bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying Nonspecific TEM β-Lactamase (
bla
TEM
) Genes in a Wastewater Stream
Authors: Lachmayr Karen L. , Kerkhof Lee J. , DiRienzo A. Gregory , Cavanaugh Colleen M. , Ford Timothy E.
Published: November 2008

To control the antibiotic resistance epidemic, it is necessary to understand the distribution of genetic material encoding antibiotic resistance in the environment and how anthropogenic inputs, such as wastewater, affect this distribution. Approximately two-thirds of antibiotics administered to humans are β-lactams, for which the predominant bacterial resistance mechanism is hydrolysis by β-lactamases. Of the β-lactamases, the TEM family is of overriding significance with regard to diversity, prevalence, and distribution. This paper describes the design of DNA probes universal for all known TEM β-lactamase genes and the application of a quantitative PCR assay (also known as Taqman) to quantify these genes in environmental samples. The primer set was used to study whether sewage, both treated and untreated, contributes to the spread of these genes in receiving waters. It was found that while modern sewage treatment technologies reduce the concentrations of these antibiotic resistance genes, the ratio of
bla
TEM
genes to 16S rRNA genes increases with treatment, suggesting that bacteria harboring
bla
TEM
are more likely to survive the treatment process. Thus, β-lactamase genes are being introduced into the environment in significantly higher concentrations than occur naturally, creating reservoirs of increased resistance potential.
Metagenome-Derived Clones Encoding Two Novel Lactonase Family Proteins Involved in Biofilm Inhibition in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Schipper C. , Hornung C. , Bijtenhoorn P. , Quitschau M. , Grond S. , Streit W. R.
Published: November 2008

Here we report the isolation and characterization of three metagenome-derived clones that interfere with bacterial quorum sensing and degrade
N
-(3-oxooctanoyl)-
l
-homoserine lactone (3-oxo-C
8
-HSL). By using a
traI-lacZ
gene fusion, the metagenome-derived clones were identified from a soil DNA library and analyzed. The open reading frames linked to the 3-oxo-C
8
-HSL-degrading activities were designated bpiB01, bpiB04, and bpiB07. While the BpiB07 protein was similar to a known lactonase, no significant similarities were observed for the BpiB01 and BpiB04 proteins or the deduced amino acid sequences. High-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses confirmed that the identified genes encode novel lactone-hydrolyzing enzymes. The original metagenome-derived clones were expressed in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
and employed in motility and biofilm assays. All clones were able to reproducibly inhibit motility in
P
.
aeruginosa
. Furthermore, these genes clearly inhibited biofilm formation in
P
.
aeruginosa
when expressed in
P
.
aeruginosa
PAO1. Thus, this is the first study in which metagenome-derived proteins have been expressed in
P
.
aeruginosa
to successfully inhibit biofilm formation.
Production of Verotoxin and Distribution of O Islands 122 and 43/48 among Verotoxin-Producing
Escherichia coli
O103:H2 Isolates from Cattle and Humans
Authors: Karama Musafiri , Johnson Roger P. , Holtslander Robert , Gyles Carlton L.
Published: November 2008

This study investigated variations in the occurrence of markers of O islands 122 and 43/48 and in verotoxin 1 production in 91 verotoxin-producing
Escherichia coli
(VTEC) O103:H2 strains of bovine and human origins. None of the genes that were investigated appear to be virulence indicators for human O103:H2 VTEC.
Impact of Inactivated Extracellular Proteases on the Modified Flagellin Type III Secretion Pathway of
Bacillus halodurans
Authors: Berger Eldie , du Plessis Erika , Gerber Isak , Crampton Michael , Nxumalo Nolwandle , Louw Maureen
Published: November 2008

The flagellin type III secretion pathway of
Bacillus halodurans
BhFC01 (Δ
hag
) was modified by the inactivation of
fliD
. An in-frame flagellin gene fusion polypeptide construct was expressed, and the heterologous peptides were secreted as flagellin fusion monomers. The stability of the secreted monomers was significantly enhanced through gene-targeted inactivation of extracellular proteases.
The Peptidoglycan Sacculus of
Myxococcus xanthus
Has Unusual Structural Features and Is Degraded during Glycerol-Induced Myxospore Development
Authors: Bui Nhat Khai , Gray Joe , Schwarz Heinz , Schumann Peter , Blanot Didier , Vollmer Waldemar
Published: November 2008

Upon nutrient limitation cells of the swarming soil bacterium
Myxococcus xanthus
form a multicellular fruiting body in which a fraction of the cells develop into myxospores. Spore development includes the transition from a rod-shaped vegetative cell to a spherical myxospore and so is expected to be accompanied by changes in the bacterial cell envelope. Peptidoglycan is the shape-determining structure in the cell envelope of most bacteria, including myxobacteria. We analyzed the composition of peptidoglycan isolated from
M. xanthus
. While the basic structural elements of peptidoglycan in myxobacteria were identical to those in other gram-negative bacteria, the peptidoglycan of
M. xanthus
had unique structural features.
meso
- or
ll
-diaminopimelic acid was present in the stem peptides, and a new modification of
N
-acetylmuramic acid was detected in a fraction of the muropeptides. Peptidoglycan formed a continuous, bag-shaped sacculus in vegetative cells. The sacculus was degraded during the transition from vegetative cells to glycerol-induced myxospores. The spherical, bag-shaped coats isolated from glycerol-induced spores contained no detectable muropeptides, but they contained small amounts of
N
-acetylmuramic acid and
meso
-diaminopimelic acid.
Bacteria Possessing Two RelA/SpoT-Like Proteins Have Evolved a Specific Stringent Response Involving the Acyl Carrier Protein-SpoT Interaction
Authors: Battesti Aurélia , Bouveret Emmanuelle
Published: November 2008

Bacteria respond to nutritional stress by producing (p)ppGpp, which triggers a stringent response resulting in growth arrest and expression of resistance genes. InEscherichia coli, RelA produces (p)ppGpp upon amino acid starvation by detecting stalled ribosomes. The SpoT enzyme responds to various other types of starvation by unknown mechanisms. We previously described an interaction between SpoT and the central cofactor of lipid synthesis, acyl carrier protein (ACP), which is involved in detecting starvation signals in lipid metabolism and triggering SpoT-dependent (p)ppGpp accumulation. However, most bacteria possess a unique protein homologous to RelA/SpoT (Rsh) that is able to synthesize and degrade (p)ppGpp and is therefore more closely related to SpoT function. In this study, we asked if the ACP-SpoT interaction is specific for bacteria containing two RelA and SpoT enzymes or if it is a general feature that is conserved in Rsh enzymes. By testing various combinations of SpoT, RelA, and Rsh enzymes and ACPs ofE. coli,Pseudomonas aeruginosa,Bacillus subtilisandStreptococcus pneumoniae, we found that the interaction between (p)ppGpp synthases and ACP seemed to be restricted to SpoT proteins of bacteria containing the two RelA and SpoT proteins and to ACP proteins encoded by genes located in fatty acid synthesis operons. When Rsh enzymes fromB. subtilisandS. pneumoniaeare produced inE. coli, the behavior of these enzymes is different from the behavior of both RelA and SpoT proteins with respect to (p)ppGpp synthesis. This suggests that bacteria have evolved several different modes of (p)ppGpp regulation in order to respond to nutrient starvation.
Specific duodenal and faecal bacterial groups associated with paediatric coeliac disease
Authors: Collado M C , Donat E , Ribes-Koninckx C , Calabuig M , Sanz Y
Published: November 2008

Aims:

To identify specific gut bacteria associated with coeliac disease (CD) at diagnosis and after treatment with a gluten-free diet (GFD) in a paediatric population.

Methods:

30 and 18 faecal samples from untreated and treated CD patients and 25 and 8 biopsy samples from untreated and treated CD patients, respectively, were analysed. In addition, 30 faecal and 8 biopsy samples from control children were evaluated for comparative purposes. Gut bacterial groups were quantified by real-time PCR.

Results:

BacteroidesandClostridiumleptumgroups were more abundant in faeces and biopsies of CD patients than in controls regardless of the stage of the disease.E coliandStaphylococcuscounts were also higher in faeces and biopsies of non-treated CD patients than in those of controls, but their levels were normalised after treatment with a GFD.Bifidobacteriumlevels were lower in faeces of both groups of CD patients and in biopsies of untreated CD patients compared to controls. Similar bacterial groups were related to CD in biopsies and faeces, indicating that faecal microbiota partly reflects that of the small intestine in CD patients, and could constitute a convenient biological index of this disorder.

Conclusions:

Duodenal and faecal microbiota is unbalanced in children with untreated CD and only partially restored after long-term treatment with a GFD, constituting a novel factor linked to this disorder.
Mitochondrial DNA Variation in Introduced Populations of Pacific Oyster,Crassostrea gigas, in British Columbia
Authors: Boom J. D. G. , Boulding E. G. , Beckenbach A. T.
Published: November 2008

Crassostrea gigas, a species native to Japan, was transplanted in very large numbers from the Miyagi Prefecture from 1927 to 1977 to British Columbia coastal waters. We examined the genetic structure and diversity of wild British Columbian populations of C. gigas using restriction enzyme analysis of mitochondrial DNA. Forty-four mtDNA haplotypes were identified in 141 animals from the populations sampled, implying the existence of considerable genetic diversity. The frequency distribution of these haplotypes is unusual in that only two haplotypes predominate whereas 34 are represented by a single individual and five by two individuals. The four British Columbia populations sampled all shared the two common haplotypes in roughly the same frequencies and a third haplotype at low frequencies. Between 9 and 11 haplotypes were found uniquely in each of the four British Columbia populations sampled, but 34 of those 40 private haplotypes were observed only once. Much larger sample sizes would be required to conclude that those haplotypes are indeed "private" and not present in low frequencies in all populations. We conclude that there is substantial genetic variation in these introduced populations, but there is little evidence of genetic divergence between them.
Mechanical ventilation enhances lung inflammation and caspase activity in a model of mouse pneumovirus infection
Authors: Bem Reinout A. , van Woensel Job B. M. , Bos Albert P. , Koski Amy , Farnand Alex W. , Domachowske Joseph B. , Rosenberg Helene F. , Martin Thomas R. , Matute-Bello Gustavo
Published: November 2008

Severe infection with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in children can progress to respiratory distress and acute lung injury (ALI). Accumulating evidence suggests that mechanical ventilation (MV) is an important cofactor in the development of ALI by modulating the host immune responses to bacteria. This study investigates whether MV enhances the host response to pneumonia virus of mice (PVM), a mouse pneumovirus that has been used as a model for RSV infection in humans. BALB/c mice were inoculated intranasally with diluted clarified lung homogenates from mice infected with PVM strain J3666 or uninfected controls. Four days after inoculation, the mice were subjected to 4 h of MV (tidal volume, 10 ml/kg) or allowed to breathe spontaneously. When compared with that of mice inoculated with PVM only, the administration of MV to PVM-infected mice resulted in increased bronchoalveolar lavage fluid concentrations of the cytokines macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-2, MIP-1α (CCL3), and IL-6; increased alveolar-capillary permeability to high molecular weight proteins; and increased caspase-3 activity in lung homogenates. We conclude that MV enhances the activation of inflammatory and caspase cell death pathways in response to pneumovirus infection. We speculate that MV potentially contributes to the development of lung injury in patients with RSV infection.
Gender Quotas, Electoral Laws, and the Election of Women
Authors: Jones Mark P.
Published: November 2008

This study uses district-level data from national legislative elections in 19 Latin American countries to evaluate the effect of gender quota legislation, in concert with other electoral rules, on the election of women legislators. Well-designed quota legislation has a profound positive impact on the election of women, regardless of the type of party list (closed or open). Where quota legislation is in force, the use of closed lists on average results in a greater percentage of women legislators elected to office than does the use of open lists. However, this difference is not as great as would be expected based on the prevailing conventional wisdom and is primarily the consequence of the superiority of the closed-list systems when the number of seats a party wins in a district (party magnitude) is two. With one important exception, party magnitude is generally unrelated to women's electoral success in the region.
The Logic of Historical Explanation in the Social Sciences
Authors: Mahoney James , Kimball Erin , Koivu Kendra L.
Published: November 2008

Historical explanations seek to identify the causes of outcomes in particular cases. Although social scientists commonly develop historical explanations, they lack criteria for distinguishing different types of causes and for evaluating the relative importance of alternative causes of the same outcome. This article first provides an inventory of the five types of causes that are normally used in historical explanations: (1) necessary but not sufficient, (2) sufficient but not necessary, (3) necessary and sufficient, (4) INUS, and (5) SUIN causes. It then introduces a new method—sequence elaboration—for evaluating the relative importance of causes. Sequence elaboration assesses the importance of causes through consideration of their position within a sequence and through consideration of the types of causes that make up the sequence as a whole. Throughout the article, methodological points are illustrated with substantive examples from the field of international and comparative studies.
Do Electoral Rules Matter?
Authors: Garland Marshall W. , Biglaiser Glen
Published: November 2008

Despite the growing importance of domestic institutions in the political economy literature, few studies explore the effects of disaggregated measures of political institutions, specifically electoral rules and systems, on foreign direct investment (FDI). Building on institutional accounts, this articles tests the effects of electoral rules on FDI inflows for 16 Latin American countries from 1978 to 2000. Using panel data and controlling for common explanations in the FDI literature, the authors find that candidate-centered electoral systems increase political access for voters and industries supportive of FDI inflows. The results show the benefits of unpacking political institutions to explain FDI inflows, paving the way for many new research avenues.
Defining distinct caregiver subpopulations by intensity of end-of-life care provided
Authors: Abernethy A , Burns C , Wheeler J , Currow D
Published: November 2008

Interventions designed to assist informal caregivers who serve individuals at or near the end of life have predominantly focused on caregiving spouses. Can we define other caregiver subpopulations – by intensity of care provided – so as to enable better a) identification of caregiver needs and b) targeting of support to caregivers? The Health Omnibus Survey, an annual face-to-face survey in South Australia, collects health-related data from a representative sample of 4400 households. Piloted questions included in the 2001–2005 Health Omnibus surveys addressed death of a loved one, caregiving provided, impact of caregiving and caregiver characteristics. Of 18,224 respondents, 5302 reported a loved one’s death due to terminal illness in the previous 5 years. In all, 502 (10%) provided daily care [5–7 days/week], 619 (12%) provided intermittent care [2–4 days/week] and 425 (8%) provided rare care. Active (daily plus intermittent) caregivers, compared with non-active (rare) caregivers, were more often women (63% vs 50%; P < 0.0001). Daily caregivers were distinguishable from intermittent; daily caregivers were more often widowed (95% vs 7%; P < 0.0001) and ≥60 years (80% vs 64%; P < 0.0001); intermittent caregivers were more commonly children/parents (35%), other relatives (33%), or friends (26%; P < 0.0001) and were better educated, more active in paid work and wealthier. Financial burden, experience at time of death, ability to move on after the death and need for grief support also differed by intensity of caregiving. Caregiver subpopulations can be defined according to intensity of caregiving with distinct demographic features helping to distinguish them.
The Wisdom of Consumer Crowds
Authors: Kozinets Robert V. , Hemetsberger Andrea , Schau Hope Jensen
Published: November 2008

Past theories of consumer innovation and creativity were devised before the emergence of the profound collaborative possibilities of technology. With the diffusion of networking technologies, collective consumer innovation is taking on new forms that are transforming the nature of consumption and work and, with it, society and marketing. We theorize, examine, dimensionalize, and organize these forms and processes of online collective consumer innovation. Extending past theories of informationalism, we follow this macro-social paradigm shift into grassroots regions that have irrevocable impacts on business and society. Business and society need categories and procedures to guide their interactions with this powerful and growing phenomenon. We classify and describe four types of online creative consumer communities—Crowds, Hives, Mobs, and Swarms. Collective innovation is produced both as an aggregated byproduct of everyday information consumption and as a result of the efforts of talented and motivated groups of innovative e-tribes.
The Playfulness of eBay and the Implications for Business as a Game-Maker
Authors: Molesworth Mike , Denegri-Knott Janice
Published: November 2008

The purpose of this article is to theorize and to illustrate how eBay as a game may both support and undermine playful consumption. In reaching that aim, we argue that business models such as eBay that operate in an experiential economy supplying new games for restless consumers to play may find it hard to sustain their initial success. As internal and external forces transform “playful” behaviors into “professional” ones and as imaginative and autotelic play is rationalized such that its purpose becomes extrinsic, consumer boredom may follow. Conceptually, we make a case for an appraisal of consumption as playful activity, borrowing key concepts from Caillois's sociology derived from play to guide our analysis of recent developments in eBay's business model as well as to flesh out an explanation as to how eBay engages playful consumption. We conclude by commenting on society's preferred play forms for businesses and for consumer culture.
A New World of Literacy, Information Technologies, and the Incorporeal Selves
Authors: Fýrat A. Fuat , Vicdan Handan
Published: November 2008

We discuss issues that require attention by (macro)marketing scholars in view of how people use new technologies of communication, specifically the Internet. Despite roadblocks because of lack of new literacy, lack of access to technologies, and modern marketing orientations, major transformations are foreseen. We discuss how trendsetters with access engage in constructing selves (e.g., iconic and (dis)embodied selves) that invigorate and that are fueled by technological as well as cultural transformations. We highlight the pivotal role that macromarketing must play in directing these transformations by (1) providing avenues for the development of a new literacy required today, (2) reconfiguring the markets and marketing systems to permit people's engagement in participatory practices, and (3) embracing and encouraging multiple orders and navigation among them. Following observations regarding trends in people's orientations toward life and construction of selves, we propose avenues for (macro)marketing scholarship and research to guide the above-stated directions.
An Open Source, Controversies-based Macromarketing Chapter
Authors: Shapiro Stanley J.
Published: November 2008

This article first discusses the pedagogical usefulness of an “open source” chapter now available to all at the Macromarketing Society's Web site. That chapter begins by examining the chasm that existed between macromarketing as a field of inquiry and the then (2005) prevailing American Marketing Association definition of marketing. Next, the article attempts to familiarize readers with the domain, or various areas of study, within macromarketing. Finally, its author both makes the case for and provides eight examples of a controversies-based approach to the study of macromarketing. As regards the next step in macromarketing pedagogy, it is argued that the time for authoring a macromarketing textbook has come and gone. Rather, that next pedagogical step should involve the design of a free, online macromarketing course universally available for use, in whole or in part, both by interested instructors and by students of macromarketing or marketing and society.
Structuring the Global Marketplace
Authors: Nason Robert W.
Published: November 2008

During the past seven years, the United Nations Global Compact has become the largest voluntary corporate-citizenship initiative attempting to elevate and level the norms of corporate behavior in world markets. Its strategy of attracting volume of members versus commitment to performance of the Compacts 10 principles does not provide a base of innovators and early adopters necessary to gain respect from the vast majority of international companies. Thus, the Compact is unlikely to instill the norms embedded in its ten principles in the world market in any meaningful way to engender fairer and more efficient global markets.
Improving Interagency Collaboration
Authors: Noonan Patricia M. , Morningstar Mary E. , Gaumer Erickson Amy
Published: November 2008

Young adults with disabilities often depend on linkages and supports from adult agencies to achieve high-quality adult outcomes. However, interagency collaboration has emerged as a major area of difficulty and a critical area in need of improvement for school districts throughout the United States. Based on the input of research participants from 29 high-performing districts and state-level transition coordinators from five diverse states, this article identifies 11 key strategies to enhance interagency collaboration. Results provide implications for the field of transition concerning effective methods for increasing interagency collaboration and, ultimately, improving postschool outcomes for student with disabilities.
On the Line: Worker Democracy and the Struggle Over Occupational Health and Safety
Authors: Granzow Kara , Theberge Nancy
Published: November 2008

In this article we present a qualitative analysis of worker involvement in a participatory project to improve occupational health and safety at a Canadian manufacturing site. Based on interviews with workers in the plant, we consider the manner and degree to which workers experienced meaningful participation in the intervention process and some of the main barriers to worker participation. Findings emphasize the importance of the social and political context in conditioning the dynamics of joint management labor ventures specifically in relation to health initiatives. Interviews revealed few instances in which workers felt included in the participatory initiative; most often they felt marginalized. In the absence of structural change in the plant, workers described the health initiative as seriously limited in its ability to render meaningful worker participation. These results extend beyond this analysis of a participatory workplace health initiative, offering insights into the dynamics of institutional participatory process, and into participatory research practice generally.
Assessing Teacher Use of Opportunities to Respond and Effective Classroom Management Strategies
Authors: Stichter Janine P. , Lewis Timothy J. , Whittaker Tiffany A. , Richter Mary , Johnson Nanci W. , Trussell Robert P.
Published: November 2008

The importance of effective instruction on student academic and social achievement has been well documented. Strong classroom management and the use of high rates of opportunities to respond (OTR) have been two advocated classroom practices to positively impact student performance. This article presents an analysis of data collected across 35 general education classrooms in four elementary schools, assessing instructional variables associated with OTR. The relationship among OTR, measures of classroom management, and student work products was analyzed across Title and non-Title schools. Results indicate that teachers in the present study used components of OTR at rates similar to past research, but there were clear differences among Title I and non-Title schools. In addition, as teacher use of key instructional variables increased or decreased, other key variables posited as necessary by the literature often suffered. Implications for future research are discussed for students in high- and low-risk general education classrooms.
Aortoiliac Aneurysm Repair in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Leon Luis R. , Glazer Evan S. , Hughes John D. , Bui Trung D. , Psalms Shemuel B. , Goshima Kaoru R.
Published: November 2008

A potential problem during endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) or open repair in renal allograft patients is ischemia of the transplanted kidney. In this study, kidney transplant patients who underwent aortic aneurysm repair in our institution were added to similar cases extracted from the literature to represent the basis of this work. Comparisons between patients treated with open surgery versus EVAR were performed in terms of renal function. In the EVAR group, most aneurysms were infrarenal, and 84% were treated with modular bifurcated devices. Protective kidney allograft perfusion measures were not used. The pre- and postoperative Cr was 1.69 and 1.73 mg/dL, respectively (P = .412). All EVAR patients had good outcomes. Complications included 8 endoleaks and 1 limb ischemia case. Three patients died from aortic repair-unrelated reasons. In the open group, the pre-and postoperative Cr was 1.45 and 1.37 mg/dL, respectively (P = .055). Most cases were infrarenal and mostly treated by aortobiiliac bypasses. In 16%, no adjuvant allograft perfusion was provided. In the rest, temporary axillofemoral bypasses were used most often. Most outcomes were favorable (57%). Reported procedural-related complications included arterial embolism, wound infection, and pneumonia. Deaths were reported in 5 occasions (none allograft failure dependent). No differences in Cr between EVAR and open techniques (P = .13) were seen. Aneurysm repair in kidney transplant recipients is associated with excellent renal preservation. Adverse outcomes were all allograft failure independent in both groups. EVAR without special allograft protection measures seems to be equally effective as open surgery with or without adjuvant kidney transplant perfusion.
Walking During Daily Life Can Be Validly and Responsively Assessed in Subjects With a Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: van Hedel Hubertus J. A. , Dietz Volker ,   European Multicenter Study on Human Spinal Cord Injury (EM-SCI) Study Group
Published: November 2008

Objective. This study assessed the validity and responsiveness of the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM II) items indoor mobility, mobility for moderate distances, and outdoor mobility. Methods. The data of 886 spinal cord injury subjects were derived from the European Multicenter Study for Human Spinal Cord Injury (EM-SCI) and analyzed at 2 weeks and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after injury. The SCIM II items were compared using the preferred walking speed and the Walking Index for Spinal Cord Injury (WISCI II). The responsiveness to assess differences over time was determined. The analyses were performed for subjects with varying impairment scales according to the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA). Results. An initially moderate correlation between walking capacity and the SCIM II mobility items improved to excellent at 6 and 12 months after injury. The correlations were higher for indoor mobility compared with outdoor mobility. These correlations increased in ASIA C, but decreased over time in ASIA D subjects. The SCIM II mobility items showed initially positive responsiveness in ASIA A and B subjects. In ASIA C and D subjects, SCIM II responsiveness was significant within the first 6 months. Conclusions . The SCIM II items assess mobility (wheelchair and walking) during daily life. They show good validity and responsiveness, including postdischarge. They can be considered appropriate for evaluating the efficacy of new interventions on ambulatory function. Depending on the severity of the initial lesion and time of assessment, clinically applied walking tests can accurately predict walking performance during daily life.
The crystal structure of seeligerite, Pb3IO4Cl3, a rare Pb-I-oxychloride from the San Rafael mine, Sierra Gorda, Chile
Authors: Bindi L. , Welch M. D. , Bonazzi P. , Pratesi G. , Menchetti S.
Published: November 2008

The crystal structure of seeligerite, Pb3IO4Cl3, from the San Rafael mine, Sierra Gorda, Chile, was solved in the space group Cmm2, and refined to R = 3.07%. The unit-cell parameters are: a = 7.971(2), b = 7.976(2), c = 27.341(5) Å, V = 1738.3(6) Å3 and Z = 8. The crystal structure consists of a stacking sequence along [001] of square-net layers of O atoms and square-net layers of Cl atoms with Pb+ and I+ cations located in the voids of the packing. As is typical of cations with a stereoactive lone-pair of electrons, Pb2+ and I5+ adopt strongly-asymmetrical configurations. Pb2+ cations occur in a variety of coordination polyhedra, ranging from anticubes and monocapped anticubes to pyramidal ‘one-sided’ coordinations. I5+ is coordinated by a square of four oxygen atoms: I1 and I3 exhibit a ‘one-sided’ coordination, whereas I2 has square-planar coordination.

The TEM investigation has revealed additional superlattice reflections (which were not registered by X-ray diffraction (XRD)) in the hk0 diffraction pattern of seeligerite based upon a 0.158 Å-1 square net, which can be interpreted as arising from a 20-cation super-sheet motif (12.6 Å x 12.6 Å), likely related to a further level of Pb-I order superimposed upon the 8-site motif identified by XRD.
Two BMP responsive elements, STAT, and bZIP/HNF4/COUP motifs of the hepcidin promoter are critical for BMP, SMAD1, and HJV responsiveness
Authors: Truksa Jaroslav , Lee Pauline , Beutler Ernest
Published: November 2008

Hepcidin plays a major role in the regulation of iron homeostasis. Several bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are strong inducers of hepcidin (Hamp1, HAMP) expression. Hemojuvelin, a protein critical for maintaining appropriate levels of hepcidin, acts as a coreceptor for BMP2 and BMP4, thereby providing a link between iron homeostasis and the BMP-signaling pathway. We show that a robust BMP, hemojuvelin, and SMAD1 response by murine Hamp1 is dependent on a distal BMP responsive element (BMP-RE2), the adjacent bZIP, HNF4α/COUP binding sites, and plus or minus 50 bp of the flanking area within −1.6 to −1.7 kb of the Hamp1 promoter. Furthermore, the STAT site and the BMP responsive element (BMP-RE1) located in the proximal 260-bp region of the Hamp1 promoter are also indispensable for maximal activation of hepcidin transcription. The homologous motifs in the distal and proximal regions of the human HAMP promoter act in a manner similar to the murine Hamp1 promoter. Therefore, we propose that the regulation of hepcidin by the BMP pathway involves the formation of a complex of liver-specific and response-specific transcription factors bound to the distal BMP-RE2 /bZIP/HNF4α/COUP region and to the proximal BMP-RE1/STAT region possibly by physical association of the 2 regions.
Intrinsic diagram of sheet metal forming limits for arbitrary strain paths
Authors: Fatmaoui H. , Mesrar R. , Chaoufi J.
Published: November 2008

Localized necking in sheets under biaxial tension is analysed by an Marciniak—Kuczynski localization approach (MK-analysis) along with a new plane-stress criterion. Analysis is developed for a rigid viscoplastic behaviour based on flow-theory of plasticity. The model is introduced in numerical calculations to determine forming limits to ductility under linear and non-linear strain paths. However, the results are presented in a new diagram that represent the effective strain as a function of the current strain-rate ratio. A comparison with classical forming limit diagrams shows the intrinsic character of the new diagram.
Evolution of microstructure and impact-strength energy in thermally and thermomechanically aged 15-5 PH
Authors: Herny E , Lours P , Andrieu E , Cloué J M , Lagain P
Published: November 2008

Due to its outstanding mechanical resistance and resistance to corrosion, alloy 15-5 PH can be beneficially used for manufacturing aerospace structural parts. Following exposure to intermediate temperature, from 300°–400 °C, the alloy embrittles through the decomposition of the martensite into iron-rich and chromium-rich domains. Depending on the ageing time, these domains are either interconnected or unconnected with each other. The embrittlement results in a drastic drop of the impact strength-energy and an increase of the ductile-to-brittle transition temperature. The initial microstructure and mechanical properties can be recovered through a re-homogenization of the distribution of chromium and iron atoms in the material in the case where the decomposition of the matrix is not too pronounced. The application of a stress higher than 60 per cent of the yield strength further enhances the ageing kinetics in the case where the combined effect of temperature and time results in the spinodal decomposition of the martensite.
Thermo-mechanical behaviour of ceramic metal brazed assemblies
Authors: Cazajus V , Lorrain B , Welemane H , Paranthoen Y , Karama M
Published: November 2008

This study investigates the effects of residual stresses developed during brazing on the performance of brazed ceramic metal joints. The thermal expansion gradient between ceramic and metallic materials leads to the development of such stresses during the cooling phase of the brazing process, which consequently reduce the strength of these composite structures. Here, the objective is to compare the failure behaviour of various assemblies observed during experimental tests and obtained through numerical simulations. In order to get a representation consistent with the physical mechanisms involved, these simulations must account for the brazing phase giving rise to residual stresses before applying in use solicitations to brazed joints. This paper focuses on the tensile strength of ceramic metal joints, for which two brittle failure modes (within the ceramic or at the interface) are observed during the experimental tests.
Glow discharge treatment of Inconel 625 for glass fibreizing spinner discs
Authors: Kost M , Rudnicki J , Wierzchoń T
Published: November 2008

Fibreizing spinner discs work in absolutely extreme conditions. They are exposed to the influences of high temperatures, oxidation at elevated temperatures, combustion gases, and liquid glass. The spinner discs usually used are made from Inconel 625 alloys. Liquid glass affects the chemical composition of the Inconel surface zone, decreasing the chromium content. This causes corrosion phenomena. The recent studies concerning the application of CrN layers to protect the spinner disc against the external environment are presented. It has been shown that CrN layers improve the lifetime of the spinner disc. Produced CrN layers have diffusion character, hardness ∼1700 HV 0.05, and high wear and corrosion resistance.
Operating Management Speaks
Authors: Crane Roger R.
Published: November 2008

On December 4, 1958, the Detroit Chapter of The Institute of Management Sciences organized a panel discussion entitled “Operating Management Speaks” to present what operating management would like from the mathematical analysis of business operations.

Two of these presentations are given here to illustrate the attitude of operating management about the Management Sciences and where they feel it can contribute to their problems.

Management Technology, ISSN 0542-4917, was published as a separate journal from 1960 to 1964. In 1965 it was merged into Management Science.
Observations on the Role of Business Research as an Aid to Managers
Authors: Hurni Melvin L.
Published: November 2008

In speaking of the Role of Business Research as an Aid to Managers, I am going to make an assumption. This assumption is simply that for the foreseeable future, most industrial businesses will be constituted pretty much as they are now. They will be loosely coupled systems in which many people will continue to play a major role in sensing, deciding, regulating, adjusting, innovating.

Management Technology, ISSN 0542-4917, was published as a separate journal from 1960 to 1964. In 1965 it was merged into Management Science.
Operations Research as Applied to Construction
Authors: Heiman D. W.
Published: November 2008

The purpose of this paper is to examine into the feasibility and desirability of the application of the management sciences to the management of construction. The rapid development of the use of scientific methods, techniques and tools in the solution of complex industrial management problems raises the question as to whether or not the scientific disciplines can be employed to improve construction management, perhaps the most diverse, ruggedly individualistic of our major enterprises.

Management Technology, ISSN 0542-4917, was published as a separate journal from 1960 to 1964. In 1965 it was merged into Management Science.
Characteristics of Management Science
Authors: Hurni Melvin L.
Published: November 2008

All scientific areas of knowledge share common characteristics which distinguish them from the non-scientific. In evolving into a science an area of knowledge will acquire those characteristics common to a science. This is true of Management Science. But it is equally true that subject matter differences among sciences yield characteristics that distinguish one science from the others. For a scientist dedicated to a single field of knowledge, it is these distinguishing elements that are of prime importance in guiding his work and interests. What follows is the author's attempt to identify some of the critical characteristics of Management Science (as he sees it) consequent upon a major area of its subject matter, Business Organizations, for the purpose of clarifying its role as an applied business science.

Management Technology, ISSN 0542-4917, was published as a separate journal from 1960 to 1964. In 1965 it was merged into Management Science.
An Airline Provisioning Problem
Authors: Shaunty James A. , Hare Van Court
Published: November 2008

The authors describe a method of computing the number of spare parts of each kind to have at each field station in a maintenance system. One-at-a-time replenishment is used and the variables considered are: (1) the replenishment time from a central warehouse to field stations, (2) a specified protection level (maximum number of shortages per year), and (3) the predicted usage rate for each part-station combination. The method employs multi-channel queuing theory in a routine programmed for Univac I. Of basic interest is the technique of predicting part-station usage from the number of landings per time period, rather than from hours flown, a modification of usual airline practice that allows usage predictions to be tied directly to a given station, and, furthermore, allows allocations of parts to stations to be revised as schedules change. Thus, the procedure bases inventory levels at each station on future needs, rather than on past history—a poor predictor as plane types and schedules are revised. The method is also applicable to field inventory planning for non-airline use, particularly if part usage is low, if one-at-a-time replenishment is used, and if the number of part-station combinations serviced is large.

Management Technology, ISSN 0542-4917, was published as a separate journal from 1960 to 1964. In 1965 it was merged into Management Science.
Decision Making in Competitive Situations
Authors: Friedman Lawrence
Published: November 2008

A method of making decisions in competitive situations is discussed which attempts to use analysis in a more rational manner than in the methods given by the mathematical theory of games. The method is based on two principles which have been the subject of much controversy in the field of decision theory. These principles are, (1) In any real competitive situation there is one and only one optimal course of action, and (2) In any real competitive situation there is one and only one objective function. This objective function is the maximization of expected utility.

Management Technology, ISSN 0542-4917, was published as a separate journal from 1960 to 1964. In 1965 it was merged into Management Science.
Some Comments on the Simulation of Management Control Systems
Authors: Conway Richard W.
Published: November 2008

The author believes that digital simulation will make a great contribution to the understanding of management control systems, although little has been accomplished to date. He questions whether the problem can be “overwhelmed” by experimentation without a general theory of management control systems and states that proper design of an investigation is at least as difficult a problem as that of constructing a valid simulator, although the latter is no mean problem.

Management Technology, ISSN 0542-4917, was published as a separate journal from 1960 to 1964. In 1965 it was merged into Management Science.
A Pattern for Reporting Operations Research to the Business Executive
Authors: Wynne B. E.
Published: November 2008

This paper emphasizes the purpose of an Operations Research report to business executives, discusses some of the problems of language and attitude, defends the need for executive “intuition” and suggests a format for Operations Research reports.

Management Technology, ISSN 0542-4917, was published as a separate journal from 1960 to 1964. In 1965 it was merged into Management Science.
Critique of Air Defense Measures of Effectiveness
Authors: Tombach Harold
Published: November 2008

Military long-range planners are constantly presented with weapon systems studies that make use of measures of effectiveness. Understanding of the implications of the choice of specific measures on the conclusions drawn from a systems analysis study is, therefore, important for these military decision makers as it is for military system analysts. This paper examines measures of effectiveness used for air defense systems development and force composition purposes in the light of the criterion of air defense mission accomplishment. Both active and passive defenses are covered. Limitations in the validity of the various measures are shown and examples of erroneous conclusions based on the use of expedient measures of effectiveness are provided. In conclusion, measures appearing most meaningful for the evaluation of the effectiveness of a future composite air defense system against a composite threat are indicated.

Management Technology, ISSN 0542-4917, was published as a separate journal from 1960 to 1964. In 1965 it was merged into Management Science.
Research Problems in Management Controls
Authors: Rowe Alan J.
Published: November 2008

The purpose of this paper is to present a number of concepts pertaining to management controls and to discuss information requirements, decision rules and feedback mechanisms. The use of computer simulation as a means for studying the dynamic response characteristics of management controls in a business environment is also presented.

Management Technology, ISSN 0542-4917, was published as a separate journal from 1960 to 1964. In 1965 it was merged into Management Science.
A Plant-Warehouse System with Variable Lead-Times and Variable Re-Order Levels: The Cost Optimization—COPT—System
Authors: Strassmann Paul A.
Published: November 2008

An analyst, in approaching the design of an integrated factory warehouse decision system, finds out that existing operations research theory concentrates on the rigorous solution of only limited and selected segments of the complex relationship between production and distribution. The fixed or economic order quantity re-ordering practice most frequently discussed in O/R literature results in an undesirable fluctuation in orders at the plant. If the manufacturer owns both the plants and the warehouses, he must incorporate an order smoothing decision rule into his system which must necessarily modify the size of the economic order quantity.

The fixed re-order point (or trigger point) is likewise an undesirable restriction on the operation of a system attempting to optimize both factory and distribution costs. At the times when the sales rate is below the rate of production a particular re-order point may not be reached at all. Conversely, at times of high sales, the re-order point may be reached repeatedly with the ultimate consequence of lengthening the lead times at the plant.

Management Technology, ISSN 0542-4917, was published as a separate journal from 1960 to 1964. In 1965 it was merged into Management Science.
Management Decision Technique in the Classification of Employee Skills
Authors: Winthrop Henry
Published: November 2008

An interesting problem which crops up in the field of industrial learning is the question of when an apprentice can be said to be a fully experienced operator. The importance of this question crops up for industrial training programs. It also occurs under the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act which provides that during the learning period the apprentice can only receive an hourly rate which is less than the standard going hourly rate for experienced operators. It therefore becomes important to determine when the learning period is over for apprentices, so that they may receive the higher rate to which they are then entitled. This is equitable enough but the real question which then arises is by what criterion do we determine the actual length of the learning period. Management will tend to exaggerate its length and labor will tend to minimize it.

Management Technology, ISSN 0542-4917, was published as a separate journal from 1960 to 1964. In 1965 it was merged into Management Science.
A Sugar Refinery Simulation Model
Authors: Brooks Richard M.
Published: November 2008

For a number of years the California and Hawaiian Sugar Refining Corporation, Limited (C and H) has found it increasingly difficult to conduct experiments essential to improving refining technology or to gaining a greater understanding of the specific capabilities and limitations of its refinery at Crockett, California. This article discusses the manner in which the refining process was analyzed, describes in brief the formulation of the model, and reviews the benefits derived from the model's development and use.

Management Technology, ISSN 0542-4917, was published as a separate journal from 1960 to 1964. In 1965 it was merged into Management Science.