bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inactivating mutation of the pro‐apoptotic gene BID in gastric cancer
Authors: Lee Jong Heun , Soung Young Hwa , Lee Jong Woo , Park Won Sang , Kim Su Young , Cho Yong Gu , Kim Chang Jae , Seo Si Hyung , Kim Hong Sug , Nam Suk Woo , Yoo Nam Jin , Lee Sug Hyung , Lee Jung Young
Published: April 2004

There is evidence that deregulation of apoptosis is mechanistically involved in cancer development and somatic mutations of apoptosis‐related genes have been reported in human cancers. BID, a pro‐apoptotic member of the Bcl‐2 family, interconnects the extrinsic apoptosis pathway initiated by death receptors to the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. To explore the possibility that genetic alterations of BID might be involved in the development of human cancers, this study analysed the entire coding region and all splice sites in the human BID gene in 67 advanced gastric carcinomas. Overall, four BID mutations (6.0%) were detected that consisted of one frameshift and three missense mutations. The tumour‐derived BID mutants were expressed in 293T cells and it was found that, compared with wild‐type BID, the frequency of apoptosis was significantly reduced in cells expressing the gene containing the frameshift mutation. Furthermore, expression of the inactivating frameshift mutant interfered with cell death by overexpression of death receptors, indicating that this mutant inhibits the extrinsic apoptosis pathway in a dominant‐negative fashion. Also, the frameshift mutation rendered cancer cells resistant to apoptosis induced by the anti‐cancer drug 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU). This is the first report of BID gene mutation in human malignancy. The data suggest that such mutations occur rarely in gastric cancers and that only a small fraction of BID mutations may lead to the loss of its apoptotic function. Copyright © 2004 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Natural history and long‐term outcome of cardiac rhabdomyomas detected prenatally
Authors: Fesslova Vlasta , Villa Laura , Rizzuti Tommaso , Mastrangelo Massimo , Mosca Fabio
Published: March 2004

Objectives

To analyse the data of fetal cases with rhabdomyomatosis, the growth of masses in utero, and the relative outcome.

Material and Methods

Thirteen cases of cardiac/pericardial tumours with characteristics suggesting rhabdomyomatosis were found in our centre on fetal echocardiography, five before 24 wg (group A) and eight (group B) at 25 to 36 wg. Four patients terminated the pregnancy, nine continued the pregnancy and were followed‐up until delivery and after birth (median postnatal follow‐up of 4.2 years, range 18 months–16 years).

Results

In six/nine cases that continued the pregnancy (66.7%), the growth of smaller tumor masses was proportional with gestational age until 30 to 32 wg and was stable after that. In three cases, larger masses grew disproportionally and other small masses were revealed, causing a partial obstruction of outflow tracts. After birth, no case required surgery and no serious rhythm problems occurred. Cardiac masses regressed at least partially in all cases. Tuberous sclerosis was diagnosed in 9/11 cases (81.1%) investigated by magnetic resonance imaging in utero or postnatally. One case also had bilateral polycystic kidneys.

Conclusions

Multiple and larger noduli progressed disproportionally in utero, until 30 to 36 wg. No relevant cardiac problems occurred after birth and the masses regressed in all cases. The high frequency of association with tuberous sclerosis is confirmed in our series. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for a rapid first‐trimester prenatal diagnosis
Authors: Goumy Carole , Bonnet‐Dupeyron Marie‐Noëlle , Cherasse Yoan , Laurichesse Hélène , Jaffray Jean‐Yves , Lacroute Gisèle , Geneix Aimé , Lemery Didier , Vago Philippe
Published: March 2004

Objectives

Early diagnosis of unbalanced chromosomal abnormalities can be crucial in minimizing the trauma caused by an elective abortion. Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) can be performed from 9 weeks of gestation. However, two major problems are encountered in fetal karyotyping using cultured cells from chorionic villi: the relatively slow growth of these cells in culture, which delays the diagnosis, and the occurrence of maternal cell contamination (MCC). With FISH, a result can be obtained within 24 h, and, as no cell culturing is involved, the problem of MCC is minimized.

Methods

Thirty‐two women undergoing CVS between 9 and 12 weeks of gestation were offered FISH analysis in addition to the standard chromosome analysis.

Results

FISH was informative in all of the cases tested. Eleven aneuploidies were detected in cases of hygroma or abnormal nuchal translucency and two out of four fetuses from parental translocation were unbalanced. The decision to perform early termination of these chromosomally abnormal pregnancies was based on FISH results and ultrasound abnormalities, without waiting for karyotype results.

Conclusion

The present study confirms that the association of FISH and CVS allows a rapid and early prenatal diagnosis, and emphasizes that this association is of great benefit in cases of known parental balanced translocation or when hygroma is detected by ultrasonography. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hemimegalencephaly misdiagnosed as a congenital brain tumor by fetal cerebral ultrasonography
Authors: Nishimaki Shigeru , Endo Masaya , Seki Kazuo , Yokota Shumpei
Published: March 2004

Objective

To describe a case of hemimegalencephaly misdiagnosed prenatally.

Case Report

We presented a neonate with hemimegalencephaly, who was thought to have a congenital brain tumor by fetal cerebral ultrasonography. Postnatal MRI findings showed hemimegalencephaly characterized by mild enlargement of the affected hemisphere with a predominantly abnormal signal in the frontal lobe. The appearance of an echogenic round‐shaped mass may have resulted from predominant hypermyelination and/or dysplastic neural/glial tissue in the frontal white matter.

Conclusion

In prenatal diagnosis with fetal cerebral ultrasonography, it is difficult to distinguish between congenital brain tumor and hemimegalencephaly in which enlargement of the hemisphere is mild and the affected area of the brain is localized or predominantly in part of a cerebral hemisphere. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Familial occurrence of isolated nonseptated nuchal cystic hygromata in midtrimester of pregnancy
Authors: Rotmensch Sigi , Celentano Claudio , Sadan Oscar , Liberati Marco , Lev Dorit , Glezerman Marek
Published: March 2004

Objective

Nonseptated cystic hygromata of the fetal neck in midtrimester of pregnancy have been associated with chromosomal and structural malformations. Consequently, fetal karyotyping is frequently offered. We describe 18 families in which 18 pairs of siblings were affected by transient nonseptated cystic hygromata in utero.

Methods

Over a seven‐year period, 18 families came to our attention, with a recurrent diagnosis of fetal nonseptated cystic hygromata in two subsequent pregnancies. Detailed anatomic surveys by transvaginal ultrasound were performed between 14 to 16 weeks' gestation on the basis of self‐referral. Sonographic markers for fetal aneuploidy were specifically looked for. Nonseptated cystic hygroma was diagnosed when unilateral or bilateral cystic dilations in the anterolateral aspect of the fetal neck were present, as described by Bronshtein et al. (1989). All patients underwent amniocentesis, fetal echocardiography, and transabdominal follow‐up ultrasound scan at 22 to 24 weeks' gestation.

Results

Thirty‐six sibling fetuses with isolated nonseptated hygromata (unilateral n = 5; bilateral n = 31) were identified. Amniocentesis revealed normal karyotypes in all 36 fetuses, including 20 males and 16 females. Fetal echocardiograms and neonatal pediatric examinations were normal. Sonographic resolution of the cystic hygromata was noted in all cases at the 22 to 24 weeks' follow‐up scan. One pregnancy, producing a female newborn, was conceived by a remarried mother. All others were reportedly conceived by the same partners. Probability calculations suggest that if our findings were explained by chance alone, a population base of 367 000 pregnancies would have to be scanned in order to find 18 pairs of siblings with nonseptated cystic hygromata.

Conclusion

The familial occurrence and identical natural history of the cystic lesions in utero suggest the presence of an inheritable developmental syndrome affecting the lymphatic system in utero, but without long‐term sequelae. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Applying decision analysis to facilitate informed decision making about prenatal diagnosis for Down syndrome: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Bekker Hilary L. , Hewison Jenny , Thornton Jim G.
Published: March 2004

Objective

To evaluate decision analysis as a technique to facilitate women's decision‐making about prenatal diagnosis for Down syndrome using measures of effective decision‐making.

Design

Randomised controlled trial in a UK hospital's prenatal diagnosis clinic.

Intervention

Routine versus routine consultation structured by decision analysis.

Participants

117/132 women receiving a screen‐positive maternal serum screening result participated (58 routine, 59 decision analysis).

Methods

Consultations were audio tape–recorded, transcribed and coded; questionnaires were completed after the consultation and one month later after receipt of a diagnostic test and/or the 19‐week scan result.

Main measures

Test decision, subjective expected utilities, knowledge, informed decision‐making, risk perception, decisional conflict, anxiety, perceived usefulness and directiveness of consultation information.

Results

48/59 in the decision‐aided group and 47/58 in the routine group underwent prenatal diagnosis. Informed decision‐making was higher, perceived risk more realistic and decisional conflict over time lower in the decision analysis group. Decision analysis had no impact on knowledge or SEU scores, and was no more or no less directive, useful or anxiety provoking than the routine care. Consultations were six minutes longer.

Conclusions

Decision analysis consultations enable women to make more informed prenatal diagnosis decisions. Professionals will need training to use this technique effectively. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Benzodiazepines utilization and self‐medication as correlates of stress in the population of Serbia
Authors: Divac Nevena , Jašović Miroslava , Djukić Ljiljana , Vujnović Melita , Babić Dragan , Bajčetić Milica , Samardžić Ranka
Published: April 2004

Background

High consumption of benzodiazepines (BDZ) occurs in populations exposed to stress. In the last decade of the 20th century, when the population of Serbia experienced increasing economic hardships due to the civil war in former Yugoslavia, UN sanctions and air raids in 1999, diazepam became the most frequently prescribed drug. This period was also characterized by the free marketing of all drugs, which made them available without prescription.

Objective

To investigate the consumption and the pattern of use of BDZ in the population of Belgrade and Serbia in the period of 1990–2001.

Materials and Methods

Data on benzodiazapines prescribing and on wholesale in general population of Belgrade and Serbia were collected. In a cross‐sectional study of drug prescribing in general practice data were obtained from 1800 patient records in the primary health care centers in Serbia. Statistical analysis was performed by using standard non‐parametric tests.

Results

Annual rates of BDZ prescribing in Belgrade from 1990 to 1999 were rather uniform (approx. 25 DDD/1000 inhabitants/day), with slight tendency to decrease. In Serbia as a whole, there were significant differences in the annual prescribing rates over the period 1998–2000. The wholesale of BDZ in Serbia significantly increased between 1991 and 2001, with the peak of 133 DDD/1000 inhabitants/day in 1999. The wholesale of BDZ was significantly greater that the rates of prescribing in corresponding years. Over the 10 year period, the numbers of visits to GPs and psychiatrists and the number of neurotic diagnoses were significantly reduced. The use of BDZ in psychiatric hospital increased significantly in 1999 as compared to 1998, although the number of admissions and the occupancy of hospital beds were reduced. In primary health care, diazepam was the most frequently prescribed drug predominantly for non‐psychiatric diagnoses.

Conclusions

It is concluded that in the last decade, the utilization of BDZ was increased in the population of Belgrade and Serbia, indicating a clear trend to self‐medication, particularly in the period of acute war crisis. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Humour styles, personality, and well‐being among Lebanese university students
Authors: Kazarian Shahe S. , Martin Rod A.
Published: March 2004

This research examined the structure and correlates of the Humor Styles Questionnaire (HSQ) in Lebanese university students. Four humour factors were found, as in the original Canadian samples: Affiliative, Self‐Enhancing, Aggressive, and Self‐Defeating humour. Scale reliabilities were generally acceptable, and inter‐correlations among the scales were low. Lebanese participants scored lower than Canadians on Affiliative and Self‐Enhancing humour and lower than Belgians on Affiliative and Aggressive humour. As in Canadian and Belgian samples, males reported significantly more use of Aggressive and Self‐Defeating humour than did females. Humour styles correlated differentially, and generally as predicted, with horizontal and vertical individualism and collectivism, attachment styles, perceived health, and psychological well‐being. Overall, the findings support the cross‐cultural stability of the HSQ as well as the differential relationship of these humour styles with culture‐related personality traits and psychological well‐being. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Associations between emotions: correspondence across different types of data and componential basis
Authors: Kuppens Peter , Van Mechelen Iven , Smits Dirk J. M. , De Boeck Paul
Published: March 2004

Two issues regarding associations between negative emotions are addressed: (i) whether different types of data imply similar associations and (ii) whether these associations can be accounted for by the overlap between emotion components. In study 1, issue (i) was examined using individual differences covariation, situational covariation, and judged emotion similarity data. Results showed that the associations implied by the different data types were highly similar. Regarding issue (ii), we argue theoretically that component overlap may account for the obtained correspondence. Study 2 empirically demonstrated that the different types of association were strongly related to overlap in appraisals and action tendencies. Similarity judgments, however, seemed to be primarily based on emotion co‐occurrence, and were only to a smaller degree directly related to component overlap. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adult attachment dimensions and recollections of childhood family context: associations with dispositional optimism and pessimism
Authors: Heinonen Kati , Räikkönen Katri , Keltikangas‐Järvinen Liisa , Strandberg Timo
Published: March 2004

The present study tested the theoretically inferred but not yet empirically tested association between dispositional optimism–pessimism and attachment security among 423 Finnish women and men. A second‐order latent variable representing a generalized representation of attachment insecurity in close relationships that included two latent constructs, the one representing romantic adult attachment dimensions and the other representing recollections of attachment‐related childhood family relationship, was associated with greater pessimism; the adult attachment dimension of high anxiety had unique and additional explanatory power, not accounted for by the generalized representation of attachment‐related insecurity. The model explained 48% of the variance in pessimism. The results clearly emphasize that additional studies are needed to clarify the role of interpersonal processes in dispositional optimism–pessimism. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combining social axioms with values in predicting social behaviours
Authors: Bond Michael Harris , Leung Kwok , Au Al , Tong Kwok‐Kit , Chemonges‐Nielson Zoë
Published: March 2004

Recently, Leung et al. (2002) have identified a pan‐cultural set of five dimensions tapping beliefs about the world in which each individual functions. These general axioms may be conceptualized as individual assessments of the social context constraining one's behavioural choices. As such, we hypothesize that these beliefs about the world may be combined with measures of motivation to predict an individual's actions. To test this model, the present research examined the usefulness of these social axioms as predictors of behavioural tendencies in conjunction with four comprehensive dimensions of values (Schwartz, 1992). Hierarchical regression analyses showed that social axioms added moderate predictive power over and above that provided by values to vocational choices, methods of conflict resolution, and coping styles. Specifically, reward for application was related to preference for conventional jobs and accommodation in conflict resolution; religiosity was related to accommodation and to competition in conflict resolution; social cynicism was related negatively to collaboration and to compromise in conflict resolution, and positively to wishful thinking in coping; fate control was related positively to wishful thinking and distancing in coping; and social complexity was related to compromise and to collaboration in conflict resolution, and to problem‐solving as a coping strategy. It thus seems as if measures of respondents' beliefs about the external, social world supplement measures of their internal motivations to achieve various goals. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Situational and dispositional coping: an examination of their relation to personality, cognitive appraisals, and psychological distress
Authors: Bouchard Geneviève , Guillemette Annie , Landry‐Léger Nicole
Published: March 2004

Reliable data on the relationships between situational and dispositional coping strategies are sparse. In order to address this gap in the literature, this study examined the determinants and adaptational outcomes of both types of coping. Two hundred and thirty‐three students completed, along with measures of situational and dispositional coping, measures of personality, cognitive appraisals, and psychological distress, the latter variable being evaluated concurrently and prospectively (10 weeks). Results showed that personality shared as much variance with situational as with dispositional coping, but the patterns of relationships were rather different. In addition, cognitive appraisals were found to add significant incremental validity in predicting situational coping beyond trait coping, but primary appraisals were redundant with personality traits, in particular neuroticism. Finally, in spite of the significant amount of variance shared between the two types of coping, they both accounted for individual differences in concomitant and prospective psychological distress, and the relation between dispositional coping and distress was partially mediated by situational coping. The implications of these findings for understanding the relationships between the two types of coping strategy are discussed. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of retail fresh meat packagings covered with stretch films of plasticized PVC and non‐PVC alternatives
Authors: Petersen Jens Højslev , Togeskov Peter , Hallas Jessie , Olsen Mette Brandt , Jørgensen Bodil , Jakobsen Marianne
Published: March 2004

The characteristics and performance of several non‐PVC stretch films were compared to those of plasticized PVC. Initially the main polymer components of the film were identified by infrared spectrometry and differential scanning calorimetry. The differences between films in mechanical properties, such as puncture resistance and tensile strength, varied about a factor of two, while the differences in elongation at break were considerably higher. Plasticized PVC showed properties somewhere in the middle. The water vapour transmission was highest for PVC, while its permeability to oxygen was the lowest. The potential for overall migration was assessed by substitute testing, using 95% ethanol and isooctane as test media, and the migration from PVC was found to be the highest. However, after use of the appropriate reduction factor of four, as allowed for fresh meat, the PVC film also proved to conform to legislation. The potential for specific migration was investigated by solvent extraction followed by gas chromatography. Twenty‐four components were identified, of which 11 could be compared to relevant migration limits based on evaluations of the EU Scientific Committee for Food. The release of solvents was estimated by direct thermal desorption at 100°C. Four films of different composition were used in a storage experiment with fresh beef. The meat quality was followed by measurements of colour, microbiological quality (total colony forming units and lactic acid bacteria) and lipid oxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) through a prolonged shelf‐life test. No differences in meat quality during normal shelf‐life were seen as a function of the film used. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A simplified life cycle assessment of re‐usable and single‐use bulk transit packaging
Authors: Lee S. G. , Xu X.
Published: March 2004

A streamlined (simplified) life cycle assessment of a conventional wooden pallet and an all‐weather, washable, re‐usable and fully recyclable plastic bulk transit packaging system used to transport empty yoghurt pottles, has been conducted using surrogate/proxy data from the Environmental Priorities Strategy (EPS) 2000 Default Method. This paper accounts for the life cycle inventory for each material used in the two transit packaging systems and their associated fabrication processes. The life cycle assessment was simplified by ignoring common factors such as the common nylon strap of both packaging systems, the common in‐house transportation, and the manufacture and maintenance of capital equipment. The system boundaries and assumptions made are also discussed. The functional unit adopted was the Environmental Load Units (ELU) of the EPS 2000 Default Method. The grand overall ELU for the wooden pallet and plastic packaging system are computed by considering the weight of the material, the volume of inventory and the distance travelled. The ELU of the wooden pallet was 18.455, while that for the plastic packaging was 4.574 at a 96.5% level of certainty. In the case of the wooden pallet, truck transport, the corrugated cardboard boxes and the LDPE liner and shrinkwrap impacted the environment most, while for the plastic packaging system truck transport and the LDPE liner were significant. The plastic packaging has a lower environmental impact than the wooden pallet for various reasons. It is lighter in weight, has more re‐usable parts and can transport more yoghurt pottles per trip. It has a long service life and is virtually fully recyclable. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Life cycle environmental performance and improvement of a yogurt product delivery system
Authors: Keoleian Gregory A. , Phipps Alan W. , Dritz Tad , Brachfeld Dov
Published: March 2004

A life cycle assessment was conducted to evaluate the environmental performance of the yogurt product delivery system used by Stonyfield Farm. A life cycle model was developed which included material production, manufacturing and disposition for primary and secondary packaging, as well as the related transportation links between these stages and filling, retail and the point of consumption. Product delivery systems (PDS) that utilized 4, 6, 8 and 32 oz polypropylene (PP) cups and 2 oz linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) tubes were analysed. Ten strategies for improving the environmental performance of these systems were proposed and their impacts on the total life cycle burden were analysed. The life cycle energy consumption for the 2, 4, 6, 8 and 32 oz containers was 4050, 4670, 5230, 4390 and 3620 MJ/1000 lb yogurt delivered to market, respectively. Material production of the primary packaging accounted for 58% of the life cycle energy, while Distribution 3 (yogurt delivery to distributors/retailers) alone accounted for one‐third of the life cycle total energy. The life cycle solid waste profile showed that as the container size decreased, the solid waste burden increased, from 27.3 kg (32 oz) to 42.8 kg (6 oz) per 1000 lb yogurt delivered to market. This relationship was even more pronounced for the 4 oz (47.5 kg) and 2 oz (56.2 kg) product delivery systems. The greatest potential improvements in the environmental performance of the PDS are achievable through redesigning the primary packaging and using alternative manufacturing techniques for the yogurt cups. Shifting from injection moulding to thermoforming of 32 oz container reduces the life cycle energy and solid waste by 18.6% and 19.5%, respectively, primarily due to light‐weighting. Elimination of lids for 6 oz and 8 oz containers provided similar benefits. Consumers purchasing yogurt in 32 oz instead of 6 oz containers can save 14.5% of the life cycle energy and decrease solid waste by 27.2%. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Connection between generalized lattice model of multicomponent systems and Ginzburg–Landau theory
Authors: Zakharov A. Yu. , Zakharov M. A. , Loginova O. V.
Published: March 2004

The basic principles of generalized lattice model of multicomponent condensed systems are formulated. Short‐range aspects of interatomic interactions are taken into account by means of the geometric constraints method. Long‐range aspects of the interactions taken into account in mean field approximation. The expression for Helmholtz free energy is obtained. Integral equations system for the equilibrium distributions of components is derived. The asymptotic properties of its solutions is investigated. Moments expansion of interatomic interactions and localization of integral terms in free energy is obtained. A Ginzburg–Landau‐like functional theory of free energy is derived. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2004
Digital adventures in a Pacific Island Paradise
Authors: Murgatroyd Peter
Published: March 2004

In a previous life I was a yuppie. Double breasted suit, briefcase and a state-of-the-art-library with views across the harbour from the top floor of a glass tower in downtown Auckland. I worked hard and played even harder. My time was charged in ten minute units and I can still remember the middle initial of every partner in the firm. So how on earth did I end up trading my well polished lace-ups for flip flops and the beloved kiwi Sauvignon Blanc for a dirty brown liquid called kava?
Law Library Careers: Improving the Transition to Legal Information Work
Authors: Brown Ruth , Stephens Dr Derek
Published: March 2004

This article describes research which suggests that much more could be done to prepare Library and Information Science (LIS) graduates for a career in legal information, both in terms of greater career information availability and in greater preparation before working with legal information, such as knowledge of legal materials and ways of working. Greater promotion of this interesting and challenging information sector would ensure that LIS graduates are fully aware of law library work as a viable career path and are clear about what the work entails. Implications for CILIP, BIALL, Library Schools and university careers services are discussed.
The Law Society Library: a Personal View by the (still fairly new) Librarian
Authors: Holland Chris
Published: March 2004

Since I moved on from Herbert Smith to take up the post of Librarian and Head of Information Services at the Law Society in April 2001, colleagues have often asked me about the differences in working environment. Having had time to settle in (yes, it can take that long!) I think it is time to write a few words about this new experience and about the ser-vices which we offer to solicitors and to law firm librarians.
Law Librarianship in Bermuda; or Even If You're On an Island, No Man Is an Island
Authors: Skiffington Karen
Published: March 2004

So there I am, late summer of 1986, in Toronto with a still-damp Master's Degree in Information and Library Science from the State University of New York at Buffalo, and I'm looking for a job. Not just any job. Nope, a job in Bermuda. Why? Well, it happens to be home and I've got this five year plan that says do five years in Canada with the new husband and get finished with education for both of us and find a job in Bermuda. So it's time to do just that. I've had quite enough, thank you, of the Frozen North, slipping and sliding on the roads and the sidewalks and winter is fast approaching yet again. Now where's that job?
Should I Spy with my Legal Eye – or is there a Better Way? Lawful Competitive Intelligence for Legal Professionals
Authors: Weiss Arthur
Published: March 2004

The need to monitor competitor activity and anticipate competitive actions is a standard activity for most businesses. In order to succeed and grow, firms need to understand what rival firms are doing, and furthermore what is happening in the overall business environment. However unlike a manufacturing company, or a high-street retailer, or indeed many other businesses, obtaining intelligence on competitors is not so easy for professional service firms.
Competitive Intelligence – Law and Ethics
Authors: Gordon-Till Jonathan
Published: March 2004

Elsewhere in this journal Arthur Weiss's review of competitive intelligence for legal professionals is careful to point out that CI is a lawful and ethical process. It is not, as some senior managers still believe, a cloak-and-dagger shady activity carried out by unscrupulous managers in the FMCG (fast moving consumer goods), hi-tech or pharmaceutical sectors.
Editorial
Authors: Miskin Christine
Published: March 2004

This issue of LIM is particularly special as it marks our move to Cambridge University Press, after many years with Sweet & Maxwell. The Editorial Board is delighted with the change and we are looking forward to a long and happy working relationship with the team at CUP. Your Editor's life should be made much simpler, as all the production processes will be managed at CUP, so there will be no more chasing up of recalcitrant printers and typesetters, nor of trying to (largely unsuccessfully) solicit advertising, as we will have our very own advertising and marketing person at CUP and all production processes are carried on within the company.
A Life in the Week of an Information Specialist in a Global Consulting Firm
Authors: Cleaver Angela
Published: March 2004

Watson Wyatt is a global consulting firm focused on human capital and financial management. We specialise in four areas: employee benefits, human capital strategies, technology solutions and insurance and financial services. Supporting these is Business Services, of which the Information Centre is part. We are based in the European headquarters in Reigate, Surrey. The firm itself has more than 6,300 associates in 86 countries around the world, and in the UK we have been included in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work for the past two years. We also celebrate our 125th anniversary this year.
A Brief History of Time Travel
Authors: Freeman Simon , Callum Euan
Published: March 2004

It is a remarkable coincidence that we have been asked to write this article now as it is exactly ten years ago this month (November, at time of writing) that the first tentative steps that led to the development of Perspective occurred.
Pensions in the UK – Sources and Resources
Authors: Gordon-Till Jonathan
Published: March 2004

For many the subject of pensions is a tedious – perhaps boring – diversion, a matter which is rarely in good focus, and surely one in which little could be said by way of information resources. In fact the world of pensions in the UK is overwhelmed with legislation, burdened with regulation, and hardly short of information resources.
An Overview of Current Library Support for Readers with Special Needs
Authors: Read Katherine
Published: March 2004

The Social Model of Disability sees “disabled people disabled by physical, organisational and/or attitudinal/behavioural barriers in society. For instance it is not an inability to climb stairs that excludes wheelchair users from accessing the different floors of a library but the fact that a lift or ramp is not provided in the first place” (Jones, 2002)
New Anti-Discrimination Legislation
Authors: Gilroy-Scott Clare , Dalglish James
Published: March 2004

From December 2003, for the first time, people looking for work and those in jobs or training will have a right to complain about discriminatory behaviour based on their sexual orientation and religion or religious belief. Similar protection against discrimination based on age should also some into force in 2006. It seems clear that these regulations represent a significant step forward in addressing unfair discrimination in the UK and in achieving a certain level of uniformity and coherence across discrimination legislation.
Knowledge without Frontiers. Reskilling without Tears
Authors: Johnson Alison
Published: March 2004

Selecting my title to span two conference topics, this year's and last, I admit could have been a little tricky, but my inspiration in the end came from music and hopefully you too will see, as we progress through this presentation, just how much our profession can learn from the musicians.
The Challenge of Providing a Library and Information Service to Distance Learning Students
Authors: Donaldson Angela
Published: March 2004

In this article I'll be covering the following:

[bull ] some widely held perceptions of distance learning

[bull ] how distance learning takes place within law at The Nottingham Trent University (NTU)

[bull ] the UK Libraries Plus national support scheme for distance learning students in the UK

[bull ] how I provide support for my distance learners

[bull ] the practical difficulties that distance learners face

[bull ] perceptions or misconceptions? – do my original perceptions still hold true?

[bull ] some ideas for the future

At this point, I should point out that I'm not promoting The Nottingham Trent University as a model of best practice, but just outlining our experiences. If anyone has any more sensible approaches or solutions to the issues I'll be covering then please let me know.
The Secret Diary of an Information Manager Aged 29 and 3/4
Authors: Fordham Vicky
Published: March 2004

In five years at Pinsents I have seen three different library management systems. Our current system, OLIB7, has been in situ since September 2002 and for the most part is working well. But why have we had three in such a short space of time? Why did we choose OLIB7? And is implementing a new system really all that bad?
The Application of Practical Legal Research in the Solicitor's Office
Authors: Saunders Sarah
Published: March 2004

Does the Legal Practice Course (“LPC”) form a successful link between the academic study of law and legal practice? Are students passing the LPC properly prepared for their job as a trainee solicitor?
Law libraries and the Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001
Authors: Tearle Barbara
Published: March 2004

The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) was extended to higher education institutions by the Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001 (SENDA). The legislation applies to libraries, although other teaching and educational activities receive more coverage in the Act and in the explanatory literature that has developed to assist implementation.
Adolf Sprudzs: In Memoriam
Authors: Wright Judith
Published: March 2004

Adolf Sprudzs had a long and distinguished career as a foreign and international law librarian at the University of Chicago Law School, where he developed one of the premier foreign and international law collections in the United States. He was a leader among a generation of foreign and international law librarians who emigrated to the United States after World War II and were responsible for the collections and expertise that now exist in this country.
Die Auswirkung von selbstadressierten Fragen auf die Entwurfsqualität beim Konstruieren
Authors: Reimann Ralph , Dörner Dietrich
Published: March 2004

Zusammenfassung. Ausgehend von a) der in Hackers (1999) Ansatz beschriebenen Bedeutung des Sprechens während des Konstruierens beim Maschinenbau und b) den von der Empirie belegten positiven Einflüssen von Selbsterklärungen und Selbstbefragungen als handlungsbegleitende Verbalisierungskomponenten während kognitiver Anforderungen untersucht der Beitrag den Effekt der Selbstbefragung beim entwerfenden Problemlösen (Konstruieren). 17 Versuchspersonen bearbeiteten unter der Bedingung des lauten Denkens kleinere Konstruktionsaufgaben. Die Bearbeitung wurde videografiert. Die Auswertung der verfügbaren Sprachprotokolle erfolgte hinsichtlich des Auftretens von selbstadressierten Fragen (Selbstbefragung). Dabei zeigte sich zwischen Selbstfragetätigkeit und Entwurfsgüte ein Zusammenhang. Es lassen sich verschiedene Selbstfragetypen differenzieren, denen unterschiedliche Bedeutungen im Konstruktionsprozess zuzukommen scheinen. Diskutiert werden Zusammenhänge zwischen Entwurfsgüte, Selbstbefragungsaktivität und Vorwissen.
Elterliche Fürsorge - ein vergessenes soziales Grundmotiv
Authors: Leder Matthias
Published: March 2004

Zusammenfassung. Trotz ihrer elementaren Bedeutung im Leben von Mensch und Tier wird die Motivation zu elterlicher Fürsorge in der psychologischen Theoriebildung kaum behandelt. In vorliegender Arbeit werden zunächst aus einer evolutionspsychologischen Perspektive fünf funktionelle Anforderungen an die Fürsorgemotivation formuliert, um auf dieser Grundlage ein systemtheoretisches Modell dieses Motivs zu entwickeln und drei Anwendungsbeispiele abzuleiten. Die Diskussion stellt das Modell einem verwandten Vorschlag von Schmid Mast und Bischof (1999) gegenüber, benennt die Grenzen des Modells, diskutiert die Beziehungen zwischen elterlicher Fürsorge, altruistischer Motivation und Emphatie und erörtert schließlich, welche Aspekte der menschlichen Elternliebe über die basale Fürsorgemotivation hinausgehen.
Die Bedeutung der Persönlichkeit für die Gründungsintention, die Gründungsrealisation und den Unternehmenserfolg
Authors: Korunka Christian , Frank Hermann , Lueger Manfred
Published: March 2004

Zusammenfassung. Zur Frage des Stellenwerts der Persönlichkeit im Zusammenhang mit Unternehmensgründung und Unternehmenserfolg liegen zahlreiche Studien mit oft widersprüchlichen Ergebnissen vor. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird durch einen Vergleich von vier konfigurationstheoretisch basierten und konzeptionell vergleichbaren Studien die Rolle von Persönlichkeitseigenschaften für die Gründungsintention, die Gründungsrealisation und den Unternehmenserfolg differenziert betrachtet. Es kann gezeigt werden, dass Persönlichkeitsmerkmale von Gründer/innen für die Entstehung einer Gründungsneigung eine wesentliche Bedeutung besitzen, die jedoch im Zuge der Gründungsrealisierung und in Bezug auf den Unternehmenserfolg deutlich abnimmt. Aus den Ergebnissen kann abgeleitet werden, dass insbesondere für die Entwicklung von Gründungsintentionen persönlichkeitsfördernde Maßnahmen im Bereich der schulischen und universitären Ausbildung gesetzt werden können. Ein möglicher langfristiger Unternehmenserfolg kann aus der Beurteilung von Persönlichkeitseigenschaften nicht vorhergesagt werden.
Personenbezeichnungsmodelle auf dem Prüfstand
Authors: Rothmund Jutta , Scheele Brigitte
Published: March 2004

Zusammenfassung. In zwei experimentellen Studien wurden anhand von längeren Texten die Thesen der Feministischen Linguistik überprüft, dass (1) das “generische“ Maskulinum zu einer “Benachteiligung“ von Frauen im Denken der SprachbenutzerInnen führt, was (2) durch sprachliche “Heilungs“varianten aufgehoben werden kann. In Studie 1 resultierte in einem sexuskonkretisierenden, Assoziationen an Männer auslösenden Kontext (Budapester Bäder) bei 220 Vpn sowohl für das “generische“ Maskulinum als auch für “Heilungs“varianten ein geschlechterasymmetrisches Denken (mit Übergewicht der Männer-Referenz). Beim Wechsel auf den Kontext “Erlebnisbäder in Deutschland“ in Studie 2 (N = 194) bestand diese Wirkung des durchgängig verwendeten “generischen“ Maskulinums fort, während dessen partielle und vollständige Ersetzung durch die “Heilungs“varianten ‘Paarform‘ sowie deren Kombination mit dem Nomen ‘Person‘ geschlechtersymmetrische Assoziationen zur Folge hatte; das Versalien-I führte zu einem asymmetrischen Denken mit Übergewicht der Frauenreferenz. Vor dem Lesen der Stimulustexte erhobene Kognitionen über die Geschlechterverteilung im Gegenstandsbereich hatten keinen Einfluss auf das geschlechterbezogenene Assoziieren während der Rezeption.
Enhancement of oceanic uptake of anthropogenic CO2 by macronutrient fertilization
Authors: Matear Richard J. , Elliott Bronwyn
Published: March 2004

A global three‐dimensional ocean carbon cycle model was used to investigate the use of macronutrient fertilization of the ocean to increase the oceanic uptake of CO2. To simulate macronutrient fertilization, phosphate was added to the 18°–50°S surface ocean. The carbon sequestration efficiency of fertilization was determined from the ratio of increased ocean uptake of anthropogenic CO2 to the rate of phosphate addition to the upper ocean (converted to carbon units using the C/P ratio of organic matter, 106). The model simulation produced a maximum efficiency of 78%. However, the simulations demonstrated that changes in calcium carbon production with macronutrient fertilization could significantly reduce carbon sequestration efficiency. When calcium carbonate production increases at the same rate as export production, the carbon sequestration efficiency is reduced by 25% when compared to a simulation where calcium carbonate production is held constant. The study also discusses several other potential process that could impact the efficiency phosphate fertilization to sequester carbon in the ocean and the potential consequences of large‐scale macronutrient fertilization of the ocean.
Electromagnetic field over the spherical Earth coated with N‐layered dielectric
Authors: Li Kai , Park Seong‐Ook , Zhang Hong‐Qi
Published: March 2004

The electromagnetic field in the air generated by a dipole source over an electrically spherical Earth coated with n‐layered dielectric is determined for continuous‐wave excitation. The region of interest consists of the spherical dielectric Earth, coated with the dielectric layer composing a succession of n spherically bounded layer under the air. In this paper, the surface impedance at any point in the n‐layered dielectric for the electromagnetic field of electric type is presented, and the formulas are derived for the electromagnetic field in the air of a vertical electric dipole. Similarly, the surface admittance for the electromagnetic field of magnetic type is presented, and the formulas are derived for the electromagnetic field of a vertical magnetic dipole. Based on the above results, using reciprocity theorem, the formulas are derived readily for the six components of the electromagnetic field generated by a horizontal electric dipole.
Ag, Ta, Ru, and Ir enrichment in surface soil: Evidence for land pollution of heavy metal from atmospheric deposition
Authors: Xing Guangxi , Zhu Jianguo , Xiong Zhengqin , Yamasaki Shin‐ichi
Published: March 2004

No observation has so far been reported that heavy metal elements from atmospheric deposition were accumulated widely in the surface soil layers. In this research, 28 soil profiles from different climate zones and agro‐ecosystems in China were studied, and obvious enrichment of Ag, Ta, Ru, and Ir in the surface soils was discovered. It indicates that pollution of heavy metals emitted into the atmosphere from industrial activities is no longer limited to soils in the vicinity of power, metallurgic, metalworking, and machine‐making industries, and they may settle down extensively on land besides cities and industrial regions.
Biological fractionation of silicon isotopes in Southern Ocean surface waters
Authors: Varela Diana E. , Pride Carol J. , Brzezinski Mark A.
Published: March 2004

The fractionation of silicon isotopes by diatoms during silicification (i.e., opaline cell wall formation) provides a new tool for paleoceanographic studies of the silicon cycle. Here we examine the natural variations of the 30Si:28Si ratio in silicic acid (Si(OH)4) and biogenic silica (bSiO2) in surface waters of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) along 170°W. The results provide direct evidence of biologically mediated fractionation of silicon isotopes, with an enrichment factor (ɛ) of between −1.1 and −1.9‰, depending on the model employed. Comparison of the mass flux of bSiO2 captured in sediment traps deployed in the study area with the silicon isotopic composition of that material establishes a direct linkage between diatom dynamics in surface waters and the isotopic signature of exported particles. We calculated Si(OH)4:NO3− utilization ratios from variations in silicon and nitrogen isotopic ratios in surface waters and sediment traps that agree well with direct observations of 4:1 in this region. This work supports the use of variations in silicon isotopes in sedimentary opal as a proxy for relative Si(OH)4 utilization in surface waters.
Constructing a Geodynamic A Priori Seismic (GAPS) velocity model of upper mantle heterogeneity
Authors: Rhodes Mark , Davies J. Huw
Published: March 2004

Seismic studies of the deep mantle suffer from the fact that the probing seismic waves must traverse the highly heterogeneous and poorly resolved shallow structure. One potential way forward is to develop high‐resolution models of the crust and upper mantle using other information. Here we describe the construction of a geodynamic a priori model of some aspects of upper mantle seismic velocity heterogeneity. It is based on an equal area tomographic grid and it has been produced at two scales, a 1° × 1° resolution at the equator, (i.e., each cell has an approximate dimension of 100 km by 100 km), and a 5° × 5° resolution at the equator. Both have a constant layer thickness of 100 km. Currently, the model accommodates the subducting lithosphere and global variation in continental crustal thickness and age of oceanic lithosphere. The shape of subducting oceanic lithosphere was derived from profiles through seismicity. The shape was combined with estimates of plate velocities and age of subducting lithosphere using an analytic solution of the thermal field to define the slab thermal anomaly. The temperature perturbation was converted to a slowness (1/velocity) perturbation. For oceanic lithosphere, a plate‐cooling model was used to convert lithosphere age to slowness perturbation via a temperature perturbation. The variation in the thickness of continental crust, around a global average, formed the third element of the slowness perturbation model. This model has already been applied in a high‐resolution mantle tomographic study of lower mantle heterogeneity.
Bed topography and surges in ice streams
Authors: Schoof Christian
Published: March 2004

Extensive bed topography at the scale of the ice thickness occurs frequently in the form of drumlins. By analogy with hard‐bed sliding, ice flow over this type of topography leads to the generation of drag on the ice, particularly when ice flow is rapid. A crucial difference with classical Nye‐Kamb sliding is that the upper, free surface of the ice has a significant effect on the sliding process through the formation of a standing wave. Using a theoretical model, we demonstrate that the presence of this wave introduces a non‐linearity into the sliding motion which can lead to multiple sliding velocities for the same large‐scale ice stream geometry, and that switches between these velocities can cause surging behavior.