bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fourier synthesis techniques for NMR spectroscopy in inhomogeneous fields
Authors: Arthanari H. , Frueh D. , Wagner G. , Pryor B. , Khaneja N.
Published: June 2008

This paper describes a method for synthesizing spin rotations with arbitrary space dependence on a sample of noninteracting spin 12 by using nonselective radio frequency pulses and pulsed field gradients. This method is used to map out spatial distribution of inhomogeneous B0 field and to engineer a space dependent evolution of spins that cancels the space dependent phase spins acquire when precessing in an inhomogeneous magnetic field. The technique allows one to record high resolution spectra in inhomogeneous magnetic field by using only time varying linear gradients and rf fields and is expected to find applications in ex situ NMR.
Cauchy relation in relaxing liquids
Authors: Fioretto Daniele , Corezzi Silvia , Caponi Silvia , Scarponi Filippo , Monaco Giulio , Fontana Aldo , Palmieri Luciano
Published: June 2008

The Cauchy-like relation M∞=A+BG∞ has recently been found to hold for the high frequency limit values of the longitudinal modulus M∞ and transverse modulus G∞ of viscoelastic liquids, with B≃3 in all the investigated systems. The Brillouin scattering results here reported for curing epoxy systems and thermal glass formers give evidence for the validity of a Cauchy-like relation M′=A+BG′ for the real part of the elastic moduli measured at finite frequencies. Our results suggest as well the validity of a pure Cauchy relation ΔM=3 ΔG for the relaxation strengths of longitudinal and shear moduli in relaxing liquids.
Highly efficient broadband second harmonic generation using polydomain epitaxial barium titanate thin film waveguides
Authors: Lin Pao Tai , Wessels B. W. , Jang Joon I. , Ketterson J. B.
Published: June 2008

Broad band second harmonic generation (SHG) over the spectral range of 530–700nm is reported using an epitaxial barium titanate (BaTiO3) thin film waveguide. The epitaxial layers are multidomain consisting of both a and c domain variants. The SHG conversion efficiency is nearly independent of wavelength over the visible spectra range. An enhanced broadband conversion efficiency was observed that is attributed to random quasi-phase matching in the polydomain epitaxial layers. In contrast to theory of SHG for disordered nonlinear media, the observed SHG shows a quadratic dependence on pump power.
On the role of surface tensions and process conditions in detachment nanolithography
Authors: Kim Jae Kwan , Suh Kahp Y.
Published: June 2008

We report on the role of intrinsic (adhesion force and wettability) and extrinsic (temperature and pressure) conditions to fabricate dense nanoscale patterns in detachment nanolithography. A phase diagram is constructed by using a rigiflex polymeric mold, an organic film, and silicon or gold substrate. Operating conditions in terms of surface tensions and processing parameters are discussed along with comparison of the minimum resolution with a simple theory.
Analysis of magnetic probe signals including effect of cylindrical conducting wall for field-reversed configuration experiment
Authors: Ikeyama Taeko , Hiroi Masanori , Nemoto Yuuichi , Nogi Yasuyuki
Published: June 2008

A confinement field is disturbed by magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) motions of a field-reversed configuration (FRC) plasma in a cylindrical conductor. The effect of the conductor should be included to obtain a spatial structure of the disturbed field with a good precision. For this purpose, a toroidal current in the plasma and an eddy current on a conducting wall are replaced by magnetic dipole and image magnetic dipole moments, respectively. Typical spatial structures of the disturbed field are calculated by using the dipole moments for such MHD motions as radial shift, internal tilt, external tilt, and n=2 mode deformation. Then, analytic formulas for estimating the shift distance, tilt angle, and deformation rate of the MHD motions from magnetic probe signals are derived. It is estimated from the calculations by using the dipole moments that the analytic formulas include an approximately 40% error. Two kinds of experiment are carried out to investigate the reliability of the calculations. First, a magnetic field produced by a circular current is measured in an aluminum pipe to confirm the replacement of the eddy current with the image magnetic dipole moments. The measured fields coincide well with the calculated values including the image magnetic dipole moments. Second, magnetic probe signals measured from the FRC plasma are substituted into the analytic formulas to obtain shift distance and deformation rate. The experimental results are compared to the MHD motions measured by using a radiation from the plasma. If the error included in the analytic formulas and the difference between the magnetic and optical structures in the plasma are considered, the results of the radiation measurement support well those of the magnetic analysis.
Self-consistent coupling between driven electron tunneling and electromagnetic propagation at terahertz frequencies
Authors: Oriols X. , Boano F. , Alarcón A.
Published: June 2008

An accurate procedure for coupling (time-dependent) driven electron tunneling and electromagnetic propagation at terahertz frequencies cannot be developed neither with equivalent electric-circuit approximations nor using standard electromagnetic solvers. Alternatively, in this work, a full-physical time-dependent self-consistent algorithm for such coupling is presented. In order to demonstrate the numerical viability of the algorithm and to show the great interest of driven electron tunneling devices for terahertz applications, a transistorlike tunneling device (coupled to lossy transmission lines) is designed for developing a rectifier, a harmonic generator, and an amplitude modulator at terahertz frequencies.
Closing the lid on DNA end-to-end stacking interactions
Authors: Li Li , Pabit Suzette A. , Lamb Jessica S. , Park Hye Yoon , Pollack Lois
Published: June 2008

Recent experiments suggest that short DNA strands associate by end-to-end stacking. Here, we report interactions between DNAs with modified ends. DNA duplexes, 20bp long, were capped with short T4 loops at 2, 1 or 0 ends, and were placed in solutions containing 20mM Mg2+. Association was observed only in constructs with one or more uncapped ends. DNA-DNA interactions were characterized by measuring variations in small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) curves at the lowest scattering angles. Second virial coefficients were computed from the SAXS data. Our results confirm that end-to-end stacking plays an important role in short strand DNA-DNA interactions.
Efficient deep-blue phosphorescent organic light-emitting device with improved electron and exciton confinement
Authors: Zheng Ying , Eom Sang-Hyun , Chopra Neetu , Lee Jaewon , So Franky , Xue Jiangeng
Published: June 2008

We report a significant improvement in the efficiency of deep-blue phosphorescent organic light-emitting devices based on the electrophosphorescent dye bis(4′,6′-difluorophenylpyridinato)tetrakis (1-pyrazolyl) borate (FIr6). Using 1,1-bis[(di-4-tolylamino)phenyl]cyclohexane (TAPC) as the hole transport layer (HTL), we achieved a maximum external quantum efficiency of ηEQE=(18±1)%, which is approximately 50% higher than ηEQE=12% in a previously reported device with bis[N-(1-naphthyl)-N-phenyl-amino]biphenyl as the HTL. The maximum luminous power efficiency was also improved from (14±1)lm∕W to (18±1)lm∕W. We attribute this efficiency improvement to the enhanced electron and exciton confinement provided by TAPC.
High mobility indium free amorphous oxide thin film transistors
Authors: Fortunato Elvira M. C. , Pereira Luís M. N. , Barquinha Pedro M. C. , Botelho do Rego Ana M. , Gonçalves Gonçalo , Vilà Anna , Morante Juan R. , Martins Rodrigo F. P.
Published: June 2008

High mobility bottom gate thin film transistors (TFTs) with an amorphous gallium tin zinc oxide (a-GSZO) channel layer have been produced by rf magnetron cosputtering using a gallium zinc oxide (GZO) and tin (Sn) targets. The effect of postannealing temperatures (200, 250, and 300°C) was evaluated and compared with two series of TFTs produced at room temperature (S1) and 150°C (S2) during the channel deposition. From the results, it was observed that the effect of postannealing is crucial for both series of TFTs either for stability as well as for improving the electrical characteristics. The a-GSZO TFTs (W∕L=50∕50μm) operate in the enhancement mode (n-type), present a high saturation mobility of 24.6cm2∕Vs, a subthreshold gate swing voltage of 0.38V/decade, a turn-on voltage of −0.5V, a threshold voltage of 4.6V, and an Ion∕Ioff ratio of 8×107, satisfying all the requirements to be used as active-matrix backplane.
The role of dipolar interactions for the determination of intrinsic switching field distributions
Authors: Liu Yang , Dahmen Karin A. , Berger A.
Published: June 2008

The ΔH(M,ΔM) method and its ability to determine intrinsic switching field distributions of perpendicular recording media are numerically studied. It is found that the presence of dipolar interactions in the range of typical recording media substantially enhances the reliability of the ΔH(M,ΔM) method. In addition, a strong correlation is observed between the precision of this method and a self-consistency check of the data sets, which is based upon a simple redundancy measure. This suggests that the latter can be utilized as an efficient criterion to decide if a complete data analysis is warranted or not.
Two dimensional expansion effects on angular distribution of 13.5nm in-band extreme ultraviolet emission from laser-produced Sn plasma
Authors: Sequoia K. L. , Tao Y. , Yuspeh S. , Burdt R. , Tillack M. S.
Published: June 2008

The angular distribution of extreme ultraviolet emission at 13.5nm within 2% bandwidth was characterized for laser irradiated, planar, Sn targets at prototypic conditions for a lithography system. We have found that two dimensional plasma expansion plays a key role in the distribution of in-band 13.5nm emission under these conditions. The angular distribution was found to have two peaks at 45° and 15°. This complex angular distribution arises from the shape of both the emitting plasma and the surrounding absorbing plasma. This research reveals that the detailed angular distribution can be important to the deduction of conversion efficiency.
Optical properties of Ti3SiC2 and Ti4AlN3
Authors: Li S. , Ahuja R. , Barsoum M. W. , Jena P. , Johansson B.
Published: June 2008

The dielectric functions of the MAX phases, Ti3SiC2 and Ti4AlN3, have been determined from first principles calculations. We compared the dielectric functions and the reflectivity spectra of Ti3SiC2 and Ti4AlN3 with those of TiC and TiN. The optical spectra were analyzed by means of the electronic structure, which provides theoretical understanding of the conduction mechanism of these two phases. We found that Ti4AlN3 can be used to avoid solar heating and also increase the radiative cooling due to the increased thermal emittance as compared to TiN. Ti4AlN3 can therefore be a candidate coating material for temperature control of space vehicles.
Transparent organic bistable memory device with pure organic active material and Al/indium tin oxide electrode
Authors: Yook Kyoung Soo , Lee Jun Yeob , Kim Sung Hyun , Jang Jyongsik
Published: June 2008

Transparent organic bistable memory devices (OBDs) were developed by employing indium tin oxide (ITO) as an anode and a cathode for OBD. A cathode structure of aluminum (Al)/ITO was used and bistability could be realized with pure polyphenylenevilylene based polymer active material without any metal nanoparticle. Transmittance of over 50% could be obtained in Al/ITO based OBD at an Al thickness of 10nm, and an average on/off ratio around 100 was observed.
Silica-nanoparticle-doped nematic display with multistable and dynamic modes
Authors: Huang Chi-Yen , Lai Chien-Cheng , Tseng Yao-Hsien , Yang Ya-Ting , Tien Ching-Jui , Lo Kuang-Yao
Published: June 2008

We demonstrate a silica-nanoparticle-doped hybrid-aligned nematic device, which can be operated in the dynamic mode and the multistable mode. Under ac voltage excitation, the interfacial polarization effect between the homogeneously dispersed nanoparticles and the liquid crystal (LC) host reduces the dielectric relaxation time of the LC-silica dispersion, giving the LC cell a fast response time for the dynamic mode. Under dc voltage excitation, the silica nanoparticles accumulated on the planar side of the cell, creating agglomerates to stabilize the homeotropically aligned LCs, which is retained after switching off the voltage, giving the cell bistable/multistable switching characteristics.
Origin of deformation twinning from grain boundary in copper
Authors: Han W. Z. , Wu S. D. , Li S. X. , Zhang Z. F.
Published: June 2008

The occurrence of deformation twinning in face-centered-cubic (fcc) crystals with medium to high stacking fault energy is normally very difficult. Through specially designing the orientation of Cu single crystal, the authors do not only observe profuse nanoscale deformation twins with a tower shape originating from grain boundary but also find some of them terminated in the interior of the grain. The observations clearly prove that the deformation twinning can nucleate through successively emitting partials from grain boundaries, indicating the ubiquity of deformation twinning even in those fcc single crystals deformed at suitable conditions.
Evidence of large high frequency complete phononic band gaps in silicon phononic crystal plates
Authors: Mohammadi Saeed , Eftekhar Ali Asghar , Khelif Abdelkrim , Hunt William D. , Adibi Ali
Published: June 2008

We show the evidence of the existence of large complete phononic band gaps (CPBGs) in two-dimensional phononic crystals (PCs) formed by embedding cylindrical air holes in a solid plate (slab). The PC structure is made by etching a hexagonal array of air holes through a freestanding plate of silicon. A fabrication process compatible with metal-oxide-semiconductor technology is used on silicon-on-insulator substrate to realize the PC devices. Measuring the transmission of elastic waves through eight layers of the hexagonal lattice PC in the ΓK direction, more than 30dB attenuation is observed at a high frequency; i.e., 134MHz, with a band gap to midgap ratio of 23%. We show that this frequency region matches very well with the expected CPBG found through theoretical calculations.
Characterization of electronic structure and defect states of thin epitaxial BiFeO3 films by UV-visible absorption and cathodoluminescence spectroscopies
Authors: Hauser A. J. , Zhang J. , Mier L. , Ricciardo R. A. , Woodward P. M. , Gustafson T. L. , Brillson L. J. , Yang F. Y.
Published: June 2008

UV-visible absorption and cathodoluminescence spectra of phase-pure epitaxial BiFeO3 thin films grown on SrTiO3(001) substrates by ultrahigh vacuum sputtering reveal a bandgap of 2.69–2.73eV for highly strained ∼70nm thick BiFeO3 films. This bandgap value agrees with theoretical calculations and recent experimental results of epitaxial BiFeO3 films, demonstrating only minimal bandgap change with lattice distortion. Both absorption and cathodoluminescence spectra show defect transitions at 2.20 and 2.45eV, of which the latter can be attributed to defect states due to oxygen vacancies.
Impact of GaN buffer layer on the growth and properties of InN islands
Authors: Laboutin O. A. , Welser R. E.
Published: June 2008

Uncapped InN islands are grown on GaN buffer layers by low pressure metal-organic chemical vapor deposition. The buffer layer threading dislocation density is intentionally altered via the GaN growth pressure, as indicated by both the x-ray diffraction and atomic force microscopy. InN island density and size vary markedly depending on the threading dislocation density in the buffer layers. Islands grown on the buffer layers with reduced threading dislocation densities exhibit narrow x-ray diffraction peaks and strong room temperature photoluminescence.
Exploring the sensitivity of thermal imaging for Plasmopara viticola pathogen detection in grapevines under different water status
Authors: Stoll Manfred , Schultz Hans R. , Berkelmann-Loehnertz Beate
Published: June 2008

The effect on spatial variability of leaf temperature of inoculating grapevine leaves (Vitis vinifera L. cv. Riesling) with a fungal pathogen (Plasmopara viticola) was studied in either well irrigated or non-irrigated plants. The results from thermal imagery were compared with stomatal conductance measured by leaf gas exchange. The high sensitivity of leaf temperature to stomatal conductance means that infrared thermography can be used to monitor irregularities in temperature at an early stage of development after either infection or other stress-related changes affecting the amount of water transpired. Contrasting thermal effects due to the pathogen attack were found between measurements on well irrigated and water stressed plants. With irrigated vines, pathogen development caused an increase in leaf temperature at the point of infection. In contrast, under severe water stress, the inoculated plants showed a lower temperature at the sites of inoculation compared with the rest of the leaf. Analysis of the spatial and temporal sensitivity of the temperature profile, obtained from the deviation of individual pixels from the mean along a straight line, successfully distinguished between healthy and infected positions on the leaf irrespective of the plant water status. Under greenhouse conditions and for predefined areas of the leaf surface, evidence was also acquired for characteristic thermal responses to be apparent not later than 4 days past inoculation; that is, at least 3 days before visible symptoms appeared. Thus, early and remote detection using thermal imagery has the potential for pre-symptomatic diagnosis of biotic stress.
Regulation of Ku gene promoters in Arabidopsis by hormones and stress
Authors: Chang Wen-Chi , Wang Yung-Kai , Liu Pei-Feng , Tsai Yu-Fang , Kong Lih-Ren , Lin Chi-Kai , Yang Chang-Hsien , Pan Rong-Long
Published: June 2008

The Ku70/Ku80 heterodimer plays a crucial role in non-homologous end-joining during DNA repair, and is also involved in multiple cellular processes such as telomere maintenance, transcription, and apoptosis. In this study, we investigate the regulation of AtKu genes in higher plants. Promoters of the AtKu70 and AtKu80 were isolated from Arabidopsis and their activities characterised using GUS reporter constructs. AtKu promoter activities were relatively higher in hypocotyls and cotyledons upon germination and in stigma and siliques as well at their early developing stages. Furthermore, AtKu promoter activities could be enhanced by gibberellic acid, auxins, and jasmonic acid, but repressed by abscisic acid, salicylic acid, heat, drought and cold, respectively. Deletion analysis demonstrates minimal lengths of ~400 bp and 600 bp upstream of transcription start site for functional promoters of AtKu70 and AtKu80, respectively. Taken together, expressions of Ku genes are regulated both by developmental programs as well as by plant hormones and environmental stresses.
Putrescine enhancement of tolerance to root-zone hypoxia in Cucumis sativus: a role for increased nitrate reduction
Authors: Shi Kai , Ding Xiao-Tao , Dong De-Kun , Zhou Yan-Hong , Yu Jing Quan
Published: June 2008

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) plants were subjected to hypoxic stress with or without a pretreatment of putrescine (Put) to investigate whether nitrate reduction is involved in the enhancement effects of Put on tolerance to root-zone hypoxia. Both hypoxic stress and exogenous Put application significantly increased the contents of endogenous Put, spermidine and spermine. Plants grown under hypoxic conditions exhibited reductions in plant growth rate, NAD+/NADH ratio, ATP concentration, and consequent lowered cell viability in roots. The detrimental effects, however, were significantly alleviated by the addition of Put into the nutrient solution 24 h before the administration of hypoxia. Transcript levels of NR (nitrate reductase) and its cofactor binding domain genes FAD (FAD binding) and CYP51G1 (Heme binding), the activity of nitrate reductase (NR, EC 1.6.6.1) and the nitrate reduction process were each greatly enhanced by Put application, particularly in roots exposed to hypoxia. Lactate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.27) activity was independent of aeration condition and Put application, whereas alcohol dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.1) activity was significantly increased after exposure to hypoxia, but did not increase after Put application. Put failed to alleviate the hypoxia injury of root electrolyte leakage when NR was inhibited by tungstate in the nutrient solution. These results suggest that Put enhances tolerance to hypoxia by increasing the transcript levels of NR and its cofactor binding domain genes, thereby stimulating the activities of NR and nitrate reduction to maintain the redox and energy status.
Ecology of meadow steppe in northeast China
Authors: Wang D. , Ba L.
Published: June 2008

Native grassland in China is mostly meadow, typical or desert steppe and comprises 400 million hectares, ~40% of the land area. We review past research on the meadow steppe of north-east China. Our foci are plant adaptation to climate, edaphic-related and defoliation stresses, vegetation production, grassland management, herbivore foraging behaviour, safe stocking rates, plant-animal interactions, ecosystem functioning, conservation of biodiversity and the influence of climate change on grassland function. Recent studies have provided some insights into ecological processes and functioning of meadow steppe, and have enabled better identification of research opportunities. Key areas identified for future research include plant adaptation, grassland function and value, monitoring of range health, ecological consequences of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem function.
Perspectives on livestock production systems in China
Authors: Li X. L. , Yuan Q. H. , Wan L. Q. , He F.
Published: June 2008

This review paper describes the livestock production systems in China, their status and trends, driving factors, and major issues with profound impact. Three distinct livestock production systems are discussed; grazing, mixed farming, and industrial systems. The ‘grazing system’ is generally characterised by harsh climate, rangeland, and low livestock output. Market forces, biophysical constraints and environmental concerns are putting a ceiling on the potential for intensification of the grazing system except in some areas where the agro-ecological potential permits. This system needs to be re-oriented towards adding ecosystem service provision, rather than mere production or subsistence. The ‘mixed farming system’, with the highest share of most kinds of livestock commodities, forms the backbone of China’s agriculture and is undertaking a notable intensification and specialisation process. The ‘industrial system’ is geographically concentrated in areas close to densely populated demand centers. Although growing fast, the share of national livestock output remains relatively small. The past two decades have seen a rapid growth in both consumption and production of livestock food products in China. This new food revolution has been driven to a great extent by the rapid growing economy, personal income and urbanisation. Among the most important issues related to livestock production systems in China are severe rangeland degradation, caused mainly by overexploitation of these lands, increasing demand and competition for feed grain, and environmental and public health risks associated with industrialised livestock production. China will have to cope with such challenges through proper policy and technological interventions to sustain the livestock development and simultaneously secure the natural resources and environmental health.
The yak grazing system on the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau and its status
Authors: Long R. J. , Ding L. M. , Shang Z. H. , Guo X. H.
Published: June 2008

Yaks are a multifunctional and dominant livestock species on the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau. The yak grazing system is a traditional transhumance system. Research is focussed on both understanding and improving the system. Development of local economies and the use of new knowledge from yak research and modern technology are improving the system. However, the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau ecosystem is becoming dysfunctional through adverse climate sequences, over-population and over-grazing. The Chinese Government has implemented regional projects to address these degradation problems. Several policies have recently been introduced to improve yak grazing management. This paper reviews current knowledge on the system and the options for improving and optimising the system.
Dating the late prehistoric dispersal of Polynesians to New Zealand using the commensal Pacific rat
Authors: Wilmshurst Janet M. , Anderson Atholl J. , Higham Thomas F. G. , Worthy Trevor H.
Published: June 2008

The pristine island ecosystems of East Polynesia were among the last places on Earth settled by prehistoric people, and their colonization triggered a devastating transformation. Overhunting contributed to widespread faunal extinctions and the decline of marine megafauna, fires destroyed lowland forests, and the introduction of the omnivorous Pacific rat (
Rattus exulans
) led to a new wave of predation on the biota. East Polynesian islands preserve exceptionally detailed records of the initial prehistoric impacts on highly vulnerable ecosystems, but nearly all such studies are clouded by persistent controversies over the timing of initial human colonization, which has resulted in proposed settlement chronologies varying from ≈200 B.C. to 1000 A.D. or younger. Such differences underpin radically divergent interpretations of human dispersal from West Polynesia and of ecological and social transformation in East Polynesia and ultimately obfuscate the timing and patterns of this process. Using New Zealand as an example, we provide a reliable approach for accurately dating initial human colonization on Pacific islands by radiocarbon dating the arrival of the Pacific rat. Radiocarbon dates on distinctive rat-gnawed seeds and rat bones show that the Pacific rat was introduced to both main islands of New Zealand ≈1280 A.D., a millennium later than previously assumed. This matches with the earliest-dated archaeological sites, human-induced faunal extinctions, and deforestation, implying there was no long period of invisibility in either the archaeological or palaeoecological records.
Improving part-of-speech guessing of Chinese unknown words using hybrid models
Authors: Lu Xiaofei
Published: June 2008

This paper presents a hybrid model for part-of-speech (POS) guessing of Chinese unknown words. Most previous studies on this task have developed a unified statistical model for all Chinese unknown words and have rejected rule-based models without testing. We argue that models that use different sources of information about unknown words, both structural and contextual, can be effective for handling different types of unknown words. We propose a rule-based model that uses information about the type, length, and internal structure of unknown words and combine it with two existing statistical models that use information about the POS context and component characters of unknown words respectively for this task. By combining the complementary strengths of the three models that use different sources of information, the hybrid model achieves an accuracy of 89%, a significant improvement over the best result reported in previous studies.
Learning behavior fusion from demonstration
Authors: Nicolescu Monica , Jenkins Odest Chadwicke , Olenderski Adam , Fritzinger Eric
Published: June 2008

A critical challenge in robot learning from demonstration is the ability to map the behavior of the trainer onto a robot’s existing repertoire of basic/primitive capabilities. In part, this problem is due to the fact that the observed behavior of the teacher may consist of a combination (or superposition) of the robot’s individual primitives. The problem becomes more complex when the task involves temporal sequences of goals. We introduce an autonomous control architecture that allows for learning of hierarchical task representations, in which: (1) every goal is achieved through a linear superposition (or fusion) of robot primitives and (2) sequencing across goals is achieved through arbitration. We treat learning of the appropriate superposition as a state estimation problem over the space of possible linear fusion weights, inferred through a particle filter. We validate our approach in both simulated and real world environments with a Pioneer 3DX mobile robot.
(Small) Enterpreneurs first!
Authors: Coffé Hilde
Published: June 2008

A large body of research on political parties is devoted to the family of extreme right parties. Yet, systematic analyses of extreme right parties discourse remain scarce. The present study addresses this gap in the literature by providing a discourse analysis of the Vlaams Belang, one of the most successful extreme right-wing parties in Europe. Moreover, by focusing on this partys economic discourse, the study also sheds new light on the ongoing debate about the economic viewpoints of the new extreme right parties. We conclude that the Vlaams Belangs economic rhetoric is in line with its ethno-linguistic, nationalist standpoints and pleas for a Flemish economic policy. The partys economic programme is built on liberal points of view and seems particularly aimed at attracting (dissatisfied) liberal voters. Importantly, as economic issues remain subordinated to the partys ideological core, it appears that the Vlaams Belang has largely instrumentalised its programme to expand its electorate.
Ballistic missile defense and articulation theory
Authors: Sikka Tina
Published: June 2008

In this paper, I use articulation theory to examine the political discourse which surrounds the Bush Administrations proposed ballistic missile defense shield. I argue that there are three central articulations used by the Bush Administration to garner public support for the ballistic missile defense shield. They are: 1) the articulation of missile defense with national security; 2) the unity formed out of terrorism and the threat of a missile attack by rogue states; and 3) the articulation of missile defense with technological inevitability and progress. I illustrate how these dominant articulations discursively serve to garner support for the proposed shield by setting the parameters around which discussions of missile defense can take place. My primary argument is that the discursive unities made by the Bush Administration out of such elements as terrorism, technology, progress, and capitalism functions to perpetuate and justify a larger American project of exceptionalism, unilateralism, and military hegemony.
‘Veto the war but let no French head fall’
Authors: Anchimbe Eric A.
Published: June 2008

The eve of the ongoing Iraq war was a decisive moment for world leaders since they, given American pressure, had to choose between being with US or with the enemies. It meant treading on potentially threatening issues that could harm inter-national alliances and friendships. This paper illustrates using transcripts of Jacques Chiracs (then French president) interviews the linguistic avoidance strategies used to avoid, redefine, recontextualise, reframe, and reassess concepts and topics considered threatening to the position held. The answers Chirac gives to the rather direct questions show his desire to avoid projecting the false idea that France is hindering American foreign policy. It is therefore not only his face that is at stake, but also that of his people, his political party, and the nation. Placing the analysis within the broader concept of multimodal communication, the paper adopts some of the findings made by Caffi & Janney (1994) and Janney (1999) to emphasise that strategies of avoiding implicative and threatening concepts in speech follow similar patterns of escaping from or avoiding harmful objects in the physical world.
Translation technologies
Authors: Alcina Amparo
Published: June 2008

Translation technologies constitute an important new field of interdisciplinary study lying midway between computer science and translation, and its professional development will largely depend on the attention it is given from the academic point of view. In this paper different approaches to the subject are examined so as to provide us with a basis for an internal analysis of the field of translation technologies and to structure its content. Following criteria based on professional practice and on the idiosyncrasies of the computer tools and resources that play a part in translation activity, we present our definition of translation technologies and of the field, classified in five blocs.
Vitamin and mineral intakes in European children. Is food fortification needed?
Authors: Serra-Majem Lluís
Published: June 2008

Objective:

To provide an overview of vitamin and mineral intakes among children and adolescents in European countries and to present results from studies showing the impact of food fortification.

Design:

Comparative analysis of a number of nutritional studies among children and adolescents performed during the last decade in certain European countries.

Setting:

Spain, France, UK, North Ireland, Portugal, Germany.

Subjects:

Europeans aged 6 to 18.

Results:

Dietary surveys across Europe showed that varying levels of nutrient adequacy existed from one country to another, and that even within the same country, there were important nutritional gaps between different regions. In general, studies are difficult to compare, and information for many countries was missing. The results suggest that children and adolescents are the population group most likely to have higher risk of nutritional deficiencies, particularly for iron, vitamins C, E, B6and folates. In France, Ireland, UK and Spain, food fortification, and particularly of breakfast cereals, has positively contributed to increasing vitamin and mineral intakes in childhood and adolescence.

Conclusions:

Information on vitamin and mineral intakes in European children is less available than in adults. Fortified foods may contribute to reducing nutrient inadequacy in European children and adolescents, but should not replace nutrition education.
Calcium, physical activity and bone health – building bones for a stronger future
Authors: Branca Francesco , Vatueña Silvia
Published: June 2008

Adequate provision of nutrients composing the bone matrix and regulating bone metabolism should be provided from birth in order to achieve maximal bone mass, compatible with individual genetic background, and to prevent osteoporosis later in life. Low calcium intake (<250 mg day−1) in children is associated with both a reduced bone mineral content and hyperparathyroidism. Optimal calcium intake is, however, still a matter of controversy. The minimisation of fracture risk would be the ideal functional outcome on which to evaluate lifetime calcium intakes, but proxy indicators, such as bone mass measurements or maximal calcium retention, are used instead. Calcium recommendations in Europe and the United States are based on different concepts as to requirements, leading to somewhat different interpretations of dietary adequacy. Minerals and trace elements other than calcium are involved in skeletal growth, some of them as matrix constituents, such as magnesium and fluoride, others as components of enzymatic systems involved in matrix turnover, such as zinc, copper and manganese. Vitamins also play a role in calcium metabolism (e.g. vitamin D) or as co-factors of key enzymes for skeletal metabolism (e.g. vitamins C and K). Physical activity has different effects on bone depending on its intensity, frequency, duration and the age at which it is started. The anabolic effect on bone is greater in adolescence and as a result of weight-bearing exercise. Adequate intakes of calcium appear necessary for exercise to have its bone stimulating action.
Childhood obesity in Europe: a growing concern
Authors: Livingstone MBE
Published: June 2008

Estimation of the prevalence and secular trends in paediatric obesity in Europe is impeded by methodological problems in the definition of obesity and the paucity of data sets that mirror the demographic, cultural and socioeconomic composition of the European population. The available prevalence data show that paediatric obesity is increasing throughout Europe but the patterns vary with time, age, sex and geographical region. The highest rates of obesity are observed in eastern and southern European countries. Even within countries there may be marked variability in the rates of obesity. It is unclear whether these trends are a simple consequence of an overall increase in fatness in Europe or whether there may be sub-groups of children who, at certain ages, are either particularly susceptible to environmental challenges or are selectively exposed to such challenges. In addition to the general increase in adiposity in European youth, there is also evidence of an increasing degree of obesity, particularly in older children and adolescents. No definite conclusions can be made about the respective contribution of energy intake and physical activity to the increasing prevalence of obesity. Changing demographic and social circumstances are linked to childhood obesity but it is highly unlikely that these interact in similar ways in the genesis of obesity in different individuals and population groups. In conclusion, the limited understanding of the variability in susceptibility to obesity in European youth provides powerful justification for the development of preventive strategies which are population based rather than selectively targeted at high-risk children.
Establishing good dietary habits – capturing the minds of children
Authors: Westenhoefer Joachim
Published: June 2008

Objective:

To review the psycho-social research with respect to relevance for the development of nutritional education strategies.

Results:

The eating behaviour of the newborn baby is controlled by innate preferences and dislikes, and by biological self-regulation. These innate control-systems are modified by learning processes, most importantly by the mere exposure to unknown food, by social influences, and by associating the physiological consequences of food intake with taste cues. The last decades have witnessed a change of the social meaning of food and eating, and the social context of eating is subject to dramatic changes. While on the one hand, prevalence of overweight and obesity is increasing, even young children deliberately practise weight control measures ranging from selective food choice to self-induced vomiting thus including behaviours which are clearly symptomatic of eating disorders. Such behaviour is motivated by unrealistic conceptions of a healthy body weight and shape. Children are interested in a range of nutrition topics. However, these topics have to be related to direct perceivable benefits from nutrition.

Conclusions:

Educational strategies should: firstly, focus on providing a variety of foods, including a range of nutrient-dense ‘healthy’ food and encouraging children to taste it; secondly, provide a stable and predictive pattern of social eating occasions to promote the social meaning and importance of eating and to enable social learning of food preferences; and finally, encourage a positive body image by providing advice and reassurance regarding the range of healthy and acceptable body weights and shapes.
School-based nutrition education: lessons learned and new perspectives
Authors: Pérez-Rodrigo Carmen , Aranceta Javier
Published: June 2008

Nutrition is a major environmental influence on physical and mental growth and development in early life. Food habits during infancy can influence preferences and practices in later life and some evidence suggests fair to moderate tracking of food habits from childhood to adolescence1–4. Studies support that good nutrition contributes to improving the wellbeing of children and their potential learning ability, thus contributing to better school performance5–7. Children and young people who learn healthy eating habits, are encouraged to be physically active, to avoid smoking and to learn to manage stress, have the potential for reduced impact of chronic diseases in adulthood4–8. Nutrition education is a key element to promoting lifelong healthy eating and exercise behaviours and should start from the early stages of life8–11; it should also address the specific nutritional needs associated with pregnancy, including reinforcing breastfeeding12.

Food habits are complex in nature and multiple conditioning factors interact in their development13. Young children do not choose what they eat, but their parents decide and prepare the food for them. During infancy and early childhood the family is a key environment for children to learn and develop food preferences and eating habits. As they grow and start school, teachers, peers and other people at school, together with the media and social leaders, become more important. Progressively children become more independent and start making their own food choices. The peer group is very important for adolescents and has a major influence in developing both food habits and lifestyles13.

Community trials suggest that nutrition education is an accessible effective tool in health promotion programmes with a focus on the development of healthy eating practices14, 15.
Dietary intake and nutritional status of US adult marijuana users: results from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Smit Ellen , Crespo Carlos J
Published: June 2008

Objectives:

This study examined dietary intakes and nutritional status of marijuana users and non-current marijuana users in US adults aged 20 to 59 years.

Methods:

We used data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III), 1988–1994. Information on self-reported drug use, including marijuana, was obtained as part of the NHANES III physical examination component. Nutritional status was assessed using height and weight, and blood biochemistries. Dietary intake was assessed using a 24-hour recall and a food-frequency questionnaire.

Results:

Among adults 20–59 years of age, 45% reported ever having used marijuana in their lifetime. A total of 8.7% reported using marijuana in the past month. Current marijuana users had higher intakes of energy and nutrients than non-current marijuana users; however, body mass index (BMI) was slightly lower. We found higher cigarette-smoking rates and higher consumption of sodas and alcohol, specifically beer, among marijuana users than among non-current marijuana users. Marijuana users also consumed more sodium, fewer fruits, and more pork, cheese, and salty snacks. Nutritional status, using indicators of serum nutrients, serum albumin, haematocrit and haemoglobin, was similar between marijuana users and non-current marijuana users. Serum carotenoid levels were lower among marijuana users, independent of cigarette smoking.

Conclusion:

Dietary intake was different among marijuana users than among non-current marijuana users. Although overall nutritional status was similar, serum carotenoid levels were lower in marijuana users. The long-term health effects of these differences in marijuana users deserve careful consideration in future research.
Does the condition of the mouth and teeth affect the ability to eat certain foods, nutrient and dietary intake and nutritional status amongst older people?
Authors: Sheiham A , Steele J
Published: June 2008

Objectives:

To assess how the dental status of older people affected their stated ability to eat common foods, their nutrient intake and some nutrition-related blood analytes.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey part of nation-wide British National Diet and Nutrition Survey: people aged 65 years and older. Data from a questionnaire were linked to clinical data and data from four-day weighed dietary records. Two separate representative samples: a free-living and an institutional sample. Seven-hundred-and-fifty-three free-living and 196 institution subjects had a dental exam and interview.

Results:

About one in five dentate (with natural teeth) free-living people had difficulty eating raw carrots, apples, well-done steak or nuts. Foods such as nuts, apples and raw carrots could not be eaten easily by over half edentate (without natural teeth but with dentures) people in institutions. In free-living, intakes of most nutrients and fruit and vegetables were significantly lower in edentate than dentate. Perceived chewing ability increased with increasing number of teeth. Daily intake of non-starch polysaccharides, protein, calcium, non-haem iron, niacin, vitamin C and intrinsic and milk sugars were significantly lower in edentate. Plasma ascorbate and retinol were significantly lower in the edentate than dentate. Plasma ascorbate was significantly related to the number of teeth and posterior contacting pairs of teeth.

Conclusions:

The presence, number and distribution of natural teeth are related to the ability to eat certain foods, affecting nutrient intakes and two biochemical measures of nutritional status.
The consumption of rye bread and white bread as dimensions of health lifestyles in Finland
Authors: Prättälä Ritva , elasoja Ville , Mykkänen Hannu
Published: June 2008

Objective:

The aim of this research was to describe the variation in bread consumption within social classes and to link this consumption to health-related lifestyles in Finland from 1978 until 1998.

Design:

A cross-sectional survey on health-related behaviour and socio-demographic factors has been conducted annually since 1978.

Setting:

Mailed questionnaire.

Subjects:

A random sample of 5000 Finns aged 15–64 years has been drawn annually. The response rate has varied from 84% to 68%.

Results:

The consumption of rye bread decreased, but among the female population a slight increase appeared in the 1990s. The consumption of rye bread was associated with a low educational level and a rural place of residence. White bread was consumed less than was rye bread. White bread was consumed more frequently by the less educated in urban areas. Contrary to white bread, the consumption of rye bread was not associated with smoking, exercise or alcohol consumption.

Conclusions:

The traditional place of rye bread in the Finnish dietary pattern has remained rather constant. White bread consumption has been associated with an unhealthy lifestyle. As a result, those Finns who are concerned about their health avoid white bread but seem not to associate rye bread with a healthier lifestyle. In Finland, rye bread has a different image to the image of whole-grain or dark brown bread in many other western European countries.
Disparities in vegetable and fruit consumption: European cases from the north to the south
Authors: Roos Gun , Johansson Lars , Kasmel Anu , Klumbiené Jurate , Prättälä Ritva
Published: June 2008

Objective:

To present disparities in consumption of vegetables and fruits in Europe and to discuss how educational level, region and level of consumption influence the variation.

Design:

A review of selected studies from 1985 to 1997.

Setting/subjects:

33 studies (13 dietary surveys, nine household budget surveys and 11 health behaviour surveys) representing 15 European countries were selected based on criteria developed as part of the study. Association between educational level and consumption of vegetables and fruits was registered for each study and common conclusions were identified.

Results:

In the majority of the studies, with the exception of a few in southern and eastern Europe, consumption of vegetables and fruits was more common among those with higher education. The results suggest that in regions where consumption of vegetables and fruits is more common, the lower social classes tend to consume more of these than the higher social classes.

Conclusions:

The differences in the patterns of disparities in vegetable and fruit consumption between regions, as well as within populations, need to be considered when efforts to improve nutrition and health are planned.