bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Performance of Blue Polymer Light-Emitting Diodes by a Self-Assembled Thin Interlayer
Authors: Kim Yun Ho , Lee Wonjoo , Cai Gangri , Baek Su Jin , Han Sung-Hwan , Lee Soo-Hyoung
Published: August 2008

High efficiency and long lifetime, blue polymer light-emitting diodes were obtained by adding a thin interlayer, which was fabricated by a layer-by-layer self-assembly technique between poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene)-poly(styrene sulfonic acid) (PEDOT:PSS) hole transporting and emissive
polymer layers in the device configuration of indium tin oxide (ITO)/PEDOT:PSS (65 nm)/interlayer (10∼30 nm)/emissive polymer (70 nm)/BaF2 (2 nm)/Ca (50 nm)/Al (300 nm). The interlayer, (PPV/PSS)n, consisted of self-assembled multilayers of the conjugated polymer,
poly (p-phenylenevinylene) (PPV), and the polyelectrolyte, poly (styrene sulfonic acid) (PSS). Electroluminescence (EL) characteristics such as luminescence and current efficiency of the devices were enhanced by the addition of the interlayer. Furthermore, the devices with interlayer showed
longer lifetime than those without interlayer. The maximum device performance was obtained from the device with (PPV/PSS)3 interlayer.
Convenient Synthesis and Characterization of Silane-Capped Polysiloles for the Fabrication of Luminescent OLED
Authors: Kim Myoung-Hee , Kim So-Yeun , Kim Bo-Hye , Woo Hee-Gweon , Park Sook-Hyun , Kim You-Jeong
Published: August 2008

Catalytic dehydropolymerization and subsequent silane-capping with R2 SiHCl (R = Ph, Me)of 1,1-dihydrotetraphenylsilole (1) using various inorganic hydrides produces electroluminescent silane-capped polysiloles (2)in high yield. The polymerization yield and
molecular weight increase in the order LiB[CH(CH3)C2H5]3H < NaB[CH(CH3)C2H5]3H < KB[CH(CH3)C2H5]3H. The molecular weights increase in the order Na[H2Al(OCH2CH2OCH3)2]
< KB[CH(CH3)C2H5]3H < LiB(C2H5)3H. The silane-capped polysiloles 2 emit at 521 nm and are electroluminescent at 522 nm. The fluorescence quantum yield of 2 in toluene is (1.67 ± 0.31) ×
10−2. The emission color is green and the maximum brightness of the device is 2,900 cd/m2 with a luminous efficiency of 0.69 lm/W. The substituent type of silyl end group showed no appreciable effect on the luminescent properties of polysilole backbone. Thus, the
silane-capped polysiloles are found to be a good material for OLED fabrication. A possible mechanism for the formation of 2 was suggested.
Annihilation of Photochemical Reactivity of Photo-Alignment Layer
Authors: Hong S. H. , Hwang Y. J. , Lee S. G. , Shin D. M.
Published: August 2008

The gas-polymer and liquid-polymer interfacial reactions of photosensitive polyimide can annihilate photo-reactive carbon–carbon double bonds, which remain after photo-alignment process. The annihilation processes dramatically affect voltage holding ratio and reorientation of
photo-active functional groups. Photochemical dimerizations were identified using UV-visible and FT-IR spectroscopy. Polyimide films containing cinnamate groups were irradiated by linear polarized ultra violet (LPUV) light. Schadt et al. claims that the photo-alignment results from the anisotropy
depletion of the cinnamate side chains as a consequence of the (2 + 2) cycloaddition reactions.1 The photoaligned polyimide induces the orientation of nematic liquid crystals perpendicular to the polarization axis.1,2 However, the un-reacted photo-sensitive functional
groups generate problems such as image sticking and reduced contrast ratio. Voltage holding ratio and photo-fading observed from photo-alignment layer can be dramatically improved by annihilation process of remnant photoreactive groups.
Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Imaging and Spectroscopy of a Single Viologen Molecule
Authors: Lee Nam-Suk , Yang Chang-Heon , Choi Won-Suk , Kwon Young-Soo
Published: August 2008

A low-temperature ultrahigh-vacuum scanning tunneling microscope (UHV-STM) was used to image viologen (N-methyl-N′-di (8-mercaptooctyl)-4,4′-bipyridinium; HSC8VC8SH) molecules and to perform local spectroscopic measurements on these molecules.
Self-assembly of viologen molecules was conducted on Au (111), which had been thermally deposited onto freshly cleaved, heated mica. Here, we demonstrate a novel SAM matrix appropriate for the isolation of viologen molecules composed of octanethiol (C8) in which HSC8VC8SH
was inserted at defects in the molecular lattice. The isolated single molecules of viologen inserted in the SAM matrix were observed as protrusions in STM topography using a constant current mode. STM images at 298 K showed protrusions with a topographic height of about 2.71 nm (HSC8VC8SH)
with viologen molecules that self-assembled on the substrate. The current–voltage (I–V) characteristics were measured while the electrical properties of the formed monolayer were scanned using scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS). We found the high peak current-like
rectification at +1.14 V (HSC8VC8SH). The rectification ratios, RR = J (at +2.5 V)/J (at −2.5 V), are in the range of 4.47.
Anisotropic Nano-Imprinting Technique for Fabricating a Patterned Optical Film of a Liquid Crystalline Polymer
Authors: Lim Yong-Woon , Kwak Chang-Hwan , Lee Sin-Doo
Published: August 2008

We developed an anisotropic nano-imprinting technique, which combines the exposure of ultraviolet light, to fabricate a patterned optical film of a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP). The nano-imprinted LCP film has two-fold functionality of an in-cell retarder and an alignment layer
of liquid crystal (LC) molecules. In addition to the geometrically generated microgrooves, the anisotropic surface interactions of the LCP acquired at a nano-scale level during the imprinting process results in the LC alignment on the patterned LCP film without any surface treatment. The nano-imprinted,
quarter wave LCP was implemented into a LC cell which produces half-wave retardation under crossed polarizers.
Synthesis of Artificial Polymeric Nanopillars for Clean and Reusable Adhesives
Authors: Kim Sanghyo , Kustandi Tanu Suryadi , Yi Dong Kee
Published: August 2008

We present a simple and scalable approach to fabricate nanopillars structure using combined techniques of colloidal nanolithography, and chemical etching to mimic the nanopillars of gecko foot-hairs. The resulting polymeric nanopillar structure showed nanoscopic adhesion, superhydrophobic,
and easy cleaning properties. The lateral dimension of nanopillars as small as 150 nm and aspect ratio as high as 10:1 have been achieved without lateral collapse between neighboring pillars. The method allows both fabrication of synthetic structures in wafer scale area and direct integration
of flexible membrane to assist the array of nanohairs in making intimate contact with the uneven surfaces. Our results indicate that a single nanohair exhibit a mean adhesive force of 1.8 nN. In the macroscopic scale, we demonstrate that the nanostructured surface can adhere firmly to a smooth
glass substrate.
Atomic Layer Deposition of Undoped and Al-Doped ZnO Thin Films Usingthe Zn Alkoxide Precursor Methylzinc Isopropoxide
Authors: An Ki-Seok , Cho Wontae , Lee Byung Kook , Lee Sun Sook , Kim Chang Gyoun
Published: August 2008

Undoped and Al-doped ZnO thin films have been prepared by atomic layer deposition (ALD) using the Zn precursor methylzinc isopropoxide [MZI, (CH3)Zn(OCH(CH3)2)] with water (H2O). Dimethylaluminum isopropoxide (DMAI) was used as an Al precursor.
The self-limiting ALD process via alternate surface reactions of MZI and H2O was confirmed by thickness measurements of the ZnO films with varying MZI supply time and numbers of MZI-H2O ALD cycles. Under optimal reaction conditions, the growth rate of the ZnO films was
1.9∼2.0 Å/cycle in the substrate temperature range of 160∼200 °C and the maximum growth rate reached about 2.58 Å/cycle at 240 °C. Room temperature photoluminescence (PL) measurements revealed a strong free excitonic peak at 3.27 eV with almost negligible deep level
emission. Resistivities of ZnO films were measured to be 5 × 10−3 ∼3.2 × 10−3 Ωcm depending on the substrate temperature. By Al-doping, the resistivity was minimized to ∼1 35 × 10−4 Ωcm.
Ordering Transitions of Semifluorinated Diblock Copolymers
Authors: Lee Min Young , Kim Seung Ho , Kim Jong Tae , Kim Sok Won , Lim Kwon Taek
Published: August 2008

A series of diblock copolymers consisting of a hydrophilic polyethylene oxide (PEO) and a hydrophobic poly(1H,1H-dihydroperfluorooctyl methacrylate) (PDHFOMA) block were synthesized with different chain lengths for application to self-assembled nanopatterning structures. The morphology
of poly(DHFOMA5k-b-EO5k), poly(DHFOMA10k-b-EO10k), and poly(DHFOMA20k-b-EO20k) spin cast from micellar solution in chloroform at room temperature were spherical with average diameter of 12 nm, 17 nm and
26 nm, respectively by TEM analysis. The spherical structures were reorganized to different shapes with thermodynamically stable morphologies upon annealing above glass transition temperature (Tg). PDHFOMA block domains changed to well ordered cylindrical domains, inversed
continuous phase, and large composite spherical domains for 5 k, 10 k, and 20 k block copolymer, respectively.
Controllable Dimension of ZnO Nanowalls on GaN/c-Al2O3 Substrate by Vapor Phase Epitaxy Method
Authors: Song W. Y. , Shin T. I. , Kang S. M. , Kim S.-W. , Yang J. H. , Park M. H. , Yang C. W. , Yoon D. H.
Published: August 2008

Vertically well-aligned ZnO nanowalls were successfully synthesized at 950–1050 °C. Ar gas was introduced into the furnace at a flow rate of 2000–2500 sccm. An Au thin film with a thickness of 3 nm was used as a catalyst. The ZnO nanowalls were successfully grown on
the substrate and most of them had nearly the same thickness and were oriented perpendicular to the substrate. The morphology and chemical composition of the ZnO nanowalls were examined as a function of the growth conditions examined. It was found that the grown ZnO nanowalls have a single-crystalline
hexagonal structure and preferred c-axis growth orientation based on the X-ray diffraction and higher-solution transmission electron microscope measurements. The room temperature photoluminescence showed a strong free-exciton emission band with negligible deep level emission, indicating
the high optical property of our ZnO nanowall samples.
Heterojunction of Hydrophobic Poly(1,4-phenylenevinylene) and Hydrophilic PEDOT:PSS on Hydrophilic CdS Nanoparticles
Authors: Lee Wonjoo , Baek Su Jin , Min Sun Ki , Cai Gangri , Lee Joong Ki , Cho Byung Won , Lee Soo-Hyoung , Han Sung-Hwan
Published: August 2008

Heterojunction of hydrophobic poly(1,4-phenylenevinylene) (PPV) on hydrophilic CdS nanoparticles was successfully prepared by the multi-layering of poly(p-xylene tetrahydrothiophenium chloride) (pre-PPV: precursor of PPV polymer) and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrene
sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) in an aqueous solution followed by a thermal treatment. CdS nanoparticles thin films were prepared on tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) by a chemical-bath-deposition method. The CdS surface was hydrophilic with low water contact angle of 15°. Positively charged and water-soluble
pre-PPV was used to form multilayers with PEDOT:PSS by a layer-by-layer deposition method. Pre-PPV is easily converted to conjugated PPV polymer by a thermal treatment. The CdS nanoparticles-(PPV/PEDOT:PSS) multilayer films constitute efficient acceptor-sensitizer dyad systems, which generate
a photocurrent of 2,660 nA/cm2 under the air mass (AM) 1.5 conditions (I = 100 mW/cm2) for sample with 4.5 bilayers.
Preparation of Silver Nanoparticles and Antibiotic Test of Its Polycarbonate Films Composite
Authors: Lee Sang Hyun , Sung Kiwhan , Chung Taek-Mo , Lee Sung-Goo , Min Kyung Dae , Koo Sangman , Kim Chang Gyoun
Published: August 2008

General synthetic methods for silver nanoparticles are reduction of metal salt in aqueous solution or alcoholic solution. However, the preparation of silver nanoparticles in organic solvent is rarely reported. The most common preparation methods for silver nanoparticles in organic solvent
are based on transfer of nanoparticles from aqueous phase to organic phase by phase transfer agent. We describe an easy synthetic method to prepare dispersed silver nanoparticles (∼10 nm)by reduction of silver cation in organic solvent such as toluene using a reducing agent and a capping
agent. The synthesized silver nanoparticles and polycarbonate were mixed and molded to prepare a new composite in methylene chloride. The composite was tested to investigate antifungal effect by coliform (Escherichia coil ATCC 25922). The antifungal effect of the composite reached high
after 24 h (99.9999%). The composite and the silver nanoparticles have been characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and inductively coupled plasma (ICP).
High Efficient White Organic Light-Emitting Diodes Using BCzVBi as Blue Fluorescent Dopant
Authors: Kim You-Hyun , Lee Su-Hwan , Yoon Hyun-Soo , Choi Jae-Yoon , Shin Sung Sik , Chae Soo Joh , Seo Ji-Hoon , Seo Ji-Hyun , Kim Young-Kwan , Kim Woo-Young
Published: August 2008

Efficiency improvement and color optimization of white organic light-emitting diodes (WOLEDs) were achieved via employing blue host DPVBi doped with blue fluorescent, BCzVBi. The structure of high efficient WOLED device was composed of ITO/NPB/DPVBi:BCzVBi-6%/MADN:DCM2-0.5%/Bphen/Liq/Al.
WOLED doped by blue fluorescent BCzVBi exhibits 6.19 cd/A of luminous efficiency and 15400 cd/m2 of maximum luminescence. It also performs 480 cd/m2 of luminance at 5.7 V and 15,400 cd/m2 at 12.9 V with CIEx,y coordinates of (0.33, 0.32) and
(0.32, 0.32), respectively. Hole carrier and energy transfer from DPVBi to BCzVBi are proposed to explain the observed phenomena.
New Amorphous Hole Blocking Materials for High Efficiency OLEDs
Authors: Jung Sung Ouk , Park Jong-Won , Kang Dong Min , Kim Jeong-Sik , Park Sung-Jin , Kang Pengtao , Oh Hyoung-Yun , Yang Jung-Hwan , Kim Yun-Hi , Kwon Soon-Ki
Published: August 2008

Two new amorphous molecular materials, 2,5-bis(2′,5′-dimethyl-4-triphenylsilyl-phenyl)-[1,3,4]oxadiazole (BDTSO) and 2,5-bis(2′,5′-dimethyl-4-triphenylsilyl-phenyl)-[1,3,4]thiadiazole (BDTST) were synthesized and investigated as hole blocking materials (HBM)
for organic light-emitting diodes. The efficiency of electroluminescent device was improved by using BDTSO instead of BAlq. The current and power efficiency of the device using BDTSO as HBM is 39.6 cd/A and 13.1 lm/W at 10 mA/cm2, respectively, which is higher compared to the same
values for devices using BDTST and BAq which are typically used as HBM.
Novel Fluoranthene Structure for Deep-Blue Organic Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Kim Soo-Kang , Park Jong-Wook
Published: August 2008

As a new fluoranthene derivative, a synthesis of benzo[k]fluoranthene was suggested, so new blue emitting materials, 7,12-diphenylbenzo[k]fluoranthene [DPBF] and 7,8,10-triphenylfluoranthene [TPF] were synthesized. PLmax values of both compounds showed the wavelengths of
458 nm (TPF) and 434 nm, 453 nm (DPBF) that are in blue region. ELmax wavelength of the device using DPBF as an emitting layer was 436 and 454 nm in the deep-blue region, which are similar values with PL. The device that used DPBF as an emitting layer showed high efficiency of 2.11
cd/A and the excellent color coordinate value of (0.161, 0.131) in deep-blue region.
Application of Phthalocyanine Derivatives as Hole Transporting Layer to Organic Light Emitting Devices
Authors: Jung Sin Hye , Ha Chang-Sik
Published: August 2008

We fabricated organic light emitting devices (OLEDs) with thermally stable metal tetra-aminophthalocyanine (MT4APc, where M is Co, Cu, or Zn) dispersed in poly(bisphenol A-co-4-nitrophthalic anhydride-co-1,3-phenylenediamine) (polyetherimide, PEI) or 2,2-bis(3,4-dicarboxy-phenyl) hexafluoroisopropane
dianhydride-2,4,5,6-trimethyl-1,4-phenylene-diamine (6FDA-4MPDA) polyimide (PI) as a hole transporting layer (HTL). The relative efficiency of the MT4APc as a HTL was found to be in the order CuT4APc > CoT4APc ≈ TPD > ZnT4APc. It was found that the 6FDA-4MPDA PI as a matrix of HTL
exhibited better hole transporting properties than PEI.
Synthesis of a New Polymeric Host Material for Efficient Organic Electro-Phosphorescent Devices
Authors: Hwang Do-Hoon , Park Moo-Jin , Eom Jae-Hoon , Shim Hong Ku , Lee Seongtaek , Yang Nam Choul , Lian Duan , Suh Min Chul , Chin Byung Doo
Published: August 2008

We have synthesized a new polymeric host material for phosphorescent dyes, which can be used in phosphorescent light-emitting layers. An alternating copolymer, composed of N-alkylcarbazole and tetramethylbenzene units was synthesized through the Suzuki coupling reaction. We fabricated
electro-phosphorescent devices using the synthesized polymeric host doped with solution-processible green and red phosphorescent dyes. Light-emitting devices have an ITO/PEDOT/polymer + dopant/Balq3/Alq3/LiF/Al configuration. The device containing one of two studied green
dopants (designated as green 1) in the polymeric host showed the best performance, with a maximum luminous efficiency of 29 cd/A. A thin film of this polymeric was successfully patterned by laser-induced thermal imaging (LITI), and an electro-phosphorescent device was fabricated using the
patterned film. This patterned device showed performance characteristics similar to those of a spin-coated device.
Synthesis and Photochromic Properties of Poly(4-vinylpyridine-co-styrene) with Pendant Spiroxazine Moieties
Authors: Gal Yeong-Soon , Lee Won-Chul , Lyoo Won Seok , Jin Sung-Ho , Lim Kwon Taek , Kim Sung-Hoon
Published: August 2008

An ionic polymer with pendant photochromic moieties was prepared by the reaction of poly(4-vinylpyridine-co-styrene) and 1,3,3-trimethyl-6′-bromohexyloxyspiro[2H]-indol-2,3′-[3H]-naphth[2,1-b][1,4]oxazine. The photochromic reaction in question is caused by the reversible
heterolytic cleavage of the C(spiro)—O bond under UV irradiation, yielding the colored form that can return to the colorless form by ring closure under visible light irradiation or in dark. The visible range absorption of the corresponding polymer increased gradually by UV irradiation
which is ascribed to the generation of the open merocyanine form from the closed spiro form. The ionic conductivity of polymer increased upon UV irradiation, which brought about the generation of zwitterions form, and subsequently decreased in dark, which brought about the generation of closed
spiro form. Sufficient reversibility was found in this polymer and this response was completely synchronized with that in the absorbance changes.
3D Image Recording on Photopolymer Films Containing Molecular Composites of a New s-Triazine Monomer and Acrylate Monomer by Dual Photopolymerization
Authors: Kim Jeonghun , Sarwade Bhimrao D. , Oh Hyunjin , Kim Eunkyoung , Lee Sang-Goo
Published: August 2008

Three dimensional (3D) image recording on photopolymer film was explored using a mixture of s-triazine diepoxy (SEP) and ethylene glycol phenyl ether acrylate (PA) as a monomer to induce cationic and radical polymerization during the holographic recording. The photopolymer films were
sensitive to a visible light source and polymerized upon excitation with a visible laser. 3D image was recorded on the photopolymer film by holographic recording using a 491 nm laser. The film containing a molecular composite of SEP and PA showed high diffraction efficiency via dual photo
polymerization. Within 10 min of recording the image formation was vivid. In this way 3D screw and a letter image with large viewing angle were obtained onto the photopolymer film. The images were stable for longer than 3 month at RT and 5 hr at 85 °C, when read by a visible light.
Patterned Array of Nanoparticles on Substrates via Contact Printing Method with CNTs/AAO Stamp
Authors: Kim Youn-Su , Ahn Hyo-Jin , Nam Sang Hoon , Lee Sang Ho , Shim Hee-Sang , Kim Won Bae
Published: August 2008

Patterned arrays of Fe oxide nanoparticles were transferred via contact printing method on a substrate surface using carbon nanotubes embedded in anodic aluminum oxide (CNTs/AAO) as a stamp, in which vertically aligned CNTs in hexagonally patterned array was first fabricated by chemical
vapor deposition into the AAO, followed by a partial chemical etching to expose the CNTs from the AAO. Fe precursor inked CNTs stamp was contact-printed on a Pt-coated Si substrate, and after heat treatment at 200 °C, patterned array of Fe oxide nanoparticles with ca. 80 nm of diameter
and ca. 120 nm of inter-distance between the nanoparticles was consequently obtained.
Fabrication of Thin Film Titania with Nanopores, Nanopoles, and Nanopipes by Nanoporous Alumina Template
Authors: Her Hyun-Jung , Kim Jung-Min , Kang C. J. , Kim Yong-Sang
Published: August 2008

We demonstrate the formation of thin film titania (TiO2) with a dense array of nanopores, nanopoles, and nanopipes. The heights of pores, poles, and pipes were approximately 130 nm, 180 nm, and 200 nm, respectively. The aspect ratios of these three structures were approximated
between 2 and 3. In order to obtain titania thin films, a nanoporous alumina (Al2O3) template was fabricated by performing a two-step anodization process. The spin-coated titania films were uniformly patterned by a nanoimprinting lithography technique with a textured
poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) mold or nanoporous alumina template. The titania films are very useful for solar cells, photocatalytic and sensing applications, in which nano-structuring of surfaces with controlled dimensions is vital.
A Bipodal-Tethered Porphyrin for Attachment to Silicon Surfaces in Studies of Molecular Information Storage
Authors: Schmidt Izabela , Jiao Jieying , Bocian David F. , Lindsey Jonathan S.
Published: August 2008

An approach for molecular information storage entails use of redox-active molecules attached to an electroactive surface. Understanding the structural features that give rise to robust molecular monolayers with high charge density is an essential objective. Toward this goal, a zinc-porphyrin
bearing an all-carbon bipodal tether, 5-(1,6-heptadien-4-yl)-15-phenyl-10,20-di-p-tolylporphinatozinc(II), has been synthesized by the reaction of a dipyrromethane and a dipyrromethane-1,9-dicarbinol. The porphyrin was attached to Si(100) via a high temperature procedure. The resulting
molecular monolayers exhibited surface coverages, adsorption geometries, electron-transfer rates, and stabilities under repeated electrochemical cycling that are similar to those obtained with monopodal carbon tethers. The observation that the bipodal anchor does not provide enhanced stability
is surprising given that attachment is achieved via two versus one covalent linkage.
Sensitivity of Hybrid ENSO Models to Unresolved Atmospheric Variability
Authors: Zavala-Garay J. , Zhang C. , Moore A. M. , Wittenberg A. T. , Harrison M. J. , Rosati A. , Vialard Jérôme , Kleeman R.
Published: August 2008

A common practice in the design of forecast models for ENSO is to couple ocean general circulation models to simple atmospheric models. Therefore, by construction these models (known as hybrid ENSO models) do not resolve various kinds of atmospheric variability [e.g., the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) and westerly wind bursts] that are often regarded as “unwanted noise.” In this work the sensitivity of three hybrid ENSO models to this unresolved atmospheric variability is studied. The hybrid coupled models were tuned to be asymptotically stable and the magnitude, and spatial and temporal structure of the unresolved variability was extracted from observations. The results suggest that this neglected variability can add an important piece of realism and forecast skill to the hybrid models. The models were found to respond linearly to the low-frequency part of the neglected atmospheric variability, in agreement with previous findings with intermediate models. While the wind anomalies associated with the MJO typically explain a small fraction of the unresolved variability, a large fraction of the interannual variability can be excited by this forcing. A large correlation was found between interannual anomalies of Kelvin waves forced by the intraseasonal MJO and the Kelvin waves forced by the low-frequency part of the MJO. That is, in years when the MJO tends to be more active it also produces a larger low-frequency contribution, which can then resonate with the large-scale coupled system. Other kinds of atmospheric variability not related to the MJO can also produce interannual anomalies in the hybrid models. However, when projected on the characteristics of Kelvin waves, no clear correlation between its low-frequency content and its intraseasonal activity was found. This suggests that understanding the mechanisms by which the intraseasonal MJO interacts with the ocean to modulate its low-frequency content may help to better to predict ENSO variability.
Neural Network Model to Predict a Storm Surge
Authors: de Oliveira Marilia M. F. , Ebecken Nelson Francisco F. , de Oliveira Jorge Luiz Fernandes , de Azevedo Santos Isimar
Published: August 2008

The southeastern coast of Brazil is frequently affected by meteorological disturbances such as cold fronts, which are sometimes associated with intense extratropical cyclones. These disturbances cause oscillations on the sea surface, generating low-frequency motions. The relationship of these meteorologically driven forces in low frequency to the storm-surge event is investigated in this work. A method to predict coastal sea level variations related to meteorological events that use a neural network model (NNM) is presented here. Pressure and wind values from NCEP–NCAR reanalysis data and tide gauge time series from the Cananéia reference station in São Paulo State, Brazil, were used to analyze the relationship between these variables and to use them as input to the model. Meteorological influences in the sea level fluctuations can be verified by filtering the astronomical tide frequencies for periods lower than tidal cycles (periods higher than 24 h). Thus, a low-pass filter was applied in the tide gauge and meteorological time series for periods lower than tides to identify more readily the interactions between coastal sea level response and atmospheric-driven forces. Statistical analyses on time and frequency domain were used. Maxima correlations and coherence between the low-frequency sea level and meteorological series could be defined using the time lag of the NNM input variables. The model was tested for 6-, 12-, 18-, and 24-hourly forecasts, and the results were compared with filtered sea level values. The results show that this model is able to capture the effects of atmospheric and oceanic interactions. It can be considered to be an efficient model for predicting the nontidal residuals and can effectively complement the standard constant harmonic analysis model. A case study of a storm that impacted coastal areas of southeastern Brazil in March 1998 was analyzed and indicates that the neural network model can be effectively utilized in the Cananéia region.
Reinventing human resource management: Business partners, internal consultants and the limits to professionalization
Authors: Wright Christopher
Published: August 2008

The status of human resource management (HRM) and its standing as a managerial profession has been a recurring concern for practitioners over time. In recent years, a normative discourse has developed which asserts that the path to improved status for HR `professionals' involves reinvention of their role as `business partners' and `internal consultants' promoting enterprise competitiveness. This article examines how HR managers interpret this new role and whether the internalization of this model results in an increase in professional identity. The findings suggest that while many gain greater self-esteem and organizational status from the identity and role of business partner/internal consultant, this does not equate to a broader identity as a member of an HR `profession'. Two developments are central here. First, the focus on the business partner/ internal consultancy role has served to undermine any pretence to a unitary and cohesive occupational identity, as the bifurcation between routine transactional and strategic transformational activities encourages competition within the HR profession between different sub-groupings. Second, this strategy of redefinition has reduced the entry barriers demarcating HR activities and facilitated the entry of new occupational groups and rival managerial specialisms.
Cultural Psychology and Qualitative Methodology: Scientific and Political Considerations
Authors: Ratner Carl
Published: August 2008

An important feature of cultural psychology is its embrace of qualitative methodology. This methodology distinguishes cultural psychology from cross-cultural psychology, which embraces positivistic methodology. It is important to assess the use of qualitative methodology by cultural psychologists. However, cultural psychology consists of diverse theoretical perspectives which utilize qualitative methods differently. This article articulates a typology of qualitative research methodologies that have been used in conjunction with cultural-psychological approaches. The typology compares macro and micro theories of cultural psychology, and the ways in which they utilize formal and informal qualitative methodology. Examples of research illustrate each approach. Social science approaches are grounded in political assumptions and have political implications. I shall elucidate the politics of cultural-psychological theories and methodologies in order to enrich their description and explanation.
Commentary: Culturally Sensitive Treatments: Need for an Organizing Framework
Authors: Cardemil Esteban V.
Published: August 2008

To date, descriptions of culturally sensitive therapies have insufficiently acknowledged the heterogeneity of perspectives on the role of culture in therapy. The generally homogeneous manner in which advocates of culturally sensitive therapies have described this work has likely contributed to the mainstream's slow acceptance of the importance of culture. In this article, I propose an organizing framework that may help recognize the diversity of viewpoints regarding what constitutes culturally sensitive therapy. It is my hope that this framework, along with critical self-evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the various perspectives, will lead to more rapid incorporation of culture across treatments.
Finding space in the field of masculinity
Authors: Coles Tony
Published: August 2008

Hegemonic masculinity as a theoretical concept separates those men in a dominant position who are able to live up to the cultural ideal and attain hegemonic status from those who are subordinated and marginalized by it. Yet men's lived experiences of masculinity are not necessarily of being subordinated by the cultural ideal. Many men feel comfortable with their masculine identities despite an inability to fit the hegemonic ideal. Based on qualitative empirical research, this article identifies the strategies men use to successfully negotiate masculinities over the life course, and that enable men to adopt dominant masculinities in their everyday lived experiences while ultimately being subordinated in relation to the culturally dominant, hegemonic masculine ideal. Such strategies include reformulating definitions of masculinity, emphasizing maleness as innately masculine, and operating in subfields in the field of masculinity where the capital that men own is valued and their position dominant in relation to other men.
`Neo-mateship' in the 21st century
Authors: Butera Karina J.
Published: August 2008

This article argues that `traditional mateship', as the everyday practice of men's same-sex friendships, is a dying mode of relating in Australian culture. Using Goffman's dramaturgical model, the views of three generations of men are used to qualitatively explore three proposed sites of transformation in men's same-sex friendships. First, the shift from unquestioning group loyalty to individualistic, transient and contingent relationship choice; second, the move from guarded levels of disclosure to open expressiveness and willingness to display vulnerability; and finally the evolution from expecting and giving only practical support to providing both practical and emotional support. The narratives of the middle-aged cohort are used to illustrate the various role-distance strategies that were used to resist and rework gender scripts. The article concludes that, although the parameters of acceptable gendered behaviours in Australian men's friendships are expanding, they have not yet reached the breadth and depth found in `pure' friendships, but could be described as a new type of mateship: neo-mateship.
The sociology of policy-making in the modern state
Authors: Bessant Judith
Published: August 2008

The article asks how we can best understand policy-making processes, and how a sociology of policy-making might proceed. Specific consideration is given to policy intent and how that can be known given the collective nature of policy-making and the assumption that intent is what individuals rather than groups possess. I inquire into various sociologies of social systems and social action as well as liberal humanist ideas about the individual and rational action, asking what they offer for understanding policy intent. The contributions of the post-foundationalists and network theories are also examined in this light. Attention is given to the work of Norbert Elias, and it is argued that his `personal pronouns as figurational model' in conjunction with discourse analysis provides a basis for developing a sociology of policy-making that acknowledges human agency and the collective and social nature of policy-making.
Quality of life and inflammation in exacerbations of bronchiectasis
Authors: Courtney JM , Kelly MG , Watt A , Garske L , Bradley J , Ennis M , Elborn JS
Published: August 2008

Patients with bronchiectasis often have impaired quality of life (QoL), which deteriorates with exacerbations. The aim of this study was to investigate changes in QoL and how these were influenced by changes in airway physiology and inflammation in patients with bronchiectasis before and after resolution of an exacerbation. Sputum induction and a QoL questionnaire were undertaken on the first day, day 14, and 4 weeks after completion of intravenous antibiotics (day 42). Eighteen patients (12 female) were recruited, median (IQ range) age of 54 (47–60) years. There was a trend towards an improvement in lung function from visit 1 to visit 2, but this was not statistically significant. C-reactive protein (CRP) [mean (SEM)] reduced between visit 1 and visit 2 [55.4 (21.5) vs 9.4 (3.1) mg/L, P = 0.03] but did not increase significantly on visit 3 [44.4 (32.9) mg/L, P = 0.27]. The median (interquartile range) sputum cell count (×106 cells/g of sputum) decreased from visit 1 to visit 2 [21.6 (11.8–37.6)–13.3 (6.7–22.9) × 106 cells/g, respectively, P = 0.008] and increased from visit 2 to visit 3 [26.3 (14.1–33.6) × 106 cells/g, P = 0.03]. All soluble markers of inflammation significantly reduced from visit 1 to visit 2 but increased on visit 3 with the exception of TNF-α. Regarding QoL, three of the four domains (dyspnoea, emotional, mastery) significantly improved from visit 1 to visit 2 but did not change between visit 2 and visit 3. The improvements in QoL scores could not be explained by the improvements in lung function or inflammatory markers.
Anabolic steroids in COPD: a review and preliminary results of a randomized trial
Authors: Sharma S , Arneja A , McLean L , Duerksen D , Leslie W , Sciberras D , Lertzman M
Published: August 2008

Patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) commonly develop weight loss, muscle wasting, and consequently poor survival. Nutritional supplementation and anabolic steroids increase lean body mass, improve muscle strength, and survival in patients enrolled in comprehensive rehabilitation programs. Whether anabolic steroids are effective outside an intensive rehabilitation program is not known. We conducted a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 16-week trial to study the benefits of anabolic steroids in patients with severe COPD who did not participate in a structured rehabilitation program. Biweekly intramuscular injections of either the drug (nandrolone decanoate) or placebo were administered. Sixteen patients with severe COPD were randomized to either placebo or nandrolone decanoate. The placebo group weighed 55.32 ± 11.33 kg at baseline and 54.15 ± 10.80 kg at 16 weeks; the treatment group weighed 68.80 ± 6.58 at baseline and 67.92 ± 6.73 at 16 weeks. Lean body mass remained unchanged, 71 ± 6 vs. 71 ± 7 kg in placebo group and 67 ± 7 vs. 67 ± 7 in treatment group, at baseline and 16 weeks respectively. The distance walked on 6 min was unchanged at baseline, 8 weeks, and 16 weeks in placebo (291.17 ± 134.83, 282.42 ± 115.39, 286.00 ± 82.63 m) and treatment groups (336.13 ± 127.59, 364.83 ± 146.99, 327.00 ± 173.73 m). No improvement occurred in forced expiratory volume in one second, forced vital capacity, maximal inspiratory pressure, maximal expiratory pressure, VO2 max or 6-min walk distance or health related quality of life. Administration of anabolic steroids (nandrolone decanoate) outside a dedicated rehabilitation program did not lead to either weight gain, improvement in physiological function, or better quality of life in patients with severe COPD.
A Modified Time-Domain Approach for Modelling the Ultrasound Signal from Blood-Flow
Authors: Hajjam Arash , Behnam Hamid
Published: August 2008

In this paper, we model the ultrasound signal produced by blood-flow through an artery. Our model assumes a number of moving scatterers (red-blood cells), which are randomly distributed in the vessel. The Doppler effect is then introduced by changing the received signal shape in accordance with a calculated value gained from the speed of the scatterers. Variations in the shape of the Doppler spectrum during the cardiac cycle were simulated by including spectrum shape variations as an input to the model. Our proposed model is validated and shown to produce promising results when compared to previous studies.
To Boldly Go Where None Have Gone Before in My NHS Trust: Sonographer Performed Ultrasound-guided Breast Biopsy
Authors: Baskerville Caroline
Published: August 2008

This article recounts a personal journey of experience learning the art of ultrasound-guided needle core biopsy of the breast. I have now been performing these for three years having gained a formal academic qualification in 2004. By the time you read this article, I will have completed my third annual outcome audit.
Real-time Tissue Elastography
Authors: Dowell Barbara
Published: August 2008

Real-time tissue elastography is an emerging diagnostic tool that uses ultrasound to differentiate between hard and soft tissue. Typically, gentle freehand compression is used to apply 'stress' to tissue and the resulting 'strain' or displacement, is displayed as a colour overlay on a conventional B-mode ultrasound image. Elastography has the potential to increase examination specificity and thus reduce the need for diagnostic invasive procedures. Second generation technology, which quantifies strain characteristics, is bringing further improvements in diagnostic accuracy. Real-time tissue elastography has proven applications in breast, prostate, thyroid and pancreatic disease and where diagnostic biopsy is indicated, elastography allows more accurate localisation and targeting of lesions. This paper briefly reviews the underlying principles of the technique and outlines the current clinical applications.
When FAST is a FAFF: is FAST Scanning Useful in Non-Trauma Patients?
Authors: Maitra Sohom , Jarman Robert D. , Halford Neil W. , Richards Simon P.
Published: August 2008

Aim/Background: Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) has evolved into a common point-of-care diagnostic investigation in UK Emergency Departments (ED). Its role in the management of blunt abdominal trauma is well recognised. The aim of this study was to determine if the FAST scan can play a role in the management of non-traumatic patients.

Method: A literature review was performed with the emphasis on the use of FAST scanning in the non-trauma setting.

Results: In the acutely ill, undifferentiated, septic or decompensated patient, a Focused Assessment for Free Fluid (FAFF) scan may be of benefit, as a goal-directed investigation, to search for free fluid as an indicator of underlying disease source. The presence of free fluid in the non traumatised peritoneum implies primary or secondary intra-abdominal pathology requiring urgent specialist review and management. A FAFF scan can also play a role in the management of patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm, ectopic pregnancy and some thoracic conditions.

Conclusion: There is mounting evidence to support the efficacy of using such focused ultrasound, with its 'rule-in' high specificity, for helping reduce the potential differential diagnoses, at an early stage, in critically ill patients. We advocate the use of the term FAFF and not FAST, when emergency ultrasound is applied to non-traumatic clinical cases. We advise its liberal use by accredited clinicians, as part of a structured approach to the assessment of the undifferentiated, unwell patient presenting to emergency departments - especially those in shock or critically ill.
Mast cells and mastocytosis
Authors: Metcalfe Dean D.
Published: August 2008

Mast cells have been recognized for well over 100 years. With time, human mast cells have been documented to originate from CD34+ cells, and have been implicated in host responses in both innate and acquired immunity. In clinical immunology, they are recognized for their central role in IgE-mediated degranulation and allergic inflammation by virtue of their expression of the high-affinity receptor for IgE and release of potent proinflammatory mediators. In hematology, the clinical disease of mastocytosis is characterized by a pathologic increase of mast cells in tissues, often associated with mutations in KIT, the receptor for stem cell factor. More recently, and with increased understanding of how human mast cells are activated through receptors including the high-affinity receptor for IgE and KIT, specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors have been identified with the potential to interrupt signaling pathways and thus limit the proliferation of mast cells as well as their activation through immunoglobulin receptors.
The phagocytes: neutrophils and monocytes
Authors: Dale David C. , Boxer Laurence , Liles W. Conrad
Published: August 2008

The production and deployment of phagocytes are central functions of the hematopoietic system. In the 1950s, radioisotopic studies demonstrated the high prodution rate and short lifespan of neutrophils and allowed researchers to follow the monocytes as they moved from the marrow through the blood to become tissue macrophages, histiocytes, and dendritic cells. Subsequently, the discovery of the colony-stimulating factors greatly improved understanding the regulation of phagocyte production. The discovery of the microbicidal myeloperoxidase-H2O2-halide system and the importance of NADPH oxidase to the generation of H2O2 also stimulated intense interest in phagocyte disorders. More recent research has focused on membrane receptors and the dynamics of the responses of phagocytes to external factors including immunoglobulins, complement proteins, cytokines, chemokines, integrins, and selectins. Phagocytes express toll-like receptors that aid in the clearance of a wide range of microbial pathogens and their products. Phagocytes are also important sources of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, thus participating in host defenses through a variety of mechanisms. Over the last 50 years, many genetic and molecular disorders of phagocytes have been identified, leading to improved diagnosis and treatment of conditions which predispose patients to the risk of recurrent fevers and infectious diseases.
Transcriptional responses of Arabidopsis thaliana plants to As (V) stress
Authors: Abercrombie Jason M , Halfhill Matthew D , Ranjan Priya , Rao Murali R , Saxton Arnold M , Yuan Joshua S , Stewart C Neal
Published: August 2008

Background

Arsenic is toxic to plants and a common environmental pollutant. There is a strong chemical similarity between arsenate [As (V)] and phosphate (Pi). Whole genome oligonucleotide microarrays were employed to investigate the transcriptional responses ofArabidopsis thalianaplants to As (V) stress.

Results

Antioxidant-related genes (i.e. coding for superoxide dismutases and peroxidases) play prominent roles in response to arsenate. The microarray experiment revealed induction of chloroplast Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD) (at2g28190), Cu/Zn SOD (at1g08830), as well as an SOD copper chaperone (at1g12520). On the other hand, Fe SODs were strongly repressed in response to As (V) stress. Non-parametric rank product statistics were used to detect differentially expressed genes. Arsenate stress resulted in the repression of numerous genes known to be induced by phosphate starvation. These observations were confirmed with qRT-PCR and SOD activity assays.

Conclusion

Microarray data suggest that As (V) induces genes involved in response to oxidative stress and represses transcription of genes induced by phosphate starvation. This study implicates As (V) as a phosphate mimic in the cell by repressing genes normally induced when available phosphate is scarce. Most importantly, these data reveal that arsenate stress affects the expression of several genes with little or unknown biological functions, thereby providing new putative gene targets for future research.
Effect of infant feeding on maternal body composition
Authors: Hatsu Irene E , McDougald Dawn M , Anderson Alex K
Published: August 2008

Background

Women gain total body weight and accrue body fat during pregnancy. Breastfeeding has been suggested as an efficient means of promoting postpartum weight loss due to its high energy cost. We investigated the effect of infant feeding mode on maternal body composition.

Methods

This study evaluated maternal weight and percent body fat changes in exclusively breastfeeding versus mixed feeding mothers during the first 12 weeks postpartum using the BOD POD. Twenty four mothers aged 19 – 42 years were studied. Participants were recruited from Athens-Clarke County and surrounding areas of the State of Georgia, USA. The study was conducted between November 2005 and December 2006.

Results

Prepregnancy weight was higher in mixed feeding mothers than in exclusively breastfeeding mothers (68.4 kg vs. 61.4 kg) but the difference was not statistically significant. At 12 weeks postpartum, exclusively breastfeeding mothers had lost more total body weight than mixed feeding mothers (4.41 ± 4.10 kg versus 2.79 ± 3.09 kg; p = 0.072). There was no significant difference in fat weight change between the two groups (4.38 ± 2.06 kg versus 4.17 ± 2.63 kg). However, mixed feeding mothers lost slightly more percent body fat than exclusively breastfeeding mothers (1.90 ± 4.18 kg versus 1.71 ± 3.48 kg), but the difference was not statistically significant. The trend in percent body fat loss was significant among exclusively breastfeeding mothers (p = 0.034) but not mixed feeding mothers (p = 0.081). Exclusively breastfeeding mothers consumed more calories than mixed feeding mothers (1980 ± 618 kcal versus 1541 ± 196 kcal p = 0.08). Physical activity levels were, however, higher in mixed feeding mothers than exclusively breastfeeding mothers.

Conclusion

Our results provide further evidence that exclusive breastfeeding promotes greater weight loss than mixed feeding among mothers even in the early postpartum period. This suggests that there is the need to encourage mothers to exclusively breastfeed as a means of overweight and obesity prevention.