bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanoscale Mechanical Properties of In-Situ Tribofilms Generated from ZDDP and F-ZDDP with and without Antioxidants
Authors: Somayaji Anuradha , Mourhatch Ramoun , Aswath Pranesh B.
Published: February 2008

Tribofilms with thickness ranging from 100–200 nm were developed in-situ during wear tests using a zinc dialkyl dithiophosphates (ZDDP) and fluorinated ZDDP (F-ZDDP). The influence of the antioxidant alkylated diphenyl amine on the formation and properties of these tribofilm
is examined. Results indicate that the thickness of the tribofilms formed when F-ZDDP is used is always thicker than the tribofilm formed with ZDDP. In addition, in the presence of antioxidants the tribofilm thickness is increased. The hardness of these tribofilms in the absence of the antioxidants
is significantly higher at the near surface region (0–30 nm) when compared to the films formed in the presence of antioxidant. Nanoscratch tests conducted to examine the abrasion resistance of the tribofilms also indicate that the tribofilms formed by F-ZDDP are more resistant to scratch
compared to films formed by ZDDP. In the presence of antioxidant, tribofilms formed by F-ZDDP are significantly thicker while both films behave in a similar fashion in nanoscratch tests. Transmission electron microscopy of the wear debris formed during the tests were examined and results indicate
the nucleation and growth of nanoparticles of Fe3O4 with an approximate size of 5–10 nm embedded within an otherwise amorphous tribofilm.
Effect of Solvent Refractive Index on the Surface Plasmon Resonance Nanoparticle Optical Absorption
Authors: Ertas Gulay , Suzer Sefik
Published: February 2008

Optical properties of plasmon coupled silver and gold nanoparticles were studied as a function of the refractive index of the surrounding medium. Our studies confirmed that the effect of changes in the refractive index of the surrounding medium was more difficult to demonstrate from
an experimental point of view, because of the very high susceptibility of nanoparticles to aggregate in aqueous and organic solvents. Whereas the position of the absorption bands of triiodide in these solvents shows a clear dependence on medium's refractive index, the surface plasmon band
position of silver and gold nanoparticles do not exhibit the same dependence. This is attributed to a non-negligible interaction of these solvents with nanoparticle surfaces.
Surface Plasmon Resonance in Nanocrystalline Gold–Copper Alloy Films
Authors: Hussain S. , Datta Subhadeep , Roy R. K. , Pal A. K.
Published: February 2008

Nanocrystalline Aux Cu1–x films were synthesized by depositing Cu/Au/Cu multilayer in nanocrystalline thin film form with requisite thickness of individual layers onto fused silica substrates by high pressure sputtering technique. The absorbance
spectra showed only one surface plasmon peak for all the compositions with the exception that the peak position did not indicate gradual shift as gold concentration was increased. Peak position for the two compositions corresponding to the two superlattice structures, AuCu3 and
AuCu, deviated significantly from linear variation. The experimental results have been discussed in light of the existing Mie theory and the Core-shell model.
Growth of Tin Dioxide Nanobelts Via Au-Catalytic VLS Process
Authors: Fang Zhen , Tang Kaibin , Shen Jianmin , Lei Shuijin , Liu Xinzheng , Yang Qing
Published: February 2008

Ultra-long (several millimeters) tin dioxide SnO2 nanobelts were prepared by chemical vapor deposition at 850 °C. The X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) indicated that the as-prepared sample is tetragonal phase SnO2; field emission scanning electron microscopy
(FESEM) reveals the as-prepared SnO2 is uniform nanobelts; transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) studies show the nanobelts is monocrystalline with width of hundreds of nanometers and growth along [101] crystal direction;
X-ray energy-dispersive spectrometer (EDS) and photoluminescence (PL) spectrum were used to detail its composition and optical properties. The possible formation mechanism of these ultra-long nanobelts was also proposed on the basis of experiments.
Mapping Bacterial Surface Layers Affinity to Polyelectrolytes Through the Building of Hybrid Macromolecular Structures
Authors: Delcea Mihaela , Krastev Rumen , Gutlebert Thomas , Pum Dietmar , Sleytr Uwe B. , Toca-Herrera José L.
Published: February 2008

A novel hybrid sandwich-like supramolecular structure (polyelectrolyte multilayer/S-layer/polyelectrolyte multilayer/S-layer) has been built by combining polyelectrolyte multilayer deposition and self-assembly of isolated SbpA proteins from Bacillus sphaericus CCM2177. Neutron
reflectometry measurements were used to confirm the formation of an S-layer on negative poly(styrene sulphonate) (PSS) terminated multilayers, further adsorption of cationic poly(allylamine hydrochloride) polyelectrolyte on the exposed S-layer surface, and final polyelectrolyte multilayer
deposition. Surface topography investigations with atomic force microscopy showed that: (i) the two dimensional structure of the S-layer is similar to those found in bacteria, (ii) cationic poly(allylamine hydrochloride) adsorbs on the bacterial protein side that faces the aqueous media, and
(iii) anionic poly(styrene sulphonate) does not adsorb on the S-layer surface. Mechanical stability studies on recrystallized S-layers on anionic negative poly(styrene sulphonate) reveal that loads of 20 nN are able to unfold the S-layer protein. A second adsorption of SbpA monomers on top
of a structure composed of polyelectrolyte multilayer/S-layer/polyelectrolyte multilayer led to the formation of S-layers patches mechanically stable for loads up to 9 nN. This hybrid polymer-protein supramolecular complex has permitted to elucidate the nature of the affinity of the bacterial
cell surface protein to polyelectrolytes.
A Simple Route to Synthesis of SrCO3 with Olive-Like and Flower-Like Morphologies
Authors: Ma Ming-Guo , Zhu Ying-Jie
Published: February 2008

SrCO3 with an olive-like or flower-like morphology has been successfully synthesized by a microwave-assisted method using Sr(NO3)2 and (NH4)2CO3 in ethylene glycol (EG)or water. The solvent plays an important role in
the size and morphology of SrCO3. The products were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM). This method is simple, fast, low-cost, and suitable for large-scale production.
Synthesis, Characterization of Bimetallic V-Fe-SBA-15 and Its Catalytic Performance in the Hydroxylation of Phenol
Authors: Gao Fei , Zhang Yanhua , Wang Chunling , Wu Cheng , Kong Yan , Zhao Bin , Dong Lin , Chen Yi
Published: February 2008

A series of V-Fe incorporated-SBA-15 has been synthesized by adjustment of the pH value of the gel mixtures and characterized by using XRD, N2-adsorption, ICP, FT-IR, Raman, and UV–vis techniques. Results indicated that all samples exhibited typical hexagonal arrangement
of mesoporous structure with high surface areas and the heteroatoms were probably incorporated into the framework of SBA-15. Catalytic performances of the obtained materials were evaluated in the hydroxylation of phenol with H2O2, and the catalytic results revealed that
the selectivity for catechol (CAT) and hydroquinone (HQ) could be controlled by adjusting the contents of V and Fe in the samples, and an appropriate nV/nFe mol ratio in SBA-15 could approach the optimal catalytic performance.
Detecting Genomic Aberrations by Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization with Quantum Dots-Labeled Probes
Authors: Jiang Zhengran , Li Ruiyun , Todd Nevins W. , Stass Sanford A. , Jiang Feng
Published: February 2008

Detection of genomic alterations of cancer genes by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) will provide important information for cancer diagnosis and therapy. To effectively and reliably detect the genomic changes, we prepared novel FISH probes by directly conjugating genomic
DNA of genes to semiconductor quantum dot fluorophores (QDs). The generated QD-genomic probes are substantially more photostable than the probes labeled with organic dye and show high intensity in both metaphase and interphase cell. The directly labeling probes allow detection of genomic targets
in a fast and simple FISH procedure with high sensitivity and specificity. Furthermore, application of the QD-genomic probes in lung cancer specimens can reliably visualize gene amplification in cancer cells. These results suggest that the QD-FISH probes may offer an effective approach to
analyze cancer-related genomic aberrations in basic research and clinical applications.
Thermoplastic Olefin/Clay Nanocomposites. Effect of Matrix Composition, and Organoclay and Compatibilizer Structure on Morphology/Properties Relationships
Authors: Silva S. M. L. , López-Manchado M. A. , Arroyo M.
Published: February 2008

The effect of different nanofillers and compatibilizers (maleic anhydride-grafted-polypropylene and maleic anhydride-grafted-ethylene propylene diene terpolymer rubber) on the morphology, mechanical, mechanodynamical and thermal characteristics of thermoplastic olefins based on polypropylene
and ethylene propylene diene terpolymer rubber blends has been analysed. A better affinity with the matrix and a better dispersion of the nanoparticles is observed in rubber rich matrices. Organoclay, such as Cloisite C15A and Cloisite C20A, treated with a non-polar surfactant give rise to
intercalated nanocomposites, and the lower the concentration of surfactant (C20A) the most noticeable increase in interlayer spacing and consequently better properties in the nanocomposites. The maleic anhydride-grafted-ethylene propylene diene terpolymer rubber is a better compatibilizer
for organo-clay nanocomposites based on rubber rich matrices.
Buckling of Carbon Nanotubes: A Literature Survey
Authors: Wang C. Y. , Zhang Y. Y. , Wang C. M. , Tan V. B. C.
Published: February 2008

This survey paper comprises 5 sections. In Section 1, the reader is introduced to the world of carbon nanotubes where their structural form and properties are highlighted. Section 2 presents the various buckling behaviors exhibited by carbon nanotubes that are discovered by carbon nanotube
researchers. The main factors, such as dimensions, boundary conditions, temperature, strain rate and chirality, influencing the buckling behaviors are discussed in Section 3. Section 4 presents the continuum models, atomistic simulations and experimental techniques in studying the buckling
phenomena of carbon nanotubes. A summary as well as recommendations for future research are given in Section 5. Finally a large body of papers, over 200, is given in the reference section. It is hoped that this survey paper will provide the foundation knowledge on carbon nanotube buckling
and inspire researchers to advance the modeling, simulation and design of carbon nanotubes for practical applications.
Climatic Influences on Midwest Drought during the Twentieth Century
Authors: White Warren B. , Gershunov Alexander , Annis Jeffrey
Published: February 2008

The Dustbowl Era drought in the 1930s was the principal Midwest drought of the twentieth century, occurring primarily in late spring–summer [April–August (AMJJA)] when >70% of annual rainfall normally occurred. Another major Midwest drought occurred in the 1950s but primarily in fall–early winter [September–December (SOND)] when normal rainfall was ∼1/2 as much. Optimized canonical correlation analysis (CCA) is applied to forecast AMJJA and SOND Midwest rainfall variability in cross-validated fashion from antecedent DJF and JJA sea surface temperature (SST) variability in the surrounding oceans. These CCA models simulate (i.e., hindcast, not forecast) the Dustbowl Era drought of the 1930s and four of seven secondary AMJJA droughts (≥3-yr duration) during the twentieth century, and the principal Midwest drought of the 1950s and one of three secondary SOND droughts. Diagnosing the model canonical correlations finds the superposition of tropical Pacific cool phases of the quasi-decadal oscillation (QDO) and interdecadal oscillation (IDO) responsible for secondary droughts in AMJJA when ENSO was weak and finds the eastern equatorial Pacific cool phase of the ENSO responsible for secondary droughts during SOND when ENSO was strong. These explain why secondary droughts in AMJJA occurred more often (nearly every decade) and were of longer duration than secondary droughts in SOND when decadal drought tendencies were usually interrupted by ENSO. These diagnostics also find the AMJJA Dustbowl Era drought in the 1930s and the principal SOND drought in the 1950s driven primarily by different phases (i.e., in quadrature) of the pentadecadal signal in the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO).
Climate Anomalies Induced by the Arctic and Antarctic Oscillations: Glacial Maximum and Present-Day Perspectives
Authors: Justino F. , Peltier W. R.
Published: February 2008

Based on multicentury coupled climate simulations of both modern and glacial maximum conditions, this study focuses on the impact of the Arctic Oscillation (AO) and the Antarctic Oscillation (AAO) on the earth’s surface climate. Intercomparison of the results obtained in numerical experiments for both climate epochs demonstrates that highly significant changes of surface climate are predicted to have occurred depending upon the phase of the AO and AAO. These climate anomalies differ substantially between the modern and Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) states and exhibit a strong seasonal cycle under the latter conditions. Additional investigation has revealed that an intensification of the subtropical gyres in the North Atlantic and North Pacific that are induced during the positive phase of the AO plays a key role in the development of positive sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies in midlatitudes. In the Southern Hemisphere, similarly significant and systematic climate shifts are shown to occur due to variations of the Antarctic Oscillation that are highlighted by a warming over the Antarctic Peninsula and midlatitudes during the positive phase of the AAO. Finally, the authors find that the temporal variability of the AO and of the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO) is significantly anticorrelated, with this coupling being independent of the season under present-day conditions. Under LGM conditions, however, due to the intensified vigor of the atmospheric circulation, the coupling is found to be stronger during boreal winter.
Transient Atmospheric Response to Interactive SST Anomalies
Authors: Ferreira David , Frankignoul Claude
Published: February 2008

The transient atmospheric response to interactive SST anomalies in the midlatitudes is investigated using a three-layer QG model coupled in perpetual winter conditions to a slab oceanic mixed layer in the North Atlantic. The SST anomalies are diagnosed from a coupled run and prescribed as initial conditions, but are free to evolve. The initial evolution of the atmospheric response is similar to that obtained with a prescribed SST anomaly, starting as a quasi-linear baroclinic and then quickly evolving into a growing equivalent barotropic one. Because of the heat flux damping, the SST anomaly amplitude slowly decreases, albeit with little change in pattern. Correspondingly, the atmospheric response only increases until it reaches a maximum amplitude after about 1–3.5 months, depending on the SST anomaly considered. The response is similar to that at equilibrium in the fixed SST case, but it is 1.5–2 times smaller, and then slowly decays away.
Relations between Northward Ocean and Atmosphere Energy Transports in a Coupled Climate Model
Authors: Vellinga Michael , Wu Peili
Published: February 2008

The Third Hadley Centre Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere General Circulation Model (HadCM3) is used to analyze the relation between northward energy transports in the ocean and atmosphere at centennial time scales. In a transient water-hosing experiment, where suppressing the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (MOC) causes a reduction in northward ocean heat transport of up to 0.75 PW (i.e., 75%), the atmosphere compensates by increasing its northward transport of moist static energy. This compensation is very efficient at low latitudes and near complete at the equator throughout the experiment, but is incomplete farther north across the northern midlatitude storm tracks. The change in atmosphere energy transport enables the model to find a new global-mean radiative equilibrium after 240 yr.

In a perturbed physics ensemble of HadCM3 it was found that time-averaged meridional energy transports in ocean and atmosphere can act opposingly. Where model formulation causes an unbalanced mean climate state, for example, an excessive top-of-the-atmosphere radiative surplus at low latitudes, the atmosphere increases its poleward energy transport to disperse this excess. MOC and ocean poleward heat transport tend to be reduced in such model versions, and this offsets the increased poleward atmospheric transport of the low-latitude energy surplus. Model versions that are close to net radiative equilibrium also have ocean heat transport and MOC close to observed values.
Global Trends and Variability in Soil Moisture and Drought Characteristics, 1950–2000, from Observation-Driven Simulations of the Terrestrial Hydrologic Cycle
Authors: Sheffield Justin , Wood Eric F.
Published: February 2008

Global and regional trends in drought for 1950–2000 are analyzed using a soil moisture–based drought index over global terrestrial areas, excluding Greenland and Antarctica. The soil moisture fields are derived from a simulation of the terrestrial hydrologic cycle driven by a hybrid reanalysis–observation forcing dataset. Drought is described in terms of various statistics that summarize drought duration, intensity, and severity. There is an overall small wetting trend in global soil moisture, forced by increasing precipitation, which is weighted by positive soil moisture trends over the Western Hemisphere and especially in North America. Regional variation is nevertheless apparent, and significant drying over West Africa, as driven by decreasing Sahel precipitation, stands out. Elsewhere, Europe appears to have not experienced significant changes in soil moisture, a trait shared by Southeast and southern Asia. Trends in drought duration, intensity, and severity are predominantly decreasing, but statistically significant changes are limited in areal extent, of the order of 1.0%–7.0% globally, depending on the variable and drought threshold, and are generally less than 10% of continental areas. Concurrent changes in drought spatial extent are evident, with a global decreasing trend of between −0.021% and −0.035% yr−1. Regionally, drought spatial extent over Africa has increased and is dominated by large increases over West Africa. Northern and East Asia show positive trends, and central Asia and the Tibetan Plateau show decreasing trends. In South Asia all trends are insignificant. Drought extent over Australia has decreased. Over the Americas, trends are uniformly negative and mostly significant.

Within the long-term trends there are considerable interannual and decadal variations in soil moisture and drought characteristics for most regions, which impact the robustness of the trends. Analysis of detrended and smoothed soil moisture time series reveals that the leading modes of variability are associated with sea surface temperatures, primarily in the equatorial Pacific and secondarily in the North Atlantic. Despite the overall wetting trend there is a switch since the 1970s to a drying trend, globally and in many regions, especially in high northern latitudes. This is shown to be caused, in part, by concurrent increasing temperatures. Although drought is driven primarily by variability in precipitation, projected continuation of temperature increases during the twenty-first century indicate the potential for enhanced drought occurrence.
Effects of Twenty-First-Century Climate Change on the Amazon Rain Forest
Authors: Cook Kerry H. , Vizy Edward K.
Published: February 2008

A regional atmospheric model with 60-km resolution is asynchronously coupled with a potential vegetation model to study the implications of twenty-first-century climate change for the tropical and subtropical climate and vegetation of South America. The coupled model produces an accurate simulation of the present day climate and vegetation. Future climate is simulated by increasing atmospheric CO2 levels to 757 ppmv and imposing lateral and surface boundary conditions derived from a GCM simulation for 2081–2100 from the Canadian Climate Center GCM.

The coupled regional model simulation projects a 70% reduction in the extent of the Amazon rain forest by the end of the twenty-first century and a large eastward expansion of the caatinga vegetation that is prominent in the Nordeste region of Brazil today. These changes in vegetation are related to reductions in annual mean rainfall and a modification of the seasonal cycle that are associated with a weakening of tropical circulation systems.
Measurements of Boundary Layer Profiles with In Situ Sensors and Doppler Lidar
Authors: Frehlich Rod , Meillier Yannick , Jensen Michael L.
Published: February 2008

A new in situ measurement system and lidar processing algorithms were developed for improved measurements of boundary layer profiles. The first comparisons of simultaneous Doppler lidar–derived profiles of the key turbulence statistics of the two orthogonal horizontal velocity components (longitudinal and transverse) are presented. The instrument requirements for accurate observations of stably stratified turbulence were determined. A region of stably stratified low turbulence with constant gradients of temperature and velocity was observed above the nocturnal boundary layer using high-rate sensors. The important turbulence parameters were estimated, and turbulence spectra were consistent with new theoretical descriptions of stratified turbulence. The impact of removing the larger-scale velocity features in Doppler lidar estimates of turbulent velocity variance and length scales was investigated. The Doppler lidar–derived estimates of energy dissipation rate ε were found to be insensitive to spatial filtering of the large-scale atmospheric processes. The in situ and lidar-derived profiles were compared for the stable boundary layer in a suburban environment.
Four-Dimensional Variational Data Analysis of Water Vapor Raman Lidar Data and Their Impact on Mesoscale Forecasts
Authors: Grzeschik Matthias , Bauer Hans-Stefan , Wulfmeyer Volker , Engelbart Dirk , Wandinger Ulla , Mattis Ina , Althausen Dietrich , Engelmann Ronny , Tesche Matthias , Riede Andrea
Published: February 2008

The impact of water vapor observations on mesoscale initial fields provided by a triangle of Raman lidar systems covering an area of about 200 km × 200 km is investigated. A test case during the Lindenberg Campaign for Assessment of Humidity and Cloud Profiling Systems and its Impact on High-Resolution Modeling (LAUNCH-2005) was chosen. Evaluation of initial water vapor fields derived from ECMWF analysis revealed that in the model the highly variable vertical structure of water vapor profiles was not recovered and vertical gradients were smoothed out. Using a 3-h data assimilation window and a resolution of 10–30 min, continuous water vapor data from these observations were assimilated in the fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–NCAR Mesoscale Model (MM5) by means of a four-dimensional variational data analysis (4DVAR). A strong correction of the vertical structure and the absolute values of the initial water vapor field of the order of 1 g kg−1 was found. This occurred mainly upstream of the lidar systems within an area, which was comparable with the domain covered by the lidar systems. The correction of the water vapor field was validated using independent global positioning system (GPS) sensors. Much better agreement to GPS zenith wet delay was achieved with the initial water vapor field after 4DVAR. The impact region was transported with the mean wind and was still visible after 4 h of free forecast time.
Introducing the Politics of Stakeholder Influence
Authors: de Bakker Frank G. A. , den Hond Frank
Published: February 2008

If stakeholder theory is to become a full theory of business—society relationships, it will have to develop a better understanding of processes by which stakeholders may gain and hold influence over firms. A better understanding of the political processes involved is required. This paper—as well as the papers in this special issue—takes a political `view' to addressing the issue, and thereby extends the currently dominant demographic and structural approaches. It suggests that the influence of stakeholders over firms is the temporary outcome of processes of action, reaction, and interaction among various parties. Consequently, the further advancement of stakeholder theory would benefit from the adoption of process-research methods and thinking.
Frames and Filters
Authors: Derry Robbin , Waikar Sachin V.
Published: February 2008

Despite growing interest in the dynamics and influences of activist groups, few studies have examined the specific tactics used by activists to achieve legitimacy and how these actions affect target firms or industries. This article studies the history and current state of the battle between tobacco control groups and Big Tobacco in search of evidence for their use of framing—a process of generating shared meaning and purpose through the creation of overarching messages—as a vehicle for carrying out their mission, achieving legitimacy, and thwarting the efforts of adversaries. The authors propose that both sides marshal specific core frames in service of broader master frames, namely the projection of honesty and trustworthiness for the tobacco industry, countered by public health's master frame of distrust of the industry. The evolution of this battle may also be understood within the framework of a two-factor model of trust and distrust; the authors assert that the relationship between tobacco control and the industry will likely continue as one of low trust/high distrust, in part because the master frame of distrust has served multiple purposes for public health activists, including the establishment of greater legitimacy with the public and, by proxy, with the target industry. Several specific conclusions are drawn regarding the functions of distrust and the relationship between framing, trust, and legitimacy.
An Investigation of Diachronic Change in Communication Accommodation
Authors: Heffernan Kevin
Published: February 2008

This article examines Japanese adaptations of American movie titles over the past 60 years. The results show a continuous increase in the use of loanwords, nonce (i.e., one-interaction only) borrowings, and transliterations from one decade to the next. The results are interpreted as increased accommodation to English.
The Relationship Between First Names and Teacher Expectations for Achievement Motivation
Authors: Anderson-Clark Tracy N. , Green Raymond J. , Henley Tracy B.
Published: February 2008

This study examines perceptions of achievement motivation as influenced by first name and student ethnicity. One hundred thirty elementary school teachers were given a vignette of a fifth-grade student and instructed to judge the behavior and characteristics of the student. Results showed that there was a significant main effect for an ethnic first name. Overall, significantly lower achievement scores were given by raters whose descriptions used an African American-sounding name rather than a Caucasian-sounding name.
The Political Economy of Meritocracy: A Post-Kaleckian, Post-Olsonian Approach to Unemployment and Income Inequality in Modern Varieties of Capitalism
Authors: Heise Arne
Published: February 2008

The “big trade-off,” described by Arthur Okun some thirty years ago, is back again: equality or efficiency, or to put it differently, modern highly developed economies and societies have to choose between the Scylla of income inequality and the Charybdis of unemployment. Furthermore, it looks like the continental European economies—foremost Germany and France—sided with more egalitarian ends accepting higher unemployment while the liberal economies such as the United States and the United Kingdom chose higher inequality for lower unemployment. In this paper it is argued that the trade-off is not a supply-side necessity to maintain work effort in a situation of incomplete contracts, but is a politico-economic issue of particular interest groups seeking rents. However, unlike in Mancur Olson's seminal approach, it is not the trade unions that are forming distributional coalitions on the labor market, but rather the meritocracy which is happy to use Keynesian-type demand management to advance their material interests by pursuing a “meritocratically optimal rate of unemployment” (MORU).
The Southern African Famine and Genetically Modified Food Aid: The Ramifications for the United States and European Union's Trade War
Authors: Herrick Clare
Published: February 2008

The 2002 southern African famine marked a new phase in the long-standing trade war between the United States and the European Union over genetically modified organisms. This work will explore how the delivery of genetically modified food aid to the region concretized the ontological disparities between the two trading blocs. In addition, I argue that genetically modified crops necessitate not only new development policy, but new ways of theorizing development itself in the light of globalized systems of food production.
The “Macro-monetary” Interpretation of Marx's Theory: A Reply to Ravagnani's Critique
Authors: Moseley Fred
Published: February 2008

This paper responds to Ravagnani's critique of my “macro-monetary” interpretation of Marx's theory. The first section briefly reviews the key points of my interpretation, with special emphasis on the determination of the initial inputs of constant capital and variable capital. The second section replies to Ravagnani's criticism that my interpretation is subject to a severe “analytical limitation.” The third section presents a brief summary of the textual evidence related to the determination of constant capital and variable capital in Marx's theory. The final section makes a radical suggestion for consensus.
Population Forecast Errors
Authors: Rayer Stefan
Published: February 2008

Projections of future populations are integral to many planning applications, yet are often poorly understood. This analysis focuses on the implications of the choices planners make when they construct projections. Specifically, it examines the impact of length of base period, analyzes the error structure of projection techniques for counties in the aggregate and by size and growth rates, investigates the role of averaging, and compares the performance of trend extrapolation and cohort—component methods. The article concludes by discussing forecast complexity, data quality, the role of assumptions, and other considerations of forecasting in a planning context.
Synthesis of an Amphiphilic Polysaccharide Derivative and Its Micellization for Drug Release
Authors: Lu Hong-Wei , Zhang Li-Ming , Liu Ji-Yan , Chen Ru-Fu
Published: February 2008

A new route for the synthesis of novel amphiphilic polysaccharides was developed, in which a synthetic biodegradable poly(ε-caprolactone) was capped with a phenylalanine group (PCL-phenylalanine). The ring-opening polymerization of ε-caprolactone (ε-CL) was carried out in the absence of a metal catalyst with L-phenylalanine as the initiator; this was followed by a coupling reaction with biodegradable dextran in the presence of carbonyldimidazole. The FTIR and 1H NMR analyses confirm the coupling reaction. Fluorescence, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) confirm that in aqueous solution the amphiphilic polysaccharides self-assemble into the nanoscale spherical micelles with good stability. The in vitro drug release behavior of the nonsteroidal indomethacin drug exhibits sustained drug release profile as described by the Higuchi model without a burst effect.
A Novel Salted-out and Subsequently Crosslinked Poly(Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid) Polymeric Scaffold Applied to Monolithic Drug Delivery
Authors: Sibambo Sibongile R. , Pillay Viness , Choonara Yahya E. , Penny Clement
Published: February 2008

This study involved a statistical approach to develop a mechanistic understanding of the salting-out of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and to evaluate the capacity to modulate the physicochemical and physicomechanical properties of PLGA by incorporating electrolytes that produce stochastic fluctuations. The correlation between the three types of salts used and the extent of PLGA chain transitions were established by structural-thermal analysis. Drug-loaded monolithic matrices are prepared by direct compressing salted-out PLGA and a model drug (melatonin). PLGA scaffolds possess fiber diameters and volumes ranging between 0.1—15 μm and 0.0075—14,000 μm3 , respectively. Texture profile analysis reveal a significant increase in the energy absorbed and matrix resilience with increased NaCl2 and AlCl3 concentrations. In vitro drug release studies were performed in phosphate buffered saline (pH 7.4; 37°C); the release media was sampled at pre-determined intervals and analyzed by UV spectroscopy. Ideal zero-order drug release profiles were observed with 20% melatonin over a 30-day period. Monolithic matrices prepared by crosslinking melatonin with PLGA reveal a superior capability to control drug release. The salting-out and subsequent crosslinking of PLGA significantly modified the physicochemical and physicomechanical properties of native PLGA and demonstrated the ability to achieve controlled drug release.
Preparation and in vitro Evaluation of Linear and Star-branched PLGA Nanoparticles for Insulin Delivery
Authors: Davaran Soodabeh , Omidi Yadollah , Mohammad Reza Rashidi  , Anzabi Maryam , Shayanfar Ali , Ghyasvand Sohrab , Vesal Nezamaldin , Davaran Farzaneh
Published: February 2008

Biodegradable nanoparticles, as drug delivery paradigms, have been extensively used for delivery of a wide range of small molecules as well as macromolecules, such as peptides, proteins, and genes. The morphological modification may improve the physicochemical characteristics of the biodegradable polymers. In the current investigation, the synthesis and characterization of linear, poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA)-poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG-PLGA), star-branched β-cyclodextrin-PLGA (β-CD-PLGA), and glucose-PLGA (Glu-PLGA) copolymers containing insulin as a model peptide drug have been reported. Linear and star-branched copolymers of PLGA were synthesized by bulk melt polymerization of the lactones (lactide and glycolide) in the presence of PEG, glucose, or β-CD using Sn-octoate as catalyst. Nanoparticles were prepared by a modified (w1/o/w 2) double emulsion method. Bovine insulin was successfully encapsulated into the linear and star-branched PLGA nanoparticles with retention of insulin stability and the nanoparticles preparation process was optimized to reduce the burst effect and provide in vitro sustained release. The average particle size of samples was 120—355 nm. The cumulative amount of 65—84% insulin was released from the samples after 24 days. The yield of encapsulation of insulin was superior to 95%. Based on these findings, it is suggested that the novel PLGA nanoparticles can be used as a carrier for prolonged delivery of protein—peptide drugs.
Effect of Chitosans and Other Excipients on the Permeation of Ketotifen, FITC-Dextran, and Rhodamine 123 through Caco-2 Cells
Authors: Bejugam N.K. , Sou M. , Uddin A.N. , Gayakwad S.G. , D'Souza M.J.
Published: February 2008

The determination of drug permeability is an important part of formulation, development, and studying the effect of excipients on drug delivery processes. Ketotifen, FITC-labeled dextran, and Rhodamine 123 permeation was evaluated across Caco-2 cells grown on permeable inserts in the presence of chitosan, N,O-carboxymethyl chitosan (NOCC), Carbopol 934P, Polysorbate 80, and Disodium edetate. Samples with chitosan decrease in transepithelial electrical resistance in a concentration dependent manner not seen with the other excipients used. This corresponds with significant improvement of paracellular permeation of FITC-dextran and Rhodamine 123 compared to the control (p<0.005) but Ketotifen permeation with chitosan does not show statistically significant improvement as compared to the control. Although Rhodamine 123 is a known p-glycoprotein substrate, this data would indicate that the p-glycoprotein transport system is not the rate limiting factor in Rhodamine 123 permeation. Ketotifen permeation is improved slightly in the presence of NOCC, Polysorbate 80, and Disodium edetate. These excipients have been associated with improved transcellular permeation. Carbopol 934P does not improve any of the drug models' permeation. These results clearly show the effectiveness of using Caco-2 cells for screening formulations and excipients for drug development.
A Microspheric System: Hemicellulose-based Hydrogels
Authors: Edlund U. , Albertsson A.-C.
Published: February 2008

Hydrogel microspheres were prepared from the major softwood hemicellulose polysaccharide acetylated galactoglucomannan. The dry and swollen morphology was assessed by scanning electron microscopy. The microspheres were loaded with either a small hydrophilic substance (caffeine) or a macromolecular model protein (bovine serum albumin) and afforded diffusion controlled release in vitro. Statistical multivariate analysis was used to systematically determine the influence and significance of the hydrogel composition, the crosslinking density, and the dimensions of the incorporated substance on the microsphere size and release rate.
The Political Economy of Trade Union Strategies in Austria and Germany: The Case of Call Centres
Authors: Holst Hajo
Published: February 2008

This article offers a systematic comparison of strategic responses of Austrian and German unions to an emergent sector. It aims to increase understanding of both union movements, and also to contribute conceptually to the study of the varieties of unionism. The concept of `core strategies' facilitates more systematic comparisons of unions' strategic responses to apparently similar challenges and helps explain why — despite many similarities in their industrial relations systems and the uniform development of the call centre sector in both countries — the strategic responses of Austrian and German unions differ remarkably in terms of content, priority and timing.
German Trade Unions and Right Extremism: Understanding Membership Attitudes
Authors: Fichter Michael
Published: February 2008

Right-wing populism and extremism present challenges for trade unions throughout Europe. This article reports findings from a representative survey and group interviews with union members in Germany. Far right attitudes are neither more nor less widespread among union members as a whole than in the population at large, but there are considerable differences within the membership. In particular, skilled workers as well as middle managers who are union members are significantly more inclined to extremist attitudes than non-unionists. The article discusses these results and presents several conclusions regarding future trade union policy.
Do children with lupus have fewer male siblings?
Authors: Moorthy L.N. , Peterson M.G.E. , Onel K.B. , Lehman T.J.A.
Published: February 2008

It is widely acknowledged that genetic factors play a significant role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, the female preponderance remains unexplained. We hypothesized that the female preponderance in childhood SLE results from selection early in the course of conception against male fetuses bearing genetic material predisposing to SLE. If this hypothesis is accurate, there should be a decreased number of male children in families with a child with SLE. Alternatively, children with SLE would have fewer male siblings. Further, this hypothesis may apply to other diseases with a female predominance such as pauciarticular onset juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (PaJRA), and not apply to diseases without female preponderance such as systemic onset juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (SoJRA). Chart review of patients with childhood onset SLE and PaJRA revealed a greater number of female children in these families compared with families of patients with SoJRA. Large-scale epidemiologic studies with precise counting of miscarriages and abortions could help to confirm these findings. Detailed studies of genetic and maternal intrauterine factors are required to conclusively prove this hypothesis. Lupus (2008) 17, 128—131.
Carotid atherosclerotic alterations in systemic lupus erythematosus patients treated at a Brazilian university setting
Authors: Telles RW , Lanna Ccd , Ferreira GA , Souza AJ , Navarro TP , Ribeiro AL
Published: February 2008

To determine the frequency of carotid plaque and intima-media thickness (IMT) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and their association with risk factors in a Brazilian university setting. Carotid plaque and IMT were identified and measured by ultrasonography. Traditional risk factors and lupus-related factors were analysed. One hundred and seventy-two patients (women = 96%, age = 38 ± 11 years) were evaluated. The frequency of carotid plaque was 9.3%. The median (IR) IMT was 0.60 mm (0.54—0.71 mm). Age, family history (FH) of premature coronary disease, low-density cholesterol (LDL-c) >100 mg/dL, hypertriglyceridemia, diabetes, hypertension, smoking, postmenopause, number of risk factors, Framingham risk score, age at diagnosis, duration of lupus, mucocutaneous manifestations and duration of prednisone use were associated with plaque ( P < 0.05), univariate analysis. Nephritis, immunosuppressive therapy, intravenous methylprednisolone and a higher average daily dose of prednisone were associated with the absence of plaque. Independent predictors of plaque were smoking ( P = 0.004), LDL-c >100 mg/dL ( P = 0.044), Framingham score ( P = 0.006) and absence of immunosuppressive therapy ( P = 0.032). There was an independent correlation between IMT and age ( P < 0.001) and duration of prednisone use ( P = 0.020). Subclinical atherosclerosis was associated with traditional risk and SLE-related factors, especially the absence of immunosuppressive therapy. The present study suggests that the levels of LDL-c should be kept under 100mg/dL in lupus. Lupus (2008) 17, 105—113.
Aerobic capacity correlates to self-assessed physical function but not to overall disease activity or organ damage in women with systemic lupus erythematosus with low-to-moderate disease activity and organ damage
Authors: Boström C. , Dupré B. , Tengvar P. , Jansson E. , Opava CH , Lundberg IE
Published: February 2008

The present aim is to investigate the relationships between aerobic capacity and disease activity, organ damage, health-related quality of life (HRQL) and physical activity in 34 women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with low-to-moderate disease activity and organ damage. Mean age was 51 (SD 10) years, disease duration 17 (SD 11) years. Aerobic capacity (maximal oxygen uptake/VO2 max) was measured with a bicycle ergometer exercise test. Overall disease activity was assessed with Systemic Lupus Activity Measure (SLAM) and the modified Systemic Lupus Erythematosus-Disease Activity Index (modified SLE-DAI), overall organ damage with the Systemic Lupus International Collaboration Clinics/American College of Rheumatology-Damage Index, [SLICC/(ACR)-DI], HRQL with the 36-item Short-form health-survey (SF-36) and physical activity with a self-assessed question. The women who were low-to-moderately physically active had 89—92% ( P ≤ 0.001) of VO2 max predicted for sedentary women. Maximal oxygen uptake (L/min, mL/min/kg) correlated to SF-36 physical function ( rs = 0.49, rs = 0.72) ( P ≤ 0.01), but not ( rs ≤ 0.25) to other HRQL scales, overall disease activity or organ damage or physical activity. The correlation between aerobic capacity and physical function and the absence of correlation between aerobic capacity and physical activity, suggest a possible disease-related factor behind the low aerobic capacity. However, with no correlation between aerobic capacity and overall disease activity and organ damage, low physical activity may contribute to the low aerobic capacity in our sample. Lupus (2008) 17, 100—104.
Predictors of high sensitivity C-reactive protein levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Lee S-S. , Singh S. , Magder LS , Petri M.
Published: February 2008

Despite the increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), little is known about the role of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) or whether ethnicity, gender, anthropometric measures and treatment can alter hsCRP levels. We evaluated the effects of treatment and demographic, anthropometric and socio-economic variables on hsCRP levels in SLE. High sensitivity C-reactive protein levels were measured using an immunoturbidimetric assay in 610 patients from the Hopkins Lupus Cohort, who were followed-up regularly. In stepwise multiple regression analyses, body mass index (BMI) [odds ratio (OR) 1.72, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.34—2.20, P < 0.001], African-American ethnicity (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.22—3.19, P < 0.01), education (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.42—0.86, P < 0.01), statin use (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.18—0.82, P < 0.05), estrogen use (OR 3.65, 95% CI 1.19—11.22, P < 0.05), SLE Disease Activity Index score (OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.09—2.87, P < 0.05) and cumulative prednisone dose (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.01—1.60, P < 0.05) were significant predictors of hsCRP levels. These findings suggest that hsCRP levels should be adjusted for BMI, ethnicity, education level, disease activity and medications when conducting cardiovascular risk assessment in patients with lupus. Lupus (2008) 17, 114—123.
Improving the prognosis of SLE without prescribing lupus drugs and the primary care paradox
Authors: Wallace D.J.
Published: February 2008

The outcome, quality of life and prognosis of lupus patients can be enhanced with close follow up and coordination between the individual's primary care physician and rheumatologist. Rheumatologists usually do not act as primary care physicians and leave health care maintenance to practitioners who need to be reminded to screen for various co-morbidities associated with inflammation and complications of medication. Rheumatologists need to take the responsibility to ensure that their lupus patients have optimal primary care access which includes a working relationship with them. Lupus (2008) 17, 91—92.
A Social Psychological Analysis of Anomie Among National Football League Players
Authors: Carter Eric M. , Carter Michael V.
Published: February 2008

This exploratory study utilized a mixed-method approach to examine why some NFL players participate in deviant, and sometimes law-breaking, behavior and others do not. The qualitative findings in conjunction with Durkheimian theory provided the conceptualization of a quantitative instrument. Through a snowball sample, 104 NFL players were interviewed and surveyed. From the qualitative data, three core themes emerged: 1) deviance, 2) anomie, and 3) social ties. Within the study group, a substantial number of players had prior experience with deviant and illegal behaviors. It appeared that some level of anomie was present in a number of these players' lives. However, players that had strong ties to various social groups appeared less likely to succumb to anomie and deviance. Supporting the qualitative data, the quantitative findings revealed that anomie was one of the significant predictors of law-breaking players. It would therefore appear reasonable to suggest that some of the players were involved in behaviors that could be labeled anomic deviance. Furthermore, the findings supported the primacy of social ties/support in buffering anomie and deviance in the lives of NFL players in the study group.