bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaction of nucleoside diphosphate kinase and catalases for stress and light responses in Neurospora crassa
Authors: Yoshida Yusuke , Ogura Yasunobu , Hasunuma Kohji
Published: May 2006

Nucleoside diphosphate kinase (NDK) is an ubiquitous enzyme with the function of a signal transducer. In Neurospora crassa, an ndk‐1

P72H
mutant carrying the point mutation Pro72His was isolated. We found that ndk‐1

P72H
showed hypersensitivity to oxidative and heat stress and a decrease in the levels of catalase (Cat)‐1 and ‐3 induced by oxidative, heat stress and illumination compared with wild type (Wt). We found, by conducting a yeast two‐hybrid assay, that Cat‐1 interacted with NDK‐1. NDK‐1 was suggested to control Cat‐1 and Cat‐3 at the post‐transcriptional level in response to heat, oxidative stress and light.
Reducing the short-term mortality of juvenile school prawns (Metapenaeus macleayi) discarded during trawling
Authors: Macbeth William G. , Broadhurst Matt K. , Paterson Brian D. , Wooden Michael E.L.
Published: May 2006

A field experiment was carried out in southeastern Australia to assess the short-term mortality and stress incurred by juvenile school prawns (Metapenaeus macleayi) discarded from an estuarine trawler. Some 35% of the prawns died up to 72 h after being caught in a trawl, exposed to air during sorting and separation from the retained catch (as per normal commercial procedures), then discarded into replicate cages. Total mortality was partitioned into that caused by trawling (about 16% of mortalities), and by subsequent sorting and grading (about 19%). Assuming that the majority of the non-penaeid bycatch is excluded from trawls (by the use of bycatch reduction devices), the latter mortalities could be almost eliminated by sorting and separating unwanted school prawns in water-filled compartments. Emersion stress was measured as concentrations of l-lactate in the haemolymph, which were elevated for at least 40 min following capture, but similar among all trawled treatments. l-lactate levels decreased within the first 24 h post-capture, then remained constant over at least the next 48 h, and were greater than baseline levels. The potential benefits associated with subtle changes to handling practices onboard estuarine trawlers are discussed.
Validation of the name Pertusaria pachythallina
Authors: Messuti María Inés
Published: May 2006

After revising the order Pertusariales in Tierra del Fuego (Messuti & Vobis 2002), Teuvo Ahti drew my attention to some nomenclatural problems concerning Pertusaria pachythallina (Räsänen) Messuti. This name was based on Pertusaria grisea var. pachythallina Räsänen. However, the new combination was invalidly published since the page of publication was not indicated (Art. 33.3, Ex 5 ICBN 2000) and the lectotypification originally performed by Lamb (in herb.) did not meet the Code requirements (Art. 7.11). The correct nomenclature and typification are indicated below.
Observations of HONO by laser‐induced fluorescence at the South Pole during ANTCI 2003
Authors: Liao W. , Case A. T. , Mastromarino J. , Tan D. , Dibb J. E.
Published: May 2006

Observations of nitrous acid (HONO) by laser‐induced fluorescence (LIF) at the South Pole taken during the Antarctic Troposphere Chemistry Investigation (ANTCI), which took place over the time period of Nov. 15, 2003 to Jan. 4, 2004, are presented here. The median observed mixing ratio of HONO 10 m above the snow was 5.8 pptv (mean value 6.3 pptv) with a maximum of 18.2 pptv on Nov 30th, Dec 1st, 3rd, 15th, 17th, 21st, 22nd, 25th, 27th and 28th. The measurement uncertainty is ±35%. The LIF HONO observations are compared to concurrent HONO observations performed by mist chamber/ion chromatography (MC/IC). The HONO levels reported by MC/IC are about 7.2 ± 2.3 times higher than those reported by LIF.
An ab initio study of the fcc and hcp structures of helium
Authors: Røeggen I.
Published: May 2006

The hexagonal close packed (hcp) and face centered cubic (fcc) structures of helium are studied by using a new ab initio computational model for large complexes comprising small subsystems. The new model is formulated within the framework of the energy incremental scheme. In the calculation of intra- and intersystem energies, model systems are introduced. To each subsystem associated is a set of partner subsystems defined by a vicinity criterion. In the independent calculations of intra- and intersystem energies, the calculations are performed on model subsystems defined by the subsystems considered and their partner subsystems. A small and a large basis set are associated with each subsystem. For partner subsystems in a model system, the small basis set is adopted. By introducing a particular decomposition scheme, the intermolecular potential is written as a sum of effective one-body potentials. The binding energy per atom in an infinite crystal of atoms is the negative value of this one-body potential. The one- body potentials for hcp and fcc structures are calculated for the following nearest neighbor distances (d0): 4.6, 5.1, 5.4, 5.435, 5.5, 5.61, and 6.1a.u. The equilibrium distance is 5.44a.u. for both structures. The equilibrium dimer distance is 5.61a.u. For the larger distances, i.e., d0>5.4a.u., the difference of the effective one-body potentials for the two structures is less than 0.2μEh. However, the hcp structure has the lowest effective one-body potential for all the distances considered. For the smallest distance the difference in the effective one-body potential is 3.9μEh. Hence, for solid helium, i.e., helium under high pressure, the hcp structure is the preferred one. The error in the calculated effective one-body potential for the distance d0=5.61a.u. is of the order of 1μEh (≈0.5%).
Nanotube-metal junctions: 2- and 3-terminal electrical transport
Authors: Ke San-Huang , Yang Weitao , Baranger Harold U.
Published: May 2006

We address the quality of electrical contact between carbon nanotubes and metallic electrodes by performing first-principles calculations for the electron transmission through ideal 2- and 3-terminal junctions, thus revealing the physical limit of tube-metal conduction. The structural model constructed involves surrounding the tube by the metal atoms of the electrode as in most experiments; we consider metallic (5,5) and n-doped semiconducting (10,0) tubes surrounded by Au or Pd. In the case of metallic tubes, the contact conductance is shown to approach the ideal 4e2∕h in the limit of large contact area. For three-terminals, the division of flux among the different transmission channels depends strongly on the metal material. A Pd electrode has nearly perfect tube-electrode transmission and therefore turns off the straight transport along the tube. Our results are in good agreement with some recent experimental reports and clarify a fundamental discrepancy between theory and experiment.
Shape-controlled growth of single-crystalline Ge nanostructures
Authors: Jin Chang-Beom , Yang Jee-Eun , Jo Moon-Ho
Published: May 2006

We report the shape-controlled growth of single-crystalline germanium nanostructures by Au catalyst-assisted chemical-vapor syntheses using GeH4 as a precursor. By independently controlling the axial- and the radial-growth kinetics near the eutectic temperature of Au and Ge, we reproducibly direct the shape of Ge nanostructures from nanowires to nanocones with various aspect ratios. Based on our observation of the shape variation we discuss a phenomenological model of the growth of Ge nanostructures that goes beyond the conventional vapor-liquid-solid growth mechanism. The precise control of the shape in semiconductor nanostructures in our study suggests the implication of various applications into electronic and optical devices.
Relationship between Bragg bandwidth and acoustic aperture of guided acoustooptic interaction
Authors: Fan Guofang , Ning Jiping , Li Enbang , Li Yuan , Han Qun , Shang Lianju , Chen Zhiqiang
Published: May 2006

In this letter, we present a detailed analysis, based on the diffraction of surface acoustic waves, of the relationship between the Bragg bandwidth and the diffraction efficiency in guided acousto-optic interactions. It has been found that the Bragg bandwidth is not always inversely proportional to the acoustic aperture (diffraction efficiency). Therefore, it is possible to simultaneously get high diffraction efficiencies and large bandwidths for a guided acousto-optic device with a single interdigital transducer under certain conditions.
Creation of trivalent transgenic watermelon resistant to virus infection
Authors: Sheng-Niao Niu , Xue-Sen Huang , Sek-Man Wong , Jia-Lin Yu , Fu-Xing Zhao , Da-Wei Li , Sheng-You Wang , Guang-Ming Zhai , Fan-Sheng Shi
Published: May 2006

A trivalent vector containing genes of Watermelon mosaic virus (WMV) coat protein (CP), and replicase genes of Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV) and Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), was constructed for transformation of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) plants, mediated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens. The integrated foreign genes were identified in the regenerated progenies by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Southern blots. The transformation efficiency was about 1.7‰. Resistance to virus infection was determined by mechanical inoculation in the greenhouse and by field trials. The transgenic watermelon lines showed different phenotypes of susceptible, resistant, immune or recovery from virus infections in the late growth stage. A relatively high level of resistance was shown by T3 plants of the line BH1-7. This result indicates the possibility of creating, by transgenic protocols, new varieties of watermelon resistant to viral infection.
Cloning of the obese gene (ob) of adipose tissue, and differences in ob gene expression with age of piglets
Authors: Yi-Zhen Wang , Xiao-Na Chu , Hai-Qing Huang , Fei-Fei Han , Jian-Xin Liu
Published: May 2006

Genomic RNA was extracted from the subcutaneous adipose tissue of piglets (Duroc×Landrace×Tai-hu) at 1, 14, 28, 42 and 56 days of age, and obese gene (ob) mRNA was amplified using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). A DNA fragment of about 504 bp was obtained and the PCR product was cloned into a pGEM-T vector. The ob gene was isolated and sequenced from the positive clones screened. Sequence analysis suggested that this fragment was a partial sequence of ob cDNA, coding 167 amino acid residues, which constituted the major part of leptin mature protein. The gene homology of the fragment obtained in this study compared to the reported ob cDNA sequence in adipocytes of pig was 99.405%, and amino acid homology was 98.94%. Based on the ob gene clone, we successfully constructed an optimal semi-quantitative RT-PCR method. Using β-actin as the internal control, we investigated the difference of ob gene expression at different ages of piglets. Results showed that ob mRNA levels increased steadily at postnatal days 1–28 (preweaning), peaked at postnatal day 28, when piglets were weaned, and decreased from day 28 to 56.
Intended and actual behavior of organic farmers in Austria after a five-year commitment period
Authors: Kirner Leopold , Vogel Stefan , Schneeberger Walter
Published: May 2006

Organic farmers throughout Austria were asked in 1999 if, once the first agri-environmental program (ÖPUL) ends, they intended to commit themselves to a further five-year period of organic farming. The study presented here addresses those farmers who expressed in the survey the intention to end their participation in organic farming under ÖPUL, or who were undecided at that time. The aim was to compare and analyze the intended behavior with actual behavior. The research was based on material from, and analyses of, the 1999 survey and the survey conducted in 2002. Additional information regarding the reasons for abandoning (or continuing) organic farming and the decision-making process itself was collected through a series of telephone interviews in 2004. The comparison revealed a connection between actual behavior and the intentions expressed in the 1999 survey. However, there were no clear differences in terms of the reasons given in 1999 for potentially discontinuing with organic farming between those farms that remained organic and those that reverted to conventional farming methods. There were differences between those reasons given in the 1999 survey for potentially leaving organic agriculture and the reasons that determined the actual decision, as cited in telephone interviews in 2004. In the 1999 survey, economic issues were the main reasons for potentially ceasing to farm organically. When it came to the actual decision, problems concerning organic guidelines and inspections were more prominent. The environmental attitudes and the social embedding of the farmers within organic agriculture played a decisive role on those enterprises that chose to continue farming organically. The analysis indicates that the presence of a successor is also a stabilizing factor for organic farming.
Prelude&Fugue, predicting local protein structure, early folding regions and structural weaknesses
Authors: Kwasigroch Jean Marc , Rooman Marianne
Published: May 2006

Summary: Prelude&Fugue are bioinformatics tools aiming at predicting the local 3D structure of a protein from its amino acid sequence in terms of seven backbone torsion angle domains, using database-derived potentials. Prelude&Fugue computes all lowest free energy conformations of a protein or protein region, ranked by increasing energy, and possibly satisfying some interresidue distance constraints specified by the user. Prelude&Fugue detects sequence regions whose predicted structure is significantly preferred relative to other conformations in the absence of tertiary interactions. These programs can be used for predicting secondary structure, tertiary structure of short peptides, flickering early folding sequences and peptides that adopt a preferred conformation in solution. They can also be used for detecting structural weaknesses, i.e. sequence regions that are not optimal with respect to the tertiary fold.

Availability:  

Contact:  Jean.Marc.Kwasigroch@ulb.ac.be
HoSeqI: automated homologous sequence identification in gene family databases
Authors: Arigon Anne-Muriel , Perrière Guy , Gouy Manolo
Published: May 2006

Summary: We present a web service allowing to automatically assign sequences to homologous gene families from a set of databases. After identification of the most similar gene family to the query sequence, this sequence is added to the whole alignment and the phylogenetic tree of the family is rebuilt. Thus, the phylogenetic position of the query sequence in its gene family can be easily identified.

Availability:  

Contact:  arigon@biomserv.univ-lyon1.fr

Supplementary Information: Supplementary Data are available at Bioinformatics online.
The Nishino Breathing Method and Ki‐energy (Life‐energy): A Challenge to Traditional Scientific Thinking
Authors: Ohnishi Tsuyoshi , Ohnishi Tomoko
Published: May 2006

The breathing method, which was developed and is being taught by Kozo Nishino, a Japanese Ki‐expert, is for raising the levels of Ki‐energy (life‐energy or the vitality) of an individual. It is neither a therapy nor a healing technique. However, many of his students have experienced an improvement in their health, and in some cases, they were able to overcome health problems by themselves. Since this is an interesting subject from the standpoint of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), we have been collaborating with Nishino to conduct a scientific investigation of his Ki‐energy. We found that Nishino′s Ki‐energy can inhibit cell division of cancer cells, protect isolated mitochondria from heat deterioration and reduce lipid peroxidation in heat‐treated mitochondria. Although Ki‐energy may consist of several different energy forms, we found that at least one of them is near‐infrared radiation between the wavelength range of 0.8 and 2.7 µm. Another interesting observation at his school is the Taiki‐practice (paired Ki‐practice). During this practice, Nishino can ‘move’ his students without any physical contact. Many of them run, jump or roll on the floor when they receive his Ki‐energy. We studied this and propose that ‘information’ is conveyed through the air between two individuals by Ki‐energy. This may be called a five sense‐independent, life‐to‐life communication by Ki. All of our results suggest that we should re‐evaluate the Cartesian dualism (separation of mind and body) which has been a fundamental principle of modern science for the past three centuries.
Food Poisoning Salmonellas in the Poultry‐meat Industry
Authors: Mead Geoffrey C.
Published: May 2006

Poultry meat is a significant source of food poisoning throughout
most of the developed world. In England and Wales it has been regularly
implicated in human salmonellosis, and during 1984‐5 was the apparent
vehicle of infection in 32 per cent of family and general outbreaks.
From 1988 onwards the explosive increase in UK food poisoning due to
Salmonella enteritidis phage type 4 has further implicated
poultry because of the particular association of this organism with
chickens. The present situation provides a considerable challenge for
the industry, where the modern scale and conditions of breeding, rearing
and processing are highly conducive to the spread of minority organisms
such as salmonellas. It also highlights the need for improved control
measures, especially for protecting flocks against salmonella infection
to reduce the hazard of subsequent cross‐contamination in the processing
plant.
Chemical Safety of Food: MAFF′s Role
Authors: Atkins D.P. , Smith S.M.
Published: May 2006

The scientific basis of MAFF′s policy on the chemical safety of
food is described. Examples are provided of the independent advisory
committee structure which depends on scientific information and advice
in formulating proposals to Government. This science takes the form of
pre‐market evaluations of chemical products such as food additives,
pesticides and veterinary products and subsequently extends to the
monitoring of their presence in the diet as part of a wide‐ranging
surveillance programme of the UK′s food supply for food additives,
nutrients and contaminants.
Pesticides and the Campaign for their Reduction
Authors: Ridge Stephen R.
Published: May 2006

The use of pesticides in food production has caused concern among
many consumers. The formation and aims of an organisation, the Council
for the Reduction of Pesticides (CROP), to review the use of pesticides,
investigate alternatives, and to provide a link between government, the
fruit and vegetable industry, and consumers is outlined.
The Influence of Values on Compensatory Eating Behaviour
Authors: Grunert Susanne C.
Published: May 2006

Considers the economic aspects of food consumption patterns by looking at the relationship between value structures and personality profiles as a means for assessing consumers′ basic need orientations, and at eating behaviour as a compensatory strategy when other‐than‐physiological needs are frustrated. Seeks to demonstrate that the concept of values is a promising tool for ascertaining the conditions under which consumer behaviour phenomena might occur. Introduces the concepts of values and compensatory eating behaviour in order to demonstrate their relevance for consumer behaviour research, and describes how these concepts can be measured. Presents some first results from an empirical study, conducted in West Germany, and concludes with some remarks on the implications of its findings.
Life‐cycle Analysis: Polyvinyl Chloride Packaging
Authors: Howell Belinda K.
Published: May 2006

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in its many forms accounts for a large
proportion of plastics production and packaging in Western Europe. Its
applications and fitness for purpose as a food packaging are outlined,
together with an analysis of the energy and materials required and
by‐products made in its production. Methods of production are outlined,
noting the environmental and health hazards. Problems associated with
its disposal are described.
Customer Care: A Brief Overview
Authors: Morris Beryl
Published: May 2006

This article gives a brief overview of what customer care is and
why it matters in libraries and information units. There is a discussion
of the origins of customer care as well as its importance to service
organisations generally. The article looks at the various aspects of
customer care including the effect of visual appearance, the need to
make the service responsive to customers′ needs and other issues. There
is also a brief discussion of the management and training implications
of customer care.
Subject Searching on British OPACs: Problems and Progress
Authors: Slack Frances , Wood Anthony J.
Published: May 2006

The increase in subject access provision on British OPACs over the
last decade is described: end‐users may carry out subject searches using
such facilities as keyword access or Boolean operators; the use of
browsing is particularly flexible and appeals to end‐users. A research
programme at Manchester Polytechnic is discussed which has identified
the conceptual problems created by subject searching, including general
OPAC instructions, inputting of search terms, refining the search
strategy and the subject description of each record. Progress is
described on research into subject searching on a number of fronts and
the enhancement of facilities discussed.
Educating the “Whole” Manager: A Student‐centred Model of Business Education
Authors: Whatley Arthur A.
Published: May 2006

A new student‐centred system of business
education is described. Looking at the
omissions of past programmes of learning,
business schools are urged to concentrate on
the concept of the “whole” manager.
Innovative European Scholarships for British School Leavers
Authors: Swailes Rodney
Published: May 2006

In 1989, British subsidiary Hoechst UK introduced
five scholarship awards to school leavers, to attend
the two‐year vocational training course at Hoechst
AG in Germany. A brief description of the training
scheme is included, which follows the West German
vocational training scheme (Industriekaufmann) and
combines learning at a State vocational training
school with practical work experience in Hoechst.
Three of the participants describe their reactions.
Science and Technology Education: A Comparison of British and American Approaches
Authors: Abbott Ian
Published: May 2006

A comparison from the author′s recent visits to a High School for
Science and Technology situated in a prosperous area with low level of
unemployment in the USA, and a City Technology College in an area of
high unemployment and social deprivation in England. The respective
methods of funding and local support are examined and their implications
discussed as well as the commitment of staff, the motivation of students
and the attitude of other schools. The benefits are compared as well as
the possibilities of disseminating and replicating the developments.
Teacher Placements: Education ad Business Perspectives
Authors: Finn Widget
Published: May 2006

Examines the issues which are involved in teacher placements from
the viewpoint of the teacher and the business person. Demonstrates the
work of the Teacher Placement Service in ensuring that teacher
placements become central to school development priorities and improving
the quality and quantity of business placements in education. Emphasizes
the importance of partnership between education and business to increase
the pupils′ understanding of industry and prepare them for the world of
work.
Women Employees and Senior Management
Authors: Wilson Pauline
Published: May 2006

A study conducted to investigate the aspirations and expectations
women managers hold for achieving senior positions is described. The
subjects were employed in various departments of a public sector
organisation and investigated by the use of biographical interviews. It
was found that individuals aspired to achieve higher level posts than
they expected, and that many had entered a career in the public sector
by default, having received little or poor career advice. Drawing on
research conducted elsewhere describing career choice mechanisms, it is
argued that a combination of work motivation, structure of opportunity,
sex role socialisation and expectations contributes to selflimitation in
women’s career decisions. This process leads subsequently to further
downgrading of expectations in a reinforcing cycle. It is suggested that
by altering expectations (along with confronting socialisation and
structure of opportunity, which is a more common approach) it may be
possible to reduce self‐limitation.
Stress Interventions with Trade Unions
Authors: Orlans Vanja
Published: May 2006

The focus is on the planning and implementation of stress
interventions within trade union organisations in the UK. Case material
from two trade union projects is presented, together with an overview of
some of the key areas of potential stress in such organisational
settings. In addition, an approach to stress diagnosis and management is
outlined which does not separate the individual from the organisation in
an artificial way. The emphasis is rather on the interactive processes
which underpin individual and organisational existence. This theoretical
stance has a number of implications for intervention strategies, and
these are also outlined. A review of some of the key points which are
relevant to the planning of stress interventions in the organisational
setting is presented in conclusion.
The Impact of Employee Share Ownership
Authors: Hyman J. , Ramsay H. , Leopold J. , Baddon L. , Hunter L.C.
Published: May 2006

There has been a considerable amount of interest in employee share
ownership schemes in the last few years, and this has been mirrored by
an increase in publications relating to the subject. However, the
authors argue that this literature leaves much to be desired, in
particular in its implicit assumption that management and employee
interests will converge with share ownership. The evidence from two of
their case studies indicates a divergence between management objectives
and employee responses. It also suggests that trade union attitudes to
share ownership may be changing as well.
THE LONG ARM OF THE LIBRARIAN
Authors: Brophy Peter
Published: May 2006

Inaugural professorial lecture delivered at
Lancashire Polytechnic in May 1990. The
roots of polytechnic libraries can be found
both in the development of the Mechanics′
Institute movement in the 19th century and
in the earlier development of university
libraries. However, modern pressures,
including changing learning methods and the
development of the information society, lead
to the changing model of the polytechnic
library, centred on the user. The role of the
academic library in the future will therefore
be different from that in the past.
BUDGETING IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES
Authors: Lovecy Ian
Published: May 2006

The budgeting process in university libraries is assessed. Following consideration of the political context, approaches to costing
of staff activities are discussed and other expenditure which has to be
given priority either in compiling estimates or in setting a budget are
identified. The various approaches to the control of serials expenditure
and the allocation of the book budget between departments are considered
in some detail, particularly the reasons for using and the factors which
can be used in creating a formula. The political problem of presenting
the budget to a Committee is highlighted and ways of keeping within the
budget through the year are described.
Developing Police Leadership
Authors: Willmer M.A.P. , Gaston Kevin
Published: May 2006

Recent changes in the environment within which the police operates
have placed even more pressure on the need for the service to be led by
high‐calibre officers, and increased emphasis has been placed on the
efficient and effective use of resources. A computer simulation is
described which is designed to reflect a possible simplified future
scenario. It highlights the issues involved in the use of crime
statistics in leading, motivating and controlling personnel.
The Skills Time Bomb: Part 2
Authors: Sinclair John , Collins David
Published: May 2006

Organisations need to look at what proactivity is, how
it can be achieved, and the problems likely to be
encountered in developing proactive staff. Proactive
behaviour is examined, together with its links to
achieving competitive advantage, The need to allow staff
to design and redesign their own work is seen as being
a major vehicle for promoting proactive behaviour.
Management are recommended not to abrogate their
responsibilities, but to promote an environment in which
proactivity can be fostered and channelled effectively.
Limits on proactivity are discussed.
Optimal Commercial Policy under Increasing Returns to Scale
with Sector‐specific Capital
Authors: Guidotti Pablo E. , Kaempfer William H. , Pietruska Alexander M. , Wang Leonard F.S.
Published: May 2006

Recent studies on the welfare implications of internationally
mobile capital for a country employing commercial policy have been
restricted to constant‐returns‐to‐scale (CRS) production models. It is
generally concluded that the pursuit of such policies is
welfare‐decreasing under CRS conditions. The analysis to encompass
variable‐returns‐to‐scale (VRS) is generalised and it is shown that
there is an optimal (second best) combination of import tariff and
foreign capital subsidy that will not be “immiserising” for
an increasing‐returns‐to‐scale (IRS) industry.
Personal Data: The Act Begins to Bite
Authors: Tarrant Peter
Published: May 2006

Managers responsible for personal data held on computer need to be
aware of and comply with the terms of the Data Protection Act 1984.
Registration and compliance with the eight data protection principles
are essential requirements. The role of the Registrar in ensuring
enforcement of the Act is described and examples of the kinds of cases
brought to the Registrar′s attention are given. The changes which could
be made to the Data Protection Act to improve it for the future are also
discussed.
Barcode is Good for Your Wealth
Authors: Lavery Roger
Published: May 2006

Barcode as a powerful automatic identification technique in
everything from retailing to heavy manufacturing is discussed, outlining
the technology available to the industrial sector – industrial
scanners, readers, printers and systems. A typical factory floor data
collection and production information system (ShopScan) is described as
an illustrative example, though wide‐ranging applications are possible.
Communications in the Industrial World
Authors: Leakey David
Published: May 2006

Three main classes of data communications are discussed: (1) short
routine messages which are sent in high volumes, although brief, usually
convey vital information required in the day to day operation of modern
industry; (2) longer, more interactive data exchanges, might include
information such as statistics, reports, machine tool data, etc; (3)
bulk transfer of data, for example, Ford uses high‐capacity links to
transfer car design data and diagrams between its various plants. The
discussion highlights the ways in which management can use the
technology to good advantage with particular emphasis on emerging
technologies which could become important to industry in the future. The
possibilities being opened up by the introduction of ISDN (Integrated
Services Digital Network) and the widespread use of optical fibres are
examined. The new services include concepts such as high‐speed
facsimile, and the ability to transfer speech and data on one channel.
With costs falling rapidly, and technology advancing ever more quickly,
data communications will have an increasingly important role to play in
engineering management.
The Common Sense of CIM
Authors: O′Rourke J. Tracy
Published: May 2006

The article strongly advocates the need for management to rethink
their attitudes to CIM: traditional strategic thinking and traditional
costing and accounting systems are not a realistic means of evaluating
it.
Company Culture – Its Role in an Industrial Society
Authors: Kharbanda Om P. , Stallworthy Ernest A.
Published: May 2006

The concept of company culture is now playing
an ever‐increasing role in the continuing endeavour
to work towards ever better company
management, particularly in the industrial field.
This monograph reviews the history and
development of both national and company
cultures, and then goes on to demonstrate the
significance of a culture to proper company
management. Well‐managed companies will have
both a “quality culture” and a “safety culture”
as well as a cultural history. However, it has to
be recognised that the company culture is subject
to change, and effecting this can be very difficult.
Of the many national cultures, that of Japan is
considered to be the most effective, as is
demonstrated by the present dominance of Japan
on the industrial scene. Many industrialised
nations now seek to emulate the Japanese style
of management, but it is not possible to copy or
acquire Japan′s cultural heritage. The text is
illustrated by a large number of practical examples
from real life, illustrating the way in which the
company culture works and can be used by
management to improve company performance.
Strategic Impact of Information Technology
Authors: Selig Franz F. , Nipper Jack T.
Published: May 2006

To provide the organisational capacity to adopt
information technology (IT) successfully, a
partnership between technology and business
managers must be established. A constructive
dialogue between the two domains is necessary
to develop a viable long‐range strategic business
plan. The implementation of IT not only is a
technological problem, it also requires significant
changes in the business culture.
Interlibrary loan policy and procedures of the King Fahd
University of Petroleum and Minerals library
Authors: Siddiqui Moid A
Published: May 2006

Describes the policies and procedures established to meet its
clients needs. Notes the extensive network that has been developed and
details the statistical information used to monitor the service.
Considers the positive results of using a PC for managing transactions.
Management Contracts: A Role in Internationalisation?
Authors: Welch Lawrence S. , Pacifico Anubis
Published: May 2006

The nature and potential of management contracts as a method of
internationalisation are analysed with reference to Australia′s leading
domestic airline, Ansett. The restrictive regulatory environment of the
airline industry, especially in Australia, had prevented Ansett from
conducting direct international airline services out of Australia. As a
result, it was forced to develop international operations by other
means. This coincided with a desire by a number of newly independent
nations in the South Pacific to set up their own airlines. However, they
lacked the necessary finance and expertise, and so looked to the
established airlines for an acceptable package. For both sides the
management contract with aircraft leasing provided an acceptable answer.
Although the arrangements had mixed success for Ansett, they gave it
basic experience in international operations which has led to diverse
international arrangements – including equity sharing with some
airlines, and even more widespread leasing deals. While making a limited
contribution in themselves, the management contracts were important as a
springboard to wider international involvement.
The Internationalisation of Business in Poland
Authors: Fonfara Krzysztof , Collins Marylyn
Published: May 2006

In recent years, authorities in Poland have recognised the need for
greater internationalisation of business. As with many other socialist
countries, the development of internationalisation has been under the
control and guidance of the state authorities. The authors attempt to
identify whether any long‐term internationalisation policy has been
implemented and whether or not Polish companies follow the customary
internationalisation path. They have found that despite attempts to
implement economic reform, there is both a lack of integration and the
omission of key elements. These failings have hindered development and
export strategy has not been successful to date. The discussion takes
place on both a macro and microeconomic level, examining the various
types of enterprise carrying out foreign trade. The conclusion is that
macroeconomic and micro‐economic conditions create formidable barriers
to the internationalisation of Polish enterprises.
Managing the Multinational Sales Force
Authors: Hill John S. , Still Richard R. , Boya Ünal O.
Published: May 2006

Managing sales forces in multinational contexts is a topic about
which little empirical work has been done. This article reports the
results of a 14‐MNC, 135 subsidiary, survey of multinational sales
management practices, focusing in particular on the extent to which head
offices influence sales functions in subsidiaries. An
industry‐by‐industry analysis shows that electronic data processing
affiliates get considerable head office attention while general consumer
goods subsidiaries do not.
The Single European Market: Its Impact on Strategic Bank Marketing
Authors: Wright Mike , Ennew Christine
Published: May 2006

The signing of the Single European Market Act
in 1987 committed EC member states to the
principles of establishing a single internal market
within which all barriers to trade in services and
manufacturing and obstacles to the movement of
factors of production will be removed. In this
context, the liberalisation of financial markets is
assessed. Aspects of the present regulatory
frameworking affecting suppliers of financial
services are examined and the Commission′s
proposals for the removal of technical barriers
discussed. Some of the positive implications of
these proposals for marketing strategies in the
banking sector are considered.
Retailer Credit Cards: A Competitive Threat
Authors: Worthington Steve
Published: May 2006

Following a discussion of the total United Kingdom
market for plastic cards, detailed information is
given about the number and nature of retailer
credit cards (store cards) currently issued in the
United Kingdom. Retailers in the USA and Italy
are already competing with the traditional financial
institutions in the market for financial services,
and comment is made on their strategies and their
results so far. Retailers in the United Kingdom
are also moving into the provision of financial
services and they are using their well developed
in‐house credit card databases to help launch
these new products. They are also examining ways
to enhance the attractiveness of their credit card
offerings, to differentiate them further from the
MasterCard/Visa credit cards and hence compete
more effectively with the banks in the provision
of credit.
The Importance of Image as a Competitive Strategy: An
Exploratory Study in Commercial Banks
Authors: Leonard Myron , Spencer Austin
Published: May 2006

Owing to increased competition resulting from a decade of
deregulation of the financial services industry, banks find themselves
faced with the task of differentiating their product as a method for
attracting new customers. The importance of bank image is examined as a
competitive strategy for increasing customer traffic flow. A survey of
60 business undergraduates and 46 MBA students measured attitudes
relating to bank size, atmosphere, innovativeness, and attributes
relating to good service. Some significant differences in response by
certain demographic characteristics were also measured. Implications of
the findings and suggestions for further research are provided.
A Simulation Methodology for Evaluating the Reliability, Availability and Performance of the Next European Torus
Authors: Chaharbaghi K. , Goddard A.J.H. , Sayles R.S. , Buende R.
Published: May 2006

The operating targets of the Next European Torus (NET) vary over the planned physics and technology phases of operation, which will be cyclic and dynamic. Using the Dynamic Systems Simulation Language a model is described which mimics the cyclic behaviour of the NET over the technology phase together with its dynamic behaviour. The simulation model represents a methodology that can be used to evaluate the reliability, availability and performance of the NET. A number of case studies are presented to demonstrate the underlying philosophy of the approach.
Quality Control: Changing with the Times
Authors: Cheng T.C.E
Published: May 2006

A brief review of the historical development of quality control is provided, followed by a discussion of some of its fundamental concepts. Two statistical techniques widely used in the traditional quality control programmes are then described and compared with the Japanese Taguchi Methods, an increasingly popular new approach to quality control.
Process Control and Product Quality: The C⊂p and C⊂pk Revisited
Authors: Barnett Neil S.
Published: May 2006

Much emphasis in recent years has been placed on evaluating product quality by use of the C⊂p and C⊂pk indices. These capability indices, particularly the latter, have much appeal as they seemingly wrap up quality into the calculation of a single number. The purpose of this article is to explain the statistical essentials involved in using the C⊂p and C⊂pk indices to assess product quality. Having discussed confidence intervals, definitions and provided some quantitative results, caution is urged in using these indices in practice. Some practical suggestions provide a climax.
An Analysis of the Reliability of the Los Alamos National Laboratory Electrical System
Authors: Bott T.F.
Published: May 2006

The results of a study of the reliability of the Los Alamos National Laboratory electrical system are discussed and an assessment of the risk arising from power interruptions is made. The study was intended to provide a current status of the system and to rank modifications to improve the system. Fault‐tree analysis, cause‐consequence analysis, and directed graphs were used. The study resulted in a ranking of the relative importance of the consequences of power loss to various Los Alamos technical sites and facilities, sets of equipment whose failure will lead to loss of power to the sites, and statistical estimates of the frequency of power loss to sites and facilities.
How Important is Quality Circle Training?
Authors: Honeycutt Alan
Published: May 2006

The Quality Circle programme is used increasingly in all sectors of the US economy. The need is for investigative empirical research into the variables influencing participation in Quality Circles. A study at a major US aerospace company is described in which the major influences turn out to be member training, volunteering and management support. The model used in the investigation was based on an earlier study by Zahra and indicates that member training is the most important factor in participation rate.
Customer‐Supplier Partnerships in the IT Market
Authors: House Ed
Published: May 2006

A new approach, employed by ICL, to the delivery of information technology in the manufacturing market is described. This is based on the principle of assisting companies to gain significant competitive advantage by moving to “world class” status. The ways in which this can be achieved are described, but it is essentially based on customer‐supplier partnerships.
Chain Sampling Plan for Three Attribute Classes
Authors: Shankar Gauri , Mohapatra B.N. , Joseph S.
Published: May 2006

This article presents a new chain sampling plan for three atttibute classes where items are classified into three categories namely good, marginal and bad. Various performance characteristics of interest to quality control engineers and plan designers are derived through GERT approach. In order to facilitate the operation and construction of the plan, Poisson unity values have been tabulated for a useful subset of the proposed plan.
Surfacing Organisational Culture
Authors: Lundberg Craig C.
Published: May 2006

As organisational culture has become recognised as a significant
phenomenon for understanding both managerial and organisational dynamics
and development, two requirements have risen. On the one hand, we need a
conceptual framework for comprehending culture and, on the other hand,
we need methodologies for making culture visible. This article offers
both – initially describing what is becoming a major conceptual
framework for culture work, and then outlining a workshop methodology
for making culture visible. An extended case illustrates both the
framework and one form of culture‐surfacing methodology.
Downsizing Challenges and OD Interventions: A Matching
Strategy
Authors: Buch Kimberly , Aldridge Jack
Published: May 2006

This article identifies the psychological and behavioural effects
associated with corporate downsizing and the managerial challenges they
present. These challenges include renewing psychological contracts,
reversing threat‐rigidity tendencies, building post‐downsizing teams,
and creating new corporate cultures. A strategy for matching specific
Organisation Development (OD) interventions to each challenge is
proposed which might aid managers and consultants in providing
interventions best suited to the needs of each organisation.
Entrepreneurship and the Hungarian Economic Transformation
Authors: Hisrich Robert D. , Vecsenyi Janos
Published: May 2006

The movement of Hungary (and the rest of Eastern Europe for that
matter) from a planned to a market‐orientated economy has attracted the
attention of the world. This article explores the phenomenon by looking
at the political, as well as the entrepreneurs′, perspectives on this
change and the problems that need to be overcome. Infrastructure
developments needed to facilitate the change are outlined for three
crucial areas: education; a supportive business infrastructure;
government policy initiatives.
JOB RELATED ATTITUDES OF PART‐TIME AND FULL‐TIME WORKERS: A
QUASIEXPERIMENTAL STUDY
Authors: Fields Mitchell W. , Thacker James W.
Published: May 2006

An investigation of the attitudinal differences between employees
performing part‐time and full‐time work is reported. The study was
designed specifically to control for the influence of extraneous factors
such as job type. In contrast with earlier research the part‐time
employees studied had positive feelings about their jobs – this
may relate to the nature of the work involved in this case.
Consumer Protection Audit
Authors: Vinten Gerald
Published: May 2006

Auditors need to ensure that their companies possess proper systems
to safeguard against product liability claims under consumer protection
legislation. Such legislation is growing in severity in many parts of
the world, notably in the European Community. The consequences can be
product, brand or even company close down. The auditor needs to design
systems to prevent this. New legislation in the UK provides an
opportunity for all companies to review their current policy.
Ensuring Internal Audit Meets the Needs of Directors
Authors: Bowes Geoffrey
Published: May 2006

In the future, directors will be more accountable for the
management of their companies and given that some, if not the majority
of directors, will be independent people with business acumen, they will
require accurate and timely information to direct their enterprises. In
this respect, the internal audit function, as it affects directors in
New Zealand, is assessed, emphasising the considerable assistance
internal auditors can offer if they report direct to the Board through
the audit committee. It is apparent, however, that internal auditors are
not marketing their functions to directors. They need to understand how
companies operate, who has control, and who needs their services. The
challenge for the Institute of Internal Auditors is to review its
marketing of functions so that directors know what internal auditing can
achieve.