bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adsorption Thermodynamics of Carbaryl onto Four Texturally Different Indian Soils
Authors: Singh R.P. , Singh Sujata , Srivastava Garima
Published: September 2011

The adsorption thermodynamics of carbaryl onto four divergent textured Indian soils from methanol/water mixtures (fs = 0.1) have been investigated at 25 °C and 50 °C via adsorption isotherms, the Freundlich equation, distribution coefficient measurements and thermodynamic parameters. The measured equilibrium adsorption isotherms were L-shaped for all four soils at both temperatures. The adsorption of carbaryl onto all four soils increased with increasing temperature. The highest adsorption was observed on F.R.I. silt loam (FSL) followed by Alampur silt loam (ASL), Kalai loam (KL) and Bhoran sandy loam (BSL) soils at both temperatures, as anticipated from the values of the Freundlich constant, KF, and the distribution coefficient, KD. The affinity of carbaryl towards the organic carbon, organic matter and clay content of the soils was evaluated from calculations of the values of KOC and KOM. The predicted values of log KOM were also evaluated by using the aqueous solubility, the 1-octanol/water partition coefficient (KOW), the adsorbability index (AI) and the first-order molecular connectivity index (1χ) of carbaryl. Use of the AI and 1χ indices of carbaryl gave predicted log KOM values close to those observed experimentally. The thermodynamic equilibrium constant (K0), the standard free energy (ΔG0), the standard enthalpy change (ΔH0) and the standard entropy change (ΔS0) were all calculated in order to predict the nature of the adsorption process.
Adsorption of Alizarin Red S onto Nano-Sized Silica Modified with γ-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane
Authors: Li Deliang , Liu Qing , Ma Shuanglong , Chang Zhixian , Zhang Ling
Published: September 2011

The adsorption of Alizarin Red S (ARS) dye onto nano-sized silica modified with γ-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (AMNS) was studied. The effects of the initial pH and concentration of the ARS solution, the AMNS dosage, the contact time and temperature on the removal and adsorption capacities have been investigated. The experimental isotherm data were analyzed using the Langmuir and Freundlich equations. The adsorption of ARS onto AMNS followed the Langmuir model, the maximum adsorption capacity being estimated as 200 mg/g. The application of three kinetic models, viz. pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order and intra-particle diffusion, to the experimental kinetic data was discussed. It was shown that the sorption processes were better fitted by the pseudo-second-order equation. From thermodynamic studies, the values of the Gibbs' free energy (ΔG0), standard enthalpy change (ΔH0) and standard entropy change (ΔS0) were calculated as −3.78 kJ/mol, −90.05 kJ/mol and −289.34 J/(mol K), respectively, thereby indicating that the adsorption process was spontaneous and exothermic.
Effects of Infill Wall Ratio on the Period of Reinforced Concrete Framed Buildings
Authors: Koçak Ali , Yιldιrιm M. Kasιm
Published: September 2011

Realistic estimates of the earthquake induced natural period of reinforced concrete buildings lead to enhanced reliability in design. Several national building codes and researchers have suggested various empirical formulas and approximations to predict the fundamental natural period of buildings with or without infill walls. In this paper, the effect of infill walls on the natural vibration period of framed reinforced concrete buildings is investigated. Reinforced concrete framed buildings of various storey heights and different infill wall ratios are modeled to examine the effect of the infill walls on the general behavior of the structures. Linear solutions for the structures are performed and their basic vibration periods are determined. As a result of there analyses, a new relationship for the changes in the building periods according to the infill wall ratio is developed for reinforced concrete framed buildings. The predictions of the proposed relation and other correlations found in the codes of various countries are compared.
An Integrated Model for the Fire Safety Analysis of Large Space Buildings
Authors: Shi Jianyong , Shi Wenzhong , Ren Aizhu
Published: September 2011

It is now widely recognized that performance-based design provides great advantages over prescriptive codes in that designers are allowed to use fire engineering methods to assess the fire safety of buildings. However, traditionally, performance-based fire safety design is still widely performed separately in specified individual study domains, such as fire engineering and structural engineering etc‥ Although the effects of a real fire have been considered in some structural fire resistant designs and in evacuation simulations, as well as in the mechanical analysis of load-bearing structures, the overall integrated assessment of a whole spatial structure performance is seldom performed. Based on middle-layer structure and component structure technology, this paper presents a new multi-dimensional integrated model and methodology for structural fire safety analysis. The effects of a real fire on structures and evacuation can be simulated through a close coupling of fire dynamics, structural analysis, and evacuation simulation. Based on the model, an integrated system FireSAS, was developed. One gymnasium, a competition venue of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, was selected as a study case. The results show that the mechanical responses and behaviours of large space steel structures have complex integrity characteristics as a whole under real fire conditions, and do not suffer merely a local effect. The case demonstrates that the FireSAS system is a useful engineering tool for cost-saving and safe structure design.
Dynamic Responses of Core-Tubes with Semi-Flexible Suspension Systems Linked by Viscoelastic Dampers under Earthquake Excitation
Authors: Wang Chunlin , Lü Zhitao , Tu Yongming
Published: September 2011

A new configuration of Core-tubes with Semi-Flexible Suspension Systems (CSFSS) is presented in this paper. This structure is composed of the primary core-tube, suspended segments regarded as suspension systems, viscoelastic dampers and flexible layers. The configuration, simplified model and the formulation of the multi-degrees of freedom equations of motion for this structure are given. The El Centro 1940 and Kobe 1995 earthquake time histories were employed for dynamic analysis of the system in the time domain. Random seismic response is determined by the complex mode superposition method. Based on the derived formulas, a computer program has been developed and parametric studies, such as the locations of the flexible suspended segment, the damping coefficient and stiffness of viscoelastic dampers, were performed to evaluate the vibration-absorption effectiveness of the primary core-tube, and to identify optimal parameters for the damping devices. Results show that this configuration can reduce seismic responses in the central core-tube and has a larger inter-storey drift in its flexible layers but less inter-storey drift in its suspended segments. Furthermore, there is an optimal damper damping coefficient that leads to a minimum response of the primary core-tube, and the flexible suspended segment located at the top can effectively reduce the earthquake-induced responses of the core-tube.
Spectral Element Model Updating for Damage Identification Using Clonal Selection Algorithm
Authors: Wang Ying , Zhu Xinqun , Hao Hong , Ou Jinping
Published: September 2011

A spectral element model updating procedure is presented to identify damage in a structure using Guided wave propagation results. Two damage spectral elements (DSE1 and DSE2) are developed to model the local (cracks in reinforcement bar) and global (debonding between reinforcement bar and concrete) damage in one-dimensional homogeneous and composite waveguide, respectively. Transfer matrix method is adopted to assemble the stiffness matrix of multiple spectral elements. In order to solve the inverse problem, clonal selection algorithm is used for the optimization calculations. Two displacement-based functions and two frequency-based functions are used as objective functions in this study. Numerical simulations of wave propagation in a bare steel bar and in a reinforcement bar without and with various assumed damage scenarios are carried out. Numerically simulated data are then used to identify local and global damage of the steel rebar and the concrete-steel interface using the proposed method. Results show that local damage is easy to be identified by using any considered objective function with the proposed method while only using the wavelet energy-based objective function gives reliable identification of global damage. The method is then extended to identify multiple damages in a structure. To further verify the proposed method, experiments of wave propagation in a rectangular steel bar before and after damage are conducted. The proposed method is used to update the structural model for damage identification. The results demonstrate the capability of the proposed method in identifying cracks in steel bars based on measured wave propagation data.
Experimental Study and Numerical Simulation of Partially Prefabricated Laminated Composite RC Walls
Authors: Zhang H. M. , Lu X. L. , Duan Y. F. , Li J. B.
Published: September 2011

This paper presents the low-cyclic reversed tests and numerical simulation on partially prefabricated laminated composite reinforced concrete (RC) walls. The specimens include 4 typical composite walls without openings, 4 with openings, and 1 common cast-in-place RC wall. The structural behaviours including failure pattern, lateral load-top drift relationship and the in-plane horizontal load carrying capacity of the composite RC walls were compared with the common cast-in-place RC walls through the experiments. Then the finite element software ABAQUS was employed to simulate the experiment scenarios. The simulation results are consistent with the experimental results. After that, further simulation was conducted on the composite walls and the common cast-in-place wall under different axial forces. Experimental and numerical study indicates that there is no obvious difference in horizontal load carrying capacity and failure pattern between the composite walls and the common cast-in-place walls under the test axial ratios, but the composite walls are more vulnerable to failure under high axial force compared with the cast-in-place wall. Though they have many advantages in rapid construction, especially in reconstruction of the earthquake-hit areas, the laminated composite walls are not suggested to apply under high axial ratio conditions.
Shear Layer Time-Delay Correction Using a Non-Intrusive Acoustic Point Source
Authors: Bahr Chris , Zawodny Nikolas S. , Yardibi Tarik , Liu Fei , Wetzel Drew , Bertolucci Brandon , Cattafesta Louis
Published: September 2011

Microphone array processing algorithms often assume straight-line source-to-observer wave propagation. However, when the microphone array is placed outside an open-jet test section, the presence of the shear layer refracts the acoustic waves and causes the wave propagation times to vary from a free-space model. With a known source location in space, the propagation time delay can be determined using Amiet's theoretical method. In this study, the effects of shear layer refraction are examined using a pulsed laser system to generate a plasma point source in space and time for several different test section flow speeds and configurations. An array of microphones is used to measure the pulse signal, allowing for the use of qualitative beamforming and quantitative timing analysis. Results indicate that Amiet's method properly accounts for planar shear layer refraction time delays within experimental uncertainty. This is true both when the source is in the inviscid core of the open-jet test section, as well as when the source is located in different model wakes of varying complexity. However, the method breaks down where the thin layer assumption fails, such as in the region where the tunnel test section's open jet interacts with the facility jet collector.
High-Fidelity Numerical Simulation of a Chevron Nozzle Jet Flow
Authors: Uzun Ali , Bin Jonghoon , Hussaini M. Yousuff
Published: September 2011

We report results from the simulation of a moderate Reynolds number cold jet flow exhausting from a chevron nozzle with six symmetric chevrons that have an approximately 18-degree penetration angle. The flow inside the nozzle geometry and the free jet flow outside are computed simultaneously by a high-order accurate, multi-block, large eddy simulation code with overset grid capability. The simulation is performed on 400 million grid points using 2048 processor cores in parallel. The main emphasis of the simulation is to compute the jet flow in maximum detail possible and accurately capture the physical processes that lead to noise generation. It is especially critical to capture the enhanced shear layer mixing due to chevrons that takes place within the first few diameters downstream of the nozzle exit. Our calculations resolve the jet flow field at an unprecedented level of detail. Despite some issues such as an order of magnitude lower simulation Reynolds number (relative to experimental value) and unknown turbulence intensity levels within the experimental nozzle, it is shown that both the near-field jet turbulence and far-field noise predictions are in good agreement with the experimental measurements. Because of the enormous number of grid points required to resolve the near-nozzle region, the computational domain size is constrained to ten nozzle exit diameters downstream of nozzle exit by the limited computational resources. As a result, not all of the low frequency generating noise sources are resolved in the calculation, resulting in some errors in the low frequency range of the predicted noise spectrum. Nevertheless, it is shown that the high frequency noise generation in the near-nozzle region is predicted quite well.
Measurements and Modeling of the Self Noise of a Low-Speed Ducted Rotor
Authors: Stephens David B. , Morris Scott. C.
Published: September 2011

The self noise generated by a low-speed, isolated, ducted rotor was investigated experimentally. The apparatus provided inflow conditions to the rotor that were circumferentially uniform and steady, such that the noise generated by the rotor was primarily a result of unsteady surface pressures convecting past the blade trailing-edges. The volume flow rate through the rotor was manipulated in order to vary the blade-relative incidence angle, or “blade loading.” The rotor RPM was also varied in order to study the speed scaling of the radiated sound. The resulting spectra were found to exhibit a wide range of features including blade-rate tones, broadband sound, and stall noise. The broadband sound was predicted using a model based on wall pressures. The wall pressures, in turn, were measured using a microphone mounted to an airfoil, and were also modeled using an empirical spectrum for boundary layers. Both methods of predicting wall pressures were found to result in reasonable broadband noise estimates.
Evolution from ‘Tabs’ to ‘Chevron Technology’ - A Review
Authors: Zaman K.B.M.Q. , Bridges J.E. , Huff D.L.
Published: September 2011

‘Chevrons’, a sawtooth pattern on the trailing edge of exhaust nozzles, are being implemented on modern jet engines. The technology reduces jet noise for ‘separate-flow’ nozzles used on newer jet aircraft engines. The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of this technology, starting with studies of ‘tabs' in the 1980's and 1990's. The tabs, essentially chevrons with more aggressive penetration, were studied in those early years with a focus on mixing enhancement in jets. Observations from experimentalists in connection with mixing enhancement and plume signature reduction suggested that there might also be a noise benefit. In the mid-nineties, these devices, with mild penetration to minimize thrust loss, were first seriously explored for aircraft engine noise reduction purposes. Prompted by a strong need for jet noise reduction, the study became a joint NASA/industry effort that ultimately matured the chevron technology to production by mid-2000's. The process is an example of how fundamental studies over decades eventually migrate to application but often take a concerted effort.
Generating a Scalar Logic: Producing the “it's a SMALL world” Exhibition
Authors: Thomsen Mette Ramsgard , Tamke Martin , Nielsen Jacob Riiber
Published: September 2011

This paper presents the design project “it's a SMALL world”, an exhibition design developed for the Danish Design Centre in 2009. The project investigates the making of a generative design environment by which multiple design parameters as from program, site or the subsequent digital fabrication and assembly process can be negotiated. In this paper we discuss methods for understanding the emergent interrelationships between encoded parameters, how to manage these and their impact on design. The implementation of the design necessitated a novel design method that allowed to blend the qualities of a generative design approach, that can adapt through recursion gradually to local requirements, with explicit definitions. The project showcases with its new developed manufacturing system for nonstandard element how customized digital design and production tools allow for a novel nearness to material and new ways of production and collaboration of architects, engineers and the crafts.
Architectural DNA: A Genetic Exploration of Complex Structures
Authors: van Embden Andres Maria Vera , Turrin Michela , von Buelow Peter
Published: September 2011

The approach demonstrated in this paper uses Evolutionary Computation (EC) to enhance and modify structural form based on biological micro structures. The forms are modified to conform to new boundary conditions associated with architectural structures. The process is based on a Genetic Algorithm (GA) which visually exposes for the designer a range of good performing solutions within the design space. The application of the GA is combined with parametric software, in this case Generative Components (GC). The program described here as ParaGen (Parametric Genetic Algorithm), uses a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to determine the structural performance of the forms. This allows the designer to manipulate and optimize a parametrically defined model based on predefined criteria and parameters. The opportunities and limitations of this design process are explored and evaluated based on an experimental case study using topologies based on radiolarian skeletons. The design procedure described includes user interaction in the exploration of solutions that perform well both for the explicitly defined programmatic criteria (structural) as well as for the implicit criteria provided by the designer (visual aesthetic).
Optimization and Parametric Modelling to Support Conceptual Structural Design
Authors: Martini Kirk
Published: September 2011

The paper describes software combining parametric geometric modeling with a version of the harmony search method, modified to support multimodal structural optimization. Researchers have recognized the potential of population-based optimization methods, such as genetic algorithms, to support multimodal optimization: that is, generating a diverse range of good alternative solutions, rather than a single best solution. Among these methods is the harmony search method, which has been demonstrated to be efficient in many unimodal structural optimization problems. The paper describes a new version of the harmony search method, implemented as an assembly within Bentley's Generative Components, enabling high-level control of geometry. The new method is demonstrated on an bridge supported by two inclined parabolic arches, a structure where GC controls a complex geometry with a single variable. Comparative studies of the example find that the new method is more effective than conventional harmony search in consistently finding multiple good solutions.
Rugby Union Contact Skills Alter Evasive Agility Performance during Attacking Ball Carries
Authors: Wheeler Keane W. , Sayers Mark G.L.
Published: September 2011

Rugby union is a collision sport where evasive agility running patterns and the tackle contest determine the effectiveness of attacking ball carries. This study used three-dimensional kinematic analysis to examine the running technique of eight highly trained rugby union players during three rugby based reactive (in response to a defender positioned at the side-step) agility conditions (non-contact, contact and fend). The fend condition involved pushing a defender away with the upper body during the side-step and both fend and contact conditions required impact with an additional defender at the straighten-step, simulating a rugby tackle. Results demonstrated that a reduction in the relative height of the centre of mass relative to standing height (%CM) occurred at the straighten-step during the contact condition (47.2 ±1.9 %CM) compared to the non-contact condition (49.1 ±1.8 %CM, p <.001). The fend condition was then shown to increase %CM at the straighten-step (48.4 ±2.7 %CM) when compared to the contact condition (47.2 ±1.9 %CM, p = .017). However this difference was not observed at tackle impact during the straighten-step, with similar %CM values for fend (45.1 ±3.4 %CM) and contact conditions (44.6 ±2.6 %CM, p = .205). Further analysis showed that the number of steps displayed between the side-step and straighten-step ( transition phase) altered the %CM, with one step during the transition phase increasing %CM (49.3 ±1.5 %CM) compared to two transition phase steps (46.9 ±1.6 %CM, p < .001) and no transition phase steps (46.5 ±1.6 %CM, p < .001). The changes to running technique during agility conditions involving tackle situations highlight the need for running programs in rugby union to meet the specific requirements of match-play activities.
The Science of Speed: Determinants of Performance in the 100 m Sprint
Authors: Majumdar Aditi S. , Robergs Robert A.
Published: September 2011

Performance in the 100 m sprint is influenced by a multitude of factors including starting strategy, stride length, stride frequency, physiological demands, biomechanics, neural influences, muscle composition, anthropometrics, and track and environmental conditions. The sprint start, the accelerative phase of the race, depends greatly on muscular power. Three considerations of the sprint start are reaction time (time to initiate response to the sound of the starting gun), movement time (onset of response until end of movement) and response time. Maximal velocity running is a result of stride length and stride frequency. While stride length can be greatly limited by an individual's size and joint flexibility, stride frequency can be affected by muscle composition, neuromuscular development, and training. Although 100 m sprint world record times have progressed drastically, there is limited evidence for how technology has contributed to such improvement. As such, human physiology and physique combine to be the most influential determinants of improved sprint performance.
Coaches' Self-Awareness of Timing, Nature and Intent of Verbal Instructions to Athletes
Authors: Millar Sarah-Kate , Oldham Anthony R.H. , Donovan Mick
Published: September 2011

Coach development literature identifies the need for coaches to be self-aware regarding their impact on athletes. Here, four English rowing coaches were observed and their ability to accurately identify the type, nature and timing of verbal instructions used while coaching was examined. For one training session, every verbal instruction delivered by the coaches was coded, using an adapted version of the Feedback Analysis Profile (FAP). At the end of the session, coaches completed an in-depth questionnaire about their perceived verbal behaviour. Results showed that the coaches were inaccurate when recalling what was said to athletes. Coaches were observed giving predominantly concurrent (while athletes were rowing) and prescriptive (what to do) instructions. Results also showed minimal use of evaluative (was it any good?) or affective (how did it feel?) feedback. Coaches' perceptions did not match recorded data, highlighting the need to develop methods which increase coach self-awareness.
Above Real Time Training for Team Invasion Sport Skills
Authors: Lorains Megan , MacMahon Clare , Ball Kevin , Mahoney Josh
Published: September 2011

Decision-making is identified as a key element of elite sporting success. There are many challenges, however, in the design and implementation of a decision-training tool. These include difficulty in recreating a scenario in which the simulation allows the participant to feel like they are performing in the ‘real game’, and creating a training tool that can complement an existing physical training regime. The main aim of this paper is to present arguments for the use of above-real-time training, as popularly used in military and pilot training, as a viable simulation training method in the sporting arena. Above-real-time simulations are simulations that are played above normal speed. The potential benefits of using traditional video simulations are discussed, especially with respect to the promotion of key characteristics of elite performance, such as automaticity. Furthermore, the possible practical applications of using above-real-time video simulations will be explored in relation to fast-paced invasion sports.
Implicit Practice for Technique Adaptation in Expert Performers
Authors: Rendell Megan A. , Farrow Damian , Masters Rich , Plummer Norma
Published: September 2011

Coaches traditionally rely on explicit approaches (e.g., instruction, video feedback) to adapt technique in skilled athletes. While such methods can generate relatively rapid learning outcomes, the resultant technical execution is susceptible to breakdown under competition pressure. An alternative approach is to use ‘implicit motor learning’ in which adaptations occur without conscious knowledge of the underlying rules and the newly learned skill is less likely to breakdown under pressure. However, research has not demonstrated whether implicit motor learning can be used to adapt technique in athletes whose skills are already expert. Two expert netball players undertook a 6-week training intervention in which they practiced shooting to an adapted ring (hypothesised to cause an advantageous increase in the trajectory of shots) while responding to a concurrent secondary task (high and low pitched tones). Pre- and post-testing of shooting performance revealed a change in the maximum ball height following the intervention. The players showed no increase in generic or episodic knowledge, remained robust under secondary task load, and were unable to differentiate between pre- and post-test video footage of their shots. These measures indicate that players were unaware of the knowledge underlying adaptations of their technique, but equally highlight the need for further empirical investigation of implicit practice in expert performers.
Challenges and Solutions When Applying Implicit Motor Learning Theory in a High Performance Sport Environment: Examples from Rugby League
Authors: Gabbett Tim , Masters Rich
Published: September 2011

Skills that are learnt implicitly (i.e., without the accumulation of task-related rules and knowledge) have been shown to result in performance that displays stability in conditions of psychological stress, fatigue, multi-tasking, and over prolonged periods of time. Despite the wealth of evidence supporting the use of implicit motor learning strategies, the majority of this evidence has been generated from studies of novice performers rather than of experts. The aim of this paper is to describe some of the challenges faced by high-performance coaches and athletes who may wish to use implicit motor learning and to frame potential solutions with respect to the elite Australian National Rugby League competition. Practical training activities and techniques (e.g., errorless learning, random practice, cues, dual-tasking, and analogies), designed to facilitate the development of implicit skills that transfer robustly to high-performance competition environments, are presented.
Nonlinear Analysis of Blast Performance of Partially Prestressed RC Beams
Authors: Chen Li , Fang Qin , Liu Jing-Chun , Zhang Ya-Dong , Xiang Heng-Bo
Published: September 2011

With the development of partially prestressing technique, the application of prestressed concrete was extended to protective structures. Despite those known advantages of higher crack resistance, higher solidity and lighter weight, the absence of systematic, theoretical investigations, as well as simple analytical methods in prestressed structures demonstrate a drawback in design and assessment of blast-resistant structures. An approach based on the layered section method was presented in this paper to predict the static resistance-deflection curves of partially prestressed concrete beam-slab structures, and it was validated by test data. Based on the layered section method for static analysis, a new analytical method was proposed to investigate the dynamic responses of the partially prestressed concrete beams subjected to blast loads. The new method incorporated an elasto/viscoplastic rate-sensitive model with the proposed analytical approach for static analysis into an equivalent single degree of freedom (SDOF) system. The analytical results agreed well with the test data. And some main affecting factors on the dynamic responses of the structures were discussed. It is demonstrated that the dynamic resistance of partially prestressed concrete structures is improved with the increasing of initial prestressing force and partially prestressing ratio (PPR).
Damage Prediction for RC Slabs under Near-Field Blasts Using Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed , Salim Hani , Flood Ian
Published: September 2011

Spalling and cratering are common modes of failure in concrete structures subjected to blast load detonations. There are limited data and models available on the prediction of the spalling/cratering of reinforced concrete members under blast loads. Currently engineers rely on empirical curves to assess the level of damage represented by spalling and/or breach experienced by are inforced concrete (RC) slab under near-field detonations. In this paper a novel Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model capable of predicting the damage (spalling/cratering) size is developed and evaluated. The ANN model is trained and tested using data sets produced using the numerical hydrocode LS-DYNA. The numerical model, which was verified using field experiments, is reliable for detecting the highly dynamic response of the RCslab under severe blast loading. The ANN model is capable of predicting the damage size under different loading parameters. The predicted damage size showed good agreement with available extensive design charts used by the engineering community.
Contingency Fit, Institutional Fit, and Firm Performance: A Metafit Approach to Organization–Environment Relationships
Authors: Volberda Henk W. , van der Weerdt Niels , Verwaal Ernst , Stienstra Marten , Verdu Antonio J.
Published: September 2011

In this paper, we attempt to reconcile contingency and institutional fit approaches concerning the organization–environment relationship. Whereas prior scholarly research has examined both theories and compared their impacts on organizational fit and performance, we lay the groundwork for a metafit approach by investigating how contingency and institutional fit interact to influence firm performance. We test our theoretical framework using a data set of 3,259 respondents from 1,904 companies, examining task environmental demands and institutional demands on organizational design across a broad range of industries and firm size classes. Our results show that contingency and institutional fit provide complementary and interdependent explanations of firm performance. Importantly, our findings indicate that for firms under conditions of “quasi fit” rather than perfect contingency fit or optimal institutional fit, improvements in contingency and/or institutional fit will result in better performance. However, firms with high contingency fit are less vulnerable to deviation from institutional fit in the formation of firm performance, whereas firms with perfect institutional fit will slightly decrease their performance when they strive to achieve contingency fit.
Engendering Inequity? How Social Accounts Create vs. Merely Explain Unfavorable Pay Outcomes for Women
Authors: Belliveau Maura A.
Published: September 2011

Two studies examined how managers' pay decisions for male and female employees are affected by the opportunity to provide social accounts and how managers think about the value of accounts for men versus women. I theorized that managers would treat social accounts as substitutes for pay for women but not for men, paradoxically leading managers who could behave more procedurally fairly to create gender-based distributive injustice. Study 1 confirms this hypothesis. Practicing managers who learned before making pay decisions that they could provide a social account—here, an explanation of circumstances justifying low raises—paid women less than men and less than women for whom they could not provide this account. Also as hypothesized, when an account was available, experienced managers paid women less than did inexperienced managers. In addition to pay decisions, participants' explicit beliefs about the value of accounts as substitutes for pay (Study 1) and in motivating male and female employees (Study 2) were examined. When participants expected the account to make the employee feel that he or she had been treated with a high level of procedural fairness (Study 1), or the language of the account explicitly acknowledged and apologized for unfair treatment (Study 2), participants assumed that the account would be significantly more valuable for women than for men. This difference was greater for experienced participants than inexperienced ones. I discuss the implications of this “substitutability thesis” and these results for research on justice and gender as well as for achieving gender equity in the workplace.
Experimental Investigation of Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of New Steels for Large Blooms
Authors: Ghidini A. , Gerosa R. , Silva G. , Rivolta B. , Pinasco M. R. , Ienco M. G. , Pastore Elisa , Firrao D.
Published: September 2011

In the automotive world, more and more components are produced by polymer injections using steel moulds reaching very large sizes, up to 1 m × 1 m sections or even more. These steels should have good thermal conductivity, good weldability, high machinability (especially for deep drilling), and good disposition to polishing and photoengraving. Moreover, high toughness, hardness, wear, and fatigue resistance across the whole thickness of the mould are strongly required. For satisfying these demands, chemical composition and heat treatment cycles of the steel shall be properly designed and optimized. In this paper two mould steels, which were recently developed, were experimentally investigated. Samples were machined from the surface and the core of each bloom and a full mechanical and microstructural analysis was carried out. The tensile properties at room temperature and at high temperature were investigated, together with the fracture toughness. All the obtained results were compared with the traditional and reference ISO 1.2738 mould steel. Moreover, dilatometric tests were performed to investigate the specific microstructural transformations during continuous cooling and isothermal treatments. The obtained results show good mechanical strengths for the whole thickness of the blooms associated with adequate toughness parameters. Finally, results were related to microstructural.
Mechanical Properties of ASTM A283 Carbon Steel Subjected to the Sulphidation Process
Authors: Alexandre da Silva Cléber , Aparecido Moreto Jéferson , Villarino de Castro Danilo Borges , de Araújo Ponte Haroldo
Published: September 2011

This work presents a survey of the mechanical properties (hardness and modulus of elasticity), tribology (friction coefficient and wear rate), and metallography analysis of the ASTM A283 carbon steel subjected to the sulphidation process. The samples were submitted to the sulphidation process at an atmosphere with 0.2 % H2S (hydrogen sulphide) and 98.8 % H2 (hydrogen gas) for different time (5,10, 20, 60, and 120 min)at 300°C. After exposure to sulphidation environment the growth kinetics was analyzed. The results obtained with the sulphidation process indicate that the ASTM A283 carbon steel follows a parabolic law with a equilibrium constant in terms of pressure Kp = 1.47· × 10−12 g2 cm−4 s−1 for the material analyzed. The experimental results for the hardness and surface modulus of the samples show an increase in the values for the sulphide sample for 120 min.
Characteristics of Base Fluid in Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants
Authors: Kusak Brian , Wright Greg , Krol Ron , Bailey Matt
Published: September 2011

The main component in environmentally acceptable lubricants and grease is the base fluid. Typically it comprises greater than 70% of grease and 90% of a lubricant. Many biodegradable fluids have specific characteristics, which make formulating finished products difficult. Through a stepwise approach these characteristics will be discussed. The fluids for testing will comprise natural and synthetic esters and some petroleum based synthetics. The testing will find the extremes of performance at high and low temperatures and the effects of common additives to improve performance. Testing will include pour point, elastomer compatibility, oxidation and thermal stability. Based on the testing a blended fluid will be made to offset the drawbacks of the individual fluids and the performance discussed. This blend will serve as the base fluid to formulate an environmentally acceptable lubricating grease.
Experiences with ASTM D02 Practices D4378 and D6224 for Turbine Oils and Auxiliary Power Plant Equipment Condition Monitoring Programs
Authors: Wardlow Andrea , Ameye Jo
Published: September 2011

Condition monitoring practices ASTM D4378 [2011, “Section Five, Petroleum Products, Lubricants, and Fossil Fuels,” Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol. 05.02, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA] and ASTM D6224 [2009, “Standard Practice for In-Service Monitoring of Lubricating Oil for Auxiliary Power Plant Equipment,” Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol. 05.02, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA] are important activities at the SC C00 as they are the benchmark today in the power generation industry for condition monitoring and maintenance practices. With the need for increased equipment and plant efficiency in the modern economy, these methods contribute to an improved reliability and better utilization of modern turbine lubricants. In conjunction with the latest ASTM D4303 [Annual Book of ASTM Standards, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA] (the new turbine oil specification) these methods help the end-users to better understand the condition of their in-service lubricants and by turning them into immediate maintenance actions. This paper will include a few case studies, presenting the different experiences with the integration of these in-service practices, and how they are evolving with the original equipment manufacturers’ equipment developments and turbine lube oil developments.
Electrical Conductance Methods for Locating Leaks in Roofing and Waterproof Membranes
Authors: Vokey David , Townsend Duncan
Published: September 2011

Undetected roof leaks and the subsequent deterioration are considered one of the primary causes of premature roof failure. This paper shows the need for a systematic procedure to test, verify, and monitor the integrity of roofing and waterproof membranes using low voltage electrical conductance measurement methods to locate leaks in membranes. The methods described are particularly useful for roof designs that incorporate a membrane under a vegetative, wear-course, or topping slab where direct inspection of the membrane is difficult or impossible.
Phenotypic stability of hybrids of Gália melon in Rio Grande do Norte state, Brazil
Authors: Nunes Glauber H.S. , Santos Júnior Haroldo , Grangeiro Leilson C. , Bezerra Neto Francisco , Dias Carlos T.S. , Dantas Mara S.M.
Published: September 2011

The objectives of this study were to determine the importance of simple and complex components of the interaction genotype × environment and to evaluate the adaptability and stability of Gália melon hybrids. Nine hybrids were tested in twelve environments of Rio Grande Norte State from 2000 to 2001. The experiments were carried out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The statistical methods of Toler and Burrows, Wricke and AMMI (Additive Main effect and Multiplicative Interaction) were used to study the adaptability and stability. The complex component is responsible for most of the genotype × environment interaction for the yield and content of solids soluble of fruits. The environments associated with Mossoró and Assu municipalities are the most suitable to evaluate melon hybrids in the state. The hybrid DRG 1537 was the most likely to be grown in the Agro-industrial Complex Mossoró-Assu due to its stability, high productivity and high content of soluble solids.
Growth of immature Chironomus calligraphus (Diptera, Chironomidae) in laboratory conditions
Authors: Canteiro Rita de Cássia S.A. , Albertoni Edélti F.
Published: September 2011

Chironomidae larvae are important macroinvertebrates in limnic environments, but little knowledge exists about their biometrics development characteristics. This study aims to describe the immature Chironomus calligraphus Goeldi, 1905 under laboratory conditions by the accomplishment of thirteen egg masses from eggs eclosion to adults emergency, at controlled room temperature (25ºC) and photoperiod (12-12h). Larvae were feed ad libitum with "Alcon Basic - MEP 200 Complex" fish food and commercial dehydrated Spirulina. The postures had a mean length of 9 ± 1 mm (n = 13) and 348 ± 66 eggs. The brownish colored eggs with elliptical shape had length of 160.3 ± 17.7 µm (n = 130), being arranged as an organized string in a pseudo spiral form. The time duration from the first to the four instars were three, four, four and eight days, and the average length of a cephalic capsule to each one of the instars (66.3 ± 12.3 µm, 102.9 ± 22.1 µm, 159 ± 24.6 µm, 249.2 ± 29.7 µm, n = 456) were significantly different (ANOVA, p < 0.001). The Dyar’s Rule showed a constant growth rate, r = 1.5. Our results demonstrated that C. calligraphus is a species with short life cycle, low mortality rate, food adaptability, fast larval growth and easily maintained at laboratory, factors that allowed the use of this native species as a tool for ecotoxicological tests.
Contexto social e imaginário organizacional moderno
Authors: Freitas Maria Ester de
Published: September 2011

Este artigo analisa algumas das mudanças que vêm ocorrendo no ambiente socioorganizacional e as respostas que as grandes empresas têm dado a elas, especialmente desenvolvendo um imaginário próprio que busca a sua legitimação como ator social central.
Globalização e crise do estado nacional
Authors: Forjaz Maria Cecília Spina
Published: September 2011

A pesquisa analisa a crise do Estado Nacional no contexto da ordem mundial pós-Guerra Fria, enfatizando o fortalecimento de instâncias de poder supranacionais e infranacionais que estão solapando a autonomia dos Estados. Tais transformações na esfera política estão vinculadas ao processo geral de globalização.
Understanding local governance: an international perspective
Authors: Wilson Robert H.
Published: September 2011

Enormous change and innovation in governmental practices are occurring throughout the world. Local governance, in particular, has become a concern in many countries. Processes such as redemocratization and decentralization and imperatives of international lending agencies have focused attention on developing good governance practices. Improvement in local government remains a high priority in most countries, but unless the relationship between citizens and government is more fully developed the actions of local government will not necessarily lead to improvement in the conditions of people's lives. This paper will explore the concept of governance and propose an analytical framework for the study of local governance in an international context. The article concludes with recommendations on strategies to improve governance systems and government performance.
Qualidade na indústria agroalimentar: situação atual e perspectivas
Authors: Toledo José Carlos de , Batalha Mário Otávio , Amaral Daniel Capaldo
Published: September 2011

O objetivo principal do trabalho é identificar e discutir o estado atual da gestão da qualidade em empresas participantes de seis cadeias agroalimentares: bebidas (cerveja e refrigerante), biscoitos, carne bovina, chocolate, conservas de tomate e derivados do leite. Por tratar-se de estudo exploratório, foi adotado o método de pesquisa qualitativa de multicasos, envolvendo um total de 34 empresas. De modo geral, observou-se que, embora as empresas se encontrasse em diferentes estágios de gestão da qualidade, prevaleceram os enfoques em inspeção da qualidade e controle do processo, com ações de qualidade fortemente atreladas às exigências dos serviços governamentais de inspeção e de vigilância sanitária, com ênfase nos aspectos de sanidade do produto. Entretanto, existem indícios, ainda que localizados, de ações em direção a enfoques mais evoluídos, tais como sistemas de garantia da qualidade e gestão da qualidade total.
Apontamentos sobre aspectos juridicos do e-commerce
Authors: Forgioni Paula A.
Published: September 2011

O artigo trata de relevantes aspectos jurídicos do chamado e-commerce, dando ênfase para a análise jurisprudencial de temas análogos e o possível posicionamento dos Tribunais brasileiros perante os contratos eletrônicos e a Internet, levando em consideração o cenário mundial, onde se procura um equilíbrio entre a proteção do consumidor, de um lado, e a necessidade de segurança e celeridade no tráfico, de outro. Entre os pontos abordados, destacam-se o momento da celebração do contrato eletrônico e sua relevância para o e-commerce, a forma do contrato eletrônico e sua prova, o sistema de oferta/aceitação em face do e-commerce, a utilização de senhas e a assinatura eletrônica.
Estratégias de aeração de milho armazenado: temperatura e teor de água
Authors: Nascimento Vânia R. G. , Queiroz Marlene R. de
Published: September 2011

O objetivo deste trabalho consistiu em avaliar e comparar o desempenho de três diferentes estratégias de aeração de milho armazenado: aeração contínua, aeração noturna e aeração em condições de equilíbrio higroscópico entre os grãos e o ar ambiente. Utilizaram-se grãos de milho com dois níveis de teor de água; 11% e 17%. Realizou-se monitoramento contínuo da temperatura, e amostras de grãos foram retiradas durante os ensaios para análise do teor de água. Observou-se que todas as estratégias de aeração favoreceram a redução da temperatura nos grãos secos (11%) e umidificados (17%). A estratégia de aeração contínua foi a mais eficiente em grãos úmidos, uma vez que evitou aquecimento dos grãos durante o armazenamento. Nenhuma estratégia de aeração manteve a temperatura homogênea no interior dos grãos durante a armazenagem. Ela variou conforme as condições climáticas. O teor de água dos grãos sofreu variações durante os ensaios, com tendência de secagem ao final do processo.