bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ion irradiation of multi‐walled boron nitride nanotubes
Authors: Lehtinen Ossi , Nikitin Timur , Krasheninnikov Arkady V. , Sun Litao , Khriachtchev Leonid , Banhart Florian , Terao Takeshi , Golberg Dmitri , Keinonen Juhani 
Published: February 2010

AbstractMulti‐walled boron nitride nanotubes were irradiated with low and medium energy argon and helium ions at room and elevated temperatures. The irradiated samples were characterized by transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy, and a comparison to the response of carbon nanotubes to irradiation was made. A dose of 2 × 1015 ions/cm2 was found to give rise to complete amorphization for irradiation with 40 keV Ar ions,while a comparable dose (in terms of displacement per atom) of 1.2 × 1018 ions/cm2 for 350 keV He caused significantly less damage. Elevated temperatures considerably reduce the amount of damage indicating that efficient annealing of defects occurs in BN nanotubes already at 3000 C. Our results provide evidence that multi‐walled BN nanotubes have similar or even better stability under ion irradiation than their carbon counterparts. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Carbon nanotube based sensors and fluctuation enhanced sensing
Authors: Kukovecz Ákos , Molnár Dániel , Kordás Krisztián , Gingl Zoltán , Moilanen Hannu , Mingesz Róbert , Kónya Zoltán , Mäklin Jani , Halonen Niina , Tóth Géza , Haspel Henrik , Heszler Péter , Mohl Melinda , Sápi András , Roth Siegmar , Vajtai Robert , Ajayan Pulickel M. , Pouillon Yann , Rubio Angel , Kiricsi Imre 
Published: February 2010

AbstractDrop‐cast thin films of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes are used as gas sensors in a four‐probe measurement setup. The novelty of the approach is that the sensor information is extracted from the noise of the dc resistance data using Fluctuation Enhanced Sensing (FES). We investigate the effects of measurement duration, gate voltage and frequency window on the chemical selectivity of the MWCNT‐FES sensor. The selectivity of the device is superior to those of conventional gas sensors, and preliminary experiments indicate that it may also be possible to extract quantitative information from the noise. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Neotropics and natural ingredients for pharmaceuticals: why isn't South American biodiversity on the crest of the wave?
Authors: Desmarchelier Cristian 
Published: February 2010

AbstractDespite the advent of biotechnology and modern methods of combinatorial chemistry and rational drug design, nature still plays a surprisingly important role as a source of new pharmaceutical compounds. These are marketed either as herbal drugs or as single active ingredients. South American tropical ecosystems (or the Neotropics) encompass one‐third of the botanical biodiversity of the planet. For centuries, indigenous peoples have been using plants for healing purposes, and scientists are making considerable efforts in order to validate these uses from a pharmacological/phytochemical point of view. However, and despite the unique plant diversity in the region, very few natural pharmaceutical ingredients from this part of the world have reached the markets in industrialized countries. The present review addresses the importance of single active ingredients and herbal drugs from South American flora as natural ingredients for pharmaceuticals; it highlights the most relevant cases in terms of species of interest; and discusses the key entry barriers for these products in industrialized countries. It explores the reasons why, in spite of the region's competitive advantages, South American biodiversity has been a poor source of natural ingredients for the pharmaceutical industry. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ursolic acid and luteolin‐7‐glucoside improve lipid profiles and increase liver glycogen content through glycogen synthase kinase‐3
Authors: Azevedo Marisa F. , Camsari Çagri , Sá Carla M. , Lima Cristovao F. , Fernandes‐Ferreira Manuel , Pereira‐Wilson Cristina 
Published: February 2010

AbstractIn the present study, two phytochemicals – ursolic acid (UA) and luteolin‐7‐glucoside (L7G) – were assessed in vivo in healthy rats regarding effects on plasma glucose and lipid profile (total cholesterol, HDL and LDL), as well as liver glycogen content, in view of their importance in the aetiology of diabetes and associated complications. Both UA and L7G significantly decreased plasma glucose concentration. UA also significantly increased liver glycogen levels accompanied by phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase‐3 (GSK3). The increase in glycogen deposition induced by UA (mediated by GSK3) could have contributed to the lower plasma glucose levels observed. Both compounds significantly lowered total plasma cholesterol and low‐density lipoprotein levels, and, in addition, UA increased plasma high‐density lipoprotein levels. Our results show that UA particularly may be useful in preventable strategies for people at risk of developing diabetes and associated cardiovascular complications by improving plasma glucose levels and lipid profile, as well as by promoting liver glycogen deposition. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spectroscopic characterization of aminoacetonitrile, its ions and protonated aminoacetonitrile using quantum chemical methods
Authors: Naganathappa Mahadevappa , Chaudhari Ajay 
Published: February 2010

AbstractWe present theoretical vibrational and absorption spectra of aminoacetonitrile, its cation, anion, cyanoprotonated, and aminoprotonated aminoacetonitrile. We used second‐order Moller–Plesset perturbation method (MP2) with TZVP basis set to obtain ground state geometries and vibrational spectra. Time dependent density functional theory method was used to obtain absorption spectra. Shifts in vibrational modes for aminoacetonitrile upon ionization and protonation are determined. The C≡N stretching mode which is the most important mode in detection of nitriles in space is more intense in aminoacetonitrile ions and its two protonated form and is less IR active for neutral aminoacetonitrile. The nature of electronic transition for these molecules is identified. All the electronic transitions for neutral aminoacetonitrile and its cation are the σ → σ* electronic transitions, whereas its anion and protonated aminoacetonitrile display the σ → σ* as well as π → π* transitions. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
Influence of thermostats on the calculations of heat capacities from Born‐Oppenheimer molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Gamboa Gabriel U. , Vásquez‐Pérez José M. , Calaminici Patrizia , Köster Andreas M. 
Published: February 2010

AbstractThe temperature dependency of the vibrational molecular heat capacity of the copper dimer is calculated from classical Born‐Oppenheimer molecular dynamics (BOMD) simulations employing four different thermostats. The resulting heat capacity curves are compared with their the polyatomic ideal gas counterparts. It is shown that the Nosé‐Hoover chain thermostat yields realistic temperature profiles and reliable heat capacities. This result is also supported by the corresponding canonical phase space distribution. This work demonstrates that canonical BOMD simulations with the Nosé‐Hoover chain thermostat are well suited to obtain reliable thermodynamic properties for small finite systems. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
Linking a spatially explicit watershed model (SWAT) with an in‐stream fish habitat model (PHABSIM): A case study of setting minimum flows and levels in a low gradient, sub‐tropical river
Authors: Casper A. F. , Dixon B. , Earls J. , Gore J. A. 
Published: February 2010

AbstractAs changes in landuse and the demand for water accelerate, regulators and resource managers are increasingly asked to evaluate water allocation against the need for protection of in‐stream habitat. In the United States, only a small number of river basins have the long‐term hydrograph data needed to make these assessments. This paper presents an example of how to bridge the conceptual and physical divide between GIS‐based watershed modelling of basin‐discharge and in‐stream hydraulic habitat models. Specifically, we used a Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model for the Hillsborough River to produce data for use in a Physical HABitat SIMulation (PHABSIM) model of the same river. This coupling of models allowed us to develop long‐term discharge data in ungauged river systems based on watershed characteristics and precipitation records. However this approach is not without important limitations. Results confirm that accuracy of the SWAT‐predicted hydrograph declines significantly when either the DEM resolution becomes too coarse or if DEM data are resampled to a coarser or finer resolution. This is due to both changes in the size and shape of the river basin with the varying DEMs and subsequent shifts in the proportions of land use, soils and elevation. Results show the use of 30 m DEMs produced hydrographic patterns amenable for using in‐stream habitat protocols like PHABSIM model, especially where little or no hydrographic and land use information exists. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of grit‐blasting parameters on the surface roughness and adhesion strength of sprayed coating
Authors: Asl Sh. Khameneh , Sohi M. Heydarzadeh 
Published: February 2010

AbstractSurface preparation is very important in adhesive bonding of spray coatings to the surface of a work piece. The common practice is grit blasting of the surface before subjecting it to the spray coating process. In this study, grit blasting of an AISI 4130 steel (of different heat treatments) with Al2O3 particles was studied and the mean roughnesses (Ra), of the grit‐blasted surfaces were then measured. The results show that variations of working distance, air pressure and blasting time significantly affect the resultant surface roughness. The results also show that a 90° blasting angle gives slightly higher Ra but a significantly higher amount of grit residue, in comparison with the results obtained for a blasting angle of 45° . After grit blasting, the specimens were plasma spray coated with 80% ZrO220% Y2O3 powder. The adhesive strength of the coating to the substrate was then measured according to the ASTM C633 standard. The results show that for a certain base metal, the adhesive strength is directly related to the surface roughness and hardness of the base material. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reduction of thin oxide films on tungsten substrate with highly reactive cold hydrogen plasma
Authors: Vesel Alenka , Drenik Aleksander , Zaplotnik Rok , Mozetic Miran , Balat‐Pichelin Marianne 
Published: February 2010

AbstractResults on chemical removal of oxygen from thin tungsten oxide films with hydrogen plasma are presented. Tungsten foils were oxidized in a furnace at 400 °C for 1 h, so a compact oxide film with the thickness of about 160 nm was formed. The samples were then exposed to hydrogen plasma created in a microwave discharge at the power of 1000 W and a hydrogen pressure of 90 Pa. The plasma density was estimated to the order of 1016 m−3, whereas the density of neutral hydrogen atoms was 2.5 × 1021 m−3 measured by a fiber optics catalytic probe. Samples were exposed to hydrogen plasma for different time. The evolution of the reduction process was monitored by measuring the AES depth profiles on samples exposed to plasma for different time. The results showed that the oxide film was reduced in about 10 s of plasma treatment. The average removal rate was thus about 16 nm s−1. Such a high reduction rate cannot be explained by the interaction of hydrogen ions, because the ion flux onto the sample surface is orders of magnitude too low, but rather by the interaction of neutral H‐atoms with the oxide film. Taking into account the known reduction rate and H‐atom density, one can estimate the reaction probability to about 3 × 10−4. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lean Enablers for Systems Engineering
Authors: Oppenheim Bohdan W. , Murman Earll M. , Secor Deborah A. 
Published: February 2010

AbstractSystems Engineering (SE) is regarded as a sound practice but not always delivered effectively, as documented in recent NASA, GAO, and DoD studies. Lean Thinking is the holistic work system credited for the extraordinary rise of Toyota to the most profitable and the largest auto company in the world. Lean Thinking has been successfully applied in other work fields such as general manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, and service industries. The emerging field of Lean Systems Engineering (LSE) is the application of Lean principles, practices, and tools to SE and to the related aspects of enterprise management (EM) in order to enhance the delivery of value (which is defined as flawless delivery of product or mission with satisfaction of all stakeholders) while reducing waste. This paper contains four parts: (1) historical background of the new field of LSE and a review of the fundamental concepts of Lean Thinking; (2) the development process of a new product called “Lean Enablers for Systems Engineering”; (3) a list of the Enablers organized into six Lean principles; (4) summary and conclusions. The Lean Enablers for Systems Engineering is a comprehensive checklist of nonmandatory practices and recommendations formulated as “do's” and “don't's” of SE, and containing tacit knowledge (collective wisdom) on how to prepare for, plan, execute, and practice SE and EM using Lean Thinking. Each enabler has the potential to enhance program value and reduce waste. The Enablers are formulated as a web‐based addendum to the current SE Handbook published by the International Council for Systems Engineering (INCOSE), and do not repeat the practices made therein, which are regarded as sound. They should be an equally valuable addendum to other SE handbooks such as NASA, DoD, or company manuals. The enablers' development followed a classical process: Concept, Alpha, Beta, Prototype, and Version 1.0. This paper reports on Version 1.0 of the enablers, which are regarded as mature enough for dissemination, but which are intended to be a living online document to be continuously improved by interested practitioners as new knowledge and experience are acquired. The enablers were evaluated by surveys in the Beta and Prototype phases. The Prototype version has also been benchmarked with recent NASA and GAO studies. This project has been carried out by two core teams involving 14 volunteers from the LSE Working Group of INCOSE. The teams included representatives from industry, academia, and governments from United States, Israel, and the United Kingdom, with cooperation from the LSE Working Group membership at large. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng 14: 29–55, 2011
NuvaRing: a vaginal contraceptive
Authors: Kubba Ali , Lete Ignacio , Briggs Paula 
Published: February 2010

AbstractAlthough the combined oral contraceptive pill is by far the most widely prescribed contraceptive option, it does not suit all women and, being user‐dependent, tends to fail women who cannot stick to a daily routine. NuvaRing is a vaginal contraceptive, a hormone‐containing ring that has shown good efficacy and tolerability. Its alternative method of delivery may appeal to younger women, thus helping to reduce the high rate of unplanned pregnancy in the UK. In this expert panel discussion, three specialists discuss the new product and its place as a contraceptive choice. The panel included Dr Ignacio Lete, a gynaecologist from Spain where NuvaRing has been widely used since 2003. Copyright © 2010 Wiley Interface Ltd
Factors facilitating research: a survey of zoo and aquarium professionals
Authors: Anderson Ursula S. , Maple Terry L. , Bloomsmith Mollie A. 
Published: February 2010

AbstractThe purpose of this survey was to assess the background, training, and perceptions of professionals conducting and coordinating research at North American zoos and aquariums accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and to identify the factors they considered critical to successful scientific programs. We analyzed responses to a 57‐item questionnaire from 231 professionals at AZA zoos and aquariums. The majority of those surveyed conducted behavioral research, conducted research only in a captive setting, held curatorial positions, had their salaries supported by their institutions' operating budget, and considered themselves part of a successful scientific program. About 30% of those we surveyed possessed a doctoral research degree in comparison to 55% possessing lesser level degrees—19% with master's, 34% with bachelor's, and 2% with other degrees. Support from the chief executive officer and personnel dedicated to conducting scientific programs were judged as the two most important factors contributing to the successful scientific programs. The information provided in this report may be used to develop and improve both established and newly initiated scientific programs in zoos and aquariums. Zoo Biol 29:663–675, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of Perineal Operations with Abdominal Operations for Full‐Thickness Rectal Prolapse
Authors: Riansuwan Woramin , Hull Tracy L. , Bast Jane , Hammel Jeff P. , Church Jame M. 
Published: February 2010

AbstractBackgroundWe can divide surgery for rectal prolapse into two broad categories: abdominal and perineal. However, few studies compare the long‐term outcomes and quality of life among operations for full‐thickness rectal prolapse. The purpose of this study was to compare abdominal (AO) versus perineal (PO) procedures for the treatment of full‐thickness rectal prolapse regarding recurrence rate, incontinence, constipation, and quality of life.MethodsRecords of 177 operations from 1995 to 2001 were reviewed retrospectively. A telephone survey was attempted for all. Seventy‐five (42%) responded to the Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score (CCIS), KESS Constipation Score (KESS‐CS), and SF‐36 Quality of Life Score. Appropriate statistical analysis was performed.ResultsFor the 122 AO and 55 PO, there were no deaths. Mean follow‐up was similar (PO 3.1 vs. AO 3.9 years; P = 0.306). As expected the PO patients were older (mean 69 vs. 55 years) and had higher ASA scores. Those undergoing PO had less procedural blood loss, operative time, hospital stay, and dietary restriction. The PO group also scored worse on the physical component of SF‐36 (PO 33 vs. AO 39.6; P = 0.034). However, the rate of recurrent prolapse was significantly higher for the PO (PO 26.5% vs. AO 5.2%; P < 0.001). Complications, CCIS, KESS‐CS, and SF‐36 mental component were similar in both groups.ConclusionsIn full‐thickness rectal prolapse, elderly, sick patients are selected for a perineal operation. The morbidity, functional outcomes, and quality of life are acceptable. However, the high recurrence rates make the perineal operation a second‐best choice for younger, healthy patients.
PTU‐induced hypothyroidism modulates antioxidant defence status in the developing cerebellum
Authors: Bhanja S. , Chainy G.B.N. 
Published: February 2010

AbstractThe objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of 6‐n‐propylthiouracil (PTU)‐induced hypothyroidism on oxidative stress parameters, expression of antioxidant defence enzymes, cell proliferation and apoptosis in the developing cerebellum. PTU challenged neonates showed significant decrease in serum T3 and T4 levels and marked increase in TSH levels. Significantly elevated levels of cerebellar H2O2 and lipid peroxidation were observed in 7 days old hypothyroid rats, along with increased activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase and decline in catalase activity. In 30 days old hypothyroid rats, a significant decline in cerebellar lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity and expression was observed along with an up‐regulation in catalase activity and expression. Expression of antioxidant enzymes was studied by Western blot and semi‐quantitative rt‐PCR. A distinct increase in cell proliferation as indicated by proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunoreactivity was observed in the internal granular layer of cerebellum of 7 days old hypothyroid rats and significant drop in PCNA positive cells in the cerebellar molecular layer and internal granular layer of 30 days old PTU treated rats as compared to controls. In situ end labeling by TUNEL assay showed increased apoptosis in cerebellum of hypothyroid rats in comparison to controls. These results suggest that the antioxidant defence system of the developing cerebellum is sensitive to thyroid hormone deficiency and consequent alterations in oxidative stress status may play a role in regulation of cell proliferation of the cerebellum during neonatal brain development.
Antibiotic Prescribing for Acute Respiratory Infection and Subsequent Outpatient and Hospital Utilization in Veterans With Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder
Authors: Evans Charlesnika T. , Li Keran , Burns Stephen P. , Smith Bridget , Lee Todd A. , Weaver Frances M. 
Published: February 2010

ObjectiveTo assess the association between antibiotic prescribing for acute respiratory infection (ARI) and subsequent health‐care utilization in veterans with spinal cord injury and disorder (SCI/D).DesignRetrospective cohort of veterans with SCI/D.SettingVeterans Affairs medical facilities that provide outpatient care.PatientsVeterans with SCI/D with a diagnosis of acute bronchitis or upper respiratory infection during an outpatient visit between fiscal year 2006 and 2007 that did not result in same‐day hospitalization.Independent VariableReceipt of a new antibiotic prescription occurring within 3 days before or after an ARI visit.Main Outcome MeasureSubsequent outpatient visit or hospitalization within 30 days of the index ARI visit.ResultsA total of 1277 patients were identified with ARI; 53.2% were prescribed an antibiotic. An outpatient clinic visit within 30 days of the index ARI visit occurred in 47.0% of patients. Receipt of an antibiotic prescription was not associated with a subsequent outpatient visit. However, in those with certain chronic respiratory conditions (cough, shortness of breath, bronchitis not specified as acute or chronic, and allergic rhinitis), those prescribed antibiotics were less likely to return for an outpatient visit than those not prescribed antibiotics (adjusted relative risk =0.77, 95% confidence interval = 0.61‐0.97); no association was observed in those patients without these conditions. A total of 7.9% of patients were hospitalized within 30 days and did not differ by prescribing group. The 30‐day mortality rate was 0.6%.ConclusionsCertain chronic respiratory conditions in veterans with SCI/D may be risk factors for increased health‐care utilization and potentially poor outcomes if a patient is not treated with antibiotics for ARI. However, in those without these conditions, those with ARI who were prescribed antibiotics have similar utilization to those not prescribed antibiotics. These data suggest that in the absence of chronic respiratory conditions, antibiotic use for ARI can be curbed in this population that is at high risk for respiratory complications.
Stratifications and Mackey Functors II: Globally Defined Mackey Functors
Authors: Webb Peter 
Published: February 2010

AbstractWe describe structural properties of globally defined Mackey functors related to the stratification theory of algebras. We show that over a field of characteristic zero they form a highest weight category and we also determine precisely when this category is semisimple. This approach is used to show that the Cartan matrix is often symmetric and non-singular, and we are able to compute finite parts of it in some instances. We also develop a theory of vertices of globally defined Mackey functors in the spirit of group representation theory, as well as giving information about extensions between simple functors.