bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of home economics on the nutrition knowledge and food skills of Mauritian school adolescents
Authors: Oogarah‐Pratap B. , Bholah R. , Cyparsade M. , Mathoor K.
Published: November 2004

In Mauritius, the school curriculum does not support the need to develop sound nutrition knowledge and food skills to combat the rising incidence of non‐communicable diseases. This study looks at whether adolescents who had been taught Home Economics had better nutrition knowledge than children who had not. Self‐administered questionnaires were used to collect data from adolescents, Science teachers and Home Economics teachers, randomly selected from 12 co‐educational secondary schools. It was found that the overall nutrition knowledge did not differ significantly. However, Home Economics teaching was associated with better food skills, especially among boys, and was found to be the main source of nutrition‐related information. Opines that active learning methods and Home Economics should become compulsory in all secondary schools. This was the first study of its kind conducted in Mauritius. Findings would be of most value to teachers and policy‐makers in the field of education.
Aflatoxins in Nigerian dry‐roasted groundnuts
Authors: Bankole S.A. , Eseigbe D.A.
Published: November 2004

Samples of dry‐roasted groundnuts purchased from street hawkers, markets and retail shops in southwestern Nigeria were analysed for moisture content, fungal populations and aflatoxin contamination. The moisture content varied from 2.1 to 3.6 per cent, while the mould counts using the dilution plating method ranged from 2.9 × 102 to 6.3 × 102 colony‐forming units per gram in samples. Aflatoxin B1 was found in 64.2 per cent of samples with a mean of 25.5 ppb. Aflatoxins B2, G1 and G2 were detected in 26.4, 11.3 and 2.8 per cent of the samples with mean levels of 10.7, 7.2 and 8 ppb respectively in contaminated samples. It is concluded that the regular consumption of DRG by Nigerians might present potential health hazards.
Storage studies of red palm oil fortified cookies
Authors: Butt M.S. , Sharif K. , Huma N. , Mukhtar T. , Rasool J.
Published: November 2004

Use of red palm oil fortified shortening was explored for combating vitamin A deficiency in Pakistan. Six types of cookies were prepared in which normal shortening was progressively replaced at the rate of 20 per cent with RPO fortified shortening. The carotenoids content of cookies varied depending on the content of RPO. A moderate loss was noticed after a 60‐day storage. An increase in moisture content was observed, while other chemical characteristics remained unchanged. Sensory analysis showed that cookies containing 40 per cent RPO were most acceptable, while those prepared from 80‐100 per cent RPO developed an oily flavour. The best treatment having 40 per cent RPO + 60 per cent NS provides 344.15 to 312.86 μg/10 g of carotenoids at 0 and 60 days respectively. Recommends that five cookies would provide 40‐50 per cent of RDA of vitamin A to school‐going children.
Teaching information literacy using the short story
Authors: Brier David J. , Kaye Lebbin Vickery
Published: November 2004

Stories are powerful teaching tools because of their potential to stimulate the imagination of students and engage them with the material. The short story gives meaning to abstract concepts, aids memory, makes learning fun, and is time efficient. This article explains the approach to teaching information literacy through the use of short stories, including how to create vivid connections to the Association of College and Research Libraries’ Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education. Provides course instructors with examples of how the short story can be used as a platform to discuss information literacy standards.
The impact of the JUBILEE Toolkit in institutions
Authors: Coulson Graham , Banwell Linda
Published: November 2004

Scope of paper. Through a discussion of the processes employed with case studies participating in the research project this paper will reflect upon JUBILEE's development of its EIS improvement Toolkit, and its experience of integrating the JUBILEE Toolkit into the research process. Evidence of both the strengths and limitations of the use of Toolkit themes in research and practice will be highlighted, and the potential improvements to EIS provision of such collaboration between practitioners and research staff outlined.
Strategies for collecting networked statistics: practical suggestions
Authors: McClure Charles R.
Published: November 2004

Purpose. To offer a range of practical suggestions for library staff and others who intend to collect and analyze data that describe their networked services. Method/approach. Based on the author's experience in completing a number of funded research projects on this topic, working directly with libraries in collecting networked statistics and implementing the findings from those efforts, and observing best practices at those libraries. Findings. Factors dealing with understanding the evaluation context, planning, training, organization, determining appropriate data collection methods, managing data, and knowing the target audience for reporting are all‐important. Details a number of specific factors and strategies that can be used to increase the success of collecting networked statistics. Practical implications. Thinking about the preparation needed to collect networked statistics and how the process can be handled as efficiently as possible before the effort begins can help ensure that the library staff uses its time as wisely as possible in the data collection process, collects high quality and useful data, integrates these data into other library data, can draw upon the data for future purposes through a management information system, and uses the data to improve overall library decision making, planning, and meeting community information needs.
The eVALUEd toolkit: a framework for the qualitative evaluation of electronic information services
Authors: McNicol Sarah
Published: November 2004

Purpose. To provide an overview of the approach to EIS evaluation taken by the eVALUEd toolkit and relate this to other work in this area. Design/methodology/approach. The eVALUEd toolkit was designed to fill a gap in EIS evaluation in relation to qualitative techniques, user‐focused evaluation and the utilisation of evaluation findings. Findings. The eVALUEd toolkit makes a distinct contribution to EIS evaluation through its focus on people rather than resources or technology, emphasis on qualitative methods and promotion of all aspects of the evaluation cycle. Research limitations/implications. Further work is required in relation to mixed methods of EIS evaluation and case studies would provide greater insight into the ways in which such data can be used in practice. Practical implications. There should be greater consideration given to the use of qualitative methods of EIS evaluation as statistical data alone are rarely sufficient for investigating complex problems and planning and managing services. However, there is a need for further guidance and training in this area. Originality/value. Aimed at library practitioners and researchers and others who provide support with evaluation. Reports on a practical tool and offers a balance to work focused on quantitative evaluation methods.
E‐measures: a comprehensive waste of time?
Authors: Town Stephen
Published: November 2004

Purpose. To provide a critique, some sources of data, and a broader conception for informing development of e‐measures frameworks for use in academic library services. Approach. Suggests that the broader context for e‐measurement is investigated and provides a critique of current thinking. Provides four additional sources or routes for improved measures, including scholarly communication methods, information literacy, developments in measuring library and e‐service quality, and the critical success factors of serials staff. Develops a proposed framework for e‐measures based on the balanced scorecard approach. Findings. Provides specific suggestions arising from the four sources for relevant e‐measures, and provides a framework based on the balanced scorecard which incorporates these and other suggestions for data collection under the following perspectives: financial, customers, process and projects, staff development, and organisational learning and development. Value. The paper will be valuable to library directors and managers and library researchers interested in the field of performance measurement and evaluation of e‐resources. It provides some original thinking about the problem and suggests some innovative techniques and approaches to addressing the need to develop effective and useful performance measurement frameworks.
Evaluation in the Arts and Humanities Data Service
Authors: Wynne Martin
Published: November 2004

Purpose. There are a large number of free electronic resources available on the web, from various sources, including the outputs of funded research projects. As yet, there are not well‐established procedures for the evaluation of the quality and usefulness of these electronic resources. This article examines two preliminary approaches to the problem. Approach. An investigation into free e‐books was carried out for the JISC to examine the potential for the use of free e‐books in teaching and learning in further and higher education in the UK. Questionnaires, a dissemination workshop and focus groups were used to obtain the research results. Three possible approaches to evaluation are discussed, involving the collection of high‐quality resources in a trusted repository, large‐scale evaluation of available resources, and evaluation by end‐users. The practical problems of each approach are discussed. The prospect of future large‐scale digitisation projects and their possible impact in this field is also considered. In a separate section, the question of evaluation of electronic resources is briefly considered in the context of collections development in the Arts and Humanities Data Service (AHDS). Findings. The conclusion is drawn that it is more cost‐effective to intervene early in the lifecycle of a digital resource and to help ensure good practice in the creation of the resource than to attempt to evaluate and enhance a resource at the end of the creation process. Originality. This paper draws on the unique experience of the AHDS as a central, national service for researchers in the arts and humanities creating and using electronic resources.
Positioning strategies in the value‐added chain of the biopharmaceutical sector: the case of UK SMEs
Authors: Gurău Călin
Published: November 2004

One of the major functions of marketing strategy is the proper positioning of the company in the sectorial value‐added chain, in order to create the best possible competitive advantage. This process is extremely important, especially for small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs), since any wrong decision can literally eliminate the company from the market. This paper attempts to analyse and present the strategic positioning process specific to small and medium‐sized biopharmaceutical firms in the UK. After discussing the specific characteristics of the value chain in the biopharmaceuticals sector, the paper presents the research methodology used to collect primary and secondary data. Data analysis leads towards a theoretical model that describes the stages and the factors influencing the strategic positioning of SMEs in the value‐added chain of the biopharmaceuticals sector.
Should they learn to interrupt? Workplace communication strategies Australian women managers forecast as effective
Authors: Barrett Mary
Published: November 2004

The paper discusses some gender debates in linguistic behaviour and suggests how scenario‐based research techniques may contribute. It then presents a survey‐based study of 157 Australian female, organisationally senior, managers. For each of three workplace communication dilemmas, participants evaluated a series of strategic responses, indicating both how effective and how probable they thought the responses were. Despite the participants’ seniority and confidence as communicators, their evaluation of the strategies often varied with whether they believed the communication strategist in the scenario was male or female. This suggests that even confident, organisationally senior women still maintain some traditional gender‐based ideas about good communication. Despite this, the participants’ own preferred communication strategies did not vary with their seniority or their confidence in expressing opinions. The study's theoretical and practical implications and some limitations are discussed, together with topics for further research.
Encouraging more female quantity surveying graduates to enter the construction industry in Singapore
Authors: Yean Yng Ling Florence , Pei Poh Yeu
Published: November 2004

This research investigates the barriers that are preventing female undergraduates who major in quantity surveying from entering the construction industry on graduation. Possible barriers are identified and are categorized into external factors and internal factors. Self‐administered questionnaires were distributed to randomly selected female QS undergraduates. Among the external factors (work‐related factors), female undergraduates are discouraged by the nature of working conditions of and sexist attitudes that exist in the construction industry. Among the internal factors (personal attributes), female undergraduates indicated that they were not confident about their own abilities to work with male contractors and sub‐contractors. They also felt that they would not be assertive; unable to manage male construction operatives and subordinates; and did not possess adequate technical skills. Recommendations are given on how these barriers may be lowered or eliminated, so as to encourage more women to enter the construction industry on graduation.
Text appeal: the psychology of SMS texting and its implications for the design of mobile phone interfaces
Authors: Reid Fraser J.M. , Reid Donna J.
Published: November 2004

Argues that understanding the psychological drivers behind SMS uptake among key user groups could open the door to a range of user‐centred applications capable of transforming handset usability – and hence operator revenues – for this inexpensive form of text messaging. Combines the findings of our own web‐based survey of SMS users with psychological evidence and research on related text‐based conversational systems to draw out lessons for a user‐based approach to the design of mobile phone handset displays that capitalise on the social affordances of SMS texting.
The future of mobile technology and mobile wireless computing
Authors: Hart Jim , Hannan Mike
Published: November 2004

It is often stated that mobile wireless computing is going to be the next big technology revolution that will grip the world in the same way mobile telephones did in the 1990s. However, while the technology is rapidly improving, the rate of uptake has been lower than expected. This paper describes some of the reasons for this, and discusses some of the proposed solutions.
An audio stream redirector for the Ethernet Speaker
Authors: Mandrekar Ishan , Prevelakis Vassilis , Turner David Michael
Published: November 2004

The authors have developed the “Ethernet Speaker” (ES), a network‐enabled single board computer embedded into a conventional audio speaker. Audio streams are transmitted in the local area network using multicast packets, and the ES can select any one of them and play it back. A key requirement for the ES is that it must be capable of playing any type of audio stream, independent of the streaming protocol, or the encoding used. The authors achieved this by providing a streaming audio server built using the kernel‐based audio stream redirector (ASR) in the OpenBSD kernel. The ASR accepts input from any of the existing audio file players, or streaming audio clients. Since all audio applications have to be able to use the system audio driver, this system can accommodate any protocol or file format, provided that there exists some compatible player running under OpenBSD. This paper discusses the design and implementation of the server as an ASR, the streaming protocol developed for this application, and the implementation of the client.
Crashing the party: catalogers as digital librarians
Authors: DeZelar‐Tiedman Christine
Published: November 2004

Catalog librarians have been slow to take an active role in the development and execution of digital library projects. Catalogers have a unique combination of experience and skills that would be valuable in the digital library world. Catalogers are encouraged to take the initiative to overcome stereotypes and their own fears in order to become active partners and collaborators. Suggestions are given for initial steps to take in order to move into the digital library arena.
Those who can, teach: an interview with Jane Greenberg
Authors: Medeiros Norm
Published: November 2004

This article features an interview with Jane Greenberg, Associate Professor in the School of Information and Library Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Ms Greenberg discusses metadata education, her research projects, and the future of the Semantic Web. She describes the Metadata Generation Research and Automatic Metadata Generation Applications projects, the ways library school curricula have changed and will likely change in the near future, and the influence Dublin Core has had on her career.
Educating archival professionals in the twenty‐first century
Authors: Yakel Elizabeth
Published: November 2004

Archival education has progressed tremendously in the past 30 years. The numbers of archival programs, full‐time tenure track faculty and courses offered have all increased exponentially. Archival science is no longer seen as a sub‐specialization of library science or history and the efforts to legitimize archives as a separate field worthy of in‐depth inquiry at both the Master's and doctoral levels have succeeded. Most recently, however, the convergence of the information disciplines has called the distinctions between related disciplines into question. This poses both challenges and opportunities for archival education. This article places archival education in its historical and professional context, and will then discuss some of the issues relating to convergence and integration in the information professions.
Defining digital libraries
Authors: Frumkin Jeremy
Published: November 2004

Discusses our ongoing interest in debating the concept of the digital library, how to “de‐mystify” the concept, and the importance of being involved in the development of the digital library as it evolves.
How not to run a digital library project
Authors: Cervone Frank
Published: November 2004

If a digital library project is to be successful, the project needs to be run in a professional manner, using project management techniques. This article points out some of the most important aspects of project management such as understanding the project requirements, the role of planning, accurately determining budget and schedule, controlling the scope of the project, and developing expertise. In order to accomplish this, the project manager needs to be a multifaceted leader as well as technically adept.
Building a cyberinfrastructure for the humanities
Authors: Cantara Linda
Published: November 2004

This article discusses the American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS) Commission on Cyberinfrastructure for the Humanities and Social Sciences, and its potential impact on the development of enhanced digital libraries in the humanities. It focuses on the problems inherent in creating the technological environment needed by humanities scholars and the tools required to build, repurpose, and interact with digital libraries in the humanities.
The electronic library: responses from the State University of New York (SUNY)
Authors: Petrick Joseph
Published: November 2004

Illustrates the methods of pointing to remotely‐accessible electronic resources in libraries in a university system ranging from research centers to community colleges. The online catalogs of libraries in the State University of New York (SUNY) system were tested for remotely‐accessible electronic resources. Each library's internet home page was also searched for means of linking to journal titles. The libraries at SUNY campuses have shown different responses to the issues of making available aggregator databases, web sites, and e‐books. A marked decrease in the use of the online catalog to make available remotely‐accessible electronic resources at academic libraries other than those at the research level was noted. The findings are limited insofar that no effort was made to determine the reasons why each library did or not include records for remotely‐accessible electronic resources in their online catalogs. Academic libraries find desirable a single search interface for remotely‐accessible electronic resources, and this may include the library's online catalog. This study will be of value to those who are concerned with the ways in which remotely‐accessible electronic resources are made available in various sizes of academic libraries, particularly those engaged in decision making about online resources.
Learning the steps of the dance of change: improving change capabilities by integrating futures studies and positive organisational scholarship
Authors: Karp Tom
Published: November 2004

As the pendulum swings back towards growth in business, organisational change is again on the top of the corporate agenda. Change management in recent years has not had a very successful record, and organisations must improve their change capabilities – they must better learn the dance of change. The success of change initiatives more than ever depends on the people in organisations. This article presents a people‐oriented approach to change by integrating the latest developments in “inside‐out” positive organisational scholarship with “outside‐in” thinking of future issues. The methodology facilitates better organisational learning as well as boosting people's commitment to change, and is a practical, simple and effective way of structuring and facilitating large‐scale, complex organisational change initiatives.
Are we approaching a universal accounting language in five years?
Authors: Jacob Rudy A. , Madu Christian N.
Published: November 2004

As the world stands perplexed at the recent spate of corporate governance and financial reporting problems that have rocked the US capital markets, it is hard to imagine anything good currently pervading the world financial community. But there is some good news coming from the world of international commerce; indeed, some may even describe it as revolutionary. This silver lining peeking through these dark clouds of corporate corruption is the tremendous progress that is now being made towards achieving one global financial reporting language. As early as a decade ago, some people noted that if we cannot get the world to agree about on what side of the street to drive, what chances do they have of harmonizing international accounting standards – an area where too many nations have vested interests in maintaining their own standards and practices? This paper examines the role of the major players in bringing the world closer to a universal accounting language and also argues that, perhaps, this historic accomplishment, is only about five years away.
Nanotechnology: the technology for the twenty‐first century
Authors: Tegart Greg
Published: November 2004

This paper discusses the emergence of nanotechnology as a major new technology thrust which will revolutionize all aspects of the economy and society in the twenty‐first century. This development results from the convergence of the fields of physics, chemistry,biology and engineering at the nanometer level (1 nm=10−9 m). At this level new phenomena operate and new devices and processes can be developed. The boundary between the established field of microtechnology and the new field of nanotechnology is blurred but it is clear that integrated technologies will be developed. In view of the importance of such developments in the Asia‐Pacific region the APEC Center for Technology Foresight carried out a wide‐ranging foresight study of nanotechnology in 2002/2003 and this is reported here. The study provides the strategic policy intelligence to enable economies to improve their strategic planning to deal with future changes stemming from nanotechnology.
Radar: the agricultural research environment under the microscope
Authors: Hubschmid Stefan , Cerutti Fabio , Gantner Urs
Published: November 2004

The Radar project describes what developments are taking place in areas relevant for agricultural research. In the political sphere, it can be seen that the importance of the state is diminishing. Technological progress is continuing and is evident, for example, in a rise in the global cultivation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). In the economic area, the exchange of goods and services between national economies is increasing. Society is showing less solidarity, living a more unhealthy lifestyle, yet buying with more awareness of the environment. The melting of the Swiss glaciers is a sign of global warming. The investment of large multinational companies in research is on the increase. Conclusions for agricultural research are drawn from the observed trends. It is planned to continue the Radar project as a permanent monitoring system and to update it periodically.
Supply chain scheduling using distributed parallel simulation
Authors: Nurmilaakso Juha‐Miikka
Published: November 2004

In a supply chain, an order often connects a number of companies whose schedules affect the success of the order. This paper proposes distributed supply chain scheduling in the agent architecture instead of centralised supply chain scheduling. The companies communicate through their agents that share only the information relevant to the supply chain scheduling. This scheduling relies on distributed parallel forward simulation in which simple messages are exchanged between the agents periodically. According to these messages, each agent simulates the production orders of its company and receives and sends messages about the purchase and sale orders. This synchronises the simulation of the agent with the simulations of the other agents. Distributed simulation reduces the competitor's opportunities to manipulate the company's performance through the schedules of its suppliers and customers. Although distributed simulation does not optimise the schedules, it is capable of finding feasible schedules.
A decision support system to facilitate resources allocation: an OLAP‐based neural network approach
Authors: Lau H.C.W. , Ning A. , Ip W.H. , Choy K.L.
Published: November 2004

The emergence of advanced information technologies strengthens the capability to the entrepreneur to manage and manipulate data. However, the quality of information, the capability of providing the right information to the right person, and the utilization of information are still in doubt. Therefore, increasing numbers of firms have realized and started to develop as well as improve their existing information systems to fit the ever‐changing business needs of the organization to support decision‐making for the volatile business environment. Indeed, previous research studies have found that logistics management is the great frontier of cost reduction. Therefore, in this paper, an infrastructure of a decision support system is proposed to capture and maintain the business and resources allocation information with the adoption of the neural network for its artificial intelligent characteristic that mimic the operation of human brain to generate solutions systematically. The proposed system is adopted by a shipping company to assist allocation of containers.
Why are Small Firms Different? Managers’ Views
Authors: Agell Jonas
Published: November 2004

Do incentives differ between large and small organizations? Results from a representative survey of compensation managers are used to shed light on the issues. I find that (i) small establishments rely less on pecuniary incentives, and have a significantly more hostile attitude towards incentive schemes based on competition and relative rewards; (ii) large units are more vulnerable to mechanisms of efficiency wages, effects that remain even after controlling for differences in monitoring ability; (iii) large units are more prone to indicate that negative reciprocity is important, and that their employees care about relative pay. I argue that these findings fit with behavioral stories of incentives and motivation, in particular those stressing group interaction effects, inequity aversion and gift exchange.
Is There a Hold‐up Problem?
Authors: Ellingsen Tore , Johannesson Magnus
Published: November 2004

We report on a hold‐up experiment in which unilateral investment is followed by bilateral bargaining according to Nash’s demand game. Without communication, investment is low and coordination is poor. Unilateral communication facilitates coordination, but not perfectly. Successful coordination predominantly entails “fair” outcomes. Perhaps surprisingly, sellers (investors) do at least as well under buyer communication as under seller communication.
Incidence and Duration of Breastfeeding for Term Infants in Canada, United States, Europe, and Australia: A Literature Review
Authors: Callen Jennifer , Pinelli Janet
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  Background: Analysis of differences in the incidence and duration of breastfeeding across countries may provide information about practices that encourage breastfeeding. This comparative review examines variation in the incidence and duration of breastfeeding for term infants that has been reported in studies from Canada, the United States, Europe, and Australia. Methods: Searches were conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE (from 1966), CINHAL (from 1982), and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Studies were limited to nonexperimental and observational research that addressed term infants (>37 weeks gestational age), performed in developed countries, written in the English language, and published since 1990. Additional studies were located from reference lists of meta‐analyses, systematic reviews, and previous articles. All studies that met study criteria were included in the review, regardless of the quality of methodology. Results: Although studies had methodological limitations that precluded conducting a formal systematic review or meta‐analysis, this comparative review revealed consistent differences among countries. For example, Europe and Australia reported a higher initiation and duration of breastfeeding term infants compared with Canada and the United States. Conclusions: Studies that examined reasons for a higher incidence and duration of breastfeeding term infants consistently document that women who initiate and continue to breastfeed are older, married, better educated, and have higher family incomes than women who do not breastfeed.
A 6‐year follow‐up of dosing, coagulation factor levels and bleedings in relation to joint status in the prophylactic treatment of haemophilia
Authors: Ahnström J. , Berntorp E. , Lindvall K. , Björkman S.
Published: November 2004

Summary.  The primary aim of this study was to investigate the possible relationship between coagulation factor level and bleeding frequency during prophylactic treatment of haemophilia after stratification of the patients according to joint scores. The secondary aim was to obtain a systematic overview of the doses of coagulation factors prescribed for prophylaxis at the Malmö haemophilia treatment centre during a 6‐year period. A retrospective survey of medical records for the years 1997–2002 and pharmacokinetic study results from the 1990s was complemented by collection of blood samples for coagulation factor assay when needed. Information on the dosing and plasma levels of factor VIII or factor IX, joint scores and incidence of bleedings (joint bleeds and ‘other bleeds’) was compiled. The patients were stratified by age (0–6, 7–12, 13–18, 19–36 and >36 years) and joint score (0, 1–6 and >6). Individual pharmacokinetic parameters of plasma coagulation factor activities (FVIII:C and FIX:C) were estimated. Trough levels during the treatment were calculated, as well as the number of hours per week of treatment during which plasma FVIII:C/FIX:C fell below a 1, 2 or 3% target level. Fifty‐one patients with haemophilia A (two moderate, 49 severe) and 13 with haemophilia B (all severe) were included, yielding data for 364 patient‐years of treatment. There was a wide range of dosing schedules, the most common ones being three times a week or every other day for FVIII and twice a week or every third day for FIX. The overall relationship between FVIII:C/FIX:C levels and incidence of joint bleeding was very weak, even after stratification of the patients according to joint score. There was no relationship between coagulation factor level and incidence of other bleeds. In this cohort of patients on high‐dose prophylactic treatment, dosing was based more on clinical outcome in terms of bleeding frequency than on the aim to maintain a 1% target level of FVIII:C/FIX:C. Some patients did not bleed in spite of a trough level of <1% and others did in spite of trough levels >3%. The practical implication of our findings is that dosing in prophylactic treatment of haemophilia should be individualized. Thus, proposed standard regimens should be implemented only after careful clinical consideration, with a high readiness for re‐assessment and individual dose tailoring.
A marine fish follows Wallace's Line: the phylogeography of the three‐spot seahorse (Hippocampus trimaculatus, Syngnathidae, Teleostei) in Southeast Asia
Authors: Lourie Sara A. , Vincent Amanda C. J.
Published: November 2004

Aim  To test the potential of two contrasting biogeographical hypotheses (‘Indian/Pacific Ocean Basin’ vs. ‘Wallace's Line’) to explain the distribution of genetic diversity among populations of a marine fish in Southeast Asia.

Location  The marine waters of Asia and Southeast Asia: from India to Japan, and east to the Indonesian islands of Sulawesi and Flores.

Methods  We sequenced a 696 base pair fragment of cytochrome b DNA of 100 individuals of Hippocampus trimaculatus Leach 1814 (three‐spot seahorse), obtained from across its range. We tested our hypotheses using phylogenetic reconstructions and analyses of molecular variance.

Results  Significant genetic divergence was observed among the specimens. Two distinct lineages emerged that diverged by an average of 2.9%. The genetic split was geographically associated, but surprisingly it indicated a major east–west division similar to the terrestrial Wallace's Line (ΦST = 0.662, P < 0.001) rather than one consistent with an Indian‐Pacific ocean basin separation hypothesis (ΦST = 0.023, P = 0.153). Samples from east of Wallace's Line, when analysed separately, however, were consistent with an Indian/Pacific Ocean separation (ΦST = 0.461, P = 0.005). The degree of genetic and geographical structure within each lineage also varied. Lineage A, to the west, was evolutionarily shallow (star‐like), and the haplotypes it contained often occurred over a wide area. Lineage B to the east had greater genetic structure, and there was also some evidence of geographical localization of sublineages within B.

Main conclusions  Our results indicate that the genetic diversity of marine organisms in Southeast Asia may reflect a more complex history than the simple division between two major ocean basins that has been proposed by previous authors. In particular, the east–west genetic division observed here is novel among marine organisms examined to date. The high haplotype, but low nucleotide diversity to the west of Wallace's Line is consistent with post‐glacial colonization of the Sunda Shelf. Additional data are needed to test the generality of these patterns.
Sleep quantity, sleep difficulties and their perceived consequences in a representative sample of some 2000 British adults
Authors: Groeger J. A. , Zijlstra F. R. H. , Dijk D.‐J.
Published: November 2004

Sleep problems and sleep restriction are popular topics of discussion, but few representative data are available. We document Britain's sleep based on a nationally representative sample of 1997, 16–93 year olds, who participated in face‐to‐face interviews. Fifty‐eight per cent of respondents reported sleep problems on one or more nights the previous week and 18% reported that the sleep they obtained was insufficient on the majority of nights. Sleep durations were longest in the youngest participants (16–24 years), who slept on average 1 h longer than the 7.04 (SD 1.55) sample average. Sleep duration showed no appreciable change beyond middle age. Men and women reported sleeping similar amounts but women reported more sleep problems. Men reported sleeping less when there were more children in their household. Workers (i.e. employees) reported sleeping less on workdays than on non‐workdays, but those based at home and those not employed did not. Inability to switch off from work was related to sleep duration on non‐workdays. Across all participants average sleep duration exhibited a non‐monotonic association with quality of life (i.e. contribution of sleep to energy, satisfaction and success in work, home and leisure activities). Quality of life was positively associated with sleep duration, for durations up to 9 h, but negatively associated with quality of life beyond this. Comparison of our data with the US national sleep poll revealed that Britain sleeps as little or less, whereas a comparison with data reported 40 years ago revealed no statistically reliable reductions. Although we may not sleep less than four decades ago, when we report sleeping less we also tend to associate that lack of sleep with poor performance and quality of life.
The clinical spectrum of narcolepsy with cataplexy: a reappraisal
Authors: Sturzenegger Christian , Bassetti Claudio L.
Published: November 2004

In the absence of a golden standard for the diagnosis of narcolepsy, the clinical spectrum of disorder remains controversial. The aims of this study were (1) to determine frequency and characteristics of sleep–wake symptoms in patients with narcolepsy with cataplexy, (2) to compare clinical characteristics with results of ancillary tests, and (3) to identify factors that discriminate narcolepsy from other conditions with excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). We prospectively studied 57 narcoleptics with cataplexy, 56 patients with non‐narcoleptic hypersomnia (H), and 40 normal controls (No). Based on suggested and published criteria, we differentiated between narcoleptics with definite cataplexy (N) and narcoleptics without definite cataplexy (possible cataplexy, NpC). Assessment consisted of questionnaires [all patients and controls, including the Ullanlinna Narcolepsy Score (UNS)], polysomnography (all patients), multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) and human leukocyte antigen typing (in most narcoleptics). A new narcolepsy score based on five questions was developed. Data were compared with those of 12 hypocretin‐deficient narcoleptics (N‐hd). There were significant differences between N and NpC (including mean sleep latency on MSLT), but none between N and N‐hd. A score of sleep propensity during active situations (SPAS) and the frequency of sleep paralysis/hallucinations at sleep onset, dreams of flying, and history of sleep shouting discriminated N from H and No (P < 0.001). Cataplexy‐like symptoms in H (18%) and No (8%) could be discriminated from ‘true’ cataplexy in N on the basis of topography of motor effects, triggering emotions and triggering situations (P < 0.001). Our narcolepsy score had a similar sensitivity (96% versus 98%) but a higher specificity (98% versus 56%) than the UNS. Analysis of co‐occurring symptoms in narcolepsy revealed two symptom complexes: EDS, cataplexy, automatic behaviors; and sleep paralysis, hallucinations, parasomnias. Low/undetectable cerebrospinal fluid hypocretin‐1 levels and a history of definite cataplexy identify similar subgroups of narcoleptics. Specific questions on severity of EDS (SPAS score) and characteristics of cataplexy allow the recognition of subgroups of narcoleptics and their differentiation from non‐narcoleptic EDS patients, including those reporting cataplexy‐like episodes. The existence of co‐occurring symptoms supports the hypothesis of a distinct pathophysiology of single narcoleptic symptoms.
Effect of cognitive arousal on sleep latency, somatic and cortical arousal following partial sleep deprivation
Authors: Valck Elke De , Cluydts Raymond , Pirrera Sandra
Published: November 2004

Emerging research has shown that sleepiness, defined as the tendency to fall asleep, is not only determined by sleep pressure and time of day, but also by physiological and cognitive arousal. In this study we evaluated (i) the impact of experimentally induced cognitive arousal on electroencephalogram (EEG) defined sleep latency, and subjective, somatic and cortical arousal, and (ii) whether experimentally induced cognitive arousal enhances performance on a driving simulator test. Twelve healthy sleepers each spent three nights and the following day in the sleep laboratory: an adaptation, a cognitive arousal and a neutral testing day. In the cognitive arousal condition, a visit of a television camera crew took place and subjects were asked to be interviewed. On each testing day, a 5‐min heart rate recording, subjective sleepiness and arousal scales, Multiple Sleep Latency Test and a 25‐min driving simulator task were scheduled three times at 2‐h intervals. Experimentally induced cognitive arousal resulted in significant increases in objective sleep latency. Significantly elevated levels of subjective and somatic arousal – as indexed by a subjective arousal scale and heart rate – were also evidenced following cognitive arousal induction. A marginally significant trend for increased cortical arousal, measured by EEG beta activity, was also found. No effects were found on driving simulator performance. These findings support the concept of cognitive arousal as a significant component in determining sleep latency. In addition, it was illustrated that cognitively induced arousal can provoke increases in somatic and possibly even cortical arousal in normal sleepers. However, this was not accompanied by an enhanced ability to perform adequately on a driving simulator test.
The relationship between daytime exposure to light and night‐time sleep in 6–12‐week‐old infants
Authors: Harrison Yvonne
Published: November 2004

This project investigated the relationship between exposure to light and 24‐h patterns of sleep and crying in young, healthy, full‐term babies living at home and following a normal domestic routine. Measures included an ankle worn activity monitor, an external light monitor and the Barr Baby Day Diary in which parents recorded periods of sleep, crying, feeding and other behaviours at 5‐min intervals throughout the 24‐h period. Fifty‐six babies (26 males and 30 females) were monitored across three consecutive days at 6, 9 and 12 weeks of age. There was an early evening peak in crying which was associated with reduced sleep at 6 weeks. Across the trials there was a gradual shift towards a greater proportion of sleep occurring at night. Sleeping well at 6 weeks was a good indication of more night‐time sleep at 9 and 12 weeks. Babies who slept well at night were exposed to significantly more light in the early afternoon period. These data suggest that light in the normal domestic setting influences the development of the circadian system.
Characterization of transgenic Trifolium subterraneum L. which expresses phyA and releases extracellular phytase: growth and P nutrition in laboratory media and soil
Authors: GEORGE T. S. , RICHARDSON A. E. , HADOBAS P. A. , SIMPSON R. J.
Published: November 2004

Transgenic Trifolium subterraneum expressing a phytase gene (phyA) from Aspergillus niger were generated. Five independently transformed lines showed an average 77‐fold increase in exuded phytase activity in comparison with null segregant and wild‐type controls. Unlike other phosphatases, exuded phytase activity was unaffected by P supply, verifying the constitutive expression of phyA. Transgenic T. subterraneum grown in agar with P supplied as phytate, took up 1.3‐ to 3.6‐fold more P than controls and had equivalent P uptake to plants supplied with orthophosphate. This unique phenotype was compromised when the plants were grown in soil. None of the five lines showed increased shoot biomass or total P uptake in an unfertilized, low‐P soil taken from under permanent pasture. With addition of P, one of the five transgenic lines had consistently greater P nutrition compared with control plants. Despite variable growth and P nutrition responses, P uptake per root length was on average greater for transgenic lines. Exudation of phytase by transgenic T. subterraneum allowed utilization of P from phytate in non‐sorbing, sterile laboratory media, but was less effective when plants were grown in soil. Release of extracellular phytase is therefore not the only requirement for the acquisition of P from endogenous soil phytate by plants.
A critical analysis of the causes of boron toxicity in plants
Authors: REID R. J. , HAYES J. E. , POST A. , STANGOULIS J. C. R. , GRAHAM R. D.
Published: November 2004

This study investigated the main factors contributing to boron toxicity in plants. Growth was rapidly inhibited by internal B concentrations in the range 1–5 m m across a range of plant types that included monocot, dicot and algal species. In contrast, mature cells were able to withstand up to 60 m m B for several days. In wheat, rapid inhibition of root growth occurred if high B was applied to the root tip, but not if high B was applied to mature sections of the root. In leaves, there were gradations in B concentrations that correlated with visible symptoms of toxicity. However, there was no evidence to support the hypothesis that toxicity in leaves is due to osmotic stress induced by the accumulation of B. Analysis of the sensitivity to B of a range of metabolic processes including photosynthesis, respiration and protein synthesis leads to the conclusion that growth is not restricted by effects of B on energy supply and not directly by inhibition of protein synthesis. At higher B concentrations, many cellular activities were found to be partially inhibited and the toxicity to mature tissues was therefore considered not to arise from the disruption of a single process, but from the accumulated retardation of many cellular processes, exacerbated in light by photo‐oxidative stress.
Dynamic photo‐inhibition and carbon gain in a C4and a C3grass native to high latitudes
Authors: KUBIEN D. S. , SAGE R. F.
Published: November 2004

C4plants are rare in the cool climates characteristic of high latitudes and altitudes, perhaps because of an enhanced susceptibility to photo‐inhibition at low temperatures relative to C3species. In the present study we tested the hypothesis that low‐temperature photo‐inhibition is more detrimental to carbon gain in the C4grassMuhlenbergia glomeratathan the C3speciesCalamogrostis Canadensis. These grasses occur together in boreal fens in northern Canada. Plants were grown under cool (14/10 °C day/night) and warm (26/22 °C) temperatures before measurement of the light responses of photosynthesis and chlorophyll fluorescence at different temperatures. Cool growth temperatures led to reduced rates of photosynthesis inM. glomerataat all measurement temperatures, but had a smaller effect on the C3species. In both species the amount of xanthophyll cycle pigments increased when plants were grown at 14/10 °C, and inM. glomeratathe xanthophyll epoxidation state was greatly reduced. The detrimental effect of low growth temperature on photosynthesis inM. glomeratawas almost completely reversed by a 24‐h exposure to the warm‐temperature regime. These data indicate that reversible dynamic photo‐inhibition is a strategy by which C4species may tolerate cool climates and overcome the Rubisco limitation that is prevalent at low temperatures in C4plants.