Plasma Polymerization Of Tetrafluoroethylene. I. Inductive Radio Frequency Discharge

The plasma polymerization of tetrafluoroethylene in an inductively coupled radio frequency glow discharge, using a flow system, was studied. A simple long tube reactor, with the coupling coil placed at the middle of the tube and gas entrance and exit at the respective ends, was used. Deposition rates and the chemical nature of the polymer (as revealed by ESCA spectra and surface energy studies) are obtained as a function of location in the reactor tube with respect to the coupling coil and of applied energy per unit mass of tetrafluoroethylene (W/FM). It was found that a fluorine poor polymer, containing considerable carbon–oxygen bonds (after contact with air), is obtained at all locations at high W/FM. When a low W/FM is utilized, such a fluorine‐poor polymer is also obtained at locations downstream from the coupling coil (the location of the highest energy density) in the reactor. In the latter case a fluorine‐rich polymer containing very little oxygen is formed upstream from the coil. The polymer deposition rate distribution is also considerably broader in a high W/FM plasma than when low W/FM is used. These results are in agreement with earlier studies indicating that fluorine abstraction and decomposition due to fluorine etching occur when the energy density, as expressed by W/FM, is high. Copyright © 1979 John Wiley & Sons, Inc

Plasma Polymerization Of Tetrafluoroethylene. III. Capacitive Audio Frequency (10 KHz) And AC Discharge

The plasma polymerization of tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) is studied in a capacitively coupled system with internal electrodes using a 10 kHz (af) and a 60 Hz (ac) source. The emphasis is on identifying conditions that are compatible with continuous coating of plasma polymer on a substrate moving through the center of the interelectrode gap. Operation at a pressure below 100 mTorr is most favorable for deposition of a substantial portion of the plasma polymer on this substrate. Plasma polymer deposited in this way is characterized by ESCA and by deposition rate data and compared to that deposited using rf power in both capacitively and inductively coupled systems. The polymers found in all systems are broadly similar and completely different from conventional poly(TFE). The distribution of power density in the various systems has been identified and compared. This is accomplished by using the known susceptibility of fluorine‐containing polymers (including plasma polymer) to a high‐power plasma as a probe of plasma power density within the interelectrode gap in the capacitively coupled system. The most active zone of the af or ac plasma is close to the electrode at a plasma pressure of approximately 40 mTorr. The use of a magnetic field leads to an intense localized glow such that etching by active fluorine atoms occurs at a specific locus on the electrode. By contrast, the low‐pressure rf capacitively coupled glow discharge is the mildest of those investigated, and its most active zone is further from the electrode and much more diffusely localized by a magnetic field. Copyright © 1979 John Wiley & Sons, Inc

Plasma Polymerization Of Tetrafluoroethylene. II. Capacitive Radio Frequency Discharge

The plasma polymerization of tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) is studied in a capacitively coupled system with internal electrodes using radio frequency (13.56 MHz) power. The emphasis is on identifying conditions that are compatible with continuous coating of plasma polymer on a substrate moving through the center of the interelectrode gap. At high pressure (500 mTorr), deposition of plasma polymer is primarily on the electrodes rather than on a substrate placed midway between electrodes. Glow is observed in only part of the interelectrode gap at low powers and fills the gap only at high power levels. The use of a magnetic field effects barely discernible changes. Low‐pressure (below 100 mTorr) operation is more favorable for deposition of a substantial portion of the plasma polymer on a substrate placed midway between electrodes. The plasma polymer deposited at low pressure is characterized by ESCA and deposition rate data and compared to that deposited in an inductively coupled system. The polymers formed in both systems are broadly similar and completely different from conventional poly(TFE). Subtle system‐dependent differences are identified. The known susceptibility of fluorine‐containing polymers (including plasma polymer) to a high‐power plasma has been used as a probe of plasma power density within the interelectrode gap in the capacitively coupled system. Without magnets the most active zone of the plasma is in the center of the interelectrode gap. The use of a magnetic field moves this active zone closer to the electrodes and leads to a more efficient coupling of energy to a polymerizing glow discharge. Copyright © 1979 John Wiley & Sons, Inc

Beewild' bundleflower, a new summer-growing perennial legume for central and south Texas and Mexico

Last updated: 10/19/201

Attitudes and Performance: An Analysis of Russian Workers

This paper investigates the relationship between locus of control and performance among Russian employees, using survey data collected at 28 workplaces in 2002 in Taganrog and at 47 workplaces in 2003 in Ekaterinburg. We develop a measure that allows us to categorize the Russian employees participating in our survey as exhibiting an internal or external locus of control. We then assess the extent to which there are significant differences between “internals” and “externals” in work-related attitudes that may affect performance. In particular, we focus on (1) attitudes about outcomes associated with hard work, (2) level of job satisfaction, (3) expectation of receiving a desired reward, and (4) loyalty to and involvement with one’s organization. In each case we identify where gender and generational differences emerge. Our main objective is to determine whether Russian employees who exhibit an internal locus of control perform better than employees with an external locus of control. Our performance measures include earnings, expected promotions, and assessments of the quantity and quality of work in comparison to others at the same organization doing a similar job. Controlling for a variety of worker characteristics, we find that (1) individuals who exhibit an internal locus of control perform better, but this result is not always statistically significant; (2) even among “internals,” women earn significantly less than men and have a much lower expectation of promotion; (3) even among “internals,” experience with unemployment has a negative influence on performance.http://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/40144/3/wp758.pd

A qualitative study on the acceptability and preference of three types of long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets in Solomon Islands: implications for malaria elimination

Background. In March 2008, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu governments raised the goal of their National Malaria Programmes from control to elimination. Vector control measures, such as indoor residual spraying (IRS) and long-lasting insecticidal bed nets (LLINs) are key integral components of this programme. Compliance with these interventions is dependent on their acceptability and on the socio-cultural context of the local population. These factors need to be investigated locally prior to programme implementation. Method. Twelve focus group discussions (FGDs) were carried out in Malaita and Temotu Provinces, Solomon Islands in 2008. These discussions explored user perceptions of acceptability and preference for three brands of long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets (LLINs) and identified a number of barriers to their proper and consistent use. Results. Mosquito nuisance and perceived threat of malaria were the main determinants of bed net use. Knowledge of malaria and the means to prevent it were not sufficient to guarantee compliance with LLIN use. Factors such as climate, work and evening social activities impact on the use of bed nets, particularly in men. LLIN acceptability plays a varying role in compliance with their use in villages involved in this study. Participants in areas of reported high and year round mosquito nuisance and perceived threat of malaria reported LLIN use regardless of any reported unfavourable characteristics. Those in areas of low or seasonal mosquito nuisance were more likely to describe the unfavourable characteristics of LLINs as reasons for their intermittent or non-compliance. The main criterion for LLIN brand acceptability was effectiveness in preventing mosquito bites and malaria. Discussions highlighted considerable confusion around LLIN care and washing which may be impacting on their effectiveness and reducing their acceptability in Solomon Islands. Conclusion. Providing LLINs that are acceptable will be more important for improving compliance in areas of low or seasonal mosquito nuisance and malaria transmission. The implications of these findings on malaria elimination in Solomon Islands are discussed

Configuring Balanced Scorecards for Measuring Health System Performance: Evidence from 5 Years' Evaluation in Afghanistan

Anbrasi Edward and colleagues report the results of a balanced scorecard performance system used to examine 29 key performance indicators over a 5-year period in Afghanistan, between 2004 and 2008

Conflict in the Indian Kashmir Valley II: psychosocial impact

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: India and Pakistan have disputed ownership of the Kashmir Valley region for many years, resulting in high level of exposure to violence among the civilian population of Kashmir (India). A survey was done as part of routine programme evaluation to assess confrontation with violence and its consequences on mental health, health service usage, and socio-economic functioning. METHODS: We undertook a two-stage cluster household survey in two districts of Kashmir (India) using questionnaires adapted from other conflict areas. Analysis was stratified for gender. RESULTS: Over one-third of respondents (n=510) were found to have symptoms of psychological distress (33.3%, CI: 28.3-38.4); women scored significantly higher (OR 2.5; CI: 1.7-3.6). A third of respondents had contemplated suicide (33.3%, CI: 28.3-38.4). Feelings of insecurity were associated with higher levels of psychological distress for both genders (males: OR 2.4, CI: 1.3-4.4; females: OR 1.9, CI: 1.1-3.3). Among males, violation of modesty, (OR 3.3, CI: 1.6-6.8), forced displacement, (OR 3.5, CI: 1.7-7.1), and physical disability resulting from violence (OR 2.7, CI: 1.2-5.9) were associated with greater levels of psychological distress; for women, risk factors for psychological distress included dependency on others for daily living (OR 2.4, CI: 1.3-4.8), the witnessing of killing (OR 1.9, CI: 1.1-3.4), and torture (OR 2.1, CI: 1.2-3.7). Self-rated poor health (male: OR 4.4, CI: 2.4-8.1; female: OR 3.4, CI: 2.0-5.8) and being unable to work (male: OR 6.7, CI: 3.5-13.0; female: OR 2.6, CI: 1.5-4.4) were associated with mental distress. CONCLUSIONS: The ongoing conflict exacts a huge toll on the communities' mental well-being. We found high levels of psychological distress that impacts on daily life and places a burden on the health system. Ongoing feelings of personal vulnerability (not feeling safe) were associated with high levels of psychological distress. Community mental health programmes should be considered as a way reduce the pressure on the health system and improve socio-economic functioning of those suffering from mental health problems