bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inter‐Firm Linkages and Profitability in the Automobile Industry: The Implications for Supply Chain Management
Authors: Ramcharran Harri
Published: April 2006

The current studies on supply chain management are limited in their analysis of the linkages between firms in related industries. This study estimates the degree of linkages between automotive parts suppliers and automobile manufacturers. Significant linkages are demonstrated by the high correlation coefficients of the P/E ratio of auto parts suppliers and auto manufacturers and by the results of regression analysis. Demand uncertainty in the automobile manufacturing industry, resulting from business cycles and unexpected labor disputes, is one of the major risks facing auto parts suppliers. Risk assessment, utilizing information on linkages, is important for demand management and developing profit‐maximizing strategies.
The Use of Intermediate Sourcing Strategies
Authors: Heriot Kirk C. , Kulkarni Subodh P.
Published: April 2006

Much of the existing literature discusses vertical integration and competitive spot bidding as sourcing strategy choices, but often neglects intermediate sourcing strategies, such as taper integration and long‐term supplier relationships. This exploratory study examines the extent to which firms use intermediate sourcing strategies, as opposed to the polar strategies, and attempts to improve our understanding of the sourcing choices available to manufacturing firms. Results from a sample of 209 plant managers indicate that firms use taper integration and long‐term supplier relationships more frequently than vertical integration and competitive spot bidding. Further, the choice of a sourcing strategy was found to be dependent on the industry.
The Impact of Supplier Visions on Product Development
Authors: Nellore Rajesh
Published: April 2006

This article explores the impact of visions for suppliers in outsourcedproduct development, the creation of visions for suppliers, and finally, the interplay between visions for suppliers and core capabilities of originalequipment manufacturers (OEMs). Developing visions for suppliers can help OEMs to create clear expectations and thus better utilize the core capabilities of the buyer and supplier firms. Data for this research were collected in one automotive OEM and two of its first‐tier suppliers, all based in Europe. The results of the study suggest that the creation of visions for suppliers impacts the development process positively. Further, the presence of visions for suppliers affects the core capabilities of the OEMs.
Purchasing's Role in Environmental Management: Cross‐Functional Development of Grounded Theory
Authors: Carter Craig R. , Dresner Martin
Published: April 2006

Are government regulations a driver or barrier to environmental activities? Does greater functional involvement within a firm help to ensure the success of environmental projects? Do environmental projects improve or harm financial performance? This research finds that none of these questions can be answered with a simple “yes” or “no.” Instead, this article distinguishes between successful and unsuccessful environmental projects, through an examination of not only their consequences but also their drivers and barriers and the functional interplay that occurs during their implementation. The findings result from an inductive study leading to theory grounded in the data but related to extant findings, and are based on case studies that tap the perspectives of purchasing managers and the managers in multiple, additional functional areas with whom they interact when initiating environmental projects.
Managing Supplier Involvement in Process Improvement in Manufacturing
Authors: McGinnis Michael A. , Vallopra Rafeekh Mele
Published: April 2006

This research examines strategies for maximizing supplier contributions to process development/improvement in manufacturing organizations. One hundred and sixty‐nine senior purchasing managers who are employed by manufacturing firms responded to a mail questionnaire regarding purchasing and supplier involvement in process development/improvement. “Process” was defined as “any production/operations process that used materials and supplies, capital equipment, labor, and information to convert inputs into products/services.” One hundred and thirty‐five respondents indicated that suppliers are involved in process development/improvement in their organizations. Stepwise multiple regression was used to identify variables that affect supplier effectiveness when they are involved. The results indicate that supplier contributions to process development/improvement are facilitated when the firm processes are a source of competitive advantage, there is comprehensive involvement by purchasing, and decisions regarding supplier involvement are not overly structured. Implications of this research for supply chain practitioners, teachers, and researchers are discussed.
A Taxonomy of Supply Networks
Authors: Harland Christine M. , Lamming Richard C. , Zheng Jurong , Johnsen Thomas E.
Published: April 2006

There has been limited research into how different types of supply networks can be created and operated. This article develops a taxonomy of supply networks with a particular focus on managing network creation and operation. The taxonomy is based on a review of network literature from various academic perspectives and extensive empirical data across a variety of industry sectors including automotive, fast‐moving consumer goods, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and communications technologies. The main differentiating factors for classifying a matrix of four types of supply network are found to be the degree of supply network dynamics and the degree of focal company supply network influence. Network characteristics and different patterns ofnetworking activities are identified for each type of supply network.
The Purchase of Information Technology Products by Dutch SM Es: Problem Resolution
Authors: Rooks Gerrit , Snijders Chris
Published: April 2006

This research focuses on the purchase of information technology (IT) products by small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Netherlands. Based on nationwide representative survey data (a total of 1,252 IT transactions), the research considers the problems that Dutch SMEs are faced with and the way in which these problems are dealt with. On average, 28 percent of transaction are completed without problems. If problems are encountered, they mostly involve inadequate documentation (45 percent of all transactions). Frequently mentioned problems, such as incompatibility with other IT products and being over budget, occur much less frequently (about 25 percent of all transactions). Moreover, strong support was found for the existence of a specific sequence in dealing with ex‐post problems. Nearly all SMEs at least communicate the problem to the supplier; if that does not solve the issue, it is almost always followed by active deliberation with the supplier about a solution. If that does not help, about half of the SMEs impose some kind of sanction (most of the time delaying the payment). If that still does not settle the issue, virtually all SMEs give up on it. Third parties, such as arbitration committees or the courts, are rarely invoked.
Electronic Procurement in Supply Chain Management: An Information Economics‐Based Analysis of Electronic Markets
Authors: Essig Michael , Arnold Ulli
Published: April 2006

Electronic procurement is currently one of the most discussed topics in supply management. Without doubt, it will dramatically change the way purchasing is done in the near future. Telgen (1998) calls it a “revolution through electronic purchasing.” This article analyzes the possibilities of electronic marketplaces for buyers, primarily from a theoretical perspective. The article develops an analytical framework that is based on information economics theory, which may be the most important theory to analyz market problems in general. It is combined with a systematic approach for procurement transactions based on Williamson's (1985a) transaction theory. An e‐procurement matrix is developed that could help to systematize different e‐procurement instruments. Various data types available from electronic marketplaces are analyzed with a business model for electronic marketplaces. These business models show the real value added by e‐procurement.
The Impact of Purchasing and Supply Management Activities on Corporate Success
Authors: Ellram Lisa M. , Zsidisin George A. , Siferd Sue Perrott , Stanly Michael J.
Published: April 2006

Purchasing and supply management (PSM) has gained a great deal of attention in recent years as both a source of cost savings (Ellram 1996) and a source of competitive advantage (Fine 1998). This article attempts to link PSM best practices to corporate success. The article begins with an introduction and a brief survey of the literature. The research method is presented, followed by a discussion of the hypotheses tested. Next, the results of the research are presented and discussed. The article concludes with managerial and research implications.
What Determines Buyer‐Seller Relationship Quality? An Investigation from the Buyer's Perspective
Authors: Parsons Amy L.
Published: April 2006

In today's environment, businesses are increasingly dependent on the relationships they have with their suppliers and are demanding that they adhere to high standards. It is increasingly important that buyers have strong relationships with their suppliers to stay ahead of competition. The establishment, development, and maintenance of relationships between exchange partners is crucial to achieving success (Morgan and Hunt 1994). The goal of this research is to further investigate the nature of buyer‐seller relationships from the buyer's perspective and to address the question — what determines the quality of buyer‐seller relationships? Many factors may contribute to the quality of a buyer‐seller relationship. Quality may depend on the nature of the organizations involved, the individuals in the organizations, and the nature of the situation. This study considers two main sets of variables, interpersonal and aspects of the relationship. Interpersonal variables describe the characteristics of individual company representatives, while aspects of the relationship variables describe the situations buyers and sellers face. A unique aspect of this study is that it considers the role both of individuals and of the organizations they represent.
Designing Ordering and Inventory Management Methodologies for Purchased Parts
Authors: Looman Arnold , Ruffini Frans A.J. , de Boer Luitzen
Published: April 2006

This article presents a method for redesigning the ordering and inventory management methodologies for purchased parts in a manufacturing firm. The method takes the perspective of the purchasing and logistics manager, defines clusters of purchased items, and subsequently assigns each cluster to a suitable way of ordering and inventory management. An application of the method, resulting in an 11 percent overall supply costs reduction proposal, is presented. The application shows that the method is particularly suitable for a first, rough redesign of the existing — usually undifferentiated — way of ordering and managing inventory. In addition, the method may provide a clear format for collaboration among the various disciplines involved in the redesign process.
International Supply Management Systems — The Impact of Price vs. Non‐Price Driven Motives in the United States and Germany
Authors: Kaufmann Lutz , Carter Craig R.
Published: April 2006

International sourcing can represent a significant amount of an organization's costs, particularly for manufacturing concerns. Recent studies suggest that international supply management may be relatively more important to German companies than it currently is to their U.S. counterparts, and indicate that a cross‐national study may lead to important insights as to why this difference might exist. For example, cultural differences between the United States and Germany may lead to different management approaches (Hofstede 1984; Schwartz 1994). Practitioners can often learn valuable lessons by examining these differences and comparing the activities of managers in their country with those of another. Thus, the objective of this study is to compare the international supply management systems of U.S. organizations with those of their German counterparts, and examine the factors that drive and help to shape an organization's international supply management system.
The Supply Chain: The Weak Link for Some Preferred Suppliers?
Authors: Halley Alain , Nollet Jean
Published: April 2006

More than ever before, the supply chain presents a significant challenge to firms that must develop a logistics system to help enhance product flow throughout their distribution channels. Of the various types of suppliers, those described as preferred should normally be in the best position to respond to the strategic aspirations of large order‐givers. Given the growing importance ascribed to supply chain management and supplier characterization in the literature, this article proposes to examine the actual contribution of various types of suppliers to supply chain integration. Following an empirical study focusing on a large multinational firm and its regular first‐tier suppliers, a detailed statistical analysis was conducted. Cluster analysis revealed the extent of a suppliers' logistics contributions. Overall, the findings suggest three types of contributions, and show that the intensity of a supplier's contribution has little to do with its status as a preferred supplier, depending instead on the sophistication of a supplier's logistics system. The system is characterized by a significant increase in the role of logistics in a firm's structures, through formalization of an organization, reinforcement of communication and information quality and the use of leading‐edge technology. The authors conclude that it may be tempting for a large order‐giver simply to expect supply chain performance from its preferred suppliers, rather than adding this characteristic to the others used as a basis for granting preferred status to some of its suppliers.
Managerial Perceptions of Supply Risk
Authors: Zsidisin George A.
Published: April 2006

There has been a growing emphasis in business on outsourcing production activities and focusing on core competencies. The decision to outsource the production of goods and services, however, has inherent risk. The purposes of this article are to describe characteristics of inbound supply that affect managerial perceptions of supply risk and to create a classification of those supply risk sources. An analysis of case study data suggests that supply risk is perceived by the effect that purchased items and services have on corporate profitability, market factors, and supplier characteristics. By understanding the characteristics of supply risk, supply management professionals can implement strategies for better managing that risk.
Enhancing Purchasing's Strategic Reputation: Evidence and Recommendations for Future Research
Authors: Goebel Daniel J. , Marshall Greg W. , Locander William B.
Published: April 2006

Past research in the supply chain management literature has rightfully claimed that purchasing is a strategic function of the business. In contrast, other research has found that the level of involvement by members of the supply function in strategic activities is rather low. In particular, the perception of purchasing by members of one particular group within the firm, marketing, often appears to be similar to that of a clerical function performing low‐value‐adding activities. Thus, a dichotomy exists regarding what is often claimed (being a strategic function of the business) and the apparent reality (little participation in strategic corporate activities; conflict with members of other organizational functions). In this article, a model predicting purchasing's strategic reputation within the firm is proposed and tested. The results, which are obtained from a survey of purchasing executives, indicate a role forback‐and‐forth communications and a cooperative relational history to enhance purchasing's reputation within the firm. Implications are discussed for such reputation enhancement of purchasing as a strategic, value‐adding function and recommendations are made for future research.
The Impact of Interpersonal Satisfaction on Repurchase Decisions
Authors: Preis Michael W.
Published: April 2006

Having once made a purchase from a supplier, customer satisfaction has been found to drive buyers’decisions about the firms from which they will repurchase goods or services. Interpersonal satisfaction, the gratification that buyers receive from relationships with salespeople, is an important component of overall customer satisfaction. Even with the growing role of technology in procurement and supply chain management, interpersonal relationships between individual buyers and sellers are an important factor in supplier selection. Other components of overall satisfaction are satisfaction with the product or service and satisfaction with the performance of the supplier. In order to measure the role of these several aspects of overall satisfaction, a survey of Institute for Supply Management™ (ISM) members responsible for making repurchase decisions was conducted. The results demonstrate that satisfaction with the product, satisfaction with the supplier's performance, and satisfaction with the salesperson are correlated with intention to repurchase. Managerial implications of the results are discussed.
An Analysis of the Integration of Strategic Sourcing and Negotiation Planning
Authors: Smeltzer Larry R. , Manship Jennifer A. , Rossetti Christian L.
Published: April 2006

Initially, strategic sourcing is defined as an integrated, seven‐step process that includes the negotiation plan. Research questions are then proposed to determine the extent to which negotiation is part of the integrated sourcing process. To answer the research questions, the strategic sourcing process and negotiation plan are evaluated in 29 cases. In 14 of the 29 cases, strategic sourcing was completed and integrated into the negotiation plan. This is just under half of the cases, which led to the general conclusion that negotiation is not well integrated with the other strategic sourcing processes. Additional findings indicated the appropriate negotiation style was used in only 64 percent of the cases, with most mismatches occurring when an integrative style was used instead of the more appropriate distributive style. Managerial and research implications of the findings are presented and discussed.
International Purchasing and Global Sourcing ‐ What are the Differences?
Authors: Trent Robert J. , Monczka Robert M.
Published: April 2006

As organizations think about the best way to respond to competitive demands, the development of global strategies and approaches, including global sourcing strategies, will become an increasingly attractive option. Since most organizations do not have in place well‐developed global sourcing strategies, improvement opportunities are indeed attractive and largely unrealized. Realizing these opportunities requires a detailed understanding of global sourcing. Achieving this understanding demands replacing anecdotal perceptions and accounts of global sourcing with research‐based findings. These findings will help supply managers better understand what it takes to shift from basic international purchasing to integrated global sourcing strategies and approaches.
Toward the Development of a Supply Chain Management Paradigm: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Giannakis Mihalis , Croom Simon R.
Published: April 2006

This article provides a structured analysis for conceptual and theoretical developments in the field of supply chain management. The article proposes a conceptualization of the supply chain problem domain called the “3S Model.” The model highlights three dimensions of interest to supply chain scholars and practitioners alike: the synthesis of the business and resources network; the characteristics of synergy between different actors in the network; and the synchronization of all operational decisions related to the control of the production and delivery of goods and services.
Does the Competitive Environment Influence the Efficacy of Investments in Environmental Management?
Authors: Pagell Mark , Yang Chen‐Lung , Krumwiede Dennis W. , Sheu Chwen
Published: April 2006

Supply chain managers confront numerous threats and opportunities in today's competitive environment. Firms simultaneously face increased pressure to lower costs and to be innovative. In addition, most firms are also under increased pressure to improve their environmental (ecological) performance. These rival demands from the competitive environment make it difficult for supply chain managers to determine how a specific investment will influence performance. Thus, inevitable tradeoffs among investments must be assessed and implemented. This research examines the efficacy of investments in environmental management in different competitive environments, and provides guidelines for supply chain managers in determining when and how they should respond to simultaneous pressures to improve economic and ecological performance.
Purchasing and Social Responsibility: A Replication and Extension
Authors: Carter Craig R.
Published: April 2006

Socially responsible purchasing continues to be an area of interest from both managerial and scholarly perspectives. Socially responsible purchasing has implications for all elements of the supply chain, including suppliers, employees and customers, among others. This article empirically examines purchasing social responsibility (PSR) across a large sample of manufacturing and service organizations. It is a replication of earlier work on PSR within consumer products industries. The article models PSR across the following five constructs: diversity, the environment, human rights, philanthropy and community, and safety. Findings and specific managerial implications are presented.
A Holistic Approach to New Product Development: New Insights
Authors: Tracey Michael
Published: April 2006

The literature for some time has endorsed a participative approach to new product development. Nonetheless, practice still seldom follows theory. The production, purchasing and logistics areas, as well as suppliers and customers, continue to be underrepresented at many manufacturing firms. This research provides empirical support for including these parties early in new product development. It demonstrates the positive impact their participation can have on manufacturing efficiency and agility, delivery service and organizational performance. It also reveals that there is ample room to increase their participation at many firms.
FIRST-PRINCIPLES STUDY ON THE GEOMETRY AND STABILITY OF HYDROGEN ON THETa(001)(1 × 1) SURFACE
Authors: XU L. , XIAO H. Y. , ZU X. T.
Published: April 2006

The adsorption of hydrogen atoms on the Ta (001)(1 × 1) surface is studied by first-principles density functional calculations within the generalized gradient approximation. It turns out that at 1 ML, coverage bridge site is energetically preferred over three-fold hollow site. This result does not support a recent LEED and HREELS observation that three-fold hollow site was preferred. The layer separation between the H atom and the topmost Ta atom is 1.12 Å and 0.55 Å for bridge and three-fold hollow site, respectively. Atomic distance between the H atom and the first layer Ta atom is 1.998 Å for bridge and 2.06 Å for three-fold site. The structural and energetic properties of H/W (100)(1 × 1) have been calculated. The results are shown to be in excellent agreement with available experimental and theoretical analysis. We find that the adsorption behavior of hydrogen on Ta (001)(1 × 1) surface is very similar to that of H/W (100) system.
SURFACE CHARACTERIZATION AND GRAIN SIZE CALCULATION OF SILVER FILMS DEPOSITED BY THERMAL EVAPORATION
Authors: MAQBOOL MUHAMMAD , KHAN TAHIRZEB
Published: April 2006

Thin films of pure silver were deposited on glass substrate by thermal evaporation process at room temperature. Surface characterization of the films was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Thickness of the films varied between 20 nm and 60 nm. XRD analysis provided a sharp peak at 38.75° from silver. These results indicated that the films deposited on glass substrates at room temperature are crystalline. 3D and top view pictures of the films were obtained by AFM to study the grain size and its dependency on various factors. Grain sizes were calculated using the XRD results and Scherer's formula. Average grain size increased with the thickness of the deposited films. A minimum grain size of 8 nm was obtained for 20 nm thick films, reaching a maximum value of 41.9 nm when the film size reaches 60 nm. We could not find any sequential variation in the grain size with the growth rate.
ADVANCEMENT IN PREPARATION OF HYDROXYAPATITE/BIOGLASS GRADED COATINGS BY ELECTROPHORETIC DEPOSITION
Authors: YAO LIANG , CHEN CHUANZHONG , WANG DIANGANG , BAO QUANHE , MA JIE
Published: April 2006

Electrophoretic deposition is a good method in the preparation of hydroxyapatite/bioglass graded coatings. Its processing parameters are easy to be operated. As it is nonbeeline process, it can be used in the deposition of complex shape and porous surface. This paper reviewed the advancement of the graded coatings in recent years, concluded the principles, characters, steps of electrophoretic deposition of bioceramic coatings and analyzed influencing factors in detail, such as granularity of suspension, aging of suspension, dispersion media, PH of suspension, electricity, voltage, deposition time, pretreatment of substrate and sintering. The foreground of hydroxyapatite/bioglass graded coatings is expected.
STRUCTURAL AND ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF DIAMOND-LIKE CARBON THIN FILMS PREPARED IN INERT GAS CONDITION
Authors: RUSOP M. , SOGA T. , JIMBO T. , UMENO M. , SHARON M.
Published: April 2006

The effects of ambient helium gas pressure on the optical, structural and electrical properties of the diamond-like carbon thin films from camphoric carbon soot target, deposited by pulsed laser deposition have been studied. Optical gap and electrical resistivity are found to increase initially at low ambient pressure of 0.008 Torr. With further increase in ambient pressure up to 2.6 Torr, optical gap and electrical resistivity are found to decrease. The films are characterized for their structural properties using different spectroscopic techniques such as, XPS, Raman, and FTIR spectroscopy, and surface morphological techniques like SEM and AFM, and their electrical properties using four-probe resistance measurement.
ELECTRONIC PROPERTIES OF BARIUM ULTRATHIN LAYERS ON THE Ni(110) SURFACE
Authors: KAMARATOS M. , VLACHOS D. , FOULIAS S. D.
Published: April 2006

In this paper, we study the adsorption of Ba on the Ni (110) surface at room temperature. The investigation takes place mainly by soft X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements. At low coverage (<0.5 ML ), the Ba adatoms are in a partially ionic state, whereas at higher coverage, the barium overlayer becomes metallic. The nonmetal to metal transition is characterized by a new Ba 4d doublet appearing at higher binding energy. This more bound Ba 4d core state is attributed to initial state changes of the electrostatic potential at the atomic core region, due to changes in the hybridization of the Ba atoms from Ba 5d with Ni 3d, to Ba 5d, 6s and 6p states in the metallic phase. The latter states are more spatially extended than the Ba 5d ones, overlapping with the Ni 3d orbitals in the nonmetal and therefore lead to a reduced potential at the core electrons. A strong effect on the Ba 4d binding energy shifts, due to the surface dipole induced by the adsorbate itself, was observed.
OXYGEN AND POTASSIUM ADSORPTION ON A CARBIDE-MODIFIED STEPPED-W(100) IN CONTACT WITH THE CARBON SOLID SOLUTION: AN AES AND WF STUDY AT 300 K AND AT ELEVATED TEMPERATURES
Authors: FOULIAS S. D. , PERDIKIS A. , VLACHOS D.
Published: April 2006

The adsorption of oxygen and potassium on the two-phase system: carbide-modified stepped- W (100) surface (CMT) in contact with the solid solution of carbon in bulk tungsten, was investigated by AES and WF measurements. The CMT surface shows metallic behavior judging from its interaction with K . The expected dissociative adsorption of oxygen appears to occur with 1 - θ kinetics, possibly via a molecularly chemisorbed state. The "dispersed phase — two-phase" model is clearly applicable when oxygen adsorbs on the K -pre-covered carbide. The initial sticking coefficient of oxygen increases drastically from the dispersed to the condensed phase, at least four-fold with respect to s0 on the clean carbide. It is proposed that this two-phase carbon system can be advantageous compared with the bulk carbide since it can easily regenerate the surface if the latter is depleted from carbon.
EFFECT OF ANNEALING TEMPERATURE ON THE OPTICAL AND STRUCTURAL PROPERTIES OF DIP-COATED Al2O3 THIN FILMS PREPARED BY SOL–GEL ROUTE
Authors: GHODSI F. E. , MAFAKHERI M. , NOVINROOZ A.
Published: April 2006

Thin films of Al 2 O 3 were prepared by the sol–gel process. Dip-coating technique was used for deposition of the Al 2 O 3 thin films onto glass substrates. Optical and structural properties of the films were investigated with respect to the annealing temperature (100–500°C). The structure of these films was determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed for the analysis of surface morphology. For determination of the optical constants of Al 2 O 3 thin films, UV-Visible spectrophotometry measurements were carried out. Annealing temperature affects the structural and optical properties of the Al 2 O 3 thin films. The refractive index and extinction coefficient of the films at 550 nm wavelength increase from 1.56 to 1.66, and from 3.41 × 10-5 to 5.54 × 10-5, respectively while optical band gap and thickness of the films decrease from 4.15 eV to 4.11 eV, and 360 nm to 260 nm, respectively, by increasing annealing temperature from 100°C to 500°C.
PHOTOELECTRONIC INVESTIGATION OF Pd ELECTRON STRUCTURE TRANSFORMATION AT OXYGEN ADSORPTION
Authors: BELASH V. P. , KLIMOVA I. N. , MITROKHIN Yu. S.
Published: April 2006

Oxygen adsorption on the surface of polycrystalline palladium has been studied by the photoelectron spectroscopy method in a wide range of oxygen exposure and temperatures, starting with the earliest stages of adsorption to the formation of the surface compound of PdO -type. Based on the analysis of the experimental data and the calculation of the density of states carried out by the TB-LMTO-ASA method, the attempt to elucidate the electronic mechanism of adsorption and oxidation power of palladium was made.
EFFECT OF Au DEPOSITION ON PHOTOCATALYTIC ACTIVITY OF ZnO NANOPARTICLES FOR CO OXIDATION
Authors: ZHANG MIN , YANG JIANJUN , DAI SHUXI , HE PANKE , ZHANG ZHIJUN
Published: April 2006

In this paper, pure and Au -deposited ZnO nanoparticles with different Au content were prepared and characterized. The effect of Au content on the PL properties and photocatalytic activity of CO oxidation was mainly investigated. The results showed that Au deposition can greatly decrease the intensity of PL and enhance the photocatalytic activity of CO oxidation, which may be attributed to the increased amounts of [Formula: see text] and the formation of O (or O -) on Au/ZnO surface.
Comparative SAGE analysis of the response to hypoxia in human pulmonary and aortic endothelial cells
Authors: Peters D. G. , Ning W. , Chu T. J. , Li C. J. , Choi A. M. K.
Published: April 2006

We utilized serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE) to analyze the temporal response of human pulmonary artery endothelial cells (HPAECs) to short-term chronic hypoxia at the level of transcription. Primary cultures of HPAECs were exposed to 1% O2hypoxia for 8 and 24 h and compared with identical same-passage cells cultured under standard (5% CO2-95% air) conditions. Hierarchical clustering of significant hypoxia-responsive genes identified temporal changes in the expressions of a number of well-described gene families including those encoding proteins involved in thrombosis, stress response, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and cell proliferation. These experiments build on previously published data describing the transcriptomic response of human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) obtained from the same donor and cultured under identical conditions, and we have thus taken advantage of the immortality of SAGE data to make direct comparisons between these two data sets. This approach revealed comprehensive information relating to the similarities and differences at the level of mRNA expression between HAECs and HPAECs. For example, we found differences in the cell type-specific response to hypoxia among genes encoding cytoskeletal factors, including paxillin, and proteins involved in metabolic energy production, the response to oxidative stress, and vasoreactivity (e.g., endothelin-1). These efforts contribute to the expanding collection of publicly available SAGE data and provide a foundation on which to base further efforts to understand the characteristics of the vascular response to hypoxia in the pulmonary circulation relative to systemic vasculature.
Thermoprotection of synaptic transmission in aDrosophilaheat shock factor mutant is accompanied by increased expression of Hsp83 and DnaJ-1
Authors: Neal Scott J. , Karunanithi Shanker , Best Adrienne , So Anthony Ken-Choy , Tanguay Robert M. , Atwood Harold L. , Westwood J. Timothy
Published: April 2006

In Drosophila larvae, acquired synaptic thermotolerance after heat shock has previously been shown to correlate with the induction of heat shock proteins (Hsps) including HSP70. We tested the hypothesis that synaptic thermotolerance would be significantly diminished in a temperature-sensitive strain ( Drosophila heat shock factor mutant hsf4), which has been reported not to be able to produce inducible Hsps in response to heat shock. Contrary to our hypothesis, considerable thermoprotection was still observed at hsf4larval synapses after heat shock. To investigate the cause of this thermoprotection, we conducted DNA microarray experiments to identify heat-induced transcript changes in these organisms. Transcripts of the hsp83, dnaJ-1 ( hsp40), and glutathione- S-transferase gstE1 genes were significantly upregulated in hsf4larvae after heat shock. In addition, increases in the levels of Hsp83 and DnaJ-1 proteins but not in the inducible form of Hsp70 were detected by Western blot analysis. The mode of heat shock administration differentially affected the relative transcript and translational changes for these chaperones. These results indicate that the compensatory upregulation of constitutively expressed Hsps, in the absence of the synthesis of the major inducible Hsp, Hsp70, could still provide substantial thermoprotection to both synapses and the whole organism.
Effect of moderate hypothermia on gene expression by THP-1 cells: a DNA microarray study
Authors: Sonna Larry A. , Kuhlmeier Matthew M. , Carter Heather C. , Hasday Jeffrey D. , Lilly Craig M. , Fairchild Karen D.
Published: April 2006

The mechanisms by which moderate hypothermia (32°C for 12–72 h) affect human cellular function are unclear. We tested the hypothesis that it produces broad changes in mRNA expression in vitro. Acute monocytic leukemia (THP-1) cells were incubated under control conditions (37°C) or moderate hypothermia (32°C) for 24 h. RNA was extracted, and the hypothermic response was confirmed by examining the expression of the cold-induced RNA-binding protein (CIRBP) gene by RT-PCR. Gene expression analysis was performed on seven sets of paired samples with Affymetrix U133A chips using established statistical methods. Sequences were considered affected by cold if they showed statistically significant changes in expression and also met published post hoc filter criteria (changes in geometric mean expression of ≥2-fold and expression calls of “present” or “marginal” in at least half of the experiments). Changes in the expression of selected sequences were further confirmed by PCR. Sixty-seven sequences met the criteria for increased expression (including cold-inducible genes CIRBP and RNA binding motif 3), and 100 sequences showed decreased expression as a result of hypothermia. Functional categories affected by hypothermia included genes involved in immune responses; cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation; and metabolism and biosynthesis. Several heat shock proteins (HSPs) showed decreases in expression. Moderate hypothermia produces substantial changes in gene expression, in categories potentially of systemic importance. Cold exposure without rewarming decreased the expression of several HSPs. These in vitro findings suggest that prolonged hypothermia in vivo might be capable of producing physiologically relevant changes in gene expression by circulating leukocytes.
Research of a mathematical model of low‐concentrated aqueous polymer solutions
Authors: Turbin Mikhail V.
Published: April 2006

The initial‐boundary value problem for the mathematical model of low‐concentrated aqueous polymer solutions is considered. For this initial‐boundary value problem a concept of a weak solution is introduced and the existence theorem for such solutions is proved.
On the two‐point boundary value problem for quadratic second‐order differential equations andinclusions on manifolds
Authors: Gliklikh Yuri E. , Zykov Peter S.
Published: April 2006

The two‐point boundary value problem for second‐order
differential inclusions of the form (D/dt)ṁ(t) ∈ F(t, m(t), ṁ(t)) on complete Riemannian manifolds is
investigated for a couple of points, nonconjugate along at least
one geodesic of Levi‐Civitá connection, where D/dt is the covariant derivative of Levi‐Civitá connection and F(t, m, X) is a set‐valued vector with quadratic or less than quadratic growth in
the third argument. Some interrelations between certain geometric
characteristics, the distance between points, and the norm of
right‐hand side are found that guarantee solvability of the above
problem for F with quadratic growth in X. It is shown that
this interrelation holds for all inclusions with F having less than quadratic growth in X, and so for them the problem is solvable.
A note on properties that imply the fixed point property
Authors: Dhompongsa S. , Kaewkhao A.
Published: April 2006

We give relationships between some Banach‐space geometric
properties that guarantee the weak fixed point property. The
results extend some known results
of Dalby and Xu.
A nonlinear second order problem witha nonlocal boundary condition
Authors: Amster P. , De Nápoli P.
Published: April 2006

We study a nonlinear problem of pendulum‐type for a
p‐Laplacian with nonlinear periodic‐type
boundary conditions. Using an extension of Mawhin′s continuation
theorem for nonlinear operators, we prove the existence of a
solution under a Landesman‐Lazer type condition. Moreover, using
the method of upper and lower solutions, we generalize a
celebrated result by Castro for the classical pendulum equation.
Dynamics via measurability
Authors: Butler Svetlana , Rosenblatt Joseph
Published: April 2006

Generators f for σ‐algebras can be used to view the
dynamics of an invertible measurable transformation T in terms
of the range values of f∘T. Such generators are the norm
rather than the exception. Related measurable and quantitative
methods of estimating a function from the behavior of ergodic
averages are also discussed.
New Dihydro OO′Bis(Salicylidene) 2,2′ AminobenzothiazolylBorate Complexes: Kinetic and Voltammetric Studies of Dimethyltin Copper Complex with Guanine, Adenine, and Calf Thymus DNA
Authors: Arjmand Farukh , Mohani Bhawana , Parveen Shamima
Published: April 2006

The newly synthesized ligand, dihydro OO′bis(salicylidene) 2,2′
aminobenzothiazolyl borate (2), was derived from the reaction of
Schiff base of 2‐aminobenzothiazole and salicylaldehyde with
KBH4. CuII (3) and ZnII (4) complexes of (2) were synthesized and further metallated with dimethyltindichloride to
yield heterobimetallic complexes (5) and (6). All complexes have
been thoroughly characterized by elemental analysis, and IR, NMR,
EPR, and UV‐Vis spectroscopy and conductance measurements. The
spectroscopic data support square planar environment around the
CuII atom, while the SnIV atom acquires pentacoordinate geometry. The interaction of complex (5) with guanine, adenine,
and calf thymus DNA was studied by spectrophotometric,
electrochemical, and kinetic methods. The absorption spectra of
complex (5) exhibit a remarkable “hyperchromic effect”
in the presence of guanine and calf thymus DNA. Indicative of
strong binding of the complex to calf thymus DNA preferentially
binds through N7 position of guanine base, while the adenine
shows binding to a lesser extent. The kinetic data were obtained
from the rate constants, kobs, values under pseudo‐first‐order conditions. Cyclic voltammetry was employed to
study the interaction of complex (5) with guanine, adenine, and
calf thymus DNA. The CV of complex (5) in the absence and in the
presence of guanine and calf thymus DNA altered drastically, with
a positive shift in formal peak potential Epa and Epc values and a significant increase in peak current. The positive
shift in formal potentials with increase in peak current favours
strong interaction of complex (5) with calf thymus DNA. The net
shift in E1/2 has been used to estimate the ratio of equilibrium constants for the binding of Cu(II) and Cu(I) complexes to calf thymus DNA.
Structure‐Activity Relationships of Synthetic Coumarins as HIV‐1 Inhibitors
Authors: Kostova I. , Raleva S. , Genova P. , Argirova R.
Published: April 2006

HIV/AIDS pandemics is a serious threat to health and development
of mankind, and searching for effective anti‐HIV agents
remains actual. Considerable progress has been made in recent
years in the field of drug development against HIV. A lot of
structurally different coumarins were found to display potent
anti‐HIV activity. The current review demonstrates the variety of
synthetic coumarins having unique mechanism of action referring to
the different stages of HIV replication. Recent studies based on
the account of various synthetic coumarins seem to indicate that
some of them serve as potent non‐nucleoside RT‐inhibitors, another
as inhibitors of HIV‐integrase or HIV‐protease. The merits of
selecting potential anti‐HIV agents to be used in rational
combination drugs design and structure‐activity relationships are
discussed.The scientific community is looking actively for new
drugs and combinations for treatment of HIV infection effective
for first‐line treatment, as well as against resistant mutants.
The investigation on chemical anti‐HIV agents gives hope and
optimism about it. This review article describes recent progress
in the discovery, structure modification, and structure‐activity
relationship studies of potent anti‐HIV coumarin derivatives.
Synthesis, Superoxide Dismutase Mimetic and Anticancer Activities of Metal Complexes of 2,2‐Dimethylpentanedioic Acid(2dmepdaH2) and 3,3‐Dimethylpentanedioic acid(3dmepdaH2): X‐Ray Crystal Structures of [Cu(3dmepda)(bipy)]2 · 6H2O and [Cu(2dmepda)(bipy)(EtOH)]2 · 4EtOH(bipy=2, 2′Bipyridine)
Authors: Devereux Michael , McCann Malachy , O′Shea Denis , O′Connor Mark , Kiely Eileen , McKee Vickie , Naughton Declan , Fisher Anna , Kellett Andrew , Walsh Maureen , Egan Denise , Deegan Carol
Published: April 2006

2,2‐dimethylpentanedioic acid (2dmepdaH2) and 3,3‐dimethylpentanedioic acid (3dmepdaH2) reacted with copper(II) acetate to give [Cu(2dmepda) (1) and [Cu(3dmepda) (2). Reaction of (1) and (2) with 1,10‐phenanthroline and 2,2′‐bipyridine yielded [Cu(2dmepda)(phen)0.5phen (3), [Cu(2dmepda)(bipy) (4), [Cu(2dmepda)(bipy)(EtOH)]2 · 2EtOH (4A), [Cu(3dmepda)(phen) (5), and [Cu(3dmepda)(bipy) (6). The structures of (4A) and (6) each consists of a [Cu(bipy)(dicarboxylate)(solvent)]2 dimer. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic activity of the novel copper complexes and their manganese analogues was investigated. The dimethyl sulphoxide(DMSO) soluble complexes (1)–(4) and (6) were assessed for their cancer chemotherapeutic potential towards hepatocellular carcinoma and kidney adenocarcinoma cell lines. The 1,10‐phenanthroline containing complex
[Cu(2dmepda)(phen)0.5phen (3) was the most potent with activity that compares well to that of cisplatin.
Existence of positive solutions for certain partial difference equations
Authors: Zhang Binggen , Xing Qiuju
Published: April 2006

We give some sufficient conditions for the existence of positive
solutions of partial difference equation aAm+1,n+1 + bAm,n+1 + cAm+1,n − dAm,n + Pm,nAm−k,n−1 = 0 by two different methods.
Linear and nonlinear approach for DEM smoothening
Authors: Dinesh S. , Radhakrishnan P.
Published: April 2006

One of the biggest problems faced while analyzing digital elevation models (DEMs), particularly DEMs that are produced using photogrammetry, is to avoid pits and peaks in DEMs. Peaks and pits, which are errors, are generated during the surface generation process. DEM smoothening is an important preprocessing step meant for removing these errors. This paper discusses two linear DEM smoothening methods, Gaussian blurring and mean smoothening, and two nonlinear DEM smoothening methods, morphological smoothening and morphological smoothening by reconstruction. The four methods are implemented on a photogrammetrically generated DEM. The drainage network of the resultant DEM is obtained using skeletonization by morphological thinning, and the fractal dimension of the extracted network is computed using the box dimension method. The fractal dimensions are then compared to study the effects of the four smoothening methods. The advantages of nonlinear DEM smoothening over linear DEM smoothening are discussed. This study is useful in landscape descriptions.
Well‐posedness of the difference schemes of the high order of accuracy for elliptic equations
Authors: Ashyralyev Allaberen , Sobolevskiĭ Pavel E.
Published: April 2006

It is well known the differential equation −u″(t) + Au(t) = f(t)(−∞ < t < ∞) in a general Banach space E with the positive operator A is ill‐posed in the Banach space
C(E) = C((−∞, ∞), E) of the bounded continuous functions
ϕ(t) defined on the whole real line with norm
‖ϕ‖C(E) = sup⁡−∞<t<∞‖ϕ(t)‖E. In the present paper we consider the high order of accuracy
two‐step difference schemes generated by an exact difference
scheme or by Taylor′s decomposition on three points for the
approximate solutions of this differential equation. The
well‐posedness of these difference schemes in the difference
analogy of the smooth functions is obtained. The exact almost
coercive inequality for solutions in C(τ, E) of these difference schemes is established.
Reducing the number of fixed points of some homeomorphisms on nonprime "Equation missing" -manifolds
Authors: Zhao Xuezhi
Published: April 2006

We will consider the number of fixed points of homeomorphisms composed of finitely many slide homeomorphisms on closed oriented nonprime "Equation missing"-manifolds. By isotoping such homeomorphisms, we try to reduce their fixed point numbers. The numbers obtained are determined by the intersection information of sliding spheres and sliding paths of the slide homeomorphisms involved.
Fixed point theorems in locally convex spaces—the Schauder mapping method
Authors: Cobzaş S
Published: April 2006

In the appendix to the book by F. F. Bonsal, Lectures on Some Fixed Point Theorems of Functional Analysis (Tata Institute, Bombay, 1962) a proof by Singbal of the Schauder-Tychonoff fixed point theorem, based on a locally convex variant of Schauder mapping method, is included. The aim of this note is to show that this method can be adapted to yield a proof of Kakutani fixed point theorem in the locally convex case. For the sake of completeness we include also the proof of Schauder-Tychonoff theorem based on this method. As applications, one proves a theorem of von Neumann and a minimax result in game theory.