bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of AsIII/AsV Ratio in Alluvial Sediments of the Bengal Basin Using X-ray Absorption Near-edge Structure
Authors: Itai Takaaki , Masuda Harue , Takahashi Yoshio , Mitamura Muneki , Kusakabe Minoru
Published: July 2006

In this study, we applied X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectroscopy (XANES) to the determination of the AsIII/AsV ratios in sediments in the Bengal Basin, where groundwater contamination of As causes serious health hazard. The depth profile of oxidation state of As in sediment shows that AsIII is dominant species in the depth where As concentration of groundwater is high. This result is consistent with the general understanding about mobility of inorganic As species in various field observations.
Locked Energy of Axial to Equatorial Transformation Monitored by Exciplex and Excimer Fluorescence
Authors: Kadirvel Manikandan , Bichenkova Elena V , D’Emanuele Antony , Freeman Sally
Published: July 2006

2-O-tert-Butyldimethylsilyl-4,6-bispyrenoyl-myo-inositol-1,3,5-orthoformate (1) and 2-O-tert-butyldimethylsilyl-4-[(4-dimethylamino)benzoyl]-6-pyrenoyl-myo-inositol-1,3,5-orthoacetate (2) adopt unstable chair conformations with five substituents axial, in which the aromatic esters participate in π-stacking, and give excimer and exciplex fluorescence, respectively. Upon addition of acid, the orthoformate/orthoacetate lock is cleaved, which allows the inositol ring to switch to the more stable penta-equatorial chair conformation, with loss of exciplex/excimer fluorescence.
Fabrication of the Silica Rod by Inner Sol–Gel Transcription
Authors: Jung Jong Hwa , Cho Eun Jin , Kang Jeung Ku
Published: July 2006

The rod-like silica structure was obtained by inner sol–gel polymerization of BTEB using the organic tube 1 as a template, and its gas-absorption property was characterized. The organic silica rod-like material absorbed 0.68 wt % of hydrogen at 78 K.
The First Synthesis of Thermally Stable Acylamino-substituted 1,2-Dioxetanes
Authors: Matsumoto Masakatsu , Sano Yusuke , Watanabe Nobuko , Ijuin Hisako K
Published: July 2006

Singlet oxygen added smoothly to N-acyl-5-aryl-4-tert-butyl-3,3-dimethyl-2,3-dihydropyrroles 1 to give the corresponding bicyclic dioxetanes fused with N-acylpyrrolidine 2, which possessed marked thermal stability.
The Absence of Top3 Reveals an Interaction Between the Sgs1 and Pif1 DNA Helicases inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Wagner Marisa , Price Gavrielle , Rothstein Rodney
Published: July 2006

RecQ DNA helicases and Topo III topoisomerases have conserved genetic, physical, and functional interactions that are consistent with a model in which RecQ creates a recombination-dependent substrate that is resolved by Topo III. The phenotype associated with Topo III loss suggests that accumulation of a RecQ-created substrate is detrimental. In yeast, mutation of the TOP3 gene encoding Topo III causes pleiotropic defects that are suppressed by deletion of the RecQ homolog Sgs1. We searched for gene dosage suppressors of top3 and identified Pif1, a DNA helicase that acts with polarity opposite to that of Sgs1. Pif1 overexpression suppresses multiple top3 defects, but exacerbates sgs1 and sgs1 top3 defects. Furthermore, Pif1 helicase activity is essential in the absence of Top3 in an Sgs1-dependent manner. These data clearly demonstrate that Pif1 helicase activity is required to counteract Sgs1 helicase activity that has become uncoupled from Top3. Pif1 genetic interactions with the Sgs1–Top3 pathway are dependent upon homologous recombination. We also find that Pif1 is recruited to DNA repair foci and that the frequency of these foci is significantly increased in top3 mutants. Our results support a model in which Pif1 has a direct role in the prevention or repair of Sgs1-induced DNA damage that accumulates in top3 mutants.
Effects of trans-acting Genetic Modifiers on Meiotic Recombination Across the a1–sh2 Interval of Maize
Authors: Yandeau-Nelson Marna D , Nikolau Basil J , Schnable Patrick S
Published: July 2006

Meiotic recombination rates are potentially affected by cis- and trans-acting factors, i.e., genotype-specific modifiers that do or do not reside in the recombining interval, respectively. Effects of trans modifiers on recombination across the ∼140-kb maize a1–sh2 interval of chromosome 3L were studied in the absence of polymorphic cis factors in three genetically diverse backgrounds into which a sequence-identical a1–sh2 interval had been introgressed. Genetic distances across a1–sh2 varied twofold among genetic backgrounds. Although the existence of regions exhibiting high and low rates of recombination (hot and cold spots, respectively) was conserved across backgrounds, the absolute rates of recombination in these sequence-identical regions differed significantly among backgrounds. In addition, an intergenic hot spot had a higher rate of recombination as compared to the genome average rate of recombination in one background and not in another. Recombination rates across two genetic intervals on chromosome 1 did not exhibit the same relationships among backgrounds as was observed in a1–sh2. This suggests that at least some detected trans-acting factors do not equally affect recombination across the genome. This study establishes that trans modifier(s) polymorphic among genetic backgrounds can increase and decrease recombination in both genic and intergenic regions over relatively small genetic and physical intervals.
Four Novel Suppressors of gic1 gic2 and Their Roles in Cytokinesis and Polarized Cell Growth in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Gandhi Meghal , Goode Bruce L , Chan Clarence S M
Published: July 2006

Gic1 and Gic2 are two Cdc42/Rac interactive binding (CRIB) domain-containing effectors of Cdc42-GTPase that promote polarized cell growth in S. cerevisiae. To identify novel genes that functionally interact with Gic1 and Gic2, we screened for high-copy suppressors of a gic1 gic2 temperature-sensitive strain. We identified two pairs of structurally related genes, SKG6-TOS2 and VHS2-MLF3. These genes have been implicated in polarized cell growth, but their functions have not previously been characterized. We found that overproduction of Skg6 and Tos2 in wild-type cells causes aberrant localization of Cdc3 septin and actin structures as well as defective recruitment of Hof1 and impaired formation of the septum at the mother-bud neck. These data suggest a negative regulatory function for Skg6 and Tos2 in cytokinesis. Consistent with this model, deletion of SKG6 suppresses the growth defects associated with loss of HOF1, a positive regulator of cytokinesis. Our analysis of the second pair of gic1 gic2 suppressors, VHS2 and MLF3, suggests that they regulate polarization of the actin cytoskeleton and cell growth and function in a pathway distinct from and parallel to GIC1 and GIC2.
The Conserved ATPase Get3/Arr4 Modulates the Activity of Membrane-Associated Proteins in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Auld Kathryn L , Hitchcock Amy L , Doherty Hugh K , Frietze Seth , Huang Linda S , Silver Pamela A
Published: July 2006

The regulation of cellular membrane dynamics is crucial for maintaining proper cell growth and division. The Cdc48-Npl4-Ufd1 complex is required for several regulated membrane-associated processes as part of the ubiquitin–proteasome system, including ER-associated degradation and the control of lipid composition in yeast. In this study we report the results of a genetic screen in Saccharomyces cerevisiae for extragenic suppressors of a temperature-sensitive npl4 allele and the subsequent analysis of one suppressor, GET3/ARR4. The GET3 gene encodes an ATPase with homology to the regulatory component of the bacterial arsenic pump. Mutants of GET3 rescue several phenotypes of the npl4 mutant and transcription of GET3 is coregulated with the proteasome, illustrating a functional relationship between GET3 and NPL4 in the ubiquitin–proteasome system. We have further found that Get3 biochemically interacts with the trans-membrane domain proteins Get1/Mdm39 and Get2/Rmd7 and that Δget3 is able to suppress phenotypes of get1 and get2 mutants, including sporulation defects. In combination, our characterization of GET3 genetic and biochemical interactions with NPL4, GET1, and GET2 implicates Get3 in multiple membrane-dependent pathways.
Drosophila Reptin and Other TIP60 Complex Components Promote Generation of Silent Chromatin
Authors: Qi Dai , Jin Haining , Lilja Tobias , Mannervik Mattias
Published: July 2006

Histone acetyltransferase (HAT) complexes have been linked to activation of transcription. Reptin is a subunit of different chromatin-remodeling complexes, including the TIP60 HAT complex. In Drosophila, Reptin also copurifies with the Polycomb group (PcG) complex PRC1, which maintains genes in a transcriptionally silent state. We demonstrate genetic interactions between reptin mutant flies and PcG mutants, resulting in misexpression of the homeotic gene Scr. Genetic interactions are not restricted to PRC1 components, but are also observed with another PcG gene. In reptin homozygous mutant cells, a Polycomb response-element-linked reporter gene is derepressed, whereas endogenous homeotic gene expression is not. Furthermore, reptin mutants suppress position-effect variegation (PEV), a phenomenon resulting from spreading of heterochromatin. These features are shared with three other components of TIP60 complexes, namely Enhancer of Polycomb, Domino, and dMRG15. We conclude that Drosophila Reptin participates in epigenetic processes leading to a repressive chromatin state as part of the fly TIP60 HAT complex rather than through the PRC1 complex. This shows that the TIP60 complex can promote the generation of silent chromatin.
A First-Generation Metric Linkage Disequilibrium Map of Bovine Chromosome 6
Authors: Khatkar Mehar S , Collins Andrew , Cavanagh Julie A L , Hawken Rachel J , Hobbs Matthew , Zenger Kyall R , Barris Wes , McClintock Alexander E , Thomson Peter C , Nicholas Frank W , Raadsma Herman W
Published: July 2006

We constructed a metric linkage disequilibrium (LD) map of bovine chromosome 6 (BTA6) on the basis of data from 220 SNPs genotyped on 433 Australian dairy bulls. This metric LD map has distances in LD units (LDUs) that are analogous to centimorgans in linkage maps. The LD map of BTA6 has a total length of 8.9 LDUs. Within the LD map, regions of high LD (represented as blocks) and regions of low LD (steps) are observed, when plotted against the integrated map in kilobases. At the most stringent block definition, namely a set of loci with zero LDU increase over the span of these markers, BTA6 comprises 40 blocks, accounting for 41% of the chromosome. At a slightly lower stringency of block definition (a set of loci covering a maximum of 0.2 LDUs on the LD map), up to 81% of BTA6 is spanned by 46 blocks and with 13 steps that are likely to reflect recombination hot spots. The mean swept radius (the distance over which LD is likely to be useful for mapping) is 13.3 Mb, confirming extensive LD in Holstein–Friesian dairy cattle, which makes such populations ideal for whole-genome association studies.
Molecular Characterization of teflon, a Gene Required for Meiotic Autosome Segregation in Male Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Arya Gunjan H , Lodico Matthew J P , Ahmad Omar I , Amin Rohul , Tomkiel John E
Published: July 2006

Drosophila melanogaster males lack recombination and have evolved a mechanism of meiotic chromosome segregation that is independent of both the chiasmatic and achiasmatic segregation systems of females. The teflon (tef) gene is specifically required in males for proper segregation of autosomes and provides a genetic tool for understanding recombination-independent mechanisms of pairing and segregation as well as differences in sex chromosome vs. autosome segregation. Here we report on the cloning of the tef gene and the molecular characterization of tef mutations. Rescue experiments using a GAL4-driven pUAS transgene demonstrate that tef corresponds to predicted Berkeley Drosophila Genome Project (BDGP) gene CG8961 and that tef expression is required in the male germ line prior to spermatocyte stage S4. Consistent with this early prophase requirement, expression of tef was found to be independent of regulators of meiotic M phase initiation or progression. The predicted Tef protein contains three C2H2 zinc-finger motifs, one at the amino terminus and two in tandem at the carboxyl terminus. In addition to the zinc-finger motifs, a 44- to 45-bp repeat is conserved in three related Drosophila species. On the basis of these findings, we propose a role for Tef as a bridging molecule that holds autosome bivalents together via heterochromatic connections.
Melanotic Mutants in Drosophila: Pathways and Phenotypes
Authors: Minakhina Svetlana , Steward Ruth
Published: July 2006

Mutations in >30 genes that regulate different pathways and developmental processes are reported to cause a melanotic phenotype in larvae. The observed melanotic masses were generally linked to the hemocyte-mediated immune response. To investigate whether all black masses are associated with the cellular immune response, we characterized melanotic masses from mutants in 14 genes. We found that the melanotic masses can be subdivided into melanotic nodules engaging the hemocyte-mediated encapsulation and into melanizations that are not encapsulated by hemocytes. With rare exception, the encapsulation is carried out by lamellocytes. Encapsulated nodules are found in the hemocoel or in association with the lymph gland, while melanizations are located in the gut, salivary gland, and tracheae. In cactus mutants we found an additional kind of melanized mass containing various tissues. The development of these tissue agglomerates is dependent on the function of the dorsal gene. Our results show that the phenotype of each mutant not only reflects its connection to a particular genetic pathway but also points to the tissue-specific role of the individual gene.
Effect on Deep Venous Thrombosis with Flexion during Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Westrich Geoffrey H. , Winiarsky Raz , Betsy Michael , Maun Lena , Sculco Thomas P.
Published: July 2006

This study investigates the relationship between intraoperative extreme flexion and tibia-femoral dislocation during total knee arthroplasty on the prevalence of postoperative deep venous thrombosis. Knees were randomized into two groups. The control group underwent the procedure according to normal protocol, which kept the knee in extreme flexion and maintained dislocation for the duration of the exposure, whereas the variable group underwent the procedure modified to minimize the total amount of time the knee was hyperflexed and dislocated. Venograms were positive in 42% (39/92) of the control knees and 38% (30/79) of the modified group ( p = 0.6). Proximal deep venous thrombosis were found in 12% (11/92) of the control knees and in 16% (13/79) of the modified knees ( p = 0.4). No statistical difference could be detected between the two techniques in regards to the incidence of deep venous thrombosis.
Sciatic Neuropathy: Case Report and Discussion of the Literature on Postoperative Sciatic Neuropathy and Sciatic Nerve Tumors
Authors: Feinberg Joseph , Sethi Shikha
Published: July 2006

Sciatic nerve injury and dysfunction is not an uncommon cause of lower extremity symptoms in a musculoskeletal practice. We present the case of a man who presented with lower extremity weakness, pain, and cramps, and was initially diagnosed at an outside institution with bilateral S1 radiculopathies and recommended for spine surgery. He came to us for a second opinion. Electrodiagnostic testing revealed an isolated sciatic neuropathy and the patient was referred for imaging, which showed a sciatic nerve sheath tumor. Review of the literature on sciatic neuropathies shows that there can be many possible etiologies of sciatic nerve dysfunction, but that hip arthroplasty continues to be the leading risk factor. Sciatic nerve tumors are not commonly described in the literature and their definitive management remains unclear.
Endoscopic pituitary adenomectomy
Authors: Hill J , Carrie S
Published: July 2006

The authors' surgical technique for performing pituitary adenomectomy using the endoscopic transnasal approach is described.
Turbulent convection of suspended sediments due to flow reversal
Authors: Chang Yeon S. , Scotti Alberto
Published: July 2006

We investigate the ejection of sediments from the near‐bed region of a pulsating boundary layer over a flat bottom. The boundary layer flows were generated using Large Eddy Simulation (LES) while the motion of individual particles was calculated using a modified version of the Maxey and Riley equation. The suspension rate of near‐bed sediment particles sharply increases during decelerating flow phase and peaks near the time of local flow reversals. This suspension pattern of sediments was closely related to the near‐bed turbulent vortex structures which evolve during a wave cycle. During period of maximum flow rate, the horizontally aligned vortex cores retarded settling of sediment particles. As the flow decelerates, vertically organized vortices induce an upward flux of particles. Vertical velocity fluctuations are strongest at the time of flow reversal, leading to maximum sediment suspension at this time. These results are shown to be incompatible with simple eddy‐diffusivity models for sediment transport.
Mixing layer height over Munich, Germany: Variability and comparisons of different methodologies
Authors: Wiegner Matthias , Emeis Stefan , Freudenthaler Volker , Heese Birgit , Junkermann Wolfgang , Münkel Christoph , Schäfer Klaus , Seefeldner Meinhard , Vogt Siegfried
Published: July 2006

On 4 days in summer and winter the mixing layer height over the municipal area of Munich, Germany, was determined by several remote sensing instruments and in situ probes. The main motivation was to obtain information on aerosols, and therefore we decided to understand the mixing layer as that layer where most of the locally produced aerosols are concentrated. In this paper we wanted to investigate the potential of the quite different methodologies which depend on measurements of aerosol properties and those which do not. The operation of two lidars, a ceilometer, a wind‐temperature‐radar, a sodar, radiosondes, and aerosol probes onboard of a microlight aircraft allowed such a thorough intercomparison. As the instruments were located at different sites, the horizontal homogeneity of the mixing layer could also be observed. It was found that the agreement between the different methodologies is very good as long as the mixing layer height does not exceed approximately 1 km, which is the common measurement range of all instruments. In summer, however, the mixing layer can reach 2 km and more, so that the lidar turns out to be the most capable remote sensing technique. Another advantage of the lidar is the possibility to clearly derive the internal structure of the mixing layer. The latter is important in cases when simple parameterizations assume vertical homogeneity of aerosol properties within the mixing layer. On the other hand, lidars are quite expensive and require a trained operator. As a conclusion, the development of unattended working lidars including automated data evaluation should be fostered. From the limited data set it was found that the mixing layer height in Munich did not change more than approximately 100 m over a horizontal distance of around 50 km. If this finding can be confirmed by further measurements, the area of Munich is a good test bed for the validation of aerosol retrievals from satellite data with medium spatial resolution and for the validation of the numerical treatment of aerosols in mesoscale chemistry transport models.
Distribution of runup heights of the December 26, 2004 tsunami in the Indian Ocean
Authors: Choi Byung Ho , Hong Sung Jin , Pelinovsky Efim
Published: July 2006

A massive earthquake with magnitude 9.3 occurred on December 26, 2004 off the northern Sumatra generated huge tsunami waves affected many coastal countries in the Indian Ocean. A number of field surveys have been performed after this tsunami event; in particular, several surveys in the south/east coast of India, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Sri Lanka, Sumatra, Malaysia, and Thailand have been organized by the Korean Society of Coastal and Ocean Engineers from January to August 2005. Spatial distribution of the tsunami runup is used to analyze the distribution function of the wave heights on different coasts. Theoretical interpretation of this distribution is associated with random coastal bathymetry and coastline led to the log‐normal functions. Observed data also are in a very good agreement with log‐normal distribution confirming the important role of the variable ocean bathymetry in the formation of the irregular wave height distribution along the coasts.
Self‐potential tomography applied to the determination of cavities
Authors: Jardani A. , Revil A. , Dupont J. P.
Published: July 2006

A 3D tomography algorithm of self‐potential (SP) signals is applied for the first time to the localization of subsurface cavities. A specific application is made to a marl‐pit in Normandy (North‐West of France). A SP map with a total of 221 (5 m‐spaced) measurements shows a negative anomaly with an amplitude of −8 mV associated with the position of the marl pit. To explain these data, we solved the boundary‐value problem for the coupled hydro‐electric problem associated with the presence of the cavity using a finite‐element code. The numerical simulations point out the role of open conduits in electrical charge accumulation near the roof of the cavity and the resistivity contrast between the cavity and the surrounding formation. We applied successfully a SP tomography algorithm showing that the roof of the cavity was associated with a monopole charge accumulation due to the entrance of the ground water flow in a network of open cracks.
Large submarine landslides offshore Mt. Etna
Authors: Pareschi Maria Teresa , Boschi Enzo , Mazzarini Francesco , Favalli Massimiliano
Published: July 2006

High resolution seismic data, we collected in the Ionian sea, reveal large submarine landslide deposits offshore from Mt. Etna (Italy), spatially consistent with the eastern flank collapse of this volcano. A large debris‐avalanche deposit, we relate to the Valle del Bove scar, displays long offshore run‐outs (till 20 km) and a volume of a few tens of cubic kilometres (16–21 km3). Other landslide deposits are also imaged, in particular a striking unique record of the relative timing of multiple submarine large slump events.
Flooding on California's Russian River: Role of atmospheric rivers
Authors: Ralph F. Martin , Neiman Paul J. , Wick Gary A. , Gutman Seth I. , Dettinger Michael D. , Cayan Daniel R. , White Allen B.
Published: July 2006

Experimental observations collected during meteorological field studies conducted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration near the Russian River of coastal northern California are combined with SSM/I satellite observations offshore to examine the role of landfalling atmospheric rivers in the creation of flooding. While recent studies have documented the characteristics and importance of narrow regions of strong meridional water vapor transport over the eastern Pacific Ocean (recently referred to as atmospheric rivers), this study describes their impact when they strike the U.S. West Coast. A detailed case study is presented, along with an assessment of all 7 floods on the Russian River since the experimental data were first available in October 1997. In all 7 floods, atmospheric river conditions were present and caused heavy rainfall through orographic precipitation. Not only do atmospheric rivers play a crucial role in the global water budget, they can also lead to heavy coastal rainfall and flooding, and thus represent a key phenomenon linking weather and climate.
Introduction to special section on North Pacific Carbon Cycle Variability and Climate Change
Authors: Sabine Christopher L. , Gruber Nicolas
Published: July 2006

This article compares the major findings of eight synthesis papers resulting from a workshop to examine carbon cycle variability and climate change in the tropical and extratropical North Pacific Ocean. The workshop's intent was to encourage scientific exchange, synthesis activities, and the development of new ideas among scientists from different countries and backgrounds who do not regularly collaborate, but share a common interest in the Pacific. Six of the papers focus on air‐sea CO2 flux variability on timescales from years to decades. While the average North Pacific surface waters show increases in CO2 that are comparable to the increase in atmospheric CO2 over time, considerable temporal and spatial variations are observed. A recurring theme of these studies is that throughout most of the Pacific, interannual to decadal variations in CO2 fluxes are primarily controlled by variations in physical forcing with changes in the biological cycle being of secondary importance. The dominant mode of variability is confirmed to be associated with the El Niño–Southern Oscillation phenomenon, particularly in the tropical Pacific. Extratropical air‐sea CO2 flux variability is substantially smaller, primarily because dissolved inorganic carbon and temperature driven variations in the seawater pCO2 tend to compensate each other. Temporal variations in the wind fields are also important for assessing the variability in air‐sea CO2 fluxes. The two papers addressing carbon and oxygen cycle changes within the water column also found that variability in physical forcing can explain the magnitude and patterns of observed variability in apparent oxygen utilization and other tracers.
Structure, Function, Expression, Genomic Organization, and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms of Human ABCB1 (MDR1), ABCC (MRP), and ABCG2 (BCRP) Efflux Transporters
Authors: Choudhuri Supratim , Klaassen Curtis D.
Published: July 2006

The ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters constitute a large family of membrane proteins, which transport a variety of compounds through the membrane against a concentration gradient at the cost of ATP hydrolysis. Substrates of the ABC transporters include lipids, bile acids, xenobiotics, and peptides for antigen presentation. As they transport exogenous and endogenous compounds, they reduce the body load of potentially harmful substances. One by-product of such protective function is that they also eliminate various useful drugs from the body, causing drug resistance. This review is a brief summary of the structure, function, and expression of the important drug resistance–conferring members belonging to three subfamilies of the human ABC family; these are ABCB1 (MDR1/P-glycoprotein of subfamily ABCB), subfamily ABCC (MRPs), and ABCG2 (BCRP of subfamily ABCG), which are expressed in various organs. In the text, the transporter symbol that carries the subfamily name (such as ABCB1, ABCC1, etc.) is used interchangeably with the corresponding original names, such as MDR1/P-glycoprotein, MRP1, etc., respectively. Both nomenclatures are maintained in the text because both are still used in the transporter literature. This helps readers relate various names that they encounter in the literature. It now appears that P-glycoprotein, MRP1, MRP2, and BCRP can explain the phenomenon of multidrug resistance in all cell lines analyzed thus far. Also discussed are the gene structure, regulation of expression, and various polymorphisms in these genes. Because genetic polymorphism is thought to underlie interindividual differences, including their response to drugs and other xenobiotics, the importance of polymorphism in these genes is also discussed.
Consumers' expectations of food and alcohol pairing
Authors: Pettigrew Simone , Charters Steve
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Food and alcohol are symbolically and physically linked in many cultures. This article seeks to explore Australians' perceptions of the relationships between food and two of the more popular forms of alcohol – wine and beer.

Design/methodology/approach

The findings from two parallel alcohol studies are reported. One study examined the role of wine consumption in Australian culture (n=105), while the other study performed the same function in terms of beer consumption (n=115). Interviews and focus groups were used in both studies to collect data from consumers and industry representatives to identify expectations of appropriate food and alcohol pairing.

Findings

Wine was found to be strongly associated with food along three dimensions: complementarity, social meaning, and lubrication. This association occurs in the context that it is generally deemed inappropriate to consume wine without food. By comparison, a much weaker association appears to exist between food and beer. Interviewees reported regularly consuming beer in both eating and non‐eating contexts, with the nature of the occasion influencing beer consumption rather than any food that may or may not be present.

Originality/value

Consumers' expectations of the appropriate pairing of food with beer and wine are discussed in terms of their implications for those wishing to align particular food and alcohol products in the marketplace. A theoretical contribution is provided through a discussion of the ways in which different alcoholic beverages are assigned different symbolic meanings to allow them to facilitate divergent food consumption experiences.
Training customers: an organizational experience
Authors: Llopis Juan , Gasco Jose , Gonzalez Reyes
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To analyze, through a case study, the essential premises on the basis of which a training plan for the customers of any given firm can be designed, implemented and evaluated.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper starts with a review of the literature on customer service training, which is followed by a discussion on how a training plan for customers could be elaborated. After that, the case method is applied (mainly through semi‐structured interviews) to a firm that approaches this type of training in an innovative way.

Findings

Concludes that a training plan for the firm's internal staff cannot be extrapolated to customers. Describes how training plans must be modified so as to adapt them to customers.

Research limitations/implications

It will be nesessary to identify other cases and check to what extent the methodology resembles the one we have applied and how successful it is, so that a standard action protocol can be established.

Practical implications

Presents a real case of success at customer training in an industrial firm and provides a model, not only for future research, but also for the direct implementation of these techniques by other firms belonging to any industrial sector.

Originality/value

The accurate description of a training plan for customers made by an industrial firm and its treatment based on the study of a real case. The establishment of action guidelines that will pave the way for further academic research in this field as well as its clear business applicability.
Training an age‐diverse workforce
Authors: Newton Becci
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Aims to address the myths and age‐related barriers that currently deter employers from training workers of different ages.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is the culmination of four strands of research activity: qualitative interviews with a range of national experts to inform the context for the research and the key issues to be explored. The interviews also helped to identify the training channels available to employers and their workers. Review of the current policy and academic literatures. Secondary data analysis of the Labour Force Survey, 2004 and National Adult Learning Survey, 2002. Also includes LSC data from the Employer Training Pilots and Modern Apprenticeships. Case studies of five organisations which demonstrate good practice in training a mixed‐age workforce. Throughout the study, references to “older workers” mean people aged over 50.

Findings

There is a clear association between age and the amount of training offered to and received by workers. Employees aged over 55 were less likely than other workers to participate in training, or to have been offered it. Older employees were also less likely than younger or mid‐life workers to take up any opportunities for training that were made available. Furthermore, older workers were more likely only to have received on‐the‐job training.

Originality/value

Provides the evidence and practical guidance on the variety of training support channels and on age‐diverse training practices.
Enhancing professional development by writing for publication in library and information science
Authors: Joint Nicholas
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To argue that enhanced professional development and writing for publication are related activities and are mutually beneficial.

Design/methodology/approach

An opinion piece.

Findings

That by aiming for a more rigorous form of professional writing, greater insight into one's professional practice is possible.

Research limitations/implications

The examples of research scenarios sketched out in this editorial are pure suggestions which have not been carried out as real experiments. However, this would be possible and even desirable in order to prove the hypothesis outlined in the paper.

Practical implications

If these conclusions are valid, then writing for publication has a clear practical benefit for practitioners.

Originality/value

The simple examples of the workplace experiment and case study that this paper briefly sketches out could help practitioners improve the type of “practitioner research” that they undertake.
Job rotation in Nigerian university libraries
Authors: Adomi Esharenana E.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To understand the impact of job rotation on Nigerian university libraries and in libraries in general. Design/methodology/approach – L A survey of opinion in Nigerian university libraries. Professional librarians from seven university libraries were used as subjects for the study. Findings That most of the respondents have spent an appreciable period of time working in the libraries; a majority of the respondents have been rotated; most of the respondents see job rotation as opportunity to learn new skills followed by those who see it as opportunity to be acquainted with other operations/services of the library; most of the respondents adjust to the new post by studying handover notes/files of new departments but a majority of them are of the view that job rotation is not regular enough in their libraries.

Research limitations/implications

The focus of the paper is practical rather than research‐oriented.

Practical implications

Suggestions are made on how job rotation could be improved upon in libraries.

Originality/value

There are few empirical studies of job rotation in the literature – this paper increases understanding of a little studied topic.
Institutional repositories, self‐archiving and the role of the library
Authors: Joint Nicholas
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To raise some unresolved questions about the practical implementation and management of institutional repositories – in particular, the level of resource needed to support the process of self‐deposit into institutional repositories.

Design/methodology/approach

An opinion piece based on practitioner insights into their cataloguing practice and into digital preservation issues.

Findings

That metadata creation and the formulation of digital preservation policies for institutional repositories require significant resource, if they are to be carried out well. This level of resourcing may have been underestimated hitherto in the process of proselytising for institutional repositories.

Research limitations/implications

This practice‐based supposition could be tested more rigorously by proper research investigation.

Practical implications

Suggests that libraries and librarians are well placed to give input to the metadata and digital preservation activities inherent in building institutional repositories. They should be resourced to give more attention to such tasks.

Originality/value

The paper tries to make a strong case for librarian‐mediated deposit rather than pure self‐archiving as the future of building institutional repositories.
Digital preservation in the tertiary education sector: management implications
Authors: Robertson R. John
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the future of long‐term curation and preservation of digital assets with particular reference to Further Education (FE) in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

Reviews current requirements of digital preservation and the efforts underway to support them. Drawing on other recent work and the author’s experience in a recent development project it subsequently comments on these efforts in the context of FE.

Findings

Argues that the long‐term curation and preservation of digital assets produced by further education colleges should not be the responsibility of those colleges.

Research limitations/implications

Written with direct reference to the UK; how the suggested solution would be applied elsewhere remains undeveloped.

Practical implications

National memory institutions should strive to establish collaborative curatorial practices with the FE sector.

Originality/value

Suggests that the preservation of digital assets in the FE sector requires a different approach than the HE sector.
Intransivities of managerial decisions: a grounded theory case
Authors: Douglas David
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to apply grounded theory methodology to report on an empirical case which develops emergent theories on the human complexities of managerial decision‐making and the synonymous task of managing.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured research approach was applied in gathering and analysing data from all actors within a small private sector enterprise. The key objective was to discover what the owner‐manager and all employees perceived as important issues with regard to the managing of the business during a period of post‐takeover. In‐depth on‐site and off‐site interviews were carried out over an extended period.

Findings

Emergent theory exposes actors' disputed perceptions of how the business had been managed and ought to be managed, and, the judgments and decisions that had been made and consequently should be made. Revealed is a complex cognitive and behavioural web of human interactions and deep‐seated management‐employee discord that whilst threatening the actual survival of the business appears not to impede questionable practices, both by management and staff. Through the application of grounded theory methodology emergent constructs are discussed against existing knowledge that exposes new insights into management decision theory and the managing of an enterprise.

Research limitations/implications

The process of theory generation whilst grounded in a substantive inquiry has the capacity to generate further research and tentative explanations at higher levels of understanding. From the research reported, questions beyond the substantive case can develop a broader theoretical and practical agenda – for example, issues of other actors' involvement in management decision making and the intrinsic part psychological factors play in the structuring of decisions.

Practical implications

Based on the finding from an empirical study the paper reveals significant practical managerial issues in the day‐to‐day and strategic managing of an enterprise. From a researcher's perspective, the paper critically demonstrates the functionality of grounded theory in management inquiry.

Originality/value

This paper advances the theoretical and practical necessity for the enlargement of the stock of qualitatively bounded research that focuses on grounded theory applications, management practice and decision theory.
Library subject portals
Authors: Ubogu Felix N. , Kekana Arthur , Roberts Charl
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To examine and discuss the features of library portals and suggest further development of these research tools.

Design/methodology/approach

The two categories of library portals (horizontal or public, and vertical) were examined to establish the characteristics of some of the portal software available in the marketplace. The study involved carrying out a literature search and visiting demonstration sites. Some library sites that have implemented this software were subsequently examined in order to establish features of their sites, and to see how these sites have handled the information literacy/research process.

Findings

Suggests that a well‐structured subject portal should be based on the principles of the flow of scientific information, and an information literacy component should be embedded in the portal. Such a portal could assist learners to become familiar with the breadth and depth of information resources relevant to their discipline. It should also assist librarians and learning advisers to become familiar with the information literacy requirements of specific subjects and courses. In this way, libraries should achieve their objective of making the learner information‐literate with minimal effort, and thus contribute positively to student learning outcomes.

Practical implications

The paper is a useful source of information for librarians considering investing in one of the commercial software tools and for those embarking on the development of subject portals. A pilot version of the subject portal implemented at the University of the Witswatersrand is shown.

Originality/value

The novelty in this work is the intuitive subject portal that is put forward; the elements and content of the portals are suggested.
Dislike of vegetables and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Sakuta Hidenari , Suzuki Takashi , Yasuda Hiroko , Ito Teizo
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The study aims to determine whether dislike of vegetables is associated with the presence of metabolic disorders.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross‐sectional analysis of the data of middle‐aged (range 51–59 years) male personnel of the Self‐Defense Forces.

Findings

Of subjects studied, 76.4 per cent answered they liked vegetables, 19.2 per cent were intermediate between liking and dislike and 4.4 per cent disliked vegetables. The odds ratio (95 per cent CI) of vegetable dislike to like was 2.22 (1.08–4.57) for the presence of diabetes, 2.46 (1.23–4.94) for hyper‐triglyceridemia and 2.54 (1.33–4.86) for high γ‐glutamyl transferase in a logistic regression analysis adjusted for age and lifestyle factors. Vegetable dislike did not correlate with hypertension, hypercholesterol‐emia or obesity. Vegetable consumption did not correlate with diabetes.

Research limitations/implications

The results do not show a cause–result relationship. Observed findings may not be applied to age‐matched general population, or to older, younger, female or other ethnic persons.

Practical implications

Vegetable dislike may be regarded as a simple marker of metabolic status including type 2 diabetes.

Originality/value

The authors show the cross‐sectional association between dislike of vegetables and type 2 diabetes.
Diet, obesity and cancer – is there a link?
Authors: Chandler Becky
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper provides an overview on the links among diet, obesity and cancer prevention. It also highlights a study which confirms that following specific diet and health recommendations can help prevent cancer.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature searches were conducted to find the most up‐to‐date and relevant literature on diet, obesity and cancer to be included in this paper.

Findings

The World Cancer Report predicts that worldwide new cases of cancer will increase by 50 per cent by 2020 and will present a huge challenge for health and cancer support services. However, it is estimated that eating healthily, staying physically active and maintaining a healthy body weight could reduce cancer risk by 30–40 per cent. Evidence suggests that a plant‐based diet including fibre rich foods and a wide range of vitamins and minerals may offer cancer protection, while obesity and low levels of physical activity may increase cancer risk. In 1997 World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) and the American Institute of Cancer Research (AICR) produced a pioneering international report: Food Nutrition and the Prevention of Cancer: A Global Perspective. The report drew attention to several links between diet and cancer prevention, and made diet and health recommendations to guide health policy and help reduce cancer risk. Adhering to these guidelines has now been shown to predict risk of and mortality from cancer. WCRF/AICR are compiling a second report which will systematically review published research on food, nutrition (including obesity), physical activity and cancer prevention. Also included will be the new and emerging area of nutrition and lifestyle factors for cancer survivors.

Originality/value

Information is presented to give non‐experts a general, up‐to‐date overview on the links between diet, obesity and cancer prevention.
Optimisation of hydrostatic journal bearings with parameter variations based on thermodynamic effects
Authors: Solmaz E. , Öztürk F.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The results obtained from previous studies are not found to be sufficient for hydrostatic bearing design optimisation since thermodynamic effects are not considered. Therefore, this research is presented with considering parameter variations based on thermodynamic effects for more efficient optimisation of bearing parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

Single and multi‐criteria approaches were carried out to determine the hydrostatic journal bearing design parameters so that the total performance of the system is optimal.

Findings

It is seen that firstly, the results of single criteria approaches for minimum power, bearing coefficient and minimum temperature rise in circular hydrostatic axial journal bearings are not sufficient, secondly, there is a crucial need to consider multiple criteria optimisation cases and thirdly, thermodynamic effects must be taken into account for more efficient approach to compute the optimum values of bearing design parameters.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is required to develop a genetic algorithm‐based optimisation for bearing design problems considering thermodynamic effects and multiple criteria approaches to compare the results of present study.

Practical implications

Comparison of optimisation results of single and multi‐criteria approaches are given to show temperature variation effects on bearing performance.

Originality/value

Although, there are some works related to design and optimisation of hydrostatic bearings, most of them consider the single criteria optimisation and thermodynamic effects are not usually taken into account. Therefore, this research is different than others since the present approach is implemented with thermodynamic effects and also not limited to single criteria approach.