bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polymer Light‐emitting Diodes Based on End‐capped Poly[9,9‐di‐(2′‐ethylhexyl)fluorenyl‐2,7‐diyl]
Authors: Zhang Qiushu
Published: September 2010

We demonstrate polymer light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) based on poly[9,9‐di‐(2′‐ethylhexyl)fluorenyl‐2,7‐diyl] with end capper dimethylphenyl or N,N‐bis(4‐methylphenyl)‐N‐phenylamine. The introduction of end‐capper groups increased the device luminance and efficiency, while greatly depressing the green emission. For the devices constructed of poly[9,9‐di‐(2′‐ethylhexyl)fluorenyl‐2,7‐diyl] end capped with dimethylphenyl, the maximum luminance reached 381 cd/m2 at 122 mA/cm2. The maximum external quantum efficiency was 0.16% at 117 mA/cm2, which is more than five times higher than that of the non‐end‐capped polymer LEDs. The electroluminescence (EL) maximum was at 485 nm, blue shifted by 52 nm with respect to that of the non‐end‐capped polyfluorene devices. It is proposed that efficient hole trapping at end capper and increased resistance of polyfluorene to oxidation are responsible for the improved device performance and color stability.
Preparation of Au Nanoparticles on Surface of Two Supports by Adsorption Phase Synthesis
Authors: Jiang Xin , Wang Ting , Chen Shi
Published: September 2010

By utilizing adsorption phase synthesis (APS), Au nanoparticles were prepared on the surface of SiO2 with or without modification by Ni(OH)2. TEM, XRD, and UV‐vis were employed to characterize the morphology of Au particles on the surface of two kinds of supports. The results showed that the average size of Au particles on the SiO2 surface modified by Ni(OH)2 was less than 5 nm. Due to high surface isoelectric point, Au particles formed in the adsorption layer were prone to distribute on the surface of SiO2 modified by Ni(OH)2. With content of Ni(OH)2 in samples increasing, more Au particles with small size appeared on the support surface.
An Efficient and Economical Method for the Preparation of Fmoc‐Argω,ω′(Boc)2‐OH
Authors: Zhu Ruixin , Xie Ming , Wang Fei , Liu Qi , Kang Tingguo
Published: September 2010

The arginine derivative Fmoc‐Argω,ω′(Boc)2‐OH has been prepared in perfect yield starting from Fmoc‐Orn·HCl and N,N′‐di‐Boc‐N′′‐triflyguanidine with the presence of diisopropylethylamine (DIEA). This work provides an efficient and economical method for the preparation of this compound.
Renin Inhibitors in Chronic Heart Failure: The Aliskiren Observation of Heart Failure Treatment Study in Context
Authors: Krum Henry , Maggioni Aldo
Published: September 2010

Renin‐angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) activation is a key neurohormonal contributor to the progression of chronic heart failure. Strategies that block this activation have consistently demonstrated major beneficial impacts on morbidity and mortality in this setting. Direct renin inhibitors (DRIs) present a novel opportunity to block at an additional or alternative step in this pathway, that being conversion of angiotensinogen to angiotensin I. Theoretical benefits of blocking at the level of renin include: inhibition of the reflex activation of plasma renin activity induced by conventional downstream RAAS blockers. Minimization of angiotensin II and/or aldosterone escape and blocking upstream at the rate‐limiting step of angiotensin I production. Preclinical and early‐phase clinical studies have largely supported this hypothesis. In the Aliskiren Observation of Heart Failure Treatment study, patients with systolic chronic heart failure receiving background angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers and β‐blockers benefited from aliskiren in reduction vs placebo of plasma levels of brain natriuretic peptide, the primary efficacy endpoint of that study. Large‐scale outcome trials are, however, required to definitively determine the benefits of a DRI strategy additional to, or as an alternative to, conventional approaches such as ACE inhibitors in the systolic chronic heart failure setting. Copyright © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.
Evaluation of River Water Quality Simulations at a Daily Time Step – Experience with SWAT in the Axe Catchment, UK
Authors: Glavan Matjaž , White Sue , Holman Ian P.
Published: September 2010

The Water Framework Directive (WFD) was established for the protection of surface waters (rivers, lakes, transitional and coastal waters) and ground waters in the European Union. The main environmental objective is to achieve and maintain a good status for all waters by the target date of 2015. Models which are able to address the majority of environmental objectives are proposed within the WFD to inform the management changes required to meet current water policy goals. The use of the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) catchment model is widespread throughout the world, especially to support river basin management as required by the WFD. This paper provides a critical evaluation of the use of the model by placing model performance in the Axe catchment, UK, in the context of international performance of the model. Within the constraints of the available data, SWAT represents hydrology, sediment and ortho‐phosphorus concentration well for this heterogeneous catchment, but the representation of daily nitrogen concentration dynamics is poor. Temporal aggregation of model outputs from daily to monthly improved the performance metrics for all the river outputs, including nitrate. Wider review of SWAT studies showed widespread reporting of monthly performance metrics within the SWAT studies, despite the model operating at a daily time step. Poor performance for nitrate identified in this current study may be a significant factor in the choice to not report daily results. This demonstrates the importance of ascertaining the reasons for the use of temporal aggregation in modelling studies.
Composition of the migratory mass during development of the olfactory nerve
Authors: Miller Alexandra M. , Treloar Helen B. , Greer Charles A.
Published: September 2010

The embryonic development of the olfactory nerve includes the differentiation of cells within the olfactory placode, migration of cells into the mesenchyme from the placode, and extension of axons by the olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs). The coalition of both placode‐derived migratory cells and OSN axons within the mesenchyme is collectively termed the “migratory mass.” Here we address the sequence and coordination of the events that give rise to the migratory mass. Using neuronal and developmental markers, we show subpopulations of neurons emerging from the placode by embryonic day (E)10, a time at which the migratory mass is largely cellular and only a few isolated OSN axons are seen, prior to the first appearance of OSN axon fascicles at E11. These neurons also precede the emergence of the gonadotropin‐releasing hormone neurons and ensheathing glia which are also resident in the mesenchyme as part of the migratory mass beginning at about E11. The data reported here begin to establish a spatiotemporal framework for the migration of molecularly heterogeneous placode‐derived cells in the mesenchyme. The precocious emigration of the early arriving neurons in the mesenchyme suggests they may serve as “guidepost cells” that contribute to the establishment of a scaffold for the extension and coalescence of the OSN axons. J. Comp. Neurol. 518:4825–4841, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multiresolution algorithms for the numerical solution of hyperbolic conservation laws
Authors: Harten Ami
Published: September 2010

Given any scheme in conservation form and an appropriate uniform grid for the numerical solution of the initial value problem for one‐dimensional hyperbolic conservation laws we describe a multiresolution algorithm that approximates this numerical solution to a prescribed tolerance in an efficient manner. To do so we consider the grid‐averages of the numerical solution for a hierarchy of nested diadic grids in which the given grid is the finest, and introduce an equivalent multiresolution representation. The multiresolution representation of the numerical solution consists of its grid‐averages for the coarsest grid and the set of errors in predicting the grid‐averages of each level of resolution in this hierarchy from those of the next coarser one. Once the numerical solution is resolved to our satisfaction in a certain locality of some grid, then the prediction errors there are small for this particular grid and all finer ones; this enables us to compress data by setting to zero small components of the representation which fall below a prescribed tolerance. Therefore instead of computing the time‐evolution of the numerical solution on the given grid we compute the time‐evolution of its compressed multiresolution representation. Algorithmically this amounts to computing the numerical fluxes of the given scheme at the points of the given grid by a hierarchical algorithm which starts with the computation of these numerical fluxes at the points of the coarsest grid and then proceeds through diadic refinements to the given grid. At each step of refinement we add the values of the numerical flux at the center of the coarser cells. The information in the multiresolution representation of the numerical solution is used to determine whether the solution is locally well‐resolved. When this is the case we replace the costly exact value of the numerical flux with an accurate enough approximate value which is obtained by an inexpensive interpolation from the coarser grid. The computational efficiency of this multiresolution algorithm is proportional to the rate of data compression (for a prescribed level of tolerance) that can be achieved for the numerical solution of the given scheme.
Study on the mechanism of potential response of a ketamine‐sensitive membrane electrode
Authors: Ling Yunyun , Yang Ya , Bian Shizhong , Tu Yifeng
Published: September 2010

The response mechanism of a simple device for the rapid detection of ketamine with ‘in the field’ capabilities is investigated. The mechanism is a membranous ketamine ionic selective electrode (ISE) with partly carboxylated PVC as matrix andortho‐nitrophenyloctyl ether (o‐NPOE) as plasticizer. The experimental results reveal that the inclusion of the plasticizer in the membrane significantly increased the response. A mechanism is proposed where the infiltration of a target species into the membrane is capable of producing a superior response. This response process is non‐selective for species with similar molecular structure and size. This new research addresses some omissions and misapprehension in the literature where the mechanism was reported as an ion‐exchange‐induced response. In this research the ion‐exchange‐induced response was measurable after the elimination of the infiltration‐induced response extending to lower concentration ranges and thus providing the potential for better sensitivity and selectivity. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The state of the art of residue analysis: the 6th VDRA symposium 2010
Authors: De Brabander H. F. , Vanden Bussche J. , Wille K. , Bekaert K. , Vanhaecke L.
Published: September 2010

Since the onset of residue analysis (ca 40 years ago) a lot of attention has been paid to the amelioration of analytical methods, for example, lowering the limits of detection (LOD) and limits of quantification (LOQ) or decision limits (CCα) and detection capabilities (CCβ), including an increase in the number of analytes, shortening runtimes, increasing sample throughput, amongst others. The state of the art in residue analysis, which was presented at the VDRA 2010 symposium (Hormone and Veterinary Drug Residue Analysis) in Ghent is reviewed in this article. From an analytical point of view, the use of ultra high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) hyphenated with accurate mass spectrometry is often used in combination with other (biological) detection systems and ‘omic’ approaches. Through these techniques more xenobiotic substances turn out to be naturally occurring in some matrices and/or circumstances (e.g. thiouracil, chloramphenicol and semicarbazide). Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimum and suboptimum channel estimation for the uplink of CDMA mobile radio systems with joint detection
Authors: Steiner Bernd , Jung Peter
Published: September 2010

In the present paper, channel estimation in the uplink of CDMA mobile radio systems with burst transmission applying joint detection is considered. The different radio channels are estimated at the receiver using known midamble codes. Either maximum‐likelihood, i.e. optimum, or suboptimum channel estimation can be realized at the receiver. Several methods for constructing code sets for the simultaneously active users are proposed. It is shown that the structure of the channel estimator for a multi‐user synchronous CDMA mobile radio system is the same as for a single‐user system when the mid amble codes of the users are segments derived from a single basic code. Furthermore, it is shown that the channel estimator can be implemented as a correlator when the midamble codes are constructed from a periodic basic code. Finally, the effect of noisy channel estimation, i.e. the presence of channel estimation errors, on the detected data is examined.
General approach for the comparison of spectrum efficiency of digital mobile radio systems
Authors: Falciasecca G. , Caini C. , Riva G. , Frullone M.
Published: September 2010

Evaluation of spectrum efficiency in mobile radio systems is often performed by different authors starting from different working assumptions; that yields results that are not easily comparable outside the “scenario” where they have been achieved. This paper attempts to settle this controversial matter providing some criteria for overcoming these difficulties. The results of this investigation allow to assess that relative capacity comparisons are fairly independent of some quality parameters, such as specified outage probability, or propagation parameters, such as the standard deviation of lognormal shadowing, so that these parameters need not complicate the comparison of competing approaches. As a consequence, a very simple scenario, providing an adequate basis for deriving constant efficiency curves, turns out to be of great relevance for comparisons. Associated with it, a graphic tool, allowing to perform quick relative comparisons among systems, is presented.
Letter: Analysis of concatenated reed‐solomon encoding schemes with full and partial interleaving for short data messages
Authors: Cancellieri Giovanni , Chiaraluce Franco , Guidotti Giovanni
Published: September 2010

A concatenation of Reed‐Solomon and repetition codes with symbol interleaving is considered for applications in which the message length is limited and the probability of incorrect received symbols is high. An analysis is developed with reference to a Packet Radio Network, using Spread Spectrum modulation, simultaneously affected by random errors and burst errors. The results obtained are compared with those derived by numerical simulation. It is shown that a canonical formulation can be used for the case of full interleavers, but it cannot be applied to encoding schemes with partial interleavers. In the latter situation a modified, improved, approach is proposed.
Input rate flow control for high speed communications networks using burst level feedback control
Authors: Rubin Izhak , Lin K. David
Published: September 2010

We propose a new input rate flow control scheme wherein the credit increment rate is updated periodically as the loading status varies. Based upon the observed status of each station's burst‐level activity, the network access node distributes feedback control signaling messages to the stations. These signaling messages allow the stations to adapt their credit increment rates in accordance with system burst‐loading conditions. The Generic Flow Control (GFC) field of the ATM cell header can be used to carry information characterizing the burst‐level loading activity at the switch used in the proposed scheme. We also present queueing models to study the system performance at the network access points. For this purpose, we select a sub‐network topology which involves a network switch (such as a fast packet switch in high‐speed metropolitan or wide area networks) and a number of regulated source stations which drive the network switch. To avoid packet retransmissions due to cell losses at the access switch, each user station (or CPN) implements locally a replica of the input regulation scheme. The output traffic streams from the source stations, as regulated by the local input rate control mechanism (and adapted by the status messages), load a packet switch which is modeled as a multiple‐server queueing system. Performance curves are presented to illustrate the statistical queue‐size behavior and message delays at both the source stations and the network switch.
A review of voice, data and video traffic models for ATM
Authors: Cosmas John P. , Petit Guido H. , Lehnert Ralf , Blondia Chris , Kontovassilis Kimon , Casals Olga , Theimer Thomas
Published: September 2010

This paper describes the main statistical features of voice, data and video sources, defines a set of selection criteria for selecting source models for these sources, describes a number of relevant source models for representing these sources and recommends the best source models based on the results of the parameterisation of these models from measured data.
The pan‐European mobile radio system: Part I
Authors: Hanzo L. , Steele R.
Published: September 2010

Following the launch of the Pan‐European digital mobile radio (GSM) system its salient features are summarised in this tutorial review [1,8]. Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) with eight users per carrier is used at a multi‐user rate of 271 kbit/s, demanding a channel equaliser to combat dispersion. The error protected chip‐rate of the full‐rate traffic channels is 22.8 kbit/s, while in half‐rate channels is 11.4 kbit/s. There are two speech traffic channels, five different‐rate data traffic channels and 14 various control and signalling channels to support the system's operation. A moderately complex, 13 kbit/s Regular Pulse Excited speech codec with long term predictor (LTP) is used, combined with an embedded three‐class error correction codec and multi‐layer interleaving to provide sensitivity‐matched unequal error protection for the speech bits. An overall speech delay of 57.5 ms is maintained. Slow frequency hopping at 217 hops/s yields substantial performance gains for slowly moving pedestrians.
Asynchronous polarization diversity receivers for coherent optical communications: A performance review
Authors: Gini Fulvio , Luise Marco
Published: September 2010

The performance of coherent receivers in optical communication systems is impaired by polarization mismatchings between the received optical signal and the local laser field. One of the most effective techniques to cope with such a phenomenon is the use of polarization‐diversity receivers which, at the cost of a higher complexity in the optical front‐end and a small performance degradation, guarantee insensitivity to changes in the state of polarization of the received signal. The goal of this paper is twofold: firstly, we present here an exact theoretical analysis of balanced polarization‐diversity receivers for ASK, FSK or DPSK modulation schemes in the shot‐noise‐limited regime, deriving closed‐form expressions for the receiver Bit Error Rate (BER) of each of the cited modulations. Secondly, we assess the sensitivity of the same receivers to a slowly‐varying frequency detuning of the heterodyne laser, in order to allow for a well‐aimed design of the Automatic Frequency Control (AFC) circuit of the local laser. This work was performed in the Framework of the “Telecommunications” project funded by the Italian National Research Council (CNR).
Letter: Spacing of lumped amplifiers in soliton transmission
Authors: Carassa Francesco
Published: September 2010

Lumped amplifiers evenly spaced along a fiber represent a very important solution for attenuation compensation in the case of soliton transmission [1, 2, 6 ‐ 15]. This paper deals with the problem of evaluating (in the absence of noise) the maximum amplifier spacing compatible with the conditions for soliton propagation. The analysis is based on a simple approach to solitons, and it attains physical evidence by making reference to a well‐known property, i.e. that solitons in the lossless fiber [1 ‐ 5] are able to produce a continuous compensation between a modulation angle due to dispersion and a modulation angle due to non‐linearity. The first paragraph will illustrate the mentioned approach for the lossless fiber, which will be extended, in the last paragraph, to the attenuating fiber with lumped amplifiers.
Threshold cryptography
Authors: Desmedt Yvo G.
Published: September 2010

In the traditional scenario in cryptography there is one sender, one receiver and an active or passive eavesdropper who is an opponent. Large bank transactions require two people to sign, implying two senders. So the power to generate a valid transaction is shared. Threshold cryptography allows one to share the power of a cryptosystem. Threshold cryptosystems are distinct from threshold schemes in which the power to regenerate a secret key is shared. A normal threshold scheme is not directly suited for threshold signatures. Using a threshold scheme directly would require the shareholders to send their shares to a trusted person who would apply the cryptosystem for them. But the use of such a trusted person violates the main point of threshold cryptography. We motivate the need for treshold cryptosystems, overview the research in the field, and give some simple examples. We will conclude by giving a list of open problems.
VLSI implementation of a signal interpolator chip for high‐speed all‐digital data modems
Authors: Luise Marco , Roncella Roberto
Published: September 2010

This paper describes the structure of a signal interpolator chip to be used in medium‐to‐high data rate digital modems, based on the so‐called “Systolic Macrocells” design style. In particular, we focus on a third‐order polynomial interpolation algorithm, as a good trade‐off between the contrasting needs of high accuracy and low complexity/cost. We also present a concise description of the architecture of the chip through a functional description of the main basic systolic macrocells it is composed of. Despite the apparent complexity of the architecture, the basic cells of each bit‐level systolic array are remarkably simple and homogeneous: they are mainly composed by delays and summing elements such as full and half adders, so that their realization does not represent a difficult design task. The interpolator chip has been completely laid out assuming a 1.2 μ m CMOS technology and occupies a silicon area of 5 × 4.5 mm2, pad included. In particular, we envisage an operating clock frequency of 70 MHz, so that the chip can process sequences of 8 bit words at the rate of 17.5 MSamples/s with a power supply requirement of less than 0.5 W.
Transmission issues for HDTV satellite systems
Authors: Ferrari Marco , Castellani Valentino , Lo Cigno Renato , Losquadro Giacinto , Tabone Mirto
Published: September 2010

The transmission of digital HDTV signals on satellite channels in the 20–30 GHz band is studied with the aim of designing an Italian domestic satellite, both for the exchange of programs among production centers and for direct broadcasting to end‐users. Previous work on the definition of the system architecture and of the payloads is first briefly summarized. The transmission impairments due to the interfered environment are then analyzed in detail and simulation studies are reported. The results confirm the choices made for the link budgets during the system configuration design. Experimental tests carried out both with laboratory simulators and with the Olympus European satellite are finally described.
An adaptive DSP predistortion technique for radio systems
Authors: Visintin Monica
Published: September 2010

A simple implementation of an analog predistorter for nonlinear HPA is described. Good performance is obtainable in terms of BER, and bandwidth occupancy of the signal after the amplifier. The described technique is independent of the modulation format and of the filter characteristics. Results are given for 16‐QAM and 64‐QAM modulation schemes.
Robust vector quantization for noisy channels using soft decision and sequential decoding
Authors: Cuperman Vladimir , Liu Feng‐Hua , Ho Paul
Published: September 2010

This paper considers the optimization of a vector quantizer whose indices are transmitted over a channel with known noise statistics (pdf). A decoder is introduced which uses a linear combination of VQ codebook entries with weights depending on the received signal. Rather than using a received index to select an entry in the codebook (which implies a hard decision on the index), the decoder uses the received signal and the channel statistics to weight the codebook entries in order to produce a good reconstructed signal. Borrowing a term used in digital communications, we will say that the optimal decoder uses a “soft” decision rule. The corresponding approach will be called Soft Decision Vector Quantization (SDVQ). It is shown that SDVQ achieves a significant performance improvement over both the source optimized VQ and the channel optimized VQ (the latter is based on known channel transition probabilities). For correlated sources, it is shown that SDVQ performance can be further improved by using sequential decoding. Results are presented for an AR(1) source and for speech line spectral pair (LSP) parameter quantization at 24 bits/frame.
Letter: On uniform distance property of multilevel block 8‐PSK modulation
Authors: Hofmann Karl Heinrich
Published: September 2010

For upper bounding the word error probability of block codes by application of the union bound, in general the uniform distance property (distance invariance) of the code must be guaranteed. This property says that the distance spectrum of a code is independent of the choice of the reference codeword. In the sequel new sufficient conditions for multilevel block 8‐PSK modulation codes to be distance invariant are derived.
Morphology and anatomy of anomalous short shoots in Pinus (Pinaceae) and their evolutionary meaning
Authors: Dörken Veit Martin , Stephan Gerrit , Stützel Thomas
Published: September 2010

Recent Pinus ‐species are evergreen and have a typical long shoot/short shoot differentiation. For angiosperms we could show that this type of shoot differentiation is linked to deciduousness (Dörken & Stützel 2009). Evergreen angiosperms with prominent shoot differentiation are derived from deciduous ancestors. The primitive evergreen condition is however characterized by the absence of a shoot differentiation. Here it is therefore analysed if the shoot differentiation in Pinus could be regarded as a reminder of a deciduous ancestry. In such a context Pinus monophylla would be functionally closest to a primitive evergreen angiosperm and represent a nearly perfect secondary adaptation to the needs of an evergreen species. Morphology and anatomy of aberrant short shoots in Pinus ‐species have been analysed to test this hypothesis. We suppose that the ancestor of Pinus had several needle leaves inserted spirally on a well developed short shoot axis ending in a terminal bud, as it can be found in Larix today (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Origin of Potentilla crantzii, P. verna and P. puberula (Rosaceae) with a note on the nomenclature of P. pusilla
Authors: Soják Jiří
Published: September 2010

The mode of origin of Potentilla crantzii (quinate leaves) from the Asian P. gelida (ternate leaves) can be observed in Tien Shan and in mountains of southern Siberia even at present. Transitional forms between them also occur in the far North‐East of Asian Russia and from the Ural to Norway.

Potentilla puberula (P. pusilla according to contemporary authors) did not originate by hybridization between P. incana (P. arenaria) and P. verna (P. tabernaemontani), as is usually assumed. On the contrary, P. verna is derived from the hybrid species P. puberula, i.e., from the offspring of crosses between P. heptaphylla and P. incana. It arose from them by way of gradual loss of stellate and partly reduced stellate hairs. This process took place mainly in the past but may be documented reliably.

The name P. pusilla Host 1831 has been used since 1949 for the hybrid plants mentioned. The monographer of the genus Wolf (1908: 601) studied its type specimen and ascertained that it has only simple hairs, determining it as P. verna L. The type specimen of P. pusilla is currently lost. The name is doubtful. It is recommended herein to replaced it with the name P. puberula Krašan 1867 (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Numerical assessment of hydrodynamic characteristics in chlorine contact tank
Authors: Amini R. , Taghipour R. , Mirgolbabaei H.
Published: September 2010

In the present study, a three‐dimensional numerical approach is applied to simulate the velocity field and tracer experimental studies performed in a scaled‐down physical model of Embsay chlorine contact tank being used in U.K. It is found that the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model could accurately predict the hydrodynamics of the tank so that, using the developed CFD models, further investigations are conducted in six tanks with different number of baffles to explore the effect of their numbers on the hydraulic characteristics of the unit. The results show the existence of recirculation areas behind the baffles in a way that the extension of these regions dwindles with increasing the number of baffles, leading the fluid flow to approach plug‐flow conditions. Baffle wall arrangement are conducted, to improve the unit's performance in terms of higher effective contact time (lower Morrill Index). The results from the new proposed arrangement with six baffle walls show an improvement of about 13% increase in effective contact time compared with that of the original baffle arrangement. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fuel Cell Powered Vehicles Using Supercapacitors–Device Characteristics, Control Strategies, and Simulation Results
Authors: Zhao H. , Burke A. F.
Published: September 2010

The fuel cell powered vehicle is one of the most attractive candidates for the future due to its high efficiency and capability to use hydrogen as the fuel. However, its relatively poor dynamic response, high cost and limited life time have impeded its widespread adoption. With the emergence of large supercapacitors (also know as ultracapacitors, UCs) with high power density and the shift to hybridisation in the vehicle technology, fuel cell/supercapacitor hybrid fuel cell vehicles are gaining more attention. Fuel cells in conjunction with supercapacitors can create high power with fast dynamic response, which makes it well suitable for automotive applications. Hybrid fuel cell vehicles with different powertrain configurations have been evaluated based on simulations performed at the Institute of Transportation Studies, University of California‐Davis. The following powertrain configurations have been considered:

(a)Direct hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) without energy storage

(b)FCVs with supercapacitors directly connected in parallel with fuel cells

(c)FCVs with supercapacitors coupled in parallel with fuel cells through a DC/DC converter

(d)FCVs with fuel cells connected to supercapacitorsviaa DC/DC converter
A prognostic DNA signature for T1T2 node‐negative breast cancer patients
Authors: Gravier Eléonore , Pierron Gaëlle , Vincent‐Salomon Anne , Gruel Nadège , Raynal Virginie , Savignoni Alexia , De Rycke Yann , Pierga Jean‐Yves , Lucchesi Carlo , Reyal Fabien , Fourquet Alain , Roman‐Roman Sergio , Radvanyi François , Sastre‐Garau Xavier , Asselain Bernard , Delattre Olivier
Published: September 2010

Predicting evolution of small node‐negative breast carcinoma is a real challenge in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to search whether qualitative or quantitative DNA changes may help to predict metastasis of small node‐negative breast carcinoma. Small invasive ductal carcinomas without axillary lymph node involvement (T1T2N0) from 168 patients with either good (111 patients with no event at 5 years after diagnosis) or poor (57 patients with early metastasis) outcome were analyzed with comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) array. A CGH classifier, identifying low‐ and high‐risk groups of metastatic recurrence, was established in a training set of 78 patients, then validated, and compared with clinicopathological parameters in a distinct set of 90 patients. The genomic status of regions located on 2p22.2, 3p23, and 8q21‐24 and the number of segmental alterations were defined in the training set to classify tumors into low‐ or high‐risk groups. In the validation set, in addition to estrogen receptors and grade, this CGH classifier provided significant prognostic information in multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 3.34; 95% confidence interval 1.01–11.02; P = 4.78 × 10−2, Wald test). This study shows that tumor DNA contains important prognostic information that may help to predict metastasis in T1T2N0 tumors of the breast. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential regulation of TP73 isoforms by 1α,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 and survivin in human colon and breast carcinomas
Authors: Díaz Raquel , González‐Sancho José M. , Soldevilla Beatriz , Silva Javier , García José M. , García Vanesa , Peña Cristina , Herrera Mercedes , Gómez Irene , Bonilla Félix , Domínguez Gemma
Published: September 2010

We evaluate whether 1,25(OH)2D3 downregulates TP73 variants in colon and breast carcinomas, the role of survivin in this context, and the significance of this network in the clinic. Tumor cells were treated/untreated with 1,25(OH)2D3 and transiently transfected with survivin. Levels of survivin and TP73 variants were evaluated by quantitative RT‐PCR and Western blotting. In 75 colon and 60 breast cancer patients, the expressions of survivin and TP73 isoforms were determined. Tumor characteristics were examined in each patient. Survivin protein levels were also evaluated in a subgroup of patients and cell lines. Decrease in survivin and TAp73 transcripts and protein and ΔNp73 mRNA was detected after 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment. Ectopic survivin expression led to an increase in the TAp73, ΔNp73, ΔEx2p73, and ΔEx2‐3p73 transcripts. In cancer patients, direct correlations were observed between TP73 variants and survivin levels. 1,25(OH)2D3 negatively regulate survivin and TP73 variants in colon and breast cancer cells. Positive regulation of TP73 isoforms by survivin may exist, which reinforces the possibility that the downregulation of TP73 forms by 1,25(OH)2D3 is survivin‐dependent. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A formalized approach to analysis of geoarchaeological sediment samples: The location of the early punic Harbor at Carthage, Tunisia
Authors: Vitali V. , Gifford J. A. , Djindjian F. , Rapp G.
Published: September 2010

This article concerns, first, the development of an approach to data analysis of sedimentological, micro‐ and macrofaunal, and artifactual data obtained from analysis of geoarchaeological sediment core samples and, second, an algorithmic ordering of resulting sediment groups to arrive at a definitive stratigraphic sequence. Correspondence analysis (CA) was the principal data analysis technique applied, and the algorithmic ordering is one developed for discrete sampling sequences such as core transects. From a methodological standpoint, this approach allows an assessment of the usefulness of different types of analytical information pertaining to a paleoenvironmental reconstruction of a coastal archaeological site. In terms of the geoarchaeological problem that initiated the study, the results permit a possible reconstruction of the location and nature of the first Punic port at Carthage, Tunisia.
Testing for non‐random mating: evidence for ancestry‐related assortative mating in the Framingham heart study
Authors: Sebro Ronnie , Hoffman Thomas J. , Lange Christoph , Rogus John J. , Risch Neil J.
Published: September 2010

Population stratification leads to a predictable phenomenon—a reduction in the number of heterozygotes compared to that calculated assuming Hardy‐Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE). We show that population stratification results in another phenomenon—an excess in the proportion of spouse‐pairs with the same genotypes at all ancestrally informative markers, resulting in ancestrally related positive assortative mating. We use principal components analysis to show that there is evidence of population stratification within the Framingham Heart Study, and show that the first principal component correlates with a North‐South European cline. We then show that the first principal component is highly correlated between spouses (r = 0.58, p = 0.0013), demonstrating that there is ancestrally related positive assortative mating among the Framingham Caucasian population. We also show that the single nucleotide polymorphisms loading most heavily on the first principal component show an excess of homozygotes within the spouses, consistent with similar ancestry‐related assortative mating in the previous generation. This nonrandom mating likely affects genetic structure seen more generally in the North American population of European descent today, and decreases the rate of decay of linkage disequilibrium for ancestrally informative markers. Genet. Epidemiol. 34: 674‐679, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Accelerated liver fibrosis in hepatitis B virus transgenic mice: Involvement of natural killer T cells
Authors: Jin Zixue , Sun Rui , Wei Haiming , Gao Xiang , Chen Yongyan , Tian Zhigang
Published: September 2010

The immunopathogenic process from hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection to liver fibrosis is incompletely understood because it lacks an animal model. In this study we observed the development of liver fibrosis in HBV transgenic (HBV-tg) mice and found the roles of natural killer T (NKT) cells in HBV-related liver fibrosis. We found liver fibrosis spontaneously developed in HBV-tg mice with the elevated transcription of col1a1, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)2, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)1. Mice were then injected with repetitive hepatotoxin carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) to induce prominent liver fibrosis. After chronic CCl4 treatment, the serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) was higher, the liver regenerative nodules became more and bigger, and the fibrosis area was remarkably increased in HBV-tg mice than in C57BL/6 mice. Moreover, the increase in col1a1 and MMP2 transcription was greater, with a sustaining high level of TIMP1 and a greater activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in the livers of CCl4-treated HBV-tg mice. Our data also showed that there were more liver mononuclear cells (MNCs) in HBV-tg mice after CCl4 injection, and Rag1−/− mice adoptive transferred lymphocytes from HBV-tg mice displayed increased collagen deposition. Further study demonstrated the number of liver NKT cells increased after CCl4 treatment and NKT cells were overactivated in HBV-tg mice in the long term. It was further confirmed that NKT cells were critical for HSCs activation by depletion of NKT cells of HBV-tg mice and adoptive transfer of purified NKT cells from HBV-tg mice into recipient Rag1−/− mice. The inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-13 produced by NKT cells played a pivotal role in HSCs activation in an

in vitro

coculture experiment.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that NKT cells from HBV-tg mice induce the HSC activation in liver fibrogenesis. (Hepatology 2011;.)
Organic anion–transporting polypeptide 1b2 (Oatp1b2) is important for the hepatic uptake of unconjugated bile acids: Studies in Oatp1b2-null mice
Authors: Csanaky Iván L. , Lu Hong , Zhang Youcai , Ogura Kenichiro , Choudhuri Supratim , Klaassen Curtis D.
Published: September 2010

The organic anion–transporting polypeptide 1b family (Oatp1b2 in rodents and OATP1B1/1B3 in humans) is liver-specific and transports various chemicals into the liver. However, the role of the Oatp1b family in the hepatic uptake of bile acids (BAs) into the liver is unknown. Therefore, in Oatp1b2-null mice, the concentrations of BAs in plasma, liver, and bile were compared with wild-type (WT) mice. It was first determined that livers of the Oatp1b2-null mice were not compensated by altered expression of other hepatic transporters. However, the messenger RNA of Cyp7a1 was 70% lower in the Oatp1b2-null mice. Increased expression of fibroblast growth factor 15 in intestines of Oatp1b2-null mice might be responsible for decreased hepatic expression of Cyp7a1 in Oatp1b2-null mice. The hepatic concentration and biliary excretion of conjugated and unconjugated BAs were essentially the same in Oatp1b2-null and WT mice. The serum concentration of taurine-conjugated BAs was essentially the same in the two genotypes. In contrast, the serum concentrations of unconjugated BAs were 3-45 times higher in Oatp1b2-null than WT mice. After intravenous administration of cholate to Oatp1b2-null mice, its clearance was 50% lower than in WT mice, but the clearance of taurocholate was similar in the two genotypes.

Conclusion:

This study indicates that Oatp1b2 has a major role in the hepatic uptake of unconjugated BAs. (Hepatology 2011.)
Neurocognitive perspectives in language outcomes of Early Head Start: Language and cognitive stimulation and maternal depression
Authors: Chapin Laurie A. , Altenhofen Shannon
Published: September 2010

A neurocognitive, developmental framework was used to examine the effectiveness of Early Head Start (EHS) programs. Evidence has shown that caregiver variables impact early brain development. This study aimed to better understand this relation. Results showed that the EHS program made no significant impact, and at 3 years old, children were significantly behind population norms in language development, partially replicating previous findings with children from poverty backgrounds. EHS and parental depression were significant predictors of language and cognitive stimulation; however, depression and stimulation, but not involvement in EHS, were significant predictors of vocabulary. Implications for EHS programs are discussed, such as addressing caregiver variables (e.g., depression) and increasing focus on services to expectant families. Future directions also are discussed, such as understanding how young children's stress, within the context of caregiver variables, is related to neurocognitive outcomes.
Maternal depression and parental distress among families in the Early Head Start Research and Evaluation Project: Risk factors within the family setting
Authors: Rafferty Yvonne , Griffin Kenneth W. , Robokos Dimitra
Published: September 2010

This study examined the influence of risk factors within the family environment (inadequate resources, insufficient caregiving support from child's father, higher family conflict) on maternal well being (depression and parental distress) using a longitudinal panel research design. Participants consisted of 2,040 low‐income mothers of young children enrolled in the Early Head Start (EHS) Research and Evaluation Project. Findings indicated that greater family resources at 14 months had a protective effect on maternal well‐being at 36 months, controlling for demographic variables and maternal well‐being at 14 months. Furthermore, the effect of family resources on maternal well‐being was moderated by father caregiving support, such that family resources were protective, particularly when father caregiving support was lower. Family conflict at 14 months was associated with lower maternal well‐being at 36 months, controlling for demographic variables and maternal well‐being at 14 months. Our findings suggest that low‐income mothers need the support and resources of programs such as EHS to overcome the hurdles and challenges of parenting in high‐risk settings. Implications for clinical practice and EHS are discussed.
Transitioning the patient with acute coronary syndrome from inpatient to primary care
Authors: Villanueva Tomás
Published: September 2010

Patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) undergo several transitions in care throughout the hospital stay, from prehospitalization to the postdischarge period when patients return to primary care. Hospitalist core competencies promote safe transitions in care for patients with ACS, including hospital discharge. These competencies also highlight the central role of the hospitalist in facilitating the continuity of care and as a key link between the patient and the primary care provider (PCP). Core competencies address key decision points and processes that occur during hospitalization for ACS including the initial evaluation and risk stratification, medication reconciliation, and discharge planning. Discharge is a crucial transition and one where hospitalists can both facilitate the transition to primary care and improve adherence to quality measures established for ACS. Poor communication during discharge reportedly results in postdischarge adverse events, most often related to medications and lack of follow‐up related to pending test results. Standards for a safe discharge such as Project RED (Re‐Engineered Discharge), initiatives to improve outcomes after discharge like Project BOOST (Better Outcomes for Older Adults Through Safe Transitions), and adaptive tools including the ACS Transitions Tool support timely and accurate communication of complex information between the hospitalist, the PCP, and the patient. While the role of hospitalists is evolving, it is clear that they have a central role in ensuring safe transitions in care for ACS. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2010;5:S8–S14. © 2010 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Intranasal administration of adjuvant‐combined vaccine protects monkeys from challenge with the highly pathogenic influenza A H5N1 virus
Authors: Ichinohe Takeshi , Ainai Akira , Ami Yasushi , Nagata Noriyo , Iwata Naoko , Kawaguchi Akira , Suzaki Yuriko , Odagiri Takato , Tashiro Masato , Takahashi Hidehiro , Strayer David R. , Carter William A. , Chiba Joe , Tamura Shin‐ichi , Sata Tetsutaro , Kurata Takeshi , Hasegawa Hideki
Published: September 2010

The effectiveness in cynomolgus macaques of intranasal administration of an influenza A H5N1 pre‐pandemic vaccine combined with synthetic double‐stranded RNA (polyI/polyC12U) as an adjuvant was examined. The monkeys were immunized with the adjuvant‐combined vaccine on weeks 0, 3, and 5, and challenged with the homologous virus 2 weeks after the third immunization. After the second immunization, the immunization induced vaccine‐specific salivary IgA and serum IgG antibodies, as detected by ELISA. The serum IgG antibodies present 2 weeks after the third immunization not only had high neutralizing activity against the homologous virus, they also neutralized significantly heterologous influenza A H5N1 viruses. The vaccinated animals were protected completely from the challenge infection with the homologous virus. These results suggest that intranasal immunization with the Double stranded RNA‐combined influenza A H5N1 vaccine induce mucosal IgA and serum IgG antibodies which could protect humans from homologous influenza A H5N1 viruses which have a pandemic potential. J. Med. Virol. 82:1754–1761, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.