bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Max is acetylated by p300 at several nuclear localization residues
Authors: Faiola Francesco , Wu Yi-Ting , Pan Songqin , Zhang Kangling , Farina Anthony , Martinez Ernest
Published: April 2007

Max is a ubiquitous transcription factor with a bHLHZip [basic HLH (helix–loop–helix) leucine zipper] DNA-binding/dimerization domain and the central component of the Myc/Max/Mad transcription factor network that controls cell growth, proliferation, differentiation and apoptotic cell death in metazoans. Max is the obligatory DNA-binding and dimerization partner for all the bHLHZip regulators of the Myc/Max/Mad network, including the Myc family of oncoproteins and the Mad family of Myc antagonists, which recognize E-box DNA elements in the regulatory regions of target genes. Max lacks a transcription regulatory domain and is the only member of the network that efficiently homodimerizes. Binding of Max homodimers to E-box elements suppresses the transcription regulatory functions of its network partners and of other non-network E-box-binding regulators. In contrast with its highly regulated partners, Max is a constitutively expressed and phosphorylated protein. Phosphorylation is, however, the only Max post-translational modification identified so far. In the present study, we have analysed Max posttranslational modifications by MS. We have found that Max is acetylated at several lysine residues (Lys-57, Lys-144 and Lys-145) in mammalian cells. Max acetylation is stimulated by inhibitors of histone deacetylases and by overexpression of the p300 co-activator/HAT (histone acetyltransferase). The p300 HAT also directly acetylates Max in vitro at these three residues. Interestingly, the three Max residues acetylated in vivo and in vitro by p300 are important for Max nuclear localization and Max-mediated suppression of Myc transactivation. These results uncover novel post-translational modifications of Max and suggest the potential regulation of specific Max complexes by p300 and reversible acetylation.
Characterization of insulin/IGF hybrid receptors: contributions of the insulin receptor L2 and Fn1 domains and the alternatively spliced exon 11 sequence to ligand binding and receptor activation
Authors: Benyoucef Samira , Surinya Katharina H. , Hadaschik Dirk , Siddle Kenneth
Published: April 2007

The IR (insulin receptor) and IGFR (type I insulin-like growth factor receptor) are found as homodimers, but the respective pro-receptors can also heterodimerize to form insulin–IGF hybrid receptors. There are conflicting data on the ligand affinity of hybrids, and especially on the influence of different IR isoforms. To investigate further the contribution of individual ligand binding epitopes to affinity and specificity in the IR/IGFR family, we generated hybrids incorporating both IR isoforms (A and B) and IR/IGFR domain-swap chimaeras, by ectopic co-expression of receptor constructs in Chinese hamster ovary cells, and studied ligand binding using both radioligand competition and bioluminescence resonance energy transfer assays. We found that IR-A–IGFR and IR-B–IGFR hybrids bound insulin with similar relatively low affinity, which was intermediate between that of homodimeric IR and homodimeric IGFR. However, both IR-A–IGFR and IR-B–IGFR hybrids bound IGF-I and IGF-II with high affinity, at a level comparable with homodimeric IGFR. Incorporation of a significant fraction of either IR-A or IR-B into hybrids resulted in abrogation of insulin- but not IGF-I-stimulated autophosphorylation. We conclude that the sequence of 12 amino acids encoded by exon 11 of the IR gene has little or no effect on ligand binding and activation of IR–IGFR hybrids, and that hybrid receptors bind IGFs but not insulin at physiological concentrations regardless of the IR isoform they contained. To reconstitute high affinity insulin binding within a hybrid receptor, chimaeras in which the IGFR L1 or L2 domains had been replaced by equivalent IR domains were co-expressed with full-length IR-A or IR-B. In the context of an IR-A–IGFR hybrid, replacement of IR residues 325–524 (containing the L2 domain and part of the first fibronectin domain) with the corresponding IGFR sequence increased the affinity for insulin by 20-fold. We conclude that the L2 and/or first fibronectin domains of IR contribute in trans with the L1 domain to create a high affinity insulin-binding site within a dimeric receptor.
A lysine accumulation phenotype of ScIpk2Δ mutant yeast is rescued by Solanum tuberosum inositol phosphate multikinase
Authors: Caddick Samuel E. K. , Harrison Christopher J. , Stavridou Ioanna , Johnson Sue , Brearley Charles A.
Published: April 2007

Inositol phosphates and the enzymes that interconvert them are key regulators of diverse cellular processes including the transcriptional machinery of arginine synthesis [York (2006) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1761, 552–559]. Despite considerable interest and debate surrounding the role of Saccharomyces cerevisiae inositol polyphosphate kinase (ScIPK2, ARG82, ARGRIII) and its inositol polyphosphate products in these processes, there is an absence of data describing how the transcripts of the arginine synthetic pathway, and the amino acid content of ScIpk2Δ, are altered under different nutrient regimes. We have cloned an IPMK (inositol phosphate multikinase) from Solanum tuberosum, StIPMK (GenBank® accession number EF362785), that despite considerable sequence divergence from ScIPK2, restores the arginine biosynthesis pathway transcripts ARG8, acetylornithine aminotransferase, and ARG3, ornithine carbamoyltransferase of ScIpk2Δ yeast to wild-type profiles. StIPMK also restores the amino acid profiles of mutant yeast to wild-type, and does so with ornithine or arginine as the sole nitrogen sources. Our data reveal a lysine accumulation phenotype in ScIpk2Δ yeast that is restored to a wild-type profile by expression of StIPMK, including restoration of the transcript profiles of lysine biosynthetic genes. The StIPMK protein shows only 18.6% identity with ScIPK2p which probably indicates that the rescue of transcript and diverse amino acid phenotypes is not mediated through a direct interaction of StIPMK with the ArgR–Mcm1 transcription factor complex that is a molecular partner of ScIPK2p.
Involvement of chondroitin sulfate synthase-3 (chondroitin synthase-2) in chondroitin polymerization through its interaction with chondroitin synthase-1 or chondroitin-polymerizing factor
Authors: Izumikawa Tomomi , Uyama Toru , Okuura Yuka , Sugahara Kazuyuki , Kitagawa Hiroshi
Published: April 2007

Previously, we have demonstrated that co-expression of ChSy-1 (chondroitin synthase-1), with ChPF (chondroitin-polymerizing factor) resulted in a marked augmentation of glycosyltransferase activities and the expression of the chondroitin polymerase activity of ChSy-1. These results prompted us to evaluate the effects of co-expression of the recently cloned CSS3 (chondroitin sulfate synthase-3) with ChPF, because ChSy-1 and CSS3 have similar properties, i.e. they possess GalNAcT-II (N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase-II) and GlcAT-II (glucuronyltransferase-II) activities responsible for the elongation of CS (chondroitin sulfate) chains but cannot polymerize chondroitin chains by themselves. Co-expressed CSS3 and ChPF showed not only substantial GalNAcT-II and GlcAT-II activities but also chondroitin polymerase activity. Interestingly, co-expressed ChSy-1 and CSS3 also exhibited polymerase activity. The chain length of chondroitin formed by the co-expressed proteins in various combinations was different. In addition, interactions between any two of ChSy-1, CSS3 and ChPF were demonstrated by pull-down assays. Moreover, overexpression of CSS3 increased the amount of CS in HeLa cells, while the RNA interference of CSS3 resulted in a reduction in the amount of CS in the cells. Altogether these results suggest that chondroitin polymerization is achieved by multiple combinations of ChSy-1, CSS3 and ChPF. Based on these characteristics, we have renamed CSS3 ChSy-2 (chondroitin synthase-2).
Magnetization and EPR studies of the single molecule magnet Ni4 with integrated sensors
Authors: de Loubens G. , Chaves-O’Flynn G. D. , Kent A. D. , Ramsey C. , del Barco E. , Beedle C. , Hendrickson D. N.
Published: April 2007

Integrated magnetic sensors that allow simultaneous EPR and magnetization measurements have been developed to study single molecule magnets. A high frequency microstrip resonator has been integrated with a micro-Hall effect magnetometer. EPR spectroscopy is used to determine the energy splitting between the low lying spin states of a Ni4 single crystal, with an S=4 ground state, as a function of applied fields, both longitudinal and transverse to the easy axis at 0.4K. Concurrent magnetization measurements show changes in spin population associated with microwave absorption. Such studies enable determination of the energy relaxation time of the spin system.
Anomalous specific heat and its field dependence in the magnetic polaron system: EuB6
Authors: Kim Beom Hyun , Yu Unjong , Kim Joong-Bae , Min B. I.
Published: April 2007

Employing the Monte Carlo method and the exact diagonalization method, we have investigated the magnetic and thermal properties of the magnetic polaron system near the magnetic transition temperature. We have found that the peaks of the magnetic susceptibility and the specific heat, TC and TP, appear at different positions and the percolation of the magnetic polarons occurs near TP. We have also demonstrated that these behaviors are robust in the presence of the external magnetic field.
Density functional theory for a primitive model of nanoparticle-block copolymer mixtures
Authors: Cao Dapeng , Wu Jianzhong
Published: April 2007

Amphiphilic block copolymers provide useful templates for fabrication of nanostructured materials that are appealing for a wide variety of applications. The preparation of polymer-particle hybrid materials requires a good understanding of the chemical nature and topology of the amphiphilic molecules as well as their interactions with the embedded nanoparticles. This article reports a density functional theory (DFT) for a coarse-grained model of block copolymer-nanoparticle mixtures that is able to account for the properties of particles and copolymers within a self-consistent framework. It predicts various well-organized structures that can be effectively controlled by adjusting the polymer chain length and polymer-particle interactions. Illustrative examples based on relatively short chains suggest that, in qualitative agreement with experiments, large particles tend to be excluded from a polymer brush near a solid substrate, whereas smaller particles may be dissolved. The DFT is able to capture the dispersion of large particles in the microdomain of block copolymer that is energetically favorable, but localization of smaller particles at the microdomain interfaces.
Statistical analysis of the electromechanical behavior of AgMg sheathed Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+x superconducting tapes using Weibull distributions
Authors: Mbaruku A. L. , Schwartz J.
Published: April 2007

Manufacturing of AgMg sheathed Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+x superconducting tapes involves multiple processes. Microstructural studies across tape sections have shown that the microstructure is nonuniform across the tape. These nonuniformities are largely due to manufacturing defects, even in well-controlled manufacturing processes. Consequently, the electrical and mechanical properties vary in these different sections. Here, we report results from analyzing the electromechanical properties of AgMg sheathed Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+x tapes in different sections using a statistical approach. 24 samples were studied at strains of 0%, 0.25%, and 0.349% for a total of 72 samples. The probability of electrical and mechanical failures of the tapes is then analyzed using two- and three-parameter Weibull distributions. It is found that the mechanical failure of these tapes is homogeneous, consistent with failure in the AgMg sheath, but that the electromechanical failure is inhomogeneous within the conductor and as a function of strain, indicating that this failure is dictated by failure in the inhomogeneous ceramic oxide superconducting filaments. This has important implications for the designs of superconducting magnets.
Oscillation of gate leakage current in double-gate metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors
Authors: Do V. Nam , Dollfus P.
Published: April 2007

Using the nonequilibrium Green’s function method, gate current characteristics are investigated for nanometer-scaled double-gate metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor. The mode-space approximation is, at the first stage of the calculation, used to obtain self-consistently the potential profile and the charge distribution in the structure. This solution is then used to solve the two-dimensional transport equation to extract the desired quantities. In addition to the dependence of the gate-leakage current on the gate bias and on the oxide thickness, our calculation shows the oscillation behavior of the leakage current versus the drain voltage. It is explained as the result of the strong quantization of electronic states inside the device, giving a resonant-like character to the tunneling of charges from source and drain contacts to the gates. This effect is strongly dependent on the gate length.
Finite volume approximation of the Anderson model
Authors: Nakano Fumihiko
Published: April 2007

In the Anderson model on Zd, we consider a sequence of its finite volume approximation {Hk}k and construct a set of sequences composed of the eigenvalues and eigenfunctions of {Hk} in the localized region I which converge to those of H simultaneously. For its proof, Minami’s estimate turns out to be important. This result implies that, in the localized region, each eigenfunction behaves almost independently around their centers of localization.
Effects of carbon in MgB2 thin films: Intrinsic or extrinsic
Authors: Saengdeejing A. , Saal J. E. , Wang Y. , Liu Z. K.
Published: April 2007

First-principles calculations are performed on MgB2, carbon doped MgB2, and MgB2C2. The trend of calculated lattice parameters of MgB2 with increasing carbon content agrees with bulk experiments but not with thin films produced by hybrid physical-chemical vapor deposition. In this work, the authors propose a model to explain this behavior based on the coefficients of thermal expansion of MgB2 and MgB2C2 as predicted from first principles and of graphite from literature. It is concluded that the effect of carbon on the lattice parameters of MgB2 thin films is extrinsic and due to differences of the coefficients of thermal expansion of different phases.
Structure and aggregation of a helix-forming polymer
Authors: Magee James E. , Song Zhankai , Curtis Robin A. , Lue Leo
Published: April 2007

We have studied the competition between helix formation and aggregation for a simple polymer model. We present simulation results for a system of two such polymers, examining the potential of mean force, the balance between intermolecular and intramolecular interactions, and the promotion or disruption of secondary structure brought on by the proximity of the two molecules. In particular, we demonstrate that proximity between two such molecules can stabilize secondary structure. However, for this model, observed secondary structure is not stable enough to prevent collapse of the system into an unstructured globule.
Formation of Cu–Cu interfaces with ideal adhesive strengths via room temperature pressure bonding in ultrahigh vacuum
Authors: Tadepalli Rajappa , Thompson Carl V.
Published: April 2007

Low-temperature metal-metal bonding is needed for three-dimensional circuit fabrication and other technologies. Atomic force microscope pull-off measurements were used to characterize the tensile toughness of bonds between Cu layers deposited, pressure bonded, and tested under ultrahigh vacuum (<2×10−10Torr). Works of adhesion ∼3J∕m2 were obtained at room temperature, the ideal value expected for bulklike bonding. The bond toughness was degraded to ∼0.1J∕m2 when surfaces were exposed to 10−6Torr O2 before bonding. Cu layers exposed to O2 must be bonded at 300°C or above to achieve the same toughness achieved at room temperature with clean surfaces.
Tunable quaternary states in ferromagnetic semiconductor GaMnAs single layer for memory devices
Authors: Lee Sanghoon , Shin D. Y. , Chung S. J. , Liu X. , Furdyna J. K.
Published: April 2007

The authors show that staggered asymmetric planar Hall resistance (PHR) loops observed in GaMnAs ferromagnetic semiconductor films with biaxial in-plane magnetic anisotropy result in four stable resistance states at zero magnetic field owing to the formation of a stable multidomain structure during magnetization reversal. The values of PHR can be systematically controlled by changing the direction and the scanning range of the applied magnetic field. The possibility of a quaternary memory device based on the observed four PHR states is demonstrated by obtaining consistent results in the writing process using appropriate sequences of magnetic field pulses.
Influence of thin metal base thickness on the performance of CuPc vertical organic triodes
Authors: Cheng Shiau-Shin , Yang Chuan-Yi , Chuang You-Che , Ou Chun-Wei , Wu Meng-Chyi , Lin Shih-Yen , Chan Yi-Jen
Published: April 2007

In this letter, the characteristics of vertical organic triodes fabricated by using two copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) back-to-back Schottky diodes with different metal base thicknesses are reported. The vertical organic triodes exhibit pronounced saturation regions in the output current-voltage characteristics. The common-emitter current gain reduces with increasing the Al base thickness due to the increase of recombination current at the base end resulted from the reduction of opening voids in the Al metal film. The common-emitter current gain of the device with 4.5nm thick Al base reaches 1.9 at VCE=−6V and JB=2.5mA∕cm2.
Exploration of unusual electrical properties in carbon black/binary-polymer nanocomposites
Authors: Xu Hai-Ping , Dang Zhi-Min , Yao Sheng-Hong , Jiang Mei-Juan , Wang Dayang
Published: April 2007

Ultralow percolation threshold, strong positive temperature coefficient (PTC) effect, and abnormal alternating current electrical behaviors were obtained in ternary nanocomposites consisting of polypropylene (PP) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) (volume ratio: 1∕1) loaded with different amounts of nanosized carbon black (CB). These unusual properties could be assigned mainly to the special formation of electrically double-percolation network, the consecutive volume expansion of (PP-PVDF) cocontinuous phase, and the tunnel conduction between CB clusters. Both the low percolation threshold and the strong PTC effect should make the (CB-PP)/PVDF nanocomposites one of the most promising functional dielectric materials.
Fabrication and characteristics of a metal/ferroelectric/polycrystalline silicon/insulator/silicon field effect transistor
Authors: Cai Daolin , Li Ping , Zhang Shuren , Zhai Yahong , Ruan Aiwu , Ou Yangfan , Chen Yanyu , Wu Dongshen
Published: April 2007

A n-channel metal/ferroelectric/polycrystalline silicon/insulator/silicon structure field effect transistor (FET) with a Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 ferroelectric layer has been proposed and demonstrated. The Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 ferroelectric layer (200nm) was deposited by radio frequency magnetron sputtering. The counterclockwise drain current–gate voltage (Id-Vg) hysteresis loops of the ferroelectric FET demonstrate the memory effect of the device. The counterclockwise hysteresis loops are attributed to the ferroelectric polarization of the Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 film. The memory window measured from the Id-Vg characteristics is about 2.6V as the Vg sweeps between −5 and +5V. The endurance characteristics of the device have been investigated.
Vitamin E and selenium status of sheep during autumn in Western Australia and its relationship to the incidence of apparent white muscle disease
Authors: White C. L. , Rewell L.
Published: April 2007

This paper reports on the status of vitamin E and selenium in weaner and adult sheep in Western Australia (WA) during autumn, and its relationship to the incidence of apparent white muscle disease (WMD). A survey was conducted in which blood samples were taken from 10 weaner sheep (8–12 months of age) and 10 adult ewes (3 years of age) from flocks on 38 properties within the main southern agricultural region of WA, an area carrying ~10 million sheep. Deficiency of vitamin E was defined as a plasma α-tocopherol concentration less than 0.7 mg/L. Selenium deficiency was defined as whole blood glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity less than 50 U/L. Incidence and severity of apparent WMD were defined in terms of elevated plasma activities of creatine kinase (CK) or aspartate aminotransaminase (AST). Of the weaner flocks, 58% (22/38) had mean plasma vitamin E concentrations in the deficient range (<0.7 mg/L) and 50% (19/38) had mean CK activities above 400 U/L (mild WMD); four of these flocks had mean CK activities over 1200 U/L (severe WMD). Of all the individual weaner sheep sampled, 6% had plasma CK activities >1200 U/L. It is likely that the incidence of vitamin E deficiency would have been higher had it not been for unseasonal summer rain germinating pasture on eight of the survey farms in the northern wheat belt. Flocks from farms with an evident green flush to their pastures had higher vitamin E levels than flocks grazing dry pasture. Vitamin E deficiency was less common in adult sheep than weaner sheep, with only 16% of flocks (6/38) having mean plasma concentrations below 0.7 mg/L and 11% (4/38) with CK values above 400 U/L. Selenium deficiency was less common than vitamin E deficiency and was mostly confined to adult flocks, with only 5% (2/38) of these having mean GPx values below the critical value of 50 U/g haemoglobin. For both weaner and adult sheep classed as vitamin E deficient, CK and AST activity in plasma was best described by a combination of plasma vitamin E concentration and whole blood activity of GPx (significant linear step wise regression, P < 0.001). The present study shows that subclinical vitamin E deficiency (<0.7 mg/L) was widespread in weaner flocks in WA during autumn and that, based on the biochemical data, deficiency was associated with apparent severe muscle damage in 6% of weaner sheep sampled. Recommended strategies to treat weaner sheep showing signs of WMD include dosing with 2000–4000 mg vitamin E either by injection, oral drench or by spraying it onto supplementary grain. The level and frequency of dosing depends upon the severity of the WMD symptoms. Less is known about preventative treatment, but recent evidence suggests that providing weaner sheep with access to saltbush during autumn may prove to be a practically useful strategy. Selenium supplements should also be supplied to weaner and adult sheep in areas known to be selenium deficient.
The effect of 3BS locus of Sumai 3 on Fusarium head blight resistance in Australian wheats
Authors: Xie G. Q. , Zhang M. C. , Chakraborty S. , Liu C. J.
Published: April 2007

The 3BS allele of Sumai 3 has been the main source of Fusarium head blight (FHB) resistance worldwide. Using molecular markers and FHB resistance screenings, we have analysed the effects of this allele in two backcross and two 4-way F2 populations derived from elite Australian cultivars. Compared to individuals without the Sumai 3 allele, individuals with the allele showed an average 32.0% reduction in FHB severity as measured by number of diseased spikelets. This value was slightly reduced to 29.2% when the total number of spikelets was taken into account by expressing severity as the proportion of diseased spikelets. When compared to the parental cultivars, progeny with the 3BS allele of Sumai 3 offered, on average, 43.3% reduction in FHB severity. Significant differences were not detected between progeny that were homozygous or heterozygous for the 3BS locus, indicating a dominant inheritance of this locus. These results confirm that the 3BS allele controls a large component of the FHB resistance in Sumai 3, which can be readily incorporated and detected in backcross populations using molecular markers. The materials derived from this study could offer significant benefits to the Australian wheat breeding programs.
Yield components of nodulated cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and maize (Zea mays) plants grown with exogenous phosphorus in different cropping systems
Authors: Ndakidemi Patrick A. , Dakora Felix D.
Published: April 2007

A 2-factorial experiment, involving three levels of phosphorus (0, 40, and 80 kg/ha) and four cropping systems (mono crop, maize–cowpea inter-row, maize–cowpea intra-row, and maize–cowpea intra-hole cropping) was conducted in the field for two consecutive years in 2003 and 2004 at Nietvoorbij (33°54′S, 18°14′E), Stellenbosch, South Africa. Plant density (number of plants per hectare) was 166 666 for sole cowpea, 111 111 for maize–cowpea inter-row, 55 555 for maize–cowpea intra-row and 55 555 for maize–cowpea intra-hole cropping. Applying 40 or 80 kg phosphorus (P)/ha significantly increased cowpea grain yields by 59–65% in 2003 and 44–55% in 2004. With maize, the increases in grain yield were 20–37% in 2003 and 48–55% in 2004 relative to the zero-P control. In both cropping seasons, the number of pod-bearing peduncles per plant, the number of pods per plant, the number of seeds per pod, and grain yield per cowpea plant were significantly increased with the application of exogenous P. In contrast, the number of pod-bearing peduncles per plant, the number of pods per plant, the number of seeds per pod, and the grain yield per plant were all significantly depressed by mixed culture relative to mono crop cowpea. There was also a significant interactive effect of P and cropping system on cowpea, such that, all cowpea yield components were generally lower in intercrop relative to mono crop. In all instances, the yield component of mono crop cowpea and, to some extent, inter-row cowpea, were markedly increased by the provision of 40 or 80 kg P/ha relative to the zero-P control. Intercropping maize with cowpea produced higher total yields per unit land area than the mono crop counterpart.
Feeding concentrates based on individual cow requirements improves the yield of milk solids in dairy cows grazing restricted pasture
Authors: García S. C. , Pedernera M. , Fulkerson W. J. , Horadagoda A. , Nandra K.
Published: April 2007

A grazing experiment involving 50 lactating Holstein–Friesian dairy cows was conducted to test the hypothesis that feeding concentrates (range 3–7 kg as fed/cow.day; average 5 kg/cow.day) to grazing cows based on individual (I) cow requirements would increase milk solids yield in comparison to fixed rate (F) allocation to the whole herd (average 5 kg/cow.day for all cows). The experiment comprised two sequential periods that differed only in the way maize silage was offered to cows (either 100% on a feed pad at night or 75% on a feed pad at night, with 25% in a paddock in the morning). Intake of individual cows was estimated using the 13C and n-alkanes method. The rumen degradability of the feeds (lucerne pasture, maize silage and commercial dairy pellets) was measured in parallel, using six rumen-fistulated sheep. Compared with cows in the F group, milk yield and milk fat yield for the I cows increased (P < 0.05) by 3.0 and 11.1%, respectively. As neither milk protein content nor milk protein yield was affected (P > 0.05) by treatment, total milk solids yield (milk fat plus milk protein) was 7.0% higher (P < 0.05) for I cows than for F cows. The increase in milk fat yield was presumably associated with an improved diet nutrient balance in the I cows, as indicated by a significant correlation between fibre intake and milk fat yield for cows in the I group but not for cows in the F group. This is also supported by the results of the rumen degradability of the feeds. In this study, higher-producing cows compensated for their higher requirements by increasing intake of maize silage, rather than pasture, as the former was the less restricted feed on offer. This highlights the importance of offering at least one feed to cows in a less restricted way, in order to enable high-producing cows in the herd to compensate for their higher intake requirements. In conclusion, under the conditions of the present study, feeding concentrates to cows based on individual cow requirements increased milk solids yield at no extra cost.
Optimal use of on-farm fibre diameter measurement and its impact on reproduction in commercial Merino flocks
Authors: Kelly M. J. , Swan A. A. , Atkins K. D.
Published: April 2007

The use of on-farm measurement of fibre diameter in clip preparation and selection was examined using a stochastic simulation. Commercial self-replacing Merino flocks were simulated, with each flock equivalent in stocking rate to a 2500-ewe flock with an average fibre diameter of 19 µm (with the same energy requirements as 4250 50-kg dry sheep). Returns from each selection and clip preparation strategy were based on a 5-year period from 1998 to 2003. The percentage of sales where it would have been profitable to utilise fibre diameter measurement in wool classing declined from 84% to less than 1% in 19- and 25-µm flocks, respectively. Clip preparation benefits reduced from AU$5.52 to $1.46 per dry sheep equivalent as the mean fibre diameter of the flock increased from 19 to 25 µm (under random selection). Selection on either fibre diameter or selection index (12% micron premium based on fibre diameter and fleece weight) was of benefit for 19- and 21-µm flocks, but not broader fibre diameter flocks. Flock reproductive performance was simulated at the individual animal level, based on the traits of fertility (ewes lambing per ewe joined), litter size (lambs born per ewe lambing) and lamb survival (lambs weaned per lamb born). These traits were simulated with genetic components, allowing the investigation of correlated responses in reproduction traits. Single-trait selection on fibre diameter did not significantly impact on reproduction traits but did reduce fibre diameter, fleece weight and bodyweight. There was a large variation in the returns from clip preparation, as the mean fibre diameter of the flock increased, and over selling periods, highlighting the importance of understanding the current market conditions and their relationship with the flock mean fibre diameter when considering the use of fibre diameter in clip preparation.
Experiments to identify the causes of spam
Authors: Ahmed Tanzila , Oppenheim Charles
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to show how spam is generated and what methods have been proposed to combat it.

Design/methodology/approach

An experiment whereby a number of e‐mail accounts using different ISPs were set up and then checked for spam over a period of nine weeks. The results were compared to two pre‐existing e‐mail accounts. The types of spam received were classified into broad headings.

Findings

Financial spam was the biggest single type of spam received, with health‐related spam second. The growth in spam over time was noted, as was the volumes of spam received by different Internet Service Providers. The effects of using “obvious” names versus unusual ones in the e‐mail address were measured, as were those of using spam‐filtering software. In the former case, no significant differences were found, but filtering software certainly helped to reduce the volume of spam received. Active involvement in a pornographic site did not, surprisingly, greatly influence the amount of spam received. The biggest single factors affecting the volume of spam received are the length of time the e‐mail account has been active and the use, or non‐use of filtering software. It is by no means certain that responding to spam increases the volume of spam received.

Research limitations/implications

The research was conducted over a relatively small time period and small number of accounts were examined.

Practical implications

Methods of combating spam and some urban myths about it are examined.

Originality/value

To those tasked with dealing with spam, the paper provides some ideas on the scale of the problem and how to address it.
The role of enhanced visual inspections in the new strategy for corrosion management
Authors: Komorowski Jerzy P. , Forsyth David S.
Published: April 2007

The current corrosion maintenance philosophy reflected in aviation regulations and recommended practices does not stimulate progress in corrosion related technology. A US Air Force (USAF)‐sponsored survey has recommended re‐examination of corrosion maintenance policies and practices to identify lower cost alternatives, and has encouraged research into tools and techniques that reduce maintenance costs while preserving safety. In particular, these include models to predict the impact of existing corrosion damage on structural integrity, methods of predicting corrosion growth rates and nondestructive inspection systems capable of providing corrosion metrics. The Institute for Aerospace Research of the National Research Council Canada (IAR/NRC) has pioneered work on the application of enhanced visual methods for corrosion detection in lap joints and the assessment of the impact of corrosion on lap‐joint structural integrity. The role of these enhanced visual methods in the new corrosion management is described.
Optimising the corrosion protective abilities of lamellar micaceous iron oxide containing primers
Authors: Giúdice Carlos A. , Benítez Juan C.
Published: April 2007

Lamellar micaceous iron oxide paints are successfully employed to provide longlife corrosion protection for metallic structures when exposed to highly aggressive environments. The aim of this work was to formulate and manufacture lamellar micaceous iron oxide paints, able to be used on the protection of steel structures exposed to water. Several formulation and manufacture variables were taken into account. Many paint films fail when they are saturated with moisture and blistering is a common failure because primers usually are not designed to allow the liquid to dissipate back out through the film. Consequently the film can not resist the formation of projections which result in local adhesion loss. For maximum durability, primers must be properly formulated and manufactured. Film permeability, which depends on paint composition (pigment volume concentration) and micaceous iron oxide dispersion time, seems to be the key characteristic controlling subsequent coating performance. Laboratory results indicated that lamellar micaceous iron oxide is a pigment which provides an anticorrosive action by providing a barrier effect. Film permeability must be compatible so as to attain a satisfactory rusting and blistering resistance.
Comparison of the corrosion inhibition efficiencies of the ATMP‐molybdate system and the ATMP‐molybdate‐Zn2+ system
Authors: Rajendran Susai , Apparao B.V. , Periasamy V. , Karthikeyan G. , Palaniswamy N.
Published: April 2007

The formulation consisting of 50ppm ATMP and 300ppm MoO42‐ had only 32 per cent efficiency in inhibiting the corrosion of mild steel immersed in a neutral aqueous environment containing 60ppm C1‐, whereas the ATMP (50ppm) ‐ MoO42‐ (300ppm) ‐ Zn2+ (50ppm) system had 96 per cent inhibition efficiency. The lower inhibition efficiency in the former case was due to the dissolution of the protective film formed on the metal surface, and getting precipitated in the bulk of the solution; this system controlled the anodic reaction only. The latter system controlled both the anodic and cathodic reactions; the dissolution of the protective film formed on the metal surface was reduced to a greater extent.
Contributory factors to the spread of contamination in a model kitchen
Authors: Meredith Lucy , Lewis Roger , Haslum Mary
Published: April 2007

Artificial contamination of chicken pieces with bioluminescent E. coli DH5a (pLITE 27) was used to examine the relationship between food hygiene interventions and the extent of contamination in a model kitchen. Analysis showed that, during the preparation of chicken casserole, bacteria were widely disseminated throughout the kitchen and equipment used. Food hygiene interventions were shown to reduce the extent of contamination. Demonstrates that effective cleaning and hand washing are important in preventing cross‐contamination in the domestic kitchen.
McDonald’s: “think global, act local” – the marketing mix
Authors: Vignali Claudio
Published: April 2007

Focuses on the marketing mix of McDonald’s. Highlights how the company combines internationalisation and globalisation elements according to various fast food markets. Using the effect of strategical and tactical models, the case illustrates the effect of McDonald’s on the global environment and how they adapt to local communities. Describes future franchise plans for McDonald’s.
Food safety risk
Authors: Yeung Ruth M.W. , Morris Joe
Published: April 2007

Food safety has become a major issue of public concern, encouraging the UK Government and the food industry to take steps to rebuild consumer confidence. In this context, the paper draws on a review of research literature to develop a conceptual framework to identify and review the factors influencing consumer perception of food safety related risks and the likely impact on purchasing behaviour. The relevance of strategies adopted by consumers to reduce risk exposure and the influence on the likelihood of food purchase are also explored, together with the implication for the food industry.
Psychological, attitudinal and behavioural characteristics of Irish speciality cheese customers
Authors: McCarthy M. , O’Reilly S. , Cronin M.
Published: April 2007

This research explores the role of innovativeness and involvement constructs and associated attitudinal and behavioural traits, in profiling customers in dynamic markets. Customer behaviour in the Irish cheese market was investigated, with a particular focus on the dynamic “speciality cheese” product category. A greater percentage of speciality cheese customers were found to be innovative within the cheese domain compared with non‐buyers. The speciality cheese customers also displayed higher levels of enduring involvement than the non‐speciality cheese customer. Reported attitudes reinforced these psychological traits. Speciality cheese customers had a broader knowledge of cheese products than non‐buyers and also indicated a preference for a greater number of cheeses. The behaviour of speciality cheese customers in the marketplace reflected these attitudes and tendencies. They shopped in a wide variety of retail outlets, spent more money on cheeses, and consumed a variety of cheeses. They are typically aware of a number of cheese brands and are not brand loyal, but compare and often buy different brands.
Food Authenticity
Authors: Roberts D.C.E.
Published: April 2007

Food adulteration is as old as the marketing of food. Discusses the work
of the Ministry of Food working party on food authenticity who are
working to develop tests to enable some modern food frauds being
perpetrated to be detected. Comments too on recent reports on detecting
fraud in fish products, emanating from the Steering Group on Chemical
Aspects of Food Surveillance. Highlights examples of modern and old
style frauds.
The electronic library: a review
Authors: Joint Nick , Law Derek
Published: April 2007

A number of distinct types of “electronic library” now exist. The term has shed the vagueness with which it has been used in the past. Moreover, certain forms of electronic library service will prove more effective and durable than others. The most successful form of electronic library will reproduce the functionality of the traditional library, but must also fully exploit the unique features of electronic information provision.
Issues of censorship
Authors: Hannabuss Stuart , Allard Mary
Published: April 2007

Censorship never dies: like intellectual freedom of which it is a part, it goes on changing its form. The discussion reviews some of the key social, political, religious, artistic and moral factors, suggests that censorship is an area which pre‐eminently brings out the worst and best because it is more complex than it looks, because consensus is rare, because everyone thinks they are right, and because professional and personal roles work together and sometimes get confused. Statements about intellectual freedom and rights are aspirational for practitioners trying to make personal decisions about what is acceptable and accountable. Reference is made to political correctness, alleged harms, community standards, and the role of the information professional as an intermediary.
The need for a library and information policy in Sierra Leone
Authors: Abdul Kargbo John
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To argue for the development and implementation of a national library and information policy in Sierra Leone.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is an opinion piece discussing the current situation in the country and proposing a new model.

Findings

That Sierra Leone would greatly benefit from a national policy that could aid development in the post‐war period.

Practical implications

The paper offers a model for the implementation of a national policy.

Originality/value

The paper is the first paper to argue for a national policy for Sierra Leone.
Feeding minds and bodies: the Edwardian context of school meals
Authors: Colquhoun Anne , Lyon Phil , Alexander Emily
Published: April 2007

School meals were developed because of charitable, and subsequently official, concern about the effects of poverty on children’s capacity to benefit from education. Superficially, one might regard Edwardian interventions – in the early part of the twentieth century – as a historical footnote to today’s issues. In fact, this period of UK history was notable for attempts to find solutions to problems that are still relevant. Despite appearances to the contrary, child poverty has not been eliminated in the UK of today and the recent reintroduction of nutritional standards for school meals in the UK is an important reminder that feeding bodies remains crucial to feeding minds. In this article we map social concern expressed in contemporary studies of Dundee, York and London, the impact of army recruitment problems, and the initiation of a school meals policy in Scotland and England. We conclude with an assessment of the issues and solutions as they relate to the UK in the early twenty‐first century.
Children in Focus
Authors: Wells Dilys
Published: April 2007

Presents new findings in the field of nutrition research from the
conference, Children in Focus, organized by the National Dairy Council.
Expert speakers address vital issues on how children feel and learn
about food and how to persuade them to improve their diets.
The Chemistry of Pastry Products
Authors: Patient David
Published: April 2007

Looks at the most commonly occurring types of pastry and their
preparation. Puff pastry is used mainly for pie tops and vol‐au‐vent
cases and shortcrust is used widely for sweet and savoury goods.
Examines the composition, function of ingredients, methods of
manufacture and different pastry structures.
Vitamin B6
Authors: Bender David A.
Published: April 2007

Average intakes of vitamin B6are equal to, or greater than, reference nutrient intakes and clinical deficiency disease due to inadequate dietary intake is unknown. Although there is little scientific evidence of efficacy, the vitamin is widely recommended for treatment of premenstrual syndrome at levels of 50‐100mg/day (compared with reference nutrient intakes of under 2mg/day). At higher levels of intake (over 1,000mg/day), there is clear evidence of nerve damage, and there have been reports of symptoms of nerve damage in people taking between 50‐100mg/day.
Food allergies and intolerances: an update
Authors: Blades Mabel
Published: April 2007

Notes that people with food allergies and intolerances may not always receive great sympathy from health professionals. Underlines the importance of treating these problems seriously and sets out definitions of intolerance, allergy and aversion. Outlines a range of disorders such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis where food allergy or intolerance may be implicated, and also looks at a range of foods which seem to cause problems. Lists methods of diagnosis for food allergy and intolerance and concludes that the number of sufferers is increasing.
Process optimisation using Taguchi methods of experimental design
Authors: Antony Jiju , Warwood Steve , Fernandes Kiran , Rowlands Hefin
Published: April 2007

Experimental design (ED) is a powerful technique which involves the process of planning and designing an experiment so that appropriate data can be collected and then analysed by statistical methods, resulting in objective and valid conclusions. It is an alternative to the traditional inefficient and unreliable one‐factor‐at‐a‐time approach to experimentation, where an experimenter generally varies one factor or process parameter at a time keeping all other factors at a constant level. This paper presents a step‐by‐step approach to the optimisation of a production process (of retaining a metal ring in a plastic body by a hot forming method) through the utilisation of Taguchi methods of experimental design. The experiment enabled the behaviour of the system to be understood by the engineering team in a short period of time and resulted in significantly improved performance (with the opportunity to design further experiments for possible greater improvements).
A model for global manufacturing excellence
Authors: Ng K.C. , Wai Hung Ip
Published: April 2007

Over the past decade, increasing global competition has led ambitious organizations to strive for “manufacturing excellence”. Manufacturers have adopted strategies which attach priority to external growth and strengthen the activities in which they are in a dominant position, seeking to achieve critical size. Speed, quality, service, flexibility and global focus are identified as the essential elements for successful manufacturing for the next decade. Manufacturers are measured by their ability to respond quickly to sudden, often unpredictable changes in customer needs and wants. This paper describes a model for the implementation of competitive manufacturing strategies, consistent with a company’s overall business strategy. The model aims to assist manufacturers in enhancing productivity, improving delivery times, reducing manufacturing costs and upgrading product quality by means of a systematic and practical approach. Results from use of the model indicate that manufacturers can significantly differentiate themselves from their competitors; and that quality, cost and delivery can all be improved. A case study is presented to illustrate the use of the model in developing a manufacturing strategy, and the identification and implementation of major strategic projects.
Work measurement – the basic principles revisited
Authors: Baines Anna
Published: April 2007

In these days of total quality management, business process
re‐engineering, etc. it is easy to forget tried and tested approaches to
productivity and performance measurement and improvement. Work
measurement, for example, has been around for many years but still can
be extremely effective in informing us of the working times, and delays,
inherent in different ways of carrying out work.