bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Processing and characterization of a biaxially oriented conducting polymer
Authors: Machado J. M. , Masse M. A. , Karasz F. E. , Burnett J. M. , Kovar R. F. , Druy M. A.
Published: April 2007

Two methods have been developed for the preparation of biaxially oriented poly(phenylene vinylene) from its poly(sulfonium salt) precursor. A two‐stage stretching process permits non‐equibiaxial stretching over a wide range of deformation ratios and a bubble expansion technique allows equibiaxial planar extension. The resulting films were examined using X‐ray diffraction prior to chemical doping with SbF5 vapor. Biaxial orientation was shown to exert considerable influence over the attainable electrical conductivity.
Electroinitiated polymerization of bis(tribromophenoxo)‐N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethylethylenediamine copper(II) complex
Authors: Akbulut Ural , Sacak Mehmet , Kisakürek Duygu , Toppare Levent
Published: April 2007

Tribromophenol copper(II) complexes with ligands such as pyridine and ethylenediamine are known to polymerize thermally. Generally, high temperature is required for thermal polymerization of such complexes. Thermal polymerization of trihalophenol copper(II) complexes in toluene has an induction period of c. 30 min. Electroinitiated polymerization of trihalophenol copper(II) complexes has also been accomplished recently using pyridine or ethylenediamine as ligands. However, the above mentioned copper(II) complexes cannot be polymerized electro‐chemically in acetonitrile. When pyridine and ethylenediamine are used as ligands, such complexes rapidly polymerize in acetonitrile without the passage of any current even at room temperature. Therefore, the electrochemical polymerization of trihalophenol copper(II) complexes with pyridine and ethylenediamine ligands must be carried out in dimethylformamide.

In the present work, electroinitiated polymerization of bis(2,4,6‐tribromo‐phenoxo)‐N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethylethylenediamine copper(II) complex (TBPTD) was accomplished for the first time in acetonitrile. When N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethylethylene diamine is used as the ligand in the preparation of tribromophenol copper(II) complex it is found that acetonitrile can be used as solvent. This complex does not polymerize in acetonitrile without the application of potential.

Electroinitiated polymerization of TBPTD was carried out by constant potential electrolysis, at each anodic peak potential of the complex. These potentials of TBPTD were measured, in advance, by cyclic voltammetry in acetonitrile.

Electrolysis of TBPTD yielded polymers in the anode compartment only. Electroinitated polymerization of this monomer exhibited no induction period in contrast to the case of thermal polymerization.

The reacted monomer concentration was simultaneously followed by cyclic voltammetry, in the same electrolysis cell. This process was accomplished by a specially designed H‐type cell equipped with six electrodes. Use of cyclic voltammetry for simultaneous in‐situ monitoring of reacted monomer concentrations was found to be more accurate, quicker and more reproducible than gas chromatography or spectroscopy.

Polymers were characterized by FTIR, 1HNMR, and 13CNMR spectral analyses as well as measurement of molecular weight by the isopiestic method.
Studies on grafting of methacrylic acid on to poly(vinyl chloride) films
Authors: Singh Jagbir , Ray Alok R. , Singh Harpal
Published: April 2007

The characterization of poly(vinyl chloride‐g‐methacrylic acid) (PVC‐g‐MAA) films, prepared by the simultaneous‐irradiation technique, was undertaken through swelling measurements, attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy (ATRIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The per cent swelling of grafted PVC in various media increased with the increase in the graft level. A higher per cent swelling was observed in 0‐5m NaOH aqueous solution relative to that in distilled water. It is concluded from the ATRIR and ESCA studies that the concentration ratio of oxygen to chlorine atoms on the surface of grafted PVC increased compared with unmodified PVC, indicating grafting of methacrylic acid on to the surface. It was also found that the thermal properties of PVC improved after grafting with methacrylic acid.
A study in the formation and characterisation of oxazolidone‐isocyanurate polymers using differential scanning calorimetry and infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Lee Yvonne S‐K , Hodd Ken , Wright William W. , Barton John M.
Published: April 2007

Epoxy resins of functionality 2–4 were reacted with 4,4′‐diisocyanato diphenyl methane within the range of isocyanate to epoxide ratios of 0.5–1‐5 in the presence of 2‐ethyl‐4‐methyl imidazole to form oxazolidone‐isocyanurate polymers. The state and extent of cure of the resins were followed by infrared spectroscopy in conjunction with differential scanning calorimetry. The ratios of isocyanurate to oxazolidone linkages in the cured resins were determined quantitatively by an infrared method and the glass transition temperatures of the corresponding structures were measured by differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis.
Thermal and spectroscopic studies on flame‐retardant cotton cellulose modified with THPC‐urea‐ADP and its transition metal complexes
Authors: Bagga Swaran L. , Jain Rajesh K. , Gur Ishwar S. , Bhatnagar Hari L.
Published: April 2007

Cotton cellulose has been treated with tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)phosphonium chloride (THPC), urea and small amounts of ammonium dihydrogen orthophosphate (ADP) to impart flame retardancy. Complexes of cell‐THPC‐urea‐ADP with transition metals such as chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper and zinc have been characterized by reflectance UV‐visible spectra. The samples were subjected to differential thermal analysis and thermogravimetry from ambient temperature to 700°C in air to study their thermal behaviour. From the resulting data, various kinetic parameters for different stages of thermal degradation were obtained following the method of Broido. For the decomposition of cellulose and flame‐retardant celluloses, the activation energy was found to increase from 242 to 322kJ mol−1, the entropy of activation from 140 to 307 JK−1 mol−1 and the char yield from 2.5 to 31%. The free energy of activation for decomposition of cellulose and its derivatives was almost the same, viz. 148–162 kJ mol−1, indicating that the basic steps in the decomposition of cellulose and its derivatives are the same. The IR spectra of the thermally degraded residues of cell‐THPC‐urea‐ADP and its metal complexes indicate that dehydration takes place and a compound containing the carbonyl group is formed. The electron paramagnetic resonance signals indicate the formation of trapped and stable free radicals in the thermal degradation of cellulose and its derivatives.
Synthesis of block copolymers based on oxyethylene chains and their use as polymer electrolytes
Authors: Wilson David J. , Nicholas Christian V. , Mobbs Richard H. , Booth Colin , Giles Jeremy R. M.
Published: April 2007

High‐molecular‐weight copolymers were prepared consisting predominantly of oxyethylene and oxymethylene‐oligo(oxyethylene) blocks with a small 1‐phenylethylene block. Ionic conductivities of mixtures of the copolymers with CF3SO3Li were measured.
Preferential plasticization of SBS triblock copolymer
Authors: Canevarolo Sebastiao V. , Mattoso Luiz H. C.
Published: April 2007

Thermoplastic rubbers made of triblock copolymers of styrene‐butadiene‐styrene in commercial formulations are commonly used in conjunction with petroleum extender oils, in order to reduce the melt viscosity of the rubber during its processing. These mineral oils contain known quantities of paraffinic‐naphthenic and aromatic molecules, which in turn are preferably absorbed by the rubbery and glassy phases respectively, affecting selectively the copolymer domain structure and thus the rheological and mechanical properties. Using a plasticizer, the melt viscosity of the system is reduced due to the plasticization of the phases, as expected. The melt rheological transition temperature shown by the unplasticized block copolymer is still present in the oil extended formulations. The flow activation energy is affected by the temperature, type and content of plasticizer. For temperatures lower than the rheological transition temperature the aromatic oil gradually weakens and destroys the polystyrene aggregates and the paraffinic oil induces a greater segregation of the polystyrene aggregates. At temperatures above the rheological transition temperature the behaviour of the two is similar because the flow is homogeneous.
Glass fibre reinforced composites of triglycidyl‐p‐aminophenol
Authors: Thakkar Jatin R. , Patel Ravji D. , Patel Ranjan G. , Patel Vithal S.
Published: April 2007

Glass fibre reinforced epoxy composites were fabricated from the matrix resins diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) and triglycidyl‐p‐aminophenol (TGAP) using diethylene triamine as curing agent. The epoxy laminates were evaluated for their mechanical properties, dielectrical properties and chemical resistance. Significant improvement in fiexural strength but a slight deterioration in dielectrical properties were observed on incorporation of an epoxy fortifier into the resin system before fabricating the composites.
Mechanical properties of natural rubber/grafted cellulose fibre composites
Authors: Flink Per , Stenberg Bengt
Published: April 2007

Mechanical properties of natural rubber/allyl acrylate and allyl methacrylate grafted cellulose fibre composites are presented. Stress/strain measurements and dynamic mechanical measurements indicate that the adhesion between grafted fibres and matrix is better than that in samples containing untreated cellulose fibres. This makes it possible to vary the composite properties by varying the fibre type and/or fibre amount.
Measurement of transport properties of poly(methylmethacrylate‐co‐methacrylic acid) ion‐containing membranes
Authors: Şanli Oya , Aras Leyla
Published: April 2007

Several membranes prepared from poly(methylmethacrylate‐co‐methacrylic acid) and its Li+ and Zn2+ ionomers were tested for NaCl, creatinine and urea permeability. The permeabilities of the membranes were explained on the basis of pore contents determined from their scanning electron microscope micrographs. All the membranes showed higher permeabilities during the first 2 hours of experimentation. Introduction of Zn2+ ions into the copolymer as crosslinking agent did not have much effect on the membrane properties but the properties of the copolymer were modified.
Studies on the hydrogenation of olefins using polymer‐bound palladium (II) species
Authors: Mani Ramanathan , Mahadevan Venkatraman , Srinivasan Mahalingam
Published: April 2007

bis‐Benzonitriledichloropalladium(II) [(PhCN)2PdCl2] has been supported on two copolymers containing carboxyl and pyridyl groups and has been employed as a catalyst for the hydrogenation of olefins under mild conditions. The coordination environment and the nature of the metal species on the polymer have been studied by IR, ESCA, X‐ray and a chemical test based on KCN treatment.

Based on experimental evidence it is proposed that the polymer‐palladium complexes initially contain palladium atoms with chlorine atom bridges which are cleaved in the activation. The catalysts were found to be active towards the hydrogenation of olefins under ambient conditions (room temperature and 1 atmosphere total pressure). The kinetic and mechanistic aspects of the hydrogenation of styrene and acrylonitrile and recycling capacity data using one catalyst (Cat‐I) are reported.
Polymers for use in drug delivery—property and structure requirements
Authors: Petrak K.
Published: April 2007

The purpose of this paper is to discuss some of the requirements placed on materials needed for improved administration of drugs. Emphasis is placed on macromolecules that need to be designed and prepared to perform specific pharmacological functions, particularly to act as vehicles for delivering drugs to specific locations within the body.

After introducing the reasons for more selective drug delivery, and explaining the rationale for using macromolecules, practical examples of results with linking drugs to polymers, modifying polymers to increase their biological compatibility, attachment to polymers of groups that could mediate their specific recognition, modification of proteins with polymers, and the use of polymer complexes will be given to indicate the areas of need for further development of pharmaceutically useful macromolecules.
Some properties of β‐D‐Glucosidase from Trichoderma harzianum C1R1
Authors: Todorović R. , Grujić S. , Petrović J.
Published: April 2007

β‐D‐Glucosidase from Trichoderma harzianum C1R1 consists of several isocomponents having isoelectric points in the pH range of 4.85‐7.50. All the components exhibit both cellobiase and 4‐nitrophenyl β‐D‐glucosidase (4NPGase) activity. The enzyme affinity for cellobiose (Km = 3.92 mmol dm−3) is 14.5 times weaker than for 4NPG (Km = 0.27 mmol dm−3). The hydrolysis of both substrates is competitively inhibited by glucose, the inhibition of 4NPG hydrolysis (K1 = 2.00 mmol dm−3) being about 4.2 times stronger compared to the hydrolysis of cellobiose (K1 = 8.43 mmol dm−3). The 4NPG hydrolysis is also competitively inhibited by the presence of cellobiose and D‐glucono‐1,5‐lactone (Ki(cellobiose) = 5.00 mmol dm−3; Ki(D‐glucono‐1,5‐lactone) = 22 μmol dm−3). The optimal hydrolysis conditions are the same for both substrates (pH 4.5,55° C). The half‐lives of thermal inactivation at 61° C are 27 and 10min for cellobiase and 4NPGase, respectively.
Solution properties of poly(thiocarbonates) containing cyclic side chains
Authors: Gargallo Ligia , Tagle Luis H. , Radic Deodato
Published: April 2007

Poly(thiocarbonates) with cyclic side chains have been studied in the theta solvent 1,4‐dioxane. The Mark‐Houwink‐Sakurada (MHS) relationships were established and the unperturbed dimensions determined. The conformational parameters were compared with those of other poly(thiocarbonates) and related polymers. It was found that the polymers containing cyclic groups present a more extended and rigid chain. A marked influence of the nature and structure of the side chain on the conformational parameters was found.
Solution behavior of Na sulfonated polystyrene: Dipole moment determinations
Authors: Güler Hatice , Aras Leyla , Vanderschueren J.
Published: April 2007

Solution behavior of Na sulfonated polystyrene (NaSPS) ionomers with different percentages of sulfonate was studied by viscosity and dipole moment measurements. Two solvents of different character were chosen, i.e. dioxane (ϵ = 2.22) and dimethyl formamide (DMF, ϵ = 36) and their mixtures. The reduced viscosity as a function of concentration in polar solvents reflects the ‘polyelectrolyte’ behaviour of the ionomers.

Mean‐squared dipole moment (<μ2>/x) values were calculated over a temperature range of 20–100°C, in dioxane and in a mixture of 4% DMF in dioxane. The results confirm the ‘polyelectrolyte’ behavior of ionomers by the addition of a small amount of polar cosolvent. The effect of increasing temperature on <μ2>/x in the DMF‐dioxane mixture is attributed to the formation of a coordination complex.
Amine functionalization of poly(styryl)lithium with N‐(benzylidene)trimethylsilylamine
Authors: Quirk Roderic P. , Summers Gabriel J.
Published: April 2007

Functionalization reactions of poly(styryl)lithium with N‐(benzylidene)‐trimethylsilylamine produce polymers containing significant amounts of coupling products for Mn = 2.8 × 103g/mol (19% coupling) and Mn = 15 × 103g/mol (15% coupling). Isolation and characterization of the products for the amination of poly(styryl)lithium with Mn = 2.8 × 13g/mol indicates that the non‐coupled products consist of a primary amine‐terminated polymer (69% yield) and an acetophenone‐type functionalized polymer (12% yield). The dimeric product (19% yield) has a primary amine functional group. The formation of these products is rationalized by a Cannizzaro‐type reaction of the initially formed polymeric lithium silylamide product with excess N‐(benzylidene)(trimethylsilylamine to form the corresponding polymer with imine chain‐end functionality which can react with another molecule of poly(styryl)lithium to form dimer product or hydrolyze to the acetophenone functionality on work‐up.
Preferential adsorption in polymer/solvent‐1 /solvent‐2 solutions by infrared spectroscopy
Authors: González Carmen , Zamora Fernando , Gutierrez Eva , Ramirez Juan C. , León Luis M.
Published: April 2007

IR spectroscopy is shown to be a suitable technique for preferential adsorption studies in the following solvent‐1/solvent‐2/polymer systems: poly(N‐vinylcarbazole) and polyacenaphthene in nitrobenzene/dioxane, nitrobenzene/ tetrahydrofuran, and nitrobenzene/cyclohexanone. Values of the preferential adsorption parameters derived from the Schultz‐Flory theory agree with those from IR when both solvents in the ternary system are considered to be good solvents for the polymer. In the systems studied, the relative adsorptions of solvent‐1 and solvent‐2 by the polymer depend on the solvent mixture composition. The number of adsorbed molecules and their performance are correlated with the ternary interaction parameters, Xm3, and the Mark‐Houwink‐Sakurada exponent, a′. The adsorption changes observed are greater in those systems in which tetrahydrofuran was present.
A Review of Polymer Interfaces in Tyre Technology
Authors: Lechtenboehmer A. , Moneypenny H. G. , Mersch F.
Published: April 2007

The study of polymer interfaces is of prime importance in the field of tyre technology due to the critical role these contribute to tyre operation. The paper reviews the main polymer interfaces present in a tyre—(1) tyre/road (tyre wear or abrasion; tyre traction/skid resistance); (2) polymer/filler (carbon black; silica); (3) polymer/cord (brass coated steel wire; textile—rayon, nylon, polyester, aramid); (4) compound/compound (tack); (5) tyre/air (oxygen/ozone protection)—with respect to the criteria required, physical and chemical, to achieve optimum performance.
The role of impurities in the mechanisms and kinetics of reactions of epoxy resins and their effects on final resin properties
Authors: Grenier‐Loustalot Marie‐Florence , Grenier Philippe
Published: April 2007

A series of commercial tetrafunctional epoxy prepolymers were step‐growth polymerised with aromatic amines. The roles of non‐epoxy chain ends and of impurities in the polymer were shown in terms of the mechanisms, reaction kinetics and final thermal properties of the material.

The pure prepolymer was studied after preparative chromatographic separation. In the temperature range 100–180°C, epoxy‐primary amine reactions predominate at the beginning, followed by epoxy‐hydroxyl and epoxy‐secondary amine reactions at the end of the reaction sequence.

These reactions may be either intermolecular forming cross‐linked networks, or intramolecular forming rings, the latter occurring primarily at the end of heat treatment.

At temperatures higher than 180°C, there are breakdown reactions and homopolymerisation of epoxy groups.

Based on data obtained with 13C solid phase cross polarization magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance, inverse phase gas chromatography and Calvet microcalorimetry, the progress of the reaction could be determined up to the gel point and in the vitrification zone.

Based on structural results (assays of residual functions and those formed in the cross‐linked networks), it was possible to establish relationships between structures and thermal properties.
Pyroelectric behaviour of solution‐grown cellulose acetate polymer films
Authors: Sharma A. K. , Ramu Ch.
Published: April 2007

The pyroelectric behaviour of cellulose acetate polymer films was studied in a vacuum of 10−3 torr under a polarizing field strength range of 6.25 × 105–50 × 105 V/m and a polarizing temperature range of 304–406 K.

The pyroelectric coefficient exhibited abnormal behaviour, starting initially on the negative side and then changing sign from negative to positive. Negative coefficients are believed to be due to dipolar orientation, whereas space charge polarization is responsible for positive pyroelectric coefficients.
Anionic functional initiators. 1: 3‐dimethylaminopropyllithium as an initiator for the synthesis of Bi‐ and difunctional polybutadienes
Authors: Stewart Malcolm J. , Shepherd Neil , Service David M.
Published: April 2007

Methods are described whereby a series of novel bi‐ and difunctional (telechelic) high 1,4‐microstructure polybutadienes are prepared by use of an anionic functional initiator. This initiator, 3‐dimethylaminopropyllithium, has been extensively investigated and methods for its preparation and use in non‐polar solvents are described. When utilised in such non‐polar solvents the polybutadienes produced are uniquely functionalised, possessing a high 1,4‐structure and a low glass transition temperature. Evidence is presented to demonstrate that these reactions are true ‘living’ polymerisations and that quantitative functional termination reactions may be used to yield a wide range of multi‐, bi‐ or difunctional polymers.
Preparation and properties of aromatic‐aliphatic cardopolyamides from phenoxathiins and thianthrenes
Authors: Reddy K. Audisesha , Srinivasan M.
Published: April 2007

Several new aromatic‐aliphatic cardopolyamides containing phenoxathiin and thianthrene derivatives were prepared by the direct polycondensation of 2,8‐phenoxathiin‐bis(γ‐ketobutyric acid) (PA) or 2,7‐thianthrene‐bis(γ‐ketobutyric acid) (TA) with 3,3‐bis(4‐aminophenyl phthalide) (PDA), 9,9‐bis(4‐aminophenyl fluorene (FDA), or 9,9‐bis(4‐aminophenyl) anthrone (ADA) in a triphenyl phosphite‐pyridine system. The cardopolyamides were obtained in 80–95% yield and possessed viscosities in the range 0.90‐1.35 dl/g. They showed better solubility and heat resistance than analogous noncardopolyamides derived from conventional diamines. All the polymers were characterised by IR spectra, density, solubility, crystallinity and thermal analysis. Integral procedural decomposition temperatures (IPDT) were calculated from the primary thermograms in the temperature range 100–650°C to give quantitative data regarding the thermal stabilities. The molecular weight and molecular weight distribution of the polyamides were determined by gel‐permeation chromatography (GPC).
Studies on the radical copolymerization of methylacrylate with styrene using ZnCl2 as an accelerator
Authors: Srivastava N. , Rai J. S. P.
Published: April 2007

The kinetic investigation of the radical copolymerization of methylacrylate (MA) with styrene (Sty) using zinc chloride (ZnCl2) as an accelerator was carried out at 60 ± 0.1 °C for 120 min. The rate of polymerization was proportional to the concentrations of ZnCl2 and monomers. The energies of activation in the presence and absence of the complex are 34 and 89 kJ mol−1, respectively.
Studies on certain new polymaleamidehydrazides
Authors: Nagarathinam Rangasamy , Rajeswari Natesan , Viswanathan Seshaiyer , Kothandaraman Harimurthi , Ponnusamy Ettigounder
Published: April 2007

Three polymaleamidehydrazides have been synthesised by the ring‐opening polyaddition of N,N′‐bisisomaleimide with aromatic diamines (having methyl or methoxy ring substituents or flexible SO2 groups between benzene rings) at room temperature. Thermogravimetry and mass spectrometry have been used in conjunction with infrared spectroscopy, inherent viscosity measurements, NMR and UV‐visible spectroscopy to characterise these polymers.
Synthesis and characterization of maleic anhydride oligomers
Authors: Severini Febo , Pegoraro Mario , Ricca Giuliana , Audisio Guido , Dainese Donatella , Gallo Raffaele
Published: April 2007

Maleic anhydride (MA) reacts in acetone solution with pyridine (Py) at room temperature with carbon dioxide evolution and formation of oligomers having average M̄n ranging from 400 to 700 daltons. The influence of pyridine concentration on the rate of decarboxylation has been studied. The product obtained with molar ratio MA/Py = 1.64 is very reproducible. This product has been characterized with different analytical techniques. The results obtained allowed us to propose a reaction scheme for the oligomerization.
Synthesis and characterization of carboxylated polysulfones
Authors: Guiver Michael D. , Croteau S. , Hazlett John D. , Kutowy O.
Published: April 2007

Polysulfone has been carboxylated, via a metalated intermediate, by reaction of a THF solution of polymer with n‐butyllithium and then treatment with carbon dioxide. The polymer reactions with n‐butyllithium were close to quantitative and did not require the use of a tertiary amine catalyst. A series of polymers ranging from 0.2 to 1.9 carboxyl groups per repeat unit was prepared by this method in the salt, acid and ester form. The structures of these polymer derivatives were characterized by 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR and IR. The glass transition temperatures and thermal stabilities were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetry (TG).
Industry drivers of global strategy and organization
Authors: Yip George S.
Published: April 2007

This article reports on a research study of how 18 worldwide businesses belonging to some of the largest American multinational companies responded in their strategies to industry globalization forces. The findings reveal some effective approaches, but at the same time show that most of these businesses lagged in their response. In particular, organizational, managerial and cultural barriers to implementation hampered efforts to change. This article develops a series of lessons on how multinational companies can improve their formulation and implementation of global strategy. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A revised framework of global strategy: Extending the coordination‐configuration framework
Authors: Moon H. Chang
Published: April 2007

Although there have been significant efforts in conceptualizing global strategies, few frameworks have been developed to measure the relative globalness of firms. Porter proposed a specific framework of coordination and configuration for this purpose. This article proposes a new framework of global strategy by extending Porter's original framework. The conceptual clarification of this article will be useful in understanding different types of firms that are pursuing a global strategy. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Transformation of marketing management in Russia: A qualitative and theory building approach
Authors: Shama Avraham
Published: April 2007

Casual observers of Russian management are quick to portray a simplistic, well packaged, and seemingly accurate picture of life of Russian managers. Russia, they say, is imploding and disintegrating. In 1992, the inflation rate was 3,000 percent, and in the first 6 months of 1993, the monthly inflation rate ranged from 25 to 30 percent. The gross national product declined 25 percent in 1992 and continued to decline in 1993. Management life in Russia, these observers say, is unbearable, hell. Russian managers have been order‐takers from central planners and regulators for more than 70 years. They have been accustomed to working in a stable and predictable environment, and therefore could not possibly be effective in the shock‐therapy‐induced market economy that began in January, 1992. However, these observers could not be further from the truth. I concluded from my study of Russian management decision making in 1989, 1991, and 1992 that in a rapidly changing and chaotic environment, Russian managers are quick to recognize the effects of the evolving market economy and take rapid corrective or exploitive action. The 3‐year effort is a qualitative study of Russian management transformation and the development of a theoretical framework. What I found was that contrary to my findings in 1989 and 1991, the Russian economic shock therapy, which began in 1992, has infused life into Russian managers. As a result, they have been quick to recognize the effects of such economic forces as inflation, uncertainty, competition, consumer selectivity, credit, cash flow, and raw material on their enterprises. Likewise, they were also quick to respond, for example, by restructuring, downsizing, developing more competitive strategies, increasing promotions and sales force, and seeking foreign investors. In these respects, Russian management behavior resembles Western management behavior. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Assessment centers: A contrast of usage in diverse environments
Authors: Cook Roy A. , Herche Joel
Published: April 2007

The assessment center technique for sales force selection, promotion, career development, and training has received substantial attention. In addition to being cited as having substantial potential for more traditional sales management applications, the approach has been identified as well‐suited for cross‐cultural and multinational sales environments. This study appraises assessment center applications in two divergent settings: the United States and Europe. Expectations of greater awareness and utilization among European marketing managers were confirmed. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Innovative management and organizational development in Latin America
Authors: Dávila Carlos , Samper Henry Gómez
Published: April 2007

Examples of unusually effective and successful management were uncovered in a study of selected business firms, public agencies, and nongovernmental and community organizations in six Latin American countries. Many employ novel management and organizational development strategies that: run counter to both conventional practice and textbook guidelines; produce significant contributions to social and economic development; and suit leadership and management styles to the local culture. Lessons emerging from the study suggest needed reforms in the content of management education imparted by the region's business schools. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Pursuing social justice in a capitalist society
Authors: de Santamaría María Consuelo
Published: April 2007

Fundación Social operates a total of 12 companies, mainly in Colombia's financial sector, and employs its profits to support social programs addressed to removing the structural causes that generate poverty in target communities. Together, these programs directly and indirectly reach an impressive number of beneficiaries. The companies are expected to compete effectively for their respective markets and some appear to be unusually successful. Ongoing efforts are made to articulate an organizational culture that is consistent with Fundación Social's mission as well as reconcile that mission with viable strategy and day‐to‐day action in the complex task of managing social development in a cleavage‐ridden society. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Trends in international business thought and literature: Management innovation in the developing world and the American business school
Authors: Yavitz Boris
Published: April 2007

A distinguished and widely experienced business school educator offers perceptive insights into the current limitations of North American business school study programs and the benefits that stand to be gained from tapping new management knowledge drawn from examining successful organizations in Latin America and elsewhere in the developing world. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The paradox of export‐oriented import protection: Reassessing South Korea's trade policy
Authors: Liang Neng
Published: April 2007

As an instrument for intervention, import protection can be used to pursue both outward‐oriented and inward‐oriented trade policies. Although the negative consequence of inward‐oriented protection has been well documented, the impact of an outward‐oriented import protection policy remains largely unknown. This study investigates the impact of such a policy in the case of South Korea. Empirical data on Korea's import protection, export incentives, output growth, and export performance are compiled and tested in a supply side framework. The findings of this study suggest that the well‐documented import protection measure is an integral element of Korea's export‐oriented trade policy and that it will be in the self interest of Western business to respond strategically to such outward‐oriented protection measures. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Evidence on managers' perceptions of effects of government control of the business environment: A Study of the republic of Korea
Authors: Han Dongchul , Ojah Kalu
Published: April 2007

This study provides empirical evidence on the perceptions of business managers on pertinent environmental variables affected by government control in a newly industrializing country. We document that the majority of surveyed firms are aware of the effect of government control on their activities. Managers perceive that political, legal, technological, and economic environments are potent sources of uncertainty (or value enhancement) for their firms as a result of government control. Furthermore, some firm‐and industry‐specific characteristics were found to buttress managers' perceptions of the effects of government control on their environments. To optimize foreign investments, these findings suggest that expanding firms strategically approach their entry into such foreign markets. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Incorporating international strategic alliances into overall firm strategy: A typology of six managerial objectives
Authors: Preece Stephen B.
Published: April 2007

This research differentiates between international strategic alliance (ISA) structures, functions, and objectives, focusing on the latter and the link to overall firm strategy. Six objectives are put forward–learning, leaning, leveraging, linking, leaping, and locking out–with a discussion of the strategic implications of each. From a theoretical perspective, it is suggested that more emphasis should be placed on ISA objectives as a means of supporting overall firm strategies, as opposed to focusing on ISA structures or functions. From an applied perspective, managers are encouraged to consider the long‐term strategic implications inherent in specific alliance arrangements. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Globalization and regionalization: Toward the shaping of a tripolar world economy?
Authors: Lévy Brigitte
Published: April 2007

Trade relations today are undergoing more fundamental change than at any time since immediately after World War II. The rules of the game in international economic relations have changed dramatically, particularly since the early 1980s. The multilateral trading system is facing a severe test, with an apparent tilting of the preferences of its major players in favor of subglobal arrangements. At the same time, a growing number of developing countries are embracing unilateral trade liberalization. This article presents how new developments in international business and trade affect international relations and the evolution of a new world order. In doing this, the process of globalization and economic integration, the building of economic blocs in Europe and North America, and the response from Asia will be examined. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Caspase‐8 dependent osteosarcoma cell apoptosis induced by proteasome inhibitor MG132
Authors: Yan Xiao‐Bo , Yang Di‐Sheng , Gao Xiang , Feng Jie , Shi Zhong‐Li , Ye Zhaoming
Published: April 2007

Many researchers have reported that proteasome inhibitors could induce apoptosis in a variety of cancer cells, such as breast cancer cell, lung cancer cell, and lymphoma cell. However, the effect of proteasome inhibitors on osteocsarcoma cells and the mechanisms are seldom studied. In this study, we found proteasome inhibitor MG132 was an effective inducer of apoptosis in human osteosarcoma MG‐63 cells. On normal human diploid fibroblast cells, MG132 did not show any apoptosis‐inducing effects. Apoptotic changes such as DNA fragment and apoptotic body were observed in MG132‐treated cells and MG132 mostly caused MG‐63 cell arrest at G2–M‐phase by cell cycle analysis. Increased activation of caspase‐8, accumulation of p27Kip1, and an increased ratio of Bax: Bcl‐2 were detected by RT—PCR and Western blot analysis. Activation of caspase‐3 and caspase‐9 were not observed. This suggests that the apoptosis induced by MG132 in MG63 cells is caspase‐8 dependent, p27 and bcl‐2 family related.
Tale of two spikes in bacteriophage PRD1
Authors: Huiskonen Juha T. , Manole Violeta , Butcher Sarah J.
Published: April 2007

Structural comparisons between bacteriophage PRD1 and adenovirus have revealed an evolutionary relationship that has contributed significantly to current ideas on virus phylogeny. However, the structural organization of the receptor-binding spike complex and how the different symmetry mismatches are mediated between the spike-complex proteins are not clear. We determined the architecture of the PRD1 spike complex by using electron microscopy and three-dimensional image reconstruction of a series of PRD1 mutants. We constructed an atomic model for the full-length P5 spike protein by using comparative modeling. P5 was shown to be bound directly to the penton base protein P31. P5 and the receptor-binding protein P2 form two separate spikes, interacting with each other near the capsid shell. P5, with a tumor necrosis factor-like head domain, may have been responsible for host recognition before capture of the current receptor-binding protein P2.
The effect of public health measures on the 1918 influenza pandemic in U.S. cities
Authors: Bootsma Martin C. J. , Ferguson Neil M.
Published: April 2007

During the 1918 influenza pandemic, the U.S., unlike Europe, put considerable effort into public health interventions. There was also more geographic variation in the autumn wave of the pandemic in the U.S. compared with Europe, with some cities seeing only a single large peak in mortality and others seeing double-peaked epidemics. Here we examine whether differences in the public health measures adopted by different cities can explain the variation in epidemic patterns and overall mortality observed. We show that city-specific per-capita excess mortality in 1918 was significantly correlated with 1917 per-capita mortality, indicating some intrinsic variation in overall mortality, perhaps related to sociodemographic factors. In the subset of 23 cities for which we had partial data on the timing of interventions, an even stronger correlation was found between excess mortality and how early in the epidemic interventions were introduced. We then fitted an epidemic model to weekly mortality in 16 cities with nearly complete intervention-timing data and estimated the impact of interventions. The model reproduced the observed epidemic patterns well. In line with theoretical arguments, we found the time-limited interventions used reduced total mortality only moderately (perhaps 10–30%), and that the impact was often very limited because of interventions being introduced too late and lifted too early. San Francisco, St. Louis, Milwaukee, and Kansas City had the most effective interventions, reducing transmission rates by up to 30–50%. Our analysis also suggests that individuals reactively reduced their contact rates in response to high levels of mortality during the pandemic.
Group selection and kin selection: Two concepts but one process
Authors: Lehmann Laurent , Keller Laurent , West Stuart , Roze Denis
Published: April 2007

In a recent paper, Traulsen and Nowak use a multilevel selection model to show that cooperation can be favored by group selection in finite populations [Traulsen A, Nowak M (2006)
Proc Natl Acad Sci USA
103:10952–10955]. The authors challenge the view that kin selection may be an appropriate interpretation of their results and state that group selection is a distinctive process “that permeates evolutionary processes from the emergence of the first cells to eusociality and the economics of nations.” In this paper, we start by addressing Traulsen and Nowak's challenge and demonstrate that all their results can be obtained by an application of kin selection theory. We then extend Traulsen and Nowak's model to life history conditions that have been previously studied. This allows us to highlight the differences and similarities between Traulsen and Nowak's model and typical kin selection models and also to broaden the scope of their results. Our retrospective analyses of Traulsen and Nowak's model illustrate that it is possible to convert group selection models to kin selection models without disturbing the mathematics describing the net effect of selection on cooperation.
An early modern human from Tianyuan Cave, Zhoukoudian, China
Authors: Shang Hong , Tong Haowen , Zhang Shuangquan , Chen Fuyou , Trinkaus Erik
Published: April 2007

Thirty-four elements of an early modern human (EMH) were found in Tianyuan Cave, Zhoukoudian, China in 2003. Dated to 42,000–39,000 calendrical years before present by using direct accelerator mass spectrometry radiocarbon, the Tianyuan 1 skeleton is among the oldest directly dated EMHs in eastern Eurasia. Morphological comparison shows Tianyuan 1 to have a series of derived modern human characteristics, including a projecting tuber symphyseos, a high anterior symphyseal angle, a broad scapular glenoid fossa, a reduced hamulus, a gluteal buttress, and a pilaster on the femora. Other features of Tianyuan 1 that are more common among EMHs are its modest humeral pectoralis major tuberosities, anteriorly rotated radial tuberosity, reduced radial curvature, and modest talar trochlea. It also lacks several mandibular features common among western Eurasian late archaic humans, including mandibular foramen bridging, mandibular notch asymmetry, and a large superior medial pterygoid tubercle. However, Tianyuan 1 exhibits several late archaic human features, such as its anterior to posterior dental proportions, a large hamulus length, and a broad and rounded distal phalangeal tuberosity. This morphological pattern implies that a simple spread of modern humans from Africa is unlikely.
Efficient target-selected mutagenesis in Caenorhabditis elegans: Toward a knockout for every gene
Authors: Cuppen Edwin , Gort Eelke , Hazendonk Esther , Mudde Josine , van de Belt José , Nijman Isaäc J. , Guryev Victor , Plasterk Ronald H.A.
Published: April 2007

Reverse genetic or gene-driven knockout approaches have contributed significantly to the success of model organisms for fundamental and biomedical research. Although various technologies are available for C. elegans, none of them scale very well for genome-wide application. To address this, we implemented a target-selected knockout approach that is based on random chemical mutagenesis and detection of single nucleotide mutations in genes of interest using high-throughput resequencing. A clonal library of 6144 EMS-mutagenized worms was established and screened, resulting in the identification of 1044 induced mutations in 109 Mbp, which translates into an average spacing between exonic mutations in the library of only 17 bp. We covered 25% of the open reading frames of 32 genes and identified one or more inactivating mutations (nonsense or splice site) in 84% of them. Extrapolation of our results indicates that nonsense mutations for >90% of all C. elegans genes are present in the library. To identify all of these mutations, one only needs to inspect those positions that—given the known specificity of the mutagen—can result in the introduction of a stop codon. We define these positions as nonsense introducing mutations (NIMs). The genome-wide collection of possible NIMs can be calculated for any organism with a sequenced genome and reduces the screening complexity by 200- to 2000-fold, depending on the organism and mutagen. For EMS-mutagenized C. elegans, there are only ∼500,000 NIMs. We show that a NIM genotyping approach employing high-density microarrays can, in principle, be used for the genome-wide identification of C. elegans knockouts.
Fine mapping of a swine quantitative trait locus for number of vertebrae and analysis of an orphan nuclear receptor, germ cell nuclear factor (NR6A1)
Authors: Mikawa Satoshi , Morozumi Takeya , Shimanuki Shin-Ichi , Hayashi Takeshi , Uenishi Hirohide , Domukai Michiko , Okumura Naohiko , Awata Takashi
Published: April 2007

The number of vertebrae in pigs varies and is associated with meat productivity. Wild boars, which are ancestors of domestic pigs, have 19 vertebrae. In comparison, European commercial breeds have 21–23 vertebrae, probably owing to selective breeding for enlargement of body size. We previously identified two quantitative trait loci (QTL) for the number of vertebrae on Sus scrofa chromosomes (SSC) 1 and 7. These QTL explained an increase of more than two vertebrae. Here, we performed a map-based study to define the QTL region on SSC1. By using three F2 experimental families, we performed interval mapping and recombination analyses and defined the QTL within a 1.9-cM interval. Then we analyzed the linkage disequilibrium of microsatellite markers in this interval and found that 10 adjacent markers in a 300-kb region were almost fixed in European commercial breeds. Genetic variation of the markers was observed in Asian local breeds or wild boars. This region encoded an orphan nuclear receptor, germ cell nuclear factor (NR6A1, formerly known as GCNF), which contained an amino acid substitution (Pro192Leu) coincident with the QTL. This substitution altered the binding activity of NR6A1 to its corepressors, nuclear receptor-associated protein 80 (RAP80) and nuclear receptor corepressor 1 (NCOR1). In addition, somites of mouse embryos demonstrated expression of NR6A1 protein. Together, these results suggest that NR6A1 is a strong candidate for one of the QTL that influence number of vertebrae in pigs.
PolyScan: An automatic indel and SNP detection approach to the analysis of human resequencing data
Authors: Chen Ken , McLellan Michael D. , Ding Li , Wendl Michael C. , Kasai Yumi , Wilson Richard K. , Mardis Elaine R.
Published: April 2007

Small insertions and deletions (indels) and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are common genetic variants that are thought to be associated with a wide variety of human diseases. Owing to the genome’s size and complexity, manually characterizing each one of these variations in an individual is not practical. While significant progress has been made in automated single-base mutation discovery from the sequences of diploid PCR products, automated and reliable detection of indels continues to pose difficult challenges. In this paper, we present PolyScan, an algorithm and software implementation designed to provide de novo heterozygous indel detection and improved SNP identification in the context of high-throughput medical resequencing. Tests on a human diploid PCR-based sequence data set, consisting of 90,270 traces from 13 genes, indicate that PolyScan identified ∼90% of the 151 consensus indel sites and ∼84% of the 1546 heterozygous indels previously identified by manual inspection. Tests on tumor-derived data show that PolyScan better identifies high-quality, low-level mutations as compared with other mutation detection software. Moreover, SNP identification improves when reprocessing the results of other programs. These results suggest that PolyScan may play a useful role in the post human genome project research era.