Showing papers by "University of Wollongong published in 1999"
TL;DR: Predictions based on measurements suggest that actuators using optimized nanotube sheets may eventually provide substantially higher work densities per cycle than any previously known technology.
Abstract: Electromechanical actuators based on sheets of single-walled carbon nanotubes were shown to generate higher stresses than natural muscle and higher strains than high-modulus ferroelectrics. Like natural muscles, the macroscopic actuators are assemblies of billions of individual nanoscale actuators. The actuation mechanism (quantum chemical-based expansion due to electrochemical double-layer charging) does not require ion intercalation, which limits the life and rate of faradaic conducting polymer actuators. Unlike conventional ferroelectric actuators, low operating voltages of a few volts generate large actuator strains. Predictions based on measurements suggest that actuators using optimized nanotube sheets may eventually provide substantially higher work densities per cycle than any previously known technology.
2,334 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present a summary review and a classification of the main approaches that have been developed world-wide for the assessment of hazard and risk of landsliding, and several considerations concerning acceptable risk and risk management are presented.
Abstract: This paper deals with several aspects of the assessment of hazard and risk of landsliding. In recent years the interest in this topic has increased greatly and there are many technical papers dealing with this subject in the literature. This article presents a summary review and a classification of the main approaches that have been developed world-wide. The first step is the subdivision between qualitative and quantitative methods. The first group is mainly based on the site-specific experience of experts with the susceptibility/hazard determined directly in the field or by combining different index maps. The approaches of the second group are formally more rigorous. It is possible to distinguish between statistical analyses (bivariate or multivariate) and deterministic methods that involve the analysis of specific sites or slopes based on geo-engineering models. Such analyses can be deterministic or probabilistic. Among the quantitative methods discussed is the Neural Networks approach which has only recently been applied to engineering geology problems. Finally several considerations concerning the concept of acceptable risk and risk management are presented.
1,227 citations
TL;DR: The results suggest that clusterin may play a sHSP-like role in cytoprotection, and at physiological concentrations, clusterin potently protected glutathione S-transferase and catalase from heat-induced precipitation and α-lactalbumin and bovine serum albumin from precipitation induced by reduction with dithiothreitol.
435 citations
TL;DR: It is suggested that membranes can act as pacemakers for overall metabolic activity and a possible mechanistic basis for this effect is based on a greater transfer of energy during intermolecular collisions of membrane proteins with the unsaturated two carbon units compared to the single carbon units of saturated acyl chains.
299 citations
TL;DR: Electrochemically synthesized composites comprising heparin and the electrically conducting polymer polypyrrole had a shelf life of at least 2 years postautoclaving and were found to be excellent substrates for the growth of human endothelial cells.
Abstract: Heparin is a potent anticoagulant which can be immobilized on biomaterial surfaces to increase their hemocompatability. In the present work, we have electrochemically synthesized composites comprising heparin and the electrically conducting polymer polypyrrole. The incorporation and exposure of heparin were controlled by varying key conditions of polymer synthesis (i.e., applied current and synthesis time). The resulting composite polymers were electroactive after synthesis and the amount of heparin exposed in the polymer could be increased (up to threefold) by switching the polymers from their oxidized to reduced states. Polymer reduction was achieved by either application of negative potentials (-0.4 to -0.7 V for 90 s) or exposure to aqueous reductant (0.1M sodium dithionite for 30 min). Heparin-polypyrrole composites remained stable after autoclaving, displaying no significant loss of electroactivity, and had a shelf life of at least 2 years postautoclaving. Finally, the composites were found to be excellent substrates for the growth of human endothelial cells.
282 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors conducted a study of the relationship between culture and the adoption of IT in two different developing regions: West Africa and the Middle East, and compared the results along eight cultural dimensions and are contrasted with a third developed region, Australia, the country of residence of the researchers.
Abstract: Of all the factors that must be considered in the adoption of information technology, culture is probably the most difficult to isolate, define and measure. Consequently, the influence of local culture on the adoption of computer-based information systems in organisations has not featured prominently in the research literature. As cultural factors may be important to the success of IT projects, we have conducted a study of the relationship between culture and the adoption of IT in two different developing regions: West Africa and the Middle East. The results are compared along eight cultural dimensions and are contrasted with a third developed region, Australia, the country of residence of the researchers. In this paper, we use the results of the study to identify three issues of concern to the relationship of culture and IT, and discuss their implications for the IT industry
261 citations
TL;DR: Given that the hyperactivity component in ADHD reduces with age while the impulsivity component remains, data suggest that decreased beta activity may be linked to hyperactivity and increased theta activity to impulsivity.
252 citations
TL;DR: Combined metformin and repaglinide therapy resulted in superior glycemic control compared with repagliide or metformIn monotherapy in patients with type 2 diabetes whose glycemia had not been well controlled on metform in alone.
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To compare the effect of repaglinide in combination with metformin with monotherapy of each drug on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A total of 83 patients with type 2 diabetes who had inadequate glycemic control (HbA1c > 7.1%) when receiving the antidiabetic agent metformin were enrolled in this multicenter, double-blind trial. Subjects were randomized to continue with their prestudy dose of metformin (n = 27), to continue with their prestudy dose of metformin with the addition of repaglinide (n = 27), or to receive repaglinide alone (n = 29). For patients receiving repaglinide, the optimal dose was determined during a 4- to 8-week titration and continued for a 3-month maintenance period. RESULTS: In subjects receiving combined therapy, HbA1c was reduced by 1.4 +/- 0.2%, from 8.3 to 6.9% (P = 0.0016) and fasting plasma glucose by 2.2 mmol/l (P = 0.0003). No significant changes were observed in subjects treated with either repaglinide or metformin monotherapy in HbA1c (0.4 and 0.3% decrease, respectively) or fasting plasma glucose (0.5 mmol/l increase and 0.3 mmol/l decrease respectively). Subjects receiving repaglinide either alone or in combination with metformin, had an increase in fasting levels of insulin between baseline and the end of the trial of 4.04 +/- 1.56 and 4.23 +/- 1.50 mU/l, respectively (P < 0.02). Gastrointestinal adverse events were common in the metformin group. An increase in body weight occurred in the repaglinide and combined therapy groups (2.4 +/- 0.5 and 3.0 +/- 0.5 kg, respectively; P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Combined metformin and repaglinide therapy resulted in superior glycemic control compared with repaglinide or metformin monotherapy in patients with type 2 diabetes whose glycemia had not been well controlled on metformin alone. Repaglinide monotherapy was as effective as metformin monotherapy.
250 citations
229 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, spherical nickel hydroxide powders coprecipitated with the additives Ca(OH,sub 2), Co(OH), Sub 2, and Zn(sub 2) were prepared through a spraying technique and the effects of the additives on electrode properties such as charge-discharge, reversibility of the electrode reaction, and cycle life were studied.
Abstract: Spherical nickel hydroxide powders coprecipitated with the additives Ca(OH){sub 2}, Co(OH){sub 2}, and Zn(OH){sub 2} were prepared through a spraying technique. These powders, which have a higher tapping density and a much smaller pore volume and crystalline size than conventional powders, were used as the active materials of nickel hydroxide electrodes. The effects of the Ca(OH){sub 2}, Co(OH){sub 2}, and Zn(OH){sub 2} additions on electrode properties such as charge-discharge, reversibility of the electrode reaction, and cycle life, were studied. The relationship between the electrode swelling and the formation of {gamma}-NiOOH was also investigated. The results show that nickel hydroxide powders having a smaller crystallite size show better electrode characteristics such as lower overpotential, higher plateau discharge potential, and higher capacity. The utilization of the active material in the electrodes illustrates that for general use it is better to add Co{sub 2+}, while for a wider temperature range, it would be better to consider the addition of Ca{sup 2+}. The cycle life of the electrode containing Zn{sup 2+} was improved obviously because there was less electrode swelling due to much reduced formation of {gamma}-NiOOH.
222 citations
TL;DR: Analysis of qualitative data collected in 1995 from multi-ethnic and multi-religious communities in Karachi shows that consanguineous marriages are preferred across all ethnic and religious groups to a varying degree, and that parents continue to be the prime decision-makers for marriages of both sons and daughters.
Abstract: Although the recent Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) show that two-thirds of marriages in Pakistan are consanguineous, the sociocultural determinants of such marriages remain largely unexplored. This paper examines the relative importance of the three commonly perceived reasons for such marriages: religious, economic and cultural. The analysis is based on qualitative data collected in 1995 from multi-ethnic and multi-religious communities in Karachi, the largest city of Pakistan. Results show that consanguineous marriages are preferred across all ethnic and religious groups to a varying degree, and that parents continue to be the prime decision-makers for marriages of both sons and daughters. The major reasons for a preference for consanguineous marriages are sociocultural rather than any perceived economic benefits, either in the form of consolidation of family property or smaller and less expensive dowries. Among Muslims, following religious traditions is the least commonly cited reason for such marriages. Despite the reported sociocultural advantages of consanguineous marriages, such unions are perceived to be exploitative as they perpetuate the existing power structures within the family.
TL;DR: This paper explored the "lived experience" of organizational politics from the standpoint of the change agent, focusing on qualitative, idiographic accounts drawn from five interviews from a pilot study designed to develop a research methodology for advancing understanding of the shaping role of political behavior in organizational change.
Abstract: This paper explores the "lived experience" of organizational politics from the standpoint of the change agent. While political behavior appears inevitably to accompany organizational change, the literature of change management seems to adopt an ambivalent approach to this area. The literature of organizational politics, on the other hand, identifies power bases, and offers prescriptive lists of "power tactics" without explaining how these are deployed in the context of driving, shaping, influencing, or implementing change. How do change agents become engaged in political activity, what forms does this take, and can these actions withstand public scrutiny? This paper is based on qualitative, idiographic accounts drawn from five interviews from a pilot study designed to develop a research methodology for advancing understanding of the shaping role of political behavior in organizational change. The case illustrations presented suggest that political behavior is an accepted rather than an objectionable dimen...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors provided a methodology to include the smear effect of vertical drains in a 2D plane-strain finite-element model, employing the modified Cam-clay theory.
Abstract: The present study provides a methodology to include the smear effect of vertical drains in a two-dimensional (2D) plane-strain finite-element model, employing the modified Cam-clay theory. The analysis is conducted by converting the radius of the smear zone and its permeability (axisymmetric) into equivalent plane strain parameters. The introduction of smear effects improves the accuracy of the numerical model that is tested for a Malaysian soft clay, in this study.
TL;DR: Carbon isotopes in fossil emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) eggshell from Lake Eyre, South Australia, demonstrate that the relative abundance of C4 grasses varied substantially during the past 65,000 years, implying that the Australian monsoon was most effective between 45,000 and 65, thousands years ago and least effective during the Last Glacial Maximum.
Abstract: Carbon isotopes in fossil emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) eggshell from Lake Eyre, South Australia, demonstrate that the relative abundance of C4 grasses varied substantially during the past 65,000 years. Currently, C4 grasses are more abundant in regions that are increasingly affected by warm-season precipitation. Thus, an expansion of C4 grasses likely reflects an increase in the relative effectiveness of the Australian summer monsoon, which controls summer precipitation over Lake Eyre. The data imply that the Australian monsoon was most effective between 45,000 and 65,000 years ago, least effective during the Last Glacial Maximum, and moderately effective during the Holocene.
TL;DR: It was demonstrated that the mid‐dorsolateral frontal cortex and its medial extension is the origin of a specific fiber pathway, running posteriorly as part of the cingulum bundle, and terminating mainly in the retrosplenial area 30 and the posterior presubiculum.
Abstract: The present study investigated the origin, course, and terminations of the association fiber system linking the frontal cortex with the hippocampal system by means of the cingulum bundle. Injections of tritiated amino acids were placed within individual cytoarchitectonic areas of the frontal cortex in the rhesus monkey. It was demonstrated that the mid-dorsolateral frontal cortex (areas 46, 9/46, and 9) and its medial extension (medial areas 9 and 9/32) is the origin of a specific fiber pathway, running posteriorly as part of the cingulum bundle, and terminating mainly in the retrosplenial area 30 and the posterior presubiculum. This fiber bundle therefore provides the anatomical substrate of a functional interaction between the mid-dorsolateral frontal cortex and the hippocampal memory system for the monitoring of information within working memory.
TL;DR: A review of the options available for immobilisation of biocomponents and signal generation using conducting polymer-based biosensors can be found in this article, where a range of biological moieties (enzymes, antibodies and even whole living cells) are incorporated into the polymer structure.
Abstract: Conductive electroactive polymers are materials discovered just on two decades ago. Originally heralded for their high conductivity/weight ratio, it is the unique chemical properties they possess that now arouse much attention. The ability to synthesise these materials under mild conditions enables a range of biological moieties (enzymes, antibodies and even whole living cells) to be incorporated into the polymer structure. The unique electronic properties then allow direct and interactive communication with the biochemistries incorporated to produce a range of analytical signals. This work reviews the options available for immobilisation of biocomponents and signal generation using conducting polymer-based biosensors.
TL;DR: Using the example of Sydney's 2000 Olympic bid, this article examined the relationship between hallmark events and three characteristics of the post-modern city: government policies informed by entre-...
Abstract: Using the example of Sydney's 2000 Olympic bid, this paper examines the relationship between hallmark events and three characteristics of the post-modern city: government policies informed by entre...
TL;DR: The results of this study indicate that nurses need to recognize and respond to the tremendous emotional impact that chronic illness and its treatment can have on families in an era where it is possible to sustain life for years with the use of life support technology.
Abstract: This phenomenological study was conducted to investigate the biopsychosocial impact of end-stage renal disease on dialysis patients and their partners. Forty-four participants were interviewed separately (22 patients and their partners) by way of two open-ended questions, and multiple themes were identified from verbatim transcripts. Both the patients and partners viewed their relationship very positively, and both were overwhelmed by the impact of dialysis on their lives. Anger, depression and hopelessness were evident in the patients, whilst a pervasive sadness, resentment, guilt and loss were prevalent in the partners. This study gives a unique perspective on the negative impact which dialysis can have on couples, yet it also suggests that some are able to cope in a positive way despite the many life-style adjustments required by dialysis. The results of this study indicate that nurses need to recognize and respond to the tremendous emotional impact that chronic illness and its treatment can have on families in an era where it is possible to sustain life for years with the use of life support technology.
TL;DR: The findings indicate the continuation of increased slow wave activity in ADHD adolescents and the presence of a state of autonomic hypoarousal in this clinical group.
TL;DR: This article explored how print media representations of sport contribute to the denial of lesbian sexuality and social relations, and demonstrated how choices in language and visual representations work to engage in a process of normalization whereby these female rugby union players playing a ''man's game'' are constituted in terms of hegemonic versions of heterosexual femininity.
Abstract: Media representations of sport are particularly powerful in naturalizing and normalizing hegemonic meanings about the body and social relations. While there is a considerable body of research that analyses how gender differences are constructed in media coverage of sport, much of this research does not question the hegemony of heterosexual relations. This article extends this research by exploring how print media representations of sport contribute to the denial of lesbian sexuality and social relations. Specifically, the article will demonstrate how choices in language and visual representations work to engage in a process of normalization whereby these female rugby union players playing a `man's game' are constituted in terms of hegemonic versions of heterosexual femininity.
TL;DR: A broader, more general approach is required that not only helps students to understand basic engineering principles but also gives them the ability to acquire more specialized knowledge as the need arises as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: Engineering appears to be at a turning point. It is evolving from an occupation that provides employers and clients with competent technical advice to a profession that serves the community in a socially responsible manner. Traditional engineering education caters to the former ideal, whereas increasingly both engineers themselves and their professional societies aspire to the latter. Employers are also requiring more from their engineering employees than technical proficiency. A new educational approach is needed to meet these changing requirements. It is no longer sufficient, nor even practical, to attempt to cram students full of technical knowledge in the hope that it will enable them to do whatever engineering task is required of them throughout their careers. A broader, more general approach is required that not only helps students to understand basic engineering principles but also gives them the ability to acquire more specialized knowledge as the need arises.
TL;DR: A prototype of an immuno-biosensor for detecting antibodies recognizing the Rhesus blood group antigen, Rh (D), was constructed and a characteristic cyclic change in resistance (a resistogram) was recorded.
Abstract: Antibodies to Rhesus (Rh) antigens are important indicators in screening for haemolytic disease of the new-born (HDN) and autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA). Identification of the Rh antibodies formed by immune stimulation is also essential in order to maximize the in vivo survival time of transfused erythrocytes. Currently this is performed by agglutination based assays that are time consuming.
A prototype of an immuno-biosensor for detecting antibodies recognizing the Rhesus blood group antigen, Rh (D), was constructed. Human erythrocytes were incorporated into a conducting polypyrrole, polyelectrolyte matrix. The process was followed by using oximetry and light microscopy to demonstrate the integrity of the erythrocytes in the polymerization solution and in the polymer matrix; cyclic voltammetry and resistometry for electrochemical characterization of the polymer and then agglutination, ELISA techniques and cyclic resistometry for analysis of the immuno response from antigen/antibody binding. Antigen/antibody binding could be detected qualitatively by using resistometry while cycling the polymer between +0.35 V and –0.7 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). A characteristic cyclic change in resistance (a resistogram) was recorded. After addition of Anti-Rh (D) antibody (250 µg/mL), the change in resistance during the resistogram decreased by 1.1 Ω (p<0.0008) in polymers containing Rh (D) positive erythrocytes, whereas polymers without erythrocytes showed no significant change.
TL;DR: The article argues that the neo-classical view that skilled migration leads to overall improvement in global development does not apply and improved data and constructive dialogue on skilled migration are needed.
Abstract: Skilled migration has become a major element of contemporary flows. It has developed in scale and variety since the 1930s and now takes many forms, including “brain drain”, professional transients, skilled permanent migrants and business transfers. Nevertheless, the data are poor, inconsistent and usually not differentiated by sex.
The importance of policies, both national and regional, to control the movement of skilled migrants has escalated. Receiving countries have come increasingly to see the benefits from admitting skilled workers and have adjusted their permanent and/or temporary migration laws/policies to facilitate entry, usually on the proviso that it does not disadvantage their own workers by taking away their jobs.
Another set of policy frameworks within which skilled migration is occurring is regional blocs. The experience of the European Union (EU) in promoting the flow of skilled labour, movement in this direction in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Mercosul, the Closer Economic Relations (CER) Agreement between Australia and New Zealand and the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum are analysed.
The article poses two sets of issues facing sending and receiving countries. For sending countries they are: whether to free up or tighten migration; whether to support temporary skilled flows; whether to introduce protective or preventive measures to stem skilled emigration; how to encourage the return of skilled nationals; and whether/how to pursue compensation from post-industrialized countries.
For receiving countries they are: whether to encourage temporary or permanent skilled immigration; the level of entry to permit/promote; how to select/process skilled immigrants; whether/how to protect the jobs of locals; and how they ensure the successful labour market integration of skilled immigrants.
The article argues that the neo-classical view that skilled migration leads to overall improvement in global development does not apply. “Brain waste” or “wasted skills” occur frequently, to the detriment of both individuals and nations. Improved data and constructive dialogue on skilled migration are needed. Within both regional and international contexts, countries have obligations and responsibilities towards each other which need to be taken seriously.
TL;DR: The results suggest that for elite climbers outdoor sport rock climbs of five to 10 minutes' duration and moderate difficulty require a significant portion of the VO2climb-peak.
Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To assess oxygen uptake (VO2), blood lactate concentration ([La(b)]), and heart rate (HR) response during indoor and outdoor sport climbing. METHODS: Seven climbers aged 25 (SE 1) years, with a personal best ascent without preview or fall (on sight) ranging from 6b to 7a were assessed using an indoor vertical treadmill with artificial rock hand/foot holds and a discontinuous protocol with climbing velocity incremented until voluntary fatigue. On a separate occasion the subjects performed a 23.4 m outdoor rock climb graded 5c and taking 7 min 36 s (SE 33 s) to complete. Cardiorespiratory parameters were measured using a telemetry system and [La(b)] collected at rest and after climbing. RESULTS: Indoor climbing elicited a peak oxygen uptake (VO2climb-peak) and peak HR (HRpeak) of 43.8 (SE 2.2) ml/kg/min and 190 (SE 4) bpm, respectively and increased blood lactate concentration [La(b)] from 1.4 (0.1) to 10.2 (0.6) mmol/l (p < 0.05). During outdoor climbing VO2 and HR increased to about 75% and 83% of VO2climb-peak and HRpeak, respectively. [La(b)] increased from 1.3 (0.1) at rest to 4.5 mmol/l (p < 0.05) at 2 min 32 s (8 s) after completion of the climb. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that for elite climbers outdoor sport rock climbs of five to 10 minutes' duration and moderate difficulty require a significant portion of the VO2climb-peak. The higher HR and VO2 for outdoor climbing and the increased [La(b)] could be the result of repeated isometric contractions, particularly from the arm and forearm muscles.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined several alternative models of how reef islands might have developed in relation to chronology and sediment provenance, particularly in the context of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands where this issue has been debated since Darwin visited the atoll.
TL;DR: This article conducted a survey on large manufacturing firms in Australia and Japan during 1997 and found that the Japanese companies seem to have introduced more frequent changes to management accounting practices than their Australian counterparts.
TL;DR: This paper describes a series of in vitro experiments during which juveniles of the euryhaline ostracod Cyprideis australiensis were grown to adulthood in waters of ranging salinities and Mg=Ca and Sr=Ca ratios, and under two different constant temperature regimes, 20o and 25oC.
TL;DR: The spinel Li[Li1/3Ti5/3]O4 compound was synthesized via a solid-state method and its electrochemical performance in lithium ion cells was examined as mentioned in this paper.
TL;DR: The variations observed in (129)Xe/(130) Xe between solar wind xenon, Earth's atmosphere, and mantle samples may be generated by variations of iodine/xenon in terrestrial reservoirs, as opposed to rapid early degassing.
Abstract: Carbon dioxide well gases in Colorado, New Mexico, and South Australia show excesses of 124–128Xe correlated with129I-derived 129Xe and20Ne/22Ne ratios that are higher than the atmospheric 20Ne/22Ne ratio. The xenon isotopic data indicate the presence of a solarlike component deep within Earth. The presence of this component in crustal and upper mantle reservoirs may be explained by a steady-state transport of noble gases from the lower mantle, which still retains much of its juvenile volatile inventory. These measurements also indicate that the mantle source of these noble gases in the carbon dioxide well gases cannot be the source of Earth's present atmosphere. The variations observed in129Xe/130Xe between solar wind xenon, Earth's atmosphere, and mantle samples may be generated by variations of iodine/xenon in terrestrial reservoirs, as opposed to rapid early degassing.
TL;DR: The results show that as lenses age, there is a reduction in the rate at which water and presumably also water soluble low molecular weight metabolites, can enter the cells of the lens nucleus via the epithelium and cortex.