bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Local Chemistry and Disorder in Synthetic and Natural α-Al2O3Materials by X-ray Absorption Near-Edge Structure Spectroscopy
Authors: Mottana Annibale , Murata Takatoshi , Marcelli Augusto , Della Ventura Giancarlo , Cibin Giannantonio , Wu Ziyu , Tessadri Richard
Published: July 2004

X-ray absorption fine spectra at the AlKedge were measured experimentally and calculated theoreticallyviathe multiple-scattering formalism for chemically pure and physically perfect synthetic α-Al2O3(α-alumina), natural ruby/sapphire (corundum) and a series of artificial corundums produced for technical purposes and used as geochemical standards. The AlK-edge spectra differ, despite the identical coordination (short-range arrangement) assumed by O around Al, and vary slightly in relation to the slightly different chemistries of the materials (substitutional defects) as well as on account of the location taken by foreign atoms in the structural lattices (positional defects). A quantitative treatment of the observed changes is made in terms of short-range distortion of the coordination polyhedron and of medium- to long-range modifications in the overall structure, both induced by substitutions. In some technical corundums, the impurities of admixed β-alumina, where Al is both in fourfold and sixfold coordination, produce another small but detectable effect on AlKedges. Therefore, XAFS spectroscopy proves its potential for both measuring a light element such as Al and detecting minor coordination changes and dilute substitutions (∼1–3 wt% as oxide) of the absorber by other atoms, at least under the favourable conditions occurring in this system.
RES2INS: a graphical interface for theSHELXprogram suite
Authors: Barbour Leonard J. , Atwood Jerry L.
Published: July 2004

RES2INSruns under the MS-DOS operating system and allows the user to view graphically the results of successiveSHELXstructure solution and refinement runs. In addition, the structural model can be edited in a user-friendly manner and these changes can be carried through to a newSHELXinstruction file. The program is menu driven and extensive use is made of the mouse for the facilitation of operations on individual atoms.
An inexpensive X-ray imaging device for use in camera/diffractometer alignment
Authors: Wood I. G. , Woods P. A.
Published: July 2004

A simple and inexpensive system for producing video images of collimated X-ray beams is described and is suitable for use as an alignment tool.
A New Algorithm for Space-Group Determination
Authors: Hannemann A. , Hundt R. , Schön J. C. , Jansen M.
Published: July 2004

An important part of the crystallographic description of crystal structures, whether they belong to synthesized compounds or have been generated by computer, is the assignment of the correct space group. Since this task often proves to be highly nontrivial, we have developed an algorithm which determines the space group and the transformation to the standard setting of a given crystal structure, where no restrictions are placed on the original description of the structure.
CIF Applications. X. Automatic Construction of CIF Input Functions:CifSieve
Authors: Hester J. R. , Okamura F. P.
Published: July 2004

A software package for reading a list of CIF data into user-specified variable names in the DDL domain dictionary is described. The customized function generated by this process provides detailed error reporting and may be called from C or Fortran programs. The package is small, simple to install and fast. It runs on variants of the Unix operating system that have the following utilities available: Bison/Yacc, Flex, Perl and C.
A Microfocus X-ray Tube Used with Focusing Collimators
Authors: Arndt U. W. , Long J. V. P. , Duncumb P.
Published: July 2004

The design and performance are described of a low-power copper-target X-ray tube with an elongated focus foreshortened to a diameter between 10 and 20 µm. The tube is designed for use with a specularly reflecting ellipsoidal mirror placed between 10 and 20 mm from the source and focusing the X-rays onto the sample, which may be 600 mm distant. The design maximizes the solid angle of collection of the emitted X-rays and thus achieves a high intensity at the sample. The electron beam, of circular cross section, from the gun is focused by an axial magnetic lens and then drawn out by a quadrupole lens to form an elongated spot on the target which is viewed at a small take-off angle. The limits imposed on the maximum intensity at the specimen by aberrations in the lens and by the permissible power dissipation in the target are discussed. The observed intensity is in reasonable agreement with the calculated intensity; it is comparable with that achieved with nonfocusing X-ray optics used with conventional X-ray tubes operated at a power more than 100 times as great.
Does diet protect against Parkinson's disease? Part 2 – Fat
Authors: Joanna Brown Isabella
Published: July 2004

Parkinson's disease (PD) affects up to one in ten of those over 80 and is currently incurable. Much current research focus on the preclinical period of damage and it is believed that diet may affect the development of the disease. This paper is the second in a series on diet and PD and outlines the effect dietary fat may have on disease prevalence. Initial dietary analysis studies indicated that fat intake appeared to be associated with raised incidences of PD, this probably being due to animal rather than vegetable fat. Results indicated that animal fat was associated with an up to fivefold increased risk of PD whereas vegetable fat did not appear to affect incidence. More recent evidence questions this finding, as, whilst a similar trend exists, the statistical significance is not strong. Likewise the study methodology is all retrospective and could introduce significant recall bias. Nonetheless, it would be recommended that individuals at risk of PD should alter their fat intake in favour of vegetable fat, whilst reducing overall levels in line with healthy eating guidelines.
Nutritional aspects of breast milk
Authors: Sarkar S.
Published: July 2004

An attempt has been made to appraise the nutritional uniqueness of breast milk for infants. Colostrum, being rich in nutritional attributes, must be offered to infants after birth. Advantages proclaimed by breast milk are better digestibility, absorption, intestinal and brain development and protection of children from getting over‐weight. Feeding of fresh breast milk rather than stored or boiled milk is suggested to avoid nutritional losses. Human milk does not completely satisfy the nutritional requirement of infants over three months old and is required to be supplemented with solid foods. Technological innovations made in commercial infant milk powder have not been able to meet the critical nutritional requirements of infants. Since no formulae can duplicate breast milk completely, governmental regulations therefore should stress the importance of breast feeding.
Building social capital through action learning: an insight into the entrepreneur
Authors: Taylor David W. , Jones Oswald , Boles Kevin
Published: July 2004

According to Woolcock, social capital can be defined as the “norms and networks facilitating collective action for mutual benefit”. Furthermore, Gabbay and Leenders suggest that social capital offers some potential for integrating the proliferation of network research that has been developed over the last 30 years. Examines an innovatory partnership between Manchester Metropolitan University Business School (MMUBS) and a number of agencies including the Prince's Trust to provide skills to entrepreneurs from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. The New Entrepreneur Scholarship Scheme (NESS) was the result of an initiative by the Chancellor Gordon Brown to encourage higher education institutes to make a larger contribution to the UK's entrepreneurial culture. MMUBS piloted the first NESS programme for 18 nascent entrepreneurs. It was decided to adopt an “action‐learning” approach concentrating on the development of a realistic business idea as well as creating a supportive environment within the group. This intervention has aided NESS participants by building and strengthening networks that become the basis of their social capital.
Problematising “education” and “training” in the Scottish sport and fitness, play and outdoor sectors
Authors: Foley M. , Frew M. , McGillivray D. , McIntosh A. , McPherson G.
Published: July 2004

Sets out the issues peculiar to the Scottish workforce in sport and fitness, play and the outdoor sectors. Provides an exploration of the development of vocational education in the form of sector skills training for these sectors in opposition to that formal education provided at further and higher education level. Draws on empirical research gathered as part of a report produced on each of the above sectors and written by the above authors. The report was supported by the Scottish Skills Fund in a grant to SPRITO, the national training organisation for these sectors. Although labour market intelligence suggests there are various skills shortages in these sectors and a lack of qualified personnel, the tension between the role of formal education and vocational work‐based learning qualifications is palpable. Solutions to apparent incommensurability of the two positions are offered, designed to ensure that these sectors achieve competitive advantage from a workforce that is both competent and reflective in their work practice.
The importance of personal and professional leadership
Authors: Mastrangelo Angelo , Eddy Erik R. , Lorenzet Steven J.
Published: July 2004

Organizational viability depends in part on effective leadership. Effective leaders engage in both professional leadership behaviors (e.g. setting a mission, creating a process for achieving goals, aligning processes and procedures) and personal leadership behaviors (e.g. building trust, caring for people, acting morally). A model of professional and personal leadership's impact on willing cooperation was developed and tested. Respondents provided perceptions of the leadership of their organizations and reported the extent to which they willingly cooperate with their organization's leadership. Perceptions of “organizational” leadership as opposed to individual leaders were measured. The direct effects of personal and professional leadership on willing cooperation were examined. Personal leadership was also examined as a mediator of professional leadership's impact on willing cooperation. Results revealed support for a mediated model. Specifically, professional leadership was related to the presence of willing cooperation (β=0.44) and personal leadership was related to the presence of willing cooperation (β=0.71). Finally, following a strategy developed by Baron and Kenny, personal leadership was shown to be a mediator of the relationship between professional leadership and the presence of willing cooperation. Limitations as well as research and practical implications are discussed.
Distributive justice moderating the effects of self‐sacrificial leadership
Authors: De Cremer David , van Dijke Marius , Bos Arjan
Published: July 2004

This study examined the interactive effect of distributive justice and leader self‐sacrifice on employees' organizational commitment and autocratic leadership perceptions (ALP). We propose that positive leadership styles like self‐sacrifice will have a stronger impact on employees' attitudes and judgments when organizational outcomes are perceived and experienced as unfavorable or more negative. One such outcome that may turn out unfavorable is distributive justice. Findings indeed showed that leader self‐sacrifice positively influenced organizational commitment and negatively ALP, but only when distributive justice was low (i.e. perceptions of unfair outcomes).
An XML‐based real‐time quality measurement scheme
Authors: Lau H.C.W. , Chan F.T.S. , Fung Richard , Wong Christina W.Y.
Published: July 2004

Attempts to introduce a quality measurement scheme (QMS) that is able to assess the immediate feedback of customers globally in real time, followed by a data mining process, which is an interactive process that involves assembling the data into a format conducive to producing a multi‐dimensional analysis using an online analytical processing (OLAP) approach. In addition, an XML schema, which provides a universal syntax to facilitate the exchange of data, is used in the design of the QMS to support the data mining process. To validate the feasibility of QMS in real industrial situations, a case example is covered, showing promising test results based on the proposed scheme.
Empirical exploration for a product data management (PDA) system at a major telecommunications firm
Authors: Smith Alan D.
Published: July 2004

Product data management (PDM) is an essential tool that assists engineers and others manage both engineering data and the product development process. This study aims to evaluate the advantages and justify the implementation a PDM system at the broadband wireless group (BWG) of a major telecommunications firm located in Pittsburgh, PA. Examines results of previous PDM implementations and obtains primary data via a department staff survey regarding time spent searching for product or part information, product development cycle time, and information exchange or sharing. Illustrates that PDM implementations have led to significant improvement in all facets of product design, documentation, introduction, manufacturing, and support. These improvements will result in an increase in design reuse and a decrease in product development costs and the number of engineering changes.
Optimising value and quality in general practice within the primary health care sector through relationship marketing: a conceptual framework
Authors: Bansal Manjit K.
Published: July 2004

Discusses the rationale of applying relationship marketing and service quality concepts within the primary health care sector. The use of relational strategies in general practice, by modelling the relationships between practitioners and patients from a marketing perspective, could potentially lead to sustained high quality service being provided, and to more efficient use of resources. This essentially conceptually focused paper addresses an area that has not yet been researched in detail, and furthers understanding of the relationships that facilitate exchange within general practice and service delivery in non‐profit, resource‐constrained conditions. Deeper understanding of the needs and expectations of patients and the way these can be delivered by general practice can only lead to improvements for all parties involved. The relationship marketing paradigm presents itself as a potentially exciting way of addressing issues associated with ensuring that the highest level of quality is delivered in this area of the UK National Health Service.
What's important in choosing a primary care physician: an analysis of consumer response
Authors: Razzouk Nabil , Seitz Victoria , Webb Janet Marie
Published: July 2004

Given the growth of health maintenance organizations and preferred physician organizations, the purpose of this study was to determine the salient factors considered when choosing a primary care physician. A list of informational items about physicians not normally included in provider directories but which were indicated by the literature to be important were included in the survey instrument. Employees of a major state university in a south‐western state were surveyed. Results indicated that at the point of selection, the degree of patient satisfaction with the quality of care received and the accessibility of the physician were the two most relevant factors that impacted the choice of a physician. Other factors considered important included interpersonal skills and competence.
Measuring asthma patient satisfaction in Sweden using partial least squares
Authors: Pilman Eva , Ovanfors Anna , Brun Johan , Karlsson Göran , Prütz Christin , Westlund Anders
Published: July 2004

Examines the relationships between different aspects involved in asthma treatment. Analyses each aspect's impact on overall patient satisfaction with asthma treatment. Also studies how outcome variables such as compliance with physician's recommendations, health‐related quality of life and resource use are affected by the degree of patient satisfaction. The results refer to asthma patients as a group but not necessarily to each patient as an individual. The statistical technique applied for this analysis is partial least squares. Tests the suggested generic model on 599 respondents from a questionnaire survey. The structure of the suggested model is well supported by the data.
Workaholism among Australian women psychologists: antecedents and consequences
Authors: Burke Ronald J. , Oberklaid Fay , Burgess Zena
Published: July 2004

This research considered potential antecedents and consequences of workaholism in a sample of 324 female Australian psychologists. Three workaholism types were compared based on measures developed by Spence and Robbins. Data were collected using self‐report questionnaires completed anonymously. Antecedents included personal and work situation characteristics, a measure of personal beliefs and fears and a measure of organizational values supporting work‐personal life imbalance. Consequences included measures of validating job behaviors, work outcomes, psychological health and extra‐work satisfactions. The three workaholism types differed in personal beliefs and fears, work addicts (WAs) scoring higher than work enthusiasts (WEs). WAs indicated less job and career satisfaction than both WEs and enthusiastic addicts (EAs) and lower future career prospects than did EAs. WAs also reported lower emotional health than did WEs. The workaholism types were similar on extra work satisfactions. Each workaholism type also worked similar hours per week as well. These findings validate previous conclusions indicating similar findings for both men and women.
Incorporating WS‐Security into a Web services‐based portal
Authors: Lim Billy B.L. , Sun Yan , Vila Joaquin
Published: July 2004

Software reuse and systems interoperability have been the primary goals of many IT organizations as a means to curb software cost. While there were spots of success over the years, the state of the industry with respect to reuse and interoperability is still lagging. Two main reasons are: lack of standards and security barriers imposed on many software systems. Web service, a self‐describing service that can easily be consumed over the Web, is the latest trend in the industry to address the problems identified above. Based on XML and HTTP, Web services make it possible for involved parties across networks to communicate and produce/consume a service in a uniform manner. This paper describes the incorporation of Web services security (WS‐Security) into a project that integrates Web services into a Web‐based college admission portal system. With the incorporation of WS‐Security, the project showcases how the aforementioned problems together with security issues can be addressed using some of the burgeoning Web services technologies.
RECOT: an expert system for the reduction of environmental cost in the textile industry
Authors: Metaxiotis Kostas
Published: July 2004

Environmental legislation and its enforcement has undoubtedly forced the textile industry to be rather cautious in selecting the appropriate processes and equipment. The most efficient, economic and minimal environmental pollution processing methods will be increasingly demanded throughout the 1990s. However, the majority of the textile industry consists of small and medium enterprises, where the lack of expertise on the use of best available techniques leads to levels of operation far away from the optimal. An expert system for a priori economic evaluation of potential interventions in the textile manufacturing processes and equipment is necessary to support decision making in the management level. This paper presents such an expert system, designed and implemented in four stages: formal description of the key factors that affect the dyeing process in the textile industry, development of models for the representation of relevant information, development of models for the representation of knowledge and integration of the above‐mentioned models in a unified information system that supports the decision‐making process in the management of textile enterprises.
An exploration of wireless computing risks
Authors: Bahli Bouchaib , Benslimane Younes
Published: July 2004

Wireless computing, as a way of providing mobile services, has been growing steadily during the past few years. While wireless communications offer organizations and users many benefits such as portability, flexibility, increased productivity, and lower installation costs; on the other hand, risks inherent and exacerbated by wireless connectivity are widely reported, wherein networks are open to intruders who may cause unwanted consequences to an organization's information resources. Hence, understanding these risks will help protect against unforeseen threats, delays and costs. This paper aims at the development of a taxonomy for wireless computing risks. Six levels are identified including risks associated with the users, mobile devices, wireless networks, wireless applications, the Internet and the corporate gateway. The findings show that there is a need for systematic studies on wireless risk assessment and management. The implications of these findings for both researchers and practitioners are discussed.
Enhancing Web privacy and anonymity in the digital era
Authors: Gritzalis Stefanos
Published: July 2004

This paper presents a state‐of‐the‐art review of the Web privacy and anonymity enhancing security mechanisms, tools, applications and services, with respect to their architecture, operational principles and vulnerabilities. Furthermore, to facilitate a detailed comparative analysis, the appropriate parameters have been selected and grouped in classes of comparison criteria, in the form of an integrated comparison framework. The main concern during the design of this framework was to cover the confronted security threats, applied technological issues and users' demands satisfaction. GNUnet's Anonymity Protocol (GAP), Freedom, Hordes, Crowds, Onion Routing, Platform for Privacy Preferences (P3P), TRUSTe, Lucent Personalized Web Assistant (LPWA), and Anonymizer have been reviewed and compared. The comparative review has clearly highlighted that the pros and cons of each system do not coincide, mainly due to the fact that each one exhibits different design goals and thus adopts dissimilar techniques for protecting privacy and anonymity.
Genetic algorithms
Authors: Grupe Fritz H. , Jooste Simon
Published: July 2004

Describes one of the newest forms of artificial intelligence being applied to the solution of business problems – the genetic algorithm (GA). GAs are useful when a problem has multiple solutions, some of which are better than others. Unlike deterministic, linear and non‐linear optimization models, GAs test a variety of solutions and, through an evolving process, attempt to find the best solution through processes that parallel the metaphors of survival of the fittest, genetic crossover, mutation and natural selection.
ICT‐enabled collectivity as a positive rural business strategy
Authors: Galloway Laura , Mochrie Robbie , Deakins David
Published: July 2004

This paper examines the development of Internet‐based, virtual business forums and their potential for overcoming some of the difficulties faced by business owners in rural areas. Rural environments provide challenges for business owners due to limited local markets and limited access to resources. The paper examines the success of collective action by business owners in rural environments in Scotland to establish Internet‐based business forums that seek to meet such challenges. Using case study methodology, the paper finds variable experiences and proposes a model of the process of collective action.
Developing criteria for knowing and learning at work: towards context‐based assessment
Authors: Poikela Esa
Published: July 2004

Traditional assessment is based on perceiving and measuring knowledge possession and practical performance. This kind of assessment provides limited information about the capability of the learner to develop as a professional and to learn at work. In a typical skill test situation the teachers estimate how well the students know knowledge content and the work supervisors appraise how they perform in practice. However, reflective and social knowing are weakly assessed because of the problems with tacit and potential knowledge. Context‐based assessment requires that situational and contextual factors of knowing, and the social, reflective, cognitive processes of learning are considered carefully. The article reports a construction of a set of assessment criteria and piloting it in a field of vocational education. Carefully defined observation units and optimal compiled criteria are the key factors for understanding and improving the assessment practices.
The effects of epistemological beliefs on workplace learning
Authors: Bauer Johannes , Festner Dagmar , Gruber Hans , Harteis Christian , Heid Helmut
Published: July 2004

Epistemological beliefs are fundamental assumptions about the nature of knowledge and learning. Research in university contexts has shown that they affect the ways and results of student learning. This article transfers the concept of epistemological beliefs on workplace learning. The basic assumption is that employees' epistemological beliefs affect whether they perceive their workplace as learning environments. A study was conducted in which the interrelation of employees' epistemological beliefs with their appraisal of the workplace as supportive for learning was investigated. Additionally, the role of professional hierarchical levels concerning work‐related epistemological beliefs was analyzed. No significant interrelation between epistemological beliefs and workplace appraisal was found. Groups from different professional hierarchical levels did not differ in their workplace appraisal. Consequences about future research about the role of epistemological for workplace learning are discussed.
Variability in nomenclature used for nevi with architectural disorder and cytologic atypia (microscopically dysplastic nevi) by dermatologists and dermatopathologists
Authors: Shapiro Michael , Chren Mary‐Margaret , Levy Ross M. , Elder David E. , LeBoit Philip E. , Mihm Martin C. , Margolis David J. , Gimotty Phyllis A. , Ming Michael E.
Published: July 2004

Background:  Although a nevus with the microscopic features of a ‘dysplastic nevus’ is commonly seen, the nomenclature used to describe such a lesion has been thought to be inconsistent. A 1992 National Institutes of Health (NIH) Consensus Conference sought to unify nomenclature and suggested that the term ‘nevus with architectural disorder’ be used along with a comment on melanocytic atypia.

Methods:  We performed a cross‐sectional mail survey to determine preferred terminology as well as the level of adherence to the NIH‐recommended nomenclature. All 856 active members of the American Society of Dermatopathology (ASDP) and 1100 (13.0%) of the 8471 active members of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) were surveyed.

Results:  Five hundred and thirty‐three ASDP members and 483 AAD members who fulfilled eligibility criteria completed the questionnaire. The term ‘dysplastic nevus’ was favored by the largest number of responders (favored by 39.1% of ASDP members and 62.3% of AAD members), while the 1992 NIH Consensus Conference‐recommended terminology was the second most popular term (25.3% of ASDP and 15.1% of AAD members). Dermatopathologists (OR = 1.9, p = 0.0001) and those who had dual training in dermatology and dermatopathology (OR = 1.6, p = 0.02 for ASDP members; OR = 2.3, p = 0.02 for AAD members) were more likely to adhere to the 1992 NIH Consensus Conference nomenclature.

Conclusions:  Despite attempts to unify nomenclature for microscopically dysplastic nevi through the NIH Consensus Conference, wide variation in terminology persists.
Pilomatricoma with a bullous appearance
Authors: Yiqun Jiang , Jianfang Sun
Published: July 2004

Background:  Pilomatricoma is a benign, cutaneous neoplasm with differentiation toward hair matrix. The tumor is usually a deep‐seated, solitary, firm nodule with overlying normal epidermis. Pilomatricoma with a bullous appearance is very rare.

Methods:  A 16‐year‐old Chinese girl with a soft, purplish, translucent bulla on the left shoulder for 6 months and a nodule underlying the bulla is described.

Results:  The histopathologic findings were consistent with pilomatricoma. There was extraordinary dilation of lymphatic vessels in the overlying dermis, which explains the clinical bullous appearance. The surrounding dermis had an edematous appearance. A Verhoeff–van Gieson stain disclosed the marked reduction of the elastic fibers, and an alcian blue stain was negative.

Conclusions:  The patient is diagnosed as bullous variant of pilomatricoma.
Differential regulation of K+ channels in Arabidopsis epidermal and stelar root cells
Authors: DIATLOFF E. , GEIGER D. , SHANG L. , HEDRICH R. , ROBERTS S. K.
Published: July 2004

The patch clamp technique was applied to protoplasts isolated from the epidermis and pericycle of Arabidopsis roots and their plasma membrane currents investigated. In the whole cell configuration, all protoplasts from the epidermis exhibited depolarization‐activated time‐dependent outwardly rectifying (OR) currents whereas OR currents were present in only 50% of cells from the pericycle. The properties of the OR currents in the epidermis and pericycle were compared with respect to their selectivity, pharmacology and gating. The time‐dependent activation kinetics, selectivity and sensitivity to extracellular tetraethyl ammonium of the OR current in each cell type were not significantly different. The reversal potential (Erev) of the OR currents indicated that they were primarily due to the movement of K+. However, the gating properties of the OR currents from the epidermis differed markedly from those exhibited in the pericycle. Although both cell types displayed OR currents with voltage‐dependent gating modulated in a potassium‐dependent fashion [i.e. the activation threshold (V0.5) was displaced to more positive voltages as extracellular K+ increased], the OR currents in the epidermis also displayed voltage‐independent gating by extracellular K+ which dramatically regulated current density. In the present study, reducing extracellular K+ activity from 40 to 0.87 mm reduced the OR current density in epidermal cells by approximately 80%. The chord conductance of the OR current saturated as a function of extracellular K+ and could be fitted with a Michaelis–Menten function to yield a binding constant (Km) of 10.5 mm. The ability of other monovalent cations to substitute for K+‐gating of the OR currents was also investigated and shown to exhibit a relative sequence of K+ ≥ Rb+ > Cs+ > Na+ ≥ Li+ (Eisenmann sequence IV) with respect to efficacy of gating. Furthermore, single channel recordings demonstrated that channel activity rather than the single channel conductance was modulated by extracellular K+. In contrast, OR current density in the pericycle was largely independent of extracellular K+. It is suggested that the contrasting gating properties of the K+ channels in the epidermis and pericycle reflect their different physiological roles, particularly with respect to their role in K+ (nutrient) transport from the soil solution to the shoot.
A root trait accounting for the extreme phosphorus sensitivity of Hakea prostrata (Proteaceae)
Authors: SHANE M. W. , SZOTA C. , LAMBERS H.
Published: July 2004

Proteaceae are adapted to acquire P from nutrient‐impoverished soils; many function at very low leaf P levels, but are killed by P fertilization. Phosphorus toxicity develops at a remarkably low external P concentration. Previous studies have described P toxicity in Proteaceae, but the physiological basis for it remained unclear. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the physiological basis of P toxicity in Hakea prostrata R. Br. (Proteaceae). Triticum aestivum L. (Gramineae), Medicago truncatula Gaertn., Lupinus albus L. (both Fabaceae) and Hakea prostrata R.Br. were grown in solution at a range of P concentrations (0–1000 mmol P m−3), and determined net P‐uptake rates at 5 (all species) and 50 mmol P m−3 (H. prostrata only). With the exception of H. prostrata, net P‐uptake rates were fastest for plants grown without added P. Down‐regulation occurred for T. aestivum, M. truncatula and L. albus when the P concentration during growth was increased from 0 to 0.8 mmol P m−3, whereas in H. prostrata rates decreased only for plants grown at 10 mmol P m−3 or more. The leaf [P] at which P toxicity occurred in H. prostrata exceeded 10 mg g−1 dry matter, similar to that for crop species. The low capacity to reduce P uptake in response to increased supply offers a physiological explanation for the extreme sensitivity to P supply in H. prostrata, and possibly other Proteaceae.
New evidence for a role of vessel‐associated cells and phloem in the rapid xylem refilling of cavitated stems of Laurus nobilis L.
Authors: SALLEO S. , LO GULLO M. A. , TRIFILÒ P. , NARDINI A.
Published: July 2004

Xylem recovery from embolism was studied in Laurus nobilis L. stems that were induced to cavitate by combining negative xylem pressure potentials (PX = −1.1 MPa) with positive air pressures (PC) applied using a pressure collar. Xylem refilling was measured by recording the percentage loss of hydraulic conductance (PLC) with respect to the maximum 2 min, 20 min and 15 h after pressure release. Sodium orthovanadate (an inhibitor of many ATP‐ases) strongly inhibited xylem refilling while fusicoccin (a stimulator of the plasma membrane H+‐ATPase) promoted complete embolism reversal. So, the refilling process was interpreted to result from energy‐dependent mechanisms. Stem girdling induced progressively larger inhibition to refilling the nearer to the embolized stem segment phloem was removed. The starch content of wood parenchyma was estimated as percentages of ray and vasicentric cells with high starch content with respect to the total, before and after stem embolism was induced. A closely linear positive relationship was found to exist between recovery from PLC and starch hydrolysis. This, was especially evident in vasicentric cells. A mechanism for xylem refilling based upon starch to sugar conversion and transport into embolized conduits, assisted by phloem pressure‐driven radial mass flow is proposed.
Locomotor Ability and Wariness in Yellow‐Bellied Marmots
Authors: Blumstein Daniel T. , Runyan Andrea , Seymour Mona , Nicodemus Amanda , Ozgul Arpat , Ransler Findley , Im Soyeon , Stark Tricia , Zugmeyer Claire , Daniel Janice C.
Published: July 2004

Animals employ a variety of behaviors to reduce or manage predation risk. Often, these are studied in isolation, but selection may act on packages of behavior that are referred to as behavioral syndromes. We focused on yellow‐bellied marmots (Marmota flaviventris) and examined three commonly studied antipredator behaviors. We fitted general linear models to explain variation in maximum running speed, time allocated to vigilance and foraging during bouts of foraging, and flight initiation distance (FID). Marmot maximum running speed was influenced by the substrate run across; marmots ran fastest across dirt or low vegetation and slowest across stones or talus. Incline and several other variables shown to affect running speed in other marmot species failed to explain significant variation in yellow‐bellied marmots. From these results we expected marmots to be sensitive to substrate while foraging, but insensitive to incline. However, time allocated to foraging was affected by incline but not by substrate. In bouts of foraging observed in different habitats, and on different inclines, more time was allocated to foraging and less to vigilance on steep slopes and less on level ground. Substrate influenced FID. Marmots in tall vegetation were less tolerant of an approaching person than were those in shorter vegetation. Finally, we found significant correlations between the residuals from the maximum running speed model and the residuals from the time allocated to vigilance and foraging models. We found a tendency for marmots that ran slower than predicted to be less vigilant while foraging. We also found that relatively slow marmots engaged in more active foraging and less vigilance during foraging bouts. This finding suggests a ‘locomotor ability‐wariness while foraging’ syndrome. It also suggests that vulnerable individuals minimize their exposure while foraging.
An Unusual Feature at the N‐terminal end of the Coat Protein of Maize dwarf mosaic virus isolated in Hungary
Authors: Tóbiás I. , Palkovics L.
Published: July 2004

Maize dwarf mosaic is the most widespread virus disease affecting corn production in Hungary. In attempts to identify the causal virus by test plant reactions, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), only Maize dwarf mosaic virus (MDMV) was detected. To further characterize Hungarian isolates of MDMV, one isolate from each of the sweet corn varieties Dallas, Royalty and GH23‐85 was selected for sequence analysis of its coat protein (CP) gene. The three Hungarian isolates shared CP amino acid sequence similarities of 95–98% not only with one another but also with MDMV isolates from other countries. However, the N‐terminus of the CP of the ‘Dallas’ isolate was unusual in containing a stretch of 13 additional amino acids. This is the first report of variation in the size of the N‐terminus of the MDMV CP.
The Relationship between Branch Canker and Twig Dieback of Tea Caused by Macrophoma theicola
Authors: Thseng F. M. , Chen J. S. , Ko W. H.
Published: July 2004

During a recent survey of the inoculum source of twig dieback of tea caused by Macrophoma theicola, symptoms of canker were observed on branches of a number of tea cultivars. Most cankered areas contained minute black pycnidia of M. theicola, which ooze white conidial masses in strands when incubated under moist conditions. Macrophoma theicola was also consistently isolated from cankered branches. When healthy branches of tea were inoculated with conidia of M. theicola obtained from diseased branches, cankers similar to those occurring in nature developed in the inoculated areas, and M. theicola was re‐isolated from all experimentally induced cankers. Isolates derived from conidia of M. theicola also caused dieback on healthy tea twigs, indicating that fruiting bodies on the cankered branches are the main inoculum source of twig dieback of tea. There was a positive correlation between the severity of twig dieback and the prevalence of branch canker among the tea cultivars surveyed. Six of the cultivars surveyed were highly resistant to M. theicola.
Spreading of ESFY Phytoplasmas in Stone Fruit in Catalonia (Spain)
Authors: Torres E. , Martín M. P. , Paltrinieri S. , Vila A. , Masalles R. , Bertaccini A.
Published: July 2004

A survey was carried out in nine stone fruit commercial orchards located in Barcelona province where plum and apricot trees of different cultivars showing European stone fruit yellows (ESFY) symptoms were present. A 4‐year survey with visual inspection of symptoms in one apricot orchard showed a rather high ESFY disease spread, also in a Japanese plum plantation newly infected plants were detected every year in a similar rate (about 2%). All the inspected symptomatic trees were polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tested and ESFY phytoplasma identity was confirmed by restriction fragment length polymorphism analyses and sequencing of ribosomal DNA amplification products. In apricot plantation the detection of ESFY phytoplasma was also tested on 69 asymptomatic trees sampled in summer 2002. The nested PCR with 16SrX group‐specific primers allowed detection of ESFY phytoplasmas in 50% of the trees that indeed showed symptoms by the next winter (2003). The molecular detection of ESFY phytoplasma in asymptomatic apricot trees indicates the risk of maintaining phytoplasma foci in the fields where eradication is based only on visual inspection.
Partial Molecular Characterization of a Czech Isolate of Grapevine leafroll‐associated virus 3
Authors: Komínek P. , Bryxiová M. , Glasa M.
Published: July 2004

Grapevine leafroll‐associated virus 3 (GLRaV‐3) is an important pathogen of grapevine in the Czech Republic. A Czech isolate was studied at the molecular level in order to extend data on molecular variability of the virus from the central European region. Three conserved regions (genes encoding the RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase, the heat shock protein 70 and the 55 kDa protein) were amplified using reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction, sequenced and compared with related available sequences. On the sequenced regions, the Czech isolate revealed more than 99% nucleotide and amino acid identity with the published full‐length sequence of a North American GLRaV‐3 isolate and a similarly high identity with available partial GLRaV‐3 sequences of isolates from different parts of the world. The phylogenetic position of the new and already characterized GLRaV‐3 isolates within the Ampelovirus genus is discussed.
IR as Practical Philosophy: Defining a ‘Classical Approach’
Authors: Shapcott Richard
Published: July 2004

This article addresses the centrality of normativity to IR (International Relations) by engaging in an investigation of the meaning of a ‘classical’ approach (Bull 1969). It demonstrates how a classical approach, properly understood, might provide common ground for IR theorists. The substantive argument is that IR can benefit from reflection on the classical understanding of the relationship between theory and practice, and in particular on the understanding of this relationship provided by philosophical hermeneutics. Philosophical hermeneutics is an approach to the human sciences informed by Aristotle's conception of a practical philosophy. A practical philosophy in the classical sense sees theory as a moral and political inquiry involving a body of knowledge and a philosophy of practice engaging in reflection upon the nature of the good life and the means to achieve it.
Presidential Attribution as an Agency of Prime Ministerial Critique in a Parliamentary Democracy: The Case of Tony Blair
Authors: Foley Michael
Published: July 2004

The allusion to presidentialism in relation to the status, role and meaning of a prime minister's position is almost invariably skewed towards positive, purposive and expansive interpretations of strong executive authority. This study examines the negative and critical dimensions of the presidential attribution, and analyses the nature of its appeal as a device for organising and rationalising political dissent. The incidence and conditions of its usage in political argument during Tony Blair's premiership are reviewed. As a consequence, seven strands of usage are identified in the selection of presidentialism as a focus of opposition. In assessing the relative strengths and weaknesses of the presidential critique, the analysis not only shows its utility in drawing upon other sources of complaint, but also demonstrates its limitations in the delegitimation of executive authority.
Mad Cows and Mad Money: Problems of Risk in the Making and Understanding of Policy
Authors: Smith Martin J.
Published: July 2004

Risk is now being widely used both as a way of understanding policy and decision-making, and as a way of making decisions. However, there is little agreement on how risk is defined. For some risk is objective and measurable, while for others risk is subjective. What this article demonstrates is that because risk is a contested concept, it is extremely difficult to use it either as a tool for analysing government or for making decisions. In their different ways both scientists and social theorists assume an objectivity to risk. However, risk is not objective but contingent, and depends on decisions that are often related to issues of power. Consequently both governments and analysts are caught between matching subjective and political notions of risk with objective risk assessment. Two case studies are used, BSE in cows and British exchange rate policy, to demonstrate the difficulties in using risk as a way of analysing the policy process and for making decisions.
Hearing Voices: Negotiating Representation Claims in Public Deliberation
Authors: Parkinson John
Published: July 2004

The last decade has seen a great amount of experimentation with processes which involve citizens directly in public decision making, in part justified by claims of greater representativeness. However, representation arguments are also used to make cases against direct involvement of citizens, particularly by those with power under existing representative structures like elected officials and interest group leaders. This paper explores those conflicting claims both normatively and empirically, the latter through analysis of secondary materials and interviews with participants in a public debate about hospital reconfiguration in the city of Leicester in early 2000. It categorises different claims, discusses both their normative and practical political strength, with the aim of offering some guidance to political actors trying to negotiate these competing claims.
The Enlightenment Function and Dimensions of Time: Evolutionary Theory and Limits of Privatisation in British Trunk Roads Policy
Authors: Dudley Geoffrey
Published: July 2004

The evolutionary model provides important insights into the causal mechanisms of policy change. This works particularly through the notion that the introduction and success or failure of new ideas is a key element in instigating these policy change processes.

The survival of an idea is also dependent on key temporal and spatial factors. An idea therefore urgently requires a method of propagation in order to reproduce itself. One means of this idea transmission is through the ‘enlightenment function’, whereby an effective policy network may gradually alter the assumptions and idea ‘images' of policy makers over time.

For example, the interrelationships between ideas, established epistemic communities and time emerge as key variables in determining the enlightenment function in implementation arenas. Time emerges as a vital multi-dimensional independent variable, and in one crucial dimension approximates with a state of readiness as outlined in Vickers' appreciative system.

The article employs the case study of the limits of the privatisation idea in British trunk roads policy, and concludes that, even in seeking stability, actors tend to generate unpredictable change.
Beyond Diplomacy? UK Relations with China since 1997
Authors: Breslin Shaun
Published: July 2004

In developing a framework for relations with China since 1997, official UK policy towards China has had two main aims: to develop commercial opportunities for UK companies and to promote ‘positive’ social and political change in China. Although some have argued that this represents a contradictory set of objectives, the counter argument is found in liberal theory. Economic engagement will create a dense network of transnational interactions that will generate political change in China as it becomes deeply enmeshed in the global economy. If we follow the logic of this approach through, then the UK government has transferred much of the power to attain its stated objectives in relations with China from traditional diplomatic agencies to governmental economic agencies. More important, individual companies, whilst pursuing their own commercial activities, are effectively carrying out government policy in relation to China. Thus, the key actors in post-diplomatic relations with China are increasingly non-state economic actors.