Existence Results for Semilinear Neutral Functional Differential Inclusions via Analytic Semigroups

In this paper we prove existence results for semilinear neutral functional differential inclusions with finite or infinite delay in Banach spaces. Our theory makes use of analytic semigroups and fractional powers of closed operators, integrated semigroups and cosine families.      

Study of the peak effect phenomenon in single crystals of 2H-NbSe2

The weakly pinned single crystals of the hexagonal 2H-NbSe₂ compound have emerged as prototypes for determining and characterizing the phase boundaries of the possible order-disorder transformations in the vortex matter. We present here a status report based on the ac and dc magnetization measurements of the peak effect phenomenon in three crystals of 2H-NbSe₂, in which the critical current densities vary over two orders of magnitude. We sketch the generic vortex phase diagram of a weakly pinned superconductor, which also utilizes theoretical proposals. We also establish the connection between the metastability effects and pinning.     

Leggett-Williams norm-type theorems for coincidences

We study the existence of positive solutions to the operator equation Lx = Nx, where L is a linear Fredholm mapping of index zero and N is a nonlinear operator. Using the properties of cones in Banach spaces and Leray-Schauder degree for completely continuous operators, k-set contractions and condensing mappings, we obtain some refinements of the results established in [3] and [14]. Received: 9 July 2005; revised: 12 January 2006     

Shaping Solid-State Supramolecular Cavities: Chemically Induced Accordionlike Movement of gamma-Zirconium Phosphate Containing Polyethylenoxide Pillars

The hydrophilic oxygen atoms of polyethylenoxide chains inserted as pillars in gamma-zirconium phosphate form hydrogen bonds with the acid groups of the host. As a result the pillars are almost perpendicular to the gamma layers. Upon changing the pH level of the supernatant solution the hydrogen bonds are broken and the pillars become almost perpendicular to the layers (shown schematically). Thus there is a reversible enlargement-shortening of the interlayer space.     

Predicting the performance of molecularly imprinted polymers: Selective extraction of caffeine by molecularly imprinted solid phase extraction

A rational design approach was taken to the planning and synthesis of a molecularly imprinted polymer capable of extracting caffeine (the template molecule) from a standard solution of caffeine and further from a food sample containing caffeine. Data from NMR titration experiments in conjunction with a molecular modelling approach was used in predicting the relative ratios of template to functional monomer and furthermore determined both the choice of solvent (porogen) and the amount used for the study. In addition the molecular modelling program yielded information regarding the thermodynamic stability of the pre-polymerisation complex. Post-polymerisation analysis of the polymer itself by analysis of the pore size distribution by BET yielded significant information regarding the nature of the size and distribution of the pores within the polymer matrix. Here is proposed a stepwise procedure for the development and testing of a molecularly imprinted polymer using a well-studied compound—caffeine as a model system. It is shown that both the physical characteristics of a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) and the analysis of the pre-polymerisation complex can yield vital information, which can predict how well a given MIP will perform.     

A robust spin-coated optical sensing device for rapid determination of predominant metal ions in wastewater streams

The potential of an optical sensing material for determination of metal ions in wastewater streams is presented. The initial results in the development of a chromo-ionophore-based optical sensor for metal ions are detailed. An azo dye species, 2-(5-bromo-2-pyridylazo)-5-diethylaminophenol (BrPADAP), together with an ionophore and plasticiser was immobilised in a film of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). Initial investigations using the dye-impregnated sensing film showed a reproducible and reversible response to Pb(II) ions in aqueous solution. The response of this sensing film to Pb(II) at pH 6 was found to be linear in the 0.1-10 mg/L range, with a %RSD of 1.55%. The film can be regenerated by immersion in a low-pH buffer solution. The authors demonstrate how this method shows potential for analysis using once-off sensing probes. The sensing film response for Pb(II) occurs within 30 s.