bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
hetR and patS, two genes necessary for heterocyst pattern formation, are widespread in filamentous nonheterocyst-forming cyanobacteria
Authors: Zhang Ju-Yuan , Chen Wen-Li , Zhang Cheng-Cai
Published: April 2009

Heterocysts, cells specialized in N2fixation in cyanobacteria, appeared at near to 2.1 Ga. They constitute one of the oldest forms of differentiated cells in evolution, and are thus an interesting model for studies on evolutionary-developmental biology. How heterocysts arose during evolution remains unknown. InAnabaenaPCC 7120, heterocyst development requires, among other genes,hetRfor the initiation of heterocyst differentiation, andpatS, encoding a diffusible inhibitor of heterocyst formation. In this study, we report that bothhetRandpatSare widespread among filamentous cyanobacteria that do not form heterocysts or fix N2.hetRandpatSare found in proximity on the chromosome in several cases, such asArthrospira platensis, in which the level of HetR increased following nitrogen deprivation. ThehetRgene ofA. platensiscould complement ahetRmutant ofAnabaenaPCC 7120, andpatSofA. platensiscould suppress heterocyst differentiation inAnabaenaPCC 7120. Thus, key regulatory genes, includinghetRandpatS, involved in heterocyst development may have evolved before heterocysts appeared, suggesting that their function was not limited to heterocyst differentiation.
The failure of multinational food retailers in Japan: a matter of convenience?
Authors: Haddock‐Fraser Janet , Poole Nigel , Doishita Mitsuhiro
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the question of why world major supermarket chains have been unsuccessful so far in the Japanese market. The paper considers arguments from the literature that differences in consumer attitudes and behaviour between the two markets may be the determinants of the success, or otherwise, of the large US and European supermarkets.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of literature about Western and Japanese retailing is followed by an account of exploratory empirical research into Japanese consumer grocery purchasing and consumption behaviour.

Findings

The results support an argument that the large store “one‐stop shopping” supermarket format popular in the UK/EU is not and will not be the preferred format in Japan. Convenience, matters, but it is not the same concept as in the UK, for example.

Research limitations/implications

The sample survey is purposively biased towards younger female shoppers from the working population who will have a significant impact on future consumer behaviour patterns. Results are more inferential than statistically validated hypotheses.

Practical implications

Supermarket chains should open a larger number of smaller stores, concentrating on frequently delivered and high quality products, above all in the fresh foods categories. Moreover, the growth of the small “convenience” store format in markets such as the UK and California suggests that “western” consumers' desires for convenience are becoming more like those of Japanese consumers.

Originality/value

The paper shows that there has been little effort, to date, to demonstrate through primary research whether unique characteristics and buying behaviour do exist in the Japanese marketplace.
Highlighting food inadequacies: does the food desert metaphor help this cause?
Authors: McEntee Jesse
Published: April 2009

Purpose

Food deserts are an attractive metaphor, but because defining this phrase and actually identifying food deserts as geographic places are a contentious endeavour, it is more revealing to discuss related terms. Inherent in the debate around food deserts (i.e. how they are defined, if and where they exist) is the topic of access. The central purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that access is a more accurate and less misleading concept than food deserts when it comes to highlighting food inequalities.

Design/methodology/approach

Social exclusion, choice, food security, and public health are fields on which the paper draws. The proposition is that food security studies have entered a postmodern food security paradigm, which can readily be seen in US‐based community food security efforts.

Findings

Progressing beyond the initial attention‐grabbing nature of the food desert term, a conceptually thin foundation is discovered that impedes universal understanding and acknowledgment that areas of inadequate food access do exist. Food access, on the other hand, is an established phrase that has evolved and been applied in different arenas to address food security. Food access is a readily understood concept that can be tailored to specific applications; whether it is physical, economic, or informational food access.

Originality/value

It is proposed here that access is a more accurate and less misleading concept than food deserts when it comes to highlighting food inadequacies.
Factors influencing food safety management system adoption in Thai food‐manufacturing firms
Authors: Arpanutud Pornlert , Keeratipibul Suwimon , Charoensupaya Araya , Taylor Eunice
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate factors affecting the adoption of food‐safety management systems by Thai food‐manufacturing firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a survey questionnaire using a sample of Thai food‐manufacturing firms. The three‐part questionnaire was mailed to managers performing food‐safety management activities in 480 firms. A total of 217 questionnaires were returned, with a response rate of 45.2 percent.

Findings

The results of hypothesis testing indicated that the adoption of a food safety management system can be significantly predicted by: expected gain of social legitimacy; expected gain of economic competitiveness; perceived importance of external stakeholders (government, community, food safety organizations, and media); top management commitment to food safety; firm size and amount of export sales. It can also be predicted by the extent to which firms exchange food safety knowledge with other stakeholders.

Practical implications

The results of the study suggest that the Government should formulate food safety policies in favour of educating senior managers in the potential benefits of food safety management systems for their firms. In addition it confirms the importance of Government information dissemination on the successful adoption of such systems and the need to focus Government resources on assisting smaller firms. The findings present evidence of the commercial benefits of system adoption.

Original/value

The paper identifies statistically significant factors that can “predict” the uptake of food safety management systems within the Thai food industry.
Maintaining quality of minimally processed pomegranate arils by honey treatments
Authors: Ergun Muharrem , Ergun Nazan
Published: April 2009

Purpose

A major challenge facing the fresh‐cut industry is maintaining and preserving the quality of minimally processed or fresh‐cut produce. A low temperature regime, although insufficient, has been the main method of overcoming this challenge so far. Thus, methods preserving the quality and extending the shell life of minimally processed or fresh‐cut produce are needed. This paper seeks to propose that honey could be used to preserve the fresh‐like quality of minimally processed pomegranate arils and extend their shelf life.

Design/methodology/approach

Manually extracted pomegranate arils were treated with water as control, 10 or 20 per cent diluted honey solution each for five minutes, then held at 4°C for ten days. Changes in organoleptic and visual quality, softening, soluble solids content, pH, absorbance at 446 and 510nm, and total aerobic count were recorded during the ten‐day storage period.

Findings

The study found that honey solution dip treatments extended the fresh‐like quality of minimally processed arils by delaying quality loss, microbial development, and pigment changes.

Practical implications

The paper shows that honey dip treatment may be used, depending on commodity, to preserve quality and extend the shelf life of minimally processed or fresh‐cut produce in the food‐processing industry.

Originality/value

The study pays particular attention to minimally processed pomegranate arils, by adapting a potentially safe organic method, the use of honey dips.
Talent management – competency development: key to global leadership
Authors: Sharma Rakesh , Bhatnagar Jyotsna
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to draw lessons on how building a talent management strategy based on competency profiling becomes a critical impact area within the field of strategic HRM.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study discusses an Indian pharmaceutical organisation, the environment and the issues arising in context to talent management. The case discusses a well designed talent management strategy.

Findings

The talent mindset has helped the organisation in recruiting the best talent from the best pharmaceutical organisations. The attrition of the top and valued talent segment has come down. Some of the key positions have been filled through succession planning.

Research limitations/implications

The case study is in a lesser known but emerging sector of the Indian economy. The case has concentrated on attracting and developing and retaining key talent, it does not concentrate on developing average talent into key talent.

Practical implications

The implications lie in whether to grow talent or buy talent. What signal through a communication strategy should a HR manager give when determining for talent segmentation? How to develop talent and retain employees when there are not challenging options available in the internal labour market?

Originality/value

This paper provides insights to HR practitioners on how to attract, acquire and manage talent in a tight internal and external labour market. It also provides empirical support for, and theoretical understanding of, the strategic HRM literature on talent management theme.
Balancing training and development programmes for your team
Authors: Preston Andy
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the balance of internal training programmes and how to get the best out of them.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on the practical experience of the author.

Findings

Training should be bite‐sized and incorporate real situations, coaching and feedback.

Originality/value

The paper provides new thoughts and distinctions around the internal training arena and is suitable for training managers and directors of organisations.
Yes, but how? Nine tips for building a culture focused on results, relationships, and accountability
Authors: Pennington Randy G.
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to recognize that organizational or corporate culture has resurfaced as an important factor in an organisation's long‐term success. This paper aims to offer ideas for developing and sustaining a strong organizational culture.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on the author's 20+ years of consulting experience with organizations.

Findings

An organisation's culture is defined as the intangible that sets it apart from its competitors in an environment where products and services are generally viewed as interchangeable. The paper takes the approach that an organisation's culture is a reflection of the habits it develops. It discusses the importance of conscious choices when influencing and changing the organisation's culture.

Practical implications

The paper discusses practical strategies for influencing and building a strong organizational culture.

Originality/value

The paper offers and shares nine ideas the practitioner can implement immediately to develop and sustain a strong organizational culture.
Blended learning: overview and recommendations for successful implementation
Authors: Harris Paul , Connolly John , Feeney Luke
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify key themes within the blended learning literature and to develop a series of practical recommendations to facilitate the successful adaptation and implementation of a “blended approach to learning delivery”.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature was reviewed and informed a series of recommendations for organisations considering adopting or implementing blended approaches to teaching and training.

Findings

Several key themes centering on the importance of evaluation, skills training, pedagogy, human factors, technology and implementation were identified. The emerging themes informed a series of practical recommendations to assist organisations considering blended learning approaches. Findings highlight the current limitations in the evidence base.

Practical implications

The identified key themes and practical recommendations provide a useful assist to organisations considering adopting and implementing blended approaches to teaching and training.

Originality/value

The paper highlights key areas for development in the blended learning literature and at the organisational level.
Choosing between print or digital collection building in times of financial constraint
Authors: Joint Nicholas
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore whether university librarians should spend limited financial resources on library building programmes to house expanding print collections, or give priority to supporting digital collections and services – even if this forces them to dispose of little used print stock in consequence.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploration of opposed concepts by an analytic comparison of two books which take different sides of this argument.

Findings

The impact of digital information culture on librarians should be to free them from concerns about disposing of stock in order to release library space to be used for better digital communication facilities, and to avoid diverting resources into expensive building programmes designed to retain all the print items purchased by libraries over the last 50 years. Resources that in the past would have been spent on warehousing expanding collections should nowadays be spent on buying more intensively used digital content and redesigning libraries as open spaces with digital technologies which can facilitate the new learning activities associated with the electronic campus.

Research limitations/implications

The underlying concepts examined in this paper are complex and could be subject to further examination and challenge through rigorous research.

Practical implications

This paper offers a realistic way of dealing with everyday problems in contemporary library management.

Originality/value

A practical solution to a common dilemma of contemporary librarianship is examined against a background of scholarly investigation and abstract thought.
Information literacy as professional legitimation
Authors: O'Connor Lisa
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine how the professionalization of school and academic librarianship contributed to the establishment of information literacy as a form of legitimation.

Design/methodology/approach

Historical analysis via Abbott.

Findings

The need to obtain and maintain professional status did place school and academic librarians in a vulnerable position during a time of change that forced them to seek a new jurisdiciton of expertise.

Originality/value

Important for the profession to examine the context of the emergence of a current and important framework.
Public library services and the Polish community in England: case study
Authors: Listwon Anna , Sen Barbara
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the needs of the Polish community (established and newly arrived Poles) and how those needs are met by the public library service.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study method was used in partnership with Sheffield City Libraries. The methodology included interviews with library professionals and interviews and questionnaires targeted at members of the Polish community.

Findings

The Polish community are generally satisfied with the service they receive from libraries. The needs of sections of the Polish community are different dependent on their time in the country. Main concerns were with regard to the collection and their desire for good quality Polish materials including works by Polish authors (not just translations into Polish).

Research limitations/implications

This study is a single case study giving a snapshot of the library services to Polish users.

Practical implications

This study highlighted the need for increased community engagement with this particular ethic group. There is a need for collection development for this group of users. This can be facilitated by co‐operation with other libraries that are engaging in best practice and also specialist services such as the Polish Library in London.

Originality/value

This study is of practical value to public libraries meeting the needs of the Polish Community that is a growing and transient user group. There is little other literature that considers the needs of Poles newly arrived in this country.
Assessing managers' common sense using situational judgment tests
Authors: Salter Nicholas P. , Highhouse Scott
Published: April 2009

Purpose

In industrial‐organizational psychology, research and practice has focused on the use of situational judgment tests to predict managerial job performance. Although there is considerable controversy over what these tests actually measure, many have argued that they at least partially measure practical intelligence or “common sense.” Therefore the purpose of this article is to discuss situational judgment tests as assessments of common sense.

Design/methodology/approach

Reviewing the relevant industrial‐organizational psychology literature, this article considers the history and development of situational judgment tests as well as how the field has defined situational judgment. It also reviews the empirical and theoretical literature on their effectiveness for assessing managerial decision‐making competence.

Findings

Situational judgment tests have been found to be effective predictors of many organizational outcomes in a variety of job settings and positions. In particular, they have been found to incrementally predict future performance on‐the‐job beyond other typical predictors. Situational judgment tests are also relatively easy to administer and score and are often well received by managers and job applicants.

Originality/value

This article suggests situational judgment tests offer an efficient method of assessing common sense that can easily be adapted to many employment settings.
Do we know what common sense is and, can we improve it if we don't?
Authors: Rausch Erwin
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the meaning, significance, and development, of common sense and to suggest an approach for enhancing it.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature review and critical analysis of the way greater skill in decision‐making leads to “better” common sense.

Findings

In light of the very limited coverage of common sense development in the literature, this paper may make a contribution to the awareness of the dimensions of common sense and to approaches that can help individuals develop what might be more appropriate decisions based on common sense – decisions that consider more of the relevant issues.

Practical implications

Individuals – managers and leaders in all work and home activities – can enhance their common sense, and with it their decisions, by developing the habit of following the guidelines suggested by the paper, or equally appropriate ones.

Originality/value

There does not appear to be anything as practically applicable to common sense development as the suggested approach
Common sense and hard decision analysis: why might they conflict?
Authors: Goodwin Paul
Published: April 2009

Purpose

Hard decision analysis models allow complex decisions to be broken down into easier‐to‐handle and precisely defined sub‐problems and also provide a documented rationale for the decision. This paper aims to investigate why the course of action prescribed by a hard decision analysis model can sometimes conflict with a manager's common‐sense view of the appropriate course of action, even when the model is based on judgments elicited from the manager. It also discusses how such conflicts might be resolved so that the decision can be made with greater insight and confidence.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on the decision making and psychology literatures to obtain a definition of common‐sense and to show how and why it might lead to conclusions that are at variance with those indicated by rational decision model.

Findings

Four possible reasons for conflicts between common‐sense and a hard decision analysis model are identified. First, common sense reasoning is fuzzy while decision analysis models are precise. Second, under some circumstances, the axioms of a decision analysis model may conflict with common sense. Third, the decision model may be a misrepresentation of the decision problem because errors may have occurred when judgments were elicited from the decision maker. Fourth, common sense may suggest an inferior course of action.

Practical implications

The paper shows the potential dangers of making decisions based on common‐sense alone or of relying unquestionably on a decision analysis model.

Originality/value

The paper shows that the exploration of conflicts between the indications of decision analysis models and common sense and may lead to better decision making.
The nature and value of common sense to decision making
Authors: Zhao Sheng
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine, from management perspective, the nature of common sense, its application in decision‐making, and possibility of developing common sense more effectively.

Design/methodology/approach

To take typical dictionary definitions of common sense, understand, from management perspective, the different aspects of the nature of common sense, analyze how these properties affect different applications of common sense in decision making process. To cite available literature to support or explain points made, and make a parallel comparison to intuition and decision making where appropriate because of their similarity to certain extent.

Findings

The paper provides how to understand properties of common sense from managerial perspective, analyzes its value in aiding decision making, explains how mangers utilize common sense of target group or employees for decision making and creativity, and proposes some points for boosting development of common sense.

Practical implications

The paper points out possible different utilization of common sense for decision making. Common sense can be used for innovation. An effective strategy for innovation is not to launch sounds‐big innovation programs, but to respect and trust your employees to allow them freedom of expression of common sense and uncommon sense.

Originality/value

The paper suggests that common sense may involve tacit knowledge, often is a mix of personal experience and social communication, often comprises hard part and soft part, and can be used for creativity. The paper explains why there exist opposite opinions on common sense approach. These have not been seen in existing literature.
Does the accuracy of expert judgment comply with common sense:caveat emptor
Authors: Cassidy Michael F. , Buede Dennis
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine critically the accuracy of expert judgment, drawing on empirical evidence and theory from multiple disciplines. It suggests that counsel offered with confidence by experts might, under certain circumstances, be without merit, and presents approaches to assessing the accuracy of such counsel.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper synthesizes research findings on expert judgment drawn from multiple fields, including psychology, criminal justice, political science, and decision analysis. It examines internal and external factors affecting the veracity of what experts may judge to be matters of common sense, using a semiotic structure.

Findings

In multiple domains, including management, expert accuracy is, in general, no better than chance. Increased experience, however, is often accompanied by an unjustified increase in self‐confidence.

Practical implications

While the dynamic nature of decision making in organizations renders the development of a codified, reliable knowledge base potentially unachievable, there is value in recognizing these limitations, and employing tactics to explore more thoroughly both problem and solutions spaces

Originality/value

The paper's originality lies in its integration of recent, multiple‐disciplinary research as a basis for persuading decision makers of the perils of accepting expert advice without skepticism.
Level Three common sense
Authors: Clawson James G.S.
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that “common sense” is rooted in genetic and memetic legacies developed early in life and is not so common based on where those legacies were developed. To show that managers who are unable to review and adjust their common sense are not likely to be effective managers locally or globally.

Design/methodology/approach

The logic developed here is based on eclectic literature sources in psychology, anthropology, and management and from personal consulting activities all over the globe. The logic converges on the border between common and uncommon “sense” and reports data from sessions held in every quarter of the globe.

Findings

This discussion finds that much of management behavior is based on “common sense” that is neither accurate nor effective. For example, managers who focus on visible professional behavior and results at the expense of feel, which is common sense to most, may find their results to be, ironically, less than they could be.

Practical implications

Managers can learn to be more self aware particularly at “Level Three,” to understand better the bases for their own behavior and that of others and let go of commonly held non‐sensical assumptions about the way the business world operates. If they can, and the data suggests that most cannot, do this, they have a chance to develop a world‐class performing organization operating on a new and more functional “common sense.”

Originality/value

While many of the individual concepts and sources are not new, the convergence of logic on the importance of distinguishing between visible behavior, conscious thought and underlying values, assumptions, beliefs, and expectations about the way the world is or should be and how those elements affect behavior is not widely nor commonly held “sense.” Hence, the links drawn in this discussion will likely be counter‐intuitive to the vast majority of managers. Examples of companies of all sizes who understand are introduced to ground the case made here.
The relationship between ethics, common sense, and rationality
Authors: Morgan Christie R. , Thiagarajan Palaniappan
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to re‐think the definition of three commonly used terms; discuss links between ethics, common sense and rationality; offer a model integrating these; and present findings regarding the understanding of common sense and rationality.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reports on data collected from a convenient sample on their definitions of common sense and rationality. A constant comparison method of analysis is used to identify common themes in the definitions from this sample of 38 responses. Percentages and Yule's Q statistical data as well as descriptive statistics of demographics are obtained and examined.

Findings

Our findings indicate that a much higher percentage of respondents understand common sense to have a very similar meaning to the literary definition than those understanding the literary meaning of rationality. Statistical analysis of the findings agree.

Research limitations/implications

Further research should include a random sample and definitions of the term “ethics” and further consider the integration of ethics, common sense and rationality.

Practical implications

One implication of this research is to focus on a common understanding of these terms to those who use them. The model presented is intended to provide practical perception of the integration of ethics, common sense and rationality for application in management and life.

Originality/value

This paper adds to current literature on ethics, common sense, and rationality by extensive literature review of all three and combining that research as not presented previously. We offer a view that integrates common sense, rationality and ethics from distant philosophers and considers the current lack of literature connecting the three as shown in the form of a Figure.
The influence of partner's trust‐commitment relationship on electronic commerce strategic planning
Authors: Lai Jhih‐Ming , Lee Gwo‐Guang , Hsu Wei‐Lin
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of partnership (i.e. partner's trust and commitment) on electronic commerce strategic planning (ECSP), and the strategic benefits of expanding partnership. Beyond this research objective, this paper attempts to draw conclusions on the benefits of seeing such trust and commitment as common sense.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 166 Chief information officers were selected from the top 1000 largest firms in Taiwan to test the relations within the research model. Moreover, the structural equation modeling technique was used to evaluate the research model.

Findings

Partner trust significantly influences electronic commerce strategic planning. The results also indicate that the success of ECSP enables firms to achieve the strategic benefits of electronic commerce.

Research limitations/implications

This study demonstrates the need to separate the partner's trust and commitment from the environmental context when discussing certain questions related to environmental issues. Future ECSP studies could seek an enhanced understanding of the effects on investigations of other attributes of partnership.

Practical implications

Top managers and information system executives who are considering the process of ECSP must know that the first step is to acquire the partner's trust. And then, they need to make a commitment to their partners in order to gain the strategic benefits. The skills and actions to achieve these steps should become common sense for these executives.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to ECSP research by clarifying the effects of both partner trust and partner commitment on the ECSP, and provides a valuable reference for EC strategic planners, as well as researchers interested in EC strategic planning and management.
Common sense and integrative thinking
Authors: Benson Joy , Dresdow Sally
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The complexity of organizational decisions requires the ability to integrate diverse facts, ideas, issues, and connections into more comprehensive integrative thinking for decisions. The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of the relationship between common sense and integrative thinking. Common sense, on the surface, seems to be incompatible with integrative thinking yet common sense can enrich integrative thinking. Recommendations are made for leveraging the strengths of common sense thinking in identifying salient (relevant) factor stage of integrative thinking. Suggestions for future research are identified.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach of this paper is to use literature‐based research to identify how common sense tensions can enhance integrative thinking.

Findings

Five suggestions are presented to leverage common sense thinking when identifying salient factors in a situation. When common sense is successfully integrated at the first stage of integrative thinking, it will enhance the thinking in the other three stages.

Originality/value

This paper stresses that common sense and integrative thinking are compatible. Avenues for future research are identified.
Rheology and thermal properties of marketed Indian honey
Authors: Saravana Kumar Jaganathan , Mandal Mahitosh
Published: April 2009

Purpose

Characterization of honey gathered importance since it has been widely used in both medical and domestic needs. In this fast moving mechanical life, people are bound to buy commercially available honey at markets. The purpose of this paper is to study the physical and thermal properties of such honey.

Design/methodology/approach

Four well‐known commercial honey samples in the Indian market were analyzed for their color, rheology and thermal properties.

Findings

Color of the samples varied from white to light amber according to United States Department of Agriculture method. Rheologies of the samples were studied between 10 and 30°C. Viscosities of samples varied from 1.31  to 96.7 Pa s according to the kind of honey and temperature of measurement. Controlled shear rate viscometry indicated the Newtonian behavior with a drop in viscosity as the temperature increases. Differential Scanning Calorimetry analysis indicated the inflection transition temperature (Tg) of the present investigation ranged between –51.40  and –30.64°C. Correlation between the Tg and the viscosity of the samples were significant.

Originality/value

There has been no report available on the Newtonian behavior of the commercial Indian honey samples. This paper will help the consumers to comprehend the standard of the honey sold in the Indian market. Distributors/manufacturers will also be aware of quality of honey, which will help further in the process development, transportation and storage.
School intervention to improve preferences for fruit and vegetables
Authors: Clarke Anne M. , Ruxton Carrie H.S. , Hetherington Lesley , O'Neil Sharon , McMillan Brian
Published: April 2009

Purpose

Fruit and vegetable (F&V) intakes amongst Scottish schoolchildren are lower than recommended. The purpose of this paper is to describe an intervention which combined F&V with peer‐modelling and rewards to influence consumption of F&V.

Design/methodology/approach

A school‐based initiative was implemented in 19 primary schools. The evaluation of 8 schools (n = 1,477 pupils aged 4.5‐12 years) is reported. The three‐week intervention included free F&V (80 g portions), a peer‐modelling video and a series of small rewards followed by a four to six week maintenance phase during which time free F&V continued. Questionnaires were completed at baseline (T1) and up to two months after the end of the maintenance phase (T2) to assess changes in F&V consumption.

Findings

At T2, children in years 1 and 2 consumed F&V at school more often compared with T1, and ate a greater number of portions each time. There were no significant differences in home consumption. The picture was similar for children in years 3‐7 with no change in the reported number of portions.

Originality/value

Few behavioural interventions have been carried out in the public health arena to increase F&V consumption. This paper shows that a peer‐modelling intervention significantly increased consumption of F&V at school, while home consumption remained stable.
Reverse cholesterol transport in hypercholesterolemic rats fed different proteins and lipids origins
Authors: Shérazède Bouderbala , Myriem Lamri‐Senhadji , Ahmed Boualga , Jacques Belleville , Josiane Prost , Malika Bouchenak
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the effects of different dietary protein and lipid origins on serum HDL2 and HDL3 compositions and lecithin: cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) activity in growing rats fed a 0.5 per cent cholesterol‐enriched diet with either 20 per cent casein (C), chick pea (CP) or lentil (L) proteins combined to 10 per cent olive (O) or salmon (S) oil for 28 days.

Design/methodology/approach

HDL2 and HDL3 separation according to Sjöblom and Eklund and LCAT activity according to Glomset and Wright.

Findings

Serum total cholesterol was 1.3‐fold lower in CPS than in CPO group. HDL3 amounts were 2‐ and 1.5‐fold higher in CPO and LO groups, respectively, compared to CO group. HDL3‐unesterified cholesterol values were, respectively, 2‐ and 5‐fold lower in CPO and LO groups than in CO group, and were threefold decreased in CPS and LS groups vs CS group. HDL3‐phospholipids in LO group represented 12 and 51 per cent of the CO and CPO group values, respectively. HDL2‐triacylglycerol amounts were decreased in LO group vs CO group (−67 per cent) and in CPS and LS groups (−62 per cent) compared to CS group. HDL3‐apolipoprotein A‐I values were lower in LO group vs CO and CPO groups, and in CPS group vs CS group. However, LCAT activity was similar in all the studied groups.

Originality/value

The paper shows that when diets containing casein, chick pea or lentil proteins combined with olive or salmon oil are supplemented with cholesterol, HDL2 and HDL3 compositions are impaired despite unchanged LCAT activity. Moreover, if oils modify HDL compositions, dietary proteins play a critical role in these modifications.
Evaluation of some chemical and physicochemical properties of meals from pretreated tigernut seeds (Cyperus esculentus)
Authors: Ade‐Omowaye B.I.O. , Adegbite A.M. , Adetunji B.R. , Oladunmoye O.O.
Published: April 2009

Purpose

This paper focuses on the effect of different pretreatments on some properties of tigernut, an underutilized crop in Nigeria with the aim of widening its utilization in the country.

Design/methodology/approach

Tigernuts were subjected to various pretreatments such as fermentation, germination, pregelatinization and roasting before drying at 50 ± 2 ○C for 48 h in locally fabricated cabinet drier and milling in commercial plate mill to produce meal which passed through 30 mm pore‐sized sieve. Pretreated and untreated tigernut meals were analyzed using methods reported in the literature for chemical composition, physicochemical and functional properties.

Findings

Protein content of the meals ranged from 2.79 ± 0.01 to 3.65 ± 0.02 per cent with sample from fermented tigernut having the highest value and those from roasted ones having the least value. There were slight variations in the crude fat, fiber and ash contents of the resultant meals after pretreatment. There were 10 and 14 per cent enhancement in the ascorbic acid contents of fermented and germinated meals respectively. Titratable acidity, pH and water absorption capacity were affected by pretreatment in this study. Bulk density varied slightly after pretreatment. Germination, roasting and pregelatinization resulted in marked decrease in peak viscosity of the samples. The emulsion capacity ranged from 48.4 to 56 per cent with the untreated sample having the highest value and meals from roasted sample had the least value. Foaming capacity was improved by the pretreatments with the exception of roasting which reduced it from 2.15 to 1.18 per cent.

Originality/value

The paper has demonstrated the effect of pretreatments on tigernut meals and its potential applications in various food formulation and development, e.g. weaning foods, baked goods, beverage products, etc.
Snack service model for a comprehensive school
Authors: Tikkanen Irma , Honkanen Salla , Salmela Sanna‐Pauliina
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to construct and describe a snack service model for a comprehensive school.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical data were collected from the school officials and the pupils by using a focus group method in two comprehensive schools. Moreover, the food service managers of Espoo and Vantaa cities' catering services were theme interviewed. Consequently, a description of the snack service models was conducted and a snack service model for a comprehensive school was constructed.

Findings

A constructed model for serving snacks consists of eight elements: snack products; service process; customers; pricing; procurement of snacks; nutrition recommendations; in‐house control and interest groups.

Research limitations/implications

The constructed snack service model can be utilized as a standard model when serving snacks in a comprehensive school.

Originality/value

The constructed model may act as a reference model for the school catering organisations and the school officials when decisions related to snacks serving are made.
Awareness and consumption of iron among Mauritian female factory workers
Authors: Pathareddy Appanah Therishma , Oogarah‐Pratap Brinda , Ruggoo Arvind
Published: April 2009

Purpose

Little is known about the prevalence of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia in non‐pregnant adult women of low socio‐economic status. The purpose of this paper is to determine the level of awareness of the importance and sources of iron among female factory workers in the export processing zone (EPZ) sector. The influence of socio‐economic status of these women on their consumption of iron was also studied.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was carried out with 300 EPZ female workers aged between 18 and 45 years old. The interviewer‐administered questionnaire gathered data on their personal background, awareness on iron and their frequency of consumption of selected foods. Qualitative analysis of the dietary habits of a sample of 32 women was made through the use of a 24 h food recall.

Findings

The findings of the study revealed that 77 per cent of the female factory workers surveyed did not know the importance of iron in their body. Chi‐square tests showed that there was an association between educational level and knowledge on the importance of iron ( p < 0.01). The residential area of the women was not associated with their awareness on iron ( p > 0.05).

Practical implications

This study can arouse the interest of professionals in the managerial cadre of the factories and the local health authorities. They can further investigate the iron status of female factory workers and subsequently take necessary measures to improve health status of the workers and their work productivity.

Originality/value

In Mauritius, there has not been any recent study on the awareness and consumption of iron among women working in the factories. Moreover, most studies done worldwide have focussed on the iron status of pregnant women. This study will therefore provide additional data on the iron status of another “at risk” group.
Nutritional quality of palm fat substituted chicken nuggets
Authors: Alina A.R. , Babji A.S. , Affandi S.
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to improve the nutritional value of chicken nuggets by partial substitution of animal fat with palm stearin. Three nugget formulations with the fat level of 10.3 per cent palm fats consisted of blends from Olein: Stearin at ratios of 30:70, 50:50, 70:30 were used to replace chicken skin (control). Palm fat treatments resulted in a significant decrease of cholesterol content.

Design/methodology/approach

Four nugget formulations with the fat level of 10.3 per cent palm fats consisting of blends from Olein: Stearin at ratio of 30:70, 50:50, 70:30 and a commercial shortening, Socfat 36 are studied. The same formulation using chicken skin as a control and a commercial brand of nugget is used as a comparison. Proximate analysis of raw and cooked palm fat nuggets showed a decrease in the protein content and an increase of the fat content. The cholesterol content were reduced up to 45.9 per cent through the addition of palm fat, when compared against the control treatment. Fatty acid composition of palm fats in the palm substituted formulations increased the level of C16:0 and decreased C16:1, C18:1, C18:2, compared with fat from chicken skin.

Findings

The cholesterol content was reduced by 45.9 per cent when chicken skin and fat were substituted with palm fats. The texture of chicken nugget increased when added with palm fats. Palmitic acid (C16:0) content increased while palmitoleic acid (C16:1), oleic (C18:1) and linoleic acid (C18:2) decreased in palm fat treated nuggets.

Originality/value

The paper is of value in showing how palm stearin and olein usage in chicken nuggets helps reduce the product's cholesterol content.
Design of neural model for analysing journal bearings considering effects of transverse and longitudinal profile
Authors: Sinanoğlu Cem
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the effects of shaft surface profiles on the load carriage capacity of journal bearings using an experimental and neural network approach. The paper aims to inspect the performance characteristics of journal bearing systems; the presence of transverse and longitudinal roughness on journal‐shaft surfaces is studied using the proposed neural network.

Design/methodology/approach

The collected experimental data such as pressure variations are employed as training and testing data for an artificial neural network (ANN). Quick propagation algorithm is used to update the weight of the network during the training.

Findings

As a result, a shaft with a transverse profile displays a favorable performance as far as load carriage capacity is concerned. Moreover, the proposed neural network structure outperforms the available experimental model in predicting the pressure as well as the load carriage capacity.

Originality/value

The paper discusses a new modelling scheme known as ANN. A neural network predictor has been employed to analyze the effects of shaft surface profiles in the hydrodynamic lubrication of journal bearings.
The effect of boronizing and boro‐chromizing on tribological performance of AISI 52100 bearing steels
Authors: Sen Saduman , Sen Ugur
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the tribological behavior of hardened, boronized and boro‐chromized AISI 52100 steel balls against boro‐chromized AISI 1040 steel disk under 2, 5 and 10 N loads at 0.1 and 0.3 m/s sliding speeds.

Design/methodology/approach

Boronizing treatment was realized at 1,000°C for 2 h in a slurry salt bath consisting of borax, boric acid and ferro‐silicon. Some of the boronized steels were chromized at 1,000°C for 2 h by pack method in the powder mixture consisting of ferro‐chromium, ammonium chloride and alumina. Similarly, AISI 1040 steel disk was boronized at 900°C for 4 h in the same bath and then chromized by pack method. Friction and wear tests were carried out using a ball‐on‐disk machine.

Findings

The results showed that the specific wear rate of hardened and boronized AISI 52100 steel balls decreased with increasing load and decreasing sliding speed. Untreated AISI 52100 steel balls showed much greater specific wear rate than the boronized and boro‐chromized AISI 52100 steel balls. Boronized steel balls exhibited the highest wear resistance. The specific wear rates of hardened, boronized and borochromized steel balls were between 9.6422 × 10−5 and 1.6714 × 10−4, 4.4079 × 10−6 and 3.2829 × 10−5, and 1.0135 × 10−5 and 3.0559 × 10−5 mm3 N−1 m−1, respectively. The lowest coefficient of friction was recorded on a boro‐chromized steel disk, tested against boronized steel ball at 0.3 m/s sliding speed and under low‐load value.

Research limitations/implications

Tests have been made on the basis of atmospheric conditions. The study can be detailed using some lubricants on the wear test.

Practical implications

The research has shown that boronizing and boro‐chromizing treatments realized on steels have a good wear resistance in the open atmosphere. Boronizing treatment has been used for tribological applications for a long time. Boro‐chromizing treatment can be applied on steels, successfully.

Originality/value

Tribological properties of boro‐chromized steels are explained in the present study for the first time.