bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of cellulose treated by the steam explosion method. Part 1: Influence of cellulose resources on changes in morphology, degree of polymerisation, solubility and solid structure
Authors: Yamashiki Takashi , Matsui Toshihiko , Saitoh Masayoshi , Okajima Kunihiko , Kamide Kenji , Sawada Tatsuro
Published: April 2007

Steam explosion treatment was carried out on almost pure natural celluloses (wood pulps and purified cotton linter) to obtain alkali‐soluble cellulose and to clarify the effect of cellulose resources on the changes in morphology, viscosity‐average degree of polymerisation Pv, solubility towards aqueous alkali solution Sa, and supermolecular structure of the celluloses. Soft wood pulp was most effectively treated in view of the changes in morphology and Pv, but cotton linter was found to be resistant to the treatment. The degree of breakdown of intramolecular hydrogen bonding at C3 and C6 (Xam(C3) and Xam(C6), respectively), as determined by solid‐state cross‐polarisation/magic angle sample spinning (CP/MAS) NMR, had a tendency to increase for soft wood pulp by the steam treatment employed here. Contrary to this, the crystallinity and the average crystal size estimated by X‐ray diffraction increased. Solubility of the treated wood pulps towards aqueous alkali solution can be improved to 100% when suitable conditions for the steam explosion are chosen to give Pv less than 400 and Xam(C3) greater than 44% and Xam(C6) greater than 33%. Solid‐state NMR analysis may suggest that hydrogen bond formation at the C2 hydroxyl group may first take place in the structural change of cellulose during the steam explosion.
An indirect method which ranks the adhesion in natural rubber filled with different types of cellulose fibres by plots of E(t)/Et=0 versus log t
Authors: Flink Per , Stenberg Bengt
Published: April 2007

The suggestion that composites with good bonding between fibres and matrix have a faster stress relaxation rate than composites with poor bonding between fibres and matrix is supported here by measurements on natural rubber filled with untreated cellulose fibres, allyl acrylate grafted cellulose fibres and allyl methacrylate grafted cellulose fibres.
Studies on Langmuir‐Blodgett multilayer formation from preformed poly(N‐alkylacrylamides)
Authors: Miyashita Tokuji , Mizuta Yasushi , Matsuda Minoru
Published: April 2007

The spreading behaviour of preformed poly(N‐alkylacrylamides) having hexyl (PHA), octyl (POA), decyl (PDA), dodecyl (PDDA), tetradecyl (PTDA), hexadecyl (PHDA), and octadecyl (PODA) substituents on a water surface, and the properties of the Langmuir‐Blodgett (LB) films deposited from these polymer monolayers were investigated. The surface pressure (F)‐area (A) isotherms of the polymer monolayers were changed by the chain length of the substituents and the subphase temperature. The optimum conditions for the formation of a stable condensed monolayer from the polymer series of similar molecular weight (c. 4 × 103) were found when the alkyl substituent was the dodecyl group (i.e. PDDA) and the subphase temperature was 19°C. The condensed monolayers of PDA, PDDA, and PTDA could be transferred successively on to solid supports such as quartz slides, giving the Y‐type uniform polymer LB films. The successive uniform depositions of PDDA monolayer up to 320 layers were confirmed by a relationship between the absorbance at around 200 nm due to carbonyl group and the number of layers deposited. The thickness of PDDA monolayer in the LB film was 1.72nm which agrees with the length of the dodecylamide substituent. F‐A isotherms, FTIR, and X‐ray diffraction measurements support that the polymer main chains are laid horizontally on the water surface and the alkyl substituents are oriented perpendicular to the chain in the condensed monolayer (see Scheme 1).
Synthesis and characterization of functional polymers containing Azo‐ and peroxycarbamate groups
Authors: Baysal Bahattin M.
Published: April 2007

In this review, the synthesis and characterization of various dimeric and polymeric peroxycarbamates and azocarbamates are described in detail. These functional polymers are synthesized by stepwise capping reactions of hydroxyl terminated polyethers, polyesters or poly(butadiene) first with diisocyanates, and then with hydroperoxides or various azo compounds containing functional groups. Statistics of chain extension reactions are discussed. Kinetic parameters of thermal decomposition are reported. These functional polymers are useful for preparing block copolymers containing soft and glassy segments.
Synthesis and phase behaviour of aromatic poly (esteramide)s
Authors: He Z. , Whitcombe M. J. , Mitchell G. R.
Published: April 2007

The synthesis of a series of aromatic poly(esteramide)s and the initial characterisation of these materials is reported in this paper. The polymers were prepared by transesterification polycondensation of various bis(p‐alkyl benzoate) aliphatic diamides with diols of differing lengths. Most of the polymers gave multiple endothermic peaks during heating in the DSC, and polarising optical microscopy revealed a number of different types of spherulites. X‐ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy were used to probe the molecular correlations in the various crystalline phases. No evidence was found for liquid crystallisation.
Management practices in U.S. affiliates of foreign‐owned firms: Are “they” just like “Us”?
Authors: Rosenzweig Philip M.
Published: April 2007

Despite considerable debate about foreign direct investment in the United States, little research has examined the inner workings of U.S. affiliates of foreign‐owned firms. This study examines the management practices in 249 U.S. affiliates of foreign‐owned firms. Findings show that practices in marketing, human resource management, and manufacturing tend to more closely resemble the practices of local competitors than those of the foreign parent, whereas for practices in financial control the dominant resemblance is to the parent. Furthermore, findings reveal that affiliates are comprised overwhelmingly of Americans, not only at lower levels of the organization but also in key executive positions, although affiliates of Japanese firms stand apart in their greater reliance on expatriates. Foreign affiliates of multinational firms are revealed as differentiated sets of practices, shaped by the interplay of local responsiveness and internal consistency. The findings also make plain that U.S. affiliates of foreign‐owned firms are in many ways very much like American firms. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Trends in international business thought and literature: Filling competence and skills gaps in management education and training in the baltic states
Authors: Paul Jan‐Peter
Published: April 2007

After a 50‐year Soviet occupation, the three Baltic states, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania gained independence in the early 1990s (Nordberg, 1993: 27). The socialist planned economy left the Baltic countries' economies and industrial structures in a state of disarray. Industries developed during the Soviet occupation were, in fact, inefficient, old‐fashioned, and too large in size for these small countries. The planned industrial and demand base was the Soviet Union. After independence, products could not be sold on Western markets without significant new Western investments (Nordberg, 1993: 37, 68‐69, 110).

The underdeveloped industrial sector and the centralized influence of the Gosplan‐system had a significant detrimental influence on the management of the state‐run companies. In the centrally planned system, the skills and competencies of management were not necessarily success factors; political priorities dominated. Large numbers of Russians were sent to all three Baltic states as workers, middle management, and as executives. In 1989 nearly 34 percent of the citizens of Latvia were of Russian origin, in Estonia the figure was 30 percent, and in Lithuania nearly 10 percent (Nordberg, 1993: 38).

The companies in the Baltic states were seen as production units of a large centrally managed system. Marketing, sales, finance, and investment decisions were made in Moscow. Management training was production oriented. Most companies were primarily concerned with filling production quotas.

With independence, everything changed. Markets, marketing, management, financing, and other normal business skills became essential for success. As privatization of state‐owned industries commenced and Western competitors appeared on the market, the competence and skills gap of the Baltic executive became apparent to international partners as well as to Baltic national governments. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Bargaining with the gringos: An exploratory study of negotiations between Mexican and U.S. firms
Authors: Husted Bryan W.
Published: April 2007

This study examines the nature of negotiations between Mexican and U.S. business people. It was learned that U.S. negotiators tend to be more structured, less flexible, more direct, more focused on the specific terms of the agreement, and possibly more assertive than their Mexican counterparts. Factor analysis revealed five factors related to the success of negotiations between Mexican and U.S. business people: attributes of communication, knowledge, good faith in arranging countertrades, delivery requirements, and personal relationships. Communication problems appear to have a more important impact on successful negotiations than do the technical or financial aspects of the negotiation. Contexting and reciprocity are related themes that need to be given more attention if negotiations between Mexican and US. business people are to improve. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A public–private model for health service delivery
Authors: Samper Henry Gómez , Malavé José , Piñango Ramón
Published: April 2007

Ascardio, a not‐for‐profit association formed in 1976, provides organization, staff, physical plant, and economic support to operate the Health Ministry's Regional Cardiovascular Center for west‐central Venezuela, thus combining the management features of a private foundation with the public objectives of a national bureaucracy. A wide range of in‐ and outpatient services are offered, with cardiovascular service growth outpacing that of major public hospitals elsewhere in Venezuela. Management features include novel approaches to staff compensation, employee empowerment, information controls, fee charges, and a wide‐ranging support network that spans private sector medical and public health bureaucracy linkages as well as political, volunteer, and patient groups. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Employee benefits through a trade association
Authors: Mendelewski Francisco Fernández
Published: April 2007

Chile's Construction Chamber (CCC) operates a network of 13 companies that provide Chamber member firms with employee health care, health and old‐age insurance fund management, vocational training, and sports and recreational programs. By operating these programs successfully long before the introduction of Chile's free market reforms, CCC has shown how private enterprise can replace unwieldy state‐supported social welfare systems with reliable, self‐supporting services. CCC's strong, cohesive corporate culture, largely shaped by managers loaned by member firms to the Chamber and to its companies, has facilitated the timely introduction of new services and contributed to CCC's lobbying and negotiation skills in a changing economic and political system. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The need for local agencies to provide expatriate support programs
Authors: Marlin Matthew R. , Hanson David P. , Hook Marion K.
Published: April 2007

This study assesses the need for local support services for the families of expatriate employees working in foreign countries. One major finding is that the spouses of expatriate employees have significantly different attitudes toward the need for local services than do company management. Second, our results indicate that the country of origin has a significant effect on the spouses' assessment of the need for local support and assistance. As a result of these findings, we conclude that the existence of local support services may have a significant impact on the location decisions, success, and retention of international firms. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Political risk analysis in north American multinationals: An empirical review and assessment
Authors: Stapenhurst Frederick
Published: April 2007

Political risk analysis (PRA) emerged during the late 1970s as an important component of environmental assessment. This article replicates a 1987 study that examined the approach to PRA in North American corporations, and assesses the changes that have occurred. The principal finding is that while there has been relatively little change within the “continuing practitioners” regarding organizational approach to, and use of, PRA, there are a number of significant differences between these corporations and “late adopters” of PRA. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Lack of fit between business community and corporate culture: The case of a multinational company in Venezuela
Authors: Berlin Margalit
Published: April 2007

The conflict between the culture of a multinational corporation and the culture of the local business environment in Venezuela is the focus of this study. Corporate culture serves as an integrating mechanism for a corporation that is expanding globally. At the same time, local Latin American managers have their own guidelines for achieving personal success in business dealings. As the two philosophies may not be in harmony, long‐time local managers often experience dissatisfaction, causing them to advance their careers through entrepreneurial opportunities at local firms. This loss of management talent is a cost the multinational experiences by adhering to the headquarters culture rather than allowing some adaptation for differences in local business practices. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Self‐authorship: The foundation for twenty‐first‐century education
Authors: Baxter Magolda Marcia B.
Published: April 2007

Innovative educational practice reveals the secrets to enabling complex learning and self‐authorship.
Functional analysis of Candida albicans genes whose Saccharomyces cerevisiae homologues are involved in endocytosis
Authors: Martin Ronny , Hellwig Daniela , Schaub Yvonne , Bauer Janine , Walther Andrea , Wendland Jürgen
Published: April 2007

PCR‐based techniques for directed gene alterations have become standard tools in Candida albicans. To help to increase the speed of functional analysis of Candida albicans genes, we previously constructed and updated a modular set of pFA‐plasmid vectors for PCR‐based gene targeting in C. albicans. Here we report the functional analyses of C. albicans ORFs whose homologues in S. cerevisiae are involved in endocytosis, to explore their potential involvement in polarized cell growth. Three C. albicans genes, ABP1, BZZ1 and EDE1, were found to be non‐essential. Yeast and hyphal morphogenesis were not affected by the individual deletions and the mutant strains appeared wild‐type‐like under the different growth conditions tested. On the other hand, deletion of both alleles of the C. albicans PAN1 homologue was not feasible. Promoter shut‐down experiments using a MET3p–PAN1/pan1 strain indicated severe growth defects and abolished endocytosis, indicating that PAN1 is an essential gene. Subcellular distribution of CaAbp1 and CaPan1 was analysed via GFP‐tagged proteins. Both proteins were found to localize at the cortex and at hyphal tips in a patch‐like manner, supporting their role in endocytosis. Localization patterns of Abp1 and Pan1, however, were distinct from that of the FM4‐64 stained Spitzenkörper. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cardiomyocyte‐restricted over‐expression of C‐type natriuretic peptide prevents cardiac hypertrophy induced by myocardial infarction in mice
Authors: Wang Yong , de Waard Monique C. , Sterner‐Kock Anja , Stepan Holger , Schultheiss Heinz‐Peter , Duncker Dirk J. , Walther Thomas
Published: April 2007

Objective:

Infused C‐type natriuretic peptide (CNP) was recently found to play a cardioprotective role in preventing myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury and improving cardiac remodelling after myocardial infarction (MI) in rats. Our study aimed to investigate the effect of cardiomyocyte‐specific CNP over‐expression on I/R injury and MI in transgenic mice.

Methods and results:

We generated transgenic (TG) mice over‐expressing CNP in cardiomyocytes. Elevated CNP expression on RNA and protein levels was demonstrated by RNase‐protection assay and radioimmunoassay. Male TG mice and age‐matched wild‐type (WT) littermates were subjected to 1‐hour global myocardial ischaemia and 23 h of reperfusion or permanent ligation of the coronary artery for 3 weeks.

Infarct size did not differ between the WT and TG groups in mice subjected to I/R. In mice that underwent permanent ligation of coronary arteries, both left and right ventricular hypertrophy were prevented by CNP over‐expression 3 weeks post‐MI. Histological analysis revealed less necrosis, muscular degeneration and inflammation in infarcted TG mice. Impairment of cardiac function was less pronounced in transgenic animals than in the wild‐type controls.

Conclusions:

Over‐expression of CNP in cardiomyocytes does not affect I/R‐induced infarct size but prevents cardiac hypertrophy induced by MI. Therefore, CNP may represent a potent therapeutic target for the treatment of patients with cardiac hypertrophy induced by myocardial infarction or other aetiology.
Diverse stress signals activate the C1 subgroup MAP kinases of Arabidopsis
Authors: Ortiz-Masia Dolores , Perez-Amador Miguel A. , Carbonell Juan , Marcote Maria J.
Published: April 2007

Mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades play an important role in mediating stress responses in plants. In Arabidopsis, 20 MAPKs have been identified and classified into four major groups (A–D). Little is known about the role of group C MAPKs. We have studied the activation of Arabidopsis subgroup C1 MAPKs (AtMPK1/AtMPK2) in response to mechanical injury. An increase in their kinase activity was detected in response to wounding that was blocked by cycloheximide. Jasmonic acid (JA) activated AtMPK1/AtMPK2 in the absence of wounding. Wound and JA‐induction of AtMPK1/2 kinase activity was not prevented in the JA‐insensitive coi1 mutant. Other stress signals, such as abscisic acid (ABA) and hydrogen peroxide, activated AtMPK1/2. This report shows for the first time that regulation of AtMPK1/2 kinase activity in Arabidopsis might be under the control of signals involved in different kinds of stress.
Analysis of glacial earthquakes
Authors: Tsai Victor C. , Ekström Göran
Published: April 2007

In 2003, Ekström et al. reported on the detection of a new class of earthquakes that occur in glaciated regions, with the vast majority being in Greenland. The events have a characteristic radiation pattern and lack the high‐frequency content typical of tectonic earthquakes. It was proposed that the events correspond to large and sudden sliding motion of glaciers. Here we present an analysis of all 184 such events detected in Greenland between 1993 and 2005. Fitting the teleseismic long‐period surface waves to a landslide model of the source, we obtain improved locations, timing, force amplitudes, and force directions. After relocation, the events cluster into seven regions, all of which correspond to regions of very high ice flow and most of which are named outlet glaciers. These regions are Daugaard Jensen Glacier, Kangerdlugssuaq Glacier, Helheim Glacier, the southeast Greenland glaciers, the northwest Greenland glaciers, Rinks Isbrae, and Jakobshavn Isbrae. Event amplitudes range from 0.1 to 2.0 × 1014kg m. Force directions are consistent with sliding in the direction of glacial flow over a period of about 50 s. Each region has a different temporal distribution of events. All glaciers are more productive in the summer, but have their peak activity in different months. Over the study period, Kangerdlugssuaq has had a constant number of events each year, whereas Jakobshavn had most events in 1998–1999, and the number of events in Helheim and the northwest Greenland glaciers has increased substantially between 1993 and 2005. The size distribution of events in Kangerdlugssuaq is peaked above the detection threshold, suggesting that glacial earthquakes have a characteristic size.
Upscaling matrix diffusion coefficients for heterogeneous fractured rocks
Authors: Dai Zhenxue , Wolfsberg Andrew , Lu Zhiming , Reimus Paul
Published: April 2007

The scale dependence of the matrix diffusion coefficient (Dm) for fractured media has been observed at variable scales from column experiments to field tracer tests. In this paper, we derive an effective Dm for multimodal heterogeneous fractured rocks using characteristic distributions of matrix properties and volume averaging of the mass transfer coefficient. The effective field‐scale Dm is dependent on the statistics (geometric mean, variance, and integral scale) of laboratory‐scale ln(Dm) and on the domain size. The effective Dm increases with the integral scales and is larger than the geometric mean of ln(Dm). Monte Carlo simulations with 1000 realizations of heterogeneous Dm fields were conducted to assess the accuracy of the derived effective Dm.
TLXI, a novel type of xylanase inhibitor from wheat (Triticum aestivum) belonging to the thaumatin family
Authors: Fierens Ellen , Rombouts Sigrid , Gebruers Kurt , Goesaert Hans , Brijs Kristof , Beaugrand Johnny , Volckaert Guido , Van Campenhout Steven , Proost Paul , Courtin Christophe M. , Delcour Jan A.
Published: April 2007

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) contains a previously unknown type of xylanase (EC 3.2.1.8) inhibitor, which is described in the present paper for the first time. Based on its >60% similarity to TLPs (thaumatin-like proteins) and the fact that it contains the Prosite PS00316 thaumatin family signature, it is referred to as TLXI (thaumatin-like xylanase inhibitor). TLXI is a basic (pI≥9.3 in isoelectric focusing) protein with a molecular mass of approx. 18–kDa (determined by SDS/PAGE) and it occurs in wheat with varying extents of glycosylation. The TLXI gene sequence encodes a 26-amino-acid signal sequence followed by a 151-amino-acid mature protein with a calculated molecular mass of 15.6–kDa and pI of 8.38. The mature TLXI protein was expressed successfully in Pichia pastoris, resulting in a 21–kDa (determined by SDS/PAGE) recombinant protein (rTLXI). Polyclonal antibodies raised against TLXI purified from wheat react with epitopes of rTLXI as well as with those of thaumatin, demonstrating high structural similarity between these three proteins. TLXI has a unique inhibition specificity. It is a non-competitive inhibitor of a number of glycoside hydrolase family 11 xylanases, but it is inactive towards glycoside hydrolase family 10 xylanases. Progress curves show that TLXI is a slow tight-binding inhibitor, with a Ki of approx. 60–nM. Except for zeamatin, an α-amylase/trypsin inhibitor from maize (Zea mays), no other enzyme inhibitor is currently known among the TLPs. TLXI thus represents a novel type of inhibitor within this group of proteins.
Ferryl haem protonation gates peroxidatic reactivity in globins
Authors: Silaghi-Dumitrescu Radu , Reeder Brandon J. , Nicholls Peter , Cooper Chris E. , Wilson Michael T.
Published: April 2007

Ferryl (Fe(IV)=O) species are involved in key enzymatic processes with direct biomedical relevance; among others, the uncontrolled reactivities of ferryl Mb (myoglobin) and Hb (haemoglobin) have been reported to be central to the pathology of rhabdomyolysis and subarachnoid haemorrhage. Rapid-scan stopped-flow methods have been used to monitor the spectra of the ferryl species in Mb and Hb as a function of pH. The ferryl forms of both proteins display an optical transition with pK∼4.7, and this is assigned to protonation of the ferryl species itself. We also demonstrate for the first time a direct correlation between Hb/Mb ferryl reactivity and ferryl protonation status, simultaneously informing on chemical mechanism and toxicity and with broader biochemical implications.
Regulation of adiponectin and leptin secretion and expression by insulin through a PI3K-PDE3B dependent mechanism in rat primary adipocytes
Authors: Cong Li , Chen Ke , Li Ji , Gao Ping , Li Qiang , Mi Shuhua , Wu Xin , Zhao Allan Z.
Published: April 2007

Adiponectin is intimately involved in the regulation of insulin sensitivity, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and cardiovascular functions. The circulating concentration of adiponectin is decreased in obesity and Type 2 diabetes. The present study attempts to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the regulation of adiponectin secretion and expression in rat primary adipocytes. The β-agonist, isoprenaline, decreased adiponectin secretion and expression in a dose-dependent manner in primary adipocytes. Importantly, such an inhibitory effect could be blocked by insulin. The opposing effects of isoprenaline and insulin could be explained by differential regulation of intracellular cAMP levels, since cAMP analogues suppressed adiponectin secretion and expression in a fashion similar to isoprenaline, and insulin blocked the inhibitory effects of the cAMP analogue hydrolysable by PDE (phosphodiesterase). A specific PDE3 inhibitor, milrinone, and PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-kinase) inhibitors abolished the effects of insulin on adiponectin secretion and expression. In the same studies, leptin secretion and expression displayed a similar pattern of regulation to adiponectin. We conclude that insulin and β-agonists act directly at the adipocytes in opposing fashions to regulate the production of adiponectin and leptin, and that a PI3K-PDE3B-cAMP pathway mediates the effects of insulin to restore β-agonist/cAMP-suppressed secretion and expression of these two adipokines.
Adrenaline is a critical mediator of acute exercise-induced AMP-activated protein kinase activation in adipocytes
Authors: Koh Ho-Jin , Hirshman Michael F. , He Huamei , Li Yangfeng , Manabe Yasuko , Balschi James A. , Goodyear Laurie J.
Published: April 2007

Exercise increases AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) activity in human and rat adipocytes, but the underlying molecular mechanisms and functional consequences of this activation are not known. Since adrenaline (epinephrine) concentrations increase with exercise, in the present study we hypothesized that adrenaline activates AMPK in adipocytes. We show that a single bout of exercise increases AMPKα1 and α2 activities and ACC (acetyl-CoA carboxylase) Ser79 phosphorylation in rat adipocytes. Similarly to exercise, adrenaline treatment in vivo increased AMPK activities and ACC phosphorylation. Pre-treatment of rats with the β-blocker propranolol fully blocked exercise-induced AMPK activation. Increased AMPK activity with exercise and adrenaline treatment in vivo was accompanied by an increased AMP/ATP ratio. Adrenaline incubation of isolated adipocytes also increased the AMP/ATP ratio and AMPK activities, an effect blocked by propranolol. Adrenaline incubation increased lipolysis in isolated adipocytes, and Compound C, an AMPK inhibitor, attenuated this effect. Finally, a potential role for AMPK in the decreased adiposity associated with chronic exercise was suggested by marked increases in AMPKα1 and α2 activities in adipocytes from rats trained for 6 weeks. In conclusion, both acute and chronic exercise are significant regulators of AMPK activity in rat adipocytes. Our findings suggest that adrenaline plays a critical role in exercise-stimulated AMPKα1 and α2 activities in adipocytes, and that AMPK can function in the regulation of lipolysis.
Platinum/titanium bilayer deposited on polymer film as efficient counter electrodes for plastic dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Ikegami M. , Miyoshi K. , Miyasaka T. , Teshima K. , Wei T. C. , Wan C. C. , Wang Y. Y.
Published: April 2007

A surface-rich platinum/titanium bilayer was deposited on poly(ethylene naphthalate) film by vacuum sputtering as counterelectrode for plastic dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Compared to the electrodes made of pure Pt layer, this electrode maintained similar electrochemical catalytic effect at relative low Pt usage. Current-voltage characteristics of the plastic DSSC at this stage stand at 0.69V on VOC, 9.97mA∕cm2 on ISC, 0.69 on fill factor, and 4.31% cell efficiency under AM1.5, 100mW∕cm2 illumination.
Rubrene thin-film transistors with crystalline and amorphous channels
Authors: Park Se-W. , Hwang Jung Min , Choi Jeong-M. , Hwang D. K. , Oh M. S. , Kim Jae Hoon , Im Seongil
Published: April 2007

The authors report on the fabrication of rubrene organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs) with crystalline and amorphous channels, which were achieved by patterning a rubrene thin film deposited under a specific condition. The deposited film was mostly covered by amorphous rubrene matrix with smooth surface except many crystalline rubrene disks embedded with rough surface. When the channel of OTFT covers some portion of crystalline disks, the OTFT displayed a typical field effect behavior while it showed little drain current with the channel covered with amorphous background. Typical field mobility obtained from OTFT with crystalline disks was 1.23×10−4cm2∕Vs with an on/off current ratio of ∼103.
Comparing irrigated biodynamic and conventionally managed dairy farms. 2. Milk production and composition and animal health
Authors: Burkitt L. L. , Wales W. J. , McDonald J. W. , Small D. R. , Jenkin M. L.
Published: April 2007

Ten paired irrigated dairy farms under biodynamic (BD) and conventional (CV) management were compared over a 3-year period (1991–93). The paired farms were located in the irrigation districts of northern Victoria and southern New South Wales and were matched for soil type, cattle breed and farm area. The BD farms practised BD principles for an average of 16 years before the study. The effects of farm management on milk yields and composition and animal health were examined by annually surveying farm managers regarding disease incidence and chemical treatment of animals, and by measuring milk yield and composition and faecal egg counts over the experimental period. The two hypotheses tested were that (1) milk volume and milk solids per cow would be lower under BD management, and (2) the incidence of internal parasitic infection and disease would be lower under CV management. Milk production and milk components produced, both on a per hectare and per cow basis, were 24–36% higher (P < 0.01) under CV management, due to significantly higher pasture intakes (P < 0.001). Although the incidence of parasitic infection was similar for mature cows, CV farms consistently used a greater number of chemical treatments (P < 0.05). Although BD heifer calves <8 months in age had significantly (P < 0.05) higher faecal egg counts, the results highlight the risk of reduced growth rates in calves due to high rates of parasite infection, under both management systems. Somatic cell counts were higher (P < 0.05) under BD management, with this being consistent with the use of significantly less chemical treatments under this management system. The implications of these findings for both CV and BD management for milk production and animal health are discussed.
The role of alkane coordination in C–H bond cleavage at a Pt(II) center
Authors: Chen George S. , Labinger Jay A. , Bercaw John E.
Published: April 2007

The rates of C

H bond activation for various alkanes by [(N–N)Pt(Me)(TFE

d
3

)]
+
(N

N = Ar

N

C(Me)

C(Me)

N

Ar; Ar = 3,5-di-
tert
-butylphenyl; TFE-

d
3

= CF
3
CD
2
OD) were studied. Both linear and cyclic alkanes give the corresponding alkene-hydride cation [(N–N)Pt(H)(alkene)]
+
via (
i
) rate determining alkane coordination to form a C

H σ complex, (
ii
) oxidative cleavage of the coordinated C

H bond to give a platinum(IV) alkyl-methyl-hydride intermediate, (
iii
) reductive coupling to generate a methane σ complex, (
iv
) dissociation of methane, and (
v
) β-H elimination to form the observed product. Second-order rate constants for cycloalkane activation (C
n
H
2n
), are proportional to the size of the ring (
k
∼ n). For cyclohexane, the deuterium kinetic isotope effect (
k
H
/
k
D
) of 1.28 (5) is consistent with the proposed rate determining alkane coordination to form a C

H σ complex. Statistical scrambling of the five hydrogens of the Pt-methyl and the coordinated methylene unit, via rapid, reversible steps
ii
and
iii
, and interchange of geminal C

H bonds of the methane and cyclohexane C

H σ adducts, is observed before loss of methane.
X chromosome cDNA microarray screening identifies a functional PLP2 promoter polymorphism enriched in patients with X-linked mental retardation
Authors: Zhang Lilei , Jie Chunfa , Obie Cassandra , Abidi Fatima , Schwartz Charles E. , Stevenson Roger E. , Valle David , Wang Tao
Published: April 2007

X-linked Mental Retardation (XLMR) occurs in 1 in 600 males and is highly genetically heterogeneous. We used a novel human X chromosome cDNA microarray (XCA) to survey the expression profile of X-linked genes in lymphoblasts of XLMR males. Genes with altered expression verified by Northern blot and/or quantitative PCR were considered candidates. To validate this approach, we documented the expected changes of expression in samples from a patient with a known X chromosome microdeletion and from patients with multiple copies of the X chromosome. We used our XCA to survey lymphoblast RNA samples from 43 unrelated XLMR males and found 15 genes with significant (≥1.5-fold) reduction in expression in at least one proband. Of these, subsequent analysis confirmed altered expression in 12. We followed up one, PLP2, at Xp11.23, which exhibits approximately fourfold decreased expression in two patients. Sequencing analysis in both patients revealed a promoter variant, −113C>A, that alters the core-binding site of the transcription factor ELK1. We showed that PLP2-(−113C>A) is sufficient to cause reduced expression using a luciferase reporter system and is enriched in a cohort of males with probable XLMR (14 of 239, 5.85%) as compared to normal males (9 of 577, 1.56%) (χ2 = 11.07, P < 0.001). PLP2 is expressed abundantly in the pyramidal cells of hippocampus and granular cells of the cerebellum in the brain. We conclude that our XCA screening is an efficient strategy to identify genes that show significant changes in transcript abundance as candidate genes for XLMR.
Distinct mechanisms for trans-mediated mobilization of cellular RNAs by the LINE-1 reverse transcriptase
Authors: Garcia-Perez José L. , Doucet Aurélien J. , Bucheton Alain , Moran John V. , Gilbert Nicolas
Published: April 2007

Long Interspersed Element-1 (LINE-1 or L1) sequences comprise ∼17% of human DNA and ongoing L1 retrotransposition continues to impact genome evolution. The L1-encoded proteins also can mobilize other cellular RNAs (e.g., Alu retrotransposons, SVA retrotransposons, and U6 snRNAs), which comprise ∼13% of human DNA. Here, we demonstrate that the trans-mediated mobilization of non-L1 RNAs can occur by either template choice or template-switching mechanisms. Remarkably, these mechanisms are not mutually exclusive, as both processes can operate sequentially on the same RNA template. Finally, we provide evidence that efficient U6 snRNA retrotransposition requires both ORF1p and ORF2p, providing indirect evidence for the action of ORF1p in U6 snRNA retrotransposition. Thus, we propose that the LINE-1-encoded reverse transcriptase can mediate the retrotransposition of non-L1 RNAs by distinct mechanisms.
Replication-Independent Long-Distance Trafficking by Viral RNAs in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Gopinath Kodetham , Kao C. Cheng
Published: April 2007

Viruses with separately encapsidated genomes could have their genomes introduced into different leaves of a plant, thus necessitating long-distance trafficking of the viral RNAs for successful infection. To examine this possibility, individual or combinations of genome segments from the tripartite Brome mosaic virus (BMV) were transiently expressed in leaves of Nicotiana benthamiana plants using engineered Agrobacterium tumefaciens. BMV RNA3 was found to traffic from the initial site of expression to other leaves of the plant, as detected by RNA gel blot analyses and also by the expression of an endoplasmic reticulum–targeted green fluorescent protein. When RNA3 trafficked into leaves containing the BMV replication enzymes, RNA replication, transcription, and virion production were observed. RNA3 trafficking occurred even when it did not encode the movement or capsid proteins. However, coexpression of the movement protein increased the trafficking of BMV RNAs. BMV RNA1 and RNA2 could also traffic throughout the plant, but less efficiently than RNA3. All three BMV RNAs trafficked bidirectionally to sink leaves near the apical meristem as well as to the source leaves at the bottom of the stem, suggesting that trafficking used the phloem. These results demonstrate that BMV RNAs can use a replication-independent mechanism to traffic in N. benthamiana.
Style used in electronic mail
Authors: Mallon Rebecca , Oppenheim Charles
Published: April 2007

Begins by reviewing relevant literature to identify some of the features that are said to appear exclusively in e‐mails. Also highlights the main issues in the debate between those who embrace the new style of writing generated by e‐mail, and those who feel it is detrimental to communication. A total of 300 examples of e‐mails were obtained from a wide range of donors. Features counted included emoticons, acronyms and creative spelling. The lengths of texts and of sentences within them were amongst other calculations made. The data was grouped according to purpose: social, business personal and business impersonal. Users of e‐mail appear to be generally unconcerned with formalities. Although the sample of e‐mail texts was lucid, writers often dispense with traditions when opening their e‐mail, and their closings are informal. Social e‐mails involved the most creative sort of communication. Argues that the increased informality and lack of consistency of e‐mail texts is because e‐mail is a new medium where no clear guidelines exist. A standard for e‐mail communication might usefully be established, but such a standard should remain flexible.
Influence of ground handling on turn round time of new large aircraft
Authors: Horstmeier Theo , de Haan Floris
Published: April 2007

This study focuses on handling times of turn round cycles and on the adjustments of airports and processes in order to get ready for the A380. Turn round time (TRT) is defined as the time spent between arrival and departure at a handling facility or gate. First, analyses were done on current aircraft handling processes and whether these could be used for the A380. The study then focuses on alternative handling methods for the A380, and recommendations are made.
Workholding with fusible alloys
Authors: Morgan Glyn
Published: April 2007

Some components are too fragile, too awkwardly shaped or too highly finished for workholding by conventional clamping. One alternative to the specially made fixture – always slow and expensive to produce – is to use a bismuth‐based low‐melting‐point alloy as the work‐holding medium. Alloys specialist Mining and Chemical Products says that with melting points as low as 47°C and the unique property of expanding on solidification, fusible alloys can often provide a quick and cost‐efficient means of turning difficult work‐pieces into something much easier to hold for machining and handling. The low melting temperatures eliminate risks of heat damage to work‐pieces, while the non‐shrinking characteristic ensures extremely solid support even during the most arduous machining operations. According to MCP, bismuth alloys are also highly economic to use. They can be melted down and used again repeatedly. This is not true of other work‐holding media. Moreover, since many of them contract on solidification they cannot provide the firm and all‐embracing support that is almost always needed.
The quality of public sector food‐poisoning surveillance in England and Wales, with specific reference to salmonella food poisoning
Authors: North Richard A.E. , Duguid Jim P. , Sheard Michael A.
Published: April 2007

Describes a study to measure the quality of service provided by food‐poisoning surveillance agencies in England and Wales in terms of the requirements of a representative consumer ‐ the egg producing industry ‐ adopting “egg associated” outbreak investigation reports as the reference output. Defines and makes use of four primary performance indicators: accessibility of information; completeness of evidence supplied in food‐poisoning outbreak investigation reports as to the sources of infection in “egg‐associated” outbreaks; timeliness of information published; and utility of information and advice aimed at preventing or controlling food poisoning. Finds that quality expectations in each parameter measured are not met. Examines reasons why surveillance agencies have not delivered the quality demanded. Makes use of detailed case studies to illustrate inadequacies of current practice. Attributes failure to deliver “accessibility” to a lack of recognition on the status or nature of “consumers”, combined with a self‐maintenance motivation of the part of the surveillance agencies. Finds that failures to deliver “completeness” and “utility” may result from the same defects which give rise to the lack of “accessibility” in that, failing to recognize the consumers of a public service for what they are, the agencies feel no need to provide them with the data they require. The research indicates that self‐maintenance by scientific epidemiologists may introduce biases which when combined with a politically inspired need to transfer responsibility for food‐poisoning outbreaks, skew the conduct of investigations and their conclusions. Contends that this is compounded by serious and multiple inadequacies in the conduct of investigations, arising at least in part from the lack of training and relative inexperience of investigators, the whole conditioned by interdisciplinary rivalry between the professional groups staffing the different agencies. Finds that in addition failures to exploit or develop epidemiological technologies has affected the ability of investigators to resolve the uncertainties identified. Makes recommendations directed at improving the performance of the surveillance agencies which, if adopted will substantially enhance food poisoning control efforts.
The hybrid manager
Authors: Homes Gary
Published: April 2007

Considers the many demands facing managers in modern organizations, particularly following the effects of downsizing and flattened organizational structures. Managers have to be concerned with, variously, product and/or service quality, financial planning and accountability, organizational change, risk and project management, efficient use of resources (especially human resources), teamwork and leadership, stress and counselling. This article identifies the important areas within each concern. It recognises that it would be impossible to cover all areas at once, so discusses strategies to ensure that the relevant parts of each role a manager has can be deployed at the appropriate time.
Citation counts and the Research Assessment Exercise V
Authors: Norris Michael , Oppenheim Charles
Published: April 2007

A citation study of the 692 staff that makes up unit of assessment 58 (archaeology), in the 2001 UK Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) was undertaken. Unlike earlier studies, which were obliged to make assumptions on who and what had been submitted for assessment, these were, for the first time available from the RAE Web site. This study, therefore, used the specific submission details of authors and their publications. Using the Spearman rank‐order correlation coefficient, all results showed high statistically significant correlation between the RAE result and citation counts. The results were significant at 0.01 per cent. The findings confirm earlier studies. Given the comparative cost and ease of citation analysis, it is recommended that, correctly applied, it should be the initial tool of assessment for the RAE. Panel members would then exercise their judgement and skill to confirm final rankings.
The internet and lawyers in Ghana: some initial qualitative perspectives
Authors: Hinson Robert , Atuguba Raymond , Ofori Dan , Fobih Julius
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To contribute to the internet use literature with particular respect to lawyers. This current study seeks to investigate qualitatively, the impact of the internet on the work of lawyers in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

Following several other empirical studies in the general information systems arena, a qualitative design was adopted for this study. A second motivation for adoption of this design was the fact that this research was exploratory in nature and it was the opinion of the researchers that this case study will provide rich insights into the formulations of research propositions for a larger study on internet use and legal practice in Ghana. Interviews were conducted with lawyers who had been called to the bar for before 2003 (we needed to be sure that these lawyers had been practicing for at least two years). Lawyers employed in law chambers, private sector institutions, international organizations, law consultancies, public sector institutions and the Faculty of Law of the University of Ghana were contacted as potential respondents for this qualitative study. The first five lawyers in each category who accepted to do the interviews were used as respondents for the study. In all 25 lawyers were interviewed and their views on internet use in respect of the legal profession in Ghana formed the basis of the empirical discussions in this paper.

Findings

Seventy‐eight per cent of the lawyers interviewed agree that the internet improves their productivity. Eighty‐eight per cent of respondents indicated that the internet is useful as a communication tool, whilst 76 per cent of the respondents considered the internet to be very important for getting information. In respect of generating business contacts, it seems the internet (online technologies) is just as important as brick – and – mortar strategies for attracting and retaining clients.

Research limitations/implications

Study has proved invaluable in hypothesis formulation for a larger study on internet use amongst Ghanaian lawyers in 2006. Ultimately, it could give indications for the conduct of e‐business adoption studies amongst lawyers in Ghana.

Originality/value

One of the few studies that focuses on internet adoption by lawyers in a developing country context.
RoMEO studies 6: rights metadata for open archiving
Authors: Gadd Elizabeth , Oppenheim Charles , Probets Steve
Published: April 2007

This is the final study in a series of six emanating from the UK JISC‐funded RoMEO Project (rights metadata for open‐archiving), which investigated the intellectual property rights issues relating to academic author self‐archiving of research papers. It reports the results of a survey of 542 academic authors, showing the level of protection required for their open access research papers. It then describes the selection of an appropriate means of expressing those rights through metadata and the resulting choice of Creative Commons licences. Finally, it outlines proposals for communicating rights metadata via the Open Archives Initiative’s Protocol for Metadata Harvesting (OAI‐PMH).