bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A role for nephrin, a renal protein, in vertebrate skeletal muscle cell fusion
Authors: Sohn Regina Lee , Huang Ping , Kawahara Genri , Mitchell Matthew , Guyon Jeffrey , Kalluri Raghu , Kunkel Louis M. , Gussoni Emanuela
Published: May 2009

Skeletal muscle is formed via fusion of myoblasts, a well-studied process in
Drosophila
. In vertebrates however, this process is less well understood, and whether there is evolutionary conservation with the proteins studied in flies is under investigation.
Sticks and stones (Sns)
, a cell surface protein found on
Drosophila
myoblasts, has structural homology to nephrin. Nephrin is a protein expressed in kidney that is part of the filtration barrier formed by podocytes. No previous study has established any role for nephrin in skeletal muscle. We show, using two models, zebrafish and mice, that the absence of nephrin results in poorly developed muscles and incompletely fused myotubes, respectively. Although nephrin-knockout (nephrin

KO

) myoblasts exhibit prolonged activation of MAPK/ERK pathway during myogenic differentiation, expression of myogenin does not seem to be altered. Nevertheless, MAPK pathway blockade does not rescue myoblast fusion. Co-cultures of unaffected human fetal myoblasts with nephrin

KO

myoblasts or myotubes restore the formation of mature myotubes; however, the contribution of nephrin

KO

myoblasts is minimal. These studies suggest that nephrin plays a role in secondary fusion of myoblasts into nascent myotubes, thus establishing a possible functional conservation with
Drosophila Sns
.
How Much of CAM Is Based on Research Evidence?
Authors: Ernst Edzard
Published: May 2009

The aim of this article is to provide a preliminary estimate of how much CAM is evidence‐based. For this purpose, I calculated the percentage of 685 treatment/condition pairings evaluated in the “Desktop Guide to Complementary and Alternative Medicine” which are supported by sound data. The resulting figure was 7.4%. For a range of reasons, it might be a gross over‐estimate. Further investigations into this subject are required to arrive at more representative figures.
Seasonal differences in the vertical distribution pattern of Japanese jack mackerel, Trachurus japonicus: changes according to age?
Authors: Nakamura Takeshi , Hamano Akira
Published: May 2009

Nakamura, T., and Hamano, A. 2009. Seasonal differences in the vertical distribution pattern of Japanese jack mackerel, Trachurus japonicus: changes according to age? – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 1289–1295. The Japanese jack mackerel, Trachurus japonicus, is commercially and ecologically one of the most important fishery resources in Japanese waters. A clear understanding of the age-dependent, vertical distribution pattern is important for the effective and sustainable management of this resource. In this study, acoustic surveys were conducted from June to November 2001 in the western Sea of Japan to clarify seasonal differences. The survey area included a number of artificial reefs at depths >100 m. To identify fish species and determine the characteristics of the water column, simultaneous biological sampling and oceanographic surveys were carried out. The vertical distribution of Japanese jack mackerel varied with their age and size and between seasons. In June and July, aggregations of juvenile (age 0; <10 cm in length) Japanese jack mackerel were found in a layer between 20 and 50 m deep associated with a temperature range of 19–21°C. However, the age-0 aggregations were not observed from August to November. Conversely, the age-1+ schools aggregated around the artificial reefs when the temperature was <19°C. It is suggested that there are seasonal differences in the vertical distribution pattern between the early life and adult stages of Japanese jack mackerel. Because of the different vertical distributions of these life stages, acoustic backscatter information is useful for determining the age of the observed fish.
Statistical relationships between the distributions of groundfish and crabs in the eastern Bering Sea and processed returns from a single-beam echosounder
Authors: McConnaughey Robert A. , Syrjala Stephen E.
Published: May 2009

McConnaughey, R. A., and Syrjala, S. E. 2009. Statistical relationships between the distributions of groundfish and crabs in the eastern Bering Sea and processed returns from a single-beam echosounder. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 1425–1432. Groundfish and benthic invertebrates are not randomly distributed over the continental shelf of the eastern Bering Sea (EBS). Annual trawl surveys reveal distributional patterns that vary according to species, and substantial interannual variation in these patterns suggests some degree of environmental control. Quantitative habitat models are developed to explain the distribution and abundance of species in the EBS. Simple models based on readily available data (temperature and depth) are somewhat informative, but offer limited practical value. Earlier research in the EBS indicated that surficial sediments affect the distribution and abundance of groundfish. However, traditional sampling with grabs and cores is impractical over large areas, and an efficient sampling strategy is needed. Echosounders allow surveys of large areas, but it is unknown if they measure the relevant properties of sediments. Seabed echoes from a calibrated, single-beam echosounder were recorded over 17 000 km of trackline covering the EBS shelf. Generalized additive models were used to fit acoustic and other variables to abundance data for ten species. The final models explained 28–77% of the variability in abundances, including a marginal contribution of 2–13% by the acoustic predictors.
A comparison of two surveys of invertebrates at Pacific Ocean islands: the giant clam at Raivavae Island, Australes Archipelago, French Polynesia
Authors: Andréfouët Serge , Friedman Kim , Gilbert Antoine , Remoissenet Georges
Published: May 2009

Andréfouët, S., Friedman, K., Gilbert, A., and Remoissenet, G. 2009. A comparison of two surveys of invertebrates at Pacific Ocean islands: the giant clam at Raivavae Island, Australes Archipelago, French Polynesia. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 1825–1836. An assessment of invertebrate fisheries is currently taking place at several Pacific Ocean islands. The objectives are to obtain either detailed information on certain stocks at limited sites or to assess more broadly a variety of benthic resources across different islands. In French Polynesia, giant clam (Tridacna maxima) populations were surveyed by Service de la Pêche and Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (SPE/IRD). Sampling was optimized to determine stock abundance as a tool to enhance management of the clam fishery. Currently, the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) is investigating throughout the Pacific the status of invertebrate resources; a large-scale study not necessarily establishing a precise stock estimate for resources such as clams, but comparing resource status for several target species using coverage, density, and size measures. Raivavae Island (French Polynesia) was investigated by both programmes and offered an opportunity to verify whether the different sampling schedules provided consistent perspectives of the status of the T. maxima resource. The different strategies that SPE/IRD and SPC adopted resulted in no direct spatial overlap between the locations investigated: nevertheless, the ranges of densities and clam sizes recorded were generally consistent between surveys, and both programmes described similar spatial variation in clam presence at an island scale. SPE/IRD provided a detailed map of clam densities per habitat using a high-resolution satellite image, which yielded an estimated standing stock of 8.16 ± 0.91 million clams, representing a flesh biomass of 354 ± 41 t. SPC's study delivered coverage, density, and clam length, but no stock estimate. Unavailable from SPE/IRD, SPC also described the status of a variety of important invertebrate species targeted by fishers in the Pacific. Both programmes independently made similar fishery management recommendations. The relative merits and complementarities of the two approaches in the context of Pacific Ocean Island resource management are discussed.
The Effect of Ambiguous Data on Phylogenetic Estimates Obtained by Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference
Authors: Lemmon Alan R. , Brown Jeremy M. , Stanger-Hall Kathrin , Lemmon Emily Moriarty
Published: May 2009

Although an increasing number of phylogenetic data sets are incomplete, the effect of ambiguous data on phylogenetic accuracy is not well understood. We use 4-taxon simulations to study the effects of ambiguous data (i.e., missing characters or gaps) in maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian frameworks. By introducing ambiguous data in a way that removes confounding factors, we provide the first clear understanding of 1 mechanism by which ambiguous data can mislead phylogenetic analyses. We find that in both ML and Bayesian frameworks, among-site rate variation can interact with ambiguous data to produce misleading estimates of topology and branch lengths. Furthermore, within a Bayesian framework, priors on branch lengths and rate heterogeneity parameters can exacerbate the effects of ambiguous data, resulting in strongly misleading bipartition posterior probabilities. The magnitude and direction of the ambiguous data bias are a function of the number and taxonomic distribution of ambiguous characters, the strength of topological support, and whether or not the model is correctly specified. The results of this study have major implications for all analyses that rely on accurate estimates of topology or branch lengths, including divergence time estimation, ancestral state reconstruction, tree-dependent comparative methods, rate variation analysis, phylogenetic hypothesis testing, and phylogeographic analysis.
Plant height–crown radius and canopy coverage–density relationships determine above-ground biomass–density relationship in stressful environments
Authors: Dai Xinfeng , Jia Xin , Zhang Weiping , Bai Yanyuan , Zhang Junyan , Wang Yu , Wang Genxuan
Published: May 2009

Debate continues in theoretical ecology over whether and why the scaling exponent of biomass–density (
M
–
N
) relationship varies along environmental gradients. By developing a novel geometric model with assumptions of allometric growth at the individual level and open canopy at the stand level, we propose that plant height–crown radius and canopy coverage–density relationships determine the above-ground
M
–
N
relationship in stressful environments. Results from field investigation along an aridity gradient (from eastern to western China) confirmed our model prediction and showed that the above-ground
M
–
N
scaling exponent increased with drought stress. Therefore, the ‘universal’ scaling exponents (−3/2 or −4/3) of the
M
–
N
relationship predicted by previous models may not hold for above-ground parts in stressful environments.
Positive Darwinian selection results in resistance to cardioactive toxins in true toads (Anura: Bufonidae)
Authors: Moore David J. , Halliday Damien C. T. , Rowell David M. , Robinson Anthony J. , Keogh J. Scott
Published: May 2009

Members of the Family Bufonidae, true toads, are famous for their endogenously synthesized cardioactive steroids that serve as defensive toxins. Evolution of resistance to these toxins is not understood. We sequenced a key region of the toxin's binding site in the Na+/K+ATPase for relevant taxa representing Hyloidea (including bufonids), Ranoidea and Archaeobatrachia and tested for positive selection in a phylogenetic context. Bufonidae were distinct from other Hyloidea at 4–6 of 12 sites and, with one exception, had a homologous amino acid sequence.Melanophryniscus stelznerihad a distinct sequence, consistent with other independent evidence for a differentiated toxin. Tests within Bufonidae detected positive selection within the binding region, providing, to our knowledge, the first evidence of this type for positive selection within Amphibia. There was no evidence for positive selection on Bufonidae orM. stelznerilineages. Sequence change inLeptodactylus ocellatus, a leptodactylid predator of Bufonidae, provides a molecular basis for predator resistance possibly associated with gene duplication.
Quantitative analysis of the effects of the exotic Argentine ant on seed-dispersal mutualisms
Authors: Rodriguez-Cabal Mariano A. , Stuble Katharine L. , Nuñez Martin A. , Sanders Nathan J.
Published: May 2009

Although it is increasingly clear that exotic invasive species affect seed-dispersal mutualisms, a synthetic examination of the effect of exotic invasive species on seed-dispersal mutualisms is lacking. Here, we review the impacts of the invasive Argentine ant (
Linepithema humile
) on seed dispersal. We found that sites with
L. humile
had 92 per cent fewer native ant seed dispersers than did sites where
L. humile
was absent. In addition,
L. humile
did not replace native seed dispersers, as rates of seed removal and seedling establishment were all lower in the presence of
L. humile
than in its absence. We conclude that potential shifts in plant diversity and concomitant changes in ecosystem function may be a consequence of Argentine ant invasions, as well as invasions by other ant species. Because very few studies have examined the effects of non-ant invasive species on seed-dispersal mutualisms, the prevalence of disruption of seed-dispersal mutualisms by invasive species is unclear.
Animal migration: linking models and data beyond taxonomic limits
Authors: Bauer Silke , Barta Zoltan , Ens Bruno J. , Hays Graeme C. , McNamara John M. , Klaassen Marcel
Published: May 2009

An international workshop on animal migration was held at the Lorentz Center in Leiden, The Netherlands, 2–6 March 2009, bringing together leading theoreticians and empiricists from the major migratory taxa, aiming at the identification of cutting-edge questions in migration research that cross taxonomic borders.
Ripening-Regulated Susceptibility of Tomato Fruit toBotrytis cinereaRequiresNORBut NotRINor Ethylene
Authors: Cantu Dario , Blanco-Ulate Barbara , Yang Liya , Labavitch John M. , Bennett Alan B. , Powell Ann L.T.
Published: May 2009

Fruit ripening is a developmental process that is associated with increased susceptibility to the necrotrophic pathogen Botrytis cinerea. Histochemical observations demonstrate that unripe tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruit activate pathogen defense responses, but these responses are attenuated in ripe fruit infected by B. cinerea. Tomato fruit ripening is regulated independently and cooperatively by ethylene and transcription factors, including NON-RIPENING (NOR) and RIPENING-INHIBITOR (RIN). Mutations in NOR or RIN or interference with ethylene perception prevent fruit from ripening and, thereby, would be expected to influence susceptibility. We show, however, that the susceptibility of ripe fruit is dependent on NOR but not on RIN and only partially on ethylene perception, leading to the conclusion that not all of the pathways and events that constitute ripening render fruit susceptible. Additionally, on unripe fruit, B. cinerea induces the expression of genes also expressed as uninfected fruit ripen. Among the ripening-associated genes induced by B. cinerea are LePG (for polygalacturonase) and LeExp1 (for expansin), which encode cell wall-modifying proteins and have been shown to facilitate susceptibility. LePG and LeExp1 are induced only in susceptible rin fruit and not in resistant nor fruit. Thus, to infect fruit, B. cinerea relies on some of the processes and events that occur during ripening, and the fungus induces these pathways in unripe fruit, suggesting that the pathogen itself can initiate the induction of susceptibility by exploiting endogenous developmental programs. These results demonstrate the developmental plasticity of plant responses to the fungus and indicate how known regulators of fruit ripening participate in regulating ripening-associated pathogen susceptibility.
Identification of Nutrient-Responsive Arabidopsis and Rapeseed MicroRNAs by Comprehensive Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction Profiling and Small RNA Sequencing
Authors: Pant Bikram Datt , Musialak-Lange Magdalena , Nuc Przemyslaw , May Patrick , Buhtz Anja , Kehr Julia , Walther Dirk , Scheible Wolf-Rüdiger
Published: May 2009

Comprehensive expression profiles of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) MIRNA genes and mature microRNAs (miRs) are currently not available. We established a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction platform that allows rapid and sensitive quantification of 177 Arabidopsis primary miR transcripts (pri-miRs). The platform was used to detect phosphorus (P) or nitrogen (N) status-responsive pri-miR species. Several pri-miR169 species as well as pri-miR398a were found to be repressed during N limitation, whereas during P limitation, pri-miR778, pri-miR827, and pri-miR399 species were induced and pri-miR398a was repressed. The corresponding responses of the biologically active, mature miRs were confirmed using specific stem-loop reverse transcription primer quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays and small RNA sequencing. Interestingly, the latter approach also revealed high abundance of some miR star strands. Bioinformatic analysis of small RNA sequences with a modified miRDeep algorithm led to the identification of the novel P limitation-induced miR2111, which is encoded by two loci in the Arabidopsis genome. Furthermore, miR2111, miR169, a miR827-like sequence, and the abundances of several miR star strands were found to be strongly dependent on P or N status in rapeseed (Brassica napus) phloem sap, flagging them as candidate systemic signals. Taken together, these results reveal the existence of complex small RNA-based regulatory networks mediating plant adaptation to mineral nutrient availability.
Virtually local: social media and community among Polish nationals in Dublin
Authors: Komito Lee , Bates Jessica
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of social media (including social networking technologies) on migration strategies and integration, focusing on the use of new technologies for information seeking and dissemination, as well as personal communication.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 26 Polish nationals resident in Ireland were interviewed in 2008, using semi‐structured interviews.

Findings

Results indicated a significant use of new social media, especially social networking technologies based in Poland and largely used by Polish language speakers. The use of social networking technologies enabled “media rich” and resilient social groups to develop, founded on the latent monitoring of activities characteristic of face‐to‐face, geographically delimited communities. The resulting social groups incorporated friends and relations based in Poland, Ireland and throughout the world. These networks tended to minimize integration into Irish society, as most Polish nationals interacted only with other Polish people, whether resident in Ireland or elsewhere.

Originality/value

This research demonstrates that new technologies are having a significant impact on patterns of migration. New social media are changing the character of international migration, with an emphasis on mobility rather than assimilation. Where foreign nationals previously tended to integrate into the societies where they resided, migrants are now more likely to be peripatetic mobile workers. Furthermore, while these migrants often no longer live in physical ghettos, they now live in “virtual” ghettos or enclaves, as they use new technologies to create separate lives within the wider society in which they work and live.
The pleasure principle: the power of positive affect in information seeking
Authors: Fulton Crystal
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how the affective aspect of information seeking is important in understanding information behaviour from a holistic perspective. While researchers have often explored adverse affective responses and coping mechanisms in information behaviour, this paper aims to focus on positive affect and the significant place of pleasure in amateur genealogists' information seeking and skills development.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a multi‐case, exploratory approach to learning about amateur genealogists' affective behaviour associated with their information seeking. A total of 24 amateur genealogists from around the world participated in semi‐structured telephone interviews about their hunt for their Irish ancestors. Data were transcribed and analyzed to identify patterns of affective behaviour during genealogical information seeking.

Findings

The paper finds that amateur genealogists form a unique group of information seekers. Leisure functions as an important information seeking context, in which amateur genealogists associate information seeking with pleasure.

Originality/value

Findings suggest that there is a pleasure principle associated with information seeking, which may offer insight into patterns of affective information behaviour leading to advanced learning, information use, and technological adoption among older adults.
Information skills training practices in Irish higher education
Authors: McGuinness Claire
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the results of a national survey of information skills training (IST) practices in Irish higher education institutions, which was carried out during 2006‐2007 with the aim of documenting current practice and identifying areas in which change or innovation may be warranted. Despite an emerging picture of information literacy (IL) practice worldwide, a lack of published research has made it difficult to gain an accurate overview of IL activity in the Republic of Ireland. This paper aims to partly fill this gap.

Design/methodology/approach

An invitation to complete a 26‐item questionnaire was sent out to librarians in all publicly‐funded higher education institutions in the Irish Republic in November 2006. Out of 154 librarians, 77 responded, giving a response rate of 50 per cent.

Findings

Results showed that, while librarians spend a significant portion of their time engaged in IST activities and are enthusiastic about developing and promoting their programmes, IST continues to be delivered in primarily standalone format, using non‐integrated methods. Formal assessment of IS outcomes is not commonly carried out in Irish higher education institutions.

Originality/value

This paper represents the first national survey of IST practices in higher education in the Irish Republic, and serves as a baseline for international comparison and future longitudinal studies.
Student information behaviours during group projects
Authors: O'Farrell Mary , Bates Jessica
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on a study of student information‐seeking and information‐sharing behaviours and communication during group projects. While a considerable body of literature exists on student information behaviour, less is known about the information behaviours of students working collaboratively, for example, in group projects. The aim of the study was to explore student information behaviours arising from group projects undertaken as part of their studies. The research questions were: What are the information seeking behaviours of students involved in group projects? How do students communicate with group members during group projects? How do students share information with group members during group projects? and What do students like most and dislike most about group projects?

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 50 undergraduate and graduate students in the University College Dublin School of Information and Library Studies responded to an online questionnaire (the response rate was 55.6 per cent) in May 2007.

Findings

Findings reveal that students are embracing electronic media and resources, such as web sites, electronic journals and e‐mail, to progress their group projects. However, despite the widespread availability and convenience of these resources, communication difficulties and other problems were reported. Nevertheless, in general, the findings show that students have positive perceptions of group projects and believe that they have developed useful skills, such as teamwork skills and sharing information resources, as a result.

Originality/value

This study should be of interest to both academics and librarians, and to researchers and scholars concerned with human information behaviour, particularly in an educational context.
The semantic web and the digital library
Authors: Burke Mary
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss alternative definitions of and approaches to the semantic web. It aims to clarify the relationship between the semantic web, Web 2.0 and Library 2.0.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on a literature review and evaluation of systems with semantic web features. It identifies and describes semantic web projects of relevance to libraries and evaluates the usefulness of JeromeDL and other social semantic digital library systems. It discusses actual and potential applications for libraries and makes recommendations for actions needed by researchers and practitioners.

Findings

The paper concludes that the library community has a lot to offer to, and benefit from, the semantic web, but there is limited interest in the library community. It recommends that there be greater collaboration between semantic web researchers and project developers, library management systems providers and the library community. Librarians should get involved in the development of semantic web standards, for example, metadata and taxonomies.

Originality/value

The paper clarifies the distinction between semantic web and Web 2.0 in a digital library environment. It evaluates and predicts future developments for operational systems.
Inhibition of carbon steel corrosion by azathione derivatives in organic acid solutions
Authors: Khan Sadaf , Rafiquee M.Z.A. , Saxena Nidhi , Quraishi M.A.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the inhibitive effect of azathiones, namely cyclopentyl‐tetrahydro‐azathione, cyclohexyl‐tetrahydro‐azathione and isobutyl‐methyl‐tetrahydro‐azathione on the corrosion of carbon steel in formic and acetic acid solution. The effect of inhibitor concentration, immersion time, acid concentration, and solution temperature on the inhibition efficiencies of the selected azathiones were studied systematically.

Design/methodology/approach

The synthesis of inhibitor was confirmed by methods such as Fourier transform infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance studies. All inhibition experiments were conducted on carbon steel in 20 percent formic acid and 20 percent acetic acid solution. Weight loss experiments were carried out according to the American Society for Testing and Materials standard procedure. Polarization studies were carried out in a three electrode cell assembly connected to an EG&G Princeton Applied Research potentiostat/galvanostat (model 173). The electrochemical impedance technique was carried out using Zahner IM‐6 electrochemical workstation at a frequency range of 5‐100 Hz. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study was carried out using a VP LEO model no. 435 microscope for the surface characterization of inhibited and uninhibited metal surfaces.

Findings

Various thermodynamic parameters were calculated using weight loss data in order to elaborate the mechanism of corrosion inhibition. Polarization measurements revealed that the studied azathiones acted predominantly as mixed inhibitors. Electrochemical impedance measurements revealed that the compounds were adsorbed onto the carbon steel surface and the adsorption obeyed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The SEM study showed that the inhibited metal surfaces were smoother than were uninhibited metal surfaces.

Research limitations/implications

The presence of high efficiency and low cost inhibitors is essential for protection of carbon steel. In comparison with conventional carbon steel corrosion inhibitors, these findings would be considered as a step forward in development of new corrosion inhibitor.

Originality/value

This paper reveals that azathiones can be used successfully for the protection of carbon steel surfaces exposed in acid solution.
Multiple thermal immersion ageing of commercial epoxy coatings
Authors: Angeles M.E. , Magaña C.R. , Rodríguez F.J.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the degradation of two commercial epoxy coatings with different pigments recommended for marine immersion, in a proposed short time accelerated aging cycle, correlating the electrochemical, thermal and superficial characterization.

Design/methodology/approach

An immersion accelerated ageing method in an aggressive environment with increasing temperature has been described: samples of two films applied on AISI 1010 steel and films free of substrate of two different pigment coatings were submerged in hot brine, maintaining them for 24 h at 25°C, then increasing daily in 20°C increments to 85°C; followed by cooling to 25°C. The applied samples were evaluated in situ electrochemically using electrochmical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) (while they were in the heated environment) and the free films were submitted to differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) at the beginning and end of each temperature stage.

Findings

Results from the EIS tests mainly showed that the protective properties of both coatings (as indicated by coating capacitance and coating resistance values) decreased (when the temperature was increasing, but at the end of the cycle, the trend of both parameters was to reach their initial values, indicating that the change was physical (and reversible). However, after several cycles the trend of properties was to decrease, indicating then that a chemical damage (irreversible damage) had been caused by aging. The DSC technique showed that the coatings were plasticized after the immersion, due to the change in glass‐transition (Tg), and SEM revealed the presence of micro cracks after several cycles, confirming that mechanical degradation had taken place due to hot immersion.

Practical implications

Ageing cycles of this type could be applied to organic coatings, perhaps varying the aggressive environment and ageing time according to the hardness and chemical resistance of the coatings, as well as the Tg temperatures of the resins employed.

Originality/value

The conditions employed on the aging cycle were suitable to cause physical and mechanical damage to the films and to enable comparative performance testing to be evaluated quickly, and to promote chemical degradation. All results obtained by the three techniques were correlated satisfactorily and could be used to characterize the type of damage sustained by the coatings.
Corrosion of inhibitor treated carbon steel during wet/dry cycling tests
Authors: Saricimen Huseyin
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the inhibition of carbon steel corrosion under wet/dry conditions using electrochemical techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

Sodium dihydrogen orthophosphate, dicyclohexylamine nitrite and sodium benzoate were used as inhibitors in the investigation. Plain carbon steel specimens were treated with three different inhibitors for a set period of time. One group of the specimens was subjected to 60 wet/dry cycles whilst a second group was kept continuously immersed in distilled water during the same period. The corrosion rates of the specimens were determined by electrochemical methods at several intervals during corrosion.

Findings

The three inhibitors showed good performance during the whole 60 days of wet/dry cycling. Sodium dihydrogen orthophosphate was the best of the three, giving the lowest corrosion rates. However, during full immersion tests in distilled water, specimens that had been treated with dicyclohexylamine nitrite and sodium benzoate performed better than did those treated with sodium dihydrogen orthophosphate. Moreover, the corrosion rates were significantly higher in the case of wet/dry cycling due to differential aeration created through partial immersion, which was a consequence of the wet and dry cycling process.

Originality/value

This study showed the beneficial effect of inhibitors in slowing down the corrosion of steel. Furthermore, wet/dry cycling of steel samples in the laboratory produced corrosion rates that were comparable to those measured under actual outdoor conditions.
Trust not in money
Authors: Goodwin R.E. , Mullan B.A.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the impact of financial conflict of interest (FCI) disclosure on dietary behavioural intention related to the Glycaemic Index (GI) of food.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 72 participants were randomly allocated to two conditions by reading an academic journal article about GI that contained an FCI disclosure (conflict) or a statement detailing that the authors had no FCI to declare (no‐conflict). Using a questionnaire, participants made judgements about the article and authors as well as intention to perform GI‐related behaviour. These were then analysed for significant differences between the two conditions.

Findings

Although no significant differences emerged between group means of judgements about the article, those in the conflict condition judged the authors as being significantly less trustworthy and credible than those in the no‐conflict condition. Contrary to expectation, those in the conflict condition reported significantly higher intentions to perform GI‐related behaviour.

Research limitations/implications

The present research must be conducted in other populations of interest in order to establish whether the results can be generalised.

Practical implications

The results suggest that FCI disclosure might be best placed at the beginning of articles and that education about FCI be made available to the general public.

Originality/value

The paper examines the practical implications of FCI disclosure. It also focuses on a readership beyond an academic community who is well acquainted with the subject area and issues pertaining to FCI.
A case study assessment of the operational performance of a multiple fresh produce distribution centre in the UK
Authors: Manikas Ioannis , Terry Leon A.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The aim of this research is to evaluate the current operational status of fresh produce distribution centres in the UK and identify the nature and magnitude of the main logistical problems within them.

Design/methodology/approach

A critical evaluation of space and time utilization efficiency has been achieved by studying on‐site operations in a multiple produce handling and short‐term storage facility in Kent, UK. The objective of this research was to measure operational performance of distribution centres for agricultural perishables in terms of through‐put and space utilization.

Findings

The inefficient utilization of storage space within cold rooms has been identified and quantified accurately, whilst the quality control task has been recognized as the most time‐consuming task and a critical cause for hindering product flow.

Practical implications

Despite their importance, distribution centres for fresh fruit and vegetables have received little attention in the distribution and performance management literature. Given the lack of robust performance measurement systems reported, the measurement of operational performance in distribution centres for agricultural products was a challenge.

Originality/value

The measurement and improvement of the operational performance in each linkage of the fresh produce supply chain – such as a distribution centre – can lead in achieving higher levels of service at substantially reduced costs. A small number of publications are found in the literature providing information on physical distribution of agricultural perishables, and how the key features of perishability and voluminosity of the produce affect the distribution efficiency. In this research, a step towards the improvement of the fresh produce distribution industry operational performance has been attempted, by evaluating the current operational status of a leading multiple produce distribution centre in the UK.
Living independently and the impact on young adult eating behaviour in Germany
Authors: Sharma Bishnu , Harker Michael , Harker Debra , Reinhard Karin
Published: May 2009

Purpose

This aim of this study is to investigate whether food choice varies by the place of residence (dependent or independent) of a group of young adults.

Design/methodology/approach

A self‐administered questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data from 305 German students between the ages of 18 to 24 years.

Findings

It was found that students who lived in the family home consumed more helpings of both fruit and vegetables each day, compared with young adults who lived independently. Further, higher proportions of dependent students ate more servings of every food group each day compared with their independent counterparts. It was also found that there is a significant difference in mood, weight concern and attitudes towards healthy eating between students under 21‐years‐old and those above 21‐years‐old.

Research limitations/implications

The research was a cross‐sectional study of a selected group of German university students from a single campus that was based on a quota sample and assessed self‐reported behaviour on a self‐administered questionnaire. While the limitations associated with these aspects of research design affect the generalizability of the findings, they, nonetheless, do not detract from the strengths and novelty of the research.

Practical implications

In terms of education, campaigns may consider focusing on improving the attitude toward healthy eating among young German adults who live in a dependent arrangement within the family home, perhaps encouraging the young adult to be an influencer in food purchases. Furthermore, it is suggested that social marketing campaigns that educate young adults about food‐related activities, such as budgeting, preparation and cooking, in readiness for, or in the early stages of, their transition to independent living would yield positive results. The motivation component of social marketing may also be informed by the research findings. Specifically, persuasive messages that correspond with Sheth and Frazier's inducement process may encourage healthier eating.

Originality/value

Being a relatively unexplored area, the findings are novel and provide valuable insights for the implementation of an inducement process for planned social change as well as informing the education and motivation elements of intervention strategies.
Shopping for food: lessons from a London borough
Authors: Bowyer Sarah , Caraher Martin , Eilbert Kay , Carr‐Hill Roy
Published: May 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to measure access to food in an inner London borough.

Design/methodology/approach

There were six phases, which included designing food baskets, consultation with local residents and a shop survey. Recognising the cultural make‐up of the borough food baskets and menus were developed for four key communities, namely: White British, Black Caribbean, Turkish, and Black African. Three areas were identified for the study and shopping hubs identified with a 500‐metre radius from a central parade of shops.

Findings

The findings paint an intricate web of interactions ranging from availability in shops to accessibility and affordability being key issues for some groups. It was found that in the areas studied there was availability of some key healthy items, namely fresh fruit and vegetables, but other items such as: fresh meat and poultry, fish, lower fat dairy foods, high fibre pasta and brown rice were not available. Access was found to be defined, by local people, as more extensive than just physical distance to/from shops – for many shopping was made more difficult by having to use taxis and inconvenient buses. Small shops were important in delivering healthy food options to communities in areas of deprivation and were judged to offer a better range and more appropriate food than the branches of the major supermarket chains.

Research limitations/implications

The importance of monitoring the impact of shops and shop closures on healthy food availability is emphased. From a policy perspective the findings suggest that approaches based on individual agency need to be balanced with upstream public health nutrition approaches in order to influence the options available.

Originalty/value

The paper is arguably the first to examine and dissect the issue of food availability and accessibility in the inner London borough in question, especially in the light of its proposed redevelopment for the London Olympics in 2012.
Market trends and consumer profile at the organic farmers market in Costa Rica
Authors: Aguirre González Juan Antonio
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide information to local authorities, consumers, retailers and vendors of organic agricultural products. The information could be used for the development of long‐term strategies for local organic market development based on the consumer profile information of buyers at the organic market, as well as its evolution and motivations that moved them to start and to continue purchasing organic products. In order to identify reliable trends and potential changes in the quantity and quality of the profile of the organic consumer, could the information also be be used for local market developments strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of six studies were conducted at Costa Rica's largest local organic farmers market “La Feria del Trueque”, during the same period every year during the month of February, covering an eight‐year period. The six surveys became three mega databases: one for the 1999/2000 period, another for the 2004/2005 and one finally for the 2007/2008 period.

Findings

The study finds that the organic consumer is usually highly educated, has a high income, is concerned with health and environmental problems, has a smaller than average family with men being more involved in the purchase of organic products and living in suburbia rather than from the metropolitan areas.

Practical implications

After a decade of expansion, the Costa Rican organic products market is starting to show signs of consolidation. However, the volume, the available varieties and guaranteed supply will decide the future direction of the market. Relocating the market closer to the consumer will benefit the overall sales.

Originality/value

The paper gives an in‐depth insight into the organic market of today and is a valuable addition to the present literature.
Corporate marketing: apocalypse, advent and epiphany
Authors: Balmer John M.T.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

Corporate marketing is a marketing and management paradigm which synthesises practical and theoretical insights from corporate image and reputation, corporate identity, corporate communications and corporate branding, among other corporate‐level constructs. The purpose of this paper is to explain the nature and relevance of corporate marketing and to detail the antecedents of the territory.

Design/methodology/approach

Via the adoption of a quadrivium; a traditional classical approach to the acquisition of knowledge, the paper shows how organisations can be faced by Apocalyptical scenarios through a failure to accord sufficient attention to one or more dimensions of the corporate marketing mix; explains why the emergence of corporate level constructs such as corporate image, identity, branding communications and reputation represents, both individually and collectively, the Advent of corporate marketing; details the various integrative initiatives in corporate design, corporate communications and identity studies which, together with the incremental augmentation of the marketing philosophy, find their natural dénouement in the Epiphany of corporate marketing; and describes the 6Cs of the corporate marketing mix and reflects on possible future directions in organisational marketing.

Findings

The paper reveals the efficacy of adopting an organisation‐wide corporate marketing philosophy to management decision makers and scholars.

Practical implications

Drawing on the marketing/management theory of identity alignment policy the paper accords attention to each dimension of the corporate marketing mix and ensures that they are in meaningful as well as in dynamic alignment.

Originality/value

The practical utility of corporate marketing is explicated by making reference to case vignettes, and various marketing and non‐marketing literatures.
Corporate brand reputation and brand crisis management
Authors: Greyser Stephen A.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to provide insights into the what, why, and how of recognising corporate brand crisis through a synthesis of organisational experiences with threats to brand reputation, and to offer guidelines for analytic approaches and suggested organisational actions.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach takes the form of a clinical set of examinations and interpretation of a substantial number of recognised corporate brand crisis situations. The analysis and suggested approaches in the paper have been tested with corporate executives and communications counselors in classrooms and private applied situations.

Findings

The main points are: reputational trouble can come in many forms, from many sources and many publics; the most serious situations are those that affect the distinctive attribute/characteristic – “the essence of the brand” – most closely associated with the brand's meaning and success. A number of specific examples illustrate this point. However, past and present corporate behaviour is the most significant element in a crisis situation. Authenticity plays a key role in building, sustaining, and defending reputation. From analysis of many corporate brand crisis experiences the paper finds that forthrightness in communications and substantive credible responses in the form of behaviour are most likely to restore trust and rescue a brand in crisis. The most important actions, however, are those taken to build a “reputational reservoir” as a strong foundation for corporate reputation.

Research limitations/implications

Research on reputational troubles is rarely based on documented information from inside the affected/afflicted organization. Except when companies have successfully overcome such situations (such as Johnson and Johnson in the Tylenol tragedy), internal information is typically unavailable. Examination of media coverage and informal discussions with former executives can be mitigating substitutes.

Practical implications

The principal implications relate to: how an organization can assess the seriousness of an actual or prospective situation affecting its brand reputation; suggested approaches to the value and use of corporate communications and the salience of authenticity; and suggested actions in the face of brand crisis.

Originality/value

The paper provides an analytic approach to assessing the seriousness of threats to organisational brand reputation. It also examines actual reputational troubles in the context of corporate‐level marketing and corporate communications; and draws on extensive case studies and seminars in this area with experienced executives.