bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Self-assembled Helix from 4,6-Dimethylpyrimidine and Copper(II) Bromide
Authors: Ishida Takayuki , Yang Liming , Nogami Takashi
Published: October 2003

A 1:1 polymeric complex of 4,6-dimethlpyrimidine and CuBr2 was spontaneously resolved to afford a 61 helix. Steric effects seem to play an important role for constructing a helical structure. Magnetic measurements showed a uniform S = 1/2 1-D behavior. A dinuclear complex is also obtained as a precursor to the polymeric complex.
Adsorption and Photocatalytic Degradation of Toluene Vapor in Air on Highly Hydrophobic TiO2 Pillared Clay
Authors: Ooka Chihiro , Yoshida Hisao , Suzuki Kenzi , Hattori Tadashi
Published: October 2003

Hydrophobicity of TiO2 pillared clay prepared from different raw clays increased with the order of the raw clay; saponite < montmorillonite < fluorine mica. This order agreed with that of performance in both adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of toluene vapor in humid air.
Improved Cycleability of Oxygen Stoichiometric Li1+xMgyMn2−x−yO4+δ at Elevated Temperature
Authors: Deng Bohua , Nakamura Hiroyoshi , Yoshio Masaki
Published: October 2003

A new type of oxygen stoichiometric Mg-doped LiMn2O4 spinels with improved crystallinity and decreased surface area was prepared by a special “two-step” method. These materials exhibited greatly improved cycleabilty (ca. 1.5% capacity loss after 50 cycles) and reduced Mn dissolution at elevated temperature than conventional Mg-doped materials.
Enhanced Electrochemomechanical Behaviors of Polyaniline Films by Chloride Concentrations
Authors: Takashima Wataru , Nakashima Megumi , Pandey Shyam S , Kaneto Keiichi
Published: October 2003

Electrochemomechanical deformations (ECMD) of polyaniline film have been enhanced in hydrochloric acid (HCl) equilibrated in pH 1.2 with sodium chloride (NaCl). The maximum film deformation has been reached to 7%, which is two times larger than that observed in 1 M HCl. Taking the pH dependence of redox-potential into account, this enhancement can be explained by the increase of anion doping ratio.
Synthesis and Catalytic Activity of Niobium-Containing Hexagonal Mesoporous Silica
Authors: Liu Yanyong , Murata Kazuhisa , Inaba Megumu
Published: October 2003

Niobium-containing hexagonal mesoporous silica has been synthesized using n-dodecylamine as a template; the novel material is very active as a catalyst in the epoxidation of propylene with hydrogen peroxide and alkyl peroxides as oxidants.
Alkylation of α-Halo Diketones via Enol Phosphate Intermediate
Authors: Onishi Jim Yoshitaka , Takuwa Tomofumi , Mukaiyama Teruaki
Published: October 2003

β-Substituted α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds were obtained in moderate to high yields by a 1,4-addition of organocuprates to enol phosphate intermediates formed in situ from triethyl phosphite and 2-bromo-1,3-dicarbonyl compounds.
Synthesis of Nickel Sulfide via Hydrothermal Microemulsion Process: Nanosheet to Nanoneedle
Authors: Chen Deliang , Gao Lian , Zhang Peng
Published: October 2003

Monolayer-dispersed two-dimensional (2-D) nickel sulfide nanosheets have been synthesized by a simple microemulsion-assisted hydrothermal process. It has been found that the 2-D nanosheets can roll into one-dimensional (1-D) nanoneedles. The mechanisms of the sulfuration reaction and the formation of low-dimensional (LD) nanostructures were discussed.
Critical Role of Val567 in Substrate Recognition by Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase for NO Formation Activity
Authors: Takahashi Hiroto , Sato Yuko , Moreau Magoli , Sari Marie-Agnes , Boucher Jean-Luc , Mansuy Daniel , Sagami Ikuko , Shimizu Toru
Published: October 2003

Leu and Phe mutations at conserved Val567 located within the substrate binding site of neuronal nitric oxide synthase markedly lowered activity on the physiological substrates, l-Arg and NG-hydroxy-l-Arg, and other potential alkyl- and arylguanidine substrates, suggesting that the residue at this position is important for substrate recognition by the enzyme.
Patient satisfaction with teledermatology services
Authors: Hicks Lanis L , Boles Keith E , Hudson Stanton , Kling Barry , Tracy Joe , Mitchell Joyce , Webb Weldon
Published: October 2003

We collected data on patient satisfaction with the use of teledermatology services. During a 27-month study, a single dermatologist saw a total of 321 patients via telemedicine. The patients completed 483 surveys, although not all questions were answered on all surveys. There was a high level of satisfaction among patients using teledermatology: 88% of 258 respondents said that they were satisfied with their telemedicine session. In terms of the eight questions on the questionnaire, 84% of the responses were in the top two positive categories on a seven-point Likert scale. In addition, access to dermatology appeared to increase with the availability of the telemedicine service.
Temperature and pH Effect on the Sorption of Divalent Metal Ions by Silica Gel
Authors: Mustafa S. , Dilara B. , Naeem A. , Rehana N. , Nargis K.
Published: October 2003

The sorption of Zn2+, Ni2+ and Cd2+ ions by silica gel was studied as a function of ion concentration, pH and temperature. An increase in all three parameters led to an increase in the extent of sorption for all the metal cations studied. The selectivity of the solid was observed to be in the order Zn2+ > Ni2+ > Cd2+. Sorption of the metal cations was accompanied by the release of H+ ions into the bulk phase. On average two moles of H+ ions were released per mole of metal cation sorbed. The sorption data fitted the linear forms of both the Kurbatov and Langmuir adsorption equations. The values of the binding constants were used to estimate the apparent thermodynamic parameters, ΔH and ΔS, for the adsorption process. FT-IR spectroscopic studies also showed that the uptake of metal cations by the silica gel occurred via a cation-exchange process.
Adsorption Characteristics of Lead-, Barium- and Hydrogen-Rich Clinoptilolite Mineral
Authors: Cakicioglu-Ozkan Fehime , Ulku Semra
Published: October 2003

The carbon dioxide and water vapour adsorption properties of local clinoptilolite-rich material, both as the original and as lead-, barium- and hydrogen-rich forms, were examined. The lead- and barium-rich forms were prepared by treatment of the original clinoptilolite with Pb(NO3)2 and BaCl2 respectively, while the hydrogen-rich form was prepared by NH4Cl and heat treatment. Water and CO2 adsorption experiments were conducted in a volumetric system under static conditions, with low-pressure adsorption data being used for the characterization of the natural, Pb-rich, Ba-rich and H-rich clinoptilolite samples. Although the existence of barium-exchange was not noted, an appreciable decrease in CO2 adsorption was observed with the Pb-rich and H-rich forms due to a decrease in the electrostatic interaction between the surface and the adsorbate. Application of the Dubinin–Astakhov equation to the water adsorption data established the existence of micropores of different sizes that exhibited different adsorption mechanisms.
The Dynamic Response and Characteristics of an Oxygen Vacuum Swing Adsorption Process to Step Perturbations. Part 1. Open Loop Responses
Authors: Beh C.C.K. , Webley P.A.
Published: October 2003

Oxygen vacuum swing adsorption (VSA) has emerged as an important unit operation in many chemical engineering processes such as iron and aluminium smelting, making oxygen the third largest man-made chemical commodity in the world. Although a mature technology (with the first patents published in the 1970s), oxygen VSA processes are still not well understood due to their complicated batch-like operation, inherent non-linearities and inverse responses associated with the operating conditions. Step perturbations of manipulated variables together with the process response provide valuable information for the study of system dynamics, the extent of interaction and control loop pairings.

The first part of this study presents data from input perturbations gathered from a pilot-scale experimental oxygen VSA process. The interesting time-variant temperature profiles, and bed and system pressures, flows and purity are the main focus of the discussion. Furthermore, the possible applications of this knowledge for heuristic-based control are discussed.
The Dynamic Response and Characteristics of an Oxygen Vacuum Swing Adsorption Process to Step Perturbations. Part 2. Sensitivity Analysis and Controller Pairings
Authors: Beh C.C.K. , Webley P.A.
Published: October 2003

The application of vacuum swing adsorption (VSA) as a method for the production of low-purity oxygen is now a mature and widely used technology. However, unlike other unit operations, VSA processes remain difficult to understand and, coupled by the lack of theoretical developments in batch process control, make them difficult to control. The objective of the second part of this study was to characterise the step response data gained from Part 1 using empirical modelling techniques. This information was then used to analyse the sensitivity of the input variables and hence permit determination of the extent of closed-loop interaction and identification of suitable controller parings.
Porous Structure Evolution of Cellulose Carbon Fibres during Oxidation in Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Babeł Krzysztof
Published: October 2003

The isothermal oxidation of regenerated cellulose carbon fibres in the presence of CO2 or steam was described, together with the changes in the porous structures of the active fibres that evolve during different stages of the process. Three such stages were defined. In the initial stage of heating and out-gassing, changes in the porous structure were related to the violent pyrolysis that occurred. As a result, a considerable number of micropores (accessible to nitrogen) were generated together with a small number of mesopores. The next stage (principal activation stage) involved burning at a constant rate accompanied by an uniform increase in the micropore volume. In the third stage, an increased rate of oxidation was observed. This was accompanied by the development of transitional pores linked with the simultaneous limitation of micropore evolution. This stage was not efficient.
Removal of Radioactive Iodide by Surfactant-Modified Zeolites
Authors: Faghihian Hossein , Malekpour Akbar , Maragheh Mohammad G.
Published: October 2003

The removal of radionuclides such as 129I and 131I from radioactive liquid wastes was studied. Two natural zeolites were modified with different quaternary alkylammonium ions to replace the exchangeable cations from the zeolite surface and used as adsorbent materials. The quaternary ions used for such purpose were hexadecyltrimethylammonium, tetradecyltrimethylammonium, dodecyltrimethylammonium, tetrabutylammonium and tetramethylammonium, respectively. Some of the modified forms exhibited an adsorption capacity much higher than those of the respective natural samples. In contrast, the adsorption capacity was negligible when tetrabutylammonium and tetramethylammonium ions were used. Adsorption experiments were conducted by batch and continuous experiments, and adsorption isotherms constructed from the data obtained. The effect of interfering anions on the adsorption capacity was also investigated as were the breakthrough behaviours of radioiodide in a column charged with the various adsorbents. Desorption of iodide from the modified zeolites into different solutions was also investigated. It was concluded that, in some cases, surfactant modification was an efficient process for the uptake and immobilization of iodide.
Using An Exponential Equation to Describe Adsorption/Desorption Processes of Water on Composite Soil at Constant Pressure
Authors: Ma Lianxi , Holste James C. , Hall Kenneth R.
Published: October 2003

Using the assumption that adsorption as a function of time may be expressed by an exponential equation, viz. ΔM = g + he−t/τ, it is possible to obtain the amount of water vapour adsorbed by a composite soil without waiting for equilibrium, which usually takes a long time. Given the experimental data for the amounts adsorbed versus time, one can determine g, h and τ, together with the amounts adsorbed at equilibrium by extrapolating the above equation to t → ∞. It is also possible to calculate the error trends in these parameters as a function of time by comparing the values at time t with those obtained for the longest experimental time. The error trends of the equation with time arise from the comparison of the experimental values with those predicted by the exponential equation. We have discovered that although different lengths of time are necessary for different pressures, generally a time between 1.5τ and 2τ is sufficient to obtain reliable results with errors less than 5%. We have also found that this equation describes the desorption process as well.
Pore Characterization of Carbonaceous Materials by DFT and GCMC Simulations: A Review
Authors: Do D.D. , Do H.D.
Published: October 2003

A review is given of the pore characterization of carbonaceous materials, including activated carbon, carbon fibres, carbon nanotubes, etc., using adsorption techniques. Since the pores of carbon media are mostly of molecular dimensions, the appropriate modern tools for the analysis of adsorption isotherms are grand canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulations and density functional theory (DFT). These techniques are presented and applications of such tools in the derivation of pore-size distribution highlighted.
Surface and Catalytic Properties of the CuO/Al2O3 System as Influenced by Treating with Trace Amounts of MoO3
Authors: Mokhtar M.
Published: October 2003

A CuO/Al2O3 solid containing 0.2 mol% CuO (0.2CuO/Al2O3) and three MoO3-doped variants of this material were all prepared via the wet impregnation method, the amount of dopant added to the CuO/Al2O3 solid being 0.25, 1.0 or 2.0 mol% MoO3, respectively. All the samples prepared were heated in air to 350, 450 or 600°C, respectively, before being cooled to room temperature and stored.

X-Ray studies of these materials showed that the undoped (pure) solid calcined at 350°C exhibited all the diffractions lines associated with the AlO(OH) and CuO phases with an excellent degree of crystallinity. Doping the pure solid resulted in the effective progressive decrease in the degree of crystallinity of both the above-mentioned phases to an extent proportional to the amount of dopant added. Increasing the calcination temperature of the pure and doped solids to 650°C led to a significant decrease in the degree of ordering of CuO due to the formation of poorly crystalline γ-Al2O3 having a much better dispersion power relative to AlO(OH).

The specific surface areas of the various samples were found to decrease progressively as the amount of dopant added was increased, especially for samples calcined at 650°C. Increasing the calcination temperature of the pure sample within the range 350–650°C led to a small increase in their catalytic activities in H2O2 decomposition. In contrast, MoO3 treatment followed by calcination of the resulting materials in the range 350–650°C resulted in a significant increase in their catalytic activities in the same catalytic reaction. The maximum increase in the catalytic activity at 30°C attained values of 720%, 735% and 976% for the doped solids calcined at 350, 450 and 650°C, respectively. In contrast, however, such doping brought about a progressive measurable decrease in the catalytic activity of the treated solids towards CO oxidation by O2 when this latter reaction was conducted over the temperature range 150–250°C.
Synthesis of Novel Crosslinked Chitosans with a Higher Fatty Diacid Diglycidyl and Their Adsorption Abilities towards Acid Dyes
Authors: Shimizu Yoshiaki , Taga Atsushi , Yamaoka Hitoshi
Published: October 2003

Novel chitosan-based adsorbent materials with a higher fatty diacid diglycidyl as the crosslinking agent were synthesized and the adsorption abilities of the resulting polymers evaluated towards typical acid dyes. The successful formation of a crosslinked structure was confirmed via infrared spectroscopic measurements and the solubility of the polymer towards 10% aqueous solutions of acetic and formic acids determined. At higher dye concentrations, the adsorption abilities of the crosslinked chitosan towards hydrophilic CI Acid Orange 7 and CI Acid Red 1 increased with decreasing degree of substitution. However, at lower dye concentrations, the crosslinked chitosan with the lowest degree of substitution exhibited the lowest adsorption capability. With such hydrophilic acid dyes, the extent of adsorption decreased significantly as the pH of the solution increased. On the other hand, CI Acid Red 138, which contains a dodecyl group in the chemical structure, was adsorbed to a considerable extent even at higher pH values, suggesting hydrophobic interaction between the alkyl group in the dye molecule and the hydrophobic crosslinker.
The Removal of Methylene Blue Dye from Aqueous Solutions Using Activated and Non-Activated Bentonites
Authors: Al-Asheh Sameer , Banat Fawzi , Abu-Aitah Leena
Published: October 2003

An improvement in the adsorption capacity of naturally available bentonite towards water pollutants such as Methylene Blue dye (MBD) is certainly needed. For this purpose, sodium bentonite was activated by two methods: (1) treatment with sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) as an ionic surfactant and (2) thermal treatment in an oven operated at 850°C. Batch adsorption tests were carried out on removing MBD from aqueous solution using the above-mentioned bentonites. It was found that the effectiveness of bentonites towards MBD removal was in the following order: thermal-bentonite > SDS-bentonite > natural bentonite. X-Ray diffraction analysis showed that an increase in the microscopic bentonite platelets on treatment with SDS was the reason behind the higher uptake of MBD. An increase in sorbent concentration or initial pH value of the solutions resulted in a greater removal of MBD from the solution. An increase in temperature led to an increase in MBD uptake by the bentonites studied in this work. The Freundlich isotherm model was employed and found to represent the experimental data well.
Adsorption of Polydisperse Polyvinyl Alcohol Molecules on the Surface of Activated Carbons
Authors: Barkauskas J. , Vinslovaite A.
Published: October 2003

The adsorption of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) on activated carbons was studied in aqueous solutions. Each batch of activated carbon produced was obtained via a definite number of technological operations using wood as the raw material. The adsorption process was studied using a gel chromatography technique with potentiometric titrations being employed for evaluating the chemical composition of the activated carbons produced. The data obtained from the various activated carbon samples were compared to ascertain the adsorption mechanism.

It was concluded that water molecules had a limited influence on the competitive process of polymer adsorption. A rather pronounced negative correlation between the number of phenol functional groups and PVA adsorption capacity was observed, indicating that these groups hindered the adsorption process. Assumptions concerning the role of phenol functional groups were made, taking into account not only the surface heterogeneity but also changes in the electron density of the graphene layers in the carbon substrate.
Removal of Cu2+ Ions from Aqueous Solutions by Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Li Yan-Hui , Luan Zhaokun , Xiao Xu , Zhou Xiangwen , Xu Cailu , Wu Dehai , Wei Bingqing
Published: October 2003

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), a new crystalline form in the carbon family, have been shown to be an effective adsorbent for Cu2+ ion removal from aqueous solution. After oxidation with nitric acid, the adsorption capacity of the oxidized CNTs towards Cu2+ ions at a pH of 5.2 reached 27.6 mg/g, compared to a value of only 14.4 mg/g for the as-grown CNTs under the same circumstances. Increasing the pH to 5.4 led to 95% removal of Cu2+ ions with the oxidized CNTs, whereas with the as-grown CNTs it was necessary to increase the pH to 8.6 to achieve the same extent of removal. The Cu2+ ion adsorption capacity increased with increasing CNT dosage for the different initial Cu2+ ion concentrations. The kinetic curve for adsorption of the Cu2+ ions suggested that not only the outer surfaces but also inner cavities and inter-layers in the structures of the CNTs were responsible for the removal of the ion from aqueous solutions.
An Effective Flat Plate Solar Heating and Cooling Hybrid System
Authors: Li M. , Wang R.Z. , Yun F. , Shi F. , Wang L.L. , Luo H.L.
Published: October 2003

Based on the achievements of solar solid adsorption refrigeration research, a new hybrid heating and cooling system, related to the solar water heater technique, has been proposed. The conversion and utilization of solar energy for cooling and heating are also analyzed. Experiments on a prototype have shown that both the available (residual) and adsorption heats of the adsorbent bed can be recovered efficiently and simply. The results of some simulations of this new flat plate under real solar radiation are given, as well as comparisons with our previous research work. The successful design and assessment of this new flat plate hybrid system should accelerate the practical application of solid adsorption refrigeration driven by solar energy.
Prestressed CFRP Sheets for Strengthening Concrete Slabs in Fatigue
Authors: Wight R. G. , Erki M. A.
Published: October 2003

Six one-way reinforced concrete slabs were constructed and tested to investigate the effectiveness of using prestressed carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets to strengthen concrete slabs subjected to fatigue loading. The slabs were 90mm × 1000mm × 3000mm and reinforced with 11.3mm diameter steel reinforcing bars. The slabs were tested in two groups of three slabs. In each group, one slab was unstrengthened and used as a control, the second slab was strengthened with non-prestressed FRP sheets and the third slab was strengthened with prestressed sheets. For the first group, the loading range for the three slabs was based on the loads that induced in the reinforcing steel of the control slab stresses that ranged between 10 and 95 percent of the steel yield strength. For the second group, the loading range chosen for the three slabs induced steel stresses in its control slab that ranged between 30 and 95 percent of the steel yield strength. Therefore, the first group of slabs was subjected to a higher load amplitude but lower mean stress than the second group. The CFRP strengthened slabs of the second group were externally loaded while applying the CFRP sheets, to represent the sustained load that may be associated with field strengthening conditions. The test results confirmed that strengthening reinforced concrete slabs with bonded CFRP sheets, especially prestressed CFRP sheets, increases fatigue life. Common to strengthening with non-prestressed and prestressed CFRP sheets are that compared to the control slabs, strains in the steel reinforcement, plastic creep strains in the concrete, and deflections are all decreased, with greater decreases in all these observed with prestressed CFRP sheets. Crack widths are greatly reduced when the CFRP sheets are prestressed. Since fatigue failure of the internal steel occurred at the location of large cracks that were repetitively opened and closed, reducing the crack widths contributes to achieving longer fatigue life. Finally, the presence of anchors at the ends of the CFRP sheets can delay the ultimate fatigue failure of CFRP strengthened slabs by delaying sheet debonding failures.
Shear-Bending Interaction in Debonding Failures of FRP-Plated RC Beams
Authors: Smith S. T. , Teng J. G.
Published: October 2003

Fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) plates can be bonded to the tension face of a reinforced concrete (RC) beam to increase its flexural capacity. Many studies have reported premature failure by debonding of the FRP plate before the ultimate flexural capacity of the plated section is reached, and the most commonly reported debonding failure mode occurs at or near the plate end. This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation into the interaction between shear force and bending moment at the plate end at debonding for FRP plated beams by varying the length of plate. The experimental results are compared with a plate end debonding strength model recently proposed by the authors in which this interaction is ignored. A bi-linear approximation is then proposed to describe the interaction between the shear force and the bending moment at the plate end at debonding based on the present results. The effect of U strip end anchorage, used to delay or prevent plate end debonding, is also assessed in this study but it is shown that U strip end anchorage provides only limited strength enhancement.
Concrete Structures Strengthened with near Surface Mounted Reinforcement of CFRP
Authors: Täljsten Björn , Carolin Anders , Nordin Håkan
Published: October 2003

The need of maintenance, repair and upgrading of concrete structures has increased considerably over the last decade and will most likely continue to do so. There can be several reasons for this, but it can often be attributed to normal change of use, increased demands on the structure, errors in the design and/or construction phase or in the worst case, accidents. Different methods have been developed over the years for solving different rehabilitation problems. Recently, advanced composites used for external bonding in the form of fabrics or laminates have become an accepted method. Several thousands of objects around the world have been upgraded with advanced composites bonded to its surface. In most cases, this method is very competitive regarding both structural behaviour and economy, but there are also some drawbacks. The surface bonded composite material is relatively sensitive to fire, accidents or vandalism. In addition, the pre-treatment is relatively intensive and time consuming. However, if the composite material is placed in slots in the concrete cover some of these drawbacks can be overcome. This paper presents work carried out on near surface mounted reinforcement (NSMR) at Luleå University of Technology in Sweden.
New Flexible System of Transverse Reinforcement for RC Piers
Authors: Tuladhar Roshan , Utsunomiya Yoshinori , Ueda Tamon
Published: October 2003

In this paper Polyacetal Fibre (PAF) is demonstrated as a new continuous system of shear reinforcement replacing major parts of dense steel tie. Five reinforced concrete piers were tested under reversed (or back and forth) cyclic loading to study the performance of the new material in withstanding the very high shear without premature rupture. A simple clamping system was developed, tested and successfully used to clamp the two extremities of the continuous PAF shear reinforcement. Rupture failure of the PAF at the bent-portions has been avoided. The desirable confinement is acquired with a network of inner and outer core concrete and consequently strength and ductility are enhanced. The effect of the confinement action of PAF continuous shear reinforcement is represented by the strain development in the PAF as a function of displacement level, average PAF strain and applied number of repeated cyclic displacement reversals. A generalized approximate formulation is suggested which shows good correlation with available data and boundary conditions.
Stay-In-Place FRP Form for Concrete Columns
Authors: Mirmiran Amir
Published: October 2003

Advanced fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) composites can be used in combination with traditional materials in a number of different applications such as slabs, beams, columns and piles. The advantages of combined construction include the cost-effectiveness and the ability to optimize the cross section based on material properties of each component. The most efficient use of FRP stay-in-place form is for concrete columns, as it eliminates the need for internal reinforcement and protects concrete against environmental effects. This paper provides a thorough review of the basic principles and research findings to date on the stay-in-place FRP forms for concrete columns. The various design issues including confinement modelling, axial-flexural behaviour, time-dependent behaviour, buckling and slenderness, pile driving, seismic behaviour, connections and modular construction, shear behaviour, fatigue performance, and nondestructive testing and inspection of stay-in-place FRP-concrete columns are discussed. The study to date shows the feasibility and effectiveness of the system for civil engineering applications.
Durability of FRP Composites for Civil Infrastructure — Myth, Mystery or Reality
Authors: Karbhari V. M.
Published: October 2003

Although fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) composite applications for civil infrastructure have been extensively investigated over the past decade through laboratory tests and field demonstrations, there is still a significant concern related to their long-term durability. In part this concern is based on the differences between FRP composites, which are intrinsically tailorable, and the more conventional metallic and cementitious materials used previously. This paper describes the current status of durability of these materials through a discussion of the myths, mystery and the reality concerning durability. It is shown that although FRP composites do undergo degradation their performance attributes can provide significant advantages over conventional materials in civil infrastructure applications.
FRP for Structural Rehabilitation in China
Authors: Yue Qingrui , Yang Yongxin
Published: October 2003

The application of Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) in civil engineering is a growing field in the world. Recent developments in mainland China in structural strengthening and rehabilitation using FRP are discussed in this paper. It includes general research, application, standards and specifications. Specific problems related to the use of this technology in mainland China are also examined.
Use of NSAIDs for the Chemoprevention of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Herendeen Jill M , Lindley Celeste
Published: October 2003

OBJECTIVE:

To discuss the role of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the chemoprevention of colorectal cancer.

DATA SOURCES:

A MEDLINE search (1966–May 2003) was performed to identify key literature. Search items included, but were not limited to, NSAIDs, colorectal cancer, chemoprevention, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)–specific inhibitors, and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:

The search included experimental (in vitro and animal models) and clinical studies evaluating the use of NSAIDs for the chemoprevention of colorectal cancer. The MEDLINE search was supplemented by references from selected articles.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

Numerous experimental, epidemiologic, and clinical studies suggest that NSAIDs have promise as anticancer agents. The mechanism by which NSAIDs lead to decreased colon carcinogenesis is not fully understood, but may involve restoration of apoptosis and inhibition of prostaglandin-mediated angiogenesis. Compelling evidence from many observational studies has consistently documented a 40–50% reduction in the risk of adenomatous polyps, colorectal cancer incidence, and mortality in patients using NSAIDs. Recent randomized, controlled trials have demonstrated a benefit with aspirin in reducing the rate of development of new or recurrent adenomas in high-risk patients. In addition, randomized studies using sulindac and celecoxib in patients with FAP have documented significant regression of existing adenomatous polyps.

CONCLUSIONS:

Inhibition of COX-2 is an example of a targeted approach to the chemoprevention of colorectal cancer. However, controversy exists about the safety, efficacy, and optimal treatment regimen of NSAIDs as long-term chemopreventive agents in the general population. Ongoing studies in high-risk patients with both selective and nonselective COX inhibitors will provide important information in the area of colorectal chemoprevention, but clinical trials' use of adenomas as surrogate markers for chemoprevention trials makes their application to the general population limited.
Enteric-Coated Mycophenolate Sodium
Authors: Gabardi Steven , Tran Jennifer L , Clarkson Michael R
Published: October 2003

OBJECTIVE:

To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of mycophenolate sodium.

DATA SOURCES:

Primary literature was obtained via a MEDLINE search (1966–June 2003). Abstracts were obtained from the manufacturer and included in the analysis.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:

All studies and abstracts evaluating mycophenolate sodium in solid organ transplantation were considered for inclusion. English-language studies and abstracts were selected for inclusion, but were limited to those consisting of human subjects.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

Mycophenolate sodium, a mycophenolic acid prodrug, is an inhibitor of T-lymphocyte proliferation. Mycophenolic acid reduces the incidence of acute rejection in renal transplantation. Mycophenolate sodium is enteric coated and has been suggested as a potential method to reduce the gastrointestinal adverse events seen with mycophenolate mofetil. Both mycophenolate mofetil and mycophenolate sodium have been shown to be therapeutically equivalent at decreasing the incidence of allograft rejection and loss. The frequency of adverse events is similar between both compounds, with the most common events being diarrhea and leukopenia.

CONCLUSIONS:

Mycophenolate sodium is effective in preventing acute rejection in renal transplant recipients. At doses of 720 mg twice daily, the efficacy and safety profiles are similar to those of mycophenolate mofetil 1000 mg twice daily. Mycophenolate sodium has been approved in Switzerland; approval in the US is pending.
Levels of measurement and analysis issues in organizational citizenship behaviour research
Authors: Schnake Mel E. , Dumler Michael P.
Published: October 2003

The majority of work in organizational behaviour has been conducted at the individual level of theory, measurement and analysis. While the field of organizational behaviour may be viewed as largely mixed‐level, incorporating individual, group and organizational‐level phenomena, relatively few group‐level and mixed‐level theories with corresponding levels of research exist. This is particularly problematic for organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB) research, since OCB is theorized to exist at multiple levels. Several individual‐level and group‐level antecedents affect OCB, but it is OCB in the aggregate (i.e. group and organizational level) which impacts organizational effectiveness, which is another organizational‐level phenomenon.

A brief review of group‐level and mixed‐level research methodology is presented and these methods are then applied to a burgeoning area of organizational behaviour research, one which is inherently group and mixed‐level, organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB). Implications of the different levels of measurement and analysis for OCB theory development and testing are discussed.
Organizational commitment, turnover intentions and the influence of cultural values
Authors: Wasti S. Arzu
Published: October 2003

The moderating influence of idiocentrism and allocentrism on the relationship between organizational commitment and turnover intentions was examined. The investigation evolved over two phases. In Study 1, emic (culture‐specific) items were generated through in‐depth interviews with Turkish employees, and the commitment scales by Meyer, Allen, and Smith (1993) were revised to make them more appropriate for the Turkish context. In Study 2, turnover intentions were predicted as a function of an individual's affective, continuance, normative commitment, and social factors, operationalized as the approval of the family. The results indicated that affective commitment was an important predictor of turnover intentions irrespective of idiocentric or allocentric values. However, normative commitment and social factors were weaker predictors for individuals who endorsed idiocentric, values and social factors were a stronger predictor for allocentrics. These findings underline the importance of a normative perspective on organizational commitment, especially for collectivistic contexts.
Predicting job performance using FFM and non‐FFM personality measures
Authors: Salgado Jesús F.
Published: October 2003

This study compares the criterion validity of the Big Five personality dimensions when assessed using Five‐Factor Model (FFM)‐based inventories and non‐FFM‐based inventories. A large database consisting of American as well as European validity studies was meta‐analysed. The results showed that for conscientiousness and emotional stability, the FFM‐based inventories had greater criterion validity than the non FFM‐based inventories. Conscientiousness showed an operational validity of .28 (N = 19,460, 90% CV = .07) for FFM‐based inventories and .18 (N =5,874, 90% CV = ‐.04) for non‐FFM inventories. Emotional stability showed an operational validity of .16 (N = 10,786, 90% CV = .04) versus .05 (N = 4,541, 90% CV = ‐.05) for FFM and non‐FFM‐based inventories, respectively. No relevant differences emerged for extraversion, openness, and agreeableness. From a practical point of view, these findings suggest that practitioners should use inventories based on the FFM in order to make personnel selection decisions.
Innovative behaviour and job involvement at the price of conflict and less satisfactory relations with co‐workers
Authors: Janssen Onne
Published: October 2003

Although innovative behaviour is widely claimed to contribute to long term organizational effectiveness, the price that an individual worker may have to pay for taking an innovative approach has generally not been examined. The present study hypothesizes that a worker's innovative behaviour interacts with his or her job involvement in producing conflict and less satisfactory relations with resisting co‐workers who want to prevent innovative change. Moreover, conflict with co‐workers is hypothesized to mediate the interactive effect of innovative behaviour and job involvement on satisfaction with co‐worker relations. These hypotheses were supported in a survey study among 76 secondary school teachers based on supervisor ratings of the teachers' innovative behaviour and teachers' self‐report data of job involvement, conflict with co‐workers and satisfaction with co‐worker relations.
Development and validation of the Emotional Labour Scale
Authors: Brotheridge Céleste M. , Lee Raymond T.
Published: October 2003

This paper describes the development and validation of the Emotional Labour Scale (ELS) as tested on samples of 296 and 238 respondents. The ELS is a 15‐item self‐report questionnaire that measures six facets of emotional display in the workplace, including the frequency, intensity and variety of emotional display, the duration of interaction, and surface and deep acting. Estimates of internal consistency for the subscales ranged from .74 to .91. Confirmatory factor analysis results provided support for the existence of six unidimensional subscales. Evidence was also provided for convergent and discriminant validity.
The effects of age, sex and tenure on the job performance of rubber tappers
Authors: Ali Hassan , Davies D. Roy
Published: October 2003

Data on job performance were collected for 1,053 male (N = 461) and female (N = 592) rubber tappers from nine different estates in Malaysia, and analysed for age, sex and tenure differences. Job performance data were based on output measures derived from production records over a 12‐month period. Since the type of terrain varied considerably across plantations, terrain was classified as either ‘hilly’ or ‘undulating’ and the effects of terrain type on performance were also examined. The relationship between age and total output took the form of an inverted U. Partial correlation analyses indicated that tenure, rather than age, was the main determinant of job performance. More experienced rubber tappers were found to perform better than less experienced rubber tappers. Women had significantly higher output levels than did men. Tappers working on estates with predominantly hilly terrains produced significantly higher levels of output than did tappers working on estates with predominantly undulating terrains. Neither sex nor tenure interacted significantly with terrain. These results are discussed in relation to previous research concerned with group differences in job performance.
Exploring coping reactions to work‐stress: Application of an appraisal theory
Authors: Lowe Rob , Bennett Paul
Published: October 2003

Previous research has focused on influences of coping on emotional and behavioural outcomes. Less is known about why people cope in the way they do. Drawing on an appraisal theory of emotion, it was expected that secondary appraisal components would be related to coping. Information on appraisal components, emotions, and coping in relation to a recent work stressor was provided by 107 female nurses. Appraisals were associated with coping in theoretically interpretable ways (e.g. active coping and behavioural disengagement with optimistic and pessimistic appraisals of problem‐focused coping potential, respectively). The study highlighted emotion theory as useful for exploring possible coping antecedents in a conceptually integrated way.
A daily diary study of goals and affective well‐being at work
Authors: Harris Claire , Daniels Kevin , Briner Rob B.
Published: October 2003

We examine whether attainment of goals at work is associated with enhanced affective well‐being and whether attainment of personally more important goals has a stronger association with affective well‐being. Data were collected from call‐centre staff using a daily diary for 2 weeks. Results indicate that daily attainment of work goals is associated with more activated affect measured at the end of the working day. The relationship between attainment of goals and pleasurable affect is stronger where goals are personally more important.
‘I ain't never seen a nigger’: the discourse of denial in Lee Smath's The Devil's Dream
Authors: Stein Daniel T.
Published: October 2003

This essay investigates the marginalization of African American musical culture in Appalachian native Lee Smith’s novel The Devil’s Dream (1992). It contrasts the author’s fictional treatment of country-music history with musicological and historical documentation
of cross-cultural interaction between black and white folk musicians in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. In particular, the essay traces a discourse of denial through which the firstperson narrators of the novel negate black influences while implicitly acknowledging them.
Molybdän‐ und Wolframimidoalkylidenkomplexe als effiziente Olefinmetathesekatalysatoren
Authors: Schrock Richard R. , Hoveyda Amir H.
Published: October 2003

Die katalytische Olefinmetathese hat sich schnell zu einer der am häufigsten eingesetzten Transformationen der modernen chemischen Synthese entwickelt. Ein Klasse von Katalysatoren, die den Weg zu dieser bedeutenden Entwicklung wiesen, sind die hochoxidierten Alkylidenkomplexe des Molybdäns. Dieser Aufsatz umreißt entscheidende Beobachtungen, die zur Entdeckung und Entwicklung von Molybdän‐ und Wolfram‐Metathesekatalysatoren führten. Schwerpunktmäßig beschrieben wird der Einsatz von Molybdänkatalysatoren in der Synthese biologisch relevanter Verbindungen und die Verwendung von chiralen Molybdänkomplexen zur enantioselektiven Synthese. Derartige hocheffiziente Katalysatoren eröffnen einen einzigartigen Zugang zu Materialien von außergewöhnlicher Enantiomerenreinheit, häufig unter Vermeidung von Lösungsmittelabfällen.
Magnetic Control of Electrocatalytic and Bioelectrocatalytic Processes
Authors: Willner Itamar , Katz Eugenii
Published: October 2003

Bioelectronics is a rapidly progressing interdisciplinary research field that has important implications for the development of biosensors, biofuel cells, biomaterial‐based computers, and bioelectronic devices. Magneto‐controlled molecular electronics and bioelectronics are new topics that examine the effect of an external magnetic field on electrocatalytic and bioelectrocatalytic processes of functionalized magnetic particles associated with electrodes. In this article we describe the progress in the developments of magneto‐switchable electrocatalytic and bioelectrocatalytic transformations, and the effects of the rotation of the magnetic particles on the electrocatalytic and bioelectrocatalytic processes are discussed. Finally, the implications of the results on the development of biosensors, amplified immunosensors, and DNA sensors are described.
Molybdenum and Tungsten Imido Alkylidene Complexes as Efficient Olefin‐Metathesis Catalysts
Authors: Schrock Richard R. , Hoveyda Amir H.
Published: October 2003

Catalytic olefin metathesis has quickly emerged as one of the most often‐used transformations in modern chemical synthesis. One class of catalysts that has led the way to this significant development are the high‐oxidation‐state alkylidene complexes of molybdenum. In this review key observations that resulted in the discovery and development of molybdenum‐ and tungsten‐based metathesis catalysts are outlined. An account of the utility of molybdenum catalysts in the synthesis of biologically significant molecules is provided as well. Another focus of the review is the use of chiral molybdenum complexes for enantioselective synthesis. These highly efficient catalysts provide unique access to materials of exceptional enantiomeric purity and often without generating solvent waste.
Children's rights in schools: what do teachers know?
Authors: Shumba Almon
Published: October 2003

The human rights of children are fundamental international human rights that protect all children against abuse by adults and caregivers as enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. This study examines teachers' and teacher trainees' knowledge of children's rights as enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (United Nations General Assembly, 1989), the Public Service (Disciplinary) Regulations (Statutory Instrument 65 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, 1992) and the Secretary of Education and Culture Circular P35 of 3 May 1993 on the administration of corporal punishment by teachers in Zimbabwean primary schools. Data were collected using the Teacher and the Teacher Trainees Questionnaires on 300 primary school teachers and 150 teacher trainees, respectively, in Masvingo Province. Teacher trainees used in this study were attached to experienced primary school teachers during their teaching practice. The study found that the majority of teachers (76.3%) were exposed to the Public Service (Disciplinary) Regulations during their teacher education training. On the other hand, the majority of teacher trainees (60.0%) were not exposed to these Regulations during their training. The Public Service (Disciplinary) Regulations are used to charge teachers who violate children's rights within the school. The majority of teachers (59.3%) feel they are useful, while the majority of teacher trainees (60.0%) feel they are outdated and need to be changed. On the other hand, the majority of teacher trainees (55.3%) indicated that they were exposed to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child or the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (OAU Doc. CAB/LEG/24.9/49, 1990), while the majority of teachers (56.7%) were not exposed to either of these during their teacher education training. The study also found that the majority of teacher trainees (63.3%) were not exposed to the Secretary of Education and Culture Circular P35 on corporal punishment by teachers within schools during their teaching practice. It is clear from the ﬁndings that the teacher education curriculum needs to be revised to take account of current trends and contemporary issues in education in the new millennium. Therefore, there is a need for the Ministry of Education, Sport and Culture to conduct in‐service programmes for teachers who are not familiar with local and international laws concerning the protection of children against child abuse within the school. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.