bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The chemoattractant chemerin suppresses melanoma by recruiting natural killer cell antitumor defenses
Authors: Pachynski Russell K. , Zabel Brian A. , Kohrt Holbrook E. , Tejeda Nicole M. , Monnier Justin , Swanson Christina D. , Holzer Alison K. , Gentles Andrew J. , Sperinde Gizette V. , Edalati Abdolhossein , Hadeiba Husein A. , Alizadeh Ash A. , Butcher Eugene C.
Published: July 2012

Infiltration of specialized immune cells regulates the growth and survival of neoplasia. Here, in a survey of public whole genome expression datasets we found that the gene for chemerin, a widely expressed endogenous chemoattractant protein, is down-regulated in melanoma as well as other human tumors. Moreover, high chemerin messenger RNA expression in tumors correlated with improved outcome in human melanoma. In experiments using the B16 transplantable mouse melanoma, tumor-expressed chemerin inhibited in vivo tumor growth without altering in vitro proliferation. Growth inhibition was associated with an altered profile of tumor-infiltrating cells with an increase in natural killer (NK) cells and a relative reduction in myeloid-derived suppressor cells and putative immune inhibitory plasmacytoid dendritic cells. Tumor inhibition required host expression of CMKLR1 (chemokine-like receptor 1), the chemoattractant receptor for chemerin, and was abrogated by NK cell depletion. Intratumoral injection of chemerin also inhibited tumor growth, suggesting the potential for therapeutic application. These results show that chemerin, whether expressed by tumor cells or within the tumor environment, can recruit host immune defenses that inhibit tumorigenesis and suggest that down-regulation of chemerin may be an important mechanism of tumor immune evasion.
Staphylococcus aureus Colonization before Infection Is Not Associated with Mortality among S. aureus-infected Patients: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Schweizer Marin L. , Bossen Ann , McDanel Jennifer S. , Dennis Leslie K.
Published: July 2012

Background and Objective.

The literature is conflicted as to whether people colonized with Staphylococcus aureus are at an increased risk of mortality. The aim of this meta-analysis was to review and analyze the current literature to determine whether prior history of S. aureus colonization is associated with mortality among S. aureus-infected patients.

Methods.

The PUBMED databases were searched with keywords related to S. aureus colonization and mortality. After reviewing 380 article abstracts and 59 articles in detail, only 7 studies had data on the association between S. aureus colonization and mortality among S. aureus-infected patients. Crude estimates of study odds ratios (ORs) were calculated on the basis of data from subset analyses. We pooled crude ORs from the 7 studies using a random-effects model. Woolf's test for heterogeneity was assessed.

Results.

When all studies were pooled in a random-effects model, no association between S. aureus colonization and mortality among S. aureus-infected patients was seen (pooled OR, 1.08 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.32–3.66]; n = 7; heterogeneity P = .05). When the analyses were restricted to infection-attributable mortality, the association between colonization and mortality among S. aureus-infected patients was not statistically significant (pooled OR, 0.42 [95% CI, 0.15–1.21]; n = 4; heterogeneity P = .28).

Conclusions.

S. aureus colonization was not associated with mortality among patients who developed an S. aureus infection. Interventions to decolonize S. aureus carriers may prevent S. aureus infections but may not be sufficient to prevent mortality.
A Toolkit for Monitoring Hospital-Acquired Bloodstream Infection in Neonatal Intensive Care
Authors: Leighton Pamela , Cortina-Borja Mario , Millar Michael , Kempley Stephen , Gilbert Ruth
Published: July 2012

Objective.

In neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), monitoring hospital-acquired bloodstream infection (BSI) is critical to alert clinicians to variations in the incidence of infection between units and over time. We demonstrate a toolkit of monitoring techniques that account for case mix and could be implemented using routinely available clinical data. This toolkit could enable quality of care comparisons between hospitals to facilitate the sharing of improved practices.

Design.

Prospective study over 4 years.

Setting and Patients.

Babies admitted to 2 tertiary London NICUs.

Methods.

We derived expected numbers of BSI episodes using a Poisson regression risk model adjusting for variations in birth weight, transfers to the NICU from other hospitals, postnatal age, and days spent at each National Health Service level of care. We compared observed and expected numbers of BSI episodes using 2 monitoring techniques: standardized infection ratios (SIRs) and the sequential probability ratio test (SPRT).

Results.

Using the SIR method, observed BSI incidence increased over expected incidence in 2002 at both NICUs, but this increase did not reach statistical significance at the 1% level. Using the SPRT method, neither unit showed a clinically important increase or decrease, defined as a 30% deviation from expected incidence.

Conclusions.

Risk-adjusted BSI monitoring can be performed using routine hospital data. NICUs could use SIRs for an annual look back at infection incidence and SPRTs for prospective, quarterly monitoring. The SIR and the SPRT methods have different strengths, and both could help clinicians improve infection control and patient care in NICUs.
Increasing Burden of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Hospitalizations at US Academic Medical Centers, 2003–2008
Authors: David Michael Z. , Medvedev Sofia , Hohmann Samuel F. , Ewigman Bernard , Daum Robert S.
Published: July 2012

Objective.

The incidence of invasive methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in the United States decreased during 2005–2008, but noninvasive community-associated MRSA (CA-MRSA) infections also frequently lead to hospitalization. We estimated the incidence of all MRSA infections among inpatients at US academic medical centers (AMCs) per 1,000 admissions during 2003–2008.

Design.

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting and Participants.

Hospitalized patients at 90% of nonprofit US AMCs during 2003–2008.

Methods.

Administrative data on MRSA infections from a hospital discharge database (University HealthSystem Consortium [UHC]) were adjusted for underreporting of the MRSA V09.0 International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification code and validated using chart reviews for patients with known MRSA infections in 2004–2005, 2006, and 2007.

Results.

The mean sensitivity of administrative data for MRSA infections at the University of Chicago Medical Center in three 12-month periods during 2004–2007 was 59.1%. On the basis of estimates of billing data sensitivity from the literature and the University of Chicago Medical Center, the number of MRSA infections per 1,000 hospital discharges at US AMCs increased from 20.9 (range, 11.1–47.7) in 2003 to 41.7 (range, 21.9–94.0) in 2008. At the University of Chicago Medical Center, among infections cultured more than 3 days prior to hospital discharge, CA-MRSA infections were more likely to be captured in the UHC billing-derived data than were healthcare-associated MRSA infections.

Conclusions.

The number of hospital admissions for any MRSA infection per 1,000 hospital admissions overall increased during 2003–2008. Use of unadjusted administrative hospital discharge data or surveillance for invasive disease far underestimates the number of MRSA infections among hospitalized patients.
Molecular Detection and Quantification ofPythiumSpecies: Evolving Taxonomy, New Tools, and Challenges
Authors: Schroeder Kurtis L. , Martin Frank N. , de Cock Arthur W. A. M. , Lévesque C. André , Spies Christoffel F. J. , Okubara Patricia A. , Paulitz Timothy C.
Published: July 2012

The genus Pythium is one of the most important groups of soilborne plant pathogens, present in almost every agricultural soil and attacking the roots of thousands of hosts, reducing crop yield and quality. Most species are generalists, necrotrophic pathogens that infect young juvenile tissue. In fact, Cook and Veseth have called Pythium the “common cold” of wheat, because of its chronic nature and ubiquitous distribution. Where Pythium spp. are the cause of seedling damping-off or emergence reduction, the causal agent can easily be identified based on symptoms and culturing. In more mature plants, however, infection by Pythium spp. is more difficult to diagnose, because of the nonspecific symptoms that could have abiotic causes such as nutrient deficiencies or be due to other root rotting pathogens. Molecular methods that can accurately identify and quantify this important group are needed for disease diagnosis and management recommendations and to better understand the epidemiology and ecology of this important group. The purpose of this article is to outline the current state-of-the-art in the detection and quantification of this important genus. In addition, we will introduce the reader to new changes in the taxonomy of this group.
Fusarium spp. Causing Dry Rot of Seed Potato Tubers in Michigan and Their Sensitivity to Fungicides
Authors: Gachango E. , Hanson L. E. , Rojas A. , Hao J. J. , Kirk W. W.
Published: July 2012

A survey of seed potato tubers in Michigan seed production storage facilities was carried out during 2009 and 2010. Fusarium spp. associated with tuber dry rot symptoms were identified to species and tested for sensitivity to difenoconazole, fludioxonil, and thiabendazole. Symptomatic tubers (n = 370) were collected from a total of 51 seed lots, from which 228 isolates of Fusarium were recovered and identified to 11 species. Fusarium oxysporum was the most commonly isolated species (30.3%), followed by F. equiseti (19.3%). F. sambucinum and F. avenaceum were third most prevalent (each at 13.6%). Less prevalent species (each at 4 to 10%) included F. cerealis, F. solani, and F. acuminatum; and species present at ≤3% included F. sporotrichioides, F. torulosum, F. tricinctum, and F. graminearum. Representative isolates of all species were pathogenic when inoculated onto seed tubers (‘Dark Red Norland’). Isolates of F. sambucinum were the most virulent. All 228 isolates of Fusarium were sensitive to difenoconazole (effective fungicide concentration that caused 50% inhibition of mycelial growth [EC50] < 5 mg/liter). Insensitivity to fludioxonil (EC50 > 100 mg/liter) was detected only for F. sambucinum and F. oxysporum isolates at 8.9 and 20.4%, respectively. All isolates were sensitive to thiabendazole (EC50 < 5 mg/liter), except for those of F. sambucinum (EC50 > 100 mg/liter). Therefore, knowledge of what Fusarium spp. are present in seed potato storage facilities in Michigan may be important if using fludioxonil or thiabendazole for seed piece treatment but not when using difenoconazole.
Linkage Disequilibrium and Spatial Aggregation of Genotypes in Sexually Reproducing Populations of Erysiphe necator
Authors: Brewer Marin Talbot , Frenkel Omer , Milgroom Michael G.
Published: July 2012

Random mating and recombination in heterothallic ascomycetes should result in high genotypic diversity, 1:1 mating-type ratios, and random associations of alleles, or linkage equilibrium, at different loci. To test for random mating in populations of the grape powdery mildew fungus Erysiphe necator, we sampled isolates from vineyards of Vitis vinifera in Burdett, NY (NY09) and Winchester, VA (VA09) at the end of the epidemic in fall 2009. We also sampled isolates from the same Winchester, VA vineyard in spring 2010 at the onset of the next epidemic. Isolates were genotyped for mating type and 11 microsatellite markers. In the spring sample, which originated from ascospore infections, nearly every isolate had a unique genotype. In contrast, fall populations were less diverse. In all, 9 of 45 total genotypes in VA09 were represented by two or more isolates; 3 of 40 total genotypes in NY09 were represented by two or more isolates, with 1 genotype represented by 20 isolates. After clone correction, mating-type ratios in the three populations did not deviate from 1:1. However, even with clone correction, we detected significant linkage disequilibrium (LD) in all populations. Mantel tests detected positive correlations between genetic and physical distances within vineyards. Spatial autocorrelation showed aggregations up to 42 and 3 m in VA09 and NY09, respectively. Spatial autocorrelation most likely results from short dispersal distances. Overall, these results suggest that spatial genetic aggregation and clonal genotypes that arise during the asexual phase of the epidemic contribute to persistent LD even though populations undergo sexual reproduction annually.
COVMAP: a new algorithm for structure model optimization in theEXPOpackage
Authors: Altomare Angela , Cuocci Corrado , Giacovazzo Carmelo , Moliterni Anna , Rizzi Rosanna
Published: July 2012

A new procedure (COVMAP) has been developed with the aim of recovering the full structure from very poor models, such as those provided by direct methods in unfavorable conditions. The procedure is based on the concept of covariance between points of an electron density map, mathematically set out by the authors in a recent paper:i.e.the density at one point depends on the density at another point of the map if their covariance is not vanishing. This concept suggested a procedure of electron density modification that uses pairs of model peaks to restrict the region where the density modification should be applied. Such modified densities lead to additional peaks, which in turn are submitted to two other important phasing tools present inEXPO2011, the resolution bias minimization and weighted least-squares procedures, which relocate, refine or reject these peaks. The procedure is cyclic and often leads to the correct structure even if the starting model is very poor.
An anti-settling sample delivery instrument for serial femtosecond crystallography
Authors: Lomb Lukas , Steinbrener Jan , Bari Sadia , Beisel Daniel , Berndt Daniel , Kieser Christian , Lukat Martin , Neef Niklas , Shoeman Robert L.
Published: July 2012

Serial femtosecond crystallography (SFX) using X-ray free-electron laser (FEL) sources has the potential to determine the structures of macromolecules beyond the limitation of radiation damage and without the need for crystals of sufficient size for conventional crystallography. In SFX, a liquid microjet is used to inject randomly oriented crystals suspended in their storage solution into the FEL beam. Settling of crystals in the reservoir prior to the injection has been found to complicate the data collection. This article details the development of an anti-settling sample delivery instrument based on a rotating syringe pump, capable of producing flow rates and liquid pressures necessary for the operation of the injector. The device has been used successfully with crystals of different proteins, with crystal sizes smaller than 20 µm. Even after hours of continuous operation, no significant impairment of the experiments due to sample settling was observed. This article describes the working principle of the instrument and sets it in context with regard to the experimental conditions used for SFX. Hit rates for longer measuring periods are compared with and without the instrument operating. Two versions of the instrument have been developed, which both deliver sample at a constant flow rate but which differ in their minimum liquid flow rates and maximum pressures.
Elastic strain and stress determination by Rietveld refinement: generalized treatment for textured polycrystals for all Laue classes. Corrigenda
Authors: Popa Nicolae C. , Balzar Davor
Published: July 2012

Errors in the article by Popa & Balzar [J. Appl. Cryst.(2001),34, 187–195], caused by an equation from literature used without checking, are corrected. It is expected that other published papers will have been affected as the source error is in a reference book.
Real-time synchrotron X-ray diffraction study on the isothermal martensite transformation of maraging steel in high magnetic fields
Authors: San Martin D. , Jiménez-Melero E. , Duffy J. A. , Honkimäki V. , van der Zwaag S. , van Dijk N. H.
Published: July 2012

The isothermal austenite-to-martensite transformation kinetics in a maraging steel have been studied by time-dependent microbeam diffraction measurements with high-energy X-rays. The transformation kinetics are shown to be accelerated significantly when a magnetic field of 8 T is applied. The average phase behaviour, obtained from a Rietveld refinement of the powder-averaged diffraction data, demonstrates that the martensite formation does not lead to a macroscopic strain in the austenite and martensite phases. An analysis of individual austenite reflections in the microbeam diffraction patterns, however, indicates that within the transforming austenite grains a transformation strain develops as a result of the formed martensite. The development of elastic strains during the transformation is explained by a partial strain confinement within the untransformed part of the austenite grain. The strain relaxation to the surrounding austenite grains is found to be dependent on the austenite volume. For a set of individual austenite grains the martensite nucleation is correlated with the initial austenite volume and the strain developed prior to the transformation as a result of martensite formation in the neighbouring grains.
X-ray microimaging laboratory (XMI-LAB)
Authors: Altamura D. , Lassandro R. , Vittoria F. A. , De Caro L. , Siliqi D. , Ladisa M. , Giannini C.
Published: July 2012

A first-generation-synchrotron-class X-ray laboratory microsource, coupled to a three-pinhole camera, is presented. It allows (i) small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering images to be acquired simultaneously, and (ii) scanning small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering microscopy to be carried out. As representative applications, the structural complexity of a biological natural material (human bone biopsy) and of a metamaterial (colloidal nanocrystal assembly) are inspected at different length scales, studying the atomic/molecular ordering by (grazing-incidence) wide-angle X-ray scattering and the morphological/structural conformation by (grazing-incidence) small-angle X-ray scattering. In particular, the grazing-incidence measurement geometries are needed for inspecting materials lying on top of surfaces or buried underneath surfaces.
2,9-Diiodohexacyclo[9.3.1.12,6.14,8.19,13.01,8]octadecane
Authors: Ioannou Savvas , Moushi Eleni
Published: July 2012

The title compound, C18H24I2, has an adamantanoid structure with tetrahedral cages having four C atoms lying on the same plane [(I—)C—C—C—C(—I) torsion angle = 0°]. The plane is extended by the two I atoms, each having a deviation of 1.0 (6) Å [C—C—C—I torsion angle = 178.9 (4)°]. The central C—C bond connecting the two quaternary carbons seems enlarged [1.593 (9) Å] in comparison to the corresponding bond in [2]diadamantane [1.554 (3) Å]. This is attributed to the presence of the electronegative I atoms, which affect inductively the C atoms of the four-C-atom plane, making the central C—C bond weaker.
40-Deoxy-40(S)-iodorapamycin
Authors: Xie Lijun , Zuo Jian , Yang Guoxin , Zheng Congshen , Cheng Yuanrong
Published: July 2012

The title compound, C51H78INO12, contains a 29-membered ring incorporating amide, lactone and ester groups. It contains a total of 15 stereogenic centres. In the crystal, molecules are linked by O—H...O hydrogen bonds, formingC(8) chains propagating in [100]. A weak intramolecular O—H...O interaction also occurs.
1-[(3-Benzyloxy-2-nitrophenoxy)methyl]benzene
Authors: Fun Hoong-Kun , Arshad Suhana , Ubaradka S. R. , Shetty Prakash , Isloor Arun M.
Published: July 2012

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, C20H17NO4, consists of two crystallographically independent molecules. In one of the molecules, the central benzene ring forms dihedral angles of 2.26 (6) and 58.68 (6)° with the terminal benzene rings and the dihedral angle between the terminal benzene rings is 56.45 (6)°. The corresponding values for the other molecule are 35.17 (6), 70.97 (6) and 69.62 (6)°, respectively. In the crystal, an inversion dimer linked by a pair of C—H...O hydrogen bonds occurs for one of the unique molecules. C—H...π and π–π [centroid–centroid distances = 3.7113 (8) and 3.7216 (7) Å] interactions link the components into a three-dimensional network.
3-Acetyl-1-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)thiourea
Authors: Kumar Sharatha , Foro Sabine , Gowda B. Thimme
Published: July 2012

In the title compound, C9H8Cl2N2OS, the conformation of one of the N—H bonds isantito the C=S group and the other isantito the C=O group. Further, the conformations of the amide C=S and the C=O group areantito each other. The 2,6-dichlorophenyl ring and the 3-acetylthiourea side chain are inclined to one another at a dihedral angle of 83.44 (5)°. An intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bond occurs. In the crystal, molecules form inversion dimers through pairs of N—H...S hydrogen bonds.
4-[3-(Pyridin-4-yl)propyl]pyridinium 2-carboxybenzoate
Authors: Xu Wei , Qi Jin-Li
Published: July 2012

In the title molecular salt, C13H15N2+·C8H5O4−, the 2-carboxybenzoate anions are joined into a chain along [010] by strong O—H...O hydrogen bonds, with the H atoms disordered about the intervening centres of inversion. The presence of N—H...O hydrogen bonds between cations generates an additional chain along [010] and parallel to that of the anions. The chains are assembled into a three-dimensional frameworkviaweak C—H...O interchain interactions. In the cation, thee dihedral angle between the pyridine rings is 48.91 (4)°.
3,5-Diphenyl-1-(quinolin-2-yl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-5-ol
Authors: Najib Muhd. Hidayat bin , Tan Ai Ling , Young David J. , Ng Seik Weng , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: July 2012

In the title compound, C24H19N3O, the pyrazole ring is close to being planar (r.m.s. deviation of the five fitted atoms = 0.062 Å), and each of theN-bound quinoline ring [dihedral angle = 9.90 (7)°] and theC-bound phenyl ring in the 3-position is close to being coplanar [dihedral angle = 8.87 (9)°]. However, the phenyl ring in the 5-position forms a dihedral angle of 72.31 (9)°. The hydroxy group forms an intramolecular hydrogen bond to the quinoline N atom. In the crystal, molecules are connected into supramolecular layers two molecules thick in thebcplane by C—H...O and C—H...π interactions.
trans-Bis(nitrato-κO)bis(1,10-phenanthroline-κ2N,N′)manganese(II)
Authors: Saphu Watcharin , Chanthee Songwuit , Chainok Kittipong , Harding David J. , Pakawatchai Chaveng
Published: July 2012

In the title compound, [Mn(NO3)2(C12H8N2)2], the MnIIatom lies on a twofold rotation axis, and is six-coordinated in a distortedtrans-N4O2octahedral environment by four N atoms from two 1,10-phenanthroline ligands and two O atoms from two nitrate anions. The nitrate anion is disordered about a twofold rotation axis with fixed occupancy factors of 0.5. In the crystal, molecules are linked by weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds and π–π stacking interactions [centroid–centroid distance = 4.088 (5) Å] into a three-dimensional supramolecular network.
Ethane-1,2-diaminium bis(4-carboxy-2-propyl-1H-imidazole-5-carboxyate) monohydrate
Authors: Ying Yi-Mei , Zhang Tong , Yang Guang-Rui , Ma Ning
Published: July 2012

In the title hydrated molecular salt, C2H10N22+·2C8H9N2O4−·H2O, an intramolecular O—H...O hydrogen bond occurs in the anion, forming an S(7) ring. The –CO2and –CO2H groups make dihedral angles of 3.2 (2) and 2.0 (3)°, respectively, with the five-membered ring. In the crystal, N—H...O, N—H...N and O—H...O hydrogen bonds lead to the formation of a three-dimensional supramolecular architecture. The methyl group in the anion is disordered over two sets of sites in a 0.716 (9):0.284 (9) ratio. The ethylenediamine cation is generated by symmetry and the water molecule lies on a twofold axis.
Poly[tetraaquabis(μ4-thiophene-2,5-dicarboxylato)(μ2-thiophene-2,5-dicarboxylato)dieuropium(III)]
Authors: Du Xi-Gang , Zhang Jun , Li Jia-Jia
Published: July 2012

The three-dimensional coordination polymer, [Eu2(C6H2O4S)3(H2O)4]n, has been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions. The asymmetric unit comprises one Eu3+cation, two aqua ligands and one and a half thiophene-2,5-dicarboxylate anions (the half-anion being completed by a twofold rotation axis). The Eu3+cation is eight-coordinated in a distorted dodecahedral geometry. The crystal structure features O—H...O hydrogen bonds.
3-Acetyl-1-(2,5-dimethylphenyl)thiourea
Authors: Gowda B. Thimme , Foro Sabine , Kumar Sharatha
Published: July 2012

In the title compound, C11H14N2OS, the thioamide C=S and amide C=O bonds areantito each other; the N—H bonds are alsoantito each other. The molecular conformation is stabilized by an N—H...O hydrogen bond. In the crystal, the molecules are linked into inversion dimers by pairs of N—H...S hydrogen bonds.
6-Amino-1,3-dimethyl-5-[(E)-2-(methylsulfanyl)benzylideneamino]pyrimidine-2,4(1H,3H)-dione–1,3,7,9-tetramethylpyrimido[5,4-g]pteridine-2,4,6,8-tetrone (1/1)
Authors: Booysen Irvin N. , Ismail Muhammed B. , Akerman Matthew P.
Published: July 2012

In the title co-crystal, C12H12N6O4·C14H16N4O2S, both molecules are essentially planar [maximum deviations = 0.129 (1) and 0.097 (1) Å, respectively]. The tricyclic and Schiff base molecules are alternately stacked along theaaxis and are linked by π–π interactions with centroid–centroid distances of 3.5170 (16) and 3.6576 (17) Å. An intramolecular C—H...O hydrogen bond and a C—H...S contact occur in the Schiff base molecule. In the crystal, N—H...O, N—H...N and C—H...O hydrogen bonds lead to the formation of a three-dimensional network.
Fruit and snack consumption related to sweet, sour and salty taste preferences
Authors: Sijtsema Siet J. , Reinders Machiel J. , Hiller Sabine R.C.H. , Dolors Guàrdia M.
Published: June 2012

Purpose

To better understand fruit consumption and its determinants this paper aims to explore the relationship between the consumption of different types of fruit and other snacks and consumer taste preferences for sweet, salty and sour is explored.

Design/methodology/approach

Respondents (n=2,083) from Poland, Greece, Spain and The Netherlands filled out an online questionnaire in which the consumption of fresh fruit, sweet snacks, salty snacks, orange juice and dried fruit was measured as well as consumer self‐reported taste preferences and personal orientations towards health, convenience, price and routine behaviours.

Findings

A total of 29 percent of the total sample preferred salty tastes, whereas 21 percent preferred sweet tastes; 1 percent preferred sour tastes, and 39 percent indicated no preference. In contrast with the expectation that people who preferred sweet tastes consume more fruits and fruit products, the results imply that consumers with a sour taste preference consume more fruits and fruit products. In addition, consumers with a sour taste preference seem to be less convenience‐oriented and have more routine behaviours with regard to fruit. In contrast, consumers with a sweet taste preference eat more chocolate bars and are more convenience‐oriented.

Research limitations/implications

The self‐reported measurement of taste preferences requires further justification to be used as a measurement instrument, e.g. formulation of the items, different cultures and linkage with preferences based on sensory testing.

Practical implications

These findings show that the sweet tooth hypothesis is much more complicated if we consider not only consumption, but also self‐reported taste preferences.

Originality/value

The paper explores self‐reported taste preferences, the sweet tooth hypotheses and fruit consumption.
Aligning organizational values in systems development projects
Authors: Alec Cram W.
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the antecedents and implications of aligning the organizational values embedded in a systems development approach (e.g. agile) with the organizational values of project team members.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative case study approach is used to examine systems development project teams at three organizations, each using a development approach that incorporates different organizational value dimensions. Interviews were conducted with developers, systems analysts, and managers regarding their systems development experiences. A structured coding of the interview transcripts was then completed to enable analysis of value dimensions.

Findings

By comparing the dominant values between the project teams and their development approach, varying degrees of alignment were identified. Where alignment is high, perceptions of the systems development process are associated with satisfaction and enthusiasm; where alignment is low, perceptions focus on frustration and discontent.

Research limitations/implications

Based on the study's findings, four propositions pertaining to the antecedents and implications of IS values alignment are outlined for examination in future research.

Practical implications

The findings from this study can aid managers who are considering the use of a new systems development approach or evaluating the effectiveness of their current approach. By determining the degree of information systems (IS) values alignment, organizations may be able to customize their development approach to be more consistent with the team's values, in order to minimize negative development process perceptions and increase project performance.

Originality/value

This research extends past studies of organizational values and alignment by introducing the concept of IS values alignment.
Job satisfaction and retirement age intentions in Finland
Authors: Kautonen Teemu , Hytti Ulla , Bögenhold Dieter , Heinonen Jarna
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the effect of job satisfaction on the intended retirement age of self‐employed and organisationally‐employed white‐collar professionals. The analysis also examines potential boundary conditions imposed by other domains of life for the applicability of this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs ordered probit regressions to analyse primary survey data comprising 1,262 Finnish white‐collar professionals.

Findings

The econometric results suggest that job satisfaction is a significant determinant of the intention to retire later and thus prolong a career. The analysis does not find a difference in the effect of job satisfaction between salary earners and self‐employed individuals. However, the analysis finds that other domains of life influence how job satisfaction affects retirement‐age intentions, and that these influences differ between self‐employed and salaried respondents.

Practical implications

The findings imply that developing measures to improve the job satisfaction of (highly educated) older workers is an alternative to the widely debated regulatory approach of prolonging working careers by increasing the statutory retirement age. The principal limitation is the focus on white‐collar professionals in a single country.

Originality/value

This is the first empirical comparison of the effect of job satisfaction on the intended retirement age between salary earners and self‐employed individuals. It is also the first examination of the effect of job satisfaction on retirement intentions or behaviour that accounts for the effects of other domains of life satisfaction.
J.B. Jackson, cultural geographer:evolution of an archive
Authors: Bellmore Audra , Bénaud Claire‐Lise , Bordeianu Sever
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to document the acquisition and processing of an important landscape architecture archive, the J.B. Jackson Collection, and making it available for scholars and researchers.

Design/methodology/approach

The first part of the article describes the importance of Jackson's contribution to landscape architecture and his professional legacy. This legacy consisted in a large collection of slides, scattered among various individuals and institutions. The authors then address how the various parts of the collection were identified, acquired, digitized and brought to the University of New Mexico (UNM). Metadata creation and issues of copyright are also discussed.

Findings

The paper finds that it requires considerable professional effort and networking to take a working collection and transform it into an archive that has intellectual cogency.

Research limitations/implications

UNM's effort to acquire, preserve and make this collection widely available will inspire future scholars and spark new ways of looking at landscape.

Practical implications

The extensive restoration needed for the Jackson slides warranted a vendor with museum experience, in this instance, Two Cat Digital. Metadata creation requires training qualified personnel. Copyright limitations dictate how the slides display.

Originality/value

J.B. Jackson defined the vernacular landscape. This project made his distinctive and important collection available to the research community. The paper also discussed the process of taking a working collection and turning it into a bona fide research tool.
Plessey launches range of unique electric field sensors
Authors: Bogue Robert
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide details of a high sensitivity electric field sensor developed by Plessey Semiconductors.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a background to the sensor's origins, this paper describes the principle of operation and then discusses three recently launched products and their applications. Finally, a range of other potential uses are considered.

Findings

This shows that the sensors offer the unique ability to detect very low electric fields, with or without physical contact. Products have been launched which are finding applications in healthcare and motion detection but many other uses are anticipated in such diverse areas as material testing, forensics, automotive safety, analytical technology and even earthquake prediction.

Originality/value

The paper describes a new type of electric field sensor which has the potential to satisfy a diversity of medical and industrial applications.
Sensor technology, ever more important to packaging: a highlight at PackExpo
Authors: Bloss Richard
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the PackExpo Show (packaging technology), with emphasis on the new sensor innovations and applications to packaging on display.

Design/methodology/approach

In‐depth interviews with exhibitors of sensors of all types at the PackExpo Show.

Findings

Sensing in packaging once was just weighing it but now it is product inspection, quality assessment, leakage and much more.

Practical implications

Packaging customers now have sensor technologies available to address government regulation concerns, product quality and the traditional weight and size factors.

Originality/value

Sensor users will find information about the latest in new sensing technologies which may assist them in solving current production problems.
Fiber optic displacement sensor using fiber coupler probe and real objects
Authors: Yasin M. , Rahman H.A. , Bidin N. , Harun S.W. , Ahmad H.
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate a simple design of a fiber optic displacement sensor using a multimode plastic fiber coupler based on reflective intensity modulation technique.

Design/methodology/approach

The performances of this sensor are investigated by correlating the detector output with different light sources, coupling ratios and various real objects with different reflectivity properties namely aluminum, brass and copper. In contrast to the output profile produced by probes with multiple fibers placed adjacently together, this sensor uses only one fiber for sending and receiving the light and therefore only the back slope exists.

Findings

Aluminum exhibit the highest performance among the real objects when coupled with a red He‐Ne laser and a coupling ratio of 50:50 with a sensitivity, linear range, resolution and dynamic range of 1.7 mV/mm, 1.5 mm, 16 μm, and 5.0 mm, respectively.

Originality/value

This is the first demonstration of a fiber optic displacement sensor using fiber coupler probe with successful examination of the correlation between the detector output, variation in coupling ratios and reflectivity properties of the tested real objects.
Recalibration technique for NDIR gas sensors without the need for gas standards
Authors: Wong Jacob , Tse Chi
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The output of nearly all non‐dispersive infrared (NDIR) gas sensors deployed in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry today cannot maintain their accuracy specifications within six months to a year. Consequently, all installed NDIR gas sensors must be re‐checked for accuracy over time at great costs. The purpose of this paper is to advance a novel technique for expeditiously recalibrating such installed NDIR gas sensors without the need for using any gas standards.

Design/methodology/approach

By recognizing the fact that the calibration curve for absorption biased designed NDIR gas sensors comprises two distinct domains, namely an invariant NDIR absorption physics domain and a variant sensor components characteristics domain. By formulating a novel recalibration procedure which corrects only changes that have taken place in the variant sensor components characteristics domain over time, it is possible to recalibrate the sensor very rapidly and remotely via wireless or infrared means using only the gas concentration level surrounding the sensor as a reasonably accurate gas standard.

Findings

Implementation of the currently described recalibration technique to a large number of absorption biased designed NDIR gas sensors has been carried out for over a year in the laboratory. Results of these experiments have unambiguously confirmed the capability and the accuracy of this novel recalibration technique.

Originality/value

The currently presented recalibration technique for absorption biased designed NDIR gas sensors is original and has never been published elsewhere. This technique significantly reduces the maintenance costs, inclusive of labor and material, for installed NDIR gas sensors that require periodic and mandatory accuracy commissioning over time.
Fiber optic displacement sensor for micro‐thickness measurement
Authors: Ahmad H. , Yasin M. , Thambiratnam K. , Harun S.W.
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose and demonstrate a simple yet accurate optical fibre based sensor capable of performing micron and sub‐micron thickness measurement.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed sensor consists of a multimode plastic probe, three He‐Ne lasers and translation stages along with a silicon photodiode and a lock‐in amplifier to measure the output voltage as the displacement of the sensor is increased.

Findings

The system operating with a source wavelength of 633 nm can provide measurements of up to 3 μm with a sensitivity of 0.0054 mV/μm.

Originality/value

The thickness of the sample can be obtained from a linear equation correlating the thickness of the sample to the displacement of the sensor at which the peak output voltage is obtained, or by correlating the thickness of the sample directly to the peak output voltage measured.
Reflective leaders become causal agents of change
Authors: McDaniel Elizabeth A. , DiBella‐McCarthy Holly
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to place the growing body of research on leadership self‐efficacy in context for practicing or aspiring leaders.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper highlights, synthesizes, and frames research on leadership self‐efficacy for leaders who seek to improve their effectiveness. It uses a case study to illustrate how a leader can apply the findings of research to become a better leader.

Findings

Performance‐enhancing strategies are recommended based on the literature for practitioners who strive to become better leaders by improving their self‐monitoring and reflective skills.

Practical implications

The paper seeks to provide practitioners with useful strategies to improve their leadership self‐efficacy.

Originality/value

A decade ago the authors published a handful of articles about the implications of self‐efficacy for educators and remain interested in the topic, finding that while research on leadership self‐efficacy is growing, it has not reached leaders in the workplace.
The managers' characteristics and their strategy development in the Palestinian NGOs
Authors: Analoui Farhad , Samour Akram
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the role of managers in the strategic management process, particularly its application in non‐governmental organizations (NGOs).

Design/methodology/approach

The study examines the relationship between managers’ demographic characteristics and the impact of strategic awareness on their part upon NGO performance. It is based on a recent empirical survey of NGOs located in the Gaza Strip (GS) in Palestine. Survey questionnaire supported by selected interviews and secondary data formed the main data collection instruments.

Findings

There is no disparity of opinion of the correspondence about the identification of NGOs manager's perceptions and attitudes toward developing and implementing effective strategies at significant level due to age, years of experience, level of education and gender. Moreover, it was discovered that the awareness of the managers plays an important part in the formulation and implementation of strategy in NGOs.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this first‐time study are specific to the NGO sector in the Gaza Strip, though there are a number of policy implications for other developing countries.

Practical implications

The research has far reaching implications for selection, training and development of managers of NGOs, because of their significant role as strategists concerned with suitable allocation of resources, human and otherwise, to guide and improve strategic performance.

Originality/value

The original contribution is concerned with the managers’ awareness of the strategic management processes in Palestinian NGOs. It has a particular value for human resource management (HRM) decision processes towards recruitment, selection and management development of the managers.
Managerial strategies in small, fast‐growing manufacturing firms
Authors: Tell Joakim
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to create a better understanding of the strategic management behavior of top managers in small, fast‐growing manufacturing firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical data have been collected in Sweden through both a survey of the 100 fastest growing small firms during 2000 and the development five years after (2001‐2006), as well as through structured observations of the working days of top managers in six fast‐growing manufacturing small firms.

Findings

Managers in small, fast‐growing manufacturing firms are engaged in many different activities. However, a few activities tend to take the majority of their time. These activities are either operational (for instance, activities related to production, marketing and sales) or administrative (for instance, activities related to the firms’ personnel and to financial issues). Looking at the managers’ activities from a strategy management point of view, they spend very little time on strategic activities. This finding may explain why firm growth in many cases declines or even ceases.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the theoretical and empirical literature on strategic processes in small, fast‐growing manufacturing firms by showing that the majority of their managers use a “simplistic strategy”. Such a strategy may imply that these managers find it difficult to alter their originally successful operational and administrative behavior in order to develop their firms. Such managers are “stuck” in a path dependency mindset, even though the growth of their firms requires that they adopt a more flexible management strategy.
Trust repair: the impact of perceived organisational support and issue‐selling
Authors: Simsarian Webber Sheila , Bishop Karen , O'Neill Regina
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the trust repair efforts of top management within an organization specifically focusing on the impact of perceived organizational support and issue‐selling success. Building on the theoretical trust repair literature, the authors bridge the gap between the laboratory dyad trust repair settings and the severe organization‐wide trust repair settings.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors focus on one organizational context that experienced competency‐ and integrity‐based trust violations between managers and top management. Surveys and interviews were conducted with 32 managers to capture trust in top management, issue‐selling success rate, and perceived organizational support.

Findings

Results demonstrate that perceived organizational support is significantly and positively related to trust in top management. In contrast, issue‐selling success rate is negatively related to trust in top management above and beyond the impact of perceived organizational support.

Practical implications

Trust repair approaches should include demonstrations of organizational support of employees by showing care and concern along with engaging employees in a change process that demonstrates top management commitment to repairing trusting relationships. In addition, top management trust repair efforts should focus on providing managers with the opportunity to engage in multiple issue‐selling episodes.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to an existing research base by extending the approaches to repairing trust in organizational settings to specifically examine the impact of perceived organizational support and issue‐selling.
The facets of job satisfaction among vice‐principals in elementary schools
Authors: Beycioglu Kadir , Ozer Niyazi , Tayyar Ugurlu Celal
Published: June 2012

Purpose

Literature on vice‐principals that aims to get a better understanding of their roles, role perceptions in school management, and their attitudes towards school management have revealed that the vice‐principalship is one of the least researched and least discussed. The purpose of this paper is to explore the facets of job satisfaction among Turkish vice‐principals.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected via a survey administered to 159 vice‐principals working for elementary schools in a city in the eastern part of Turkey and results were gathered by May 2010. A two‐part survey questionnaire was used to elicit responses from vice‐principals. The instrument consists of 31 items and asks respondents to indicate the extent of their agreement with each of the items on a four‐point Likert scale. In this study items were designed as a five‐point scale. There is a section to collect personal information. It was included together with an item asking for their career orientation.

Findings

The results confirmed that the job satisfaction of vice‐principals had four job facets: “professional commitment”, “sense of synchrony”, “sense of efficacy”, and “level of personal challenge”. The results showed that the facets of “sense of efficacy” and “sense of synchrony” were major sources of job satisfaction, and that the vice‐principals who had any educational administration degree felt themselves more effective and more synchronic. The vice‐principals who did not plan to be a principal felt themselves less effective when coping with work stress and balancing their work and personal lives.

Originality/value

The paper provides a better understanding of vice‐principals’ roles, role perceptions in school management, and their attitudes towards school management, and extends knowledge about the facets of job satisfaction among Turkish vice‐principals.