bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity of torrential rain events to the sea surface temperature based on high‐resolution numerical forecasts
Authors: Lebeaupin C. , Ducrocq V. , Giordani H.
Published: June 2006

Torrential rains often occur in the western Mediterranean region during the fall season when the Mediterranean Sea is still warm. The Mediterranean Sea acts in moistening and warming the low level of the atmosphere. Then, the southerly to easterly flow that prevails before and during torrential rainfall events, transports the conditionally unstable air toward the coasts where the convection can develop often triggered by a flow interaction with orography. This study examines the sensitivity to the sea surface temperature (SST) of very short range (18–24 hours) high‐resolution (2.4 km) forecasts of heavy precipitation events. Three torrential rainfall events were selected as representative of extreme rainfall events that occurred over southern France: two cases of quasi‐stationary mesoscale convective systems and one other case characterized by a slow moving frontal perturbation. For each case, a number of runs is performed with the MESO‐NH research model using several SST fields differing in their resolution or/and their average value over the Mediterranean basin. Results show that an increase (a decrease) of SST by several degrees, on average, intensifies (weakens) the convection. The convection can even be stopped with strong decrease of SST. Impacts on the stationary behavior of the systems have also been pointed out. A more detailed SST field influences the mesoscale patterns of the sea surface heat fluxes but have almost no significant effect on the convection and the low‐level jets forecast. Eventually, the SST has been allowed to evolve during the runs through the action of the air‐sea interface fluxes, resulting in local effects such as significant cooling of the SST beneath the low‐level jet but almost no impact on the very short range forecasts of heavy precipitation.
Tropical cloud‐top height distributions revealed by the Ice, Cloud, and Land Elevation Satellite (ICESat)/Geoscience Laser Altimeter System (GLAS)
Authors: Dessler A. E. , Palm S. P. , Spinhirne J. D.
Published: June 2006

We analyze cloud‐top height data obtained at tropical latitudes between 29 September and 17 November, 2003, from the Geoscience Laser Altimeter System (GLAS), carried onboard the Ice, Cloud, and Land Elevation Satellite (ICESat). About 66% of the tropical observations show one or more cloud layers. Of those observations that do show a cloud, about half show two or more cloud layers. Maxima in the cloud‐top height distribution occur in the upper troposphere, between 12 and 17 km, and in the lower troposphere, below about 4 km. A less prominent maximum occurs in the midtroposphere, between 6 and 8 km. The occurrence of cloud layers tends to be consistent with the well‐known diurnal cycles of continental and oceanic convection, and we find that cloud layers tend to occur more frequently over land than ocean, except in the lower troposphere, where the opposite is true. A particular emphasis of this paper is the convection that penetrates into the so‐called tropical tropopause layer (TTL). We find more frequent occurrence of thick clouds in the TTL and above the tropopause than other studies, with 3.0% and 19% of the thick and thin cloud observations, respectively, showing a cloud top in the TTL and 0.34% and 3.1% showing a cloud top above the average level of the tropopause. These values are higher than those found in other data sets and suggest that an upward revision of TTL cloud frequency might be necessary. TTL clouds are observed more frequently in the evening than in the morning and more frequently over land than over ocean.
Absorption and scattering in ground‐penetrating radar: Analysis of the Bishop Tuff
Authors: Grimm Robert E. , Heggy Essam , Clifford Stephen , Dinwiddie Cynthia , McGinnis Ronald , Farrell David
Published: June 2006

Ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) signals are attenuated by both absorption and scattering. We performed low‐frequency (<100 MHz) GPR surveys at the Volcanic Tableland of the Bishop (California) Tuff to evaluate the factors that control GPR depth of investigation and to develop insight into the capabilities of such radars for Mars. The subsurface reflection character was very different for two different commercial systems used; together, they revealed both internal welding contacts in the tuff and an abundance of discrete scatterers. Attenuation coefficients were computed from profiles that showed distributed scattering: the semilogarithmic signal decay is directly analogous to seismic coda. The absorption (intrinsic loss) was determined to be ∼1 dB/m from low‐frequency vertical‐electric soundings. The residual attenuation (that is, the attenuation in the absence of absorption) is attributed to scattering. Scattering attenuation of ∼1 dB/m at 25–50 MHz corresponds to mean‐free paths as short as 4 m, a fraction of the two‐way propagation distances of 20–40 m. Therefore the Bishop Tuff is formally a strong scatterer to GPR. The mean‐free path is also comparable to the subsurface radar wavelength in this case, maximizing scattering loss. The scatterers themselves likely originate as welding heterogeneities; contrasts in dielectric constant due to density differences may be supplemented by moisture variations. On Mars, scattering is likely to contribute significant losses to GPR signals in all but the most uniform materials, and unfrozen thin films of water in the lower cryosphere could influence both absorption and scattering.
S‐transform view of geomagnetically induced currents during geomagnetic superstorms
Authors: Pulkkinen Antti , Kataoka Ryuho
Published: June 2006

A novel time‐frequency analysis method (S‐transform) capable of handling noisy non‐stationary signals is applied to study the properties of geomagnetically induced current (GIC) fluctuations in the Finnish natural gas pipeline. New local time‐ and storm phase‐dependent S‐transform spectral properties of auroral region GIC fluctuations during geomagnetic superstorms are reported. More specifically, the S‐transform spectra have two distinct regions containing the most of the spectral power that persisted from storm to storm: main phase‐related wide‐band fluctuations driven possibly by a substorm‐type ionospheric activity centered around the local midnight and recovery phase‐related narrow‐band fluctuations associated with Pc5 range geomagnetic pulsations in the local morning region. Based on this observed “stability”, a new S‐transform‐based statistical approach using, for example, an ensemble of different S‐transform responses for known storms is proposed for GIC prediction.
Stochastic simulation of chemical exchange in two dimensional infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Šanda František , Mukamel Shaul
Published: July 2006

The stochastic Liouville equations are employed to investigate the combined signatures of chemical exchange (two-state jump) and spectral diffusion (coupling to an overdamped Brownian oscillator) in the coherent response of an anharmonic vibration to three femtosecond infrared pulses. Simulations reproduce the main features recently observed in the OD stretch of phenol in benzene.
Select-divide-and-conquer method for large-scale configuration interaction
Authors: Bunge Carlos F. , Carbó-Dorca Ramon
Published: July 2006

A select-divide-and-conquer variational method to approximate configuration interaction (CI) is presented. Given an orthonormal set made up of occupied orbitals (Hartree-Fock or similar) and suitable correlation orbitals (natural or localized orbitals), a large N-electron target space S is split into subspaces S0,S1,S2,…,SR. S0, of dimension d0, contains all configurations K with attributes (energy contributions, etc.) above thresholds T0≡{T0egy,T0etc.}; the CI coefficients in S0 remain always free to vary. S1 accommodates Ks with attributes above T1⩽T0. An eigenproblem of dimension d0+d1 for S0+S1 is solved first, after which the last d1 rows and columns are contracted into a single row and column, thus freezing the last d1 CI coefficients hereinafter. The process is repeated with successive Sj(j⩾2) chosen so that corresponding CI matrices fit random access memory (RAM). Davidson’s eigensolver is used R times. The final energy eigenvalue (lowest or excited one) is always above the corresponding exact eigenvalue in S. Threshold values {Tj;j=0,1,2,…,R} regulate accuracy; for large-dimensional S, high accuracy requires S0+S1 to be solved outside RAM. From there on, however, usually a few Davidson iterations in RAM are needed for each step, so that Hamiltonian matrix-element evaluation becomes rate determining. One μhartree accuracy is achieved for an eigenproblem of order 24×106, involving 1.2×1012 nonzero matrix elements, and 8.4×109 Slater determinants.
Development of intermolecular potentials for predicting transport properties of hydrocarbons
Authors: Gordon Peter A.
Published: July 2006

We explore the ability of a modified form of an n-6 potential to represent transport property data of n-paraffins over a range of temperatures, pressures, and chain lengths. General features of the relationship between the potential form and resulting properties are investigated for methane, where it is shown that the tunable softness of the potential function allows for adjustment of transport properties, through modulation of the magnitude of the density fluctuations, while leaving thermodynamic properties such as liquid density and vapor-liquid coexistence properties essentially unchanged. We tune potential parameters of a united atom model for n-paraffins to viscosity and density data of low molecular weight (C4–C10) species and demonstrate the robust predictive capability of viscosity-temperature-pressure relationships for species up to n-C36.
Evidence of temperature dependent charge migration on conjugated segments in poly-p-phenylene vinylene and single-walled carbon nanotubes composite films
Authors: Mulazzi E. , Perego R. , Wéry J. , Mihut L. , Lefrant S. , Faulques E.
Published: July 2006

We present new results of temperature dependence of photoluminescence spectra carried out on poly-p-phenylene vinylene (PPV) and on PPV composite films with single-walled carbon nanotubes. By performing studies at different temperatures (87 and 300K), we show that a distribution of conjugated PPV segments is needed to interpret experimental data. At the microscopic scale, such a distribution corresponds to the morphological picture of poorly packed short chain segments and well-packed ordered long chain segments. Within this scheme, a new interpretation emerges for explaining the specific behavior of the photoluminescence bands. In particular, the two most intense components of the photoluminescence spectra of PPV thermally converted at 300°C (2.23 and 2.43eV at 300K) change drastically their relative intensity when the observation temperature decreases. This effect is interpreted as due to the inhibition of charge migration to longer segments and to radiative recombination occurring mainly on n=5 conjugated segments.
Logarithmic relaxation in a kinetically constrained model
Authors: Moreno Angel J. , Colmenero Juan
Published: July 2006

We present Monte Carlo simulations on a coarse-grained model for relaxation in binary mixtures. The liquid structure is substituted by a three-dimensional array of cells. A spin variable is assigned to each cell, with values 0 or 1 denoting, respectively, unexcited and excited local states in a mobility field. Change in local mobility (spin flip) is permitted according to kinetic constraints determined by the mobilities of neighboring cells. We introduce two types of cells (“fast” and “slow”) with very different rates for spin flip. Fast cells display anomalous relaxation, characterized by a concave-to-convex crossover in dynamic correlators by changing temperature or composition. At intermediate state points logarithmic relaxation is observed over three time decades. These results display striking analogies with dynamic correlators reported in recent simulations on polymer blends.
Pulsed-field ionization electron spectroscopy and ab initio calculations of copper-diazine complexes
Authors: Wang Xu , Lee Jung Sup , Yang Dong-Sheng
Published: July 2006

Copper complexes of pyrazine (1,4-C4H4N2), pyrimidine (1,3-C4H4N2), and pyridazine (1,2-C4H4N2) are produced in laser-vaporization supersonic molecular beams and studied by pulsed-field ionization zero electron kinetic energy (ZEKE) spectroscopy and second-order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory. Both σ and π complexes are considered by these ab initio calculations; only σ structures are identified in these experiments. Adiabatic ionization energies and metal-ligand vibrational frequencies of the σ complexes are measured from the ZEKE spectra. Metal-ligand bond dissociation energies of these complexes are obtained from a thermochemical cycle. The ionization energies follow the trend of Cu pyridazine (43054cm−1)<Cu pyrimidine (45332cm−1)Cu pyrazine (48.5kJmol−1)∼Cu pyrimidine (46.4kJmol−1). The stronger binding of pyridazine is due to its larger electric dipole moment and possibly bidentate binding.
Impurity-induced phase stabilization of semiconductors
Authors: Dalpian Gustavo M. , Yan Yanfa , Wei Su-Huai
Published: July 2006

We propose an approach to stabilize the cubic zinc-blende (ZB) phase of semiconductor compounds that are usually more stable in the hexagonal wurtzite (WZ) phase. This approach is based on impurity doping and we take advantage of the band offset between the ZB and WZ phases. We show that introduction of donors should stabilize the one with lower conduction band (ZB), whereas holes should stabilize the one with higher valence band (WZ). A mechanism to invert the valence band offset is proposed in order to stabilize the ZB phase through holes. We used GaN, ZnO, and AlN as examples.
Long-wavelength vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser using an electro-optic index modulator with 10nm tuning range
Authors: Levallois C. , Caillaud B. , de Bougrenet de la Tocnaye J.-L. , Dupont L. , Le Corre A. , Folliot H. , Dehaese O. , Loualiche S.
Published: July 2006

We demonstrate an original approach to achieving a tunable 1.55μm vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser. The tunability is based on an electro-optic index modulator using nanosized droplets of liquid crystal as a phase layer. Such an approach can produce a robust and a low-cost device. A 10nm tuning range with less than 170V applied voltage has been demonstrated. The device is formed by a conventional InP-based active region with an epitaxial and a dielectric Bragg mirror. This optically pumped device exhibits an excellent side-mode suppression ratio of higher than 20dB over the whole spectral range.
Wavelength-selective enhancement of the intensity of visible photoluminescence in hydrogen-ion-implanted silicon-on-insulator structures annealed under high pressure
Authors: Tyschenko I. E. , Zhuravlev K. S. , Cherkov A. G. , Popov V. P. , Misiuk A. , Yankov R. A.
Published: July 2006

Characteristic features of the visible photoluminescence (PL) spectra were studied in silicon-on-insulator (SOI) wafers following high-dose (3×1017cm−2) ion implantation of hydrogen and annealing at high hydrostatic pressures. The PL behavior of the SOI material was compared with that of hydrogen-implanted bulk Si. Annealing at a pressure above 6kbars produced a wavelength-selective increase (∼37 times) in the intensity of the visible PL from the implanted SOI structures. The results are explained in terms of the effect of an optical resonant cavity formed between the air/SOI and the Si∕SiO2 interfaces as a result of the high-pressure annealing.
Atomically resolved amplitude modulation dynamic force microscopy with a high-frequency and high-quality factor cantilever
Authors: Kawai Shigeki , Kawakatsu Hideki
Published: July 2006

We demonstrate atomically resolved amplitude modulation ultrahigh vacuum dynamic force microscopy at room temperature. A feasible time response was obtained with 1.8MHz second resonance frequency of a commercially available silicon cantilever while keeping a high mechanical quality factor. Enhanced detection sensitivity due to small amplitude, high mechanical quality factor, and high resonance frequency enabled imaging of the Si(111)-7×7 surface at the attractive region. Three kinds of atomic contrast were obtained with same imaging parameters. Towards fast imaging, a constant amplitude shift image of 128×128pixels with atomic resolution was obtained within 4.75s.
Giant congenital intrapericardial left atrial aneurysm diagnosed by contrast-enhanced computed tomography
Authors: Taori K. , Deshmukh A. , Sanyal R. , Saini T. , Sheorain V. , Rathod J.
Published: June 2006

A left atrial aneurysm is a rare cardiac anomaly. The etiology is usually congenital, but it can also occur as an acquired pathology secondary to mitral valve disease or a degenerative process. We report a case which, on routine PA chest radiography, presented as cardiomegaly with a bulge on the left cardiac contour. Further evaluation by contrast-enhanced computed tomography proved it to be caused by a large left atrial aneurysm.
Potential of diffusion imaging in brain tumors: a review
Authors: Bode M. K. , Ruohonen J. , Nieminen M. T. , Pyhtinen J.
Published: June 2006

Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a method for quantifying the microscopic random motion of water molecules in tissues. Diffusion imaging provides indirect structural information of a kind not available on basic MRI sequences of many pathological conditions. Lately, especially brain tumors have been under active investigation, with numerous papers already published, and their number continues to increase. This review summarizes the heterogeneous and complex research data on diffusion imaging of brain tumors.
Influence of anthropometric parameters and bone size on bone mineral density using volumetric quantitative computed tomography and dual X-ray absorptiometry at the hip
Authors: Guglielmi G. , van Kuijk C. , Li J. , Meta M. D. , Scillitani A. , Lang T. F.
Published: June 2006

Purpose: To evaluate the influence of anthropometric parameters (age, height, and weight) and bone size on bone mineral density (BMD) using volumetric quantitative computed tomography (QCT) and dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in a group of elderly women.

Material and Methods: BMD values were obtained with DXA and QCT at the spine and hip in a cohort of 84 elderly women (mean age 73±6 years). QCT measures included trabecular, integral, and cortical BMD assessed at the hip and spine as well as cross-sectional areas of the mid-vertebrae and proximal femora. Spinal integral and femoral neck BMD measures were well matched to the regions of bone quantified on anteroposterior (AP) spine DXA and the femoral neck region of hip DXA.

Results: When QCT parameters were linearly regressed against body height and weight, only the relationships with weight were found to be statistically significant. Except for cortical BMD at the femoral neck, all BMD and geometric parameters measured from both DXA and QCT showed statistically significant associations with body weight ( r2 = 0.4, 0.0001< P<0.02). The strongest associations with weight were found for DXA Neck (DXA_NECK) and DXA lumbar spine (DXA_LSP) ( r2 = 0.4, P<0.0001).

Conclusion: The relationship of DXA BMD is stronger than QCT BMD with body weight and it encompasses the response of both bone size and density to increasing body mass.
Percutaneous vertebroplasty for patients with osteoporosis: a one-year follow-up
Authors: Chang C. -Y. , Teng M. M. -H. , Wei C. -J. , Luo C. -B. , Chang F. -C.
Published: June 2006

Purpose: To evaluate changes in height and wedge angle of treated vertebral bodies and kyphosis angle 1 year after vertebroplasty.

Material and Methods: We reviewed radiographs of 95 vertebral bodies treated with vertebroplasty in 60 patients with osteoporosis. Only vertebral bodies with imaging evidence of a new fracture or avascular necrosis received vertebroplasty. Images were obtained for evaluation before vertebroplasty (B), within 2 weeks after vertebroplasty (T), and after 1 year (T1).

Results: The mean wedge angle decreased by 5.4° from B to T1. Mean of the anterior, central, and posterior heights of the fractured bodies increased by 12.6%, 9.6%, and 3.1%, respectively, from B to T1. The kyphosis angle improved by 3.2° initially from B to T, but the improvement later disappeared. In 48% of these patients, a new fracture developed after vertebroplasty, and 63% of the fractures were adjacent to a vertebroplasty-treated vertebral body.

Conclusion: The increase in height and wedge angle of the vertebral bodies generally lasted at least 1 year. Improvement in kyphosis angles was lost 1 year after vertebroplasty because new fractures occurred in 48% of these patients. Prevention of new fractures after vertebroplasty remains an important task.
Book Reviews
Authors: Skaane Per
Published: June 2006

Mammography. Guide to Interpreting, Reporting and Auditing Mammographic Images. Re.Co.R.M. By V. Lattanzio and G. Simonetti. Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Heidelberg, New York 2005. ISBN 3-540-20018-5. Hardback. xvi + 280 pages, 400 figures. Price EUR 229.00
Eicosapentapeptide repeats (EPRs): novel repeat proteins specific to flowering plants
Authors: Archak Sunil , Nagaraju Javaregowda
Published: June 2006

In this report, we describe a novel tandem peptide repeat protein, Eicosapentapeptide repeat (EPR), which occurs notably only in flowering plants. The EPRs are characterized by a 25 amino acid repeat unit, X2CX4CX10CX2HGGG, repeated 10 times tandemly. Sequence search revealed that the repeat motif is highly conserved across its occurrence. EPRs are predicted to exist as quasi-globular stable structures owing to highly conserved amino acid positions and potential disulfide bridges. Proteins containing EPRs are predicted to be located in chloroplasts; non-enzymatic and peptide or DNA-binding in molecular function; and they are possibly involved in transcription regulation.

Contact: jnagaraju@cdfd.org.in

Supplementary information: Architecture, identifiers and annotations of EPRs; search parameters, distribution and sequence alignment; 2D structure prediction and disulfide connectivity are provided as pdf files S1–S8, at Bioinformatics online.
GEL: a novel genotype calling algorithm using empirical likelihood
Authors: Nicolae Dan L. , Wu Xiaolin , Miyake Kazuaki , Cox Nancy J.
Published: June 2006

Motivation: Preliminary results on the data produced using the Affymetrix large-scale genotyping platforms show that it is necessary to construct improved genotype calling algorithms. There is evidence that some of the existing algorithms lead to an increased error rate in heterozygous genotypes, and a disproportionately large rate of heterozygotes with missing genotypes. Non-random errors and missing data can lead to an increase in the number of false discoveries in genetic association studies. Therefore, the factors that need to be evaluated in assessing the performance of an algorithm are the missing data (call) and error rates, but also the heterozygous proportions in missing data and errors.

Results: We introduce a novel genotype calling algorithm (GEL) for the Affymetrix GeneChip arrays. The algorithm uses likelihood calculations that are based on distributions inferred from the observed data. A key ingredient in accurate genotype calling is weighting the information that comes from each probe quartet according to the quality/reliability of the data in the quartet, and prior information on the performance of the quartet.

Availability: The GEL software is implemented in R and is available by request from the corresponding author at nicolae@galton.uchicago.edu

Contact:  nicolae@galton.uchicago.edu
Parallel multifactor dimensionality reduction: a tool for the large-scale analysis of gene–gene interactions
Authors: Bush William S. , Dudek Scott M. , Ritchie Marylyn D.
Published: June 2006

Summary: Parallel multifactor dimensionality reduction is a tool for large-scale analysis of gene–gene and gene–environment interactions. The MDR algorithm was redesigned to allow an unlimited number of study subjects, total variables and variable states, and to remove restrictions on the order of interactions being analyzed. In addition, the algorithm is markedly more efficient, with ∼150-fold decrease in runtime for equivalent analyses. To facilitate the processing of large datasets, the algorithm was made parallel.

Availability: Parallel MDR is freely available for non-commercial research institutions. For full details see . An open-source version of MDR software is available at .

Contact:  ritchie@chgr.mc.vanderbilt.edu
MAGOS: multiple alignment and modelling server
Authors: Garnier N. , Friedrich A. , Bolze R. , Bettler E. , Moulinier L. , Geourjon C. , Thompson J. D. , Deléage G. , Poch O.
Published: July 2006

Summary: MAGOS is a web server allowing automated protein modelling coupled to the creation of a hierarchical and annotated multiple alignment of complete sequences. MAGOS is designed for an interactive approach of structural information within the framework of the evolutionary relevance of mined and predicted sequence information.

Availability: The web server is freely available at

Supplementary information: The website supplies detailed explanations and illustrations of processes and results at

Contact:  e.bettler@ibcp.fr
C3H/HeJ Mouse Model for Spontaneous Chronic Otitis Media
Authors: MacArthur Carol J. , Hefeneider Steven H. , Kempton J Beth , Trune Dennis R.
Published: July 2006

Objectives/Hypothesis: Chronic otitis media is a significant clinical problem. Understanding the mechanisms of chronic otitis media is critical for its control. However, little is known of these processes as a result of lack of animal models of spontaneous otitis media. The C3H/HeJ mouse has a single amino acid substitution in its toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), making it insensitive to endotoxin. As a result, these mice cannot clear Gram‐negative bacteria. The chronically inflamed middle ear in this animal provides us the opportunity to study spontaneous chronic otitis media.

Study Design and Methods: Otoscopy and auditory brain response (ABR) evaluation of C3H/HeJ mice at 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11 months were carried out under sedation. At 12 months of age, mice were killed and histologic analysis of the middle ear, inner ear, and eustachian tube was carried out.

Results: Tympanic membrane visualization and ABR thresholds in 7‐ to 8‐month‐old C3H/HeJ mice showed that approximately half developed middle and inner ear disease spontaneously. The significant elevation of thresholds suggested a sensorineural component in addition to the conductive loss. Middle and inner ear histology showed some degree of middle and inner ear inflammation in half the mice, paralleling the ABR data.

Conclusions: The histopathologic changes reported here in the C3H/HeJ mouse model of chronic otitis media have been reported in human chronic otitis media. This spontaneous model of chronic otitis media will be valuable for the characterization of middle and inner ear inflammatory disease processes that are induced by middle ear infections.
A killer whale social network is vulnerable to targeted removals
Authors: Williams Rob , Lusseau David
Published: June 2006

Individuals play various roles in maintaining social integrity of mammalian populations. However, many models developed for managing wildlife resources assume that all individuals are equal. Killer whales are social animals that rely on relationships within and among family groups for survival. In the northeastern Pacific, fish-eating, ‘resident’ killer whale populations are composed of matrilines from which offspring do not disperse. We analysed the influence of various individuals' age, sex and matrilineal affiliation on their position in a social network. Here, we show that some matrilines appeared to play more central roles than others in the network. Furthermore, juvenile whales, especially females, appeared to play a central role in maintaining network cohesion. These two key findings were supported subsequently by simulating removal of different individuals. The network was robust to random removals; however, simulations that mimicked historic live-captures from the northeastern Pacific were likely to break the network graph into isolated groups. This finding raises concern regarding targeted takes, such as live-capture or drive fisheries, of matrilineal cetaceans.
Kin discrimination and altruism in the larvae of a solitary insect
Authors: Lizé Anne , Carval Dominique , Cortesero Anne Marie , Fournet Sylvain , Poinsot Denis
Published: June 2006

Kin selection theory predicts altruism between related individuals, which requires the ability to recognize kin from non-kin. In insects, kin discrimination associated with altruistic behaviour is well-known in clonal and social species but in very few solitary insects. Here, we report that the solitary larvae of a non-social insectAleochara bilineataGyll. (Coleoptera; Staphylinidae) show kin discrimination and sibling-directed altruistic behaviour. Larvae superparasitize more frequently the hosts parasitized by non-kin individuals than those hosts parasitized by siblings. Kin discrimination probably occurs by self-referent phenotype matching, where an individual compares its own phenotype with that of a non-familiar related individual, a mechanism rarely demonstrated in animals. The label used to recognize kin from non-kin corresponds to substances contained in the plug placed on the hosts by the resident larvae during the parasitization process. Kin competition induced by a limited larval dispersion may have favoured the evolution of kin recognition in this solitary species.
Global early warning systems for natural hazards: systematic and people-centred
Authors: Basher Reid
Published: June 2006

To be effective, early warning systems for natural hazards need to have not only a sound scientific and technical basis, but also a strong focus on the people exposed to risk, and with a systems approach that incorporates all of the relevant factors in that risk, whether arising from the natural hazards or social vulnerabilities, and from short-term or long-term processes. Disasters are increasing in number and severity and international institutional frameworks to reduce disasters are being strengthened under United Nations oversight. Since the Indian Ocean tsunami of 26 December 2004, there has been a surge of interest in developing early warning systems to cater to the needs of all countries and all hazards.
Chryseobacterium hispanicum sp. nov., isolated from the drinking water distribution system of Sevilla, Spain
Authors: Gallego Virginia , García Maria Teresa , Ventosa Antonio
Published: July 2006

Strain VP48T was isolated from drinking water during a screening programme to monitor the bacterial population present in the water distribution system of Sevilla (Spain). A polyphasic taxonomic study of the isolate resulted in its identification as a member of the genus Chryseobacterium, members of which are widely distributed in soil, water and clinical sources. However, the 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity values of strain VP48T to the type strains of Chryseobacterium species were 96 % or lower. Furthermore, phenotypic characteristics clearly indicated that the isolate represents a novel Chryseobacterium species, for which the name Chryseobacterium hispanicum sp. nov. is proposed; strain VP48T (=CECT 7129T=CCM 7359T=JCM 13554T) is the type strain. The DNA G+C content of this strain is 34.3 mol%.
RNA expression profiling at the single molecule level
Authors: Hesse Jan , Jacak Jaroslaw , Kasper Maria , Regl Gerhard , Eichberger Thomas , Winklmayr Martina , Aberger Fritz , Sonnleitner Max , Schlapak Robert , Howorka Stefan , Muresan Leila , Frischauf Anna-Maria , Schütz Gerhard J.
Published: June 2006

We developed a microarray platform for PCR amplification-independent expression profiling of minute samples. A novel scanning system combined with specialized biochips enables detection down to individual fluorescent oligonucleotide molecules specifically hybridized to their complementary sequence over the entire biochip surface of cm2 size. A detection limit of 1.3 fM target oligonucleotide concentration—corresponding to only 39,000 molecules in the sample solution—and a dynamic range of 4.7 orders of magnitude have been achieved. The applicability of the system to PCR amplification-independent gene-expression profiling of minute samples was demonstrated by complex hybridization of cDNA derived from the equivalent of only 104 cells, which matches results obtained in ensemble studies on large samples. By counting each hybridized molecule on the microarray, the method is insusceptible to gene-specific variations of the labeling, thereby representing a principle advance to conventional ensemble-based microarray analysis.
Studying and evaluating anti‐corrosion coatings and inhibitors using the wire beam electrode method in conjunction with electrochemical noise analysis
Authors: Tan Yong‐Jun , Wang Ting , Liu Tie , Aung Naing‐Naing
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To provide a summary of research work carried out mainly in the authors' group for evaluating various protective coatings including rustproofing oils, and also for studying corrosion inhibitors using the wire beam electrode (WBE) method.

Design/methodology/approach

A range of published papers published during the past 15 years was summarised and reviewed. Recent research work in the authors' group was also included, which involved the combined use of the WBE with electrochemical noise analysis and the scanning reference electrode technique.

Findings

The WBE method has been developed into a very useful tool of evaluating the performance of coatings and inhibitors. In particular, The WBE is uniquely applicable for determining the performance of coatings and inhibitors to control localised corrosion.

Research limitations/implications

Focusing mainly on recent research.

Practical implications

A useful source of information for researchers and graduate students working in the areas of organic coating and inhibitor research.

Originality/value

The first summary or review on this research topic.
Effect of modified packaging and storage time of cocoa pods on the commercial quality of cocoa beans
Authors: Aroyeun S.O. , Ogunbayo J.O. , Olaiya A.O.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Lack of good post‐harvest storage of cocoa pods has been responsible for the low commercial quality of cocoa beans. This study aims to evaluate the effect of modified packaging and storage time of cocoa pods on the corresponding commercial qualities of cocoa beans.

Design/methodology/approach

Preweighed cocoa pods obtained from the experimental station of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, Ibadan, Nigeria were stored under three modified packaging conditions, namely: black non transparent polythene film (BNTPEF), transparent polythene film (TPEF) and NA(normal atmosphere environment).

Findings

The study found that there was a rise in the mean temperatures of samples in all the storage environments up to the 12th day of storage, after which the mean temperature declined until the end of the storage period. Cocoa butter fat, bean weights, severity of decay and mould growths depended on the type of packaging and storage time.

Originality/value

Atp<0.05 the use of modified packaging of cocoa pods significantly affects the commercial values of the beans. The best of these qualities was conserved in the TPEF.
Key skills retention and motivation: the war for talent still rages and retention is the high ground
Authors: Glen Clayton
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The paper sets out to examine effective, practical and holistic people strategies that address key skills retention, employee engagement, employee motivation and attendance gaps, with a view to positively impacting on organization costs, productivity and business performance. The paper also seeks to examine the value of assessment and feedback in talent engagement and retention, and to look at developing employees via experience‐based development initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper commences with an assessment of a matrix of the “hot buttons” or “predictors”, which need to be consciously managed – with significant potential returns, where managed well. The paper examines a holistic matrix of nine employee engagement predictors: process; role challenge; values; work‐life balance; information; stake/leverage/reward/recognition; management; work environment; and product. Reference is made to a case study in which this matrix formed the basis of the organization's people management strategy.

Findings

Workplace context is key. Take a holistic view of the key elements of the business most likely to impact team engagement, motivation, attendance and retention, link individual assessment directly to the key drivers of the business, and recognize that key talent is likely to thrive on experience‐based career leverage opportunities.

Originality/value

Provides practical guidance to senior HR professionals and business leaders for developing a successful strategy for key skills retention and employee engagement.
Management and leadership development: making it work
Authors: Cook Petra
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Given the huge national and corporate investment in developing management and leadership capability, questions about the effectiveness of such development activities are valid, necessary and urgent. This paper aims to examine this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

There were 1,000 respondents consisting of matched pairs of HR managers and line managers drawn from 500 organizations. The survey was carried out using archive data collected in 1996, 2000 and 2004.

Findings

The report provides evidence demonstrating how management and leadership development works when it is: a clear organizational priority with employers taking responsibility; linked to business strategy with established processes and frameworks; designed to build relevant competences and behaviors; and focused on long‐term tenure of employees.

Research limitations/implications

This report continues the influential research series started in the mid‐1980s when the Chartered Management Institute worked with Charles Handy and others to analyze how the UK developed its managers. Studies were carried out every four years throughout the 1990s: the previous survey, “Achieving management excellence”, was carried out in 2000 and has been extensively referenced by Government, business and the media.

Practical implications

Communicate to policy makers, employers and employees that there is clear evidence that management and leadership development improves organizational performance over time. Derive the greatest benefits by implementing management and leadership development (MLD) in a coherent and strategic way. Develop the skill‐sets associated with people management, leadership, customer care and motivation/teamwork.

Originality/value

Uniquely, this report provides key evidence of the links between investment and organizational performance over an eight‐year period to managers in public and private organizations across the UK.
Structure and function in retrieval
Authors: Gilchrist Alan
Published: June 2006

Purpose

This paper forms part of the series “60 years of the best in information research”, marking the 60th anniversary of the Journal of Documentation. It aims to review the influence of Brian Vickery's 1971 paper, “Structure and function in retrieval languages”. The paper is not an update of Vickery's work, but a comment on a greatly changed environment, in which his analysis still has much validity.

Design/methodology/approach

A commentary on selected literature illustrates the continuing relevance of Vickery's ideas.

Findings

Generic survey and specific reference are still the main functions of retrieval languages, with minor functional additions such as relevance ranking. New structures are becoming increasingly significant, through developments such as XML. Future development in artificial intelligence hold out new prospects still.

Originality/value

The paper shows the continuing relevance of “traditional” ideas of information science from the 1960s and 1970s.
The information environment of women in Nigeria's public service
Authors: Mabawonku Iyabo
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Women constitute a significant proportion of the Nigerian public servants. They have varied job related information needs and possess some information seeking behaviour. The study aimed to identify their job‐related information needs and assess the existing office information environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey method, using questionnaire and observation techniques were used in collecting data from 158 women in the top cadre of the federal and three selected state ministries and parastatals.

Findings

The study found that most of the information needs were related to governance, education, religion, family and domestic matters. Only one‐third of the respondents regarded information on women as very relevant to job performance. Newspapers, magazines, newsletters, colleagues, and conversations were the main sources of information. Although electronic sources, especially the internet were not widely available, the respondents were enthusiastic to use them. They also perceived positive relationship between good information environment and job performance.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation of the study is the small sample considering that there are 36 states in Nigeria. Also, a study of all public servants, male and female, would have been better. The paper recommends an improvement to the information environment of the government establishments.

Originality/value

As not many studies have been done on women in public service and their information needs and use, the findings of this study will be useful to government and other decision makers in providing facilities and for infrastructural development to increase productivity of women and all public servants.
Incorporating a virtual union catalogue into the wider information environment through the application of middleware
Authors: Cousins Shirley , Sanders Ashley
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To explore the use of middleware to provide access to a virtual catalogue via Z39.50, allowing its integration with other services. To consider issues arising from the cross‐database search process and the problem of interoperability between systems.

Design/methodology/approach

Middleware was used to establish a Z39.50 server for an existing virtual union catalogue, InforM25. The Copac physical union catalogue was used to carry out cross‐database search tests, investigating the value of query transformation by the middleware and illustrating many of the issues associated with interoperability in cross‐database searching.

Findings

The test results demonstrate the viability and benefits of using middleware to allow the integration of virtual catalogues with other services. The results also illustrate the range of issues affecting the performance of the virtual catalogue, with supporting evidence from the use of the Copac physical union catalogue for cross‐database searching via Z39.50. In particular the discussion highlights the issue of semantic interoperability, as well as emphasising the value of centralised virtual catalogue support.

Research limitations/implications

The research was limited to work on a specific virtual union catalogue, that is InforM25, but the results highlight issues with general relevance in the development of any virtual catalogue. The need for more work on response times in the virtual union catalogue is apparent, along with the related issue of result set post processing.

Originality/value

This paper provides a practical demonstration of the issues important to those involved in making their local catalogue accessible to services, and individuals, outside their own institution, as well as those working on virtual union catalogue development.
Falling into capability learning traps
Authors: Harrison Jeannette , Boyle Emily
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how one firm – the British Shoe Corporation – eventually failed because, as a result of the strength of its predominant managerial mental model it fell into a number of exploitative learning capability traps.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a contemporary historical case study approach. This allows for a longitudinal study of the phenomenon. It examines the core concepts involved before moving on to consider the task environment in which the company operated, the origins and nature of its predominant managerial mental model, its performance over its lifetime and how and why it fell into the various capability learning traps.

Findings

The study found that the firm's predominant managerial mental model had a significant impact on its capability learning. It argues that to prevent other firms falling into these sorts of traps they should adopt scenario planning and seek out internal asymmetries.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited in that it only considers one specific case. More studies of the same sort need to be carried out before the findings can be considered generalisable. Again much more research is needed into the process of seeking out internal asymmetries, a recently developed concept with very little written on it.

Practical implications

The paper provides advice on ways to prevent firms falling into the same sorts of learning traps as the British Shoe Corporation.

Originality/value

The paper is original in that it relates the problem of falling into capability learning traps to the predominant managerial mental model of the organisation. It provides a practical example of the phenomenon and discusses practical strategies that other firms can adopt to avoid suffering the same outcome.
Research on outsourcing results: current literature and future opportunities
Authors: Jiang Bin , Qureshi Amer
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Outsourcing emerged as a popular operational strategy in the 1990s and most of current literature was established in the same time. However, the result of outsourcing is still vague. The purpose of this article is to point out gaps in the current literature and examine the link between outsourcing implementation and firms' performance metrics by analysing hard data.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, current outsourcing research (from 1990 to 2003) methodologies are grouped by five categories: case study, survey, conceptual framework, mathematical modeling, and financial data analyses; research scope is identified by three areas: outsourcing determinant, outsourcing process, and outsourcing result.

Findings

This article figures out three main gaps in the current literature: lack of objective metrics for outsourcing results evaluation, lack of research on the relationship between outsourcing implementation and firms' value, and lack of research on the outsourcing contract itself.

Research limitations/implications

If research is reported on in the paper this section must be completed and should include suggestions for future research and any identified limitations in the research process.

Originality/value

Based on the literature review, the author provides the roadmap of future research on outsourcing results. To our best knowledge, this is the first comprehensive literature review which informs the major gaps and future research opportunities in outsourcing study.