Single Layer (single + layer)

Distribution by Scientific Domains


Selected Abstracts


Spectroscopic ellipsometry study of thin diffusion barriers of TaN and Ta for Cu interconnects in integrated circuits

PHYSICA STATUS SOLIDI (A) APPLICATIONS AND MATERIALS SCIENCE, Issue 4 2008
S. Rudra
Abstract The objective of this work is to study the optical and electrical properties of tantalum nitride and tantalum barrier thin films used against copper diffusion in Si in integrated circuits using spectroscopic ellipsometry in the VUV and UV,visible range. Single layers of tantalum nitride and bilayer films of Ta/TaN were produced by reactive magnetron sputtering on Si(100) substrates covered with a native oxide layer. Ellipsometric measurements were performed in the energy range from 0.73,8.7 eV and the dielectric functions were simulated using Drude,Lorentz model and effective medium approximation (EMA) in order to obtain information regarding film thickness, film composition, free carrier plasma energy, mean relaxation time and electrical resistivity. The film thickness clearly affects the electrical resistivity and the electron mean free path. It was observed that for films of Ta on TaN even after maintaining the deposition condition suitable for the ,-phase of Ta, it turned out to be a mixture of ,- and ,-phases with higher contribution of the ,-phase. It is shown that even a very small intermixture of two different phases of Ta can be determined accurately using ellipsometry. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source]


Dynamics of Dislocations in a 2D Plasma Crystal

CONTRIBUTIONS TO PLASMA PHYSICS, Issue 4-5 2009
V. Nosenko
Abstract Recent experimental results on the dislocation dynamics in a two-dimensional plasma crystal are reviewed. A single layer of micron-size microspheres was suspended in the sheath of a capacitively coupled rf discharge. The particles self-organized in a triangular lattice. Edge dislocations were created in pairs in this plasma crystal when the internal shear stress built up above a threshold, due to the crystal's slow differential rotation. Basic stages of dislocation nucleation were identified and studied, from gradual pile-up of shear strain in the crystal to eventual escape of free dislocations. After nucleation, dislocations moved supersonically with respect to the shear waves and generated shear-wave Mach cones (© 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source]


Microscopic structure of the sperm storage tubules in the polygynandrous alpine accentor, Prunella collaris (Aves)

ACTA ZOOLOGICA, Issue 4 2001
Akira Chiba
Abstract We describe the microscopic structure of the sperm storage tubules (SSTs) of the polygynandrous alpine accentor, Prunella collaris. The SSTs were found at the utero-vaginal junction of the oviduct and were composed of a single layer of columnar epithelium. The cells of the tubule proper were non-ciliated and had a round or oval nucleus in their basal portion. Their cytoplasm was finely or coarsely vacuolated due to lipid inclusions. Under the electron microscope, the epithelial cells exhibited a number of mitochondria, Golgi bodies, occasional lysosome-like dense bodies, granular endoplasmic reticula, junctional complex, and tonofilaments. The apical margin of the cells was fringed with numerous microvilli. The epithelial lining of the SSTs was devoid of mucous cells, but showed occasional infiltration of lymphoid cells. No contractile elements were found in association with the SSTs, but a close apposition of unmyelinated nerve fibres to the basal part of the SST cells was recognized. Intraluminal sperm were arranged in bundles, and their heads were orientated towards the distal portion of the SSTs. Evidence for engulfment of sperm by the SST cells was obtained for the first time. A sign of atrophy or regression of the SSTs was found in one specimen. [source]


Linking flux network measurements to continental scale simulations: ecosystem carbon dioxide exchange capacity under non-water-stressed conditions

GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY, Issue 4 2007
KATHERINE E. OWEN
Abstract This paper examines long-term eddy covariance data from 18 European and 17 North American and Asian forest, wetland, tundra, grassland, and cropland sites under non-water-stressed conditions with an empirical rectangular hyperbolic light response model and a single layer two light-class carboxylase-based model. Relationships according to ecosystem functional type are demonstrated between empirical and physiological parameters, suggesting linkages between easily estimated parameters and those with greater potential for process interpretation. Relatively sparse documentation of leaf area index dynamics at flux tower sites is found to be a major difficulty in model inversion and flux interpretation. Therefore, a simplification of the physiological model is carried out for a subset of European network sites with extensive ancillary data. The results from these selected sites are used to derive a new parameter and means for comparing empirical and physiologically based methods across all sites, regardless of ancillary data. The results from the European analysis are then compared with results from the other Northern Hemisphere sites and similar relationships for the simplified process-based parameter were found to hold for European, North American, and Asian temperate and boreal climate zones. This parameter is useful for bridging between flux network observations and continental scale spatial simulations of vegetation/atmosphere carbon dioxide exchange. [source]


Bacteriorhodopsin-Monolayer-Based Planar Metal,Insulator,Metal Junctions via Biomimetic Vesicle Fusion: Preparation, Characterization, and Bio-optoelectronic Characteristics,

ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 8 2007
D. Jin
Abstract A reliable and reproducible method for preparing bacteriorhodopsin (bR)-containing metal,biomolecule,monolayer-metal planar junctions via vesicle fusion tactics and soft deposition of Au top electrodes is reported. Optimum monolayer and junction preparations, including contact effects, are discussed. The electron-transport characteristics of bR-containing membranes are studied systematically by incorporating native bR or artificial bR pigments derived from synthetic retinal analogues, into single solid-supported lipid bilayers. Current,voltage (I,V) measurements at ambient conditions show that a single layer of such bR-containing artificial lipid bilayers pass current in solid electrode/bilayer/solid electrode structures. The current is passed only if retinal or its analogue is present in the protein. Furthermore, the preparations show photoconductivity as long as the retinal can isomerize following light absorption. Optical characterization suggests that the junction photocurrents might be associated with a photochemically induced M-like intermediate of bR. I,V measurements along with theoretical estimates reveal that electron transfer through the protein is over four orders of magnitude more efficient than what would be estimated for direct tunneling through 5,nm of water-free peptides. Our results furthermore suggest that the light-driven proton-pumping activity of the sandwiched solid-state bR monolayer contributes negligibly to the steady-state light currents that are observed, and that the orientation of bR does not significantly affect the observed I,V characteristics. [source]


Campylobacter and IFN, interact to cause a rapid loss of epithelial barrier integrity

INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASES, Issue 3 2008
Louisa E.N. Rees PhD
Abstract Background: The intestinal epithelium is a single layer of polarized cells and is the primary barrier separating foreign antigen and underlying lymphoid tissue. IFN, alters epithelial barrier function during inflammation by disrupting tight cell junctions and facilitating the paracellular transport of luminal antigens. The aim of this work was to determine whether Campylobacter infection of cells exposed to IFN, would lead to greater disruption of cell monolayers and hence increased bacterial translocation. Methods: Monolayers were polarized on Transwell polycarbonate membranes for 14 days and then cultured in the presence or absence of 100 U/mL IFN,. Campylobacter was added to the apical side of the monolayer at an MOI of 30. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) was recorded and bacteria in the basal well counted every 2 hours. Cells were stained for occludin, actin, and nuclear DNA, and cell viability determined by measurement of apoptosis. Results: In the presence of IFN,, TEER dropped significantly after 18 hours, indicating a reduction in barrier function. A further significant decrease was seen in the presence of both IFN, and Campylobacter, indicating a synergistic effect, and cellular morphology and viability were affected. Bacterial translocation across the monolayer was also significantly greater in the presence of IFN,. Conclusions: These combined effects indicate that Campylobacter infection concomitant with intestinal inflammation would result in a rapid and dramatic loss of epithelial barrier integrity, which may be a key event in the pathogenesis of Campylobacter -mediated colitis and the development of bloody diarrhea. (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2007) [source]


Non-hydrostatic 3D free surface layer-structured finite volume model for short wave propagation

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR NUMERICAL METHODS IN FLUIDS, Issue 4 2009
L. Cea
Abstract In this paper a layer-structured finite volume model for non-hydrostatic 3D environmental free surface flow is presented and applied to several test cases, which involve the computation of gravity waves. The 3D unsteady momentum and mass conservation equations are solved in a collocated grid made of polyhedrons, which are built from a 2D horizontal unstructured mesh, by just adding several horizontal layers. The mesh built in such a way is unstructured in the horizontal plane, but structured in the vertical direction. This procedure simplifies the mesh generation and at the same time it produces a well-oriented mesh for stratified flows, which are common in environmental problems. The model reduces to a 2D depth-averaged shallow water model when one single layer is defined in the mesh. Pressure,velocity coupling is achieved by the Semi-Implicit Method for Pressure-Linked Equations algorithm, using Rhie,Chow interpolation to stabilize the pressure field. An attractive property of the model proposed is the ability to compute the propagation of short waves with a rather coarse vertical discretization. Several test cases are solved in order to show the capabilities and numerical stability of the model, including a rectangular free oscillating basin, a radially symmetric wave, short wave propagation over a 1D bar, solitary wave runup on a vertical wall, and short wave refraction over a 2D shoal. In all the cases the numerical results are compared either with analytical or with experimental data. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


Structure of the human tibialis anterior tendon

JOURNAL OF ANATOMY, Issue 4 2000
WOLF PETERSEN
The structure and vascular pattern of the human tibialis anterior tendon was investigated using injection techniques, light and transmission electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry. From the well vascularised peritenon, blood vessels penetrate the tendon tissue and anastomose with a longitudinally oriented intratendinous network. The distribution of blood vessels within the tibialis anterior tendon was not homogenous. The posterior part of the tendon had a complete vascular network that extends from the musculotendinous junction to the insertion at the first metatarsal and medial cuneiform bones. In the anterior half, the tissue was avascular in a zone with a length of 45,67 mm. This zone was covered by a single layer (,30 ,m) of oval shaped cells. Transmission electron microscopy showed that these cells have the characteristics of chondroid cells. This region was stained by Alcian blue at pH 1 which indicates a high concentration of acid glycosaminoglycans and immunohistochemical staining for chondroitin-4-sulphate, chondroitin-6-sulphate and aggrecan was positive. However, immunostaining for the typical cartilage specific type II collagen within this zone was negative. The location of the avascular zone corresponds to the region where the tibialis anterior tendon wraps around the superior and inferior retinacula which serve as fibrous pulleys. This is the region where most spontaneous ruptures of the tibialis anterior tendon occur. The presence of fibrocartilage within gliding tendons is a functional adaptation to compressive and shearing forces. In contrast to reports from the literature about the structure of gliding tendons wrapping around a bony pulley, the gliding zone of the tibialis anterior tendon has only a narrow layer of chondroid cells and proof of type II collagen is lacking. [source]


Cancellous Bone Remodeling Occurs in Specialized Compartments Lined by Cells Expressing Osteoblastic Markers

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 9 2001
Ellen M. Hauge
Abstract We describe a sinus, referred to as a bone remodeling compartment (BRC), which is intimately associated with cancellous bone remodeling. The compartment is lined on its marrow side by flattened cells and on its osseous side by the remodeling bone surface, resembling a roof of flattened cells covering the bone surface. The flat marrow lining cells are in continuity with the bone lining cells at the margins of the BRC. We examined a large number of diagnostic bone biopsy specimens received during recent years in the department. Furthermore, 10 patients (8 women and 2 men, median age 56 [40,69] years) with the high turnover disease of primary hyperparathyroidism who were treated with parathyroidectomy and followed for 3 years were included in the histomorphometric study. Bone samples for the immuno-enzyme staining were obtained from an amputated extremity of child. The total cancellous bone surface covered by BRC decreases by 50% (p < 0.05) following normalization of turnover and is paralleled by a similar 50% decrease in remodeling surface (p < 0.05). The entire eroded surface and two-thirds of the osteoid surface are covered by a BRC. BRC-covered uncompleted walls are 30% (p < 0.05) thinner than those without a BRC. This indicates that the BRC is invariably associated with the early phases of bone remodeling, that is, bone resorption, whereas it closes during the late part of bone formation. Immuno-enzyme staining shows that the flat marrow lining cells are positive for alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and osteonectin, suggesting that they are bone cells. The first step in cancellous bone remodeling is thought to be the lining cells digesting the unmineralized matrix membrane followed by their disappearance and the arrival of the bone multicellular unit (BMU). We suggest that the lining cell barrier persists during bone remodeling; that the old lining cells become the marrow lining cells, allowing bone resorption and bone formation to proceed under a common roof of lining cells; that, at the end of bone formation, new bone lining cells derived from the flattened osteoblasts replace the marrow lining cells thereby closing the BRC; and that the two layers of lining cells eventually becomes a single layer. The integrity of the osteocyte-lining cell system is reestablished by the new generation of lining cells. The BRC most likely serves multiple purposes, including efficient exchange of matrix constituents and minerals, routing, monitoring, or modulating bone cell recruitment, and possibly the anatomical basis for the coupling of bone remodeling. [source]


Combining Antimicrobial and Steam Treatments in a Vacuum-packaging System to Control Listeria monocytogenes on Ready-to-eat Franks

JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 2 2005
Rong Y. Murphy
ABSTRACT: This study was to evaluate the effectiveness of steam or steam in combination with an antimicrobial agent to control Listeria monocytogenes on ready-to-eat (RTE) franks. The franks were surface-inoculated to contain 6 or 3 log10(colony-forming units [CFU])/cm2 of L. monocytogenes and treated with steam or steam in combination with an antimicrobial agent, immediately followed by vacuum-sealing the top films of frank packages (6 franks per package in a single layer). Three log (CFU) /cm2 of reductions were achieved at the both inoculation levels for L. monocytogenes on franks. At an inoculation level of 3 logs, no outgrowth of L. monocytogenes was obtained on the treated franks after storing at 4.4°C or 16°C for a combined 47 d. This study provided an alternative approach for controlling L. monocytogenes in packaged franks. [source]


Fabrication of Photonic/Microfluidic Integrated Devices Using an Epoxy Photoresist

MACROMOLECULAR MATERIALS & ENGINEERING, Issue 6 2010
Thomas Kowpak
Abstract Using a single layer of SU-8 photoresist to fabricate optical waveguide cores and microfluidic channels on Pyrex glass is an ideal way to achieve photonic/microfluidic integration on a single chip. To address the problem of poor bonding, a thin nanoscale intermediate polymer layer was applied to reduce the stress generated from the material processing while maintaining strong adhesion between the patterning polymer layer and Pyrex. It was found that a 186,600,nm thick intermediate layer of a specialty epoxy photoresist effectively served the purpose without deteriorating the optical performance of the involved waveguides. Quality photonic/microfluidic integrated devices with satisfied optical performance were fabricated. [source]


Novel repair method for technical enamels based on sol,gel and sol-dispersion coatings,

MATERIALS AND CORROSION/WERKSTOFFE UND KORROSION, Issue 2 2008
S. Benfer
The aim of the work presented here is the development of a novel repair method for technical enamels by using chemical nanotechnology. Good adhesion of coatings requires good wettability of the substrate by the repair solution. This was achieved by different pre-treatments of the steel substrates. Low sintering temperatures of the coatings can be ensured by the use of nanoparticle-based systems. Based on liquid metal alkoxides, a colloidal alumina sol and metal salts homogeneous sols with up to seven enamel compounds were prepared. The sols were brush coated onto plain and partly enamelled steel substrates and sintered in a furnace, by inductive heating or an IR emitter. Thin (single layer,,,1µm) crack-free layers were obtained on nearly all substrates independent of the sintering conditions investigated. The local sintering methods (IR emitter, inductive heating) allow to produce multiple coating systems in short times. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) provides evidence of the protective effect of these layers compared to the bare substrate, but as a result of their chemical composition the layers are not stable in the electrolytic environment for longer times. The thickness of such multiple coatings (20 layers, ,,8 µm) is still small compared to that of a technical enamel. Therefore, sol dispersion systems containing powder particles and sol components are applied on top of the sol,gel layers to increase the thickness of the sintered layers. [source]


In-line fiber-optical polarizer with high-extinction ratios and low-insertion loss

MICROWAVE AND OPTICAL TECHNOLOGY LETTERS, Issue 7 2009
Xinyue Wang
Abstract This letter demonstrated a novel strategy to optimize the extinction ratio and the insertion loss of side-polished fiber-optical polarizers. The polarizer has a portion of the cladding polished away and replaced with only a single layer of thin aluminium film. Extinction ratios up to over 22.6 dB/cm and the insertion loss down to 1,2 dB/cm have been realized. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 1763,1765, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24418 [source]


Experimental superficial candidiasis on tissue models

MYCOSES, Issue 4 2010
J. A. M. S. Jayatilake
Summary Candida species are common pathogens causing superficial mycoses primarily affecting the mucosa and the skin in humans. Crucial steps during pathogenesis of superficial candidiasis comprise fungal adhesion, colonisation and subsequent penetration of the respective tissues. Exploring these pathological events and perhaps fungal and tissue responses towards drug treatment is imperative in the management of this infection. Unfortunately, pathological biopsies of superficial candidiasis do not exhibit the early changes in the host,pathogen interaction as the tissues are already invaded by the fungi. In vivo experimental assessments of pathological processes of superficial candidiasis are also limited because of the difficulties in providing reproducible and comparable conditions in the host environment. Conversely, in vitro models have helped studying fungal,host interactions under more defined and controlled conditions. Some common in vitro models used to simulate superficial candidiasis are chick chorioallantoic membrane, mucosal explants and single layer or multiple layer cell cultures. Interestingly, these experimental approaches share advantages as well as disadvantages when compared with in vivo conditions. Hence, this review intends to discuss about the experimental superficial candidiasis produced in various tissue models and their advantages as well as disadvantages with a particular reference to further improvement of validity and reliability of such experiments. [source]


Oncocytic papillary renal cell carcinoma with inverted nuclear pattern: Distinct subtype with an indolent clinical course

PATHOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, Issue 3 2009
Bong-Hee Park
Reported herein are seven cases of a histologically distinct oncocytic papillary renal cell carcinoma (OPRCC) with an inverted nuclear pattern. To define its prognostic significance, the clinicopathological features of OPRCC were compared to those of types 1 and 2 PRCC. The median age of the seven patients was 67 years. Grossly, tumors were well-circumscribed and small (1.2 cm ± 0.4 cm). Microscopically, the OPRCC were composed of well-developed thin papillae, lined with a single layer of cuboidal-to-columnar oncocytic cells. The tumor cells had round-to-oval nuclei and eosinophilic granular cytoplasm, which was strongly positive for anti-mitochondrial immunostaining. The nuclei were characteristically polarized toward the surface of the papillae and contained mostly small nucleoli. The tumors had high expression of ,-methylacyl-coenzyme A racemase, CD15, CD117, cytokeratin (CK) 7, E-cadherin, epithelial membrane antigen, MOC 31, mucin-1, vascular endothelial growth factor and vimentin, low expression of CD10 and Ki-67, and no expression of CK20. Genetically, gain of chromosomes 3p, 11q, and 17q, and loss of chromosome 4q was observed. All seven patients were alive with no recurrence or metastasis at a mean follow-up time of 37.1 ± 23.7 months. In conclusion, OPRCC show unique pathological features with indolent clinical behavior and are more similar clinicopathologically to type 1 than to type 2 PRCC. [source]


Ciliated foregut cyst of the gallbladder: A case report and review of the literature

PATHOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, Issue 5 2000
Eun Sook Nam
A case is presented of a ciliated cyst of the gallbladder in a 36-year-old Korean woman which was incidentally found on ultrasonographic study. A cystic mass measuring 1.5 × 1 × 1 cm was found in the fundus of the gallbladder. The cyst was unilocular and intramural without communication to the lumen. Microscopically, the cyst wall was lined by a single layer of pseudostratified, ciliated, columnar epithelium and goblet cells with underlying smooth muscle layers. This was considered to be the cyst arising from the embryonic foregut and showing differentiation toward respiratory structures. The term ,ciliated foregut cyst of the gallbladder' is suggested here. [source]


Development and characterization of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) based on ruthenium complex single layer for transparent displays

PHYSICA STATUS SOLIDI (A) APPLICATIONS AND MATERIALS SCIENCE, Issue 8 2008
G. Santos
Abstract In this work, two ruthenium complexes, [Ru(bpy)3](PF6)2 and [Ru(ph2phen)3](PF6)2 in poly(methylmethacrylate) matrix were employed to build single-layer light-emitting electrochemical cells by spin coating on indium tin oxide substrate. In both cases the electroluminescence spectra exhibit a relatively broad band with maxima near to 625 nm and CIE (x, y) color coordinates of (0.64, 0.36), which are comparable with the photoluminescence data in the same medium. The best result was obtained with the [Ru(bpy)3](PF6)2 device where the optical output power approaches 10 µW at the band maximum with a wall-plug efficiency higher than 0.03%. The lowest driving voltage is about 4 V for an electrical current of 20 mA. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source]


PIII nitriding of fcc-alloys containing Ni and Cr

PHYSICA STATUS SOLIDI (A) APPLICATIONS AND MATERIALS SCIENCE, Issue 4 2008
Johanna Lutz
Abstract Face-centred cubic (fcc) alloys such as austenitic stainless steel, Ni base alloys and Co base alloys are important materials with a high corrosion resistance. Nitrogen insertion by PIII into all these alloys at moderate temperatures leads to the formation of an expanded austenite structure. A similar activation energy for the thermally assisted diffusion of about 0.75 eV was found for steel and CoCr alloys with CrN precipitates beyond 400 °C in both systems. However, a double layer structure was observed for CoCr, similar to Ni alloys, in contrast to a single layer for austenitic steel. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source]


Relaxor-based thin film memories and the depolarizing field problem

PHYSICA STATUS SOLIDI (A) APPLICATIONS AND MATERIALS SCIENCE, Issue 6 2007
Manuel I. Marqués
Abstract A simple model for a thin film memory based on a first neighbor interacting model is studied in detail. We have found that the minimum possible value for the thickness (D) as a function of the lateral size of the memory (L), the screening of the charges at the substrate (S) and the strength of the ferroelectric interaction (J), in order to obtain spontaneous polarization is D = SL /2J. We propose a new mechanism to obtain miniaturization of thin film memories to a single layer based on the use of relaxor ferroelectrics instead of regular ferroelectrics. Under the hypothesis of an internal organization of the random fields inside the nanofilm we show analytically how it should be possible to miniaturize the memory to a width as small as D = 1 for any value of L, J and S. (© 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source]


Optical properties and modal gain of InGaN quantum dot stacks

PHYSICA STATUS SOLIDI (C) - CURRENT TOPICS IN SOLID STATE PHYSICS, Issue S2 2009
Joachim Kalden
Abstract We present investigations of the optical properties of stacked InGaN quantum dot layers and demonstrate their advantage over single quantum dot layer structures. Measurements were performed on structures containing a single layer with quantum dots or threefold stacked quantum dot layers, respectively. A superlinear increase of the quantum dot related photoluminescence is detected with increasing number of quantum dot layers while other relevant GaN related spectral features are much less intensive when compared to the photoluminescence of a single quantum dot layer. The quantum dot character of the active material is verified by microphotoluminescence experiments at different temperatures. For the possible integration within optical devices in the future the threshold power density was investigated as well as the modal gain by using the variable stripe length method. As the threshold is 670 kW/cm2 at 13 K, the modal gain maximum is at 50 cm,1. In contrast to these limited total values, the modal gain per quantum dot is as high as 10,9cm,1, being comparable to the IIVI and III-As compounds. These results are a promising first step towards bright low threshold InGaN quantum dot based light emitting devices in the near future (© 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source]


Control of transpiration in an irrigated Eucalyptus globulus Labill. plantation

PLANT CELL & ENVIRONMENT, Issue 2 2000
D. A. White
ABSTRACT Stomatal conductance and transpiration were measured concurrently in an irrigated Eucalyptus globulus Labill. plantation. Canopy stomatal conductance, canopy boundary layer conductance and the dimensionless decoupling coefficient (,) were calculated (a) summing the conductance of three canopy layers (gc) and (b) weighting the contribution of foliage according to the amount of radiation received (gc,). Canopy transpiration was then calculated from gc and gc, for , = 1 (Eeq), , = 0 (Eimp) and by weighting Eeq and Eimp using , (E,). Eeq, Eimp and E, were compared to transpiration estimated from measurements of heat pulse velocity. The mean value of , was 0·63. Transpiration calculated using gc and assuming perfect coupling (12·5 ± 0·9 mmol m,2 s,1) significantly overestimated measured values (8·7 ± 0·8 mmol m,2 s,1). Good estimates of canopy transpiration were obtained either (a) calculating E, separately for the individual canopy layers or (b) treating the canopy as a single layer and using gc, in a calculation of Eimp (, = 0). The latter approach only required measurement of stomatal conductance at a single canopy position but would be unsuitable for use in combined models of canopy transpiration and assimilation. It should however, be suitable for estimating transpiration in forests regardless of the degree of coupling. [source]


A three-dimensional analysis of coextrusion in a single manifold flat die

POLYMER ENGINEERING & SCIENCE, Issue 9 2000
W. A. Gifford
The coextrusion of two polymers through a single manifold flat die is examined. The three components of velocity and the pressure are determined in each layer along with the interface between the layers. It is shown that even when the viscosity ratio is one (i.e., single layer), flat "layers" entering the die will not remain flat but will be distorted by the die. For coextrusion of two polymers, the distortion of the interface profile at the exit of the die and thus the uniformity of the layers depends upon the viscosity and flow rate ratios of the two polymers as well as the geometry of the die. [source]


Smoke, Mulch, and Seed Broadcasting Effects on Woodland Restoration in Western Australia

RESTORATION ECOLOGY, Issue 2 2002
Deanna P. Rokich
Abstract Smoke, canopy-derived mulch, and broadcast seeds were used to maximize the establishment of Banksia woodland species in sand quarries in Western Australia. Smoke, particularly aerosol smoke, had a positive effect on total seedling recruitment. Pre-mined (woodland) sites showed a 42-fold increase in total germinants and a 3-fold increase in the number of species with aerosol smoke application. Post-mined (restored) sites showed only a 3.6-fold increase in total germinants and a 1.4-fold increase in the number of species. Two water-based smoke chemicals, DC10 (pH 4.5) and SC63 (pH 2.5), increased seedling recruitment at both sites but were not as effective in stimulating recruitment as aerosol smoke. Neither of the chemicals were effective in significantly increasing species richness. Application of aerosol smoke directly to seeds as a pretreatment before broadcasting had no effect on seedling recruitment. Broadcasting of seeds onto restoration sites significantly increased seedling abundance and richness. Application of a single layer of mulch from the canopy vegetation after seed broadcasting gave optimum seedling recruitment. Two layers of mulch significantly reduced recruitment, as did applying mulch before seed broadcasting. For broad-scale restoration, the application of smoke on newly restored sites would be more effectively achieved using smoke water sprayed over the soil surface. Species that do not recruit from replaced topsoil could be effectively recovered from broadcast seed rather than from mulch. [source]


Fine Structure of the Retinal Pigment Epithelium, Bruch's Membrane and Choriocapillaris in the Horse

ANATOMIA, HISTOLOGIA, EMBRYOLOGIA, Issue 3 2000
H. Altunay
Summary The fine structure of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), Bruch's membrane and choriocapillaris was investigated by light and transmission electron microscopy in both the tapetal and non-tapetal fundus of the horse eye. In all locations, the RPE consisted of a single layer of low cuboidal cells. The epithelial cells were joined laterally by apically located tight junctions. These cells displayed numerous basal infoldings and abundant thin apical processes which enclosed the rod outer segments. The epithelial cell nuclei were large and located basally. Within the epithelial cells, smooth endoplasmic reticulum was very abundant, while rough endoplasmic reticulum was scarce. polysomes and mitochondria, which often display a ring-shaped struccture, were abundant. Melanosomes were abundant in the non-tapetal area but absent in the tapetal area. Bruch's membrane was pentalaminate throughout the retina. The endothelium of the choriocapillaris was heavily fenestrated. [source]


USE OF PORCINE SMALL INTESTINAL SUBMUCOSA IN BLADDER AUGMENTATION IN RABBIT: LONG-TERM HISTOLOGICAL OUTCOME

ANZ JOURNAL OF SURGERY, Issue 1-2 2008
Ali Ayyildiz
Aim: To investigate long-term histological features of bladder augmentation using porcine small intestine submucosa (SIS) in a rabbit model. Materials and method: Sixteen New Zealand rabbits were used. Porcine SIS was provided by a manufactured formation derived from the pig. After partial cystectomy was carried out on the bladder, a single layer of SIS (Cook® -SIS Technology, Cook Biotech Incorporated, West Lafayette, IN, USA) (2 × 5 cm) was sewn to bladder with continuous 5/0 vicryl suture material in a watertight manner. Urinary diversion was not used. The rabbits were killed 12 months later and perivesical fat was removed together with bladder. The 5-,m preparations taken from the samples were stained with haematoxylin,eosin and Mason's trichrome dye. S-100 and F8 stains were also used for immunohistochemical investigations. Results: The macroscopic view of bladder was normal. SIS was indistinguishable from normal bladder wall, but the region of the graft had a slight white coloration. Microscopic observations showed the continuity of transitional epithelium of host bladder tissue on SIS material. Detrusor and serosal layers were formed and these layers were indistinguishable from host bladder. Fibroblasts were scattered among the collagen fibrils. New vessel formations were present without lymphatic proliferation. Nerve regeneration was excellent. No inflammation was observed in normal and regenerated bladder wall. Conclusion: At the end of 12 months, the long-term histological features of bladder augmentation with porcine SIS in a rabbit model, such as presence of new vessel formations, nerve regeneration, collagen and smooth muscle regenerations, which were indistinguishable from original bladder, and the absence of inflammation, showed that SIS seems to be a viable alternative to the use of intestine in bladder augmentation. [source]


Excessive maternal caffeine exposure during pregnancy is cataractogenic for neonatal crystalline lenses in rats: a biomicroscopic and histopathologic study

ACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 5 2004
Cem Evereklioglu
Abstract. Purpose:,To investigate histologically the influence of maternal caffeine exposure during pregnancy in vivo on crystalline lenses in neonatal rats. Methods:,Experimentally naive, female Wistar-albino rats (200,220 g) were mated with adult male rats over 2 days for copulation. After confirming pregnancy with a vaginal smear method, 50 gravid rats (dams) were randomly divided into five groups (n = 10 in each), consisting of one control and four experimental groups. Groups 1, 2 and 3 experimental dams were treated with intraperitoneal (i.p.) caffeine at doses of 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg/day, respectively, during pregnancy from gestational day 9 through to day 21. Group 4 dams were treated with caffeine in distilled water in a gavage at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day. Group 5 control dams were given i.p. saline solution daily for the same period. After normal delivery, the eyes were examined by slit-lamp biomicroscopy. The neonates were then killed by decapitation at postnatal days 1 or 30 and the eyes removed for histopathologic investigation of the lenses. Results:,Group 1 and control eyes had normal anterior lens capsules with a single layer of anterior cuboidal epithelial cells, regularly oriented cortical and nuclear lens fibres, and a clear posterior lens capsule with no lining epithelial cells behind the equator. In the remaining groups, histopathologic findings suggesting cataractogenesis included eosinophilic degeneration, lens fibre cell swelling and liquefaction, central lens fibres with retained nuclei, and prominent epithelial cells lining the posterior lens capsule behind the equator. Moreover, some lenses in group 3 had immature cataract on slit-lamp biomicroscopic examination at postnatal day 30. Conclusion:,Excessive maternal caffeine exposure during pregnancy had cataractogenic effects on developing crystalline lenses in newborn rat eyes, both macroscopically and histopathologically. If an appropriate dose of caffeine can be identified, caffeine-induced cataract formation may be used as a new experimental cataract model in animal studies. [source]


A Dual Electrochrome of Poly-(3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene) Doped by N,N,-Bis(3-sulfonatopropyl)-4-4,-bipyridinium,Redox Chemistry and Electrochromism in Flexible Devices

CHEMSUSCHEM CHEMISTRY AND SUSTAINABILITY, ENERGY & MATERIALS, Issue 1 2010
Shweta Bhandari
Abstract An electrochromic zwitterionic viologen, N,N,-bis(3-sulfonatopropyl)-4-4,-bipyridinium, has been used for the first time for doping poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiopene) (PEDOT) films during electropolymerization. Slow and fast diffusional rates for the monomer at deposition potentials of +1.2 and +1.8,V, respectively yielded the viologen-doped PEDOT films with granular morphology and with dendrite-like shapes. The dual electrochrome formed at +1.8,V, showed enhanced coloration efficiency, larger electrochemical charge storage capacity, and superior redox activity in comparison to its analogue grown at +1.2,V, thus demonstrating the role of dendritic shapes in amplifying electrochromism. Flexible electrochromic devices fabricated with the viologen-doped PEDOT film grown at +1.8,V and Prussian blue with an ionic liquid-based gel electrolyte film showed reversible coloration between pale and dark purple with maximum coloration efficiency of 187,cm2,C,1 at ,=693,nm. The diffusional impedance parameters and switching kinetics of the device showed the suitability of this dual electrochrome formed as a single layer for practical electrochromic cells. [source]


Histopathology of a functioning mitomycin-C trabeculectomy

CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL OPHTHALMOLOGY, Issue 3 2009
Steve Y-W Liang MBBS
Abstract The ideal trabeculectomy bleb is diffuse, normally vascularized and characterized by microcystic change in the overlying conjunctiva. We compare and contrast the histopathology of a normally functioning mitomycin-C trabeculectomy site obtained from an eye enucleated for iris melanoma with abnormal blebs discussed in the literature. Representative sections of the normally functioning bleb were examined under the light microscope. The conjunctiva is composed of a uniform three-layered non-keratinizing stratified squamous epithelium overlying a single layer of oedematous basal cells. The conjunctival stroma consisted of loose connective tissue, traversed by capillaries and scattered small cystic spaces lined by endothelial cells. There were no goblet cells and few inflammatory cells and fibroblasts. The scleral trapdoor was evident as a cleft in the scleral wall in communication with the anterior chamber at the surgically created sclerostomy. Because the histopathological findings in our case correlate well with this clinical appearance, we conclude that whereas augmentation with anti-metabolites, such as mitomycin-C, can be associated with significantly altered conjunctival histopathology and consequent hypotony, but, if used carefully, normal architecture is conserved. [source]