bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Logistic Regression Analysis of Customer Satisfaction Data
Authors: Lawson Cathy , Montgomery Douglas C.
Published: May 2006

Variation exists in all processes. Significant work has been done to identify and remove sources of variation in manufacturing processes resulting in large returns for companies. However, business process optimization is an area that has a large potential return for a company. Business processes can be difficult to optimize due to the nature of the output variables associated with them. Business processes tend to have output variables that are binary, nominal or ordinal. Examples of these types of output include whether a particular event occurred, a customer's color preference for a new product and survey questions that assess the extent of the survey respondent's agreement with a particular statement. Output variables that are binary, nominal or ordinal cannot be modeled using ordinary least‐squares regression. Logistic regression is a method used to model data where the output is binary, nominal or ordinal. This article provides a review of logistic regression and demonstrates its use in modeling data from a business process involving customer feedback. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevalence and risk factors for Giardia and coccidia species of pet cats in 2003–2004
Authors: De Santis-Kerr Andrea C. , Raghavan Malathi , Glickman Nita W. , Caldanaro Richard J. , Moore George E. , Lewis Hugh B. , Schantz Peter M. , Glickman Lawrence T.
Published: May 2006

Prevalence and risk factors for feline coccidia and Giardia species infections were estimated for cats visiting 434 Banfield hospitals in 40 states in 2003–2004. Evaluated were 631,021 cats making 1,456,712 office visits (encounters) and having 211,105 fecal examinations. The overall fecal prevalences of coccidia and Giardia species were 1.4% and 0.58%, respectively. Cats at increased risk of coccidia infection were under 4 years of age, intact, and seen during the summer, fall, and spring months compared to winter. Cats at increased risk of Giardia species infection were under 4 years of age. Those at decreased risk were mixed breed and seen during the summer, fall, and spring. The highest regional risk of coccidia and Giardia species infection was for cats in the East South Central region and Mountain region, respectively, compared to the South Pacific region.
Foreign body sensation in the throat due to displacement of the superior cornu of the thyroid cartilage: two cases and a literature review
Authors: Nadig S K , Uppal S , Back G W , Coatesworth A P , Grace A R H
Published: May 2006

The sensation of a foreign body in the throat when swallowing is a common and very discomforting symptom for those who experience it. Common causes are gastroesophageal reflux disease and possibly upper oesophageal dysmotility. This complaint may be dismissed as psychogenic when a cause for the problem is not readily apparent.

We present two cases in which the patient had a foreign body sensation in the throat, associated with a dry swallow. The most helpful diagnostic procedure was careful examination of the hypopharynx and neck and flexible fibre-optic rhinolaryngoscopy. One case was treated with surgery of the neck and larynx to trim the medially projecting superior cornu of the thyroid cartilage. Surgery was successful in eliminating the symptoms.

Although an uncommon finding, our experience is that symptoms due to a medially displaced thyroid cornu should be considered in the differential diagnosis as an important and surgically correctable cause of persistent foreign body sensation at the hyoid level in the neck.
Late Pliocene vegetation and climate in Namibia (southern Africa) derived from palynology of ODP Site 1082
Authors: Dupont L. M.
Published: May 2006

The present‐day condition of bipolar glaciation characterized by rapid and large climate fluctuations began at the end of the Pliocene with the intensification of the Northern Hemisphere continental glaciations. The global cooling steps of the late Pliocene have been documented in numerous studies of Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) sites from the Northern Hemisphere. However, the interactions between oceans and between land and ocean during these cooling steps are poorly known. In particular, data from the Southern Hemisphere are lacking. Therefore I investigated the pollen of ODP Site 1082 in the southeast Atlantic Ocean in order to obtain a high‐resolution record of vegetation change in Namibia between 3.4 and 1.8 Ma. Four phases of vegetation development are inferred that are connected to global climate change. (1) Before 3 Ma, extensive, rather open grass‐rich savannahs with mopane trees existed in Namibia, but the extension of desert and semidesert vegetation was still restricted. (2) Increase of winter rainfall dependent Renosterveld‐like vegetation occurred between 3.1 and 2.2 Ma connected to strong advection of polar waters along the Namibian coast and a northward shift of the Polar Front Zone in the Southern Ocean. (3) Climatically induced fluctuations became stronger between 2.7 and 2.2 Ma and semiarid areas extended during glacial periods probably as the result of an increased pole‐equator thermal gradient and consequently globally enhanced atmospheric circulation. (4) Aridification and climatic variability further increased after 2.2 Ma, when the Polar Front Zone migrated southward and the influence of Atlantic moisture brought by the westerlies to southern Africa declined. It is concluded that the positions of the frontal systems in the Southern Ocean which determine the locations of the high‐pressure cells over the South Atlantic and the southern Indian Ocean have a strong influence on the climate of southern Africa in contrast to the climate of northwest and central Africa, which is dominated by the Saharan low‐pressure cell.
Thermochronologic evaluation of postcollision extension in the Anatolide orogen, western Turkey
Authors: Thomson Stuart N. , Ring Uwe
Published: May 2006

To better understand the driving mechanisms behind the transition from collision to extension in a convergent orogen, data from multiple low‐temperature thermochronometers were obtained from the Simav detachment fault (SDF), the earliest developed major extensional structure recognized in the western Anatolide orogen of western Turkey. Twenty‐two zircon fission track (FT), 26 apatite FT, 12 apatite (U‐Th)/He ages, and 26 apatite FT track length analyses are presented. The data establish that the SDF was a major extensional fault active between ∼25 and ∼19 Ma. The coincidence in timing of magmatism with cessation of SDF activity implies the detachment became locked owing to doming induced by magma emplacement. Zircon FT ages away from the influence of Miocene magmatism record rapid footwall cooling between ∼25 and ∼21 Ma at a slip rate of up to ∼15 km/Myr and demonstrate that active ductile deformation along the SDF migrated northward with time. Apatite FT ages from the footwall of the SDF are spatially invariant over >100 km and consistently ∼2–3 Myr younger than the zircon fission track ages from the same samples. These data are consistent with a regional, but relatively rapid erosion‐linked cooling phase that removed ∼2–3 km of overburden following cessation of SDF activity but before deposition of sedimentary rocks on the detachment surface at 16.4 Ma. Postcollision extension of the Anatolide orogen with development of the SDF can be best explained as the result of postcollision magmatism and thermal weakening of the crust inducing the extensional reactivation of an earlier major out‐of‐sequence thrust.
Increase of shear wave velocity before the 1998 eruption of Merapi volcano (Indonesia)
Authors: Wegler U. , Lühr B.‐G. , Snieder R. , Ratdomopurbo A.
Published: May 2006

We infer temporal changes in the elastic properties of the edifice of Merapi volcano (Java, Indonesia) before its eruption in 1998 by analyzing multiply scattered elastic waves excited by a repeatable controlled seismic source. A pre‐eruptive increase of shear wave velocity, which correlates well with pre‐eruptive seismicity and dome‐growth is revealed. The method can be used as a “pressure‐gauge” for pressure changes inside of volcanoes, because increasing pressures in rocks are known to cause proportionally increasing elastic wave velocities.
Infrared multiphoton ionization of superhot C60: Experiment and model calculations
Authors: Bekkerman Anatoly , Kolodney Eli , von Helden Gert , Sartakov Boris , van Heijnsbergen Deniz , Meijer Gerard
Published: May 2006

We address, both experimentally and theoretically, the issue of infrared (IR) resonance enhanced multiphoton ionization (IR-REMPI) and thermally induced redshifts of IR absorption lines in a very large and highly vibrationally excited molecular system. Isolated superhot C60 molecules with well defined and variable average vibrational energy in the range of 9–19eV, effusing out of a constant flux thermal source, are excited and ionized after the absorption of multiple (500–800) infrared photons in the 450–1800cm−1 spectral energy range. Recording the mass-selected ion signal as a function of IR wavelength gives well resolved IR-REMPI spectra, with zero off-resonance background signal. An enhancement of the ion signal of about a factor of 10 is observed when the temperature is increased from 1200to1800K under otherwise identical conditions. A pronounced temperature dependent redshift of some of the IR absorption lines is observed. The observations are found to be in good agreement with a model which is based on the sequential absorption of single photons, always followed by instantaneous vibrational energy redistribution. The mass spectra (C60+ fragmentation pattern) are found to be strongly excitation wavelength dependent. Extensive fragmentation down to C32+ is observed following the absorption of 1350–1400cm−1 as well as 1500–1530cm−1 photons while negligible fragmentation is observed when exciting around 520cm−1.
Enhanced emission efficiency in organic light-emitting diodes using deoxyribonucleic acid complex as an electron blocking layer
Authors: Hagen J. A. , Li W. , Steckl A. J. , Grote J. G.
Published: May 2006

Enhanced electroluminescent efficiency using a deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) complex as an electron blocking (EB) material has been demonstrated in both green- and blue-emitting organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). The resulting so-called BioLEDs showed a maximum luminous efficiency of 8.2 and 0.8cd∕A, respectively. The DNA-based BioLEDs were as much as 10× more efficient and 30× brighter than their OLED counterparts.
Directed organization of gold nanoclusters on silver nanowires: A step forward in heterostructure assembly
Authors: Sharma Jadab , Vivek J. P. , Vijayamohanan Kunjukrishna P. , Singh Poonam , Dharmadhikari C. V.
Published: May 2006

We investigate the directed assembly of tridecylamine protected gold nanoclusters of 4–5nm size on functionalized silver nanowires of 55–60nm diameter and the electron transfer behavior of this integrated structure using transmission electron microscopy, non-contact atomic force microscopy, and scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy. Linear I-V for bare silver nanowire suggests metallic behavior but high tunnel resistance indicates presence of insulating layer on the surface. Identical I-Vs obtained for isolated gold nanoparticle and heterostructure suggests that electron transport across nanowires in the latter is governed by gold nanoparticles in contrast to expected ballistic or diffusive transport along their length.
Mobility edge in hydrogenated amorphous carbon
Authors: Cherkashinin G. , Ambacher O. , Schiffer T. , Schmidt G.
Published: May 2006

Optical and electronic properties of plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposited diamondlike amorphous carbon (a-C:H and a-C1−xSix:H) films were studied by photothermal deflection spectroscopy and the spectral photocurrent method. Two different regimes of photoconductivity in the diamondlike carbon films have been detected. The carrier mobility due to the σ-σ* bands is found to be 1–2 orders of magnitude higher than that due to the π-π* transitions. The σ-σ* mobility edge of diamondlike hydrogenated amorphous carbon is equal to 5.3±0.1eV and appears to be closely correlated with the band gap of diamond. We have also shown that the mobility edge in diamondlike amorphous carbon is not associated with its band gap. The optical band gap of diamondlike amorphous carbon films depends on the sp2 phase content as already reported by Robertson [Phys. Rev. B 53, 16302 (1996)]. However, the mobility edge is not influenced by either the Si doping level, the film thickness, or the ion impact energy during deposition.
Low-frequency normal modes that describe allosteric transitions in biological nanomachines are robust to sequence variations
Authors: Zheng Wenjun , Brooks Bernard R. , Thirumalai D.
Published: May 2006

By representing the high-resolution crystal structures of a number of enzymes using the elastic network model, it has been shown that only a few low-frequency normal modes are needed to describe the large-scale domain movements that are triggered by ligand binding. Here we explore a link between the nearly invariant nature of the modes that describe functional dynamics at the mesoscopic level and the large evolutionary sequence variations at the residue level. By using a structural perturbation method (SPM), which probes the residue-specific response to perturbations (or mutations), we identify a sparse network of strongly conserved residues that transmit allosteric signals in three structurally unrelated biological nanomachines, namely, DNA polymerase, myosin motor, and the
Escherichia coli
chaperonin. Based on the response of every mode to perturbations, which are generated by interchanging specific sequence pairs in a multiple sequence alignment, we show that the functionally relevant low-frequency modes are most robust to sequence variations. Our work shows that robustness of dynamical modes at the mesoscopic level is encoded in the structure through a sparse network of residues that transmit allosteric signals.
Loss of Siglec expression on T lymphocytes during human evolution
Authors: Nguyen Dzung H. , Hurtado-Ziola Nancy , Gagneux Pascal , Varki Ajit
Published: May 2006

We report here that human T cells give much stronger proliferative responses to specific activation via the T cell receptor (TCR) than those from chimpanzees, our closest evolutionary relatives. Nonspecific activation using phytohemagglutinin was robust in chimpanzee T cells, indicating that the much lower response to TCR simulation is not due to any intrinsic inability to respond to an activating stimulus. CD33-related Siglecs are inhibitory signaling molecules expressed on most immune cells and are thought to down-regulate cellular activation pathways via cytosolic immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs. Among human immune cells, T lymphocytes are a striking exception, expressing little to none of these molecules. In stark contrast, we find that T lymphocytes from chimpanzees as well as the other closely related “great apes” (bonobos, gorillas, and orangutans) express several CD33-related Siglecs on their surfaces. Thus, human-specific loss of T cell Siglec expression occurred after our last common ancestor with great apes, potentially resulting in an evolutionary difference with regard to inhibitory signaling. We confirmed this by studying Siglec-5, which is prominently expressed on chimpanzee lymphocytes, including CD4 T cells. Ab-mediated clearance of Siglec-5 from chimpanzee T cells enhanced TCR-mediated activation. Conversely, primary human T cells and Jurkat cells transfected with Siglec-5 become less responsive; i.e., they behave more like chimpanzee T cells. This human-specific loss of T cell Siglec expression associated with T cell hyperactivity may help explain the strikingly disparate prevalence and severity of T cell-mediated diseases such as AIDS and chronic active hepatitis between humans and chimpanzees.
Development of NG2 neural progenitor cells requires
Olig
gene function
Authors: Ligon Keith L. , Kesari Santosh , Kitada Masaaki , Sun Tao , Arnett Heather A. , Alberta John A. , Anderson David J. , Stiles Charles D. , Rowitch David H.
Published: May 2006

In the adult central nervous system, two distinct populations of glial cells expressing the chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan NG2 have been described: bipolar progenitor cells and more differentiated “synantocytes.” These cells have diverse neurological functions, including critical roles in synaptic transmission, repair, and regeneration. Despite their potential importance, the genetic factors that regulate NG2 cell development are poorly understood, and the relationship of synantocytes to the oligodendroglial lineage, in particular, remains controversial. Here, we show that >90% of embryonic and adult NG2 cells express Olig2, a basic helix–loop–helix transcription factor required for oligodendrocyte lineage specification. Analysis of mice lacking Olig function demonstrates a failure of NG2 cell development at embryonic and perinatal stages that can be rescued by addition of a transgene containing the human OLIG2 locus. These findings show a general requirement for Olig function in NG2 cell development and highlight further roles for Olig transcription factors in neural progenitor cells.
V1a vasopressin receptors maintain normal blood pressure by regulating circulating blood volume and baroreflex sensitivity
Authors: Koshimizu Taka-aki , Nasa Yoshihisa , Tanoue Akito , Oikawa Ryo , Kawahara Yuji , Kiyono Yasushi , Adachi Tetsuya , Tanaka Toshiki , Kuwaki Tomoyuki , Mori Toyoki , Takeo Satoshi , Okamura Hitoshi , Tsujimoto Gozoh
Published: May 2006

Arginine-vasopressin (AVP) is a hormone that is essential for both osmotic and cardiovascular homeostasis, and exerts important physiological regulation through three distinct receptors, V1a, V1b, and V2. Although AVP is used clinically as a potent vasoconstrictor (V1a receptor-mediated) in patients with circulatory shock, the physiological role of vasopressin V1a receptors in blood pressure (BP) homeostasis is ill-defined. In this study, we investigated the functional roles of the V1a receptor in cardiovascular homeostasis using gene targeting. The basal BP of conscious mutant mice lacking the V1a receptor gene (V1a
−/−
) was significantly (
P
< 0.001) lower compared to the wild-type mice (V1a
+/+
) without a notable change in heart rate. There was no significant alteration in cardiac functions as assessed by echocardiogram in the mutant mice. AVP-induced vasopressor responses were abolished in the mutant mice; rather, AVP caused a decrease in BP, which occurred in part through V2 receptor-mediated release of nitric oxide from the vascular endothelium. Arterial baroreceptor reflexes were markedly impaired in mutant mice, consistent with a loss of V1a receptors in the central area of baroreflex control. Notably, mutant mice showed a significant 9% reduction in circulating blood volume. Furthermore, mutant mice had normal plasma AVP levels and a normal AVP secretory response, but had significantly lower adrenocortical responsiveness to adrenocorticotropic hormone. Taken together, these results indicate that the V1a receptor plays an important role in normal resting arterial BP regulation mainly by its regulation of circulating blood volume and baroreflex sensitivity.
Medicare prescription drug coverage: Consumer information and preferences
Authors: Winter Joachim , Balza Rowilma , Caro Frank , Heiss Florian , Jun Byung-hill , Matzkin Rosa , McFadden Daniel
Published: May 2006

We investigate prescription drug use, and information and enrollment intentions for the new Medicare Part D drug insurance program, using a sample of Medicare-eligible subjects surveyed before open enrollment began for this program. We find that, despite the complexity of competing plans offered by private insurers under Part D, a majority of the Medicare population had information on this program and a substantial majority planned to enroll. We find that virtually all elderly, even those with no current prescription drug use, can expect to benefit from enrollment in a Part D Standard plan at the low premiums available in the current market. However, there is a significant risk that many eligible seniors, particularly low-income elderly with poor health or cognitive impairment, will make poor enrollment and plan choices.
Corticotropin-releasing hormone induces skin vascular permeability through a neurotensin-dependent process
Authors: Donelan Jill , Boucher William , Papadopoulou Nikoletta , Lytinas Michael , Papaliodis Dean , Dobner Paul , Theoharides Theoharis C.
Published: May 2006

Many skin disorders are associated with increased numbers of activated mast cells and are worsened by stress; however, the mechanism underlying these processes is not understood. Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is secreted under stress from the hypothalamus, but also in the skin, where it induces mast cell activation and vascular permeability. We investigated the effect of CRH in a number of animal models by using i.v. Evans blue extravasation as a marker of vascular permeability. Intradermal CRH is among the most potent peptides at 100 nM, its effect being nearly comparable to that of neurotensin (NT). Pretreatment of skin injection sites with the NT receptor antagonist SR48692 blocks CRH-induced vascular permeability, which is diminished in NT−/− mice, implying that NT is necessary for the effect of CRH. CRH and NT precursor mRNA are shown to be expressed in both dorsal root ganglia and skin, whereas the latter also expresses mRNA for prohormone convertase 5, an enzyme that cleaves pro-NT into its active form. We also show that the effect of both CRH and NT is absent in W/Wvmast cell-deficient mice; however, only a fraction of skin mast cells express CRH receptors, as shown by FACS analysis of CRH receptor (CRHR) and c-kitdouble-positive disaggregated mouse skin mast cells. These findings suggest that CRH induces skin vascular permeability through NT acting on mast cells and that both peptides should be considered in the pathogenesis of skin disorders exacerbated by stress.
Stable time filtering of strongly unstable spatially extended systems
Authors: Grote Marcus J. , Majda Andrew J.
Published: May 2006

Many contemporary problems in science involve making predictions based on partial observation of extremely complicated spatially extended systems with many degrees of freedom and with physical instabilities on both large and small scale. Various new ensemble filtering strategies have been developed recently for these applications, and new mathematical issues arise. Because ensembles are extremely expensive to generate, one such issue is whether it is possible under appropriate circumstances to take long time steps in an explicit difference scheme and violate the classical Courant–Friedrichs–Lewy (CFL)-stability condition yet obtain stable accurate filtering by using the observations. These issues are explored here both through elementary mathematical theory, which provides simple guidelines, and the detailed study of a prototype model. The prototype model involves an unstable finite difference scheme for a convection–diffusion equation, and it is demonstrated below that appropriate observations can result in stable accurate filtering of this strongly unstable spatially extended system.
Evidence that feedback inhibition of NAD kinase controls responses to oxidative stress
Authors: Grose Julianne H. , Joss Lisa , Velick Sidney F. , Roth John R.
Published: May 2006

Formation of NADP
+
from NAD
+
is catalyzed by NAD kinase (NadK; EC 2.7.1.23). Evidence is presented that NadK is the only NAD kinase of
Salmonella enterica
and is essential for growth. NadK is inhibited allosterically by NADPH and NADH. Without effectors, NadK exists as an equilibrium mixture of dimers and tetramers (
K
D
= 1.0 ± 0.8 mM) but is converted entirely to tetramers in the presence of the inhibitor NADPH. Comparison of NadK kinetic parameters with pool sizes of NADH and NADPH suggests that NadK is substantially inhibited during normal growth and, thus, can increase its activity greatly in response to temporary drops in the pools of inhibitory NADH and NADPH. The primary inhibitor is NADPH during aerobic growth and NADH during anaerobic growth. A model is proposed in which variation of NadK activity is central to the adjustment of pyridine nucleotide pools in response to changes in aeration, oxidative stress, and UV irradiation. It is suggested that each of these environmental factors causes a decrease in the level of reduced pyridine nucleotides, activates NadK, and increases production of NADP(H) at the expense of NAD(H). Activation of NadK may constitute a defensive response that resists loss of protective NADPH.
Suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 limits protection of leukemia inhibitory factor receptor signaling against central demyelination
Authors: Emery Ben , Cate Holly S. , Marriott Mark , Merson Tobias , Binder Michele D. , Snell Cameron , Soo Pik Ying , Murray Simon , Croker Ben , Zhang Jian-Guo , Alexander Warren S. , Cooper Helen , Butzkueven Helmut , Kilpatrick Trevor J.
Published: May 2006

Enhancement of oligodendrocyte survival through activation of leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR) signaling is a candidate therapeutic strategy for demyelinating disease. However, in other cell types, LIFR signaling is under tight negative regulation by the intracellular protein suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3). We, therefore, postulated that deletion of the SOCS3 gene in oligodendrocytes would promote the beneficial effects of LIFR signaling in limiting demyelination. By studying wild-type and LIF-knockout mice, we established that SOCS3 expression by oligodendrocytes was induced by the demyelinative insult, that this induction depended on LIF, and that endogenously produced LIF was likely to be a key determinant of the CNS response to oligodendrocyte loss. Compared with wild-type controls, oligodendrocyte-specific SOCS3 conditional-knockout mice displayed enhanced c-
fos
activation and exogenous LIF-induced phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3. Moreover, these SOCS3-deficient mice were protected against cuprizone-induced oligodendrocyte loss relative to wild-type animals. These results indicate that modulation of SOCS3 expression could facilitate the endogenous response to CNS injury.
Rat adipocyte apoptosis induced by TNF-α
Authors: Ya-Qiu Lin , Rui-Wen Li , Chao Sun , Guo-Zhu Chen , Yong-Qing Yang , De-Lian Meng , Gong-She Yang
Published: May 2006

The effects of different concentrations of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) on rat adipocyte apoptosis were detected by optical microscopy, agarose gel electrophoresis and flow cytometry methods. The morphological changes of rat adipocyte apoptosis induced by TNF-α correlated linearly with the concentration of TNF-α, ranging from 5 to 20 ng/ml. High concentrations of TNF-α induced more obvious apoptosis. Significant morphological changes of rat adipocytes treated with 5 ng/ml TNF-α were noticed, but DNA ladders did not appear in the DNA electrophoresis analysis, i.e. morphological changes occurred earlier than the biochemical changes. TNF-α induced apoptosis in the rat adipocyte in a dose-dependent manner. The induced apoptotic effect of 5, 10, 15 and 20 ng/ml TNF-α was significantly different (P0.01), but the effect among 10, 15 and 20 ng/ml TNF-α treatments was not significantly different (P0.05). Thus the optimum concentration of TNF-α for inducing apoptosis was 10 ng/ml.
Molecular regulation of copper excretion in the liver
Authors: Wijmenga Cisca , Klomp Leo W. J.
Published: May 2006

Cu is an essential nutrient that is required for a broad range of cellular and molecular processes. Mammals have efficient systems to control Cu homeostasis that operate at the level of controlling uptake, distribution, sequestration and excretion of Cu. The study of diseases associated with disturbed Cu homeostasis has greatly enhanced our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in Cu metabolism. In man the liver is responsible for excreting excess Cu from the body by means of biliary secretion. Wilson disease is a severe human disorder characterized by Cu accumulation in the liver as a result of a deficiency in biliary Cu secretion. This disorder is caused by mutations in the gene that encodes a Cu-transporting P-type ATPase (ATP7B). TheMURR1gene was identified recently, and it was hypothesized that this gene is also essential for biliary Cu excretion and is presumed to act downstream of ATP7B.MURR1is mutated in canine Cu toxicosis, a disorder with phenotypic characteristics similar to those of Wilson disease.MURR1encodes a protein that is of unknown function and is without detectable sequence homology to known proteins. MURR1 is readily detected in all tissues and cell types, suggesting that it may exhibit a pleiotropic function in different organs, which may or may not be exclusively linked to Cu homeostasis. The use of genetic, biochemical and genomic tools, as well as the development of appropriate models in organisms other than dog, will allow the elucidation of the molecular and cellular function of MURR1 in relation to hepatic Cu homeostasis and biliary Cu excretion.
The c-FLIP–NH2 terminus (p22-FLIP) induces NF-κB activation
Authors: Golks Alexander , Brenner Dirk , Krammer Peter H. , Lavrik Inna N.
Published: May 2006

c-FLIP proteins (isoforms: c-FLIPL, c-FLIPS, and c-FLIPR) play an essential role in the regulation of death receptor–induced apoptosis. Here, we demonstrate that the cytoplasmic NH2-terminal procaspase-8 cleavage product of c-FLIP (p22-FLIP) found in nonapoptotic malignant cells, primary T and B cells, and mature dendritic cells (DCs) strongly induces nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) activity by interacting with the IκB kinase (IKK) complex via the IKKγ subunit. Thus, in addition to inhibiting apoptosis by binding to the death-inducing signaling complex, our data demonstrate a novel mechanism by which c-FLIP controls NF-κB activation and life/death decisions in lymphocytes and DCs.
ASEtrap: A biological method for speeding up the exploration of spliceomes
Authors: Thill Gilbert , Castelli Vanina , Pallud Sophie , Salanoubat Marcel , Wincker Patrick , de la Grange Pierre , Auboeuf Didier , Schächter Vincent , Weissenbach Jean
Published: May 2006

Alternative splicing (AS) of pre-messenger RNA is a major mechanism for generating protein diversity from a limited number of genes in higher eukaryotes, and it constitutes a central mode of genetic regulation. Thus, efficient methods are needed to systematically identify new AS events at a genomic scale across different tissues, stages of development, and physiological or pathological conditions in order to better understand gene expression. To fulfill this goal, we have designed the ASEtrap, which is a cloning procedure for producing AS libraries that is based on a single-stranded trap consisting of an ssDNA-binding protein. In this paper, we have applied our approach to the construction of an AS library and a Control library from human placenta. By analyzing 9226 and 9999 sequences of the AS and Control libraries, respectively, we show that internal AS events (events that can be identified by the sole resources provided by either the AS or the Control library) and the discovery rate of new AS events measured at early stages of sequencing were nine to 10 times higher in the former than in the latter. Moreover, by performing a search for new AS events within a group of 162 known drug target genes, we identified six new events in six genes, and we observed that they all were discovered exclusively through the AS library. Thus, it appears that ASEtrap has the potential to greatly facilitate the determination of the total complement of splice variants expressed in human, as well as other organisms.
The New Food Bill: A Comment
Authors: Walker David
Published: May 2006

The Government published its long awaited Food Bill in November
1989, which “establishes a number of offences in relation to the
safety of food and the protection of the consumer interest”. Some
of the issues raised are commented on, concentrating in purely general
terms on those proposals which have aroused most interest – the
statutory defences, administration and enforcement.
Sociology and Food Consumption
Authors: Gofton Leslie
Published: May 2006

The important links between sociology, anthropology and the food
industry are discussed in some detail. Lifestyles have seen many changes
over the post‐war years, and these are reflected in numerous ways in
consumption habits. Academic sociology, it is concluded, has much to
offer food researchers, and they will ignore this at their peril.
The Impact of Consumer Acceptance on Trade in Irradiated Foods
Authors: Foster Ann
Published: May 2006

The subject of food irradiation has provoked more reaction, more
debate, more polarised positions among consumer organisations than any
other recent issue in food policy. The contemporary consumer attitudes
towards food irradiation are described, with the arguments for and
against its use. It is argued that in the absence of any positive
message from a respected source for its use the opposition –
political, environmental, ethical, medical – has caused consumer
attitudes to harden.
Microwave Reheating of Convenience Meals
Authors: Dealler Stephen , Rotowa Nathaniel , Lacey Richard
Published: May 2006

Three new microwave ovens that had been “approved” by
the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF) were each used to
heat ten convenience meals. These meals were designed for microwave
reheating and packet instructions were followed exactly. The foods were
inoculated with 10⊃5−10⊃6/g of both S. typhimurium
and L. monocytogenes, and core temperatures and bacterial
numbers were measured before and after heating. Some viable listeria
were still present in 97 per cent of the meals and viable salmonella in
80 per cent after heating. End core temperatures were much lower than
expected with one food only reaching 43°C. The three types of
microwave gave similar results. The reasons for these findings and their
implications are discussed.
1992 and All That!
Authors: Roberts David C.E.
Published: May 2006

The Food Safety Act in the UK will have dramatic effects on the
food industry, but it will appear insignificant against the effects of
the Single European Market. The laws that protect consumers and
manufacturers in individual member states are in danger of being
undermined, unless the EC laws that replace national laws provide
equivalent protection. There is also concern that law enforcement takes
a low priority in some member states. A number of recent legal cases
illustrate that point, as well as historical incidences of food
standards falling when specific restraints are removed, particularly as
regards food content and labelling. A complete rethink is required on
food policy, the law and its enforcement throughout Europe.
How Private Labels Affect Consumer Choice
Authors: Ellis Katrina , Uncles Mark D.
Published: May 2006

The role of private labels in consumer choice is studied by considering two issues: do private labels affect the way people buy within a store, and do they affect the way people choose between stores? The revealed behaviour of consumers is studied, both descriptively and using a very general model of behaviour, the Dirichlet. Some examples are presented which show that within a store, the way consumers buy private labels is similar to the way they buy brands, and that for the buying of a product at different stores, consumers patronise stores with private labels in much the same way as stores without them.
Green Consumerism and the Supermarkets
Authors: Jones Bryn
Published: May 2006

Public concern over environmental issues such as ozone depletion,
water pollution and the use of pesticides has translated into consumer
reluctance to purchase certain products and a willingness to buy
products seen as less harmful. A partnership between the Gateway
super‐market chain and Landbank Environmental Consultancy was developed
to address this concern; and has formulated an environmental strategy
and programme identifying the areas of energy conservation, packaging,
recycling, use of pesticides and countryside protection as priorities
reflecting the nature of its business and resulting in the development
of “environment‐friendly” products.
Public Library Spending and Service Provision in Rural
Scotland
Authors: Midwinter Arthur
Published: May 2006

The links between expenditure and service provision on rural public
libraries in Scotland are analysed, and patterns of provision between
authorities noted. Conclusions are drawn concerning the adequacy of
provision in these areas, the effects of the new community charge and
patterns of public library provision.
Continuing Professional Education for Librarians in Tamil
Nadu
Authors: Gangadhara Rao P. , Ramesh Babu B.
Published: May 2006

The need for continuing professional education (CPE) for librarians
is discussed. The libraries and educational institutions in Tamil Nadu
are briefly examined and attempts at CPE programmes in India are traced.
A draft plan for CPE for librarians in Tamil Nadu is presented and the
New Education Policy of the Government of India and role of the UGC and
staff colleges are highlighted. Obstacles to CPE are listed.
Ownership and Access, Database and OPAC: Present and Future
Opportunities for Academic Libraries
Authors: James Stuart
Published: May 2006

The pattern of provision of academic library and information
services is considered in relation to institutional goals and user
needs. The two fundamental strategies of ownership and access are
explained and their short‐ to medium‐term development examined. The role
of automation in academic libraries is considered, particularly the
development of library databases and subject access to them, all in
relation to external developments and to improved user service.
The Public Library as a Community Resource
Authors: Hendry J.D.
Published: May 2006

The role of local public libraries as a local community resource is
advocated, particularly in the light of current central government
social policies in the UK.
Free Access: Providers and Users of Information ‐Reactions
in a Developing Economy
Authors: Osiobe Stephen A.
Published: May 2006

The international situation of charges for library and information
services and of free access to information is reviewed. A survey is
reported of librarians, faculty staff and students from two universities
and two polytechnics in Nigeria to find their views on the charging of
fees for some library services. Results show a willingness by librarians
to charge and users to pay fees for some services.
Distance Learning – Effienct and Effective but no Panacea
Authors: Coffey John
Published: May 2006

Distance learning is examined and
suggestions are made as to how organisations
can obtain the most from their investment in
this form of study. The importance of
identifying clearly the context in which
learning will take place is highlighted.
Examples are given, as well as comments
from participants.
Non‐formal Education: A Proposed Solution for Graduate Unemployment in Nigeria
Authors: Geo‐Jaja Macleans A.
Published: May 2006

The structural links of non‐formal education to
the world of work and graduate unemployment
in Nigeria are examined. The role of
government′s stop‐gap measures and the
inadequacies of the formal educational
institution are discussed. These policies resulted
in the worsening of graduate unemployment,
labour market segmentation and élite class
formation, while only marginally increasing
employment. Non‐formal education represented a
more meaningful approach to solving graduate
unemployment, and matching skills with job
needs, than the contemporary approach.
The Visually Handicapped: Education and Training for Visually Handicapped Students
Authors: Gould Terence
Published: May 2006

Three examples are given of the work of Queen
Alexandra College for the Blind in Birmingham. A
Commercial Studies course which helps visually
handicapped students to cope in a workplace
environment is described. The students learn to use
office machines and all students have three weeks′
work experience.
Staff Induction Scheme: The Portman Inter‐continental Hotel
Authors: Cayhill Dee
Published: May 2006

Current demographics demonstrate clearly that the number of young
people entering Britain′s job market will be severely reduced in the
near future. Hoteliers rely very heavily on young people entering their
workplace. With the aim of improving retention rates, The Portman
Inter‐Continental Hotel has devised a new induction scheme for all
levels of staff. Extending over a three‐month period, the new modular
programme is an integrated process linking training, management
philosophy, technical systems and operating procedures. Details are
given of the 14 modules. Innovative features are a graduation ceremony
on completion and the appointment of an Induction Facilitator with
responsibility throughout the UK and Benelux regions.
Computer Literacy at the University of Bradford
Authors: Hamburg Lawrence , Helm Paul
Published: May 2006

It would be wrong to assume that incoming undergraduates in the
1990s are already in possession of computer skills. The University of
Bradford has recognised that all students, no matter what their
background or subject area, need basic computer literacy skills not only
to complete their course successfully, but also to be attractive to
industry and commerce on graduation. The Enterprise in Higher Education
(EHE) programme is promoting innovation and changes in traditional
teaching and learning styles. EHE recognises the importance of computers
within this process. At Bradford, this is achieved through the use of
hardware and software provided by the Computerisation Project. The
Bradford approach is to integrate the computer literacy element into all
areas of the curriculum.
Recruitment and performance of TVEI School‐leavers
Authors: Callear Linda
Published: May 2006

Contains findings of a study carried out to explore employers′
views about TVEI school‐leavers and the impact of TVEI on their
employability and career progression, and assesses TVEI school‐leavers
who moved into employment and training at the end of their time in
compulsory education. A relatively small‐scale study, the results are
not necessarily representative of TVEI as a whole though they are
encouraging.
Business Plans for Teaching Entrepreneurial Behaviour
Authors: Kelmar John H.
Published: May 2006

The business plan is shown to be a useful approach to teaching the
application of theoretical concepts to a student population who must
confront the realities of the business world upon graduation. This
concept takes the latent entrepreneur through the rigours of a real‐life
exercise, under the guidance of facilitators having a deft knowledge of
theory and practice. Examples show results which can be expected from
such an approach.
Experiencing Vocational Preparation in England and Germany
Authors: Bynner John
Published: May 2006

To find out how vocational preparation is experienced in England
and Germany 160 young people in Bremen, Paderborn, Swindon and Liverpool
were matched in terms of likely job destinations. From questionnaires
and interview replies in 1988, reveals that the Germans are at least two
years behind their English counterparts in their transition to adult
employment. Young English people claimed more experience than the
Germans of job‐related skills and were more confident about their
futures. Young Germans with more of a “student” view
believed that training was needed to gain skills and were more uncertain
about what would happen after it. The research is continuing.
Developing Teaching and Learning Materials: A Practical Strategy
STRATEGY
Authors: James Dennis
Published: May 2006

Discusses the reappraisal at Leeds Polytechnic of methodology for
developing teaching and learning materials in general, and independent
learning materials in particular. Outlines two models for establishing
production facilities and two models for designing and creating
materials. Discusses the strategy adopted by the Polytechnic, which has
led to the establishment of a staff‐access laboratory. Illustrates how a
lecturer can develop a range of learning resources from word‐processed
notes to fully interactive computer‐based material with integrated
automatic assessment. Reflects on progress to date.
Achieving Quality Standards for Open Learning: BS 5750 at Wolsey Hall
Authors: Newell Peter
Published: May 2006

Briefly reviews the BS 5750 quality standard as applied to an
organization, emphasizing the importance of internal (departmental) as
well as external customers. Emphasizes also that it is absolutely vital
to engage the services of an outside consultant in drawing up a plan, in
order to save time and ensure conformance with the laid down standards.
Highlights finally the all‐important truth that it behoves everyone in
the organization to understand and be committed to quality.
Infusing Management Training into Education: The Young Manager Programme
Authors: Hewitt Malcolm , Phillips Kate
Published: May 2006

Describes the Young Manager Programme, and the approach of a
leading company, Safeway Stores plc, for using this to increase its
education links. Addresses the need for communication and partnership to
make the programme succeed. Discusses the benefits and drawbacks of
using this resource as part of a strategy for education links, along
with the opportunities which it presents.
How Personnel Managers Come to Terms with the Computer
Authors: Hall Laura , Torrington Derek
Published: May 2006

On the basis of studies of 35 personnel managers who had introduced
computerisation and a detailed comprehensive case study of the
introduction of computerisation into the personnel function, the factors
that differentiate adoptors into the categories of “Stars”,
“Radicals”, “Plodders” and
“Beginners” are analysed. The critical role of the personnel
manager in facilitating successful adoption, the role of the computer in
changing the shape of the personnel function, its power and
professionalisation are considered, and finally the challenges it will
present for the personnel department in the future.
Manpower Planning – Where Are We Today?
Authors: Cowling Alan , Walters Mike
Published: May 2006

To what extent have personnel managers
recaptured their enthusiasm for manpower
planning, especially recruitment planning, in the
light of projected demographic change in the
1990s? A survey conducted on behalf of the
Institute of Personnel Management explores the
issue. Its findings are presented and reviewed in
the context of the general state of the art at the
present time. Although in the private sector a
number of major initiatives have been successfully
launched in such areas as training and
development and competitive restructuring, other
areas of manpower planning find only limited
support, and the public sector lags behind the rest
of the field. There exist a few examples of
comprehensive and systematic manpower
planning.
Impact of Technological and Organisational Change
Authors: Ashburner Lynn
Published: May 2006

In many organisations, changes in organisational
structure and the introduction of technology are
occurring simultaneously, impacting upon
personnel in many different ways. The process
of such changes, how they interrelate and how
they affect personnel are discussed, through
examining some of the findings of a recent
research project. It is argued that the interrelating
developments of decentralisation, line
management access to the personnel database and
the use of IT not only affects the relationship of
the personnel function to the line but also
strengthens the position of management in relation
to the workforce. Benefits brought by the
introduction of computerised personnel systems
are related to organisational culture, i.e. the
existing status of the personnel function within
the organisation and the structure of the
organisation, rather than the extent of the use of
computers within it.