bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression patterns of synaptic vesicle protein 2A in focal cortical dysplasia and TSC‐cortical tubers
Authors: Toering Sjoukje T. , Boer Karin , De Groot Marjolein , Troost Dirk , Heimans Jan J. , Spliet Wim G. M. , Van Rijen Peter C. , Jansen Floor E. , Gorter Jan A. , Reijneveld Jaap C. , Aronica Eleonora
Published: February 2009

Purpose: Synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A), the binding site for the antiepileptic drug (AED) levetiracetam, has been shown to be involved in the control of neuronal excitability. The aim of the study was to define the expression and cell‐specific distribution of SV2A in developmental focal lesions associated with medically intractable epilepsy.

Methods: SV2A immunocytochemistry and Western blotting was performed in focal cortical dysplasia (FCD type IIB) and cortical tubers from patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC).

Results: Autopsy and surgical control neocortical specimens were characterized by strong SV2A immunoreactivity throughout all cortical layers, with punctate labeling around the somata and dendrites of neurons. In FCD and cortical tuber specimens less intense, SV2A immunoreactivity was observed in the neuropil. The reduction in expression was confirmed by Western blot analysis. In both FCD and tuber specimens, clusters of punctate labeling were detected along cell borders and processes (perisomatic synapses) of dysplastic neuronal cells localized in both gray and white matter. The large majority of balloon cells in FCD, or giant cells in tubers, did not show punctate labeling around their somata. SV2A immunoreactivity was observed occasionally within the neuronal perikarya.

Conclusions: The pattern of SV2A immunoreactivity with reduced neuropil expression and altered cellular and subcellular distribution suggests a possible contribution of SV2A to the epileptogenicity of these malformations of cortical development. Knowledge of the expression pattern of SV2A in epilepsy‐associated pathologies may be valuable for the evaluation of the effectiveness of AEDs targeting this protein.
Cholecystokinin‐8 sulfate modulates the anticonvulsant efficacy of vigabatrin in an experimental model of partial complex epilepsy in the rat
Authors: Ferraro Giuseppe , Sardo Pierangelo
Published: February 2009

Purpose:  We evaluated the possible additive effect induced by the administration of the anticonvulsant vigabatrin (VGB) and cholecystokinin‐8 sulfate (CCK‐8S) on an experimental model of partial complex seizures (maximal dentate gyrus activation, MDA). Moreover, the functional involvement of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmission was tested by iontophoretically administering bicuculline (GABA receptor antagonist) in the dentate gyrus.

Methods:  Urethane anesthetized rats were pretreated with VGB (50, 100 or 200 mg/kg, i.p.) or CCK‐8S (8 nmol/kg, i.p.) alone or coadministered with VGB (50 mg/kg, i.p.). Dentate gyrus epileptic activity was obtained through the repetitive electrical stimulation of the angular bundle. MDA latency, duration, and poststimulus afterdischarge (AD) duration were evaluated. The extracellular activity of some dentate neurons was recorded before and during bicuculline iontophoresis.

Results:  Only the higher dose of VGB reduced the mean duration of dentate MDA and AD. CCK‐8S significantly decreased the number of animals exhibiting MDA responses, characterized by increased latency and shorter duration. The coadministration of CCK‐8S and VGB (50 mg/kg) significantly increased the anticonvulsant effects, either reducing the number of responding animals or decreasing both MDA and AD durations. During bicuculline iontophoresis, all the modifications induced on the MDA‐related activity of dentate neurons by the pretreatments (VGB and/or CCK‐8S) were abolished.

Discussion:  The results indicate that CCK‐8S significantly enhances the VGB‐induced anticonvulsant effect in the MDA model of partial epilepsy, probably through an increase of GABA cerebral levels. Such increased anticonvulsant effect becomes evident by using VGB at a lower dose.
Efficacy, safety, and tolerability of the low glycemic index treatment in pediatric epilepsy
Authors: Muzykewicz David A. , Lyczkowski David A. , Memon Naureen , Conant Kerry D. , Pfeifer Heidi H. , Thiele Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2009

Purpose:  To report the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of the low glycemic index treatment (LGIT) in pediatric epilepsy.

Methods:  A retrospective chart review was performed on patients initiating the LGIT at the Massachusetts General Hospital between January 2002 and June 2008. Demographic and clinical information including seizure type, baseline seizure frequency, medications, blood chemistries, side effects, and anthropometrics were collected. Initiation of the LGIT was done in an outpatient setting. Patients were educated by a dietitian to restrict foods with high glycemic index and to limit total daily carbohydrates to 40–60 g. Change in seizure frequency was assessed at 1‐, 3‐, 6‐, 9‐, and 12‐month follow‐up intervals.

Results:  Seventy‐six children were included in the study. Eighty‐nine percent had intractable epilepsy (≥3 antiepileptic drugs). A greater than 50% reduction from baseline seizure frequency was observed in 42%, 50%, 54%, 64%, and 66% of the population with follow‐up available at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively. Increased efficacy was correlated with lower serum glucose levels at some time points, but not with β‐hydroxybutyrate (BOHB) changes or ketosis status at any time point. Only three patients reported side effects (transient lethargy). Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) was elevated in approximately one‐third of follow‐up laboratory studies. No significant changes were seen in body mass index (BMI) or BMI z‐score at any follow‐up interval. The most cited reason for treatment discontinuation was the restrictiveness of the diet, in 18 patients (24%).

Conclusion:  The LGIT was associated with reduced seizure frequency in a large fraction of patients, with limited side effects.
A Clinically Oriented Comprehensive Pictorial Review of Canine Elbow Anatomy
Authors: CONSTANTINESCU GHEORGHE M. , CONSTANTINESCU ILEANA A.
Published: February 2009

The clinically oriented canine elbow anatomy in its complexity earned a high importance in surgery especially after multiple imaging modalities have been used in the benefit of diagnosis and treatment of canine elbow disorders. The bony, joint, and muscular structures, the arteries, the veins and the nerves supplying the elbow are described and illustrated in textbooks and atlases in the context of the comparative anatomy. Nevertheless, there is no publication focused on all of these structures described together from the skin to the bones in a systematic and topographic order, nor through cross and/or sagittal and coronal sections. The figures used in this article are original and drawn after dissection, cross, sagittal, and coronal sections of the elbow structures. The sections are correlated to the multiple imaging modalities shown in the next article.
Failure Mode of Transcondylar Screws Used for Treatment of Incomplete Ossification of the Humeral Condyle in 5 Dogs
Authors: CHARLES E. ALASDAIR , NESS MALCOLM G. , YEADON RUSSEL
Published: February 2009

Objective—To investigate the mode of failure of transcondylar screws retrieved from dogs previously treated for incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle (IOHC).

Study Design—Metallurgical study.

Sample Population—Broken screws (n=5) from dogs with IOHC.

Methods—Broken transcondylar bone screws were retrieved from dogs that had apparently successful surgery for IOHC. Screws were measured and examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy‐dispersive analysis by X‐rays (EDX).

Results—EDX confirmed that screws were made from 316L stainless steel and there was no evidence of significant corrosion or manufacturing faults that might have contributed to implant failure. SEM of the fractured surface of screws revealed a similar and complex pattern of fatigue failure characterized by multidirectional fatigue cracks and the presence of several initiation sites. All screws had signs of fatigue failure because of multidirectional forces of variable magnitude.

Conclusions—Intercondylar instability is a feature of IOHC that persists despite placement of a transcondylar screw.

Clinical Relevance—The pathogenesis of IOHC involves chronic intercondylar instability and its treatment using even relatively large transcondylar screws has a risk of late implant failure.
Measurement of Ulnar Subtrochlear Sclerosis Using a Percentage Scale in Labrador Retrievers with Minimal Radiographic Signs of Periarticular Osteophytosis
Authors: SMITH THOMAS J. , FITZPATRICK NOEL , EVANS RICHARD B. , PEAD MATHEW J.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To report the development of a measurement method for quantifying ulnar subtrochlear sclerosis (STS) in Labrador Retrievers.

Study Design—Prospective blinded study.

Sample Population—Radiographs of Labrador Retrievers elbows (n=30) with minimal radiographic signs of periarticular osteophytosis.

Method—Measurement of STS as a % of the distance between 2 standardized radiographic landmarks (%STS) was developed. Mediolateral radiographic projections of flexed elbows were collected from 2 cohorts termeddiseased(n=15; confirmed disease of the medial coronoid process) andcontrol(n=15; free from clinically evident disease). Five observers blindly assessed each radiograph for radiographic technique, elbow positioning, periarticular osteophytosis, and STS, which, if present, was measured and assigned a %STS score. Intraobserver and interobserver variations in measuring STS and the ability to differentiate study cohorts were assessed using receiver operator curve (ROC) characteristics. AP‐value of <.05 was considered significant.

Results—Median %STS fordiseasedelbows was 47% (range, 0–74%) and 0% (range, 0–62%) forcontrolelbows. Correlations were not significantly different between each observer's assessments of %STS, with a median Spearman'sP‐value of .75 (range, .67–.86). All observers differentiated the 2 cohorts with “fair‐good” accuracy, with a median ROC value of 0.81 (range, 0.75–0.88).

Conclusion—Measurement of %STS in Labrador Retrievers was repeatable for each observer and repeatable between observers.

Clinical Relevance—A method for measuring STS allows comparison of Labrador Retrievers of different sizes, is easy to perform, and could be used to investigate the clinical significance of STS in this breed.
The Utilization of Artificial Neural Networks in Marine Applications: An Overview
Authors: GOUGOULIDIS GEORGE
Published: February 2009

Traditional calculation methods used in naval architecture and marine engineering rely mainly on statistical approaches and regression analysis. A relatively new tool in this field is the use of artificial neural networks. Artificial neural networks possess a number of unique characteristics that make them particularly attractive in complex problems, such as the ship design process. In this paper, an overview of the application of neural networks to various aspects of the ship design process is examined. Representative examples in the literature are presented in order to illustrate the power and the versatility of such an approach. The paper aims to provide the reader, whether a novice or an expert in the field of artificial intelligence and naval architecture, with useful sources as well as outline the potential for the extensive use of neural networks in naval applications.
The combination of atenolol and amlodipine is better than their monotherapy for preventing end‐organ damage in different types of hypertension in rats
Authors: Han Ping , Shen Fu‐Ming , Xie He‐Hui , Chen Yuan‐Yuan , Miao Chao‐Yu , Mehta Jawahar L. , Sassard Jean , Su Ding‐Feng
Published: February 2009

Combinations therapy is often used in hypertensive patients whether combination therapy is necessary for preventing end‐organ damage is not known. The objective of this study was to determine in four different hypertensive animal models the necessity of adding the calcium channel blocker amlodipine to therapy with the ß‐blocker atenolol to modulate end‐organ damage. Spontaneously hypertensive rats, DOCA‐salt hypertensive rats, two‐kidney, one‐clip renovascular hypertensive rats and Lyon genetically hypertensive rats were used to study this objective. These animal models have different sensitivities to atenolol and amlodipine. The dosages of therapy employed were 10 mg/kg atenolol alone, 1 mg/kg amlodipine, 10 mg atenolol + 1 mg/kg amlodipine and 5 mg/kg atenolol+0.5 mg/kg amlodipine. BP was continuously recorded in all animals. After determination of baroreflex sensitivity, rats were sacrificed for end‐organ damage evaluation. The combination of amlodipine and atenolol had a synergistic inhibitory effect on blood pressure and blood pressure variability, and end‐organ damage as compared with monotherapy with atenolol or amlodipine in all animal models. Baroreflex sensitivity also improved with the combination therapy more than with monotherapy. In conclusion, atenolol and amlodipine combination exerts a superior effect on blood pressure, blood pressure variability, baroreflex sensitivity and end‐organ damage. The superior effect of the combination was observed in all four models of hypertension.
Melatonin improves oxidative stress parameters measured in the blood of elderly type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Kędziora‐Kornatowska Kornelia , Szewczyk‐Golec Karolina , Kozakiewicz Mariusz , Pawluk Hanna , Czuczejko Jolanta , Kornatowski Tomasz , Bartosz Grzegorz , Kędziora Józef
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  An elevated oxidative status in the aging organism may be involved in the development of non‐insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Melatonin, a potent antioxidant agent, is essential for glucose homeostasis and regulation. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of melatonin supplementation on the oxidative stress parameters in elderly NIDDM patients. The malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, Cu‐Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD‐1) activity in erythrocytes, the level of nitrate/nitrite in plasma and morning melatonin concentration and oxidase activity of ceruloplasmin (Cp) in serum in 15 elderly NIDDM patients at baseline and after the 30 days of melatonin supplementation (5 mg daily) in comparison with levels in 15 healthy elderly volunteers were determined. A significant increase of MDA level and decrease of SOD‐1 activity and melatonin concentration were observed in NIDDM patients. Cp oxidase activity and nitrate/nitrite level were similar in both examined groups. Melatonin administration in NIDDM patients resulted in a significant increase in the morning melatonin concentration and SOD‐1 activity, and a reduction in the MDA level and Cp oxidase activity. Statistically significant alterations in nitrate/nitrite levels were not observed. These results indicate an improvement of antioxidative defense after melatonin supplementation in the NIDDM individuals and suggest melatonin supplementation as an additional treatment for the control of diabetic complications.
Inclusive Achievement Testing for Linguistically and Culturally Diverse Test Takers: Essential Considerations for Test Developers and Decision Makers
Authors: Fairbairn Shelley B. , Fox Janna
Published: February 2009

Substantial growth in the numbers of English language learners (ELLs) in the United States and Canada in recent years has significantly affected the educational systems of both countries. This article focuses on critical issues and concerns related to the assessment of ELLs in U.S. and Canadian schools and emphasizes assessment approaches for test developers and decision makers that will facilitate increased equity, meaningfulness, and accuracy in assessment and accountability efforts. It begins by examining the crucial issue of defining ELLs as a group. Next, it examines the impact of testing originating from the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB) in the U.S. and government‐mandated standards‐driven testing in Canada by briefly describing each country's respective legislated testing requirements and outlining their consequences at several levels. Finally, the authors identify key points that test developers and decision makers in both contexts should consider in testing this ever‐increasing group of students.
Links for Academic Learning (LAL): A Conceptual Model for Investigating Alignment of Alternate Assessments Based on Alternate Achievement Standards
Authors: Flowers Claudia , Wakeman Shawnee , Browder Diane M. , Karvonen Meagan
Published: February 2009

This article describes an alignment procedure, called Links for Academic Learning (LAL), for examining the degree of alignment of alternate assessments based on alternate achievement standards (AA‐AAS) to grade‐level content standards and instruction. Although some of the alignment criteria are similar to those used in general education assessments, modifications to these criteria as well as additional unique criteria are incorporated because of the needs of the students with significant cognitive disabilities. This article addresses the alignment challenges that are specific to AA‐AAS, the rationale for the LAL alignment criteria, and a description of how the criteria are measured.
INTEGRATING FUZZY LOGIC PROCEDURE FOR SIGNAL VALIDATIONS: MALTA COLORING AS STUDY CASE
Authors: RIVEROL C. , CAROSI C.
Published: February 2009

In this study, the use of fuzzy logic for signal validation is introduced. This tool uses the sensor readings at the current time step to predict system state at the next time step using observers. The deviation between the sensor reading and the model prediction rises, leading to fault detection and isolation. The fault is accommodated by replacing the reading of the faulty sensor by the model prediction. The results presented in this article demonstrate that a simple scheme can carry out sensor fault detection, isolation and accommodation using a fuzzy rule‐based system based on experience of an operator into heuristics. Although the method lacks the mathematical basis that other analytical methods provide, this method is simple, effective and useful.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The coloring process has to be controlled and monitored carefully because if the color of the MALTA is not adequate, then the MALTA has to be recycled to another unit (dilution unit) where the colorant is eliminated. This recycling process uses delay around 3 working days, and the economic impact is high. The validation of signal and reduction of fault sensor contribute to the reduction of the recycling process. In this study, the incorporation of fuzzy logic in the treatment of sensor signal represents a significant factor in the improvement of MALTA production units.
PRELIMINARY AND COMPARATIVE STUDIES ON THE CULTIVATIONS OF DUNALIELLA SALINA BETWEEN OUTDOORS AND IN THE PHOTOBIOREACTOR
Authors: JIANG JIAN‐GUO , ZHU YUE‐HUI
Published: February 2009

Open pond cultivation of algae is greatly affected by environmental factors, such as temperature, light, native predator, etc., which makes the controllability of aquiculture very poor. In the present research, a novel small helix‐tube photobioreactor (PBR) with a volume of 1 L was designed according to the universal principles of PBR. The specific surface area of the reactor reached 62 m2/v, much more than 10 m2/v of the open pond cultivation conditions. A comparative study on the cultivation of algae between the PBR and outdoors was carried out. A species of marine microalga, Dunaliella salina, was used as a model organism in this study. At the end of the logarithmic phase after 12 days, the biomass of D. salina in the PBR was 290 mg/L, and the content ofβ‐carotene reached 28.38 mg/L, while the biomass and content ofβ‐carotene in outdoor cultivation were 250 and 22.87 mg/L, respectively. These results indicated that cultivation of algae in the PBR was more effective than that outdoors.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Despite the success of open systems, future advances in microalgal mass culture will require closed systems as the algal species of interest do not grow in highly selective environments. Furthermore, many of the new algae and algal products must be grown free of potential contaminants such as heavy metals and microorganisms. A helpful research was conducted in the present study to make a spiral‐tube photobioreactor (PBR) for the cultivation of Dunaliella salina in order to increase the output of β‐carotene. The designed PBR is based on the universal principles for such bioreactors, and is intended to overcome problems with outdoor cultivation. The advantages of PBRs in the light utilization ratio are obvious, including enhanced growth performance and higher biomass quality through cultivation in closed PBRs. It is hoped that this design of closed PBRs will be commercialized in the near future.
QUANTIFICATION OF FLUX DECLINE AND DESIGN OF ULTRAFILTRATION SYSTEM FOR CLARIFICATION OF TENDER COCONUT WATER
Authors: JAYANTI V.K. , RAI P. , DASGUPTA S. , DE S.
Published: February 2009

Clarification of tender coconut water was carried out in a continuous stirred ultrafiltration cell at transmembrane pressures of 276, 414, 552 and 690 kPa and at stirrer speeds of 800 (Reynolds number [Re] = 0.93 × 105), 1,000 (Re = 1.17 × 105), 1,400 (Re = 1.63 × 105) and 1,600 (Re = 1.87 × 105) rpm, for each pressure. Permeate flux decline was analyzed using a first‐order kinetic model for the development of the polarized layer resistance. Correlations were proposed for the steady‐state polarized layer resistance with the operating conditions, e.g., transmembrane pressure difference, Reynolds number and membrane resistance. Decrease in membrane permeability after subsequent experiments was also quantified. Average irreversible fouling resistance was estimated as 7.5 × 1012 m−1. Using the developed design equations of the stirred continuous ultrafiltration system, finally, the performance of such system in terms of productivity as function of operating conditions, membrane area and number of cleaning cycles was also evaluated.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The application of membrane technology is one of the emerging areas in the food industry. The major application includes fruit juice clarification and concentration. Because of the nonthermal nature of membrane separation, the juice can be clarified at room temperature and packed aseptically for longer shelf life without the loss of its initial quality parameters. The major problem during clarification is decline in permeate flux of fruit juice with time. Identification of the reasons for flux decline is essential for designing membrane modules to make the clarification process commercially viable. The quality of juice during storage is vital, so the determination of the variation of its physicochemical properties during storage is also important. The present study helps in designing membrane modules for the production of clarified tender coconut water.
IMPACT OF BLENDING OF FRYING OILS ON VISCOSITY AND HEAT TRANSFER COEFFICIENT AT ELEVATED TEMPERATURES
Authors: DEBNATH SUKUMAR , VIDYARTHI SRIRAM KUMAR , SINGH R. PAUL
Published: February 2009

In the present work, the effect of binary blending of five frying oils on kinematic viscosity (ν) and convective heat transfer coefficient (h) was studied at elevated temperatures (170, 180 and 190C). A Cannon Ubbelhode calibrated capillary viscometer (Cannon Instrument Company, State College, PA) in a custom‐designed and fabricated convective air bath heater and a highly conductive cylindrical metal transducer were used for generatingνand h data, respectively. The value ofνdecreased from 3.617 × 10‐6 to 2.062 × 10‐6 m2 s‐1, and h increased from 221.0 to 301.2 Wm‐2 C‐1 by increasing the aforementioned oil temperatures. A good correlation betweenν (R2 > 0.996) or h (R2 > 0.987) of these frying oils and their selected binary blends with the previously mentioned temperature range was observed. Significant difference (P < 0.05) was found between different levels of parameters when treatments were compared using Tukey's test.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

In food engineering applications, the physical properties of foods play an important role in the analysis of process parameters and in the design and fabrication of processing equipment. Determination of kinematic viscosity and convective heat transfer coefficients of frying oils and their selected blends at elevated temperatures are useful from an industrial point of view. In the present work, the effect of blending different edible oils on the kinematic viscosity and convective heat transfer coefficients at elevated temperatures was studied. Because selected blended oils provided lower levels of viscosities and higher levels of heat transfer coefficients, these results may be an attractive proposition in improving the quality of fried products and cost‐effectiveness in the fried food industry.
Management of stream compensation for a large conjunctive use scheme, Shropshire, UK
Authors: Shepley Martin G. , Streetly Mike , Voyce Kevin , Bamford Fiona
Published: February 2009

The Shropshire Groundwater Scheme (SGS) is the largest conjunctive use scheme in the United Kingdom. The SGS operates in drought periods, pumping water from the Permo‐Triassic Sandstone aquifer in Shropshire, England to regulate flows in the River Severn, alongside releases from conventional surface water reservoirs. This regulation protects the environment and increases the security of supply of major public water supply abstractions downstream. An important operational consideration is the impact SGS groundwater abstraction has on small streams that rise on the Shropshire Permo‐Triassic Sandstone. Compensation boreholes have been installed to maintain flows during and after the operation of the SGS. This paper shows how a groundwater model of the East Shropshire Permo‐Triassic Sandstone has been used to estimate the required level of compensation flows for recent climatic conditions to optimise the use of the SGS. The catchment wide conditions are included in this analysis by using the results of a large‐scale surface water model of the River Severn.
Consequentializing
Authors: Portmore Douglas W.
Published: February 2009

A growing trend of thought has it that any plausible nonconsequentialist theory can be consequentialized, which is to say that it can be given a consequentialist representation. In this essay, I explore both whether this claim is true and what its implications are. I also explain the procedure for consequentializing a nonconsequentialist theory and give an account of the motivation for doing so.
Divergent Approaches to Religion in Modern Islamic Discourses
Authors: Tayob Abdulkader
Published: February 2009

This article interrogates some key concepts and categories of religion in contemporary Muslim discourses. It identifies two contrasting approaches that set the framework for negotiating modern challenges for Muslims. The first approach is a critical reading of Islamic sources that emphasizes the personal dimension of belief and devotion. The second associates Islam with a comprehensive culture that brooks little compromise. Between these two, Muslim intellectuals across the wider spectrum employ religion to engage in debate with each other. Muslims in general employ the categories of religion to (re)shape Islam.
Performance of automated slidemakers and stainers in a working laboratory environment – routine operation and quality control
Authors: SIMSON E. , GASCON‐LEMA M. G. , BROWN D. L.
Published: February 2009

The automated slidemaker/stainers of the four Beckman Coulter LH755 hematology systems in our laboratory are operated as analyzers, with similar requirements for setup, maintenance and quality control. A study was performed to confirm that these slide maker/stainers in routine use produce peripheral blood films that are completely satisfactory for microscopy and without cells, particularly abnormal cells, being pulled to the edges or sides of the film outside the usual working area. One hundred and thirty‐nine automated blood films that had been produced during routine operation were compared with well‐prepared manual films from the same patients. None of the films was unacceptable for microscopy. The distributions of normal white cell types within the counting areas of automated films compared with manual films, for all 139 samples for WBC from 1.0 to 352.8 × 109/l; for blasts and promyelocytes in the 65 samples in which they occurred and for nucleated red blood cells in the 58 samples in which they occurred all fell within the expected limits of 200 cell differential counts of CLSI H20‐A. Red cell morphology and the occurrence of WBC clumps, platelet clumps and smudge cells were comparable between the automated and manual films of all samples. We conclude that automated slidemaker/stainers, as typified by those of the Beckman Coulter LH755 system, are capable of producing blood films comparable with well‐prepared manual films in routine laboratory use; and that the maintenance and quality control procedures used in our laboratory ensure consistent high quality performance from these systems.
Masked Hypertension and Atherogenesis: The Impact on Adiponectin and Resistin Plasma Levels
Authors: Papadopoulos Dimitris P. , Perrea Despina , Thomopoulos Costas , Sanidas Elias , Daskalaki Maria , Papazachou Urania , Votteas V. , Makris Thomas
Published: February 2009

Recent evidence suggests that masked hypertension (MH) is a predictor of cardiovascular disease and that hypoadiponectinemia and hyperesistinemia may contribute to chronic inflammatory process, insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction, and accelerated atherogenesis. The aim of this study was to examine the adiponectin and resistin plasma levels in patients with MH and compare the findings with those of healthy normotensive persons matched for age, sex, body mass index, and other risk factors. Overall, 130 (60 men and 70 women) healthy persons (mean age, 45±12 years) who had clinic blood pressure values <140/90 mm Hg were studied. The study population underwent 24‐hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). According to the ABPM recordings, 24 individuals (8 men and 16 women) had MH (daytime systolic blood pressure ≥135 mm Hg or daytime diastolic blood pressure ≥85 mm Hg; group A) and the remaining 106 participants (52 men and 54 women) had normal ABPM findings (group B). Adiponectin and resistin plasma levels were determined in both groups by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Significantly higher (P<.01) resistin levels (12±4 vs 6.8±3.6 ng/mL) were found in group A compared with group B, while the adiponectin plasma levels were significantly lower (P<.01) in group A compared with group B (6±2.3 vs 11±2.7 μg/mL). Findings suggest that patients with MH have lower adiponectin levels and higher resistin levels compared with normotensive individuals. This observation may have prognostic significance for future cardiovascular events in patients with MH.
Intimate Partner Violence during Pregnancy: What Does the Research Tell Us?
Authors: Bergen Raquel Kennedy , Logue Melissa A.
Published: February 2009

This article represents an interdisciplinary review of the current literature on intimate partner violence during pregnancy. Within the field of research, questions have been raised about whether or not women are at heightened risk for experiencing violence during pregnancy. We examined studies in both Western and non‐Western contexts to examine this question and consider prevalence rates, causal factors, and the consequences for victims and their fetuses. We found that even with variations in methodology, the literature indicates that violence against women during pregnancy is a serious and complex problem. Women's experiences of violence vary greatly, and while pregnancy may serve as a protective period for some women, for others, pregnancy has been found to increase the violence or even lead to changes in types of violence. However, most studies emphasize physical violence, while frequently neglecting women's experiences of sexual violence. We call for researchers in a variety of fields to continue their critical work into this pressing issue, with particular attention to broadening the type of violence addressed and to expanding the focus to the post‐partum period, improving the racial/ethnic diversity of samples, increasing the number of longitudinal studies, and recognizing variations between developed and developing nations.
A Confluence of Interests in Immigration Enforcement: How Politicians, the Media, and Corporations Profit from Immigration Policies Destined to Fail
Authors: Golash‐Boza Tanya
Published: February 2009

The concept of an immigration industrial complex draws from previous work on the prison industrial complex and the military industrial complex. All three of these complexes point to the ways that the interests of government bureaucracies, corporate elites, and politicians shape laws and policies. This article explains how the undocumented status of migrants provides advantages to at least three groups: (a) media pundits who make their careers railing against ‘illegal aliens’; (b) politicians who use undocumented migrants as scapegoats; and (c) contractors who profit from massive immigration enforcement expenditures. The disenfranchised status of undocumented migrants enhances the ability of each of these groups to benefit from their presence. This confluence of interests explains why Congress has not enacted viable immigration policies that effectively deal with the ‘problem’ of illegal immigration. This is the second in a two‐part series on the immigration industrial complex.
The Immigration Industrial Complex: Why We Enforce Immigration Policies Destined to Fail
Authors: Golash‐Boza Tanya
Published: February 2009

This article provides a genealogy of the idea of an immigration industrial complex. The immigration industrial complex is the confluence of public and private sector interests in the criminalization of undocumented migration, immigration law enforcement, and the promotion of ‘anti‐illegal’ rhetoric. This concept is based on ideas developed with regard to the prison and military industrial complexes. These three complexes share three major features: (a) a rhetoric of fear; (b) the convergence of powerful interests; and (c) a discourse of other‐ization. This article explores why Congress has not passed viable legislation to deal with undocumented migration, and instead has passed laws destined to fail, and has appropriated billions of dollars to the Department of Homeland Security to implement these laws. This has been exacerbated in the context of the War on Terror, now that national security has been conflated with immigration law enforcement. This is the first in a two‐part series on the immigration industrial complex.
Community assemblage patterns of odonates inhabiting a wetland complex influenced by anthropogenic disturbance
Authors: REECE BRYAN A. , MCINTYRE NANCY E.
Published: February 2009

Abstract. 

Many wetland complexes around the world are highly influenced by human activity (chiefly land conversion for agriculture). Measuring the impact of such activity hinges not only upon using appropriate wetland indicator taxa but also upon metrics that are sensitive enough to capture subtle effects.

Over a 5‐year period, we quantified the distribution and community structure of odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) occupying a wetland complex in Texas. When using traditional community metrics, there were no significant differences in diversity or evenness in the odonate assemblages in wetlands surrounded by the two dominant regional forms of land use (tilled cropland and grassland). Similarity analyses likewise failed to detect any significant differences in odonate community composition with land use.

Discriminant function analysis, however, revealed that species co‐occurrences could be distinguished on the basis of surrounding land use, which indicates that odonate assemblages in these wetlands are structured in a manner that typical community metrics fail to adequately describe.

Differences between the approaches are discussed, particularly with regard to the use of presence–absence data.
Isolation and characterization of 22 polymorphic microsatellite loci for the Barrow's goldeneye (Bucephala islandica)
Authors: JAARI SONJA , JAATINEN KIM , MERILÄ JUHA
Published: February 2009

We describe primers and polymerase chain reaction conditions to amplify 22 microsatellite loci from the Barrow's goldeneye (Bucephala islandica). The primers were tested on 27 individuals from a population breeding in British Columbia, Canada. The developed primer pairs yielded an average of 6.11 alleles per locus (range 2–12), an average observed heterozygosity of 0.70 (range 0.07–0.96) and a polymorphic information content of 0.07–0.88.
Terrestrial carbon‐cycle feedback to climate warming: experimental evidence on plant regulation and impacts of biofuel feedstock harvest
Authors: LUO YIQI , SHERRY REBECCA , ZHOU XUHUI , WAN SHIQIANG
Published: February 2009

Feedback between global carbon (C) cycles and climate change is one of the major uncertainties in projecting future global warming. Coupled carbon–climate models all demonstrated a positive feedback between terrestrial C cycle and climate warming. The positive feedback results from decreased net primary production (NPP) in most models and increased respiratory C release by all the models under climate warming. Those modeling results present interesting hypotheses of future states of ecosystems and climate, which are yet to be tested against experimental results. In this study, we examined ecosystem C balance and its major components in a warming and clipping experiment in a North America tallgrass prairie. Infrared heaters have been used to elevate soil temperature by approximately 2 °C continuously since November 1999. Clipping once a year was to mimic hay or biofuel feedstock harvest. On average of data over 6 years from 2000 to 2005, estimated NPP under warming increased by 14% without clipping (P<0.05) and 26% with clipping (P<0.05) in comparison with that under control. Warming did not result in instantaneous increases in soil respiration in 1999 and 2000 but significantly increased it by approximately 8% without clipping (P<0.05) from 2001 to 2005. Soil respiration under warming increased by 15% with clipping (P<0.05) from 2000 to 2005. Warming‐stimulated plant biomass production, due to enhanced C4 dominance, extended growing seasons, and increased nitrogen uptake and use efficiency, offset increased soil respiration, leading to no change in soil C storage at our site. However, biofuel feedstock harvest by biomass removal resulted in significant soil C loss in the clipping and control plots but was carbon negative in the clipping and warming plots largely because of positive interactions of warming and clipping in stimulating root growth. Our results demonstrate that plant production processes play a critical role in regulation of ecosystem carbon‐cycle feedback to climate change in both the current ambient and future warmed world.
Suppression of parasitic electron injection in silicon-oxide-nitride-oxide-silicon-type memory cells using high-k capping layers
Authors: Erlbacher T. , Graf T. , DasGupta N. , Bauer A. J. , Ryssel H.
Published: February 2009

In this article the application of thin high-k dielectrics as capping layers on oxide/nitride/oxide memory stacks with respect to suppression of electron injection from the gate electrode during erase operation is investigated. The authors demonstrate that hafnium silicate layers, with a dielectric constant of 17, as thin as 1nm of physical thickness can clearly reduce electron injection and thereby prevent erase saturation. In theory, tunneling currents will be more strongly suppressed with increasing k values when keeping the equivalent oxide thickness constant. Therefore, the prevention of erase saturation will be further improved. However, titanium oxide as capping layer, which has a dielectric constant of 60, exhibits inferior erase performance due to a strong electron injection by field-enhanced thermal emission of electrons. This Poole-Frenkel conduction mechanism takes place along trapping sites 0.32eV below the conduction band in the titanium dioxide. While the application of high-k materials can efficiently suppress erase saturation due to tunneling currents, this effect can be diminished by leakage currents along shallow trapping sites which occur in high-k dielectrics.
Hf
O
2
∕
Si
interface formation in atomic layer deposition films: An in situ investigation
Authors: Tallarida Massimo , Karavaev Konstantin , Schmeisser Dieter
Published: February 2009

The authors have studied the initial stages of the atomic layer deposition (ALD) of HfO2 onto Si by means of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy using synchrotron radiation. The ALD was obtained using HfCl4 and H2O as precursors. The investigation was carried out in situ giving the possibility to determine the properties of the grown film after each ALD cycle. The Si 2p, O 1s, and Hf 4d+Cl 2p spectra show the growth of HfO2 in a smooth way until the complete formation of two oxide layers. The averaged growth rate is found to be 0.33 (one layer after three cycles) in accordance with previous works but, within the formation of one oxide layer, each ALD cycle behaves in a distinct way: the oxidation step in the various cycles shows a different efficiency leading to the inclusion of Cl impurities into the Hf oxide. In relation to the experimental results we discuss the origin of the Cl contamination proposing a mechanism based on the adsorption geometry of HfCl4 onto the–OH terminated substrate.
Analytical modeling of the tunneling probability through the double-layer gate stacks
Authors: Majkusiak B.
Published: February 2009

An accurate analytical formula for tunneling probability through the double-layer gate stack is derived. The Wentzel-Krammers-Brillouin approximation equivalent simplification is proposed, too. The derived formulas are used to analyze the tunneling probability of metal-oxide semiconductor structures with the double-layer gate stacks of different parameters and composition.
Breakdown and degradation of ultrathin Hf-based (HfO2)x(SiO2)1−x gate oxide films
Authors: Uppal H. J. , Mitrovic I. Z. , Hall S. , Hamilton B. , Markevich V. , Peaker A. R.
Published: February 2009

Ultrathin films of hafnium oxide (HfO2) and hafnium silicate (HfO2)x(SiO2)1−x gate stacks (∼3nm) have been subjected to localized electrical stress with a conductive atomic force microscope (C-AFM) in ultrahigh vacuum. The nanoscale current-voltage (I-V) characteristics, prebreakdown temperature dependent I-V measurements on large area metal-insulator-semiconductor capacitors, postbreakdown (BD) topography, current maps, and AFM tip-surface contact force are used to interpret the progressive degradation of the oxide under electrical stress. For the pre-BD phase, trap-assisted tunneling and Fowler–Nordheim tunneling were found to be dominant current transport mechanisms in Hf-based gate stacks contributing to oxide leakage current. For the post-BD phase, an overall effect of barrier limited tunneling current on the charge propagation is confirmed and related to post-BD conductivity features observed by constant voltage scanning. A critical trap density required to trigger a BD event of the ultrathin (HfO2)x(SiO2)1−x∕SiO2 gate stacks is postulated.
Peculiar characteristics of nanocrystal memory cells programming window
Authors: Gasperin Alberto , Amat Esteve , Martin Javier , Porti Marc , Nafria Montserrat , Paccagnella Alessandro
Published: February 2009

In this work the authors study nanocrystal memory cells, focusing on a peculiar characteristic of these devices: the programming window measured in subthreshold region is larger than that measured in linear region. For converse, floating gate flash memory cells with a similar structure feature the same programming window in linear and subthreshold regions. To understand the cause of the difference observed in the nanocrystal memory cells, the authors perform two dimensional technology computer aided design simulations. They well reproduce the experimental results, indicating that the difference observed in nanocrystal memories is due to the localization of the charge into specific regions of the oxide above the channel, i.e., the nanocrystals. On the other hand, when the charge is uniformly stored in the oxide above the channel (as in the case of floating gate flash memory cells), this difference disappears.
Electrical properties of thin zirconium and hafnium oxide high-k gate dielectrics grown by atomic layer deposition from cyclopentadienyl and ozone precursors
Authors: Dueñas S. , Castán H. , Garcia H. , Gómez A. , Bailón L. , Kukli K. , Niinistö J. , Ritala M. , Leskelä M.
Published: February 2009

Zr O 2 and reference HfO2 films grown by atomic layer deposition from metal cyclopentadienyls and ozone as precursors to thicknesses ranging from 3.6to13.1nm on etched silicon showed electrical characteristics adequate to high-k dielectrics. The best results in terms of low interface state densities were obtained when (CpMe)2ZrMe2 precursor was used, with Cp denoting the cyclopentadienyl group (C5H5), and Me the methyl group (CH3). The ZrO2 films grown from (CpMe)2Zr(OMe)Me possessed nearly an order of magnitude higher trap state densities. Similar dependence on the precursor chemistry was observed upon recording the flatband voltage time transients. The flatband voltage transients, originating from phonon-assisted tunneling between localized states at oxide silicon interface, were the lowest in HfO2 films grown from (CpMe)2Hf(OMe)Me. The leakage current densities were also lower in the HfO2 films, compared to ZrO2. On the other hand, interfacial trap state densities in HfO2 based capacitors remained higher than those measured in the case of ZrO2 films. Process-dependent qualities of the capacitors have been described. At the same time, the current conduction mechanisms in all films were essentially bulk driven, not affected noticeably by the interfacial barriers.
Electrical properties of amorphous barium titanate films sputter deposited under hydrogen containing atmosphere
Authors: El Kamel F. , Gonon P. , Sylvestre A. , Vallée C.
Published: February 2009

Hydrogenated barium titanate films (a-BaTiO3:H) were grown by rf magnetron sputtering under hydrogen containing atmospheres. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared analyses were carried out in order to get insight on composition and chemical bonds. Impedance spectroscopy was used to investigate the dielectric behavior at low-temperature range. The strong O–H stretch band (at around 3500 cm−1) evidenced in the infrared spectrum clearly manifests the presence of protons in the hydrogenated material. The incorporation of protons during the deposition of a-BaTiO3:H films hugely modifies their electrical properties. These films exhibit large capacitance that is hundred times higher than the one measured when the film is grown without hydrogen. On the other hand, the presence of positively charged protons can contribute to the conduction process by introducing two main features. The first is related to a significant migration of proton between adjacent oxygen sites with an activation energy of 0.37 eV. This behavior might be responsible for the high protonic conductivity depicted in our material at temperature higher than −30 °C. Furthermore, protons were shown to engender hydrogen bonds in the structure. As a result, the dielectric relaxation observed at temperature below −30 °C could be ascribed to the dissociation of the hydrogen bonds. Activation energy for this process is around 0.26 eV.
Mechanical properties of anodic aluminum oxide for microelectromechanical system applications
Authors: Moreno-Hagelsieb L. , Flandre D. , Raskin J.-P.
Published: February 2009

Aluminum oxide features good electrical properties such as high dielectric constant and high breakdown voltage. During these last years it has been introduced for the fabrication of metal oxide semiconductor and metal insulator metal capacitors. In the present paper, the mechanical properties of anodic Al2O3 are addressed as well as its interest for microelectromechanical system applications including membranes or cantilevers for humidity, flow, pressure, or biological sensors.