bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
γ-Radiation Synthesis and Properties of Superparamagnetic CS-ZnSe:Mn Nanocrystals for Biological Labeling
Authors: Kang Bin , Chang Shu-Quan , Sun Hao , Dai Yao-Dong , Chen Da
Published: July 2008

Chitosan coated ZnSe:Mn (CS-ZnSe:Mn) nanocrystals were successfully synthesized in aqueous system through a γ-radiation route at room temperature under ambient pressure. The structure and properties of nanocrystals were investigated with transmission electron microscope
(TEM), fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectrometer, photoluminescence emission (PL) spectra, X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersion spectrum (EDS). Results showed that the diameter of these nanocrystals was about 4 nm with narrow size distribution.
With the increase of doped Mn2+ concentration, strong emission peak at 610 nm was observed besides the weak emission peak at 425 nm since the non-radiative transition of 4T1(4G)–6A1(6S) level, resulting the
transfer of fluorescence color from blue to orange. Moreover, analysis of SQUID magnetometer indicated that the nanocrystals were superparamagnetic with a saturation magnetization of 1.7 emu/g and a Curie-Weiss temperature of 14–15 K. Hep G2 cells were incubated in solution of nanocrystals
and results showed that the synthesized nanocrystals could stain cytoplasm but could not enter into nucleus.
Characteristics of ZnO Nanowall Structures Grown on GaN Template Using Organometallic Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Wu C. C. , Wuu D. S. , Chen T. N. , Yu T. E. , Lin P. R. , Horng R. H. , Sun S.
Published: July 2008

Uniformly distributed ZnO nanowall network structures were grown at 550 °C by organometallic chemical vapor deposition technique on the GaN/sapphire substrate without using any catalysts. In this research, we discussed the nanostructures and optical properties of ZnO samples grown
under the same conditions but on different underlying materials (GaN/sapphire and sapphire). By adjusting the growth parameters, ZnO nanowall networks with a honeycomb-like pattern without using any metal catalysts were successfully fabricated on the GaN/sapphire and sapphire substrates. Since
the lattice mismatch between ZnO and GaN is only about 1.8% while the lattice mismatch between ZnO and sapphire is about 18.4%. Lattice mismatch may not be the decisive factor in the formation process of ZnO nanowall networks. The ZnO grown on GaN epilayer had smaller full width at half maximum
value than that of ZnO grown under the same growth condition on the sapphire substrate, indicating a higher crystal quality in the sample of ZnO on GaN. The room temperature PL measurement of both ZnO nanostructures grown on GaN and sapphire show strong ultraviolet peak intensity and high
intensity ratio of the near band emission to the deep-level emission in a PL spectrum.
Preparation of Akaganeite Nanorods and Their Transformation to Sphere Shape Hematite
Authors: Chen Ming , Jiang Jianhua , Zhou Xiaoming , Diao Guowang
Published: July 2008

Akaganeite (β-FeOOH) nanorods were synthesized through hydrolysis of FeCl3 and FeCl2 solutions containing urea in the temperature range from 90 to 95 °C under reflux condition for 8 h. The average diameters and lengths of nanorods were impacted
by FeCl2 and urea. Upon heating the solution containing FeCl3, FeCl2 and urea, the average diameters were about 80 nm and lengths of nanorods were about 1.2 μm. The morphologies of β-FeOOH nanorods in different growth times were shown
by TEM images. More interestingly, in the growth process of nanorods, they can self-assemble and form cross structure. The ultrasonic might promote effectively the formation of the nano-cross structure. β-FeOOH nanorods were calcined and the influence of the calcining temperature
and time about the morphology and size of the powder was studied. By heating β-FeOOH nanorods at 800 °C for 6 hours, the hematite in sphere shape was obtained and the forming mechanism was discussed.
Ni/Ni Oxides Nanoparticles with Potential Biomedical Applications Obtained by Displacement of a Nickel-Organometallic Complex
Authors: Rodríguez-Llamazares Saddys , Merchán Juan , Olmedo Ivonne , Marambio Héctor Pablo , Muñoz Juan Pablo , Jara Paul , Sturm Juan Carlos , Chornik Boris , Peña Octavio , Yutronic Nicolás , Kogan Marcelo Javier
Published: July 2008

A new synthesis and stabilization method was developed for paramagnetic nanoparticles composed of nickel and nickel oxides. Nickel/nickel oxides nanoparticles were synthesized by a method based on ligand displacement of bis(1,5-cyclooctadiene)-nickel(0), zerovalent organometallic precursor
and simultaneous formation of a thiourea inclusion compound. Nickel/nickel oxides nanoparticles were stabilized with the amphipathic peptide H2N-Cys-Leu-Pro-Phe-Phe-Asp-NH2 having H2N-Leu-Pro-Phe-Phe-Asp-NH2 a peptide with potential properties for
Alzheimer's disease therapy. The inclusion compound formed after displacement was characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, and nickel/nickel oxides nanoparticles were characterized using transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, UV-Visible spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron
spectroscopy, and superconducting quantum interference device magnetometry. In addition, a cell viability assay in primary rat hippocampal neurons was carried out.
Swift Synthesis of Hierarchically Ordered Mesocellular Mesoporous Silica by Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Seo You-Kyong , Suryanarayana I. , Hwang Young Kyu , Shin Namsoo , Ahn Do-Cheon , Jun Chul-Ho , Chang Jong-San
Published: July 2008

Hierarchically ordered mesocellular mesoporous silicas (HMMS) were swiftly synthesized using P123 and sodium silicate as a silica source within an hour by applying microwave irradiation without pore expander. The XRD, TEM and BET studies demonstrated that materials as-synthesized and
calcined have the hierarchically ordered mesocellular structure with two different sizes about 10 nm and 30 nm pores having a minimized micropore volume compared with conventional hydrothermal method. Moreover, the HMMS sample prepared by microwave-assisted hydrothermal method had higher surface
area than that of conventional hydrothermal method. The variation of the pore size and morphology of mesocellular structure varied with the aging time.
Scaling Studies of Nano Dots Formed on InP(111) Surfaces via MeV Implantation
Authors: Paramanik D. , Sahoo S. R. , Majumdar S. , Varma S.
Published: July 2008

The scaling parameters have been studied here for InP(111) surfaces that evolve after implantation with MeV ions. The surfaces show the development of nano pattern and kinetic roughening. Growth exponent β, roughening exponent and the characteristic wavelength have been
studied here at several fluences. Scaling parameters suggest that the surface evolution can not be explained by linear Bradley Harper model or by Kuramoto-Sivashinsky model alone.
Magnetotransport and Structural Properties of Nanocrystalline FeAgAl Thin Films
Authors: Patil P. B. , Rout S. , Rao A. R. B. , Senthil Kumar M.
Published: July 2008

Structural and magnetotransport properties of metallic FexAgyAlz nanogranular thin films were studied. These films with several compositions were prepared by dc magnetron sputtering. X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements carried out
on the samples show only Ag(111) peaks. The d-spacings determined from the Ag(111) peaks are smaller than the standard value for bulk Ag indicating a partial substitution of Fe and Al atoms in Ag matrix. Transmission electron diffraction (TEM) patterns show a number of Ag rings. Both
XRD and TEM studies did not reveal any diffraction peaks due to Fe or Al. The average particle size determined from the TEM micrograph is 5.9 nm. This value is in good agreement with the grain size determined from the XRD patterns for the Al substituted samples. The MR was found to increase
for smaller Al concentration and it decreases with further increase in Al content. In the samples investigated magnetoresistance ratio reaches a maximum value of about 4.5% for the Fe27 Ag63Al10 film.
Electron Transport Through Molecular Bridge Systems
Authors: Maiti Santanu K.
Published: July 2008

Electron transport characteristics are investigated through some molecular chains attached with two non-superconducting electrodes by the use of Green's function method. Here we do parametric calculations based on the tight-binding formulation to characterize the electron transport
through such bridge systems. The transport properties are significantly influenced by (a) the length of the molecular chain and (b) the molecule-to-electrodes coupling strength and here we focus our results in these aspects. In this context we also discuss the steady state current fluctuations,
so-called shot noise, which is a consequence of the quantization of charge and is not directly available through conductance measurements.
High Pressure Growth of Nanocrystalline Silicon Films
Authors: Kumar Sushil , Gope Jhuma , Kumar Aravind , Parashar A. , Rauthan C. M. S. , Dixit P. N.
Published: July 2008

Nanocrystalline silicon thin films were grown using gaseous mixture of 5% silane (SiH4) diluted in hydrogen (H2) and argon (Ar) in a radio frequency (13.56 MHz) plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition technique. These films were deposited as a function of pressure
and were characterized using AFM, Laser Raman, UV-VIS transmission, photoluminescence and electrical conductivity techniques. AFM micrographs shows that these films contain nanocrystallites of 30–60 nm size. Laser Raman peaks at 520 cm−1 and photoluminescence peaks at
2.75 and 2.85 eV have been observed. The crystalline fraction in these films was varied from 30% to 80% with the variation of deposition pressure from 2 Torr to 8 Torr. There is an optimum pressure of 4 Torr where the maximum growth of nanocrystalline phases was observed. It has been found
that nanocrystallites in these film enhanced the optical band gap and electrical conductivity. Also a voltage–current (V–I) probe was used to evaluate the various electrical parameters of the plasma used to deposit the nc-Si:H films for the present investigation.
Growth via a SiH3 precursor, diffusion of hydrogen in the sub-surface and argon etching of weak bonds are some of the processes that may be involved in the nano crystallization process.
Excess Enthalpy and Luminescence Studies of SnO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Ningthoujam R. S. , Mishra R. , Das D. , Dey G. K. , Kulshreshtha S. K.
Published: July 2008

The extra reactivity of nano materials is attributed to the excess surface energy stored in the sample. The excess enthalpy of SnO2 nano-particles were measured as a function of particle size using a calvet calorimeter. SnO2 with particle size 11, 27, 47 nm and
bulk samples (1 μm) were dropped from room temperature to 987, 936 and 885 K and their HT–H298 values were determined. The excess enthalpies for SnO2 samples with particle sizes 11, 27and 47 nm compared to the bulk sample calculated
from the difference between HT–H298 values of the nano and the bulk samples were found to be 15.06, 3.05, 2.21 kJ · mol−1 respectively. Luminescence experiments reveal that the surface trap electron density decreases
with increase of particle size. The excess enthalpy is related to the surface trap intensity.
Surface Plasmon Resonance of Ag Nanoparticles Embedded in Partially Oxidized Amorphous Si Matrix
Authors: Mohapatra S. , Mishra Y. K. , Ghatak J. , Kabiraj D. , Avasthi D. K.
Published: July 2008

Nanocomposite films containing Ag nanoparticles embedded in partially oxidized amorphous Si matrix were deposited on silica glass substrates by co-sputtering of Ag and Si with 1.5 keV neutral Ar atoms. The Ag content and thickness of the nanocomposite films was determined by Rutherford
backscattering spectrometry. Optical absorption studies revealed the presence of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) indicating the formation of Ag nanoparticles in the as-deposited films. The position, width and strength of SPR have been found to be strongly dependent on the Ag content of the
films. For annealing in oxidizing atmosphere, a significant red shift in the SPR along with a drastic reduction in the resonant absorption has been observed. The amount of red shift has been found to be dependent on the Ag content of the films. Transmission electron microscopy was used to
study the size distribution, shape and crystal structure of Ag nanoparticles in the nanocomposite films. TEM analysis of annealed sample revealed the formation of silver oxide nanoshells surrounding Ag nanoparticles.
Novel Low Temperature Chemical Synthesis and Characterization of Zinc Oxide Nanostructures
Authors: Giri P. K. , Bhattacharyya S. , Chetia B. , Panigrahi B. K. , Nair K. G. M. , Iyer P. K.
Published: July 2008

We report a new and highly efficient method to synthesize zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures having a variety of sizes and shapes. A simple chemical reaction is followed that utilizes the oxidation of metallic zinc in the presence of an appropriate catalyst. This one-step method has advantages
such as low temperature and atmospheric pressure synthesis, high yield of more than 90% and excellent optical and crystalline properties of the product. X-ray diffraction pattern of the samples shows hexagonal phase of ZnO with particles size in the range of 60–75 nm. Scanning electron
microscope and transmission electron microscope images of the ZnO show hexagonal and rod-shaped nanoparticles. UV-visible spectra of the dispersed samples show strong absorption peaks at ∼378 nm. The photoluminescence spectra show a strong emission peak at ∼388 nm indicating good optical
characteristics. The product formed is found to be dependent on the ratio of the starting materials and on other reaction conditions such as temperature, time etc. This method is suitable for large-scale production of nanosized ZnO and could be extended for the synthesis of other metal oxides,
such as MgO etc.
Preparation, Microstructure and Optical Absorption Behaviour of NiO Thin Films
Authors: Srivastava Amit Kumar , Thota Subhash , Kumar Jitendra
Published: July 2008

Nickel oxide thin films have been prepared by spin coating on glass, silicon(111) and quartz substrate using a solution of nickel acetate tetrahydrate in 2-methoxyethanol and mono-ethanolamine and subsequent annealing at 300–600 °C for 2 h in air. These films have been characterized
with regard to phase, microstructure and optical absorption using X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy and UV-visible spectrophotometry, respectively. It is shown that NiO thin films have polycrystalline nature and possess an f.c.c. (NaCl-type) structure with lattice parameter varying
with annealing temperature (T) and solution molarity; typical value being a = 4.186 Å with T = 500 °C and molarity 0.5 M. The microstructure clearly reveals the formation of ellipsoids with average projected major and minor diameters as ∼58 and ∼38 nm,
respectively and nano-rods of average diameter ∼12nm with aspect ratio of ∼5.2. On the other hand, thin films formed by dip coating with the same solution contain spherical particles of average diameter ∼28 nm. NiO thin films exhibit (i) high optical transmittance (80–95%)
in the wave length range of 400–800 nm, (ii) sharp absorption in the interval 300–400 nm like that of semiconductor/insulator, (iii) decrease of energy band gap, Eg (value lies in the range 3.66–3.83 eV; bulk value being 3.55 eV) with increase of annealing
temperature and molarity both. The higher values of band gap have been attributed to the reduced average size of the crystallites.
Raman Spectroscopic Investigations of Nanoparticles of SnxTi1−xO2 Solid Solution
Authors: Pandey M. , Ningthoujam R. S. , Sudarsan V. , Deb S. K. , Kulshreshtha S. K.
Published: July 2008

SnO2 nanoparticles dispersed in TiO2 matrix are prepared at a relatively low temperature of ∼185 °C. Nanoparticles of SnxTi1−xO2 solid solution without significant aggregation have been prepared by annealing
them at ∼500 and 900 °C. X-ray diffraction and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy studies have clearly established the nano-size nature of the samples. Raman spectroscopic investigations of these samples show mixed vibrational modes, some of them being similar to TiO2
(A1g, Eg), while some of them are similar to SnO2 (B2g). The Eg mode shows significant red shift and B2g mode shows significant blue shift. Unlike this A1g mode remains unaffected. These
results are explained based on the combined effects of random alloy formation and the nano-size nature of samples.
Potential for Mass Production of Nickel-Based Nanomaterials by Carbonyl Process
Authors: Paserin Vladimir , Baksa Steve , Zaitsev Alexandre , Shu Jun , Shojai Faranak , Nowosiadly William
Published: July 2008

High purity micron and sub-micron scale nickel materials have been mass-produced by the nickel carbonyl process for many decades. The same technology is being explored for mass production of nano-scale nickel products. The paper presents an overview of nickel carbonyl technology suitable
for mass production of nano-scale nickel powders with surface areas exceeding 100 m2/g, and various three-dimensional nickel based micro structures. The industrial processes are based on the homogeneous decomposition of carbonyl in the free space of a CVD reactor and on the heterogeneous
decomposition of carbonyl on a variety of substrates, including polymer foams and carbon fibres.
Growth of Textured Nanocrystalline Cobalt Ferrite Thin Films by Pulsed Laser Deposition
Authors: Aditya Lakshmikanta , Srivastava A. , Sahoo S. K. , Das P. , Mukherjee C. , Misra Abha , Reddy V. R. , Shinde R. S. , Gupta Ajay , Prasad Shiva , Samajdar I. , Nandedkar R. V. , Venkataramani N.
Published: July 2008

Cobalt ferrite thin films have been deposited on fused quartz substrates by pulsed laser deposition at various substrate temperatures, TS (25 °C, 300 °C, 550 °C and 750 °C). Single phase, nanocrystalline, spinel cobalt ferrite formation is confirmed
by X-ray diffraction (XRD) for TS ≥ 300 °C. Conventional XRD studies reveal strong (111) texturing in the as deposited films with TS ≥ 550 °C. Bulk texture measurements using X-ray orientation distribution function confirmed (111) preferred
orientation in the films with TS ≥ 550 °C. Grain size (13–16 nm for TS ≥ 300 °C) estimation using grazing incidence X-ray line broadening analysis shows insignificant grain growth with increasing TS, which is in good
agreement with grain size data obtained from transmission electron microscopy.
Functional Behaviour of Polyethylene-ZnO Nanocomposites
Authors: Vigneshwaran N. , Bharimalla A. K. , Prasad Virendra , Kathe A. A. , Balasubramanya R. H.
Published: July 2008

Hybrid inorganic–organic nanocomposite materials are of current interest because of their multi-functionality, ease of processability, and potential for large-scale manufacturing. The focus of this study is to ascertain the functional properties of the commodity plastic impregnated
with ZnO/starch nanocomposites. ZnO/starch nanocomposites was prepared by a simple process using zinc nitrate and sodium hydroxide as precursor and soluble starch as stabilizing agent. The peak obtained in terms of wavelength from UV-visible spectrum is converted in terms of particle size
using effective mass approximation method. The plastic sheet of 50 μm thickness was prepared by hot blow method using 1:1 ratio of HDPE:LLDPE and 1% concentration of ZnO/starch nanocomposites. The morphological analysis was carried out using both optical and scanning electron microscopy.
For antibacterial activity, evaluation was carried out with Staphylococcus aureus (AATCC 6538), a Gram-positive bacterium and Klebsiella pneumoniae (AATCC 4352), a Gram-negative bacterium. Excellent UV blocking ability was noticed in nanocomposites when compared to the control.
Novel Method of Growing Ultrananocrystalline Diamond Tips and Their Field Emission Property Study
Authors: Joseph P. T. , Chen Li-Ju , Tai Nyan-Hwa , Palnitkar Umesh , Cheng Hsiu-Fung , Lin I-Nan
Published: July 2008

Different forms of diamond have been shown to have qualities as field emission sources. As a consequence, much effort has been focused on both the synthesis of diamond nanostructures to increase the field enhancement factor and understanding the emission mechanism in these nominally
insulating materials. In our recent study, we have grown ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD) coated nanocrystalline diamond (NCD) tips on NCD films for field emitters. The films were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy to identify the quality
of the films. The fabricated different sizes of pyramid tips and their field emission properties are reported. It has been observed that with increase in tip size, the turn on voltage also increases.
Grain Size Dependent Transport and Magnetoresistance Behavior of Chemical Solution Deposition Grown Nanostructured La07Sr03MnO3 Manganite Films
Authors: Parmar R. N. , Markna J. H. , Solanki P. S. , Doshi R. R. , Vachhani P. S. , Kuberkar D. G.
Published: July 2008

Grain-size dependence of electronic transport and magnetoresistance (MR) properties of nanostructured La0.7Sr0.3 MnO3 (LSMO) manganite thin films on LaAlO3 (100) single crystal substrates prepared using Chemical Solution Deposition (CSD) technique
have been studied. The LSMO thin films were annealed at temperatures in the range of 700–1000 °C for different time intervals [6 h and 12 h] and crystallized as singlephase LSMO. Microstructural studies carried out using AFM show a marginal increase in the grain-size from 50 to 90
nm as the temperature was varied from 700 °C to 1000 °C respectively. It has been observed that the insulator-metal transition (TP) and MR depend on the grain size. In zero applied field, resistivity reduction is ∼ 103 at 5 K for the films annealed
at 700 °C [TP ∼ 341 K] and 1000 °C [TP ∼ 373 K]. MR versus H isotherms reveal that MR enhances in the vicinity of TP but decreases at low temperatures. The results obtained from the electronic and magnetotransport studies
are in good agreement with the change in surface morphology of the films studied, which shows that the randomly distributed domains are composed of faceted grains. Synthesizing conditions, annealing temperature and time control the growth and alignment of grains into the domains, which cause
better conduction at grain interface.
Dynamic Mechanical Analysis of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube/HDPE Composites
Authors: Kanagaraj S. , Guedes R. M. , Oliveira Mónica S. A. , Simões José A. O.
Published: July 2008

Since the discovery of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), their remarkable properties make them ideal candidates to reinforce in advanced composites. In this attempt, an enhancement of mechanical properties of high density polyethylene (HDPE) by adding 1 wt% of CNTs is studied using Dynamic mechanical
and Thermal analyzer (DMTA). The chemically treated and functionalized CNTs were homogeneously dispersed with HDPE and the test samples were made using injection molding machine. Using DMTA, storage modulus (E′), loss modulus (E″) and damping factor (tan δ)
of the sample under oscillating load were studied as a function of frequency of oscillation and temperatures. The storage modulus decreases with an increase of temperature and increases by adding CNTs in the composites where the reinforcing effect of CNT is confirmed. It is concluded that
the large scale polymer relaxations in the composites are effectively restrained by the presence of CNTs and thus the mechanical properties of nanocomposites increase. The transition frequency of loss modulus is observed at 1 Hz. The loss modulus decreases with an increase of temperature at
below 1 Hz but opposite trend was observed at above 1 Hz. The shift factor could be predicted from Williams-Landel-Ferry (WLF) model which has good agreement with experimental results.
Downslope Flows on a Low-Angle Slope and Their Interactions with Valley Inversions. Part II: Numerical Modeling
Authors: Zhong Shiyuan , Whiteman C. David
Published: July 2008

The characteristics of well-developed downslope winds observed by tethered balloon soundings at multiple locations over a low-angle slope in the Salt Lake Valley are studied using the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS). The model successfully simulated the key properties of the observed wind and temperature structure and evolution and provided insight into the forcing mechanisms. The results show that, although the slope angle is only 1.6°, the buoyancy force associated with the local temperature perturbation caused by nocturnal cooling of the slope surface is capable of producing the unusually strong and deep downslope winds observed by the tethersondes. The hypothesis that the flow is produced locally by the temperature deficit is further confirmed by analysis of the momentum budget that indicates a very small contribution from advection to the downslope mass flux. The analysis also reveals the importance of the along-slope pressure gradient force, which has been neglected by some previous investigators. On an isolated slope, the pressure gradient force, which develops as the downslope-flow layer deepens with downslope distance, is important mostly in the upper part of the downslope wind layer where it counterbalances the buoyancy force. On a slope in a valley, the pressure gradient force interacts with the valley inversion to produce intermittency in the downslope jet and may also significantly slow the flow as the inversion strengthens during the night. The simulations for two different observational nights indicate that the maximum downslope wind speed is sensitive to ambient stability, with near-neutral ambient stability yielding a stronger downslope jet than does a more stable ambient atmosphere. Sensitivity studies suggest that an increase in down-valley winds leads to a decrease in the maximum downslope wind speed and an increase in the thickness of the downslope wind layer. An increase in slope roughness, on the other hand, increases the height of the downslope jet but has little effect on other properties. The downslope wind is stronger over a gentle 1.6° slope than over a much steeper slope of 11°, mainly because of the combination of the stronger buoyancy and weaker pressure gradient over the gentle slope.
Measuring East Asian Summer Monsoon Rainfall Contributions by Different Weather Systems over Taiwan
Authors: Wang Shih-Yu , Chen Tsing-Chang
Published: July 2008

The east Asian summer monsoon (EASM) is characterized by a distinct life cycle consisting of the active, break, and revival monsoon phases. Different weather systems prevail in each phase following the change of large-scale flow regime. During the active phase, midlatitude cold, dry air moving equatorward into the tropics develops eastward-propagating fronts and rainstorms. The western ridge of the North Pacific subtropical anticyclone, which leads to the break phase, suppresses the development of synoptic-scale weather systems but enhances the diurnal heating. In the revival phase, the monsoon trough displaces the anticyclonic ridge northward and increases typhoon activity. This study examines quantitative measurements of climatological rainfall contributed by these weather systems that will help to validate simulations of the EASM climate system and facilitate water management by government agencies. To accomplish this goal, rain gauge measurements in Taiwan were analyzed. It was found that in the active phase (late spring–early summer), mei-yu rainstorms forming over northern Indochina and the South China Sea contribute one-half of the total rainfall, and cold-frontal passages account for about 15%. During the synoptically inactive break spell (midsummer), rainfall is produced mainly by diurnal convection (51%) along the western mountain slopes of the island. In the revival phase (late summer–early autumn), the impacts of diurnal convection and typhoons become comparable, with each accounting for about 40% of the total rainfall. The diurnal and typhoon contributions are separated by the north–south-oriented mountain range, with more than 50% of diurnal (typhoon) rainfall over the western (eastern) half of the island. Rainfall contributions from diurnal convection over the entire summer and mei-yu rainstorms in the active monsoon phase are also significant.
Characterization of the Martian Surface Layer
Authors: Martínez Germán , Valero Francisco , Vázquez Luis
Published: July 2008

The authors have estimated the diurnal evolution of Monin–Obukhov length, friction velocity, temperature scale, surface heat flux, eddy-transfer coefficients for momentum and heat, and turbulent viscous dissipation rate on the Martian surface layer for a complete sol belonging to the Pathfinder mission. All these magnitudes have been derived from in situ wind and temperature measurements at around 1.3-m height and simulated ground temperature (from 0600 sol 25 to 0600 sol 26). Previously, neither values of turbulent viscous dissipation rate and eddy-transfer coefficients from in situ measurements for the Martian surface layer nor diurnal evolutions of all the previously mentioned turbulent parameters for the Pathfinder had been obtained.

Monin–Obukhov similarity theory for stratified surface layers has been applied to obtain the results. The values assigned to the surface roughness and the applied parameterization of the interfacial sublayer will be discussed in detail with respect to the results’ sensitivity to them.

The authors have found similarities concerning the order of magnitude and qualitative behavior of Monin–Obukhov length, friction velocity, and turbulent viscous dissipation rate on Earth and on Mars. However, quantities directly related to the lower Martian atmospheric density and thermal inertia, like temperature scale and hence surface heat flux, range over different orders of magnitude. Additionally, turbulent exchanges in the first few meters have been found to be just two orders of magnitude higher than the molecular ones, whereas on Earth around five orders of magnitude separate both mechanisms.
Likelihood to Vote, Candidate Choice, and the Third-Person Effect
Authors: Golan Guy J. , Banning Stephen A. , Lundy Lisa
Published: July 2008

This study found that levels of likelihood to vote can be predicted by the third-person effect. Unlike past studies that treated support for censorship as the main consequence of the third-person effect, this study is the first to examine the direct political implications of the process. A judgment task experiment of 340 individuals who were shown four ads from the 2004 Bush and Kerry campaigns yielded support for both the perceptual and behavioral hypotheses. The authors present paternalism as a theoretical rational for this occurrence. If individuals feel that others who are less knowledgeable or politically sophisticated than they are might be more likely to be persuaded by political advertising, they in turn would attempt to compensate for other's perceived ignorance by taking political action such as voting.
The Role of Empathy and Parenting Style in the Development of Antisocial Behaviors
Authors: Schaffer Megan , Clark Stephanie , Jeglic Elizabeth L.
Published: July 2008

This study examined the relationship among parenting, empathy, and antisocial behavior. Two hundred forty-four undergraduate students attending an urban university completed self-report questionnaires assessing their antisocial behavior, empathy, and mothers’ and fathers’ parenting styles. Support was found for a model in which maternal permissive parenting contributed directly and indirectly to antisocial behavior, through its effects on cognitive and emotional empathy development. Findings are discussed in relation to the current literature on empathy, parenting, and adult antisocial behavior.
Understanding African Diaspora Political Activism
Authors: Bandele Ramla
Published: July 2008

The author’s work explores one way the African diaspora found resources and strategies to participate in transnational politics. She completed an empirical study of the Universal Negro Improvement Association’s Black Star Line and how it became the diasporic project that could bring about an economic enclave for diaspora trade among sister communities and West Africa. The effort was championed by many diaspora communities because it was seen as a solution to racial discrimination in transportation that hindered the mobility of Black travelers, migrant labor, and trade. The study provides a glimpse of activism in the fascinating parallax that we call the African diaspora by uncovering additional factors that help explain how this project gained traction and support; then it provides a detailed analysis of its demise.
The Perceived Elimination of Affirmative Action and the Strengthening of Historically Black Colleges and Universities
Authors: Palmer Robert
Published: July 2008

Researchers have asserted that historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have theoretically emerged from a social contract between emancipated Blacks and America. Although these institutions have facilitated access to higher education, they have been neglected and underfunded compared to their historically White counterparts. Notwithstanding their significance, fewer African Americans are accessing these institutions, prompted by governmental initiatives, such as financial aid, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and affirmative action. As affirmative action seems to face demise, a mass of Black students may rely on HBCUs to access higher education. As such, HBCUs should advocate for funding equity to better serve the plausible influx of students and to reaffirm the social contract from which they originated.
From School—Family Links to Social Capital
Authors: Symeou Loizos
Published: July 2008

This article reports on a multiple case study that explored teachers' and families' collaboration in two urban and four rural state elementary schools in Cyprus. The analysis of the data shows that teachers' approaches to their collaboration with families may be traced not only to differences among teachers but also to the ideological approach of the parents' community to schooling and school—family relationships. The study suggests that teacher—family networks and how these relate to different parent ideologies can be beneficially used to actively strengthen social network closure between the school and the students' homes that could lead to improved learning.
The Color of Money
Authors: Vaught Sabina Elena
Published: July 2008

This article explores the roles of racism and Whiteness in the decentralized governance structure and practice of a weighted student formula funding policy in an urban, West Coast school district. Specifically, it examines the ways in which a racialized struggle for fiscal authority played out at one urban high school where the immense racial disparities in education and achievement were starkly highlighted. The analysis of this struggle is framed by Critical Race Theory and suggests that Whiteness operates as a form of property that maintains White racial dominance in schooling and achievement.
Employment Sub-centres and Travel-to-Work Mode Choice in the Dublin Region
Authors: Vega Amaya , Reynolds-Feighan Aisling
Published: July 2008

In this paper, travel-to-work patterns are analysed for a number of key employment sub-centres in the Dublin region. Geographical information system (GIS) visualisations and regression analysis are used to identify a small number of employment sub-centres using a large sample of travel-to-work data from the 2002 Census of Population modified with travel-specific data by the Dublin Transport Office. The journey to work is then analysed across these employment sub-centres in the context of a travel mode choice model. The estimation results illustrate the varying effects that travel attributes such as travel time and travel cost have on the choice of mode of travel across employment destinations highlighting the role of trip destination as a main driver of travel behaviour in the Dublin region.
Does `Smart Growth' Matter to Public Finance?
Authors: Carruthers John I. , Úlfarsson Gudmundur F.
Published: July 2008

This paper addresses four fundamental questions about the relationship between `smart growth', a fiscally motivated anti-sprawl policy movement, and public finance. Do low-density, spatially extensive land use patterns cost more to support? If so, how large an influence does sprawl actually have? How does the influence differ among types of spending? And, how does it compare with the influence of other relevant factors? The analysis, which is based on the entire continental US and uses a series of spatial econometric models to evaluate one aggregate (total direct) and nine disaggregate (education, fire protection, housing and community development, libraries, parks and recreation, police protection, roadways, sewerage, and solid waste disposal) measures of spending, provides the most detailed evidence to date of how sprawl affects the vast sum of revenue that local governments spend every year.
The Multiple Sites of Urban Governance: Insights from an African City
Authors: Lindell Ilda
Published: July 2008

Contemporary modes of urban governance involve a wide variety of actors. The present paper combines insights from several debates into a framework that considers the multiple sites where practices of governance are exercised and contested, various and entangled layers of relations and a broad range of practices of governance that may involve various modes of power, as well as different scales. The paper illustrates some of these complexities with an empirical study of the governance of marketplaces in Maputo, Mozambique. It shows how urban governance in a context of extensive informalisation and `democratic transition' can be highly fragmented and fluid, contesting some of the assumptions underlying Western debates on urban governance. It also questions notions of the hollowed-out state and an excessive focus on public policy.
Design and Destinations: Factors Influencing Walking and Total Physical Activity
Authors: Forsyth Ann , Hearst Mary , Oakes J. Michael , Schmitz Kathryn H.
Published: July 2008

Do people walk more, or less, depending on the physical character of their residential areas rather than merely their individual characteristics? This paper reports findings for the Twin Cities, Minnesota, about how walking and total physical activity are affected by street pattern, `pedestrian-oriented' infrastructure and amenities, and mixed use or destinations—in shorthand, design and destinations. The effects of density are dealt with in less depth. Like earlier studies, it finds that walking for specific purposes (i.e. travel or leisure) varies in relation to the physical characteristics of places. However, this study using multiple measures of overall walking and physical activity suggests that socially similar people do the same total amount of physical activity in different kinds of places and that level of activity is, on average, low.
Pharmacokinetic‐Pharmacodynamic Modeling of Dalbavancin, a Novel Glycopeptide Antibiotic
Authors: Dowell James A. , Goldstein Beth P. , Buckwalter Mary , Stogniew Martin , Damle Bharat
Published: July 2008

Dalbavancin is a novel glycopeptide with a 2‐dose, once‐weekly dosing regimen that is being developed for the treatment of complicated skin and skin structure infections caused by gram‐positive bacteria. Monte Carlo simulations were performed for dalbavancin using population pharmacokinetic data and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for clinical trial isolates. The time‐dependent target was the maintenance of free drug concentrations above the MIC for 14 days (t > MIC). The concentration‐dependent target was an area under the concentration‐time curve (AUC)/MIC ratio of approximately 1000 for Staphylococcus aureus and 100 for Streptococcussp. These targets were used to estimate susceptibility breakpoints for dalbavancin. For S aureus, the estimated susceptibility breakpoint was ≤0.5 μg/mL using AUC14 days/MIC and ≤1 μg/mL using t > MIC. For Streptococcus sp, the estimated susceptibility breakpoint was at least 2 μg/mL. Because dalbavancin MIC90s for these species are well below these values, the analysis supports the use of once‐weekly dosing regimens of dalbavancin in the treatment of complicated skin and skin structure infections.
Adequacy of venlafaxine dose prescribing in major depression and hospital resources implications
Authors: Vanoli A , Lane CJ , Harrison Claire , Steen NI , Young AH
Published: July 2008

Venlafaxine, a dual serotonin and noradrenaline re-uptake inhibitor, has been found to be effective at doses below 375 mg daily, but for patients with major depression higher doses can be required. In this retrospective naturalistic study, we investigated the effectiveness and resource implications of prescribing higher than standard doses of venlafaxine (tablet preparation). Ninety-six outpatients fulfilling DSM-IV criteria for major depressive disorder were assigned to two demographically matched cohorts: cohort A, receiving high doses ( n = 38; doses ≥375 mg/day) and cohort B, receiving standard doses ( n = 58; doses <375 mg/day). Data on hospital resources, drugs and medical profiles were extracted from patients' records. Information on cohort A was also obtained before their high-dose regime, while taking standard doses. A within-group analysis of cohort A showed that patients spent fewer days in hospital ( P = 0.03) and had fewer outpatients visits ( P < 0.01) when on high doses than when on standard doses. A between-group analysis found that cohort A, while on higher doses, had fewer outpatient visits compared with cohort B ( P < 0.01). Patients in both groups had satisfactory drug tolerability and efficacy profiles. There were no differences between cohorts with regard to baseline characteristics, a part from the more intensive use of additional medications made by cohort A. Our preliminary investigation suggests that higher doses of venlafaxine may be cost-saving in relation to selected hospital resources. However, one cannot firmly conclude that the change in service use is due to the higher-dose regime, and we recommend further research to ascertain the cost-effectiveness of adequate dose prescribing in patients with poor symptom resolution at lower doses of venlafaxine.
Establishing non-inferiority in treatment trials in psychiatry — guidelines from an Expert Consensus Meeting
Authors: Nutt D , Allgulander C , Lecrubier Y , Peters T , Wittchen HU
Published: July 2008

Comparing the efficacy of different treatments in psychiatry is difficult for many reasons, even when they are investigated in `head-to-head' studies. A consensus meeting was, therefore, held to produce best practice guidelines for such studies. This article presents the conclusions of this consensus and illustrates it using published data in the field of antidepressant treatment of generalized anxiety disorder.
A non-inferiority comparison of duloxetine and venlafaxine in the treatment of adult patients with generalized anxiety disorder
Authors: Allgulander C , Nutt D , Detke M , Erickson J , Spann M , Walker D , Ball SG , Russell JM
Published: July 2008

The present study is a non-inferiority comparison of duloxetine 60— 120 mg/day and venlafaxine extended-release (XR) 75—225 mg/day for the treatment of adults with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The non-inferiority test was a prespecified plan to pool data from two nearly identical 10-week, multicentre, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind studies of duloxetine 60-120 mg/day and venlafaxine 75—225 mg/ day for the treatment of GAD. An independent expert consensus panel provided six statistical and clinical criteria for determining non-inferiority between treatments. Response was defined as ≥50% reduction in Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA) total score. In the pooled sample, patients were randomly assigned to duloxetine ( n = 320), venlafaxine XR ( n = 333) or placebo ( n = 331). For the non-inferiority analysis, the per-protocol patients who were treated with duloxetine ( n = 239) or venlafaxine XR ( n = 262) improved significantly more (mean HAMA reductions were −15.4 and −15.2, respectively) than placebo-treated patients ( n = 267; −11.6, P ≤ 0.001, both comparisons). Response rates were 56%, 58% and 40%, respectively. Discontinuation rate because of AEs was significantly higher for duloxetine (13.4%, P ≤ 0.001) and venlafaxine XR (11.4%, P ≤ 0.01) groups compared with placebo (5.4%). Duloxetine 60—120 mg/day met all statistical and clinical criteria for non-inferiority and exhibited a similar tolerability profile compared with venlafaxine XR 75—225 mg/day for the treatment of adults with GAD.
Balancing Acts
Authors: Marshall Sheila K. , Young Richard A. , Tilton-Weaver Lauree C.
Published: July 2008

This investigation describes the joint goal-directed series of actions, or joint friendship projects, of 19 mothers and their adolescents. Data were collected through videotaped conversations, video recall interviews, and self-report logs collected over an 8-month period. Qualitative analysis of the data revealed joint projects characterized by the pursuit of competing priorities. Efforts to balance competing priorities are described as three forms of balancing acts: (a) organizing time for friendships and responsibilities, (b) adolescent independence with friends while ensuring physical safety, and (c) balancing inclusion in the peer context and the risk of physical and emotional harm from friends and peers.
PHEMA Hydrogels Modified through the Grafting of Phosphate Groups by ATRP Support the Attachment and Growth of Human Corneal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Zainuddin  , Barnard Zeke , Keen Imelda , Hill David J.T. , Chirila Traian V. , Harkin Damien G.
Published: July 2008

Converting the surface of poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) hydrogel into a cell-adhesive surface has been successfully achieved through a method based on atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) grafting. Following activation of the surface hydroxyl groups of PHEMA by bromination, surface-initiated ATRP of mono(2-methacryloyloxyethyl) phosphate (MMEP) was conducted in a methanol—water system with Cu(I)Br as catalyst at room temperature. The conversion of PHEMA hydroxyl groups to brominated isobutyryl groups and the occurrence of grafting of PMMEP were confirmed by infrared and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies. Cell attachment experiments were conducted by culturing human corneal limbal epithelial cells on the PMMEP-grafted PHEMA, and on unmodified PHEMA and tissue culture plastic for comparison. The results showed that the grafted PMMEP was homogeneously distributed, and the phosphate groups appeared to significantly promote the attachment, spreading and growth of cells, at a level comparable to the tissue culture plastic.