bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of temperature gradient gel electrophoresis for the analysis of prey DNA within the guts of invertebrate predators
Authors: Harper G.L. , Sheppard S.K. , Harwood J.D. , Read D.S. , Glen D.M. , Bruford M.W. , Symondson W.O.C.
Published: May 2006

The utility of temperature gradient gel electrophoresis (TGGE) as a means of analysing the gut contents of predators was evaluated. Generalist predators consume multiple prey species and a species-specific primer approach may not always be a practical means of analysing predator responses to prey diversity in complex and biodiverse ecosystems. General invertebrate primers were used to amplify the gut contents of predators, generating banding patterns that identified component prey remains. There was no evidence of dominance of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) by predator DNA. When applied to field samples of the carabid predatorPterostichus melanarius(Illiger) nine banding patterns were detected, including one for aphids. To further distinguish between species, group-specific primers were designed to separate species of earthworm and aphid. TGGE of the earthworm PCR products generated banding patterns that varied with haplotype in some species. Aphid and earthworm DNA could be detected in the guts of carabids for up to 24 h using TGGE. InP. melanarius, with low numbers of prey per insect gut (mean < 3), interpretation of banding patterns proved to be tractable. Potential problems of interpretation of TGGE gels caused by multiple prey bands, cryptic bands, haplotype variation, taxonomic uncertainties (especially with regard to earthworms), secondary predation, scavenging and presence of parasites and parasitoids in the prey or the predators, are discussed. The results suggest that PCR, using combinations of general invertebrate and group-specific primers followed by TGGE, provides a potentially useful approach to the analysis of multiple uncharacterized prey in predators.
Comparing growth patterns among field populations of cereal aphids reveals factors limiting their maximum abundance
Authors: Honek A. , Jarosik V. , Dixon A.F.G.
Published: May 2006

Cereal stands in central Europe are commonly infested with three species of aphids that may become serious pests. With increasing abundance, the proportion of a particular species in the total aphid population may remain constant, suggesting a density-independent exponential growth, or the proportion can change, suggesting density-dependent constraints on growth. The constraints that affect particular species, and thus their relative abundance, were studied. The proportionality between maximum abundances of the cereal aphids was studied using a 10-year census of the numbers of aphids infesting 268 winter wheat plots. For two species their abundance on leaves and ears was compared. With increasing aphid density the maximum abundance of Rhopalosiphum padi (Linnaeus) remained proportional, but not that of Sitobion avenae (Fabricius), which was constrained by the smaller surface area of ears compared to leaves. There was no evidence of inter-specific competition. Maximum abundance of R. padi and Metopolophium dirhodum (Walker) on leaves did not change proportionally as the proportion of M. dirhodum decreased with increasing overall aphid density. This decrease was probably caused by the restricted distribution of M. dirhodum, which is confined to leaves, where space is limiting. No change in proportion between populations was detected when the average densities were below 0.54 aphids per leaf or ear. Non-proportional relationships between aphid populations appeared to be due to spatial constraints, acting upon the more abundant population. Detecting the limitation of population growth can help with the assessment of when density-independent exponential growth is limited by density-dependent factors. This information may help in the development of models of cereal aphid population dynamics.
The effect of temperature and humidity on the bionomics of six African egg parasitoids (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae)
Authors: Kalyebi A. , Overholt W.A. , Schulthess F. , Mueke J.M. , Sithanantham S.
Published: May 2006

The life table statistics of six native Kenyan species/strains ofTrichogrammaandTrichogrammatoideawere established using a factitious hostCorcyra cephalonica, Stainton (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), at eight different temperatures (10, 15, 20, 25, 28, 30, 32 and 35°C) and two humidity levels (40–50 and 70–80%). The objective was to select insects with superior attributes for augmentative release against lepidopteran pests in horticultural crops. Both temperature and humidity affected developmental time and life table parameters of the parasitoids but temperature played a more critical role. Developmental time was inversely related to temperature. The intrinsic and finite rates of increase increased with temperature up to 30°C. Both net reproduction rate and intrinsic rate of increase were higher at the lower humidity. Temperature inversely affected generation time of parasitoid strains regardless of the relative humidity. Two strains ofTrichogrammasp. nr.mwanzaicollected from both low and medium altitudes andTrichogrammatoideasp. nr.luteafrom the mid-altitudes, were better adapted to both low and high temperatures than the other strains, as indicated by the high intrinsic and net reproductive rates, at both humidity levels. These three strains appear to be promising candidates for augmentation biocontrol against the African bollwormHelicoverpa armigerain Kenya.
Coffee berry borer Hypothenemus hampei (Coleoptera: Curculionidae): searching for sustainable control strategies
Authors: Jaramillo J. , Borgemeister C. , Baker P.
Published: May 2006

The coffee berry borer Hypothenemus hampei (Ferrari) is the most serious pest of the world's most valuable tropical export crop. Since the last review on this insect was published six years ago, many new studies have contributed to an improved insight into the biology and ecology of the beetle, and have indicated new avenues for integrated and biological control. The latest developments in research, both laboratory and field, on the pest, its natural enemies and their implications for integrated control of H. hampei are summarized, with a particular focus on the situation in The Americas. Lately, the global coffee industry has changed radically; it has suffered a long cycle of lowest-ever world market prices caused by overproduction and technological change. At the same time, the advent of sustainable certification schemes has had a major impact on the industry. The role of integrated pest management and biological control of H. hampei in an era of changes in the coffee industry is discussed.
Synthesis and spectroscopic properties of alkali metal derivatives of tris{(diphenylphosphino)dimethylsilyl} methane
Authors: Gupta Sushil K. , Kelkar Anoop
Published: May 2006

The organosodium and -potassium derivatives of the type, (Ph2PMe2Si)3CM, (M = Na (2) or K (3)), have been synthesized by the metallation of tris{(diphenylphosphino)-dimethylsilyl}-methane, (Ph2PMe2Si)3CH, I, with MeM (M = Na or K) in THF or Et2O. Compound 2 has also been synthesized in improved yield from [Li(tmen)2][C(SiMe2PPh2)3] (1) and NaOBut in n-heptane. Compounds 2 and 3 have been characterized by multinuclear NMR studies. These indicate that negative charge associated with the central carbon atom and its attached SiMe2PPh2 groups is delocalized over the CSi3 core of the carbanion.
Observations of Alanine Aminotransferase and Aspartate Aminotransferase in THRIVE Studies Treated Orally with Ximelagatran
Authors: Harenberg Job , Jörg Ingrid , Weiss Christel
Published: May 2006

Treatment of acute venous thromboembolism (VTE) and prophylaxis of recurrent events has been investigated in the THRIVE (THRombin Inhibitor in Venous ThrombeEmbolism) Treatment and the THRIVE III trial using the oral direct thrombin inhibitor ximelagatran. Alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) increased in 9.6% and 6.4% of patients in the THRIVE Treatment and THRIVE III trials, respectively. The authors analysed the time course of the ALAT and in additionally of aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT) in blood from 52 and 23 patients participating in the THRIVE Treatment and the THRIVE III trials in Germany. Analysis of variance for repeated measures and t test were performed. In the THRIVE Treatment trial, ALAT was significantly higher at week 2 for enoxaparin/warfarin ( p = .0039, t test) and at months 3 and 6 for ximelagatran ( p = .0453, p = .0014, respectively). ASAT and ASAT/ALAT ratio values did not increase and not differ for both groups. In the THRIVE III trial, ALAT and ASAT did not increase and did not differ compared to the comparator placebo. 2 × 36 mg Ximelagatran, induced higher ALAT values at months 3 and 6 compared to 2 × 24 mg ximelagatran ( p = .0105, p = .0063, respectively). ASAT did not differ between the two doses of ximelagatran. The ASAT/ALAT ratios were lower at week 2 for enoxaparin/warfarin ( t-test, p = .0032) and at month 3 and 6 for 2 × 36 mg versus warfarin or 2 × 24 mg Ximelagatran ( p between .0187 and .0002). The authors conclude that ALAT increases dose dependently during therapy with ximelagatran. The less frequent and lower increase of ASAT values compared to ALAT values indicates a nontoxic effect of ximelagatran on liver cells.
The Effects of Vehicles on the Human Dermal Irritation Potentials of Allyl Esters
Authors: Politano Valerie T. , Isola Daniel A. , Lalko Jon , Api Anne Marie
Published: May 2006

Allyl esters, frequently used in the fragrance industry, often contain a certain percentage of free allyl alcohol. Allyl alcohol is known to have a potential for delayed skin irritation. Also present in the finished product are different solvent systems, or vehicles, which are used to deliver the fragrances based upon their intended application. This study was conducted to determine whether different vehicles affect the skin irritation potential of five different allyl esters. The allyl esters tested were allyl amyl glycolate, allyl caproate, allyl (cyclohexyloxy)acetate, allyl cyclohexylpropionate, and allyl phenoxyacetate in the vehicles diethyl phthalate, 3:1 diethyl phthalate:ethanol, and 1:3 diethyl phthalate:ethanol at concentrations of 0.1%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 2.0% ( w/w). A modified cumulative irritation test was conducted in 129 human subjects. Test materials (0.3 ml) were applied under occlusion to skin sites on the back for 1 day (24 h) using Hill Top chambers. Irritation was assessed at 1, 2, 4, and 5 days following application of test materials. Cumulative irritation scores varied considerably among test materials. There were no delayed irritation observations. The highest irritation scores were observed at the 2.0% concentration for all test materials. The irritation scores for allyl amyl glycolate, allyl (cyclohexyloxy)acetate, and allyl phenoxyacetate were highest in 1:3 diethyl phthalate:ethanol, thus the resulting calculated no-observed-effect levels, 0.12%, 0.03%, and 0%, respectively, were much lower for this vehicle compared to the diethyl phthalate vehicle, 0.33%, 0.26%, 0.25%, respectively. These data showed a trend for lower concentration thresholds to induce irritation when higher levels of ethanol were used in the vehicle.
Lead Absorption and Excretion in Rats Given Insoluble Salts of Pectin and Alginate
Authors: Khotimchenko Maxim , Serguschenko Irina , Khotimchenko Yuri
Published: May 2006

Exposure to environmental lead remains a widespread problem in most industrialized countries. Usage of modern agents purposed for elimination of heavy metals as well as for therapy and prevention of chronic poisoning does frequently result in toxic signs. Dietary nonstarch polysaccharides were suggested to be effective when used for this purpose. The present study was conducted to estimate metal binding capacity and effects of calcium salts of pectate and alginate on lead absorption, distribution, and removal with feces. Under in vitro conditions calcium alginate showed the highest lead-binding capacity in comparison with other agents studied. Metal binding capacity of calcium pectate was slightly lower. In rats simultaneous administration of lead acetate and suspensions containing calcium alginate or calcium pectate prevented metal absorption and significantly reduced lead accumulation in inner organs and femur. In experiments estimating lead removal from inner organs and femur in rats preliminary exposed to the heavy metal, calcium alginate and calcium pectate were the most effective agents studied in comparison with others, as indicated by reduced lead concentration in organs and femur as well as increased metal content in feces of laboratory animals. The results suggest that calcium pectate and calcium alginate may be considered perspective dietary compounds purposed for prevention and treatment of chronic lead poisoning.
Developmental Toxicity Study of Pure trans-Capsaicin in Rats and Rabbits
Authors: Chanda Sanjay , Sharper Valerie , Hoberman Alan , Bley Keith
Published: May 2006

Human environmental and dietary exposure to trans-capsaicin—the pungent ingredient in chili peppers—is ubiquitous. Moreover, based on the highly selective agonism of trans-capsaicin for TRPV1 receptors, drug products containing high concentrations of trans-capsaicin are under development as analgesics. For instance, a high-concentration (8% w/ w) pure trans-capsaicin dermal patch (designated NGX-4010) is in advanced clinical evaluation for the management of neuropathic pain of peripheral origin. Our objective was to investigate effects of trans-capsaicin on embryo/fetal development, consequent to maternal exposure, from implantation to closure of the hard palate. trans-Capsaicin was delivered systemically by means of either a patch [NGX-4010 (25, 37.5, or 50 cm2)] to pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats on days of presumed gestation (DGs) 7 through 17, or via a 10% w/ v capsaicin liquid formulation (CLF), at dosages of 3, 6.5 or 13 μl/cm2 applied to a 200-cm2 area on the back on DGs 7 though 19 to timed-mated New Zealand white rabbits. In rats, the maternal no-observable-effect level (NOEL) was less than 25 cm2 but no cesarean-sectioning or litter parameters were affected by application of NGX-4010 at patch sizes as high as 50 cm2. The only test article–related observations were delays in skeletal ossification, evident as significant reductions in the average number of metatarsals and ossified hindlimb and forelimb phalanges that occurred in the 50 cm2 NGX-4010 dose group. Although the values for ossified metatarsals were outside the historical control range, ossified hindlimb and forelimb phalanges were within historical control ranges. No other gross external, soft tissue, or skeletal fetal alterations (malformations or variations) were caused by application of the NGX-4010. In rabbits, the maternal NOEL was less than 3 μl/cm2 CLF (or 0.3 mg/cm2 trans-capsaicin) per 200 cm2, but no cesarean-sectioning or litter parameters were affected. No fetal alterations (malformations or variations) were caused by dosages of CLF as high as 13 μl/cm2 (or 1.3 mg/cm2 trans-capsaicin). Taken together, these data suggest that trans-capsaicin should not be considered a developmental toxicant.
Paxillin phosphorylation at Ser273 localizes a GIT1–PIX–PAK complex and regulates adhesion and protrusion dynamics
Authors: Nayal Anjana , Webb Donna J. , Brown Claire M. , Schaefer Erik M. , Vicente-Manzanares Miguel , Horwitz Alan Rick
Published: May 2006

Continuous adhesion formation and disassembly (adhesion turnover) in the protrusions of migrating cells is regulated by unclear mechanisms. We show that p21-activated kinase (PAK)–induced phosphorylation of serine 273 in paxillin is a critical regulator of this turnover. Paxillin-S273 phosphorylation dramatically increases migration, protrusion, and adhesion turnover by increasing paxillin–GIT1 binding and promoting the localization of a GIT1–PIX–PAK signaling module near the leading edge. Mutants that interfere with the formation of this ternary module abrogate the effects of paxillin-S273 phosphorylation. PAK-dependent paxillin-S273 phosphorylation functions in a positive-feedback loop, as active PAK, active Rac, and myosin II activity are all downstream effectors of this turnover pathway. Finally, our studies led us to identify in highly motile cells a class of small adhesions that reside near the leading edge, turnover in 20–30 s, and resemble those seen with paxillin-S273 phosphorylation. These adhesions appear to be regulated by the GIT1–PIX–PAK module near the leading edge.
Direct membrane protein–DNA interactions required early in nuclear envelope assembly
Authors: Ulbert Sebastian , Platani Melpomeni , Boue Stephanie , Mattaj Iain W.
Published: May 2006

Among the earliest events in postmitotic nuclear envelope (NE) assembly are the interactions between chromatin and the membranes that will fuse to form the NE.

It has been proposed that interactions between integral NE proteins and chromatin proteins mediate initial membrane recruitment to chromatin. We show that several transmembrane NE proteins bind to DNA directly and that NE membrane proteins as a class are enriched in long, basic domains that potentially bind DNA. Membrane fractions that are essential for NE formation are shown to bind directly to protein-free DNA, and our data suggest that these interactions are critical for early steps in NE assembly.
Bilateral Integrative Medicine, Obviously
Authors: Stumpf Steven H. , Shapiro Simon J.
Published: May 2006

Unstated and unacknowledged bias has a profound impact on the nature and implementation of integrative education models. Integrative education is the process of training conventional biomedical and traditional Chinese medicine practitioners in each tradition such that patient care may be effectively coordinated. A bilateral education model ensures that students in each tradition are cross‐taught by experts from the ‘other’ tradition, imparting knowledge and values in unison. Acculturation is foundational to bilateral integrative medical education and practice. Principles are discussed for an open‐minded bilateral educational model that can result in a new generation of integrative medicine teachers.
AINTEGUMENTA Contributes to Organ Polarity and Regulates Growth of Lateral Organs in Combination with YABBY Genes
Authors: Nole-Wilson Staci , Krizek Beth A.
Published: May 2006

Lateral organs in flowering plants display polarity along their adaxial-abaxial axis with distinct cell types forming at different positions along this axis. Members of three classes of transcription factors in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana; the Class III homeodomain/leucine zipper [HD-ZIP] proteins, KANADI proteins, and YABBY proteins) are expressed in either the adaxial or abaxial domain of organ primordia where they confer these respective identities. Little is known about the factors that act upstream of these polarity-determining genes to regulate their expression. We have investigated the relationship between AINTEGUMENTA (ANT), a gene that promotes initiation and growth of lateral organ primordia, and polarity genes. Although ant single mutants do not display any obvious defects in organ polarity, loss of ANT activity in combination with mutations in one or more YABBY genes results in polarity defects greater than those observed in the yabby mutants alone. Our results suggest that ANT acts in combination with the YABBY gene FILAMENTOUS FLOWER (FIL) to promote organ polarity by up-regulating the expression of the adaxial-specifying HD-ZIP gene PHABULOSA. Furthermore, we show that ANT acts with FIL to up-regulate expression of the floral homeotic gene APETALA3. Our work defines new roles for ANT in the development of lateral organs.
Quantitative Trait Loci Analysis of Primary Cell Wall Composition in Arabidopsis
Authors: Mouille Grégory , Witucka-Wall Hanna , Bruyant Marie-Pierre , Loudet Olivier , Pelletier Sandra , Rihouey Christophe , Lerouxel Olivier , Lerouge Patrice , Höfte Herman , Pauly Markus
Published: May 2006

Quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis was used to identify genes underlying natural variation in primary cell wall composition in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). The cell walls of dark-grown seedlings of a Bay-0 × Shahdara recombinant inbred line population were analyzed using three miniaturized global cell wall fingerprinting techniques: monosaccharide composition analysis by gas chromatography, xyloglucan oligosaccharide mass profiling, and whole-wall Fourier-transform infrared microspectroscopy. Heritable variation and transgression were observed for the arabinose-rhamnose ratio, xyloglucan side-chain composition (including O-acetylation levels), and absorbance for a subset of Fourier-transform infrared wavenumbers. In total, 33 QTL, corresponding to at least 11 different loci controlling dark-grown hypocotyl length, pectin composition, and levels of xyloglucan fucosylation and O-acetylation, were identified. One major QTL, accounting for 51% of the variation in the arabinose-rhamnose ratio, affected the number of arabinan side chains presumably attached to the pectic polysaccharide rhamnogalacturonan I, paving the way to positional cloning of the first gene underlying natural variation in pectin structure. Several QTL were found to be colocalized, which may have implications for the regulation of xyloglucan metabolism. These results demonstrate the feasibility of combining fingerprinting techniques, natural variation, and quantitative genetics to gain original insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying the structure and metabolism of cell wall polysaccharides.
Comparative Genomic Analysis Revealed a Gene for Monoglucosyldiacylglycerol Synthase, an Enzyme for Photosynthetic Membrane Lipid Synthesis in Cyanobacteria
Authors: Awai Koichiro , Kakimoto Takatoshi , Awai Chie , Kaneko Takakazu , Nakamura Yuki , Takamiya Ken-ichiro , Wada Hajime , Ohta Hiroyuki
Published: May 2006

Cyanobacteria have a thylakoid lipid composition very similar to that of plant chloroplasts, yet cyanobacteria are proposed to synthesize monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG), a major membrane polar lipid in photosynthetic membranes, by a different pathway. In addition, plant MGDG synthase has been cloned, but no ortholog has been reported in cyanobacterial genomes. We report here identification of the gene for monoglucosyldiacylglycerol (MGlcDG) synthase, which catalyzes the first step of galactolipid synthesis in cyanobacteria. Using comparative genomic analysis, candidates for the gene were selected based on the criteria that the enzyme activity is conserved between two species of cyanobacteria (unicellular [Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803] and filamentous [Anabaena sp. PCC 7120]), and we assumed three characteristics of the enzyme; namely, it harbors a glycosyltransferase motif, falls into a category of genes with unknown function, and shares significant similarity in amino acid sequence between these two cyanobacteria. By a motif search of all genes of Synechocystis, BLAST searches, and similarity searches between these two cyanobacteria, we identified four candidates for the enzyme that have all the characteristics we predicted. When expressed in Escherichia coli, one of the Synechocystis candidate proteins showed MGlcDG synthase activity in a UDP-glucose-dependent manner. The ortholog in Anabaena also showed the same activity. The enzyme was predicted to require a divalent cation for its activity, and this was confirmed by biochemical analysis. The MGlcDG synthase and the plant MGDG synthase shared low similarity, supporting the presumption that cyanobacteria and plants utilize different pathways to synthesize MGDG.
Targeting of the Plant Vacuolar Sorting Receptor BP80 Is Dependent on Multiple Sorting Signals in the Cytosolic Tail
Authors: daSilva Luis L.P. , Foresti Ombretta , Denecke Jurgen
Published: May 2006

Although signals for vacuolar sorting of soluble proteins are well described, we have yet to learn how the plant vacuolar sorting receptor BP80 reaches its correct destination and recycles. To shed light on receptor targeting, we used an in vivo competition assay in which a truncated receptor (green fluorescent protein-BP80) specifically competes with sorting machinery and causes hypersecretion of BP80-ligands from tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) leaf protoplasts. We show that both the transmembrane domain and the cytosolic tail of BP80 contain information necessary for efficient progress to the prevacuolar compartment (PVC). Furthermore, the tail must be exposed on the correct membrane surface to compete with sorting machinery. Mutational analysis of conserved residues revealed that multiple sequence motifs are necessary for competition, one of which is a typical Tyr-based motif (YXXΦ). Substitution of Tyr-612 for Ala causes partial retention in the Golgi apparatus, mistargeting to the plasma membrane (PM), and slower progress to the PVC. A role in Golgi-to-PVC transport was confirmed by generating the corresponding mutation on full-length BP80. The mutant receptor was partially mistargeted to the PM and induced the secretion of a coexpressed BP80-ligand. Further mutants indicate that the cytosolic tail is likely to contain other information besides the YXXΦ motif, possibly for endoplasmic reticulum export, endocytosis from the PM, and PVC-to-Golgi recycling.
Manufacturers′ Redress Actions: Testing Response Error
Authors: Mitchell V.‐W. , Critchlow C.
Published: May 2006

The topic of consumer complaining has been given limelight in
recent years with a spate of food scares, new legislation in the food
industry and the Citizen′s Charter in public services. Reports an
investigation into complaint handling in the UK grocery market using a
bogus complaint letter and a self‐report survey of manufacturers. The
two methods produced substantially different results and highlight the
degree of response error in self‐report survey research. The research
also addressed the question of fraudulent complaints and their
detection.
The Impact of New Food Legislation on the Hotel Industry
Authors: Griffith C.J. , Coleman P.D.
Published: May 2006

Reports on a survey assessing hoteliers′ knowledge and
understanding of the recently introduced Food Safety Act 1990 and Food
Hygiene (Amendment) Regulations 1990/1991. Forty per cent of hotels in
the Cardiff area (30 in all) were approached to participate, ten
refused, eight of these being small hotels (under 20 bedrooms).
Knowledge and understanding of the new legislation was generally poor
especially amongst the managers of small hotels. The main offences,
enforcement procedures, penalties and temperatures required in the
legislation were particularly poorly understood. Managers in larger
chain‐owned hotels had the greatest levels of knowledge and
understanding and had made the most progress towards being able to show
“due diligence”. Makes recommendations for improved
communication of food safety information.
Food Consumption Patterns: An Elderly Population in Leicester Receiving Meals on Wheels
Authors: Tilston C.H. , Neale R.J. , Gregson K. , Tyne C.H.
Published: May 2006

Presents the results of a self‐completed questionnaire aimed at
determining the dietary patterns of all meals on wheels (MOW) for
elderly recipients in Leicester which was distributed to 1,500 people in
November 1990. A response rate of 75 per cent was achieved (32.8 per
cent male and 67.2 per cent female), the greatest proportion being in
the 80‐89 age range, with 91.1 per cent of the total number of
recipients receiving four or five meals per week from the MOW service.
Seventy‐four per cent of all recipients reported consuming other meals
or snacks in addition to their MOW. The remaining 26 per cent failed to
report eating anything else but their MOW. Of the total who reported
eating other meals or snacks, 73.9 per cent reported they had breakfast,
12.8 per cent a mid‐morning snack, 23.4 per cent a mid‐afternoon snack,
58.8 per cent an evening meal/snack and 26 per cent supper. Presents a
further breakdown of the main food patterns on each of these eating
occasions, the major foods being convenience (bread, biscuits, cake etc)
with little evidence of hot meal preparation.
Food Poisoning: The Rise Continues
Authors: Lacey R.W.
Published: May 2006

Food‐borne infections due to campylobacter, shigella, salmonella
and E. coli 0157 have shown a real increase three to four fold.
Argues that between the mid‐1980s and 1992 the reasons are
multifactorial and include unsafe farming methods, possibly a
deterioration in water quality, problems associated with moist food
processing and changes in social habitats.
Is Further Restructuring Likely in the European Food and Drinks Industry?
Authors: Diederichs Klaus
Published: May 2006

Consider the question posed in the title from the viewpoint of an
investment banker based with J.P. Morgan, who has advised clients in the
food and drinks industry over various transactions. Reviews past
activity in mergers and acquisitions as a need for consolidation to gain
market advantage and economics of scale; and access into the wider
European market. Advises that further restructuring and consolidation is
necessary and inevitable in an industry which is still fragmented; and
that acquiring products and brands which are market leaders is still a
better option than trying to create new ones. Considers in depth the
influencing factors and the opportunities to possess focused product
portfolios, category leadership and pan‐European markets. Draws on
examples of major companies which have practical sound acquisition
strategies, fast de‐leveraging after acquisition and created long‐term
shareholder value.
Lactic Acid Bacteria
Authors: Robinson Richard K.
Published: May 2006

Discusses the exploitation of the metabolic activities of the
lactic acid bacteria in the manufacture of dairy products. Gives the two
main “starter culture” groups as: (1) mesophiles; and (2)
thermophiles; and considers the relevance to the consumer of the
presence of species from these groups in food products. Concludes that
the presence of viable mesophiles is of limited significance in
nutritional terms; but that the presence of thermophiles in bio‐yogurts
and similar items will benefit the consumer, if these items are consumed
on a regular basis.
The Promotion of Healthy Eating in Ireland
Authors: Reid Vivien , O’Dwyer Ursula
Published: May 2006

Explains current developments in the promotion of healthy eating in
Ireland. In particular, shows how the various initiatives involving
Government, hospitals and voluntary organizations are reaching out into
the community.
Quorn: Case Study of a Healthy Food Ingredient
Authors: Wheelock Verner
Published: May 2006

Describes a genuinely new food ingredient which has been on the
market for eight years. Considers some of the scientific studies which
demonstrate that Quorn can be very valuable for helping consumers to
adjust to the dietary recommendations.
Graphical Nutritional Labelling: The Need for Consumer Research
Authors: Williams Carol
Published: May 2006

Providing interpretative or graphical nutrition information on food
labels could help consumers understand more about the nutritional
content of foods and facilitate easier food choices. The EC Nutritional
Labelling Directive (1990) allows for the future development of EC
formats for graphic nutritional labelling – and the Government′s
Food Advisory Committee has recently sought the views of interested
parties on possible schemes. There has been considerable discussion on
the relative merits of different interpretative schemes but this has
tended to focus on scientific and legislative concerns with accuracy,
rather than the needs of consumers. Argues that, to determine both the
numerical basis of graphical information (the criteria) and the method
in which it is conveyed (the format), further consumer research is
necessary.
“Snack Foods”, Overeating and Obesity: Relationships with Food Composition, Palatability and Eating Behaviour
Authors: Mela David J. , Rogers Peter J.
Published: May 2006

Briefly reviews issues of palatability, food composition, energy metabolism, and eating behaviour in relation to overeating and obesity, with a particular emphasis on the possible role of popular, sweet and high‐fat “snack” foods. Consumption of such foods may be one contributor to a high overall dietary fat intake. However, while it is increasingly clear that relative intakes of fat (but not carbohydrate) may be causally associated with the development of obesity, it is difficult to relate this condition to the consumption of any single food or food group. Many popular “snack” foods present problems of control for individuals attempting to restrict or reduce their energy intakes and, by virtue of the high fat content and energy density of such foods, they may be viewed as possible contributors to overeating amongst susceptible individuals.
Consumers as Sensory Panellists
Authors: Seaman Claire E.A. , Hughes Alan H. , Hinks Charles E. , Parry Doreen A.
Published: May 2006

Reports on evaluation of the reliability and consistency with which
consumers assessed roast beef L. dorsi by presenting duplicate
samples under standardized conditions in a sensory evaluation
laboratory. Seven‐point hedonic scales were used, which were designed to
assess flavour, tenderness, juiciness and overall eating quality.
Results indicate that the samples were evaluated with very high levels
of reliability and consistency, despite major differences in the eating
qualities of the beef L. dorsi. Variation greater than ±
1 point on the hedonic scale was rare. While Quantitative Descriptive
Sensory Profiling (QSP) provides detailed information on the eating
qualities of foods, using panellists trained to identify small
differences in specific foods, consumers may be used as sensory
panellists to provide information on the likely impact on the consuming
public. Under certain circumstances, consumers may also be a much more
convenient choice for sensory panellists.
Children, Parents and Food
Authors: Birch Leann L.
Published: May 2006

Examines aspects of the child′s early experience with food and
eating in order to reveal how these experiences shape children′s food
acceptance patterns. The transition from suckling to consuming an
omnivorous diet is critical to the child′s growth and health. Despite
the necessity of a varied diet, children do not readily accept new
foods, and are often very neophobic. Repeated experience is necessary to
transform the initial neophobic response. The social contexts and
physiological consequences of eating also shape children′s food
acceptance patterns through associative conditioning, in which foods′
sensory cues are associated with the contexts and consequences of
ingestion. Children are responsive to the energy density of foods and
can adjust intake based on foods′ energy density. Such responsiveness is
easily disrupted when parents employ child‐feeding tactics to control
what and how much children will eat. Limited evidence suggests that such
child‐feeding practices may focus the child away from hunger and
satiety, impeding the development of internal controls of food intake in
children.
Bases of a Cognitive Technology for Food Quality
Authors: Freeman R.P.J. , Richardson N.J. , Kendal‐Reed M.S. , Booth D.A.
Published: May 2006

Cognitive technology provides a response‐sensitivity metric for
interactions between major influences on a response by an individual
consumer. There is no restriction on the types of influence or response
which can be measured, so long as at least two normal levels (or the
presence and absence) of the influence can be tested independently of
variations in other influences. Illustrates this novel methodology for
open‐ended concept tests, free‐choice profiling of physical products,
interactions among tastes, aromas and textures, and the integration of a
sensory characteristic with a conceptual attribute.
The Development of Opportunities for Regional Food Suppliers
Authors: Carter Sara , Shaw Susan A.
Published: May 2006

Market trends have offered an incentive to retailers to
differentiate product assortments by region, whilst new developments in
purchasing technology have enabled retail buyers to fragment orders by
region and even by store and to tranship between regions. Reports on an
initiative to take advantage of recent developments and to facilitate
the access of small, regionally‐based suppliers to retail food multiples
through a series of Meet the Buyer events. Presents preliminary results
of a survey of 123 small suppliers and 28 retail buyers who have
participated in these events.
Information Needs and Their Satisfaction in a Utility
Company
Authors: Sattar Chaudhry Abdus , ur Rehman Sajjad
Published: May 2006

Reports results of a study of information needs in a utility
company in Saudi Arabia. Selected technical and administrative staff
were interviewed and the active involvement of the user group in the
study was ensured by enlisting the support of the organization′s top
management. The study also served to educate the company staff in the
usefulness of information services. As a result of the study the
previously traditional library service of the company was upgraded to a
sophisticated information centre. The collections of technical and
reference sources were increased and services expanded. A programme of
user awareness was begun and a computerized information retrieval system
established.
Public Relations in Academic Libraries
Authors: Aitufe T.A.
Published: May 2006

A brief survey of the public relations industry is followed by an
account of the specific applications of public relations to university
libraries. The process begins with identification of the library′s aims
and objectives and of its main client bodies. Discusses the full range
of public relations skills, including interpersonal skills, service
quality and library promotion by all means. Stresses the importance of
public relations to a university library.
Obstacles to Information Technology Transfer to the Third
World
Authors: Mwinyimbegu R.M.
Published: May 2006

Considers the factors hindering the transfer of information
technology and subsequent automation of information management systems
in developing countries. The same inhibiting factors which face
conventional technology transfer, are identified for information
technology transfer. Highlights the failure of policy makers in the
Third World to grasp the importance of information and to plan for its
collection and management: criticizes the theory of appropriate
technology as seeming to aid instead of potential aiding agencies.
Stresses the need for positive policies towards information technology
in both aiding agencies and recipient governments and identifies the
most common obstacles hindering introduction and management of
information technology in developing countries.
Research Notes, The Impact of Age on the Job Satisfaction of Accountants
Authors: Beng Ang Kong , Tee Goh Chye , Chye Koh Hian
Published: May 2006

Analyses the effects of age on the level of job satisfaction of
accountants in Singapore. Four categories of accountants namely,
government auditors, internal auditors, non‐auditor accountants, and
external auditors were identified according to the nature of work
performed by each, i.e. job‐type. Results of a three‐way analysis of
variance (ANOVA) show that both age and job type, taken individually,
have a direct significant effect on job satisfaction. In addition, there
is also an interaction effect between age and job‐type on job
satisfaction. In general, older accountants are more satisfied with
their jobs than their younger counterparts. However their satisfaction
increases at varying rates depending on their job types.
Careers in Personnel Management
Authors: Monks Kathy
Published: May 2006

Considers the career profiles of 103 personnel specialists from
research carried out in Ireland, in 1989/1990. The study examined
education and training, career progression, reasons for working in
personnel, membership of the Institute of Personnel Management and the
differences in male and female careers. The research indicated that
career progress in personnel management is more rapid if the individual
is male and in possession of a postgraduate degree. The initial choice
of organization may be critical to the type of career experienced. Some
personnel specialists will find themselves confined to the resolution of
industrial relations disputes or the provision of an administrative
support system. For others a career in personnel will offer the
opportunity of involvement in a wide range of activities and
initiatives. The research indicated that there may be little movement
between these two career paths.
Image and Substance: The Management of Performance as Rhetoric or Reality?
Authors: Bowles Martin L. , Coates G.
Published: May 2006

Much has been written about performance appraisal (PA) in terms of
its outcomes: little however, has been focused on the mediation of
actual practice, beyond simple descriptions informing its
implementation. Seeks first to understand the historical implications of
contemporary PA; second, examines the modern usage of PA with regard to
its emphasis on managing and controlling the “image” of
performance, which is then illustrated by the use of survey research,
gathered from West Midlands organizations. Concludes that the original
intentions of PA to manage physical performance have increasingly
failed, and become superseded by the management of the
“impression” of performance by both employers and employees.
Characteristics of the Mentoring Experience: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Barton Cunningham J. , Eberle Ted
Published: May 2006

Describes the benefits of mentoring in relation to training
personnel and gives guidelines on selecting suitable role models as
mentors. Discusses in depth the essentials of a good, solid
mentor‐prot\?\g\?\ relationship.
Pay in the Boardroom: Practices and Procedures
Authors: Main Brian G.M.
Published: May 2006

Using a series of interviews with top executives conducted between October 1992 and April 1993 in 24 large British companies, discusses the way that top executive pay is determined. Finds that there are well ordered practices and procedures in place. These are analysed from the perspective of the recommendations of the Cadbury Committee report. The analysis highlights the key role played by non‐executive directors in the process and underscores the importance of the nominations process by which non‐executives are selected. This is also the area where the greatest revision in current practice seems to be required.
Labour Force Skills and Human Resource Management: A Local Economy Perspective
Authors: Knell John
Published: May 2006

The treatment of training and skill issues in much of the recent
empirical work within the HRM tradition, tends to be highly aggregated
and schematic. Few studies have sought systematically to explore in
detail the impact of key economic forces and agencies on the generation
and reproduction of labour force skills over time. Aims to plug that
gap, by examining the skill‐upgrading strategies of certain key actors
– local based firms, new firm entrants, and the local state
– in a local economy undergoing major structural change. Concludes
that the specificities of a particular region, in terms of the nature of
local labour pools and the configuration of institutional forces, can
have a significant influence on the emergent character of HRM
strategies, and their impact on labour force skills.
Trade Unions in the Hotel and Catering Industry: The Views of Hotel Managers
Authors: Aslan Arsène H. , Wood Roy C.
Published: May 2006

Given the principal characteristics of hotel and catering industry
employment – low pay, low job security, high labour turnover,
often arbitrary management – it is a matter of some interest that
the industry is unionized to only a limited extent. Offers a brief
summary of the principal reasons advanced for explaining low
unionization in the industry before proceeding to focus on the attitudes
of hotel managers towards these explanations. Reports research based on
interviews with managers in Scotland, during which individuals were
asked to respond to a range of points with a view to ascertaining the
continuing relevance or otherwise of the findings of previous research.
Principal findings are that a tension exists between a general, if
reluctant, acceptance of the need, by managers, for union representation
in the industry and a belief in their own managerial efficacy which
makes unions irrelevant to their particular circumstances.
Human Resource Management – Time to Exorcize the Militant Tendency
Authors: Hart Tim J.
Published: May 2006

The ascendancy of human resource management (HRM) in recent years
in the UK has been a major issue for both practising managers and
academics interested in this field. Does not seek to review the mass of
material already published on this topic; nor to take a balanced
analytical approach emanating from research. Takes an openly polemical
stance, producing a damning indictment of the impact of HRM on the way
in which employees are treated in work organizations and the wider
social and ecological consequences if HRM practices are allowed to
continue unabated.
Work, Effort and Performance
Authors: McLaverty Peter , Drummond Helga
Published: May 2006

Reports interviews with workers and managers in two organizations,
concerning the relationship between effort and performance at work. The
findings show that a high proportion of those interviewed reported
working longer than their contractual weekly hours without receiving
extra payment and that respondents had a commitment to completing their
work within the deadlines imposed. Effort was seen as coming from
imposed job pressures, not conscious decisions by staff to achieve
self‐determined goals. Managers tended to be unhappy about the poor
relationship between their work effort and their performance outputs.
Workers doing routine jobs, however, had difficulty in saying whether
their time at work was spent effectively. Discusses implications for
quality of service and standards of work.
Employee Relations in Mergers and Acquisitions
Authors: Vinten Gerald
Published: May 2006

The human aspects of mergers and acquisitions receive less emphasis
than the more easily controlled financial aspects. A review of the
existing literature and research suggests that mergers and acquisitions
often fail or are sub‐optimal due to the neglect of these human aspects.
Outlines factors which lead to success. Recommends alternatives which
may minimize the behavioural problems, but this is unlikely to include
the joint venture, since it is quite similar to the full‐blooded merger
in many respects. Human and environmental issues will increasingly be on
the corporate charter.
Employers, Employees and Debt
Authors: Ford Janet , Wilson Marilyn
Published: May 2006

A substantial proportion of people “in debt” are in
employment. Increasingly, employers can be required by the courts to
recover debts for creditors from employees via the attachment of
earnings process. However, there are claims that the process has a range
of negative consequences for both employers and employees, including
costs, lowered motivation, and changes in the recruitment and retention
of labour. Presents data from a recent study of the attachment of
earnings process which assess the validity of a number of these claims.
Draws attention to the differential perceptions of the significance of
attachment on the part of employers and employees and the consequences
of this for managing attachment within employing organizations.
Human Resource Strategy and the Non‐union Phenomenon
Authors: Flood Patrick , Turner Thomas
Published: May 2006

A feature of the industrial landscape in the 1990s is the emergence
of a growing number of non‐union companies. Numerous factors have been
suggested to explain this increase such as an increasingly competitive
product market; fear of unemployment; a shift in managerial attitudes
towards trade unions and the use of human resource management policies
which are inimical to unionism. However, the most comprehensive attempt
to establish the factors which increase the probability of union
avoidance among companies is to be found in the industrial relations
literature in the USA. Based on a survey of Irish manufacturing
companies, evaluates the explanatory framework which has emerged from
this literature and concludes that its validity is questionable in an
Irish context.