bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modification of pasting properties of wheat starch by cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase
Authors: Gujral Hardeep Singh , Rosell Cristina M
Published: August 2004

The effect of cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase (CGTase) on wheat starch functionality was assessed by determining the pasting properties and the dynamic rheology. The addition of CGTase lowered the peak and final viscosity, increased breakdown and markedly decreased the total setback. The influence of CGTase on the ability of starch to form complex with lipids was explored in the presence of fatty acids (stearic and lauric) and an emulsifier (diacetyl tartaric acid ester of monoglyceride, DATEM). Further information about the effect of CGTase on the pasting properties of wheat starch was obtained by analysing the first derivative of the viscograph curves. The cyclodextrins formed in the starch as a result of the cyclization activity of the CGTase were quantified and it was observed that α‐cyclodextrin occurred in the highest concentration followed by β‐ and γ‐cyclodextrins. The starch obtained with CGTase after pasting exhibited better emulsifying properties as it contained the cyclodextrins. The CGTase treatment also modified the dynamic rheology of the starch slurry leading to a decrease in the elastic and viscous modulus. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Mineral contents and distribution between the soluble and the micellar phases in calcium‐enriched UHT milks
Authors: de la Fuente Miguel Angel , Belloque Josefina , Juárez Manuela
Published: August 2004

A study concerning the content of mineral elements (calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium and phosphorus) and the distribution between the soluble and the micellar phases has been carried out on mineral—mainly calcium—enriched UHT milks. Total calcium contents were 1371–1793 mg l−1 in the 10 brands examined. Percentages of calcium in the soluble phase varied from 23.6 to 37.2%, whereas ionic calcium concentrations found were within a very wide range (44–91 mg l−1). The different forms of phosphorus were studied by 31P‐NMR. Spectra indicated that the majority of the brands employed polyphosphates as stabilizers. Ingredients used to fortify these products consisted of dairy fractions and calcium salts. The modifications in salt balance as consequence of these practices are discussed. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Pectic polysaccharides of mango (Mangifera indica L): structural studies
Authors: Prasanna Vasu , Prabha Tyakal N , Tharanathan Rudrapatnam N
Published: August 2004

Pectic polymers of raw and ripe mango fruits revealed several distinct fractions upon diethylaminoethyl‐cellulose chromatography. Fraction I, the arabinogalactan, had a relative ratio of 3:1 for galactose and arabinose, while the two rhamnogalacturonans (fractions II and III) were composed of galacturonic acid, arabinose, galactose and rhamnose in the relative ratios of 69:15:14:2 and 62:10:23:4, respectively. Specific rotation, FTIR, GC‐MS and NMR data revealed fraction I to be a 1→5‐α‐L arabinofuranan linked to the main chain of 1→4‐β‐D‐galactopyranan through 1→3 linkages. The carboxyl‐reduced fraction II had 1→4‐α‐D galactopyranuronic acid residues in the main chain, which were further involved in branching through rhamnose. The striking drop in their abundance and Mr at the end of ripening, denoting depolymerization in situ, is discussed in the context of textural softening. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of high‐pressure treatments on mechanical and functional properties of restructured products from arrowtooth flounder (Atheresthes stomias)
Authors: Uresti Rocío M , Velazquez Gonzalo , Ramírez José A , Vázquez Manuel , Torres J Antonio
Published: August 2004

Restructured fish products from arrowtooth flounder (Atheresthes stomias), an abundant and subutilized species from the Gulf of Alaska, were obtained by hydrostatic pressure processing (HPP) at 400 and 600 MPa with 0–5 min pressure‐holding time. Minced fish meat was massaged with 20 g kg−1 salt at 10 °C during 5 min, stuffed in commercial sausage case and HPP‐treated. Raw and cooked (90 °C for 15 min) pressure‐treated gels were characterized by changes in mechanical properties (texture profile analysis and punch test), protein solubility, electrophoretic profile, expressible water and color. The mechanical properties of raw fish gels increased with pressure level and pressure‐holding time while solubility decreased. Myosin aggregation shown by SDS‐PAGE was associated with changes in mechanical and functional properties. The values for mechanical properties of heat‐induced gels were higher in cooked pressure‐treated samples than in the heat‐only control. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Seasonal changes in olive fruit characteristics and oil accumulation during ripening process
Authors: Beltrán Gabriel , del Río Carmen , Sánchez Sebastián , Martínez Leopoldo
Published: August 2004

Olive fruits of three of the most important Spanish and Italian cultivars, ‘Picual’, ‘Hojiblanca’ and ‘Frantoio’, were harvested at bi‐weekly periods during three crop seasons to study their development and ripening process. Fresh and dry weights and ripening index were determined for fruit, while dry matter, oil and moisture contents were determined in both fruit and pulp (flesh). Fruit growth rate and oil accumulation were calculated. Each olive cultivar showed a different ripening pattern, ‘Hojiblanca’ being the last one to maturate. Fruit weight increased, decreasing its growth rate from the middle of November. Dry matter and moisture contents decreased during ripening in pulp and fruit, ‘Hojiblanca’ showing the highest values for both. Oil content, when expressed on a fresh weight basis, increased in all cultivars, although for the last time period showed variations due to climatic conditions. During ripening, oil content on a dry weight basis increased in fruit, but oil biosynthesis in flesh ceased from November. Olive fruits presented lower oil and higher dry matter contents in the year of lowest rainfall. Therefore fruit harvesting should be carried out from the middle of November in order to obtain the highest oil yield and avoid natural fruit drop. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Different postharvest dehydration rates affect quality characteristics and volatile compounds of Malvasia, Trebbiano and Sangiovese grapes for wine production
Authors: Bellincontro Andrea , De Santis Diana , Botondi Rinaldo , Villa Ivano , Mencarelli Fabio
Published: August 2004

Experiments were carried out using an innovative technology for dehydration based on the passage of air through a tunnel. It was possible to study the postharvest behaviour, at different rates of dehydration, of Malvasia, Trebbiano and Sangiovese grapes. Malvasia and Trebbiano grapes were picked with 17.5% SSC (soluble solids content), while Sangiovese grapes were harvested fully ripe with 26% SSC. All the grapes, in different experiments, were placed in the tunnel with an air speed of 1–1.5 m s−1, 42% RH (relative humidity) and a temperature of 21 °C. After 18 days the weight loss was 50 and 34% respectively in tunnel‐treated Malvasia and Trebbiano grapes, while it was only 13–14% in control grapes (outside the tunnel: RH around 65% and temperature about 20 °C without ventilation). The SSC rose to 35 and 27% respectively in tunnel‐treated Malvasia and Trebbiano grapes compared with 23 and 21% respectively in control grapes. In the case of Sangiovese grapes, after 7 days (the end of treatment) the weight loss was 20.5% in tunnel‐treated grapes and 10.5% in control grapes. The SSC rose to 32% and the acidity increased from 4.8 to 5.8 g l−1in tunnel‐treated grapes compared with 29% and 5 g l−1respectively in control grapes. Total phenols and anthocyanins almost doubled in tunnel‐treated Sangiovese berries. Volatile compound analysis revealed a higher ethanol concentration in all tunnel‐treated grapes but a lower concentration of ethyl acetate and acetic acid. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Combined use of UV‐C irradiation and heat treatment to improve postharvest life of strawberry fruit
Authors: Pan Jerónimo , Vicente Ariel R , Martínez Gustavo A , Chaves Alicia R , Civello Pedro M
Published: August 2004

The effects of UV‐C (4.1 kJ m−2) and heat treatment (45 °C, 3 h in air) either separately or combined on the quality of strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa cv Seascape) at the 75 or 50% surface red ripening stage were assessed, the latter stage being used only in the firmness test. In addition, the development of surface fungal infections was followed and in vitro germination assays on conidia of Botrytis cinerea and Rhizopus stolonifer performed. Both heat and combined treatments, decreased hue and delayed changes of the L* parameter. All treatments reduced the accumulation of anthocyanins. Control fruit softened most while fruit treated by the combined method were the firmest. The combined treatment reduced fungal infections and delayed in vitro germination of Botrytis cinerea conidia. After 2 days at 20 °C, treated fruit had lower amount of phenolics than the control. Neither the heat nor UV‐C irradiation modified the total sugar content, although the combined treatment decreased it slightly relative to the control. Titratable acidity increased through storage at 20 °C in all fruit, but no differences between control and treated fruit were detected. The combination of UV‐C and heat treatments enhanced the benefits of applying each treatment separately, and could be useful to improve and extend strawberry fruit postharvest life. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
The hydroxyl radical reaction rate constant and products of 3,5‐dimethyl‐1‐hexyn‐3‐ol
Authors: Wells J. R.
Published: August 2004

A bimolecular rate constant,kDHO, of (29 ± 9) × 10−12 cm3 molecule−1 s−1 was measured using the relative rate technique for the reaction of the hydroxyl radical (OH) with 3,5‐dimethyl‐1‐hexyn‐3‐ol (DHO, HCCC(OH)(CH3)CH2CH(CH3)2) at (297 ± 3) K and 1 atm total pressure. To more clearly define DHO's indoor environment degradation mechanism, the products of the DHO + OH reaction were also investigated. The positively identified DHO/OH reaction products were acetone ((CH3)2CO), 3‐butyne‐2‐one (3B2O, HCCC(O)(CH3)), 2‐methyl‐propanal (2MP, H(O)CCH(CH3)2), 4‐methyl‐2‐pentanone (MIBK, CH3C(O)CH2CH(CH3)2), ethanedial (GLY, HC(O)C(O)H), 2‐oxopropanal (MGLY, CH3C(O)C(O)H), and 2,3‐butanedione (23BD, CH3C(O)C(O)CH3). The yields of 3B2O and MIBK from the DHO/OH reaction were (8.4 ± 0.3) and (26 ± 2)%, respectively. The use of derivatizing agents O‐(2,3,4,5,6‐pentalfluorobenzyl)hydroxylamine (PFBHA) and N,O‐bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA) clearly indicated that several other reaction products were formed. The elucidation of these other reaction products was facilitated by mass spectrometry of the derivatized reaction products coupled with plausible DHO/OH reaction mechanisms based on previously published volatile organic compound/OH gas‐phase reaction mechanisms. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 36: 534–544, 2004
Cocatalysis by ruthenium(III) in hydrogen ions catalyzed oxidation of iodide ions: A kinetic study
Authors: Tandon Praveen K. , Mehrotra Alka , Singh Alok K. , Baboo Ramesh , Dwivedi Priy B.
Published: August 2004

RuCl3 further catalyzes the oxidation of iodide ion by K3Fe(CN)6, already catalyzed by hydrogen ions. The rate of reaction, when catalyzed only by hydrogen ions, was separated graphically from the rate when both Ru(III) and H+ ions catalyzed the reaction. Reactions studied separately in the presence as well as absence of RuCl3 under similar conditions were found to follow second‐order kinetics with respect to [I−], while the rate showed direct proportionality with respect to [Fe(CN)6]3−, [RuCl3], and [H+]. External addition of [Fe(CN)6]4− ions retards the reaction velocity, while changing the ionic strength of the medium has no effect on the rate. With the help of the intercept of the catalyst graph, the extent of the reaction that takes place without adding Ru(III) was calculated and it was in accordance with the values obtained from the reaction in which only H+ ions catalyzed the reaction. It is proposed that ruthenium forms a complex, which slowly disproportionates into the rate‐determining step. Arrhenius parameters at four different temperatures were also calculated. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 36: 545–553, 2004
Influence of aqueous phase on electrochemical biocorrosion tests in diesel/water systems
Authors: Bento F. M. , Englert G. E. , Gaylarde C. C. , Muller I. L.
Published: August 2004

Storage tanks containing microbially contaminated diesel oil are susceptible to corrosion. This process may be evaluated electrochemically in the laboratory using simulated storage systems containing diesel oil and an aqueous phase. The simulated aqueous phase must supply mineral nutrients for microbial growth, together with adequate electrical conductivity, without, however, being too corrosive, so as to allow the aggressive nature of the microbial metabolites to be detected. In this investigation, microbial growth was measured in six electrically conductive media overlaid with metropolitan diesel oil containing an additive package. The microorganisms were the filamentous fungi,Hormoconis resinae, Paecilomyces variotiiandAspergillus fumigatus, the bacteriumBacillus subtilisand the yeastCandida silvicola, all previously isolated from contaminated diesel oil. After 60 days incubation with pure or mixed inocula of these microorganisms, pH, conductivity and viable microorganisms were measured. The electrochemical behaviour of carbon steel ASTM 283‐93‐C was determined in each of the six media (uninoculated) and in selected inoculated medium via measurements of open circuit potential and potentiostatic polarization curves. The uptake of phosphate (corrosion inhibitor), microbial growth, pH, conductivity and anodic and cathodic polarization curves were assessed in the water phase after 30 and 60 days of incubation with each single speciesAspergillus fumigatusandHormoconis resinaeand with the consortium. The medium which proved most appropriate was Bushnell‐Haas medium modified by the omission of chlorides, which allowed satisfactory microbial growth and had low aggressivity towards the steel. The performance of electrochemical tests in aerated, rather than deaerated, electrolyte solutions is suggested to be important to allow the detection of microbial influence on passive film formation and stability.
Corrosion behaviour of zirconium electrode in sodium azide electrolyte as compared to the alkali halide solutions
Authors: Ghoneim A. A.
Published: August 2004

The kinetics of open circuit growth of an oxide film on zirconium electrode in NaN3 solution of various concentrations was investigated using potential and capacitance measurements. The protective oxide film formed in azide solutions was found to thicken with time in two steps, the rate of oxide growth was found to decrease as the azide concentration increased. The corrosion behaviour of the electrode was characterized by ac impedance measurements to obtain detailed information about the effect of azide ion concentration on the electrical properties of the Zr electrode surface. The impedance response for the metal‐metal oxide‐electrolyte system was modeled with a transfer function. The potentiodynamic oxidation of Zr was also studied as a function of the azide ion concentration. The polarization curves showed the peak‐shaped active‐to‐passive transition and the corrosion rate was found to increase with increase of azide ion concentration. The activation energy of corrosion was calculated according to Arrhenius plot and found to be 14.5 kJ mol−1. The polarization results in azide solutions were compared to those obtained in solutions of different halide ions, namely, F−, Cl−, Br− and I− ions. The rate of corrosion was found to decrease in the order Br− > Cl− > F−, I− > azide. Opposite to the behaviour in azide solutions, the halide ions do not show the active‐passive transition.
The wet corrosion of molybdenum thin film –. Part I: Behavior at 25°C
Authors: De Rosa L. , Tomachuk C. R. , Springer J. , Mitton D. B. , Saiello S. , Bellucci F.
Published: August 2004

The corrosion and passivation behaviour of molybdenum thin films obtained by Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) was investigated in aerated chloride and sulfate solutions at different pH values. Open circuit potential (ocp) measurements, polarisation experiments and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were employed. The experimental results suggest that the metal surface is covered by a passive film; however, corrosion still occurs. For the samples assessed during the current research, the acidic electrolytes tended to be less corrosive; however, a limited passive region was associated with the most basic sulfate or chloride solution. The effect of the pH was found to be more pronounced than the effect of the ion (chloride or sulfate).
Polylactones, 68
Authors: Kricheldorf Hans R. , Ahrensdorf Kirsten , Rost Simon
Published: August 2004

Full Paper: Using Sn(II)2‐ethylhexanoate (SnOct2) in combination with 1,4‐butanediol, 1,1,1‐tris(hydroxymethyl)propane (THMP) or pentaerythritol as initiator systems telechelic polyesters or star‐shaped homopolyesters of ε‐caprolactone (ε‐CL) or L,L‐lactide (L‐LA) were prepared. These homopolymers were characterized by solution viscosities, 1H NMR and MALDI‐TOF mass spectra. Using preformed homopolymers as coinitiators star‐shaped polymers having two‐block star arms were obtained. Polymerizations of equimolar mixtures of two monomers yielded star‐shaped polymers with random copolyesters as star arms. The blockiness or randomness of the star arms was characterized by 13C NMR spectroscopy. Homo‐ and copolymerizations of trimethylene carbonate (TMC) were also studied, but they were plagued by intensive side reactions such as formation of cyclic oligomers, coinitiation with water and crosslinking via transesterification.

Star‐shaped polymers having two‐block star arms obtained in this study.

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Star‐shaped polymers having two‐block star arms obtained in this study.
Photoactive Azobenzene Polymers Containing Carbazole Chromophores
Authors: Altomare Angelina , Ciardelli Francesco , Mellini Linda , Solaro Roberto
Published: August 2004

Summary: Polymeric systems containing side‐chain photoactive chromophores were prepared by free‐radical copolymerization of N‐vinylcarbazole with 4‐methacryloyloxyazobenzene and 4‐methacryloyloxy‐4′‐cyanoazobenzene. The resulting materials were characterized by size exclusion chromatography, TGA and DSC thermal analysis, FT‐IR, 1H NMR, UV‐vis, and fluorescence spectroscopy and photoisomerization experiments. In all cases, the copolymer composition was almost independent of the feed composition, in agreement with the strong tendency of the investigated monomers to alternating copolymerization. Spectroscopic and thermal data clearly highlighted the occurrence of charge‐transfer electronic interactions between electron‐rich carbazole rings and electron‐poor azobenzene chromophores. These interactions facilitate the trans‐cis photoisomerization of azobenzene side‐chains.

Aromatic proton NMR spectra of different poly(MCA‐co‐NVK) samples.

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Aromatic proton NMR spectra of different poly(MCA‐co‐NVK) samples.
Phenolic Thermoset Matrix Reinforced with Sugar Cane Bagasse Fibers: Attempt to Develop a New Fiber Surface Chemical Modification Involving Formation of Quinones Followed by Reaction with Furfuryl Alcohol
Authors: Trindade Wanderson G. , Hoareau William , Razera Ilce A. T. , Ruggiero Reinaldo , Frollini Elisabete , Castellan Alain
Published: August 2004

Summary: A new chemical modification of sugar cane bagasse fibers for phenolic thermoset composites is presented. It consists in creating quinones in the lignin portions of fiber and react them with furfuryl alcohol to create a coating around the fiber more compatible with the phenolic resins used to prepare polymeric matrix. Sodium periodate was used in suitable conditions to oxidize mainly phenolic syringyl and guaiacyl units of the lignin polymer to create quinones, which were characterized by UV‐visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy by comparison with model compounds. The reactivity of furfuryl alcohol (FA) with fibers was greatly enhanced after they were oxidized: 13% weight percent gain compared to 2% without oxidation. Chemical analysis of unmodified and FA‐modified fibers have shown an important degradation of hemicelluloses and a slight one of cellulose which almost maintains its crystallinity. A 25% decrease of strength and length properties of the fibers after FA chemical treatment was measured by dynamic mechanical analysis. The lignin‐like proportion of the fiber was greatly enhanced after the FA‐treatment. This was confirmed by thermal analysis, DSC, and TGA experiments, on unmodified and FA‐modified fibers. SEM analysis of the fibers and of phenolic composites with modified fibers have confirmed the FA grafting and shown a better compatibility at the interface between the chemically modified fibers and the phenolic matrix. Nevertheless, the chemical treatment of the fibers decreased the impact strength of the composite, which could be caused by the fiber damage suffered during the chemical modification and for the more intense adhesion at the interface, which in some cases decrease somewhat the impact strength.

Cross photomicrography of FA‐modified sugar cane bagasse fiber (600×).

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Cross photomicrography of FA‐modified sugar cane bagasse fiber (600×).
Toughening of Polystyrene with Ethylene‐Propylene‐Diene Terpolymer (EPDM) Compatibilized by Styrene‐Butadiene‐Styrene Block Copolymer (SBS)
Authors: Fang Zhengping , Guo Zhenghong , Zha Linlin
Published: August 2004

Summary: Polystyrene (PS) was toughened with ethylene‐propylene‐diene terpolymer (EPDM) in the presence of styrene‐butadiene‐styrene block copolymer (SBS). Incorporation of SBS into the PS/EPDM blends clearly improved the impact properties. For PS/EPDM/SBS (mass ratio: 69/21/10) blends, the notched Charpy impact strength reached a maximum value of 26.3 kJ/m2. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that SBS was distributed on the interface between PS and EPDM. Butanone extraction and FTIR analysis found that there was a grafting reaction between PS and EPDM phase during melt compounding. Shearing and processing rheological behaviors of blends were evaluated with a Haake capillary rheometer and a torque rheometer, respectively.

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Poly(acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene)/Poly(ether ether ketone) Blends: an Attempt Towards a Polymer Reinforced Polymer Composite
Authors: Nandan Bhanu , Kandpal Laxmi D. , Mathur Gyanesh N.
Published: August 2004

Summary: Blends of poly(acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene) (ABS) and poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK), in which PEEK has been used as a reinforcing medium for the ABS matrix in ratios up to 20 wt.‐% of the blend, were prepared by melt mixing using a laboratory mixer. All the blend compositions were processed at the ABS processing temperature so that the PEEK was dispersed in the ABS matrix without actually melting. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) studies revealed that the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the ABS phase in the blend did not show any appreciable change with composition. The dynamic storage modulus measured by DMA was found to be higher for the blend as compared to pure ABS due to reinforcement of the matrix by PEEK. The tensile strength and modulus behavior of these blends were found to follow the curves predicted using models proposed for composite systems having perfect adhesion, which shows the presence of some physical interaction between the blend components. The good tensile properties of the blend have been correlated with the observed morphology. The disperse phase in the blend has been found to be present in extremely small (sub‐micron) dimensions, which not only provides more surface area for possible interactions between the blend components but also result in efficient stress transfer between the matrix and the dispersed phase during the tensile tests. The thermal stability of the blends was investigated using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). TGA further revealed that the constituents degraded at their respective decomposition temperatures.

SEM micrograph of tensile fractured surface of an ABS/PEEK 90/10 blend.

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SEM micrograph of tensile fractured surface of an ABS/PEEK 90/10 blend.
Hypoelliptic systems connected with Newton's polyhedron
Authors: Bouzar Chikh , Volevich Leonid
Published: August 2004

We introduce a general class of hypoelliptic systems of partial differential operators with variable coefficients generalizing the so‐called multi‐quasi‐elliptic differential operators. We study the regularity of solutions of these systems. More complete results are obtained in the case of two independent variables. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Atomic decomposition for the vorticity of a viscous flow in the whole space
Authors: Brandolese Lorenzo
Published: August 2004

We show that the vorticity of a viscous flow in ℝ3 admits an atomic decomposition of the form ω(x, t) = $ \textstyle \sum ^\infty _{k = 1} $ ωk(x – xk, t), with localized and oscillating building blocks ωk, if such a property is satisfied at the beginning of the evolution. We also study the long time behavior of an isolated coherent structure and the special behavior of flows with highly oscillating vorticities. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Local growth envelopes of spaces of generalized smoothness: the subcriticalcase
Authors: Caetano António M. , Moura Susana D.
Published: August 2004

The concept of local growth envelope (ℰLGA, u) of the quasi‐normed function space A is applied to the spaces of generalized smoothness B(s,ψ) pq (ℝn) and F(s,ψ)pq (ℝn) and it is shown that the influence of the function ψ, which is a fine tuning of the main smoothness parameter s, is strong enough in order to show up in the corresponding growth envelopes. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Leprosy and the peripheral nervous system: Basic and clinical aspects
Authors: Ooi Winnie W. , Srinivasan Jayashri
Published: August 2004

Leprosy is one of the most common causes of nontraumatic peripheral neuropathy in the developing world. The causative agent,Mycobacterium leprae, has a predilection for Schwann cells, where the organism multiplies unimpeded by organism‐specific host immunity, resulting in destruction of myelin, secondary inflammatory changes, and destruction of the nerve architecture. The cardinal diagnostic features of leprosy are anesthetic skin lesions, neuropathy, and positive skin smears for the bacilli. However, patients may rarely present without skin lesions in pure neuritic leprosy. Electrodiagnostic findings early in the disease reveal demyelinating features, such as slowing of conduction velocity and prolongation of latencies, but as the disease progresses secondary axonal damage commonly ensues. Electrodiagnostic studies are also useful to monitor for toxicity secondary to therapy, particularly thalidomide‐associated neuropathy. Nerve biopsy of a sensory cutaneous nerve is sometimes essential to confirm a diagnosis of leprosy. Significant advances in understanding of the pathogenesis, mapping of the genome, and other advances in molecular biology may result in better preventive and therapeutic modalities, and the goal of eradicating leprosy as a global problem may yet be realized. Muscle Nerve 30: 393–409, 2004
ParCYCLIC: finite element modelling of earthquake liquefaction response on parallel computers
Authors: Peng Jun , Lu Jinchi , Law Kincho H. , Elgamal Ahmed
Published: August 2004

This paper presents the computational procedures and solution strategy employed in ParCYCLIC, a parallel non‐linear finite element program developed based on an existing serial code CYCLIC for the analysis of cyclic seismically‐induced liquefaction problems. In ParCYCLIC, finite elements are employed within an incremental plasticity, coupled solid–fluid formulation. A constitutive model developed for simulating liquefaction‐induced deformations is a main component of this analysis framework. The elements of the computational strategy, designed for distributed‐memory message‐passing parallel computer systems, include: (a) an automatic domain decomposer to partition the finite element mesh; (b) nodal ordering strategies to minimize storage space for the matrix coefficients; (c) an efficient scheme for the allocation of sparse matrix coefficients among the processors; and (d) a parallel sparse direct solver. Application of ParCYCLIC to simulate 3‐D geotechnical experimental models is demonstrated. The computational results show excellent parallel performance and scalability of ParCYCLIC on parallel computers with a large number of processors. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stresses due to vertical subsurface loading for an inhomogeneous cross‐anisotropic half‐space
Authors: Wang Cheng‐Der , Pan Ernian
Published: August 2004

In this article, we present the solutions for the stresses induced by four different loads associated with an axially loaded pile in a continuously inhomogeneous cross‐anisotropic half‐space. The planes of cross‐anisotropy are parallel to the horizontal surface of the half‐space, and the Young's and shear moduli are assumed to vary exponentially with depth. The four loading types are: an embedded point load for an end‐bearing pile, uniform skin friction, linear variation of skin friction, and non‐linear parabolic variation of skin friction for a friction pile. The solutions for the stresses due to the pile load are expressed in terms of the Hankel integral and are obtained from the point load solutions of the same inhomogeneous cross‐anisotropic half‐space which were derived recently by the authors (Int. J. Rock Mech. Min. Sci. 2003; 40(5):667–685). A numerical procedure is proposed to carry out the integral. For the special case of homogeneous isotropic and cross‐anisotropic half‐space, the stresses predicted by the numerical procedure agree well with the solutions of Geddes and Wang (Geotechnique 1966; 16(3):231–255; Soils Found. 2003; 43(5):41–52). An illustrative example is also given to investigate the effect of soil inhomogeneity, the type and degree of soil anisotropy, and the four different loading types on the vertical normal stress. The presented solutions are more realistic in simulating the actual stratum of loading problem in many areas of engineering practice. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tensile properties and creep response of polypropylene fibre composites with variation of fibre diameter
Authors: Houshyar S , Shanks RA
Published: August 2004

The mechanical properties and morphology of polypropylene (PP) long‐fibre reinforced random poly(propylene‐co‐ethylene) (PPE) composites (50/50 % vol/vol) have been investigated with reference to the fibre diameter with constant length. There is an improvement in the mechanical properties of PPE matrix by incorporation of long PP fibres into the matrix. The elastic modulus of the composite increased with decrease in the fibre diameter to 50 µm, to 0.91 GPa, which was 5 times higher than for pure PPE. However, composite stiffness decreased with decreasing fibre diameter of less than 50 µm and this is discussed in term of the fibre stiffness, packing, stress concentration and aspect ratio. Creep resistance of the composites showed the same behaviour. Morphology of the composites was investigated using scanning electron microscopy. This showed that there was a thin layer of matrix on the reinforcement, which was attributed to good impregnation and wetting of the fibres. Moreover, prediction of tensile modulus using the Cox model correlated well with experimental data. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Exciton–phonon interaction and Raman spectra of [(CH3)2NH2]5Cd2CuCl11 crystals
Authors: Kapustianik V. , Batiuk A. , Czapla Z. , Podsiadła D. , Czupiński O. , Eliyachevskyy Yu. , Rudyk V.
Published: August 2004

Temperature evolution of the exciton–phonon interaction (EPI) in ((CH3)2NH2)5Cd2CuCl11 solid solution was studied on the basis of absorption spectroscopy data. The obtained values of effective phonon energies were compared with the data of Raman spectroscopy. It is shown that the (T) and E′ parameters of Urbach's rule show the continuous anomalous change characteristic of the second‐order phase transition at T1 = 176 K. The anomalous behaviour of the EPI and other spectral parameters at T0 = 310–315 K was related to the complex co‐operative effect involving weakening of the hydrogen bonds and variation of the Jahn–Teller distortion of metal–halogen polyhedra with temperature. This process takes place only within the copper–chlorine sublattice and due to this would be hardly related to the usual phase transition. At the same time, the considered temperature change of the tetragonal distortion of the metal–halogen octahedra is followed by nonfulfillment of Urbach's rule in the temperature range T T0. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electronic and structural properties of strontium chalcogenides SrS, SrSe and SrTe
Authors: Rached D. , Rabah M. , Benkhettou N. , Soudini B. , Abid H.
Published: August 2004

We present the results of a first‐principles study of the electronic and structural properties of strontium chalcogenides, SrS, SrSe and SrTe. The computational method is based on the full‐potential linear muffin‐tin orbitals method (FP‐LMTO) augmented by a plane‐wave basis (PLW). The exchange and correlation energy is described in the local density approximation (LDA) using the Perdew–Wang parameterization including a generalized gradient approximation (GGA). The calculated results of the structural properties are given for the NaCl (B1) and CsCl (B2) structures. We have also carried out band‐structure calculations for the three considered compound, but only for the NaCl (B1) structure. A reasonable agreement is found from the comparison of our results with other theoretical calculations and experimental data. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Basal stacking faults and (10&1macr;2) twin energies by a semi‐empirical tight‐binding method for zinc and cadmium
Authors: Béré A. , Chen J. , Hairie A. , Nouet G. , Paumier E.
Published: August 2004

The study of extended defects requires atomic modelisation able to give theoretical values characterizing the defects to be compared to experimental observations. In the case of zinc and cadmium which are hexagonal metals with high c/a ratio, such a comparison is still controversial due to the difficulty of using known potentials. A previously developed semi‐empirical tight‐binding method is now applied to calculate the energy of extended defects in Zn and Cd. A good correlation is obtained for hypothetical polytypes and for basal stacking faults. For the (10&1macr;2) twin, two possible interfaces are found and discussed with respect to the experimental results. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Oxygen transmission rates of packages at ambient, chill and freezing temperatures measured by the AOIR method
Authors: Larsen Hanne
Published: August 2004

The ambient oxygen ingress rate (AOIR) method is an alternative or supplementary method to Ox‐Tran for measuring the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) of packages. The method has high capacity, requires relatively inexpensive equipment and measures OTR at different temperatures and humidity conditions. The aim of this study was, on the one hand, to study the effect of temperature on the OTR for packages produced from different polymer materials and laminates, and on the other hand to evaluate the suitability of the AOIR method at freezing temperature conditions. The OTR for 10 packages with different polymer compositions was measured at 23°C, 6°C and −25°C. The AOIR method was shown to be a reliable test method for measuring OTR of packages at all the applied test conditions, also at frozen storage temperature. The OTR for the packages decreased with lower temperatures, especially for the packages with the highest OTR values at 23°C. In order to avoid higher packaging expenses than necessary to obtain the required shelf‐life for different food products, the OTR for alternative packages should be measured at the temperature and humidity conditions of intended use. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of oxygen levels in convenience‐style muscle‐based sous vide products through optical means and impact on shelf‐life stability
Authors: O'Mahony Fiach C. , O'Riordan Tomás C. , Papkovskaia Natalia , Ogurtsov Vladimir I. , Kerry Joe P. , Papkovsky Dmitri B.
Published: August 2004

An optical oxygen analyser was used in two small‐scale industrial trials to non‐destructively assess the quality of packaged convenience foods and packaging process. Beef lasagne packed under 70% vacuum and cooked under standard sous vide conditions was monitored for residual oxygen, using disposable sensors incorporated in each pack and a benchtop optical oxygen analyser. High levels of residual oxygen close to ambient were determined in the majority of packs after packaging, as opposed to anticipated levels of 4–5%. Residual oxygen was monitored over product shelf‐life (4 weeks at +4–10°C) along with measurement of microbial growth and lipid oxidation in food by conventional destructive methods. Oxygen levels in packs went down to almost zero between weeks 2 and 3 indicating deterioration of packaged product. Correlation between oxygen profiles and the rate of microbial growth and lipid oxidation was established. The optical oxygen sensor system was shown to provide valuable information about performance of the packaging process, product storage conditions and food quality in a convenient and cost‐efficient fashion and non‐destructively. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Heat penetration characteristics and shelf‐life studies of mushrooms in brine processed in retort pouches
Authors: Chandrasekar V. , Gopal T. K. Srinivasa , Rai R. D.
Published: August 2004

White button mushrooms were washed, blanched and cut longitudinally into two halves. 100 g mushroom halves was placed into each retort pouch and 90 ml hot brine (2% salt, 0.1% citric acid) was added. Retort pouches (105 µm thick) had an outer polyester layer (12.5 µm), a middle aluminium layer (12.5 µm) and an inner cast polypropylene layer (80 µm); pouch size was 20 × 16 cm, seal size 10 mm and lip size 4 mm. Pouches were fixed with thermocouples for recording the core temperature of the mushroom pieces, using a data recorder and a computer. After sealing and over‐pressure retorting at F0 = 9.6, the pouches were stored at the ambient conditions. The heat penetration parameters were calculated. The heating curve obtained was logarithmic in nature. Sensory evaluation of mushroom curry prepared from the stored mushrooms showed that the product had high acceptability (7.9 on a scale of 10) which reduced very slightly (to 7.5) during storage for 12 months. No deformity, leakage or spoilage was noticed and the product remained sterile and acceptable even after 12 months of storage at the ambient conditions (20–30°C). Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A design database for moulded pulp packaging structure
Authors: Ma X. , Soh A.K. , Wang B.
Published: August 2004

In this study, a structural factor approach is developed to allow a modular design method be used for the packaging design of thin‐walled structures. Numerical simulations of the structural units are carried out to evaluate the influence of the structural factors under static loading, by using the commercial finite element code ABAQUS/Explicit. Empirical relations between the load‐bearing capacity of structural units and structural factors are established based on numerical simulations. A database is then constructed that has the ability to provide valuable information for the loading performances of different structural units. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamic, open inquiry in biology learning
Authors: Zion M. , Slezak M. , Shapira D. , Link E. , Bashan N. , Brumer M. , Orian T. , Nussinowitz R. , Court D. , Agrest B. , Mendelovici R. , Valanides N.
Published: August 2004

In the new biology‐learning curriculum for Israeli high schools, known as Biomind, students experience “open‐inquiry.'' This paper describes a qualitative action research project that was performed in order to investigate the characteristics of the open inquiry learning process. Specifically, the research investigates this process in terms of the concepts of evidence, affective aspects, and other aspects that may emerge by following the open inquiry process. This paper also discusses how the findings from the open inquiry process can be used for further curriculum improvement.

This research characterized the open inquiry as a dynamic inquiry learning process. The main criteria for characterizing the dynamic inquiry are learning as a process, changes occurring during the research, procedural understanding, and affective points of view. The paper further suggests methods of documenting the dynamic inquiry process. This documentation can assist in understanding the inquiry process from both the cognitive and metacognitive points of view. The educational and research processes described here contributed both to improving the curriculum and to establishing an infrastructure through which the science education community can emphasize dynamic aspects of science in open inquiry learning. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed. 88:728–753, 2004
A framework for capturing the relationship between usability and software architecture
Authors: Folmer Eelke , van Gurp Jilles , Bosch Jan
Published: August 2004

Usability is increasingly recognized as an essential factor that determines the success of software systems. Practice shows that for current software systems, most usability issues are detected during testing and deployment. Fixing usability issues during this late stage of the development proves to be very costly. Some usability‐improving modifications such as usability patterns may have architectural implications. We believe that the software architecture may restrict usability. The high costs associated with fixing usability issues during late‐stage development prevent developers from making the necessary adjustments for meeting all the usability requirements. To improve upon this situation, we have investigated the relationship between usability and software architecture to gain a better understanding of how the architecture restricts the level of usability. Our article makes a number of contributions; a framework is presented that expresses the relationship between usability and software architecture. The framework consists of an integrated set of design solutions such as usability patterns and usability properties that have been identified in various cases in industry, modern day software and literature surveys. These solutions, in most cases, have a positive effect on usability but are difficult to retrofit into applications because they have architectural impact. Our framework may be used to guide and inform the architectural design phase. This may decrease development costs by reducing the amount of usability issues that need to be fixed during the later stages of development. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Separation in theory, coordination in practice – teaching HCI and SE
Authors: Clemmensen Torkil , Nørbjerg Jacob
Published: August 2004

The lack of shared perspective, techniques and notations between the disciplines of Software Engineering and Human–Computer Interaction creates challenges for practice as well as teaching in information systems development. In this article, we argue that the ‘gaps’ between the two disciplines are caused not only by different language and concepts but also by differences in the disciplines' basic assumptions, goals and theories. Reconciling these differences through common notations, techniques or life cycles will therefore require considerable effort and provide only dubious benefits. Instead we propose, using our own teaching as an example, that a reasonable way forward is to teach the two disciplines as separate subjects while at the same time emphasizing their mutual dependencies and meeting points in practical systems development—in theory as well as in practice. Results from applying this approach during a second‐year undergraduate program are presented, and ideas for further separation and coordination of HCI/SE in university‐level courses are discussed. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Massive multicystic dilatation of the uterine wall with myometrial venous thrombosis during pregnancy
Authors: Uotila J. , Dastidar P. , Martikainen P. , Kirkinen P.
Published: August 2004

We present a pregnancy complicated by multicystic dilatation of the uterine wall during the second trimester, leading to massive uterine distension, anemia and preterm Cesarean section. The cystic changes detected by ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging involved the whole uterine wall surrounding the entire amniotic cavity. Histopathological examination revealed the benign nature of the cystic changes, which represented dilated and thrombosed venous lacunae. Disturbed venous drainage, combined with local thrombosis, was likely to have led to the collection of a large volume of blood in the uterine wall and the subsequent multicystic change of the myometrium. Copyright © 2004 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Riemann problem for a class of resonant hyperbolic systems of balance laws
Authors: Goatin Paola , LeFloch Philippe G.
Published: August 2004

We solve the Riemann problem for a class of resonant hyperbolic systems of balance laws. The systems are not strictly hyperbolic and the solutions take their values in a neighborhood of a state where two characteristic speeds coincide. Our construction generalizes the ones given earlier by Isaacson and Temple for scalar equations and for conservative systems. The class of systems under consideration here includes, in particular, a model from continuum physics that describes the evolution of a fluid flow in a nozzle with discontinuous cross-section.

Nous résolvons le problème de Riemann pour une classe de systèmes hyperboliques non-conservatifs et résonants. Ces systèmes ne sont pas strictement hyperboliques et les solutions considérées prennent leurs valeurs au voisinage d'un état constant où deux des vitesses caractéristiques coincident. Notre construction généralise celle donnée précédemment par Isaacson et Temple pour les équations scalaires et les systèmes conservatifs. La classe générale de systèmes étudiée ici comprend, en particulier, un modèle important de la dynamique des milieux continus qui décrit l'évolution d'un fluide dans une tuyère dont la section est discontinue.