bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A CHAOS-BASED RANDOM NUMBER GENERATOR FOR EIGHT-BIT MICRO-CONTROLLER SYSTEM
Authors: TANG K. W. , KWOK H. S. , TANG WALLACE K. S. , MAN K. F.
Published: June 2008

Random number generators are widely used in different applications. However, it is difficult to obtain a good random number generator in low precision and resource constrained system, such as an eight-bit micro-controller system which is still commonly used in industrial and consumer markets. This paper provides a practical solution for this problem based on chaotic systems. By the use of a modified Chua's circuit, it is demonstrated that the sampled state, after post-processing by a high-dimensional chaotic map, can be used as a random source even in an eight-bit environment. The randomness of the generated sequence is testified and confirmed by different statistical tests and the up-to-date statistical suite.
SOLITON-MEDIATED ELECTRON PAIRING
Authors: VELARDE MANUEL G. , NEIßNER CHRISTIAN
Published: June 2008

We study electron-electron pairing in an one-dimensional model lattice system embedded into a three-dimensional environment. The electron pair potential is lowered by a single, localized lattice deformation. Such a deformation is related to solitons moving along the lattice. Yet the exact form and the time evolution of the lattice excitation are of secondary relevance as the electron pair is stable for sufficiently wide deformations which propagate on molecular time scales, e.g. velocity of sound ≪ electron velocity. The spatial structure of the pair potential and the electron-electron wave function bring a mechanism of pairing different from the exchange of phonons between the electrons and the lattice which leads to Cooper pairs, and different also from the formation of bipolarons.
FROM SYMMETRY TO COMPLEXITY: ON INSTABILITIES AND THE UNITY IN DIVERSITY IN NONLINEAR SCIENCE
Authors: SCHMIDT JAN CORNELIUS
Published: June 2008

Throughout this paper I will argue that dynamical and structural instabilities are the sources of complexity and pattern formation. The argument can be accomplished by defending two theses. First, a demarcation thesis: two different approaches are predominant in mathematical sciences today — the symmetry-approach and the complexity-approach. Second, a synthesis thesis: although the two approaches differ, they can be connected and, further, to some degree integrated: instabilities are core concepts connecting the two approaches. However, in a specific sense we can say: evolution leads from symmetry to complexity by transitions across borders of instabilities. This paper will provide further arguments in favor of a structural unity in phenomenological diversity [Mainzer, 2005].
ON EPSTEIN'S ZETA FUNCTION OF HUMBERT FORMS
Authors: COULANGEON RENAUD
Published: June 2008

The Epstein ζ function ζ(Γ,s) of a lattice Γ is defined by a series which converges for any complex number s such that ℜ s > n/2, and admits a meromorphic continuation to the complex plane, with a simple pole at s = n/2. The question as to which Γ, for a fixed s, minimizes ζ(Γ,s), has a long history, dating back to Sobolev's work on numerical integration, and subsequent papers by Delone and Ryshkov among others. This was also investigated more recently by Sarnak and Strombergsson. The present paper is concerned with similar questions for positive definite quadratic forms over number fields, also called Humbert forms. We define Epstein zeta functions in that context and study their meromorphic continuation and functional equation, this being known in principle but somewhat hard to find in the literature. Then, we give a general criterion for a Humbert form to be finally ζ extreme, which we apply to a family of examples in the last section.
ON THE 2-ADIC IWASAWA INVARIANTS OF ORDINARY ELLIPTIC CURVES
Authors: MATSUNO KAZUO
Published: June 2008

In this paper, we give an explicit formula describing the variation of the 2-adic Iwasawa λ-invariants attached to the Selmer groups of elliptic curves under quadratic twists. To prove this formula, we extend some results known for odd primes p, an analogue of Kida's formula proved by Hachimori and the author and a formula given by Greenberg and Vatsal, to the case where p = 2.
ANOTHER CASE OF A SCHOLZ'S THEOREM ON CLASS GROUPS
Authors: ZHANG LINGRUI , YUE QIN
Published: June 2008

In this paper, we give necessary and sufficient conditions for 8-ranks of narrow class groups of [Formula: see text], distinct primes p ≡ q ≡ 1 mod 4. The results are useful for numerical computations.
BRAP forensics
Authors: Berghel Hal
Published: June 2008

Boutique computer activity mining vs. personal privacy management.
The tangible user interface and its evolution
Authors: Ishii Hiroshi
Published: June 2008

Users sculpt and manipulate digital information throughsuch tangible media as clay, sand, and building models, coupled with underlying computation for design and analysis.
Interactions with proactive architectural spaces
Authors: Oosterhuis Kas , Biloria Nimish
Published: June 2008

Developing structures as flexible networked information processors.
A risk profile of offshore-outsourced development projects
Authors: Iacovou Charalambos L. , Nakatsu Robbie
Published: June 2008

Even the best project management skills will not guarantee success in the complex world of offshore outsourcing.
Outsourcing and the decrease of IS program enrollment
Authors: Huang Wayne Wei , Greene Jonathon , Day John
Published: June 2008

Students must learn to accentuate the positive in order to eliminate the negative perceptions of career opportunities in IS.
What causes a system to satisfy a specification?
Authors: Chockler Hana , Halpern Joseph Y. , Kupferman Orna
Published: June 2008

Even when a system is proven to be correct with respect to a specification, there is still a question of how complete the specification is, and whether it really covers all the behaviors of the system.Coverage metricsattempt to check which parts of a system are actually relevant for the verification process to succeed. Recent work on coverage in model checking suggests several coverage metrics and algorithms for finding parts of the system that are not covered by the specification. The work has already proven to be effective in practice, detecting design errors that escape early verification efforts in industrial settings. In this article, we relate a formal definition of causality given by Halpern and Pearl to coverage. We show that it gives significant insight into unresolved issues regarding the definition of coverage and leads to potentially useful extensions of coverage. In particular, we introduce the notion ofresponsibility, which assigns to components of a system a quantitative measure of their relevance to the satisfaction of the specification.
Conjunctive query containment and answering under description logic constraints
Authors: Calvanese Diego , Giacomo Giuseppe De , Lenzerini Maurizio
Published: June 2008

Query containment and query answering are two important computational tasks in databases. While query answering amounts to computing the result of a query over a database, query containment is the problem of checking whether, for every database, the result of one query is a subset of the result of another query.

In this article, we deal with unions of conjunctive queries, and we address query containment and query answering under description logic constraints. Every such constraint is essentially an inclusion dependency between concepts and relations, and their expressive power is due to the possibility of using complex expressions in the specification of the dependencies, for example, intersection and difference of relations, special forms of quantification, regular expressions over binary relations. These types of constraints capture a great variety of data models, including the relational, the entity-relationship, and the object-oriented model, all extended with various forms of constraints. They also capture the basic features of the ontology languages used in the context of the Semantic Web.

We present the following results on both query containment and query answering. We provide a method for query containment under description logic constraints, thus showing that the problem is decidable, and analyze its computational complexity. We prove that query containment is undecidable in the case where we allow inequalities in the right-hand-side query, even for very simple constraints and queries. We show that query answering under description logic constraints can be reduced to query containment, and illustrate how such a reduction provides upper-bound results with respect to both combined and data complexity.
The future of television graphics
Authors: Edsall Samuel
Published: June 2008

It is an exciting time to be in television. The advances in digital television, computers, and all the peripherals related to them open the creative gate for television graphic designers. Television is undergoing some growing pains and is about to transform into an entirely new format.
Esophageal Injury and Temperature Monitoring During Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Authors: Singh Sheldon M. , d'Avila Andre , Doshi Shephal K. , Brugge William R. , Bedford Rudolph A. , Mela Theofanie , Ruskin Jeremy N. , Reddy Vivek Y.
Published: June 2008

Background—

It is common practice to empirically limit the radiofrequency (RF) power when ablating the posterior left atrium during atrial fibrillation ablation to avoid thermal injury to the esophagus. The objective of this study was to determine whether RF energy delivery limited by luminal esophageal temperature (LET) monitoring is associated with a reduction in esophageal injury compared with a strategy of RF power limitation alone.

Methods and Results—

Eighty-one consecutive patients who underwent atrial fibrillation ablation followed by esophageal endoscopy were included in this observational study. All patients underwent extraostial electric pulmonary vein isolation by using an electroanatomic mapping system and irrigated RF ablation. All RF applications on the posterior left atrium were limited to 35 W. A commercially available, single-thermocouple esophageal probe was used to monitor LET in a subset of patients (n=67). In these cases, applications were promptly interrupted when LET was ≥38.5�C; further applications were performed at reduced power to obtain a LET <38.5�C. Esophageal endoscopy was performed 1 to 3 days after the procedure. Ablation-related esophageal ulcerations were identified in 9 of 81 (11%) patients. All patients were asymptomatic. Of these 81 patients, LET monitoring during ablation occurred in 67 (83%) of patients. Esophageal injury was observed more frequently (36% versus 6%,
P
<0.006) in the group without LET monitoring.

Conclusions—

These data suggest that LET monitoring may be associated with a reduction in esophageal injury compared with power limitation alone.
Efficacy of In-Hospital Multidimensional Interventions of Secondary Prevention After Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Auer Reto , Gaume Jacques , Rodondi Nicolas , Cornuz Jacques , Ghali William A.
Published: June 2008

Background—

Secondary prevention programs for patients experiencing an acute coronary syndrome have been shown to be effective in the outpatient setting. The efficacy of in-hospital prevention interventions administered soon after acute cardiac events is unclear. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether in-hospital, patient-level interventions targeting multiple cardiovascular risk factors reduce all-cause mortality after an acute coronary syndrome.

Methods and Results—

Using a prespecified search strategy, we included controlled clinical trials and before-after studies of secondary prevention interventions with at least a patient-level component (ie, education, counseling, or patient-specific order sets) initiated in hospital with outcomes of mortality, readmission, or reinfarction rates in acute coronary syndrome patients. We classified the interventions as patient-level interventions with or without associated healthcare provider–level interventions and/or system-level interventions. Twenty-six studies met our inclusion criteria. The summary estimate of 14 studies revealed a relative risk of all-cause mortality of 0.79 (95% CI, 0.69 to 0.92; n=37′585) at 1 year. However, the apparent benefit depended on study design and level of intervention. The before-after studies suggested reduced mortality (relative risk [RR], 0.77; 95% CI, 0.66 to 0.90; n=3680 deaths), whereas the RR was 0.96 (95% CI, 0.64 to 1.44; n=99 deaths) among the controlled clinical trials. Only interventions including a provider- or system-level intervention suggested reduced mortality compared with patient-level–only interventions.

Conclusions—

The evidence for in-hospital, patient-level interventions for secondary prevention is promising but not definitive because only before-after studies suggest a significant reduction in mortality. Future research should formally test which components of interventions provide the greatest benefit.
Targeted Molecular Probes for Imaging Atherosclerotic Lesions With Magnetic Resonance Using Antibodies That Recognize Oxidation-Specific Epitopes
Authors: Briley-Saebo Karen C. , Shaw Peter X. , Mulder Willem J.M. , Choi Seung-Hyuk , Vucic Esad , Aguinaldo Juan Gilberto S. , Witztum Joseph L. , Fuster Valentin , Tsimikas Sotirios , Fayad Zahi A.
Published: June 2008

Background—

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein plays a key role in the initiation, progression, and destabilization of atherosclerotic plaques and is present in macrophages and the lipid pool. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of magnetic resonance imaging of atherosclerotic lesions in mice using micelles containing gadolinium and murine (MDA2 and E06) or human (IK17) antibodies that bind unique oxidation-specific epitopes.

Methods and Results—

MDA2 micelles, E06 micelles, IK17 micelles, nonspecific IgG micelles, and untargeted micelles (no antibody) were prepared and characterized with respect to pharmacokinetics and biodistribution in wild-type and atherosclerotic apolipoprotein E–deficient (apoE
−/−
) mice. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed at 9.4 T over a 96-hour time interval after the administration of 0.075–mmol Gd/kg micelles. MDA2, E06, and IK17 micelles exhibited a longer plasma half-life than IgG or untargeted micelles in apoE
−/−
but not wild-type mice. In apoE
−/−
mice, MDA2 and IK17 micelles showed maximal arterial wall uptake at 72 hours and E06 micelles at 96 hours, manifested by 125% to 231% enhancement in magnetic resonance signal compared with adjacent muscle. Confocal microscopy revealed that MDA2, IK17, and E06 micelles accumulated within atherosclerotic lesions and specifically within macrophages. Intravenous injection of free MDA2 before imaging with MDA2 micelles resulted in significantly diminished magnetic resonance signal enhancement. IgG micelles and untargeted micelles showed minimal enhancement in apoE
−/−
mice. There was no significant signal enhancement with all micelles in wild-type mice.

Conclusions—

Magnetic resonance imaging with micelles containing gadolinium and oxidation-specific antibodies demonstrates specific targeting and excellent image quality of oxidation-rich atherosclerotic lesions.
Bacteremia Associated With Toothbrushing and Dental Extraction
Authors: Lockhart Peter B. , Brennan Michael T. , Sasser Howell C. , Fox Philip C. , Paster Bruce J. , Bahrani-Mougeot Farah K.
Published: June 2008

Background—

Antibiotic prophylaxis recommendations for the prevention of infective endocarditis are based in part on studies of bacteremia from dental procedures, but toothbrushing may pose a greater threat. The purpose of this study was to compare the incidence, duration, nature, and magnitude of endocarditis-related bacteremia from single-tooth extraction and toothbrushing and to determine the impact of amoxicillin prophylaxis on single-tooth extraction.

Methods and Results—

In this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 290 subjects were randomized to (1) toothbrushing, (2) single-tooth extraction with amoxicillin prophylaxis, or (3) single-tooth extraction with identical placebo. Blood was drawn for bacterial culturing and identification at 6 time points before, during, and after these interventions. The focus of our analysis was on bacterial species reported to cause infective endocarditis. We identified 98 bacterial species, 32 of which are reported to cause endocarditis. Cumulative incidence of endocarditis-related bacteria from all 6 blood draws was 23%, 33%, and 60% for the toothbrushing, extraction-amoxicillin, and extraction-placebo groups, respectively (
P
<0.0001). Significant differences were identified among the 3 groups at draws 2, 3, 4, and 5 (all
P
<0.05). Amoxicillin resulted in a significant decrease in positive cultures (
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions—

Although amoxicillin has a significant impact on bacteremia resulting from a single-tooth extraction, given the greater frequency for oral hygiene, toothbrushing may be a greater threat for individuals at risk for infective endocarditis.
A Comparative Study of Religiocentrism among Christian, Muslim and Hindu Students in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Sterkens Carl , Anthony Francis-Vincent
Published: June 2008

This article presents a theoretical framework for religiocentrism that is suited to cross-religious comparisons between Christians, Muslims and Hindus. Religiocentrism is defined as the combination of positive attitudes toward the religious ingroup and negative attitudes toward religious outgroup(s). Empirical research proves the relevance of the construct 'religiocentrism' among Christian, Muslim and Hindu college students in Tamil Nadu. Full score comparability is possible for positive ingroup attitudes but is hampered in the case of negative outgroup attitudes because of the specificity of outgroup prejudice to each religious group. Cross-religious differences between levels of positive ingroup attitudes can be explained in terms of the differential effects of socio-cultural, socio-economic and socio-religious characteristics. This topic calls for further reflection, taking into account contextual factors such as majority versus minority position and specific religious convictions for each religious tradition, more particularly within the context of Tamil Nadu. The article ends with a discussion of the findings.
Married in the Water: Spirit Kin and Other Afflictions of Modernity in Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Bastian Misty L.
Published: June 2008

As we approached another incarnation we made pacts that we would return to the spirit world at the first opportunity... Those of us who made such vows were known among the Living as abiku, spirit-children. Not all people recognised us. We were the ones who kept coming and going, unwilling to come to terms with life. We had the ability to will our deaths. Our pacts were binding. Those who broke their pacts were assailed by hallucinations and haunted by their companions. They would only find consolation when they returned to the world of the Unborn, the place of fountains, where their loved ones would be waiting for them silently. Those of us who lingered in the world, seduced by the annunciation of wonderful events, went through life with beautiful and fated eyes, carrying within us the music of a lovely and tragic mythology. Our mouths utter obscure prophesies. Our minds are invaded by images of the future. We are the strange ones, with half of our beings always in the spirit world. We were often recognised and our flesh marked with razor incisions. When we were born again to the same parents the marks, lingering on our new flesh, branded our souls in advance. Then the world would spin a web of fate around our lives. Those of us who died while still children tried to erase these marks, by making beautiful spots or interesting discolorations of them. If we didn't succeed, and were recognised, we were greeted with howls of dread, and the weeping of mothers.
Development and Interreligious Dialogue - Some Preliminary Remarks for Discussion -1
Authors: Dornberg Ulrich
Published: June 2008

The context, in which Christianity in Asia is situated can be characterized2 by both the massive poverty of the Asian people and their deep adherence to (non-Christian) religions, which make the Christian Churches a tiny minority in Asia. Therefore Christians in search for a new identity in Asia have often been turning either to 'development' activities or to dialogue with other religions. The question however is, whether there is also a relationship between development and dialogue, and if so, how does it work, what are its implications.
Fabrication of Transparent Capacitive Structure by Self-Assembled Thin Films
Authors: Zhang Q. , Shin Y. J. , Hua F. , Saraf L. V. , Matson D. W.
Published: June 2008

An approach to fabricating transparent electronic devices by using nanomaterial and nanofabrication is presented in this paper. A see-through capacitor is constructed from self-assembled silica nanoparticle layers that are stacked on the transparent substrate. The electrodes are made
of indium tin oxide. Unlike the traditional processes used to fabricate such devices, the self-assembly approach enables one to synthesize the thin film layers at lower temperature and cost, and with a broader availability of nanomaterials. The vertical dimension of the self-assembled thin
films can be precisely controlled, as well as the molecular order in the thin film layers. The shape of the capacitor is generated by planar micropatterning. The monitoring by quartz crystal demonstrates the steady growth of the silica nanoparticle multilayer. In addition, because the material
synthesis and the device fabrication steps are separate, the fabrication is not affected by the harsh conditions required for the material synthesis. As a result, a clear pattern is allowed over a large area on the substrate. The prepared capacitive structure has an optical transparency higher
than 92% over the visible spectrum. The capacitive impedance is measured at different frequencies and fit the theoretical results. As one of the fundamental components, this type of capacitive structure can serve in the transparent circuits, interactive media and sensors, as well as being
applicable to other transparent devices.
Nanoreactor Engineering and Spark Plasma Sintering of Gd20Ce80O1.90 Nanopowders
Authors: Borodianska H. , Vasylkiv O. , Sakka Y.
Published: June 2008

The concept of the in situ engineering of nanoreactors – morphologically homogeneous aggregates of synthesized complex intermediate metastable products has been realized. The nanoblast calcination technique was applied and the final composition was synthesized within the
preliminary localized volumes of each single nanoreactor. Such technique provided the heredity of the final structure of nanosize product, and allowed the prevention of the uncontrolled agglomeration and production of Gd20Ce80O1.90 powder consisting of ∼50
nm nano-aggregates of ∼7 nm crystallites with a remarkably homogeneous composition and uniform morphology. Finally, the SPS consolidation of nanosized aggregates of Gd20Ce80O1.90 was analyzed. The CGO nanoceramics with average grain sizes of 32 nm and 16
nm were obtained by low-temperature SPS at 1050 °C and 970 °C, respectively under the pressures of 90–150 MPa.
Sonochemical Reaction of Fullerene[C60] with Several 2′-Azidoethyl per-O-Acetyl Glycosides
Authors: Yoon Shinsook , Ho Hwang Sung , Bae Ko Weon
Published: June 2008

Cycloadditive reaction of fullerene[C60] with various 2′-azidoethyl per-O-acetyl glycopyranoside of D-mannose, D-galactose, D-glucose, D-xylose and D-maltose, respectively gave the glycosyl fullerene[C60] derivatives 2a–2e such as α-D-mannosyl
fullerene[C60] under ultrasonication. Based on analyses using 1H- and 13C-NMR, UV-vis, FT-IR, and FAB-MS spectroscopies of the glycosyl fullerene[C60] derivatives, the products were composed of a mixture of [5,6]- and [6,6]-junction isomers which
were predominantly the closed [5,6]-junction isomer.
Scratch and Wear Resistance of Polyamide 6 Reinforced with Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Giraldo Luis F. , Brostow Witold , Devaux Eric , López Betty L. , Pérez León D.
Published: June 2008

While carbon nanotubes have been used for a variety of purposes, it was not known whether they can improve tribological properties of polymers. Polyamide 6 (PA6) has been reinforced with 0.2, 0.5 and 1.0 wt% of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) by melt mixing process and characterized
by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scratching, sliding wear and tensile testing. TGA results for the air atmosphere show that MWCNTs shift the onset of thermal degradation to higher temperatures. Sliding wear tests show
that the penetration depth decreases as the concentration of carbon nanotubes increases. However, the viscoelastic healing is hampered by the MWCNTs presence and the residual depths increase at the same time. Narrower scratch groove widths are seen in SEM for composites with MWCNTs, and scratch
hardness increases. Tensile tests show an increase of 27% in the Young modulus value upon addition of 1.0% of MWCNTs. The stress at yield is also higher for the nanocomposites.
Polymeric Micelles Modified by Folate-PEG-Lipid for Targeted Drug Delivery to Cancer Cells In Vitro
Authors: Hayama Akihiro , Yamamoto Tatsuhiro , Yokoyama Masayuki , Kawano Kumi , Hattori Yoshiyuki , Maitani Yoshie
Published: June 2008

A novel technique was developed for the formation of ligand-targeted polymeric micelles that can be applicable to various ligands. For tumor-specific drug delivery, camptothecin (CPT)-loaded polymeric micelles were modified by folate to produce a folate-receptor-targeted drug carrier.
Folate-linked PEG5000-distearoylphosphatidylethanolamine (folate-PEG5000-DSPE) was added when preparations of drug-loaded polymeric micelles, resulting in folate ligands exposed to the surface. Folate-modified CPT-loaded polymeric micelles (F-micelle) were evaluated by
measuring cellular uptake using a flow cytometer, fluorescence microscopy, and confocal laser scanning microscopy, and by cytotoxicity measurement. The results revealed that F-micelle showed higher cellular uptake in KB cells over-expressing folate receptor (FR) and higher cytotoxicity compared
with non-folate modified CPT-loaded polymeric micelles (plain micelles) in KB cells, but not in FR-negative HepG2 cells. This result indicated that polymeric micelles were successfully modified by the folate-linked lipid.
Bacterial Synthesis of Copper/Copper Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Saif Hasan Syed , Singh Sanjay , Parikh Rasesh Y. , Dharne Mahesh S. , Patole Milind S. , Prasad B. L. V. , Shouche Yogesh S.
Published: June 2008

A bacterial mediated synthesis of copper/copper oxide nanoparticle composite is reported. A Gram-negative bacterium belonging to the genus Serratia was isolated from the midgut of Stibara sp., an insect of the Cerambycidae family of beetles found in the Northwestern Ghats
of India. This is a unique bacterium that is quite specific for the synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles as several other strains isolated from the same insect and common Indian mosquitoes did not result in nanoparticle formation. By following the reaction systematically, we could delineate
that the nanoparticle formation occurs intracellularly. However, the process results in the killing of bacterial cells. Subsequently the nanoparticles leak out as the cell wall disintegrates. The nanoparticles formed are thoroughly characterized by UV-Vis, TEM, XRD, XPS and FTIR studies.
Shape Transformation and Relaxation Dynamics of Photoexcited TiO2/Ag Nanocomposites
Authors: Rahn Kim Mee , Seong Ah Chil , Shin Dongha , Kyung Lee Sang , Lee Wan In , Jang Du-Jeon
Published: June 2008

The laser-induced sintering of TiO2 nanoparticles into larger nanospheres is accelerated by adsorbed silver particles. For the same weight fraction of silver, silver nanoparticles of 5 nm in diameter modify TiO2 nanoparticles more effectively than those of 1.5
nm do, suggesting that the photocatalysis of TiO2 nanoparticles as well as their stability is highly dependent on the sizes, the shapes, and the distribution of adsorbed metal nanoparticles. The photoexcited electrons of TiO2 nanoparticles are quenched at trap sites and
surface states by transfer to the conduction band of silver, implying that the presence of adsorbed silver nanoparticles enhances the photocatalytic effect of TiO2.
Direct Synthesis of ZnS Nanoribbons, Micro-Sheets and Tetrapods
Authors: Kar Soumitra , Santra Swadeshmukul , Chaudhuri Subhadra
Published: June 2008

ZnS nano and micro structures such as nanoribbons, large sheets and tetrapod shaped crystals were fabricated by direct thermal evaporation of ZnS powder without using any catalyst. Formation of the one dimensional structures such as nanoribbons and micron order sheets was attributed
to the vapor-solid growth mechanism. The formation of octahedron nucleus with cubic crystal structures was proposed as the growth unit of the wurtzite crystal structured tetrapods. Appearance of the periodic stacking faults or twining planes in between alternate cubic and hexagonal crystal
structured zones along the growth direction of the ribbons provided secondary growth sites for the octahedron nucleus and subsequent crystal growth resulted in to the formation of the tetrapod arrays. These nano/micro structures of ZnS exhibited a green emission band at room temperature.
Re-Dispersible Li+ and Eu3+ Co-Doped Nanocrystalline ZnO: Luminescence and EPR Studies
Authors: Ningthoujam R. S. , Gajbhiye N. S. , Ahmed Asar , Umre S. S. , Sharma S. J.
Published: June 2008

Nano-crystals of ZnO, Eu3+ doped ZnO, and Li+, Eu3+ co-doped ZnO have been prepared by urea hydrolysis in ethylene glycol medium at 150 °C. Ethylene glycol acts as capping agent for nanoparticles. Three colors 437 (blue), 540 (green) and 615 nm (red)
from 2 at.% Li+ and 5 at.% Eu3+ co-doped ZnO have been observed from luminescence studies compared to that from 5 at.%. Eu3+ doped ZnO, which shows emission at 437 and 615 nm. It is established that green light is originated from the oxygen vacancy brought
by Li+ incorporation into ZnO. Particles are re-dispersible in organic solvent such as ethanol, and are able to incorporate into polymer-based material such as SiO2 matrix.
Construction of Highly Pure Nanocrystalline Heteropoly Acid Inside the Channels of Mesoporous Material with the Imprisoned Hydrolyzation Reaction of Heteropoly Acid Etherate
Authors: Gu Ying-Ying , Yu Shu-Yuan , Kong Ai-Guo , Hua Chun-Yan , Ding Han-Ming , Shan Yong-Kui
Published: June 2008

A novel technique was developed to prepare highly pure heteropoly acid (HPA) nanocrystals inside mesoporous SBA-15 by the imprisoned reaction of HPA etherate and water, which was utilized as a main driving force for the transportation of building-blocks. The transmission electron microscopy,
X-ray diffraction, FT-IR spectrum and NMR characterizations unambiguously demonstrate that this method allows the highly pure heteropoly acid nanocrystals with intact Keggin-type structure controlled directionally self-assembly within mesopores of silica SBA-15. Such method may open up a new
entry to the highly pure multicomponent nanocrystalline particles inside the cavity of the porous materials.
Fabrication of Hierarchically Porous Spherical Particles by Assembling Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles via Spray Drying
Authors: Urata Chihiro , Yamauchi Yusuke , Aoyama Yuko , Imasu Junko , Todoroki Shin-ichi , Sakka Yoshio , Inoue Satoru , Kuroda Kazuyuki
Published: June 2008

A new type of hierarchically porous materials is fabricated by assembling mesoporous nanoparticles via spray drying. Well-dispersed mesostructured silica nanoparticles (MSN), whose particle size distribution was narrow in the range of 20 nm and 50 nm, were prepared by a thermal deposition
method. By spray drying a MSN suspension, MSN were assembled into spherical secondary particles. After calcination, the spherical particles have two types of mesopores, mesopores of 3 nm in size inside of calcined MSN and larger inter-nanoparticle mesopores of about 15∼20 nm. This hierarchical
pore system should provide nanospaces for efficient mass transport of guest species with different sizes.
Modifications of Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotubes with B-Containing Vapor and Their Effects on the Properties of Boron Carbide Matrix Nanocomposites
Authors: Herth S. , Miranda D. , Doremus R. H. , Siegel R. W.
Published: June 2008

Multi-wall carbon nanotubes were modified by heating them together with elemental boron powder. B4C crystals grew on the surfaces of the nanotubes, and electron diffraction patterns showed an orientation dependence of the surface B4C and the underlying carbon in
the nanotubes. There was no reaction of the nanotubes with solid B2O3 alone. Composites of the modified nanotubes in a B4C matrix showed a small increase of density over sintered B4C.
Effect of Yttria-doping on Mechanical Properties of Bovine Hydroxyapatite (BHA)
Authors: Gunduz O. , Daglilar S. , Salman S. , Ekren N. , Agathopoulos S. , Oktar F.N.
Published: June 2008

Sintered bodies of hydroxyapatite, derived from calcinated bovine bone (BHA) and doped with 0.5 and 1 wt% Y2O3, were prepared. Measurements of density, compression strength, and microhardness, along with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were carried out. The experimental results showed that BHA doping with yttria favors formation of glassy phase, which advances sintering and results in a dense and reinforced BHA matrix. The best mechanical properties were achieved after sintering at 1200°C for compressive strength (82MPa) and 1300°C for microhardness (672HV). These results are better than pure BHA or composites of hydroxyapatite with Y2O3-stablized zirconia, qualifying yttria (as dopant of BHA) for further in vitro and in vivo experimentation.
Improving Compressive Failure Strain and Work of Fracture of Magnesium by Integrating it with Millimeter Length Scale Aluminum
Authors: Paramsothy M. , Gupta M. , Srikanth N.
Published: June 2008

Solidification processing followed by hot coextrusion was used to fabricate a bimetal magnesium/aluminum macrocomposite containing millimeter-scale Al core reinforcement. Microstructural characterization revealed limited interfacial interdiffusion of both metals into each other. Compressive testing revealed that the presence of Al core does not affect 0.2%YS, marginally decreases ultimate compressive strength (UCS), and significantly increases failure strain (115%) and work of fracture (55%) of Mg. The effect of the presence of mm-scale Al core on the compressive properties of the bimetal macrocomposite is investigated in this article.
Non-destructive Inspection of Composites Using Step Heating Thermography
Authors: Badghaish Adel A. , Fleming David C.
Published: June 2008

The article explores the use of step heating thermography for defect identification in glass fiber reinforced composites. Step heating methods have potential for increasing the maximum detectable defect depth as compared with pulse heating methods. Inspection of thick fiberglass composites containing flat-bottom holes and resistive embedded defects using step heating thermography is investigated using 1-D analytical models, axisymmetric finite element modes, and experimental methods. 1-D heat transfer models of embedded defects under step heating are developed based on results from previous research of pulse heating thermography. Finite element models are used to explore the range of validity of defect identification techniques based on correlation with 1-D analytical methods, and it is found that accurate results are obtained for a defect radius to thickness ratio greater than two. Experimental results demonstrate the validity of the 1-D models for high defect resistance cases. For low resistance defects, detection is more difficult due to reduction of signal strength. A simple procedure is proposed to simultaneously determine defect depth and thermal resistance from the early time surface temperature profile based a two-point correlation with one-dimensional resistive defect solutions.
Recent Development of Planar Cruciform Experiment on Biaxial Tensile Deformation and Failure of Unidirectional Glass/Epoxy Composite
Authors: Mailly Luis , Su Su Wang
Published: June 2008

Inadequate experimental characterization of strength and deformation behavior of unidirectional fiber composites under planar biaxial stresses has hindered the development of complete material models. Here the recent development of a cruciform specimen with unidirectional gage section is presented, suitable to test glass/epoxy under combined high transverse and longitudinal tensile loads.

The experimental program developed comprises of six different biaxial tensile load ratios. The results show significant influence of longitudinal stress on transverse nonlinearity of a glass/epoxy. Failure loci and failure modes in biaxial tensile strain and stress domains are presented, indicating a reduction of transverse strength by high longitudinal loads.
Mentor Matching
Authors: Bozeman Barry , Feeney Mary K.
Published: June 2008

One of the few mentoring topics that has received little attention in the abundant mentoring literature is the determinants of organically formed (as opposed for formal program-based) mentoring relationships. The authors propose a Goodness of Fit model, which outlines the basic elements of the mentor—protégé match, viewing the relationship as a social exchange based on the fit among mentor and protégé preferences, endowments, and the content of knowledge transmitted. After presenting the model, the authors provide a few illustrative research questions that flow from the basic logic and terms of the model. They conclude with suggestions for future research, including possibilities of the use of the model in experimental and quasiexperimental research.
Public Service Motivation and the Assumption of Person—Organization Fit
Authors: Wright Bradley E. , Pandey Sanjay K.
Published: June 2008

This study contributes to our understanding of public service motivation by clarifying the mechanisms through which public service motivation influences employee attitudes previously linked to organizational performance. In particular, the authors find that the relationship between employee public service motivation and job satisfaction is mediated by the extent to which the employee perceives that his or her values are congruent with those of the public sector organization he or she works for. This study suggests that caution should be exercised when making claims regarding the effects of public service motivation and that greater emphasis should be placed on ways public sector organizations can foster employee—organization value congruence.
Civic Engagement Among Older Chinese Internet Users
Authors: Bo Xie
Published: June 2008

This study examines older Chinese Internet users' participation in voluntary associations, communities, and politics, focusing on members of a senior-oriented computer training organization based in Shanghai, China. The results show that the Internet can facilitate the civic engagement of these older Chinese, as illustrated by their active participation in Internet-promoting activities, devotion to starting new computer clubs in local communities, and efforts in persuading government officials to provide necessary resources for establishing and maintaining local computer clubs. The findings suggest the following: The Internet can be a useful concept (in contrast to its online informative and communicative functions per se) to facilitate civic engagement in the offline world, computer clubs might be a more attractive approach to civic engagement among older Chinese, and the Internet's impact is mediated by the historical and political contexts of older Chinese. These findings call for a broader understanding of the impact of the Internet on civic engagement.
Intradialytic Parenteral Nutrition Does Not Improve Survival in Malnourished Hemodialysis Patients: A 2‐Year Multicenter, Prospective, Randomized Study
Authors: Goday Praveen
Published: June 2008

Although intradialytic parenteral nutrition (IDPN) is a method used widely to combat protein‐calorie malnutrition in hemodialysis patients, its effect on survival has not been thoroughly studied. We conducted a prospective, randomized trial in which 186 malnourished hemodialysis patients received oral nutritional supplements with or without 1 year of IDPN. IDPN did not improve 2‐year mortality (primary end point), hospitalization rate, Karnofsky score, body mass index, or laboratory markers of nutritional status. Instead, both groups demonstrated improvement in body mass index and the nutritional parameters serum albumin and prealbumin (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that an increase in prealbumin of >30 mg/L within 3 months, a marker of nutritional improvement, independently predicted a 54% decrease in 2‐year mortality, as well as reduced hospitalizations and improved general well‐being as measured by the Karnofsky score. Therefore, although we found no definite advantage of adding IDPN to oral nutritional supplementation, this is the first prospective study demonstrating that an improvement in prealbumin during nutritional therapy is associated with a decrease in morbidity and mortality in malnourished hemodialysis patients.
Diet and Lifestyle Modifications in the Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Vemulapalli Roopa
Published: June 2008

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a chronic condition affecting 44% of the American population at least once a month, with daily occurrences affecting about 7% of the population. It is the most common gastrointestinal‐related diagnosis given by physicians during clinic visits in the United States. Treatment of this disease is a step‐wise approach that includes diet and lifestyle interventions as well as medications titrated based on symptom severity. This article reviews dietary and lifestyle factors that contribute to the physiology and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and modification of these factors as an adjunctive therapy.
Moving Nursing Science Forward Within the Framework of the Roy Adaptation Model
Authors: Dobratz Marjorie C.
Published: June 2008

In 1999, the Boston-Based Adaptation in Nursing Research Society associates published their analysis of Roy adaptation model—based research. This earlier analysis supported the model's conceptual framework, its adaptive processes, and the influences that effect human responses. The purpose of this article is to describe more recent research within the context of the Roy adaptation model's structural framework, and ongoing developments that include expanded research programs, middle-range theory construction, and research that is related to the philosophic assumptions. An additional aim is to present an expanded worldview or an integrated paradigm that includes both sets of the Roy adaptation model's assumptions (scientific and philosophic), as well as a holistic-adaptation inquiry that could be used to derive Roy adaptation model-based nursing knowledge in future research investigations.
Evaluating Narrative Pedagogy in Nursing Education in Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Engle Angela
Published: June 2008

This column provides a report of the effectiveness of a nursing program in Hong Kong that used narrative pedagogy. The comments of 12 recent graduates from a postgraduate baccalaureate nursing degree program who were willing to participate in a series of focus group meetings were included. The findings show that nursing education based on a human science paradigm helped form the professional nursing identity of the graduates, as they continued retelling, reliving, and reflecting on their caring narratives. A pragmatic approach to theory-enhanced practice is helpful for nursing graduates to sustain their caring practice.
Update on Research Framed in Orem's Model
Authors: Malinski Violet M.
Published: June 2008

In this column, Biggs updates the state of the science of Orem's self-care model and attendant theories, focusing primarily on research completed between 1999 and 2007. She notes that many of the problems identified in the 2000 state of the science column by Taylor and colleagues persist, such as failure to follow through in using Orem's work to inform the total research study, not just mentioning a theory or concept in passing. However, there is a clear indication of a substantial body of research appropriately framed within Orem's theories that bodes well for ongoing use and development of her work.
The Timelessness of Nursing Theory
Authors: Bunkers Sandra Schmidt
Published: June 2008

The following column explores the timelessness of nursing theory by highlighting Florence Nightingale's and Rosemarie Parse's theoretical underpinnings related to understanding the person's perspective on health and quality of life. Following this, a concept inventing process conducted by Barbara Condon explores a humanbecoming definition of feeling misunderstood.
The Case Study as Disciplinary Convention
Authors: Piekkari Rebecca , Welch Catherine , Paavilainen Eriikka
Published: June 2008

This article explores case study practices within a specific management discipline, that of international business. The authors contrast the case study debate in the general methodological literature to how this method is practiced within this particular scientific community. They review 135 case study—based articles published in four international business journals from 1995 to 2005 and 22 from 1975 to 1994, finding the disciplinary convention in these journals to be exploratory, interview-based multiple case studies, drawing on positivistic assumptions and cross-sectional designs. Alternative perspectives on the case study that the authors identify in the methodological literature have had little impact on this field. Even the most commonly cited methodological literature is not consistently followed. Given these limitations of the disciplinary convention, the authors argue for greater methodological pluralism in conducting case studies and provide suggestions for researchers seeking to adopt alternative case study traditions.
The Role of Emotions in Translating Perceptions of (In)Justice into Postcomplaint Behavioral Responses
Authors: Schoefer Klaus , Diamantopoulos Adamantios
Published: June 2008

There is widespread recognition in the literature that perceived (in)justice plays an important role in driving postcomplaint behavioral responses to service recovery experiences. However, this literature has evolved with little cross-reference to emotion research. This is problematic because much of psychology research has argued that emotion is the central mechanism through which a sense of (in)justice is translated into subsequent behavior. The current study seeks to address this issue by explicitly considering the role of perceived (in)justice in the elicitation of consumer emotions following service recovery encounters. Specifically, using survey data, the role of emotions in translating perceptions of (in)justice into subsequent postcomplaint behaviors (e.g., repurchase intention, negative word-of-mouth communication and third-party action) is investigated. Results provide empirical evidence for the contention that emotions act as mediators of the relationship between perceived justice and postcomplaint behaviors. These findings have significant implications for the theory and practice of service recovery management.