularly on the size of starch granules. In gels from gums and small granules, the role of G′ and G″ module differed from that in gels from the other starch fractions.
Starch thermal transitions comparatively studied by DSC and MTDSC
Authors: Xie Fengwei , Liu Wei‐Chen , Liu Peng , Wang Jun , Halley Peter J. , Yu Long
Published: June 2010

The gelatinisation process of waxy starch was studied using both differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and modulated temperature DSC (MTDSC). It was revealed that the results from the two techniques, especially the onset gelatinisation temperature, were slightly different, which may be due to the MTDSC principle and the mechanism of starch gelatinisation. Thus, it is suggested to avoid using MTDSC alone in the characterisation of starch thermal transitions especially in a quantitative way. However, MTDSC has the advantage in understanding the gelatinisation mechanism since it can separate the capacity change (reversible thermal event) from kinetic components (irreversible event). The stepwise change on reversible heat flow measured by MTDSC during gelatinisation was considered due to the phase transition of highly constrained starch polymer chains in granular packing. On the other hand, the glass transition of gelatinised starch (also thermoplastic starch) could not necessarily be detected by conventional DSC or MTDSC. However, by using a high‐speed DSC method, the extremely weak glass transition of the gelatinised starch with low moisture content could be enlarged and detected, which confirms the existence of glass transition of the gelatinised starch with low moisture content. This knowledge is helpful in the processing of starch‐based foods and polymeric materials.
Sin3a Is Required by Sertoli Cells to Establish a Niche for Undifferentiated Spermatogonia, Germ Cell Tumors, and Spermatid Elongation
Authors: Payne Christopher J. , Gallagher Shannon J. , Foreman Oded , Dannenberg Jan Hermen , Depinho Ronald A. , Braun Robert E.
Published: June 2010

Microenvironments support the maintenance of stem cells and the growth of tumors through largely unknown mechanisms. While cell-autonomous chromatin modifications have emerged as important determinants for self-renewal and differentiation of stem cells, a role for non-cell autonomous epigenetic contributions is not well established. Here, we genetically ablated the chromatin modifier Swi-independent 3a (Sin3a) in fetal Sertoli cells, which partly comprise the niche for male germline stem cells, and investigated its impact on spermatogenic cell fate and teratoma formation in vivo. Sertoli cell-specific Sin3a deletion resulted in the formation of few undifferentiated spermatogonia after birth while initially maintaining spermatogenic differentiation. Stem cell-associated markers Plzf, Gfra1, and Oct4 were downregulated in the mutant fetal gonad, while Sertoli cell markers Steel and Gdnf, which support germ cells, were not diminished. Following birth, markers of differentiating spermatogonia, Kit and Sohlh2, exhibited normal levels, but chemokine-signaling molecules chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 12 (CXCL12)/stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF1) and chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 4 (CXCR4), expressed in Sertoli cells and germ cells, respectively, were not detected. In the juvenile, mutant testes exhibited a progressive loss of differentiating spermatogonia and a block in spermatid elongation, followed by extensive germ cell degeneration. Sertoli cell-specific Sin3a deletion also suppressed teratoma formation by fetal germ cells in an in vivo transplantation assay. We conclude that the epigenome of Sertoli cells influences the establishment of a niche for germline stem cells as well as for tumor initiating cells.
ATP-Sensitive K+ Channel-Deficient Dilated Cardiomyopathy Proteome Remodeled by Embryonic Stem Cell Therapy
Authors: Zlatkovic-Lindor Jelena , Arrell D. Kent , Yamada Satsuki , Nelson Timothy J. , Terzic Andre
Published: June 2010

Transplantation of pluripotent stem cells has proven beneficial in heart failure, yet the proteomic landscape underlying repair remains largely uncharacterized. In a genetic model of dilated cardiomyopathy elicited by pressure overload in the KCNJ11 (potassium inwardly rectifying channel, subfamily J, member 11) null mutant, proteome-wide profiles were here resolved by means of a systems approach prior to and following disease manifestation in the absence or presence of embryonic stem cell treatment. Comparative two-dimensional gel electrophoresis revealed a unique cardiomyopathic proteome in the absence of therapy, remodeled in response to stem cell treatment. Specifically, linear ion trap quadrupole-Orbitrap mass spectrometry determined the identities of 93 and 109 differentially expressed proteins from treated and untreated cardiomyopathic hearts, respectively. Mapped protein–protein relationships and corresponding neighborhoods incorporated the stem cell-dependent subproteome into a nonstochastic network with divergent composition from the stem cell-independent counterpart. Stem cell intervention produced a distinct proteome signature across a spectrum of biological processes ranging from energetic metabolism, oxidoreductases, and stress-related chaperones to processes supporting protein synthesis/degradation, signaling, and transport regulation, cell structure and scaffolding. In the absence of treatment, bioinformatic interrogation of the disease-only proteome network prioritized adverse cardiac outcomes, ablated or ameliorated following stem cell transplantation. Functional and structural measurements validated improved myocardial contractile performance, reduced ventricular size and decreased cardiac damage in the treated cohort. Unbiased systems assessment unmasked “cardiovascular development” as a prioritized biological function in stem cell-reconstructed cardiomyopathic hearts. Thus, embryonic stem cell treatment transformed the cardiomyopathic proteome to demote disease-associated adverse effects and sustain a procardiogenic developmental response, supplying a regenerative substrate for heart failure repair.
Aberrant Epigenetic Silencing of Tumor Suppressor Genes Is Reversed by Direct Reprogramming
Authors: Ron-Bigger Shulamit , Bar-Nur Ori , Isaac Sara , Bocker Michael , Lyko Frank , Eden Amir
Published: June 2010

Direct reprogramming procedures reset the epigenetic memory of cells and convert differentiated somatic cells into pluripotent stem cells. In addition to epigenetic memory of cell identity, which is established during development, somatic cells can accumulate abnormal epigenetic changes that can contribute to pathological conditions. Aberrant promoter hypermethylation and epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) are now recognized as an important mechanism in tumor initiation and progression. Here, we have studied the fate of the silenced TSGs p16(CDKN2A) during direct reprogramming. We find that following reprogramming, p16 expression is restored and is stably maintained even when cells are induced to differentiate. Large-scale methylation profiling of donor cells identified aberrant methylation at hundreds of additional sites. Methylation at many, but not all these sites was reversed following reprogramming. Our results suggest that reprogramming approaches may be applied to repair the epigenetic lesions associated with cancer.
Fabrication of EuF3‐Mesocrystals in a Gel Matrix
Authors: Lausser Christine , Kumke Michael U. , Antonietti Markus , Cölfen Helmut
Published: June 2010

Europium(III) fluoride mesocrystals were synthesised in an organic matrix. This matrix is a gel formed by Eu3+ ions and a polycarboxylate/sulfonate copolymer, ACUSOL 588G. In the gel phase, the local amount of europium ions is very high since Eu3+ acts as a crosslinker, and crystallisation occurs upon addition of F–. Nucleated seed crystals in the gel phase grow by further ion attachment and form mesocrystals by mutual orientation of the EuF3 particles in the gel. We propose a dipole field as reason for this alignment and that the dipolar character of the particles originates from adsorption of the polyelectrolyte on charged crystal faces.
Crystal Structures of the Metal Diborides ReB2, RuB2, and OsB2 from Neutron Powder Diffraction
Authors: Frotscher Michael , Hölzel Markus , Albert Barbara
Published: June 2010

Because of the very small scattering power of the light element, the crystal structures of metal borides that contain heavy metal atoms are difficult to determine unambiguously from X‐ray diffraction data only. Using neutron diffraction methods and applying them to isotopically enriched 11B boride powders, the crystal structures of ReB2, RuB2, and OsB2 were re‐determined and analysed with respect to the boron atom arrangement. In accordance with the findings from X‐ray diffraction experiments, the structures exhibit corrugated boron atom layers of conjugated six‐rings, either seat‐like (ReB2) or boat‐like (RuB2, OsB2). ReB2 crystallises in the hexagonal crystal system, space group P63/mmc (no. 194, a = 290.05(1) pm, c = 747.72(1) pm); OsB2 and RuB2 are isostructural and crystallise orthorhombically, space group Pmmn (no. 59, a = 464.479(5) pm, b = 286.515(3) pm, c = 404.560(6) pm (RuB2); a = 468.408(5) pm, b = 287.255(3) pm, c = 407.693(6) pm (OsB2)). Boron–boron distances vary between 181.7 and 189.9 pm. For RuB2 and OsB2, shortest metal‐boron distances range from 217.2 to 217.3 pm, indicating a covalent interaction between metal and boron, compared to 222.7 pm for ReB2. Metal–metal distances are between 286.5 pm and 302.2 pm. All three compounds have been described as very hard or incompressible materials.
4‐[(E)‐2‐Phenylethenyl]‐2,6‐bis(2‐pyrazinyl)pyridine and its Dichlorocadmium(II) Complex: Synthesis, Luminescence, and Supramolecular Network
Authors: Dai Jing‐Wei , Li Zhao‐Yang , Chen Ying‐Lin , Cai Bin , Wu Jian‐Zhong , Yu Ying
Published: June 2010

A novel dipyrazinylpyridine ligand, 4‐[(E)‐2‐phenylethenyl]‐2,6‐bis(2‐pyrazinyl)pyridine (L) and its cadmium complex [CdLCl2] were synthesized and characterized. Structural analysis revealed that there are extensive C–H···N and C–H···π unconventional hydrogen bonds and π–π interactions in the crystal structure of L, whereas in [CdLCl2] rich C–H···Cl hydrogen bonding was the exclusive force in assembling the molecules and led to formation of a new 3,3,4,6‐nodal topological network. Spectral analysis suggested that the absorption and luminescence behavior of [CdLCl2] is ascribed to L based intraligand transitions. Coordination to CdIIdid not change the electronic structure of L but significantly enhanced the π* →nemission.
Li4Ca3Si2N6 and Li4Sr3Si2N6 – Quaternary Lithium Nitridosilicates with Isolated [Si2N6]10– Ions
Authors: Pagano Sandro , Lupart Saskia , Schmiechen Sebastian , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: June 2010

The isotypic nitridosilicates Li4Ca3Si2N6 and Li4Sr3Si2N6 were synthesized by reaction of strontium or calcium with Si(NH)2 and additional excess of Li3N in weld shut tantalum ampoules. The crystal structure, which has been solved by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (Li4Sr3Si2N6: C2/m, Z = 2, a = 6.1268(12), b = 9.6866(19), c = 6.2200(12) Å, β = 90.24(3)°, wR2 = 0.0903) is made up from isolated [Si2N6]10– ions and is isotypic to Li4Sr3Ge2N6. The bonding angels and distances within the edge‐sharing [Si2N6]10– double‐tetrahedra are strongly dependent on the lewis acidity of the counterions. This finding is discussed in relation to the compounds Ca5Si2N6 and Ba5Si2N6, which also exhibit isolated [Si2N6]10– ions.
Synthesis and Crystal Structures of Dinuclear Zinc Complexes with the 3,5‐Bis(pyridine‐2‐yl)pyrazolato Ligand
Authors: Kloubert Tobias , Görls Helmar , Westerhausen Matthias
Published: June 2010

Zincation of 3,5‐bis(pyridine‐2‐yl)pyrazole with Zn[E(SiMe3)2]2 in tetrahydrofuran yields dimeric 3,5‐bis(pyridine‐2‐yl)pyrazolato zinc bis(trimethylsilyl)amide (E = N, 1) and bis(trimethylsilyl)methanide (E = CH, 2). These complexes crystallize in the space groups $\rm P2_1/n$, respectively. The zinc atoms are in distorted tetrahedral environments. In the solid state the 3,5‐bis(pyridine‐2‐yl)pyrazolato anions act as bridging tridentate bases with one pyridyl group not participating in the coordination behavior. In solution, exchange processes, which are fast on the NMR time scale, lead to a single set of resonances for the pyridyl substituents.
Fatal Acute Pancreatitis Occurring Outside of the Hospital: Clinical and Social Characteristics
Authors: Andersson Bodil , Ansari Daniel , Andersson Ellen , Persson Sixten , Andersson Roland
Published: June 2010

Background

Mortality caused by acute pancreatitis in patients admitted to the hospital has been thoroughly investigated, but knowledge regarding outpatient fatalities is far from complete. The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence and clinical characteristics of patients who have died due to acute pancreatitis occurring outside the hospital.

Methods

Deaths caused by acute pancreatitis in the southern part of Sweden during 1994–2008 were identified at the Department of Forensic Medicine, Lund. A retrospective review of all cases was performed.

Results

A total of 50 patients were included, representing approximately 50 of 292 (17%) of all deaths due to acute pancreatitis in the region during this period of time. Median age was 54 (47–69) years and the majority—37 (74%)—were men. The main etiology was alcohol, seen in at least 35 (70%) patients. Twelve (24%) patients were obese. The duration of abdominal pain, in evaluable cases, was 3.0 (1.6–6.2) days. Profound signs of pancreatitis were seen in all patients; 35 (70%) had a necrotising disease according to histopathological examination. Pulmonary changes were common, e.g., bronchopneumonia, pleural effusion, or edema, and all but four had fatty liver. Massive intra‐abdominal bleeding was seen in one patient. At least eight patients had a mental disorder, and three were homeless.

Conclusions

Fatal acute pancreatitis occurring outside the hospital accounts for a substantial part of all deaths due to the disease. The incidence seems to decline, and no variation in season was seen. Alcohol was the predominant etiology. Many of the patients lived alone and in poor social conditions.
Plastics from an Improved Canola Protein Isolate: Preparation and Properties
Authors: Manamperi Wajira A. R. , Chang Sam K. C. , Ulven Chad A. , Pryor Scott W.
Published: June 2010

Canola meal proteins were solubilized from canola flour at pH 12 using sodium hydroxide solution. Proteins were then precipitated sequentially at pH values ranging from 11 to 3 in decrements of 1 pH unit. The weight distribution and the properties of these fractions were analyzed. The majority (>76%) of the recovered proteins were precipitated at pH values at or below 7. Another substantial fraction was precipitated at pH 11. The functional and thermal property (differential scanning calorimetry) analyses showed that this protein fraction exhibits the highest water holding capacity and lowest melting point. The plastics prepared with refined protein isolates (with pH 11 fraction removed) showed higher water resistance, tensile, and flexural strength, toughness, and elongation values compared to those prepared with standard canola protein isolates. This shows that mechanical and water resistance properties of protein‐based plastics can be enhanced using improved protein isolates.
Ultrasound features of deep-seated lipomas
Authors: Paunipagar Bhawan K. , Griffith James F. , Rasalkar Darshana D. , Chow L. T. C. , Kumta S. M. , Ahuja Anil
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The objective of this study was to describe the sonographic features of deep-seated lipomas.

Methods

A retrospective review of the sonographic features of 64 deep seated lipomas in 64 patients (43 females, 21 males, mean age 46.5, range 16–77 years) seen over an 8-year period (1998–2006) was undertaken.

Results

Features evaluated were location, size, shape, marginal definition, internal echogenicity, including the presence of intermingled muscle fibres and linear internal echoes, acoustic transmission and vascularity. Confirmation was histological in 37 (58%) cases and by typical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearance in 27 (42%) cases.

Conclusion

The results show that although the features of deep-seated lipoma are more variable than those reported for subcutaneous lipomas, the presence of thin internal echoes in conjunction with other less specific features should enable a correct diagnosis.
Consumer Perceived Importance of Channel Authorization: APost HocSegmentation Approach to Dealing with Gray Markets
Authors: Lee Bruce C.Y.
Published: June 2010

Gray markets have long raised problems for international firms. From the consumer's perspective, the major difference between a gray market and a white market is channel authorization. However, there is no research yet that addresses consumer perceived importance of channel authorization. This study uses conjoint analysis to investigate empirically consumer perceived importance of channel authorization. Furthermore, a two-stage post hoc segmentation approach is suggested to segment and identify potential gray-market customers, and thus help brand managers address gray-market problems. Our results show that channel authorization is important to most consumers. The partial utility of channel authorization of durable goods seems to be higher than that of non-durable goods. For both durable and non-durable goods, potential gray-market customers seem to be less frequent users, less familiar with the product, and have lower income. Having identified the characteristics and preferences of consumers in various segments, brand managers are more able to tackle the threat of gray markets.
A Study of Brand Equity in a Commodity Market
Authors: Morrison Mark , Eastburn Mark
Published: June 2010

Most previous studies of the factors that influence brand equity have focused on non-commodities. This study examines the factors that influence brand equity for a commodity – branded beef. Branding remains in a fairly nascent state within the Australian domestic beef market. Several brands have begun to emerge in recent years including Certified Angus, 1824, Hereford Prime, Stockyard Beef and Diamantina. However, these primarily cater for the food service markets rather than household trade. This is in contrast to other countries, such as the US, where branded beef makes up a large proportion of the domestic market. Using conditional and random parameter logit models, we examine the willingness of consumers to pay for one type of branded beef, as well as specific beef attributes, in a regional area of NSW. We find that there is evidence that segments of the population would be willing to pay for branded beef. We also investigate whether brand equity for beef is moderated by self-image congruence, perceived quality and consumer involvement. Both perceived quality and self-image congruence were found to significantly moderate brand equity.
Service Satisfiers and Dissatisfiers among Malaysian Consumers
Authors: Kueh Karen
Published: June 2010

Much research has focused on identifying the dimensions of service quality based on the assumption that each dimension contributes equally to customer satisfaction and dissatisfaction. Limited study has been done to investigate whether separate factors may act as satisfiers and dissatisfiers. This paper examines the issue using a sample of critical incidents collected from Malaysian consumers across a broad range of service industries. It was found that the determinants of satisfaction and dissatisfaction need not be the same. The type of service industry is also significantly associated with the nature of the service encounter. Results suggest that different service quality dimensions are important in affecting customer satisfaction depending on the type of service industry. The similarity of the findings with previous studies raises the possibility of a generic dimension to service satisfiers and dissatisfiers across different industries and cultures.
How Retail Category Differences Moderate Retailer Perceptions of Manufacturer Brands
Authors: Glynn Mark S.
Published: June 2010

This article examines how the type of product category influences manufacturer-retailer relationships involving manufacturer brands. Category management is a key retailer management mechanism, but this topic has not been addressed in the context of purchasing manufacturer brands. This study examined retailer perceptions of manufacturer brands across eight product categories and the effects on retailer relationship outcomes including satisfaction, trust, commitment and performance. A significant difference in model parameters was initially identified between the two liquor and six grocery categories. The effect of this difference on the retailer relationship outcomes with manufacturer brands was then assessed using multi-group structural equation modelling. There were no differences between the categories in terms of the effect of brand benefits on retailer satisfaction with the brand and the subsequent effect of satisfaction on retailer commitment and trust. However, the impact of retailer satisfaction with the brand on brand performance expectations was greater for liquor brands than for brands in the grocery categories. The results indicate a retailer's assessment of a brand's performance within the store environment depends on the role of the category as well as satisfaction with the brand.
Measuring Customer Based Brand Equity Using Hierarchical Bayes Methodology
Authors: Sinha Ashish , Ashill Nicholas J , Gazley Aaron
Published: June 2010

In this paper, we propose a method to measure brand equity in a product category at the individual level that allows managers to parcel out brand equity into its respective components and estimate the relative importance of these components. The monetary equivalent value for each of the sub-components of brand equity is calculated. Two new measures for evaluating the long-term health of a brand are also proposed. A nested design based on conjoint methodology, coupled with a hierarchical linear Bayes model, is used to estimate brand equity. The methodology is applied to the Television category and its applicability to managerial decision-making is shown.
A Measurement of Emotional Intelligence in Service Encounters
Authors: Mok Wai-Hoe , Tsarenko Yelena , Gabbott Mark
Published: June 2010

The concept of Emotional Intelligence appears to be able to provide the premise to describe customer aptitude in managing emotions elicited in a service exchange, as well as provide the precedential link to understand customer affective responses. However, given that research in the commercial implications of emotional intelligence has focused predominantly in management literature, no widely accepted scale has yet been developed to assess implications of customer's emotional intelligence in a service context. This paper outlines the development of a new measure, the Customer Emotional Intelligence Scale (CEIS), an adaptation of the Workplace Emotional Intelligence Profile version 3 (WEIP-3) which was designed to profile the emotional intelligence of customers in the context of service encounters. Empirical investigation conducted in the context of service industry supported multidimensionality of the CEIS. Discussion in this paper focuses on the application of the scale in services marketing while outlining avenues for future research.
Professional Service Firms are Relationship Marketers: But Does Size Matter?
Authors: McColl-Kennedy Janet R. , Sweeney Jillian C. , Soutar Geoffrey N , Amonini Claudia
Published: June 2010

There are few research-based insights into professional service firms’ (PSFs) contemporary marketing practices. This is unfortunate as the professional services sector is a key contributor to growth in the Australian and other economies around the world. As professional services are unique in a number of ways and their operations and marketing activities inextricably intertwined, the present study investigated the extent to which PSFs practice marketing and whether this differs according to size. Depth interviews were held with thirty seven Australian senior managers in four key industries. We examined the extent of relationship marketing, conceptualised at an overall managerial level as well as four sub-practices identified in research by Coviello and colleagues. We found relationship management and interaction marketing were the most common practices, which is consistent with the inseparability concept, and that relationship management and database marketing were more common in larger firms, which is consistent with their relative resource strength.
Is There any Hope? The Idea of Strategy in Business Networks
Authors: Ford David , Mouzas Stefanos
Published: June 2010

This paper explores some of the implications for the idea of business strategy of the networks of interlocking interdependencies which comprise the business landscape. The paper proposes a framework for analysing the strategic situations facing companies in business networks and for developing business strategy within them. The central message of the paper is that in the complex networks in which companies operate, business strategy cannot realistically be regarded as an individual-company activity.

The paper argues that in these circumstances, strategy is more usefully conceived of as a matrix of interdependencies that connects the structure and process of a network and that confronts the existing with the evolving.

This structure and process provide an array of evolving possibilities for the choices of any one actor and others, whether they are suppliers, customers, competitors or development partners.

The paper argues that the strategy of a single company can usefully be interpreted as part of the process of interaction through which the company and others confront aspects of the status quo with new evolving possibilities, whilst conforming to other existing patterns within the network.