bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ontogeny of aerodynamics in Mallard ducks: comparative performance and developmental implications
Authors: Dial Terry R. , Tobalske Bret W. , Heers Ashley M. 
Published: August 2012

SummaryWing morphology correlates with flight performance and ecology among adult birds, yet the impact of wing development on aerodynamic capacity is not well understood. Recent work using chukar partridge (Alectoris chukar), a precocial flier, indicates that peak coefficients of lift and drag (CL, CD) and lift-to-drag ratio (CL:CD) increase throughout ontogeny and that these patterns correspond with changes in feather microstructure. To begin to place these results in a comparative context that includes variation in life-history strategy, we used a propeller and force-plate model to study aerodynamic force production across a developmental series of the altricial-flying mallard duck (Anas platyrhynchos). We observed the same trend in mallards as reported for chukar in that coefficients of vertical (CV) and horizontal force (CH) and CV:CH ratio increased with age, and that measures of gross-wing morphology (aspect ratio, camberporosity) in mallards did not account for intraspecific trends in force production. Rather, feather microstructure (feather unfurling, rachis width, feather asymmetry and barbule overlap) all were positively correlated with peak(CV:CH). Throughout ontogeny, mallard primary feathers became stiffer and less transmissive to air at both macroscale (between individual feathers) and microscale (between barbs/barbules/barbicels) levels. Differences between species were manifest primarily as heterochrony of aerodynamic force development. Chukar wings generated measureable aerodynamic forces early (&lt;8 days), and improved gradually throughout a 100-day ontogenetic period. Mallard wings exhibited delayed aerodynamic force production until just prior to fledging (day 60), and showed dramatic improvement within a condensed two-week period. These differences in timing may be related to mechanisms of escape used by juveniles, with mallards swimming to safety and chukar flap-running up slopes to take refuge. Future comparative work should test whether the need for early onset of aerodynamic force production in the chukar, compared with delayed, but rapid, change in the mallard wing, leads to a limited repertoire of flight behavior in adult chukar compared with mallards.
Dielektrische elektroaktive Polymere für strukturintegrierte Aktorik und Sensorik
Authors: Lotz Peter , Flittner Klaus , Haus Henry , Schlaak Helmut F. 
Published: August 2012

Zusammenfassung
Dielektrische elektroaktive Polymere (DEAP) sind eine Unterart von elektroaktiven Polymeren, die sich insbesondere zur Realisierung strukturintegrierter Aktor- und Sensorelemente eignen. Im aktorischen und sensorischen Betrieb verhalten sich dielektrische Elastomeraktoren (DEA) wie elektrostatische Aktoren bzw. Sensoren. Der Artikel stellt die Funktionsweise dar und erläutert die aktorischen und sensorischen Eigenschaften dieses aktiven Materials. Die Anwendungsmöglichkeiten werden anhand von drei unterschiedlichen Demonstratoren aufgezeigt.
Structural Health Monitoring by Distributed Fiber Optic Sensors Embedded into Technical Textiles
Authors: Krebber Katerina , Lenke Philipp , Liehr Sascha , Nöther Nils , Wendt Mario , Wosniok Aleksander , Daum Werner 
Published: August 2012

Abstract
Technical textiles with embedded distributed fiber optic sensors have been developed for the purposes of structural health monitoring in geotechnical and civil engineering. The distributed fiber optic sensors are based on Brillouin scattering in silica optical fibers and OTDR in polymer optical fibers. Such “smart” technical textiles are used for reinforcement of geotechnical and masonry structures. The embedded fiber optic sensors provide online information about the condition of the structure and about the occurrence and location of any damage or degradation.
Expression Profiling of Attenuated Mitochondrial Function Identifies Retrograde Signals inDrosophila
Authors: Freije William A , Mandal Sudip , Banerjee Utpal 
Published: August 2012

AbstractMitochondria are able to modulate cell state and fate during normal and pathophysiologic conditions through a nuclear-mediated mechanism collectively termed as a retrograde response. Our previous studies in Drosophila melanogaster have clearly established that progress through the cell cycle is precisely regulated by the intrinsic activity of the mitochondrion by specific signaling cascades mounted by the cell. As a means to further our understanding of how mitochondrial energy status affects nuclear control of basic cell decisions, we have employed Affymetrix microarray-based transcriptional profiling of Drosophila S2 cells knocked down for the gene encoding subunit Va of the complex IV of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. The profiling data identify transcriptional upregulation of glycolytic genes, and metabolic studies confirm this increase in glycolysis. The data provide a model of the shift of metabolism from a predominately oxidative state toward a predominately aerobic glycolytic state mediated through transcriptional control. The transcriptional changes alter many signaling systems, including p53, insulin, hypoxia-induced factor α, and conserved mitochondrial retrograde responses. This rich dataset provides many novel targets for further understanding the mechanism whereby the mitochondrion manages energy substrate disposition and directs cellular fate decisions.
Satellite DNA-Like Elements Associated With Genes Within Euchromatin of the Beetle Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Brajković Josip , Feliciello Isidoro , Bruvo-Mađarić Branka , Ugarković Đurđica 
Published: August 2012

Abstract
In the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum the major TCAST satellite DNA accounts for 35% of the genome and encompasses the pericentromeric regions of all chromosomes. Because of the presence of transcriptional regulatory elements and transcriptional activity in these sequences, TCAST satellite DNAs also have been proposed to be modulators of gene expression within euchromatin. Here, we analyze the distribution of TCAST homologous repeats in T. castaneum euchromatin and study their association with genes as well as their potential gene regulatory role. We identified 68 arrays composed of TCAST-like elements distributed on all chromosomes. Based on sequence characteristics the arrays were composed of two types of TCAST-like elements. The first type consists of TCAST satellite-like elements in the form of partial monomers or tandemly arranged monomers, up to tetramers, whereas the second type consists of TCAST-like elements embedded with a complex unit that resembles a DNA transposon. TCAST-like elements were also found in the 5′ untranslated region (UTR) of the CR1-3_TCa retrotransposon, and therefore retrotransposition may have contributed to their dispersion throughout the genome. No significant difference in the homogenization of dispersed TCAST-like elements was found either at the level of local arrays or chromosomes nor among different chromosomes. Of 68 TCAST-like elements, 29 were located within introns, with the remaining elements flanked by genes within a 262 to 404,270 nt range. TCAST-like elements are statistically overrepresented near genes with immunoglobulin-like domains attesting to their nonrandom distribution and a possible gene regulatory role.
A Multifunctional Microgripper Capable of Simultaneous Single Cell Manipulation and Associated Ion Sensing
Authors: Daunton Rachael , Gallant Andrew J. , Kataky Ritu , Wood David 
Published: July 2012

ABSTRACTThe successful modification of the tips of a cellular microgripper into ion selective electrodes capable of sensing calcium ions at concentrations as low as 8x10-5 M is described. The modification involves applying the process of adding the components of all solid state ion selective electrodes. Specifically, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) is added to a gold electrode protruding from the microgripper tip; this is then coated with a poly(vinyl chloride) PVC based calcium selective membrane. Excellent Nernstian response was observed from our devices, with calibration slopes of 29.5 ± 2.5 mV/dec.
Threshold voltage drift in phase change memories: scaling and modeling
Authors: Ciocchini N. , Cassinerio M. , Fugazza D. , Ielmini D. 
Published: July 2012

ABSTRACTThe phase-change-memory (PCM) relies on the ability of a chalcogenide material, usually Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST), to switch from the amorphous phase with a high electrical resistance (~MΩ) to a crystalline phase with a low electrical resistance (∼kΩ). The structural stability of the amorphous phase is critically affected by temperature-activated crystallization and resistance drift due to structural relaxation (SR) [1]. While amorphous chalcogenides are relatively stable with respect to crystallization, thanks to a high activation energy above 2 eV [2], the lower activation energy of SR can strongly affect the PCM electrical properties of the amorphous phase, including resistance, activation energy for conduction and, most importantly, the threshold voltage VT. The latter marks the boundary between read and programming operations in PCM, thus VT instability must be carefully predicted to minimize read disturbs within the array. To this purpose, understanding the switching mechanisms and modeling of VT is of utmost importance for PCM device development and scaling.
Video rate terahertz imaging using Si-technology based micro-bolometer array/camera
Authors: Hosako Iwao , Oda Naoki 
Published: July 2012

ABSTRACTTerahertz (THz) imaging technique has attracted much attention in recent years, because the technique can be applied to many application fields such as nondestructive analysis and imaging method through optically opaque materials. A THz real-time imaging equipment (Terahertz Camera) considered increasingly important in the future has been developed. We report a THz video rate imaging system consisting of a quantum-cascade laser (QCL) light source as a THz illuminator, and a Si-technology based un-cooled micro-bolometer focal-plane array (an infrared detector common in thermal cameras). We also describe two applications of our imaging system: stand-off imaging for search and rescue in a fire disaster, and label-free biomaterial detection.
Synthetic Helical Polymers and Diblock Copolymers: Building Blocks for Biocompatible/Biofunctional Helical Superstructures
Authors: Sannigrahi Biswajit , Mendenhall Juana , Khan Ishrat M 
Published: July 2012

ABSTRACTBottom-up design of materials via self-assembly with appropriate building blocks offers the possibility of developing innovative three-dimensional all synthetic materials with new functionalities. Helical optically active poly(3-methyl-4-vinylpyridine)/(R) and (S) mandelic acid and helical optically active poly(3-methyl-4-vinylpyridine) (P3M4VP)/ D- and L- amino acid complexes have been prepared. A diblock copolymer of helical poly[(3-methyl-4-vinylprydine)/mandelic acid complex]-block-poly(styrene) has been processed into smectic layer-like helical-bundle structures on silicon wafer. Additionally, optically active helical poly(2-methoxystyrene) (P2PMS) has been synthesized and the surfaces of the chiral helical P2MS have been shown to be effective as supports for mouse and human osteoblast cells. The cell attachment and growth data demonstrate that the chiral P2MS surfaces were better supports compared to achiral P2MS surfaces.
On the Unzipping Mechanisms of Carbon Nanotubes: Insights from Reactive Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: dos Santos Ricardo P. , Autreto Pedro A. , Perim Eric , Brunetto Gustavo , Galvao Douglas S. 
Published: July 2012

ABSTRACTUnzipping carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is considered one of the most promising approaches for the controlled and large-scale production of graphene nanoribbons (GNR). These structures are considered of great importance for the development of nanoelectronics because of its dimensions and intrinsic nonzero band gap value. Despite many years of investigations some details on the dynamics of the CNT fracture/unzipping processes remain unclear. In this work we have investigated some of these process through molecular dynamics simulations using reactive force fields (ReaxFF), as implemented in the Large-scale Atomic/Molecular Massively Parallel Simulator (LAMMPS) code. We considered multi-walled CNTs of different dimensions and chiralities and under induced mechanical stretching. Our preliminary results show that the unzipping mechanisms are highly dependent on CNT chirality. Well-defined and distinct fracture patterns were observed for the different chiralities. Armchair CNTs favor the creation of GNRs with well-defined armchair edges, while zigzag and chiral ones produce GNRs with less defined and defective edges.
MnO2 Decorated Three Dimensional Graphene Heterostructures for Supercapacitor Electrodes
Authors: Wang Wei , Guo Shirui , Ozkan Mihrimah , Ozkan Cengiz S. 
Published: July 2012

ABSTRACTSupercapacitors are promising candidates for alternative energy storage applications since they can store and deliver energy at relatively high rates. In this work, we integrated large area chemical vapor deposition (CVD) grown three dimensional graphene heterostructures with high capacitance metal oxides (MnO2) to fabricate highly conductive, large surface-area composite thin films. Uniform, large area 3D graphene heterostructures layers were produced by a one-step CVD on nickel foams. MnO2 nanowires were deposited on the as-obtained 3D graphene heterostructures film by a simple chemical bath depostion process. The oxide loading of the 3D graphene/MWNTs/MnO2 nanowires (GMM) composite films can be simply controlled by deposition time and nanowire solution concentration. The surface morphology was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) was performed to characterize the MnO2on the surface of the film. By introducing the fast surface redox reactions into the graphene heterostructures film via integrating pseudocapacitive material like MnO2, the capacitive ability of the system enhanced dramatically. Supercapacitor was fabricated based on the 3D graphene heterostructures /MnO2 hybrid film electrodes; the measurements of cyclic voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) are conducted to determine its performance for the electrodes of supercapacitors.
Few-wall carbon nanotubes covalently functionalized by ferrocene groups for bioelectrochemical devices.
Authors: Allali Naoual , Urbanova Veronika , Mamane Victor , Waldbock Jeremy , Etienne Mathieu , Mallet Martine , Devaux Xavier , Vigolo Brigitte , Fort Yves , Walcarius Alain , Noël Maxime , Soldatov Alexander V. , McRae Edward , Dossot Manuel 
Published: July 2012

ABSTRACTThe present work reports the covalent functionalization of few-wall CNTs (FWCNTs) by ferrocene derivatives to i) improve their dispersion efficiency in water and ii) to graft electroactive chemical groups on their side-walls in order to promote electron transfer to biomolecules. The functionalized CNTs (f-CNTs) are used to modify a glassy carbon electrode and this modified electrode is used for oxidizing the cofactor NADH (dihydronicotinamide adenine dinucleotide).
A Model of Chemical Mechanical Planarization to Predict Impact of Pad Conditioning on Process Performance
Authors: Basim G. Bahar , Kincal Serkan 
Published: July 2012

ABSTRACTThis study presents an effort to couple a wafer removal rate profile model based on the locally relevant Preston equation to the change in pad thickness profile which reflects to post polish profile of the wafers after Chemical Mechanical Planarization. The result is a dynamic predictor of how the wafer removal rate profile shifts as the pad ages. These predictions can be used to fine tune the conditioner operating characteristics without having to carry out high cost and time consuming experiments. The accuracy of the predictions is demonstrated by individual confirmation experiments in addition to the evaluation of the defectivity performance with the varied pad conditioning profiles.
Microcomputed Tomography Analysis of Mesiobuccal Orifices and Major Apical Foramen in First Maxillary Molars
Authors: Spagnuolo Gianrico , Ametrano Gianluca , D’Antò Vincenzo , Formisano Anna , Simeone Michele , Riccitiello Francesco , Amato Massimo , Rengo Sandro 
Published: August 2012

Objective:
Aim of the study was to determined by microcomputed tomography (µCT) the horizontal distance between the main (MB1) and the second mesiobuccal canal (MB2) orifices, the vertical distance between the MB1 and MB2 orifices planes, and the distance between the anatomic apex and major apical foramen (AF). Furthermore, we characterized the entire internal and external anatomy of the MB, distalbuccal (DB) and palatal (P) maxillary first molars roots.

Materials and Methods:
Twenty-two intact extracted first maxillary molars were scanned by X-ray computed transaxial µCT and then 2D and 3D images were processed and analyzed.

Results:
The results showed that 77.27% of the mesiobuccal (MB) roots presented a second MB canal, and 29.41% of the MB2 were independent from the MB1 canals. In 15 teeth, there were three root canal orifices on the chamber floor, and 10 of these teeth presented MB2 canals. The mean vertical distance between the MB1 and MB2 planes was 1.68 ± 0.83 mm. Seven teeth had four orifices. The mean horizontal interorificial distance between the MB1 and MB2 orifices was 1.21 ± 0.5 mm. Accessory canals were observed in 33.33% of the roots, loops in 6.06%, while isthmuses were found in 15 of the 22 MB roots. Of the total roots, 74.24% presented one foramen, while all of the roots showed a major apical foramen that was not coincident with the anatomic apex.

Conclusions:
Our µCT analysis provided interesting features on the horizontal and vertical distance between the MB1 and MB2 orifices and on the distance of AF and anatomic apex.

Clinical Relevance:
These results have an important clinical value because might support the endodontist in the recruitment, negotiation and obturation of maxillary first molar canal system.
Association of Reduced Renal Function with Hepatitis B Virus Infection and Elevated Alanine Aminotransferase
Authors: Cai Jianfang , Fan Xiaohong , Mou Lijun , Gao Bixia , Liu Xuejiao , Li Jinhong , Liu Lili , Wang Haiyun , Guo Zengyu , Liu Xiaoqing , Li Hang , Li Xuemei , Li Xuewang 
Published: August 2012

Summary

Background and objectives
Clinically, hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is observed to be associated with nephropathy. However, previous population-based studies failed to show an association between HBV infection and CKD. Therefore, this cross-sectional study was designed to further explore this association.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements
A representative sample of 6854 Chinese adults aged 30–75 years was tested for levels of serum hepatitis B surface antigen, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatinine, urinary albumin/creatinine ratio, and potential CKD risk factors.

Results
Neither HBV infection nor elevated ALT (ALT+; ≥ sex-specific 90th percentile of ALT levels of noninfected persons) was significantly associated with reduced estimated GFR (eGFR < 60 ml/min per 1.73 m2). Compared with noninfected persons, HBV-infected persons with ALT+, but not those with ALT− (P=0.26), were more likely to have reduced eGFR (odds ratio, 4.07; 95% confidence interval, 1.18–14.0; P=0.03). Further analysis with a general linear model revealed a significant difference in eGFR (mean ± SEM) between HBV-infected and noninfected persons (87.8±0.8 versus 90.2±0.4 ml/min per 1.73 m2; P=0.002). This difference was mainly derived from that between HBV-infected persons with ALT+ and noninfected persons, with an average difference in eGFR of −4.5 (95% confidence interval, −0.9 to −8.1; P=0.01). HBV infection and ALT+, alone or in combination, were not significantly associated with albuminuria or CKD.

Conclusions
HBV infection with elevated ALT, rather than HBV infection alone, was associated with reduced renal function.
Optimal timing of autologous cranioplasty after decompressive craniectomy in children
Authors: Piedra Mark P. , Thompson Eric M. , Selden Nathan R. , Ragel Brian T. , Guillaume Daniel J. 
Published: August 2012

Object
The object of this study was to determine if early cranioplasty after decompressive craniectomy for elevated intracranial pressure in children reduces complications.

Methods
Sixty-one consecutive cases involving pediatric patients who underwent autologous cranioplasty after decompressive craniectomy for raised intracranial pressure at a single academic children's hospital over 15 years were studied retrospectively.

Results
Sixty-one patients were divided into early (< 6 weeks; 28 patients) and late (≥ 6 weeks; 33 patients) cranioplasty cohorts. The cohorts were similar except for slightly lower age in the early (8.03 years) than the late (10.8 years) cranioplasty cohort (p < 0.05). Bone resorption after cranioplasty was significantly more common in the late (42%) than the early (14%) cranioplasty cohort (p < 0.05; OR 5.4). No other complication differed in incidence between the cohorts.

Conclusions
After decompressive craniectomy for raised intracranial pressure in children, early (< 6 weeks) cranioplasty reduces the occurrence of reoperation for bone resorption, without altering the incidence of other complications.
Effects of carotid artery stenosis treatment on blood pressure
Authors: Chung Joonho , Kim Byung Moon , Paik Ho Kyu , Hyun Dong-Keun , Park Hyeonseon 
Published: August 2012

Object
The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the long-term effects of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid artery stenting (CAS) on blood pressure (BP).

Methods
Between January 2003 and December 2009, 134 patients underwent 145 procedures for treatment of carotid artery stenosis. Patients with at least 1 year of clinical and radiographic follow-up after treatment were included in this study. A total of 102 patients met this criterion and were placed in the CEA group (n = 59) or the CAS group (n = 43) according to their treatment. The percentage change in BP decrement and the number of patients with a normotensive BP were evaluated and compared between the groups.

Results
There were no significant differences between the groups with regard to baseline characteristics. Compared with the pretreatment BP, the follow-up BPs were significantly decreased in both groups. At the 1-year followup, the percentage change in the BP decrement was greater in the CAS group (percentage change: systolic BP 9.6% and diastolic BP 12.8%) than in the CEA group (percentage change: systolic BP 5.9% [p = 0.035] and diastolic BP = 8.1% [p = 0.049]), and there were more patients with a normotensive BP in the CAS group (46.5%) than in the CEA group (22.0%, p = 0.012).

Conclusions
Both CEA and CAS have BP-lowering effects. Carotid artery stenting seems to have a better effect than CEA on BP at the 1-year follow-up.