bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dhurrin Synthesis in Sorghum Is Regulated at the Transcriptional Level and Induced by Nitrogen Fertilization in Older Plants
Authors: Busk Peter Kamp , Møller Birger Lindberg
Published: July 2002

The content of the cyanogenic glucoside dhurrin in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) varies depending on plant age and growth conditions. The cyanide potential is highest shortly after onset of germination. At this stage, nitrogen application has no effect on dhurrin content, whereas in older plants, nitrogen application induces an increase. At all stages, the content of dhurrin correlates well with the activity of the two biosynthetic enzymes, CYP79A1 and CYP71E1, and with the protein and mRNA level for the two enzymes. During development, the activity of CYP79A1 is lower than the activity of CYP71E1, suggesting that CYP79A1 catalyzes the rate-limiting step in dhurrin synthesis as has previously been shown using etiolated seedlings. The site of dhurrin synthesis shifts from leaves to stem during plant development. In combination, the results demonstrate that dhurrin content in sorghum is largely determined by transcriptional regulation of the biosynthetic enzymes CYP79A1 and CYP71E1.
Metabolic and Environmental Regulation of 3-Methylcrotonyl-Coenzyme A Carboxylase Expression in Arabidopsis
Authors: Che Ping , Wurtele Eve Syrkin , Nikolau Basil J.
Published: July 2002

3-Methylcrotonyl-coenzyme A carboxylase (MCCase) is a nuclear-encoded, mitochondrial biotin-containing enzyme composed of two types of subunits: the biotinylated MCC-A subunit (encoded by the gene At1g03090) and the non-biotinylated MCC-B subunit (encoded by the gene At4g34030). The major metabolic role of MCCase is in the mitochondrial catabolism of leucine, and it also might function in the catabolism of isoprenoids and the mevalonate shunt. In the work presented herein, the single-copy gene encoding the Arabidopsis MCC-A subunit was isolated and characterized. It contains 15 exons separated by 14 introns. We examined the expression of the single-copy MCC-Aand MCC-B genes in Arabidopsis by monitoring the accumulation of the two protein and mRNA products. In addition, the expression of these two genes was studied in transgenic plants containing the 1.1- and 1.0-kb 5′ upstream sequences of the two MCCase subunit genes, respectively, fused to the β-glucuronidase gene. Light deprivation induces MCCase expression, which is suppressed by exogenous carbohydrates, especially sucrose. Several lines of evidence indicate that the suppressor of MCCase expression is synthesized in illuminated photosynthetic organs, and can be translocated to other organs to regulate MCCase expression. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that the suppressor of MCCase expression is a carbohydrate, perhaps sucrose or a carbohydrate metabolite. We conclude that MCCase expression is primarily controlled at the level of gene transcription and regulated by a complex interplay between environmental and metabolic signals. The observed expression patterns may indicate that one of the physiological roles of MCCase is to maintain the carbon status of the organism, possibly via the catabolism of leucine.
Photochemical Properties of the Flavin Mononucleotide-Binding Domains of the Phototropins from Arabidopsis, Rice, andChlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Kasahara Masahiro , Swartz Trevor E. , Olney Margaret A. , Onodera Akihiko , Mochizuki Nobuyoshi , Fukuzawa Hideya , Asamizu Erika , Tabata Satoshi , Kanegae Hiromi , Takano Makoto , Christie John M. , Nagatani Akira , Briggs Winslow R.
Published: July 2002

Phototropins (phot1 and phot2, formerly designated nph1 and npl1) are blue-light receptors that mediate phototropism, blue light-induced chloroplast relocation, and blue light-induced stomatal opening in Arabidopsis. Phototropins contain two light, oxygen, or voltage (LOV) domains at their N termini (LOV1 and LOV2), each a binding site for the chromophore flavin mononucleotide (FMN). Their C termini contain a serine/threonine protein kinase domain. Here, we examine the kinetic properties of the LOV domains of Arabidopsis phot1 and phot2, rice (Oryza sativa) phot1 and phot2, andChlamydomonas reinhardtii phot. When expressed inEscherichia coli, purified LOV domains from all phototropins examined bind FMN tightly and undergo a self-contained photocycle, characterized by fluorescence and absorption changes induced by blue light (T. Sakai, T. Kagawa, M. Kasahara, T.E. Swartz, J.M. Christie, W.R. Briggs, M. Wada, K. Okada [2001] Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 98: 6969–6974; M. Salomon, J.M. Christie, E. Knieb, U. Lempert, W.R. Briggs [2000] Biochemistry 39: 9401–9410). The photocycle involves the light-induced formation of a cysteinyl adduct to the C(4a) carbon of the FMN chromophore, which subsequently breaks down in darkness. In each case, the relative quantum efficiencies for the photoreaction and the rate constants for dark recovery of LOV1, LOV2, and peptides containing both LOV domains are presented. Moreover, the data obtained from full-length Arabidopsis phot1 and phot2 expressed in insect cells closely resemble those obtained for the tandem LOV-domain fusion proteins expressed in E. coli. For both Arabidopsis and rice phototropins, the LOV domains of phot1 differ from those of phot2 in their reaction kinetic properties and relative quantum efficiencies. Thus, in addition to differing in amino acid sequence, the phototropins can be distinguished on the basis of the photochemical cycles of their LOV domains. The LOV domains ofC. reinhardtii phot also undergo light-activated spectral changes consistent with cysteinyl adduct formation. Thus, the phototropin family extends over a wide evolutionary range from unicellular algae to higher plants.
Transcriptional Profiling Reveals Novel Interactions between Wounding, Pathogen, Abiotic Stress, and Hormonal Responses in Arabidopsis,
Authors: Cheong Yong Hwa , Chang Hur-Song , Gupta Rajeev , Wang Xun , Zhu Tong , Luan Sheng
Published: July 2002

Mechanical wounding not only damages plant tissues, but also provides pathways for pathogen invasion. To understand plant responses to wounding at a genomic level, we have surveyed the transcriptional response of 8,200 genes in Arabidopsis plants. Approximately 8% of these genes were altered by wounding at steady-state mRNA levels. Studies of expression patterns of these genes provide new information on the interactions between wounding and other signals, including pathogen attack, abiotic stress factors, and plant hormones. For example, a number of wound-responsive genes encode proteins involved in pathogen response. These include signaling molecules for the pathogen resistance pathway and enzymes required for cell wall modification and secondary metabolism. Many osmotic stress- and heat shock-regulated genes were highly responsive to wounding. Although a number of genes involved in ethylene, jasmonic acid, and abscisic acid pathways were activated, many in auxin responses were suppressed by wounding. These results further dissected the nature of mechanical wounding as a stress signal and identified new genes that may play a role in wounding and other signal transduction pathways.
Novel Insight into Vascular, Stress, and Auxin-Dependent and -Independent Gene Expression Programs in Strawberry, a Non-Climacteric Fruit
Authors: Aharoni Asaph , Keizer Leopold C.P. , Van Den Broeck Hetty C. , Blanco-Portales Rosario , Muñoz-Blanco Juan , Bois Gregory , Smit Patrick , De Vos Ric C.H. , O'Connell Ann P.
Published: July 2002

Using cDNA microarrays, a comprehensive investigation of gene expression was carried out in strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) fruit to understand the flow of events associated with its maturation and non-climacteric ripening. We detected key processes and novel genes not previously associated with fruit development and ripening, related to vascular development, oxidative stress, and auxin response. Microarray analysis during fruit development and in receptacle and seed (achene) tissues established an interesting parallelism in gene expression between the transdifferentiation of tracheary elements in Zinnia elegans and strawberry. One of the genes, CAD, common to both systems and encoding the lignin-related protein cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase, was immunolocalized to immature xylem cells of the vascular bundles in the strawberry receptacle. To examine the importance of oxidative stress in ripening, gene expression was compared between fruit treated on-vine with a free radical generator and non-treated fruit. Of 46 genes induced, 20 were also ripening regulated. This might suggest that active gene expression is induced to cope with oxidative stress conditions during ripening or that the strawberry ripening transcriptional program is an oxidative stress-induced process. To gain insight into the hormonal control of non-climacteric fruit ripening, an additional microarray experiment was conducted comparing gene expression in fruit treated exogenously with auxin and control fruit. Novel auxin-dependent genes and processes were identified in addition to transcriptional programs acting independent of auxin mainly related to cell wall metabolism and stress response.
Proteome Analysis of Grain Filling and Seed Maturation in Barley
Authors: Finnie Christine , Melchior Sabrina , Roepstorff Peter , Svensson Birte
Published: July 2002

In monocotyledonous plants, the process of seed development involves the deposition of reserves in the starchy endosperm and development of the embryo and aleurone layer. The final stages of seed development are accompanied by an increase in desiccation tolerance and drying out of the mature seed. We have used two-dimensional gel electrophoresis for a time-resolved study of the changes in proteins that occur during seed development in barley (Hordeum vulgare). About 1,000 low-salt extractable protein spots could be resolved on the two-dimensional gels. Protein spots were divided into six categories according to the timing of appearance or disappearance during the 5-week period of comparison. Nineteen different proteins or protein fragments in 36 selected spots were identified by matrix-assisted laser-desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MS) or nano-electrospray tandem MS/MS. Some proteins were present throughout development (for example, cytosolic malate dehydrogenase), whereas others were associated with the early grain filling (ascorbate peroxidase) or desiccation (Cor14b) stages. Most noticeably, the development process is characterized by an accumulation of low-M  r α-amylase/trypsin inhibitors, serine protease inhibitors, and enzymes involved in protection against oxidative stress. We present examples of proteins not previously experimentally observed, differential extractability of thiol-bound proteins, and possible allele-specific spot variation. Our results both confirm and expand on knowledge gained from previous analyses of individual proteins involved in grain filling and maturation.
Two-Component Signal Transduction Pathways in Arabidopsis
Authors: Hwang Ildoo , Chen Huei-Chi , Sheen Jen
Published: July 2002

The two-component system, consisting of a histidine (His) protein kinase that senses a signal input and a response regulator that mediates the output, is an ancient and evolutionarily conserved signaling mechanism in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. The identification of 54 His protein kinases, His-containing phosphotransfer proteins, response regulators, and related proteins in Arabidopsis suggests an important role of two-component phosphorelay in plant signal transduction. Recent studies indicate that two-component elements are involved in plant hormone, stress, and light signaling. In this review, we present a genome analysis of the Arabidopsis two-component elements and summarize the major advances in our understanding of Arabidopsis two-component signaling.
Investigation of the Microheterogeneity and Aglycone Specificity-Conferring Residues of Black Cherry Prunasin Hydrolases
Authors: Zhou Jiming , Hartmann Stefanie , Shepherd Brianne K. , Poulton Jonathan E.
Published: July 2002

In black cherry (Prunus serotina Ehrh.) seed homogenates, (R)-amygdalin is degraded to HCN, benzaldehyde, and glucose by the sequential action of amygdalin hydrolase (AH), prunasin hydrolase (PH), and mandelonitrile lyase. Leaves are also highly cyanogenic because they possess (R)-prunasin, PH, and mandelonitrile lyase. Taking both enzymological and molecular approaches, we demonstrate here that black cherry PH is encoded by a putative multigene family of at least five members. Their respective cDNAs (designated Ph1,Ph2, Ph3, Ph4, andPh5) predict isoforms that share 49% to 92% amino acid identity with members of glycoside hydrolase family 1, including their catalytic asparagine-glutamate-proline and isoleucine-threonine-glutamate-asparagine-glycine motifs. Furthermore, consistent with the vacuolar/protein body location and glycoprotein character of these hydrolases, their open reading frames predict N-terminal signal sequences and multiple potential N-glycosylation sites. Genomic sequences corresponding to the open reading frames of these PHs and of the previously isolated AH1 isoform are interrupted at identical positions by 12 introns. Earlier studies established that native AH and PH display strict specificities toward their respective glucosidic substrates. Such behavior was also shown by recombinant AH1, PH2, and PH4 proteins after expression in Pichia pastoris. Three amino acid moieties that may play a role in conferring such aglycone specificities were predicted by structural modeling and comparative sequence analysis and tested by introducing single and multiple mutations into isoform AH1 by site-directed mutagenesis. The double mutant AH ID (Y200I and G394D) hydrolyzed prunasin at approximately 150% of the rate of amygdalin hydrolysis, whereas the other mutations failed to engender PH activity.
SPINDLY Is a Nuclear-Localized Repressor of Gibberellin Signal Transduction Expressed throughout the Plant
Authors: Swain Stephen M. , Tseng Tong-Seung , Thornton Tina M. , Gopalraj Manjula , Olszewski Neil E.
Published: July 2002

SPY (SPINDLY) encodes a putative O-linked N-acetyl-glucosamine transferase that is genetically defined as a negatively acting component of the gibberellin (GA) signal transduction pathway. Analysis of Arabidopsis plants containing aSPY::GUS reporter gene reveals thatSPY is expressed throughout the life of the plant and in most plant organs examined. In addition to being expressed in all organs where phenotypes due to spy mutations have been reported, SPY::GUS is expressed in the root. Examination of the roots of wild-type, spy, andgai plants revealed phenotypes indicating that SPY and GAI play a role in root development. A secondSPY::GUS reporter gene lacking part of the SPY promoter was inactive, suggesting that sequences in the first exon and/or intron are required for detectable expression. Using both subcellular fractionation and visualization of a SPY-green fluorescent protein fusion protein that is able to rescue thespy mutant phenotype, the majority of SPY protein was shown to be present in the nucleus. This result is consistent with the nuclear localization of other components of the GA response pathway and suggests that SPY's role as a negative regulator of GA signaling involves interaction with other nuclear proteins and/orO-N-acetyl-glucosamine modification of these proteins.
Contrapuntal Networks of Gene Expression during Arabidopsis Seed Filling[W]
Authors: Ruuska Sari A. , Girke Thomas , Benning Christoph , Ohlrogge John B.
Published: July 2002

We have used cDNA microarrays to examine changes in gene expression during Arabidopsis seed development and to compare wild-type and mutant wrinkled1 (wri1) seeds that have an 80% reduction in oil. Between 5 and 13 days after flowering, a period preceding and including the major accumulation of storage oils and proteins, ∼35% of the genes represented on the array changed at least twofold, but a larger fraction (65%) showed little or no change in expression. Genes whose expression changed most tended to be expressed more in seeds than in other tissues. Genes related to the biosynthesis of storage components showed several distinct temporal expression patterns. For example, a number of genes encoding core fatty acid synthesis enzymes displayed a bell-shaped pattern of expression between 5 and 13 days after flowering. By contrast, the expression of storage proteins, oleosins, and other known abscisic acid–regulated genes increased later and remained high. Genes for photosynthetic proteins followed a pattern very similar to that of fatty acid synthesis proteins, implicating a role in CO2 refixation and the supply of cofactors for oil synthesis. Expression profiles of key carbon transporters and glycolytic enzymes reflected shifts in flux from cytosolic to plastid metabolism. Despite major changes in metabolism between wri1 and wild-type seeds, <1% of genes differed by more than twofold, and most of these were involved in central lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. Thus, these data define in part the downstream responses to disruption of the WRI1 gene.
The ArabidopsisSKU5Gene Encodes an Extracellular Glycosyl Phosphatidylinositol–Anchored Glycoprotein Involved in Directional Root Growth[W]
Authors: Sedbrook John C. , Carroll Kathleen L. , Hung Kai F. , Masson Patrick H. , Somerville Chris R.
Published: July 2002

To investigate how roots respond to directional cues, we characterized a T-DNA–tagged Arabidopsis mutant named sku5 in which the roots skewed and looped away from the normal downward direction of growth on inclined agar surfaces. sku5 roots and etiolated hypocotyls were slightly shorter than normal and exhibited a counterclockwise (left-handed) axial rotation bias. The surface-dependent skewing phenotype disappeared when the roots penetrated the agar surface, but the axial rotation defect persisted, revealing that these two directional growth processes are separable. The SKU5 gene belongs to a 19-member gene family designated SKS (SKU5 Similar) that is related structurally to the multiple-copper oxidases ascorbate oxidase and laccase. However, the SKS proteins lack several of the conserved copper binding motifs characteristic of copper oxidases, and no enzymatic function could be assigned to the SKU5 protein. Analysis of plants expressing SKU5 reporter constructs and protein gel blot analysis showed that SKU5 was expressed most strongly in expanding tissues. SKU5 was glycosylated and modified by glycosyl phosphatidylinositol and localized to both the plasma membrane and the cell wall. Our observations suggest that SKU5 affects two directional growth processes, possibly by participating in cell wall expansion.
Effect of inhibitors on the nature of corrosion products of mild steel by Mossbauer and FTIR spectroscopy
Authors: Ramesh Kumar A.V. , Nigam R.K. , Monga S.S. , Mathur G.N.
Published: July 2002

Transmission Mossbauer Spectroscopy of corrosion products of mild steel immersed in 3 per cent NaCl and 3 per cent NaCl containing 0.03 M concentrations of different inhibitors viz. sodium nitrite, sodium molybdate, sodium tungstate, sodium meta borate and sodium hexameta phosphate were carried out to understand the corrosion process occurring under these conditions. All corrosion products showed the presence of γ‐FeOOH and superparamagnetic (SPM) α‐FeOOH. However, the corrosion product obtained on mild steel in presence of nitrite showed non‐stoichiometric magnetite (Fe3−xO4) along with oxyhydroxides. The corrosion products of steel in presence of phosphate inhibitor showed the presence of ferrous phosphate. The Mossbauer results were supported by FTIR studies. Electrochemical studies showed a high polarisation resistance (Rp) in ease of nitrite inhibitors. Therefore, it can be concluded that an inhibitor which promote the formation Fe3−xO4 can provide better protection for steel substrate.
Consumer perception of fresh meat quality: a framework for analysis
Authors: Becker Tilman
Published: July 2002

A model for analysis of consumer behaviour towards food is developed. This model is intended to bridge the gap between the objective quality approach pursued in food sciences, the product characteristics approach, and the subjectively perceived quality approach, the product attribute approach as pursued in the consumer behaviour literature. The focus is on the information processing by the consumer. Information on the product quality is supplied to the consumer in the form of cues received while shopping or consuming. A distinction is made between extrinsic and intrinsic cues, and between search‐, experience‐, and credence‐quality attributes. Within the credence attributes, three categories are distinguished: food safety, health, and all other credence quality attributes. It is demonstrated that public policy should use minimum standards for regulating food safety, information and consumer education on health issues and definitional standards to regulate the other credence qualities. In the case of search quality, no public intervention is needed. In the case of experience quality, reputation is a means of reducing the quality erosion inherent for experience quality attributes. In the case of those foods which are not sold prepacked over the counter, these means are restricted. Here the public regulators could consider backing up the private quality policy efforts on labelling by implementing traceability schemes and defining the requirements for specific label claims.
Tracking and traceability in the meat processing industry: a solution
Authors: Mousavi A. , Sarhadi M. , Lenk A. , Fawcett S.
Published: July 2002

The meat industry is seeking to establish reassurance on traceability and production techniques that may help to promote confidence in the integrity and origin of their products. This paper reviews research and development activities for traceability and trackability in the meat industry. Achievements of individuals and research groups developing tools and techniques to improve the production process in handling and cutting meat portions for end users are discussed. In addition software/hardware, logistics and technical requirements for tracking material in a production process are introduced. With the aid of such established tools and techniques coupled with novel proposals, the authors offer a practical solution for the development of a tracking and traceability system within the meat industry. The proposed prototype system is capable of identifying and handling a product and the information attached to it throughout the production process to retail packs.
Poor diet and smoking: the big killers
Authors: Lambert Nigel , Dibsdall Louise A. , Frewer Lynn J.
Published: July 2002

Encouraging the UK public to quit smoking has been a public health feature for over a century to a greater or lesser degree. Persuading people to consume five or more portions of fruits and vegetables is a far newer health policy, with a history of only some ten years. The article compares the established anti‐smoking campaign with that of the fledgling “five‐a‐day” campaign to discover what, if anything, the latter can learn from the former, and what the future prospects may be for improving food choice. The two campaigns are compared in terms of the quality of health message and the environmental pressures adopted to facilitate the desired health behaviour. Motivation issues and the need to engage the public more were also seen as key campaign factors.
Halo – Case Study of the Evolution of a Healthy Product
Authors: Wheelock Verner
Published: July 2002

Describes the development of Halo, a new milk‐type product which has
less than 20 per cent of the amount of saturated fat to be found in
semi‐skimmed milk; and a very acceptable taste. Shows how the product
was developed by Northern Dairies in line with Government targets to
reduce the level of saturated fat in each individual′s diet. Discusses
product development, ingredients, research on taste and acceptability
and concludes that Halo is tasty and acceptable and can help to make a
substantial reduction in the consumption of saturated fat.
The Demand for Organically Grown Produce
Authors: Tregear A. , Dent J.B. , McGregor M.J.
Published: July 2002

A postal survey was sent to 150 supermarkets and 112 wholefood shops in
the UK; response rates were 53 and 67 per cent, respectively. A
telephone survey with 242 members of the general public was conducted in
Scotland; there was a 63 per cent positive response. Research found that
29 per cent of the general public bought organic foods at some time.
An Evaluation of the Nutri‐Test Dietary Assessment Software
Authors: Seaman Claire E.A. , Caughey Penny , Kirk Terry
Published: July 2002

Recognizes the need for computer programs which provide simple,
user‐friendly techniques by which individuals can assess their diet. To
this end the Nutri‐Test Computer Software was developed to raise
awareness in users of the need to increase the percentage of energy
derived from carbohydrate and to decrease the percentage of energy
derived from fat in the UK diet. The Nutri‐Test was validated by
comparing results with those obtained from a five‐day food diary.
Results indicate that data obtained using the Nutri‐Test software and
the food diary were very similar, inspiring confidence in the accuracy
and reliability of the Nutri‐Test.
Dining out on Sociological Neglect
Authors: Wood Roy C.
Published: July 2002

Offers a brief overview of some of the key issues to arise so far from
the sociological analysis of dining out. Commencing with a short survey
of the main theoretical perspectives in the field, develops the
discussion to include consideration of the nature of dining out as a
social activity. Particular attention is paid to the concept of the
“meal experience” and the interplay that exists between consumers and the
food and hospitality industries in creating and sustaining this
experience. Argues that contemporary styles and modes of provision and
the experience of dining out is marked by a retreat from food as the
principal element in the restaurant “product”, greater emphasis being
placed on the contexts in which foods are provided and how these
contexts relate to lifestyle and other factors.
Marketing Eating Out
Authors: Riley Michael
Published: July 2002

Argues that eating out in Britain has no basis in social culture and therefore exists without any consensual value as to what is recognized as good. As a consequence it is open to the influence of innovation and novelty. The concept of “lifestyle” is evoked as a focus of consumption patterns and it is argued that as eating out has no cultural support it is open to greater competition from other attributes of lifestyle. The debate between holistic versus attribute evaluation is resolved firmly in favour of the former. The implications of this, and the absence of a cultural anchor with its attendant effect on lifestyle, are explored in relation to marketing strategies. The distinction is made between unit marketing, market segmentation and the task of attracting more people into the activity of eating out. Home orientation is seen as the barrier to development.
Gastrosophy and Nouvelle Cuisine: Entrepreneurial Fashion and Fiction
Authors: Gillespie Cailein H.
Published: July 2002

Defines the term “gastrosophy” and focuses on “chef gastrosophers” whose
specialist field is professional expertise in gastronomy and
hospitality. The position these individuals occupy today has been
brought about by a succession of cultural, metaphysical and
technological factors. Chef gastrosophers have progressed the aims of
gastronomy, by becoming leading figures in contemporary cuisine. They
occupy positions at the apex of the modern culinary hierarchy, having
demonstrated individualism, entrepreneurship and a willingness to take
risks. They set the culinary pace of the hospitality industry, and have
invested in the cult of personality, freely utilizing public relations
and image creation techniques. Chef gastrosophers have realized that the
modern hospitality industry has a dynamic which requires the business
proprietor to innovate, to create bold images and identities and to
market these. The hospitality they offer is intended to be holistic,
where a complete experience, offering fleeting artistic theatre, has
been distilled from haute cuisine.
The development of the UK market for intense and bulk sweeteners
Authors: McQuillan M. , Heller E. , Corver M.
Published: July 2002

Summarizes the recent changes that have taken place in both the
individual intense and bulk sweeteners markets and considers their
likely influence on the pattern of intake observed in the 1987/88 diary
record surveys carried out by MAFF. The intense sweetener market
continues to develop steadily, largely driven by the diet, low‐calorie
and reduced calorie soft drinks market. The bulk sweeteners market has
not been subject to the same rapid development experienced for intense
sweeteners, but the signs are there that the market for this class of
sweetener is starting to develop and a variety of new applications are
beginning to emerge. Provides a brief overview for each of the currently
approved individual intense and bulk sweeteners and describes their
contribution to the UK sweeteners market. Discusses the implications of
the EC Sweeteners Directive, which has recently been adopted by member
states and will be implemented in the UK within the next year or so, in
relation to acceptable levels of sweetener intake.
How are dietary surveys planned?
Authors: Seaman Claire
Published: July 2002

Examines the evaluation of individuals′ diets in the light of their
specific requirements, emphasizing that a clear understanding of the
techniques available is crucial, with special consideration being shown
for age, health, motivation, funding, personnel available and certain
ethical aspects as factors in selecting a sample group. Discusses diet
history, the practice of 24‐hour recall, diaries for food intake both
weighed and estimated, and the use of food frequency questionnaires.
Also potential sources of error, especially regarding the analysis of
relevant data.
Fruit and vegetables
Authors: Leather Suzi
Published: July 2002

Opens by identifying fruit and vegetable consumption differences
between socio‐economic groups in Britain. Goes on to outline current
understanding of antioxidants and the role they have in preventing or
stemming disease processes. Explores factors which determine consumption
of fruit and vegetables across all social groups, before considering in
detail the impact of inadequate income. Considers the relationship
between smoking, low income and fruit and vegetable consumption and
notes that despite increased antioxidant requirements smokers on low
income exhibit lower levels of consumption. Rejects the notion that such
purchasing patterns are irrational in the circumstances and concludes
that a national healthy diet policy, particularly one which increases
the consumption of fruit and vegetables, cannot be dissociated from
social protection.
The COMA report on nutritional aspects of cardiovascular disease:
Authors: de la Hunty Anne
Published: July 2002

Summarizes the main conclusions and recommendations of the recent
COMA report on the nutritional aspects of cardiovascular disease.
Reinforces existing advice to reduce total fat, especially saturated
fatty acids. Emphasizes the importance of the long chain n‐3
polyunsaturated fatty acids. For the first time, COMA has advocated a
reduction in the sodium intake – by three grams (about 30 per
cent) in the average UK diet. A diet high in fruit and vegetables is
also recommended.
Animal welfare
Authors: Hughes David
Published: July 2002

Explores key trends explaining consumer concerns and actions on
animal welfare. Concludes that concerns are not a fad, but deep‐seated
and here to stay. UK livestock production, distribution and processing
systems and practices have evolved, will and should evolve to allow farm
animals “to enjoy a decent life” and to satisfy reasonable
consumer concerns on animal welfare matters. Presents the UK industry
with both threats and opportunities. Livestock products that are animal
welfare‐friendly, produced with traditional/natural methods and carry
“passports” offer important consumer benefits that can
provide a competitive edge. The farm sector needs to forge alliances
with organizations, such as the RSPCA, which are viewed as credible on
welfare matters by consumers. However, addressing consumer concerns
about animals, per se, will not reverse the declining domestic
market for livestock products – this will require more
comprehensive, industry‐wide efforts to deliver the full range of
benefits to consumers that they demand from food products in the
twenty‐first century.
Segmenting the UK egg market: results of a survey of consumer attitudes and perceptions
Authors: Fearne Andrew , Lavelle David
Published: July 2002

Despite the long‐term decline in per capita consumption, eggs remain an important staple in the British diet. Having recovered from the salmonella scare in 1989, the image of eggs has suffered in recent years due to the growing awareness of (and concern over) diet and health, and bird welfare. Reports the results of a recent consumer survey and concludes that there is a polarization of egg consumers, with free‐range consumers at one extreme, largely influenced by bird welfare, and battery consumers at the other, for whom functional properties (size and shell) and value for money are the major factors determining egg purchasing behaviour.
Genetic manipulation of crops
Authors: Shewry Peter R. , Lazzeri Paul
Published: July 2002

Genetic engineering offers an opportunity to improve aspects of the agronomic performance, resistance to pests and pathogens and end use quality of crops by inserting specific genes. Discusses the basic principles and procedures of plant genetic engineering, including the use of particle bombardment for delivery of genes into regenerable tissues. Also discusses how this technology can be used to alter the level (up or down‐regulation) or pattern of expression of endogenous genes, or to insert novel activities or properties by inserting genes from other sources (other plants, animals or microbes). Finally, describes work in progress in our own laboratories on the improvement of the bread‐ making quality of wheat by manipulating the amount and composition of the HMW subunits of glutenin.
Genetic modification of farm animals
Authors: Bulfield Grahame
Published: July 2002

Animal production is still a major UK industry of about £10 billion and like all aspects of agriculture faces a number of challenges. The biotechnology revolution is also sweeping through the industry with a range of major emerging technologies becoming available. Describes these technologies and discusses their potential impact on the agro‐food industry and the public. Although the issues raised appear at first sight novel, they can be regulated under the current framework available within the UK; public concern over some of the technologies is genuine but in most cases can be answered. Currently research in the UK puts this country at the forefront of these technologies and the emerging commercial opportunities must not be lost.
Choice of weaning foods
Authors: Seaman Claire E.A. , D’Alessandro Diane , Swannie Marlene
Published: July 2002

Choice of weaning and infant foods was established among a group of 56 mothers resident in Edinburgh who had infants under 18 months of age. The survey looked at the use of commercial and home‐made infant foods and aimed to identify the factors which influenced the decision to use commercial or homemade foods during weaning. Results indicate that, while convenience and perceived suitability for infants are a major factor in the decision to use commercial infant foods, first or only children are much more likely to be fed commercial infant foods. Mothers who were employed outside the home did not use commercial baby foods more than mothers who were at home with their children and, although older mothers were slightly more likely to make infant foods in the home, the differences were not statistically significant. While further work is essential to establish a nationwide view, these provisional results provide further insight into factors which affect choice of infant foods.
Cinnamates and hydroxybenzoates in the diet: antioxidant activity assessed using the ABTS•+ radical cation
Authors: Miller Nicholas J. , Rice‐Evans Catherine A.
Published: July 2002

Examines the antioxidant activities of a range of hydroxy‐substituted phenolic acids by estimating their relative abilities to scavenge the ABTS_+ radical cation generated in the aqueous phase, expressed as the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC value). These common food components have varying reducing abilities, dependent on the positions and extent of hydroxylation of their phenol ring. Reports the research results which suggest that some simple phenolic acids are most effective antioxidants, up to two to three times as active as vitamin C. Their relative abundance in fruits, oils, etc. indicates that they may be highly significant contributors to the overall dietary antioxidant intake. Para‐coumaric acid (4‐hydroxycinnamic acid) was found to have a TEAC value of 2.2mM (more than twice the antioxidant activity of vitamin C). Ferulic acid (3‐methoxy, 4‐hydroxycinnamic acid), the active component of oryzanol (rice bran oil) was found to have a TEAC value of 1.9 mM and gallic acid (3, 4, 5‐trihydroxybenzoic acid) a TEAC of 3.0mM (i.e. three times the antioxidant activity of vitamin C). Discusses the significance of these and other related compounds as food antioxidants and as non‐nutrient antioxidants in the diet.
Category management in the food industry: a research agenda
Authors: Hutchins Richard
Published: July 2002

Discusses the research opportunities brought about by the adoption of category management in the food industry and suggests reasons why category management might be of interest to academics. Reviews contemporary research and proposes a multidisciplinary research agenda which crosses the academic‐industrial interface. Suggests four principal research themes: beneficiaries and benefits of category management; the process of organizational change; the management of categories; and the implications of category management adoption. Discusses these themes in the context of research already undertaken and details areas meriting closer investigation.
Regional foods: a consumer perspective
Authors: Kuznesof Sharron , Tregear Angela , Moxey Andrew
Published: July 2002

Investigates consumer perceptions of “regional foods” in England. Results show understandings of regional foods to be a complex dynamic of interrelated concepts. Regional foods are defined by place and human‐related factors. An implicit factor in attitudes towards regional food is the “perceived authenticity” of the various product attributes by the consumer. Regional foods are characterized as “regional products” (high‐value, speciality or hand‐crafted products) and “regional recipes” (dishes readily associated with home preparation and cooking). Proposes that findings have implications for marketing, in particular product differentiation and communication. Implications are discussed for food producers and retailers, and recommendations are made for future research.
Food labelling from a consumer perspective
Authors: Wandel Margareta
Published: July 2002

Posits that food labelling is one medium by which consumers can acquire knowledge about the food they consider buying. This type of information is becoming increasingly important in a food market where direct contact with the personnel over the counter is declining. Reports the results from a pilot study and a consumer survey including 1050 respondents. Reveals that the majority of consumers read the food labels (often, sometimes or seldom), and that the reading frequency was associated with the degree of uncertainty about the food supply. Additives occupied a far more prominent place in these reading activities, than what could be expected from the respondents’ general notions of what constitutes a healthy diet. Discusses these results with regard to consumer apprehension of the presentation of data on the food labels.
Vegetable consumption among Scottish children: a review of the determinants and proposed strategies to overcome low consumption
Authors: Baxter Irene A. , Schroder Monika J.A.
Published: July 2002

Discusses the factors shaping Scottish children’s perceptions of vegetables as a means of explaining their low vegetable consumption. Examines the impact that sensory factors, the child’s family and eating experiences, and environmental factors (i.e. socio‐economic factors/income, culture, eating patterns and advertising) have on children’s vegetable consumption. Additionally, makes suggestions for strategies to overcome some of these factors which affect children’s low consumption of vegetables.
The new fasces of the fast food market? The potential for consortia in pizza home delivery
Authors: Price Stuart
Published: July 2002

The pizza food service market is becoming increasingly polarized, the independent operators are operating in illiberal market conditions. Presents a taxonomy of competition within the food service market, and suggests that the independent operators could become members of a consortia to improve their position. Gives some of the results of a survey of independent operators, which indicates there are mixed feelings concerning membership.
Gruppo Massone ‐ acquisition venture into the UK
Authors: Cuomo Gennaro , Vignali Maria
Published: July 2002

This case study sets out the strategic options available to the Massone Group for its possible entry into the UK catering market. It outlines and summarises the contract catering market including an analysis of the major players in the industry. There is little consolidation across the manufacturing and catering sectors and so it is necessary to examine the food manufacturing sector separately. With this background, we describe and illustrate the grants available from both the UK and EU to any potential investment. This section outlines the funds applicable to each strategic category (greenfield, premises or acquisition) described later in the case study. Included within the analysis of greenfield sites are two examples from nearby Merseyside and a specific evaluation of the specific grants or assistance available for such sites.
Speciality and artisanal cheeses today: the product and the consumer
Authors: Kupiec Beata , Revell Brian
Published: July 2002

This paper aims to identify and describe the determinants of consumer attitudes towards artisanal cheeses within the speciality cheese market and the reasons behind the growing interest in this premium value sector as evinced by two surveys of specialist food retailers and artisanal cheese consumers. The survey results obtained are presented in the context of a changing consumption culture and the concept of an emerging “postmodern” consumerism. Artisanal cheese consumers focus on the unique characteristics of the products and their distinctive character in relation to mass produced industrial cheeses. Price and functional properties of artisanal cheeses are less important in the consumer purchase decision. Artisanal cheese consumers are characterised by “variety seeking” behaviour. This is stimulated by the broad range of available flavours, tastes and cheese types and suggests a low degree of brand or even cheese‐type loyalty among such consumers. The “plural” nature of the “speciality” cheese market accommodates well the highly individual and fragmented requirements of consumers of artisanal cheeses.
Purchase involvement methodology and product profiles: the case of cheese products in Greece
Authors: Hughes David , Hutchins Richard , Karathanassi Vassia
Published: July 2002

The article examines how purchase involvement theory can be used to assist marketing management in making more effective marketing mix decisions. The relationships between product purchase involvement and its antecedents are analysed, using examples from the Greek market for cheese. Mechanisms for measuring purchase involvement are identified. Product profiles are constructed for varieties of cheese and their usefulness as a segmentation tool is discussed. Implications of the results for marketing management and areas for further research are identified.
Developing human and social capital in organisations
Authors: Cunningham Ian
Published: July 2002

Argues for the importance of developing social capital in organisations. If training stays focused on the individual (human capital) level it may be missing out on important changes in developing organisational performance. The use of self managed learning (SML) is examined through reference to two cases where SML programmes have been carefully evaluated and shown to contribute to the development of both social capital and human capital.
Interpersonal sources of health and maternity information for Somali women living in the UK
Authors: Davies Myfanwy M. , Bath Peter A.
Published: July 2002

Although the information needs of women receiving antenatal and postnatal care are well understood, few studies have examined the use of information by minority ethnic women. This paper describes a pilot study that aimed to identify the main maternity information sources used by Somali women living in a northern city in the UK. The study described here utilised unstructured exploratory focus group and semi‐structured interviews with Somali women. All discussions and interviews were audiotaped, translated and transcribed in their entirety and then analysed using a variation of the theme analysis method. Sources of information emerged as a sub‐theme from the data. Women sought and used information from several interpersonal sources. Many were dependent on general practitioners and health visitors for maternity information, although participants favoured community health forums addressed by health professionals. Women also sought maternity information from friends and neighbours. Interpersonal sources as a whole were viewed as having a number of advantages. Informal sources in particular were perceived as being approachable and providing a means through which further information could be sought, while each information source was also evaluated according to specific criteria. The implications of these findings for minority ethnic women are discussed and recommendations for further research are outlined.
Research trends in library and information science at the International Islamic University Malaysia
Authors: Abdoulaye Kaba
Published: July 2002

Many universities require students enrolling in masters programmes to submit a thesis for the completion of the programme, and the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) is no exception. This study investigates and identifies research trends of the MLIS students’ theses for the past nine years at IIUM. The study also investigated features and characteristics of MLIS students’ theses. A total of 20 theses approved from 1994 to 2000, by the university, were analyzed. Findings showed that, information technology (OPAC, CD‐ROM and the Internet) was the most popular research area (50 per cent) among MLIS students. Other areas such as information needs, library management, library use, and publishers/publishing only received one research each, while none of the students explored the history of libraries, cataloguing and classification, indexing and abstracting, cooperation or documentation. On the other hand, a majority of the theses targeted universities or academic libraries, faculty members, job design and reference services, while a small number of the students targeted other areas such as Islamic economy, biomedical scientists, copyright, etc.