bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Experimental Herbicide CGA 325′615 Inhibits Synthesis of Crystalline Cellulose and Causes Accumulation of Non-Crystalline β-1,4-Glucan Associated with CesA Protein
Authors: Peng Liangcai , Xiang Fan , Roberts Eric , Kawagoe Yasushi , Greve L. Carl , Kreuz Klaus , Delmer Deborah P.
Published: July 2002

Developing cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) fibers, cultured in vitro with their associated ovules, were used to compare the effects of two herbicides that inhibit cellulose synthesis: 2,6-dichlorobenzonitrile (DCB) and an experimental thiatriazine-based herbicide, CGA 325′615. CGA 325′615 in nanomolar concentrations or DCB in micromolar concentrations causes inhibition of synthesis of crystalline cellulose. Unlike DCB, CGA 325′615 also causes concomitant accumulation of non-crystalline β-1,4-glucan that can be at least partially solubilized from fiber walls with ammonium oxalate. The unusual solubility of this accumulated glucan may be explained by its strong association with protein. Treatment of the glucan fraction with protease changes its size distribution and leads to precipitation of the glucan. Treatment of the glucan fraction with cellulase digests the glucan and also releases protein that has been characterized as GhCesA-1 and GhCesA-2—proteins that are believed to represent the catalytic subunit of cellulose synthase. The fact that cellulase treatment is required to release this protein indicates an extremely tight association of the glucan with the CesA proteins. In addition, CGA 325′615, but not DCB, also causes accumulation of CesA protein and a membrane-associated cellulase in the membrane fraction of fibers. In addition to the effects of CGA 325′615 on levels of both of these proteins, the level of both also shows coordinate regulation during fiber development, further suggesting they are both important for cellulose synthesis. The accumulation of non-crystalline glucan caused by CGA 325′615 mimics the phenotype of the cellulose-deficientrsw1 mutant of Arabidopsis that also accumulates an apparently similar glucan (T. Arioli, L. Peng, A.S. Betzner, J. Burn, W. Wittke, W. Herth, C. Camilleri, H. Hofte, J. Plazinski, R. Birch et al. [1998] Science 279: 717).
A review of reliability prediction
Authors: Düpow Heiner , Blount Gordon
Published: July 2002

A general review has been conducted to emphasize the increasing concern with reliability in the engineering industry. The latest books and publications available to the authors have been reviewed during the survey to identify the latest thinking on the topic. Emphasizes the prediction of reliability and its use for further reliability analysis methods. Describes and briefly explains modern methods and tools for reliability prediction, to give an overview to engineers and managers interested in the subject. Includes a small case study of a subsystem of an aircraft system as example of an application of the subject. Includes in the reference section the books and papers used during the review and references for further reading into the subject.
Synergistic effect of thiourea derivatives and non‐ionic surfactants on the inhibition of corrosion of carbon steel in acid environments
Authors: Gopi D. , Bhuvaneswaran N. , Rajeswarai S. , Ramadas K.
Published: July 2002

Some thiourea derivatives, non‐ionic surfactants and their synergism when used simultaneously were evaluated for their efficiency as corrosion inhibitors for mild steel in 1N H2SO4 solution at different temperatures (303, 313 and 323K). A marked inhibition synergism occurred within an optimum concentration range even at higher temperature. The thiourea derivatives obey the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The effect of these compounds on the corrosion behaviour of carbon steel was studied using open circuit potential measurements and potentiodynamic polarization measurements. These data were utilized to calculate activation energy.
Synergistic effect of ethyl phosphonate and Zn2+ in low chloride media
Authors: Rajendran Susai , Apparao B.V. , Palaniswamy N.
Published: July 2002

The synergistic effect of sodium salt of ethyl phosphonic acid (EPA) and Zn2+ on the inhibition of corrosion of mild steel in neutral aqueous environment containing 60 ppm Cl‐ has been evaluated by the weight‐loss method. The formulation consisting of 300 ppm EPA and 300 ppm Zn2+ has 88 per cent inhibition efficiency. The nature of the protective film formed on the metal surface has been analysed by x‐ray diffraction, FTIR, uv‐visible and luminescence spectra. The protective film is found to be luminescent and to consist of Fe2+ ‐EPA complex, Zn (OH)2 and a very thin film of oxides of iron.
Shopping for food in socially contrasting localities
Authors: Ellaway Anne , Macintyre Sally
Published: July 2002

Studies the food shopping practices and priorities among residents (in their mid‐40s and mid‐60s) of four socially contrasting neighbourhoods in Glasgow, Scotland. Poorer people were more likely to give priority to price. Although overall, most grocery shopping is done in supermarkets, poorer people and those living in more disadvantaged areas were more likely than higher income groups to shop for basic foodstuffs such as bread, milk, fruit and vegetables in local shops. Public health and social policies may need to focus on local neighbourhoods in order to reach those groups whose health is poorer and who are most at risk from diet related diseases.
Improved consumer product development. Part one
Authors: Pound Carol , Duizer Lisa , McDowell Katie
Published: July 2002

Consumer responses of attribute liking and intensity as well as overall liking of commercial chocolate were evaluated in four types of testing situations (central location, in‐home, teaching laboratory and formal sensory laboratory). The aim was to determine if there were differences in these responses based on testing situation. This was also an attempt to evaluate and validate the use of in‐home testing for product development samples. Perceptions of certain attributes were found to differ in different testing situations but liking scores of these attributes did not. Consumers were more critical of attributes when tested in a formal sensory laboratory. All four locations tested gave similar results, meaning that, conducting sensory panels at home is as valid a method of collecting consumer opinion as traditional locations. It should be noted that the use of a formal sensory laboratory might have an impact on cost effectiveness of new product development. Results are more likely to indicate the need to continue formulation in order to perfect attribute scores, although this may not actually improve consumer‐liking scores. This continued product development only serves to increase the costs and slow the speed to market.
Consumer perception of the nature and quality of home‐made and commercial dairy ice cream
Authors: Bower John A. , Baxter Irene A.
Published: July 2002

An important consumer opinion of some food products relates to the perception of “home‐made quality”. This study examined consumer perception of this aspect in dairy ice cream along with product knowledge and consumption habits and influences. A questionnaire was delivered followed by tasting of commercial products and home‐made formulations. All of the participants (n = 105) consumed dairy ice cream and 62 per cent named it as their most frequent type of ice cream, with sensory quality being the most important reason influencing choice. Product knowledge was relatively high with 74 per cent of respondents claiming to know two out of three product characteristics. Consumer opinion was divided on a pre‐stated preference for “home‐made” or “commercial”, with 56 per cent being in favour of the home‐made form, which was valued because of an assumed superior taste, quality and a more intimate knowledge of ingredients. Commercial quality also required “good taste”, but its convenience value was very important. On blind tasting, the degree of liking for both forms was usually high, but correct identification (home‐made vs commercial) levels were low. Subjects with previous experience of home‐made ice cream had a more positive attitude to it, and had more success in distinguishing it from the commercial form. Generally, home‐made quality was viewed as a desirable feature of dairy ice cream.
The location of food stores in urban areas: a case study in Glasgow
Authors: Cummins Steven , Macintyre Sally
Published: July 2002

During the late 1990s there has been an increasing interest in the concept of “food deserts” (populated areas with little or no food retail provision). It has been suggested that they are more likely to be found in deprived areas; however there has been little systematic research on their prevalence and distribution. This paper describes a preliminary analysis of the location of food outlets in the Greater Glasgow Health Board Area. Data were collected as part of a project on spatial variations in the price and availability of food. Based on all 79 multiple stores, and a 1 in 9 sample (n = 246) of all non‐multiple stores in the area, we did not find any evidence for the existence of food deserts, and found that food stores were more numerous in the more deprived localities and postcode districts in the study site.
Coaching for results
Authors: King Paul , Eaton John
Published: July 2002

Traditional training teaches specific skills and concepts often in a series of discrete and ultimately disjointed processes. Coaching, on the other hand, is an open‐ended process that analyses the present situation, defines the performance goal, combines personal, organizational and external resources and then implements a plan for achieving that goal. Following this definition, the article considers the coaching process in detail, and the role of the coach, particularly how members of the team make use of him or her. It develops two models for coaching to deal with different circumstances and illustrates their use with case studies. A “coaching culture” within the organization can also help generate a forum for creativity, planning and problem solving.
Licensing systems for engine oils
Authors: Margaroni David J.
Published: July 2002

Crankcase lubricants for automotive and commercial use are differentiated by their physico‐chemical properties but more importantly by their performance in a series of engine test sequences. The sequences are devised by committees formed by representatives from the vehicle manufacturers, the oil companies and the additive suppliers. The article describes the sequences devised by the American Petroleum Institute and the European ACEA organisations, including some historical background as well as the current specifications. Methods of compliance monitoring and enforcement are also covered.
Accessing and engaging vocational knowledge: instructional media versus everyday practice
Authors: Billett Stephen
Published: July 2002

Analyses the development of vocational knowledge through two contrasting approaches which are referred to as the “instructional media” and everyday practice. The former is the text‐based approach currently favoured by government and the latter is an approach to learning through participation in everyday activities. Using data from a study conducted in the workplace, appraises the processes and outcomes of these two approaches to learning. Indicates that everyday practice offers the greatest likelihood of securing vocational knowledge. Concludes that access to, and ongoing engagement with, authentic learning activities are significant attributes to this approach to the acquisition of vocational knowledge.
From the further education margins to the higher education centre? Innovation in continuing education
Authors: Davies David
Published: July 2002

Comments that both the higher education and further education sectors have experienced massive change and turbulence within the last decade. Explains that the growth of a mass higher education system in the UK and the need for increased diversity of educational opportunity have meant that institutions have had to reshape radically their conventional provision. Stresses that the main drive for qualifications and for vocational relevance has taken place in the context of major changes in the labour market and shifts in the UK’s economy. Charts the growth of an agenda for change as personal and professional learning converge. Highlights innovations in teaching and learning methods as continuing education develops, and notes that the boundaries between providers are dissolving.
Tenure and Contracts: The Experience of UK CEOs
Authors: Conyon Martin J.
Published: July 2002

Describes the tenure and contract experience of approximately 300 UK
chief executive officers (CEOs) in 1993. Draws on the results of a
retrospective postal questionnaire and examines whether the
recommendations of the Cadbury report regarding contract provision of
senior executives are being adhered to. The results of this descriptive
exercise show that the median contract length of a typical UK CEO in a
large company is three years. This is in line with the recommendations
made by the Cadbury report. We find that on average such CEOs have been
with their company for about five and a half years. Argues that, as a
matter of good policy, companies should reveal the reasons for the
length of the contract received by the CEO if this exceeds 12 months.
Key to success for vision system users
Authors: Graves Colin
Published: July 2002

Describes an “innovation” in machine vision technology from Cognex, UK called PatMax. This is technology implemented in machine vision software that “understands” images. Describes the benefits of PatMax according to Cognex, UK.
Evaluation of the ductility features in steel structures with softening moment‐rotation behaviour based on a nonconvex optimization formulation
Authors: Karakostas S.M. , Mistakidis E.S.
Published: July 2002

In order to determine the ductility features of steel structures, several approaches have been introduced in the bibliography. In this paper a certain method is proposed which considers the actual form of the moment‐rotation curve, including the possible softening branches. Moreover, stability phenomena are also taken into account as they significantly influence the overall response of the structure. For the effective application of the considered method, a solution algorithm was developed, mainly based on the nonconvex optimization theory. The numerical applications that follow demonstrate the applicability of the adopted approach.
Shape optimization with the biological growth method: a parameter study
Authors: Erman Tekkaya A. , Güneri Alper
Published: July 2002

Studies the effect of parameters controlling the biological growth method by applying it to the classical optimization problem of a plate with a central hole under biaxial stress state. It has been found that the optimization character of the method depends strongly on the so‐called reference stress. Depending on the magnitude of this parameter either a local or global optimum is approached. A global optimum corresponds to the minimum possible v. Mises stress along the hole boundary (and hence in the plate), whereas a local optimum presents the modified shape of the hole yielding an uniform stress distribution whose magnitude is larger than the minimum possible value and which is equal to the specified reference stress. The magnification factor applied to the iterative displacement results influences the optimization speed. Too large factors lead to divergence of the solution. Furthermore, it has been found that the dimension of the optimization domain has a critical effect on the optimization result.
A general multi‐axle vehicle model to study the bridge‐vehicle interaction
Authors: Fafard Mario , Bennur Mallikarjuna , Savard Marc
Published: July 2002

Develops a general five‐axle vehicle model to study the dynamic interactions between the moving mass and the bridge structural components. Two‐axle, three‐axle, or four‐axle sprung loads, and the limiting load conditions such as a moving constant force, a moving alternating force, a moving unsprung mass, and combinations thereof, can be treated as special cases of the more general case presented. Further, its integration with the versatile finite element modelling has enhanced the practical applicability of such a theoretical development. The physical characteristics of the bridge and the vehicle, such as the bridge geometry, mechanical properties, profile of the road surface, the vehicle parameters including the distance between axles, leaf springs suspension and the total weight, are considered explicitly in the present model. The dynamic equations of equilibrium in time are integrated using the Newmark integration scheme. Verifies the accuracy of the algorithm by comparing the numerical results obtained from the present formulation with the experimental results.
A symmetric Craig‐Bampton method of coupled fluid‐structure systems
Authors: Wandinger Johannes
Published: July 2002

A symmetric Craig‐Bampton method of coupled fluid‐structure systems is developed. The reduced matrices of the substructure have the same features as those of conventional substructures. Thus, standard procedures can be applied to assemble and solve the equations of the complete system. To solve the eigenvalue problem related to the substructure a special subspace iteration procedure is presented. The method can be applied to fluid‐structure systems with compressible or incompressible fluids. Constant pressure modes can be dealt with by a convenient separation technique.
Occupational stress among sex offender treatment managers
Authors: Brown Jennifer , Blount Claire
Published: July 2002

Occupational stressors were identified through qualitative interviews with sex offender treatment managers (N = 21) serving within HM prisons in England and Wales. Multidimensional scaling techniques revealed three distinctive stressor foci: intrinsic job factors; other people; personal. The pattern of stressor experience was related to length of time serving as a treatment manager, moving from inner to outward emphasis. The least experienced managers were more concerned about aspects of personal safety, those moderately experienced expressed greatest concern about the quality and consequences of their supervision and the most experienced were exercised by policy related issues. Distress, as measured by GHQ(12) was not statistically significantly related to levels of subjectively reported stress. The paper concludes by discussing implications for intervention.
Current themes in organizational design
Authors: Morley Michael J. , Garavan Thomas N.
Published: July 2002

Examines current themes in organizational design which permeate the extant literature and highlights possible implications for human resource development (HRD). Highlights key factors forcing change and innovation in organization design, namely competition, the need for flexibility and the ability to meet the demands of the new knowledge workforce. Presents and evaluates organizational responses in the form of TQM, employee empowerment, structural de‐layering, competitive cultures and high performance work design. Finally, discusses possible implications for HRD and the HRD specialist, emphasizing the need for a rethink of the nature of learning in organizations.
Windows‐based simulation software as an aid to learning
Authors: Lehaney Brian , Kogetsidis Harry , Platt Avril , Clarke Steve
Published: July 2002

Simulation is one of the most widely used tools within management science. The teaching of simulation has traditionally involved theory and practical model development. With the advent of modern software, practical model development can be undertaken with very little knowledge of simulation theory. This enables students who are more able in model building to develop their capabilities in this area and use their strengths to help develop the theoretical knowledge as they progress. This paper demonstrates how a little knowledge of the principles of simulation has been used to help students to develop working models by prototyping.
Special educational needs co‐ordinators: elements of the job in the light of the Code of Practice
Authors: Bowers Tony
Published: July 2002

In England and Wales, the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs now places emphasis on the role of the special educational needs co‐ordinator, or SENCO. Analyses the results of a study of 63 SENCOs, in primary and secondary schools in one urban local education authority in England. Examines status in school, levels of salary and time devoted to the role as well as the extent to which SENCOs managed other personnel, together with their reports on ways in which the use of resources was monitored within their schools. It appears that SENCOs’ status is being recognized in many schools, not just by their salary levels but by the time which they have available to devote to their jobs. Administrative burdens brought by the Code of Practice are a continuing concern. Concludes that most SENCOs continue to view resource monitoring as an accounting exercise rather than one in which pupil involvement can be linked to expenditure on inputs.
The development of foreign‐owned manufacturing subsidiaries: some empirical evidence
Authors: Williams David
Published: July 2002

The development of multinational subsidiaries is of interest to academics, policy‐makers and the business community. Although there is a considerable literature on subsidiary typologies, there is a dearth of empirical investigation to accompany this. This article reports on a field‐work survey which was undertaken to analyse the nature of subsidiary development in the UK economy. A large sample of companies were asked to provide details of their value‐added activities and degree of strategic autonomy granted by their parent organisations. These data were collected in respect of their entry to the UK and at the time of the survey so that a comparison would yield conclusions about subsidiary development. The analysis of the data reveals that subsidiary development is associated with the ownership (i.e. geographical location) of the parent company, as well as the entry mode which the parent company chooses to enter the host economy. The precise nature of these relationships is complex and the article concludes by suggesting some future research agendas in this area.
Satellite television and the single European market: a study of policy failure and lost business opportunities
Authors: McPherson Campbell
Published: July 2002

This paper is concerned with the destruction of European Union policies which would have resulted in the development of a Single European Market in satellite television, and the lost opportunities for European business and consumers resulting from this. The focus of the paper is on the technical sector involving the transmission of satellite television programmes directly to the viewer’s home (DTH) and is concerned with the broad sweep of lost business opportunities and consumer benefits; there is no attempt to quantify any such losses. The term “consumer” is used in the paper in the loosest welfare / opportunity cost sense of one who gains access to desired goods and services including the simple act of sitting in front a television and watching a programme. “Businesses” are considered to be profit orientated organisations which may function within or outside the law. Whilst the main thrust of this paper is upon the British environment and consumers, the findings also have significant implications for businesses and consumers outside of the UK.
Sewability of denim
Authors: Behera B.K. , Chand S. , Singh T.G. , Rathee P.
Published: July 2002

Denim fabrics of various weight ranges were sewn with three different compositions of sewing threads ‐ 100 per cent cotton, 100 per cent polyester and corespun thread ‐ with all possible ticket numbers, to examine the interaction of various fabric‐thread combinations. The sewing thread performance in terms of seam efficiency, pucker, slippage and needle cutting index was determined and the results were analysed in the light of the dimensional and mechanical properties of the fabric, thread and seam itself. Corespun threads were found to be most suitable from a seam efficiency point of view. However, other sewing parameters such as pucker, slippage and damage were adversely affected by sewing with corespun threads. Tensile properties of fabrics and threads were found to be the most important factors for sewability. Breaking strength and elongation of the fabric and sewing thread had an excellent correlation with seam efficiency. Cotton threads were found to be most suitable for sewing denim from a seam puckering point of view. On the other hand, polyester threads were more prone to develop seam pucker. Corespun thread was the greatest yarn damager compared to cotton and polyester threads. Fabric cover factor and sewing thread diameter were highly correlated with the needle cutting index.
Finite element analysis of sewing process
Authors: Mallet Eric , Du Ruxu
Published: July 2002

Sewing is one of the most commonly used manufacturing processes in the world. Millions of parts are sewn every day ranging from cloths, shoes, furniture, to automobile seat covers. However, it is also one of the least understood processes. In fact, according to literature survey, few know how to calculate the sewing force or the fabric deformation during the sewing. This paper presents our research on using finite element model (FEM) to study the sewing process. The model is developed using ANSYS software system. In the model, the fabric is approximated by a number of perpendicular beam elements with elastic and plastic capabilities. On the other hand, the needle is modeled by a simple elastic beam. The contact between the two parts is modeled by contact elements. The variations of the needle geometry and the fabric material properties as well as the sewing conditions are also included in the model. The model can simulate the needle piercing through a material, and calculates the sewing forces as well as the fabric deformation forming a hole. It has been verified experimentally and can be used to study the effects of the key sewing parameters such as the fabric material properties and the needle geometry.
Quality customer service: strategic advantage for the Indian steel industry
Authors: Sinha Gautam , Ghoshal Taposh
Published: July 2002

Over the years, with the increasing competition of the marketplace, the distinction between manufacturing and service industries is getting blurred. The core, manufactured products today are so entwined with services, that they have become indistinguishable. Moreover, these services are expected by the customer as an integral part of the product. Slowly all business is tending to be service‐oriented, aimed at satisfying customer needs. The Indian steel industry has been liberalised, after decades of protection and the competition is fierce. Capacities are being added at a furious pace, newer technologies are being introduced and cheaper imports are being dumped. In such a scenario, the answer to gaining competitive advantage lies in providing superior value to the customer, by providing customer service with the product at a lower delivery cost. Using customer service to retain and acquire customers could provide a new strategic advantage for steel makers. This paper explores the key issues, and possibilities and presents a strategy for achieving strategic advantage through customer service, in the context of the Indian steel industry. The concept can be extrapolated for any developing economy.
Finite element analysis of transient natural convection in an odd‐shaped enclosure
Authors: Nithiarasu P. , Sundararajan T. , Seetharamu K.N.
Published: July 2002

The transient natural convective flow and heat transfer in a combined vertical and horizontal enclosure have been studied. The Galerkin’s finite element method coupled with Eulerian velocity correction scheme for pressure prediction has been employed. A detailed parametric study has been undertaken for evaluating the effects of Rayleigh number (Ra), width ratio (WR), and prescribed boundary conditions. The results indicate that the flow and isothermal patterns are strongly dependent on Ra and WR. Comparison with the results of vertical and horizontal enclosures indicates that the flow and heat transfer phenomena inside complex shaped cavities may be approximated in terms of the processes within vertical or horizontal sub‐domains. This appears to be reasonably valid if opposite walls of the enclosure are parallel. It is also observed that for certain types of boundary conditions, steady solutions do not exist at high Rayleigh numbers.
Emergency fund‐raising for disaster relief
Authors: Bennett Roger , Kottasz Rita
Published: July 2002

Two hundred members of the public were interviewed in high street and railway station locations in central London to ascertain the considerations that encourage them to donate generously to a disaster relief fund‐raising appeal. It emerged that the major fund‐raising triggers involved media representations of the indigency of aid recipients, portrayals of people helping themselves, and highly emotive advertising imagery. Although they were potentially patronising and demeaning to disaster victims, such depictions seemingly exerted powerful influences on donation decisions. Factors discouraging donations included media reports of unfair aid distributions, warfare or internal insurrection, and inefficiency in the relief operation. Combined fund‐raising efforts covering several organisations were viewed more favourably than individual charity initiatives. State endorsements of particular campaigns exerted little influence. Some but not all of the variables known to determine levels of donations to charity in general also explained the incidence of donations to disaster relief appeals. However, people with young children gave to disaster appeals more frequently than the rest of the sample, contradicting previous findings in the general (non‐disaster) charity fund‐raising area.
Quality in initial teacher education
Authors: Blake David , Lansdell Jenny
Published: July 2002

Presents a critique of the assumptions underlying the Teacher Training Agency (TTA) strategy of defining quality centrally and imposing its view through a power‐coercive change process. An alternative view of effective teacher education is developed, based on the contention that high quality courses result from the thinking and commitment of teacher education professionals, working with their colleagues in schools, in local settings. It is argued that the development of high quality initial teacher training (ITE) results essentially from the engagement of teacher educators with ideas drawn from teacher education practice and research. Centrally‐driven curriculum blue‐prints are unlikely to lead to the same high quality results, rather they will tend to result in mere compliance. The argument is illustrated by an example of teacher education development in one institution leading to a set of propositions about the elements which characterise high quality teacher education more generally.
Information technology in the classroom: experiences and recommendations
Authors: Edling Robert J.
Published: July 2002

Four years of classroom experience indicate that information technology can enhance student learning. Commercial interest in IT for training supports this enhancement. Classes taught are described. In addition, methods, hardware, software and various aspects of application and use are discussed. Although video and sound have not been used, graphics, programming with Javascript and guided exercises have been successfully applied. The use of the integrated courseware, Blackboard, has been used effectively for testing and keeping grades. Twelve tests were given to approximately 50 students over a period of eight weeks. Tests were primarily multiple choice although other forms of questions could have been used. Tests were automatically graded and scores posted with few difficulties.
Managing student access to university information networks ‐ the Australian experience
Authors: Debreceny Roger , Ellis Allan
Published: July 2002

Demand by students for access to institutional computing and network resources is a management issue for universities throughout the world. A survey of the IT directors of Australian universities was conducted. The survey sought details of the provision of IT resources to students and particularly the management of network resources for access to institutional CWISs and to the wider Internet. The survey established that considerable investment has been made in the provision and quality of on‐ and off‐campus network access for students. At the same time, universities in Australia face rapid growth in demand for network access. The study reports institutional responses to this demand and the concerns of the management of the IT function in Australian universities.
The Internet and the independence of individuals with disabilities
Authors: Grimaldi Caroline , Goette Tanya
Published: July 2002

This study examines the role of the Internet and its usage on the level of perceived independence among people with physical disabilities. A questionnaire was posted on the Internet as well as distributed to two associations. It was answered by 24 people with physical disabilities who use the Internet, and 22 people with physical disabilities who do not use the Internet. The results of the two groups were compared. It was found that an increase in the number of Internet services used positively influences the perceived level of independence among individuals with physical disabilities. This was particularly true for independence related to the fields of employment and learning. The various Internet services used do not impact the same components of independence to the same degree. The usage of the World Wide Web and Telnet particularly benefits independence.
Change and circumstance in Kyrgyz markets
Authors: Paul Dana Leo
Published: July 2002

Many market research methods normally used in the West encounter a variety of problems if relocated to environments that are culturally very different. This article is about the Kyrgyz Republic, where assumptions of mainstream marketing simply do not apply. In order to engage in successful marketing in the Kyrgyz Republic, one must distinguish between three sectors of the economy: the formal firm‐type sector; the state‐controlled planned sector; and the bazaar, where the traditional focus is not on the transaction but on personal relationships. The author defines and describes each of these, and reports on ethnographic research conducted in the Kyrgyz Republic. The article concludes with a discussion of qualitative methodology and its relevance.
Designing a knowledge management performance framework
Authors: de Gooijer Jinette
Published: July 2002

Measuring the business benefits of knowledge management is difficult. Even more so for public sector agencies whose outcomes are social benefits, rather than simple profit. Describes an approach for measuring the performance of knowledge management strategies for a public sector agency in Victoria, Australia. Knowledge management is defined as those actions which support collaboration and integration. Two models are presented for measuring knowledge management performance and knowledge management behaviours: a performance framework based on the balanced scorecard approach, and a behaviour framework that identifies levels of practice demonstrated by individuals. The Knowledge Management Performance Scorecard maps the objectives for knowledge management across the balanced scorecard’s key result areas The Knowledge Management Behaviour Framework identifies seven levels of knowledge management skills for demonstrating collaborative behaviour. The framework also outlines what might be typical behaviours of managers and the roles they would assume in relation to individuals at each level.
Substrate entropy in enzyme enantioselectivity: An experimental and molecular modeling study of a lipase
Authors: Ottosson Jenny , Fransson Linda , Hult Karl
Published: July 2002

The temperature dependence of the enantioselectivity of Candida antarctica lipase B for 3‐hexanol, 2‐butanol, 3‐methyl‐2‐butanol, 3,3‐dimethyl‐2‐butanol, and 1‐bromo‐2‐butanol revealed that the differential activation entropy, ΔR−SΔS‡, was as significant as the differential activation enthalpy, ΔR−SΔH‡, to the enantiomeric ratio, E. 1‐Bromo‐2‐butanol, with isosteric substituents, displayed the largest ΔR−SΔS‡. 3‐Hexanol displayed, contrary to other sec‐alcohols, a positive ΔR−SΔS‡. In other words, for 3‐hexanol the preferred R‐enantiomer is not only favored by enthalpy but also by entropy. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and systematic search calculations of the substrate accessible volume within the active site revealed that the (R)‐3‐hexanol transition state (TS) accessed a larger volume within the active site than the (S)‐3‐hexanol TS. This correlates well with the higher TS entropy of (R)‐3‐hexanol. In addition, this enantiomer did also yield a higher number of allowed conformations, N, from the systematic search routines, than did the S‐enantiomer. The substrate accessible volume was greater for the enantiomer preferred by entropy also for 2‐butanol. For 3,3‐dimethyl‐2‐butanol, however, neither MD‐simulations nor systematic search calculations yielded substrate accessible volumes that correlate to TS entropy. Ambiguous results were achieved for 3‐methyl‐2‐butanol.
Lipopolysaccharide phosphorylating enzymes encoded in the genomes of Gram‐negative bacteria are related to the eukaryotic protein kinases
Authors: Krupa A. , Srinivasan N.
Published: July 2002

By means of profile‐matching procedures, conservation of functionally important residues, and fold‐recognition techniques, we show that two distinct families of lipopolysaccharide kinases encoded in the genomes of Gram‐negative bacteria are related to each other and to two distinct classes of proteins, namely eukaryotic protein kinases and right open reading frame (RIO1). Members of one of the lipopolysaccharide kinase families are identified only in pathogenic bacteria. Phosphorylation by these enzymes is relevant in the construction of outer membrane, immune response, and pathogenic virulence. The class of proteins called RIO1, also related to eukaryotic protein kinases and previously known to occur only in archaea and eukaryotes, are now identified in eubacteria as well. It has been suggested here that RIO1 proteins are intermediately related to lipopolysaccharide kinases and eukaryotic protein kinases implying an evolutionary relationship between the three classes of proteins.
Electrostatic properties of the anion selective porin Omp32 from Delftia acidovorans and of the arginine cluster of bacterial porins
Authors: Zachariae Ulrich , Koumanov Assen , Engelhardt Harald , Karshikoff Andrey
Published: July 2002

The functional properties of the anion‐selective porin Omp32 from the bacterium Delftia acidovorans, formerly Comamonas acidovorans, are determined by the particularly narrow channel constriction and the electrostatic field inside and outside the pore. A cluster of arginines (Arg 38, Arg 75, and Arg 133) determines the electrostatic field close to the constriction zone. Stacked amino acids carrying charges are prone to drastic pKa shifts. However, optimized calculations of the titration behavior of charged groups, based on the finite‐difference Poisson‐Boltzmann technique, suggest that all the arginines are charged at physiological pH. Protonation of the clustered arginines is stabilized by one buried glutamate residue (Glu 58), which is strongly interacting with Arg 75 and Arg 38. This functional arrangement of three charged amino acid residues is of general significance because it is found in the constriction zones of all known 16‐stranded porins from the α‐, β‐, and γ‐proteobacteria.
Effects of inhibitors of the lipo‐oxygenase family of enzymes on the store‐operated calcium current ICRAC in rat basophilic leukaemia cells
Authors: Glitsch Maike D. , Bakowski Daniel , Parekh Anant B.
Published: July 2002

In non‐excitable cells, the major Ca2+ entry pathway is the store‐operated pathway in which emptying of intracellular Ca2+ stores activates Ca2+ channels in the plasma membrane. In many cell types, store‐operated influx gives rise to a Ca2+‐selective current called ICRAC (Ca2+ release‐activated Ca2+ current). Using both the whole‐cell patch clamp technique to measure ICRAC directly and fluorescent Ca2+ imaging, we have examined the role of the lipo‐oxygenase pathway in the activation of store‐operated Ca2+ entry in the RBL‐1 rat basophilic leukaemia cell‐line. Pretreatment with a variety of structurally distinct lipo‐oxygenase inhibitors all reduced the extent of ICRAC, whereas inhibition of the cyclo‐oxygenase enzymes was without effect. The inhibition was still seen in the presence of the broad protein kinase blocker staurosporine, or when Na+ was used as the charge carrier through CRAC channels. The lipo‐oxygenase blockers released Ca2+ from intracellular stores but this was not associated with subsequent Ca2+ entry. Lipo‐oxygenase blockers also reduced both the amount of Ca2+ that could subsequently be released by the combination of thapsigargin and ionomycin in Ca2+‐free solution and the Ca2+ influx component that occurred when external Ca2+ was re‐admitted. The inhibitors were much less effective if applied after ICRAC had been activated. This inhibition of ICRAC could not be rescued by dialysis with 5(S)‐hydroxyperoxyeicosa‐6E,8Z,11Z,14Z, tetraenoic acid (5‐HPETE), the first product of the 5‐lipo‐oxygenase pathway. Our findings indicate that exposure to pharmacological tools that inhibit the lipo‐oxygenase enzymes all decrease the extent of activation of the current. Our results raise the possibility that a lipo‐oxygenase might be involved in the activation of ICRAC. Alternative explanations are also discussed.
Reversible impairment of endothelium‐dependent relaxation in golden hamster carotid arteries during hibernation
Authors: Saito Hideki , Thapaliya Sharada , Matsuyama Hayato , Nishimura Masakazu , Unno Toshihiro , Komori Seiichi , Takewaki Tadashi
Published: July 2002

The effects of hibernation on endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation were investigated in the golden hamster carotid artery, paying special attention to hibernating body temperature (10 °C). To record mechanical and electrical membrane responses, we applied pharmacological (organ bath) and electrophysiological (microelectrode) techniques, using acetylcholine (ACh; 0.001–100 μm) and ATP (0.01–1000 μm) for endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation and sodium nitroprusside (SNP; 0.05–10 μm) for endothelium‐independent vasodilatation. At 34 °C, ACh, ATP and SNP each induced a relaxation or a hyperpolarization, and these responses were similar in all the preparations from control and hibernated animals. At 10 °C, on the other hand, ACh‐induced relaxations and hyperpolarizations were reduced to approximately 35 % and 50 % of the euthermic level in controls and 1 % and 4 % of the euthermic level in hibernated animals, respectively. In contrast, at 10 °C, ATP induced only a contraction or depolarization in all preparations with no significant difference between control and hibernated animals. SNP‐induced relaxations and hyperpolarizations obtained at 34 °C were not attenuated by cooling to 10 °C. In the presence of a P2X receptor blocker, pyridoxal phosphate‐6‐azophenyl‐2′,4′‐disulphonic acid (PPADS; 5 μm), at 34 °C ATP‐induced relaxations and hyperpolarizations were significantly enhanced whereas no responses were induced by ATP at 10 °C. After endothelium removal, on the other hand, ATP induced only a contraction or depolarization at both 34 °C and 10 °C. These results suggest that depression of endothelium‐dependent vasodilator responses to ACh and ATP may occur in the hibernating golden hamster carotid artery.
Prostaglandin E2 inhibits calcium current in two sub‐populations of acutely isolated mouse trigeminal sensory neurons
Authors: Borgland Stephanie L. , Connor Mark , Ryan Renae M. , Ball Helen J. , Christie MacDonald J.
Published: July 2002

Prostaglandins are important mediators of pain and inflammation. We have examined the effects of prostanoids on voltage‐activated calcium currents (ICa) in acutely isolated mouse trigeminal sensory neurons, using standard whole cell voltage clamp techniques. Trigeminal neurons were divided into two populations based on the presence (Type 2) or absence (Type 1) of low voltage‐activated T‐type ICa. The absence of T‐type ICa is highly correlated with sensitivity to μ‐opioid agonists and the VR1 agonist capsaicin. In both populations of cells, high voltage‐activated ICa was inhibited by PGE2 with an EC50 of about 35 nm, to a maximum of 30 %. T‐type ICa was not inhibited by PGE2. Pertussis toxin pre‐treatment abolished the effects of PGE2 in Type 2 cells, but not in Type 1 cells, whereas treatment with cholera toxin prevented the effects of PGE2 in Type 1 cells, but not in Type 2 cells. Inhibition of ICa by PGE2 was associated with slowing of current activation and could be relieved with a large positive pre‐pulse, consistent with inhibition of ICa by G protein βγ subunits. Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction of mRNA from trigeminal ganglia indicated that all four EP prostanoid receptors were present. However, in both Type 1 and Type 2 cells the effects of PGE2 were only mimicked by the selective EP3 receptor agonist ONO‐AE‐248, and not by selective agonists for EP1 (ONO‐DI‐004), EP2 (ONO‐AE1–259) and EP4 (ONO‐AE1–329) receptors. These data indicate that two populations of neurons in trigeminal ganglia differing in their calcium channel expression, sensitivity to μ‐opioids and capsaicin also have divergent mechanisms of PGE2‐mediated inhibition of calcium channels, with Gi/Go type G proteins involved in one population, and Gs type G proteins in the other.
Presynaptic modulation of synaptic transmission by opioid receptor in rat subthalamic nucleus in vitro
Authors: Shen Ke‐Zhong , Johnson Steven W.
Published: July 2002

Presynaptic modulation of synaptic transmission in rat subthalamic nucleus (STN) neurons was investigated using whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings in brain slices. Evoked GABAergic inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) were reversibly reduced by methionine enkephalin (ME) with an IC50 value of 1.1 ± 0.3 μM. The action of ME was mimicked by the μ‐selective agonist [d‐Ala2, N‐Me‐Phe4, Gly5‐ol]‐enkephalin (DAMGO), and was partially blocked by the μ‐selective antagonists naloxonazine and d‐Phe‐Cys‐Tyr‐d‐Trp‐Arg‐Thr‐Pen‐Thr‐NH2 (CTAP). Evoked GABAA IPSCs were also inhibited by the δ‐selective agonist [d‐Pen2,5]‐enkephalin (DPDPE), but not by the κ‐selective agonist (+)‐(5α,7α,8β)‐N‐methyl‐N‐[7‐(1‐pyrrolidinyl)‐1‐oxaspiro[4.5]dec‐8‐yl]‐benzeneacetamide (U‐69593) and the orphan receptor agonist orphanin FQ/nociceptin (OFQ). DPDPE‐induced inhibition was completely blocked by the δ‐selective antagonist N,N‐diallyl‐Tyr‐Aib‐Aib‐Phe‐Leu‐OH (ICI 174,864). ME, DAMGO and DPDPE increased the paired‐pulse ratio of IPSCs. Evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) were reversibly reduced by ME with an IC50 value of 0.35 ± 0.14 μM. Inhibition by ME was associated with an increase in the paired‐pulse ratio of EPSCs. The action of ME was mimicked by DAMGO, and blocked by naloxonazine. DPDPE had little effect on evoked EPSCs. Neither U‐69593 nor OFQ had any effect. ME significantly decreased the frequency of spontaneous miniature EPSCs (mEPSCs) without change in their amplitude. The action of ME was mimicked by DAMGO. DPDPE had no effect. The presynaptic voltage‐dependent potassium conductance blocker 4‐aminopyridine (4‐AP, 100 μM) abolished the inhibitory effects of ME on evoked IPSCs and EPSCs. In contrast, 4‐AP only partially blocked the actions of baclofen. These results suggest that opioids inhibit inhibitory synaptic transmission in the STN through the activation of presynaptic μ‐ and δ‐ receptors. In contrast, inhibition of excitatory synaptic inputs to the STN occurs through the activation of only μ‐receptors. Both inhibitions may be mediated by blockade of voltage‐dependent potassium conductance.