bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Arabidopsis Phage-Type RNA Polymerases: Accurate in Vitro Transcription of Organellar Genes
Authors: Kühn Kristina , Bohne Alexandra-Viola , Liere Karsten , Weihe Andreas , Börner Thomas 
Published: March 2007

Abstract
The T7 bacteriophage RNA polymerase (RNAP) performs all steps of transcription, including promoter recognition, initiation, and elongation as a single-polypeptide enzyme. Arabidopsis thaliana possesses three nuclear-encoded T7 phage-type RNAPs that localize to mitochondria (RpoTm), plastids (RpoTp), or presumably both organelles (RpoTmp). Their specific functions are as yet unresolved. We have established an in vitro transcription system to examine the abilities of the three Arabidopsis phage-type RNAPs to synthesize RNA and to recognize organellar promoters. All three RpoT genes were shown to encode transcriptionally active RNAPs. RpoTmp displayed no significant promoter specificity, whereas RpoTm and RpoTp were able to accurately initiate transcription from overlapping subsets of mitochondrial and plastidial promoters without the aid of protein cofactors. Our study strongly suggests RpoTm to be the enzyme that transcribes most, if not all, mitochondrial genes in Arabidopsis. Intrinsic promoter specificity, a feature that RpoTm and RpoTp share with the T7 RNAP, appears to have been conserved over the long period of evolution of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial and plastidial RNAPs. Selective promoter recognition by the Arabidopsis phage-type RNAPs in vitro implies that auxiliary factors are required for efficient initiation of transcription in vivo.
Genome-Wide Analysis of the RNA-DEPENDENT RNA POLYMERASE6/DICER-LIKE4 Pathway inArabidopsisReveals Dependency on miRNA- and tasiRNA-Directed Targeting
Authors: Howell Miya D. , Fahlgren Noah , Chapman Elisabeth J. , Cumbie Jason S. , Sullivan Christopher M. , Givan Scott A. , Kasschau Kristin D. , Carrington James C. 
Published: March 2007

AbstractPosttranscriptional RNA silencing of many endogenous transcripts, viruses, and transgenes involves the RNA-DEPENDENT RNA POLYMERASE6/DICER-LIKE4 (RDR6/DCL4)-dependent short interfering RNA (siRNA) biogenesis pathway. Arabidopsis thaliana contains several families of trans-acting siRNAs (tasiRNAs) that form in 21-nucleotide phased arrays through the RDR6/DCL4-dependent pathway and that negatively regulate target transcripts. Using deep sequencing technology and computational approaches, the phasing patterns of known tasiRNAs and tasiRNA-like loci from across the Arabidopsis genome were analyzed in wild-type plants and silencing-defective mutants. Several gene transcripts were found to be routed through the RDR6/DCL4-dependent pathway after initial targeting by one or multiple miRNAs or tasiRNAs, the most conspicuous example of which was an expanding clade of genes encoding pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins. Interestingly, phylogenetic analysis using Populus trichocarpa revealed evidence for small RNA–mediated regulatory mechanisms within a similarly expanded group of PPR genes. We suggest that posttranscriptional silencing mechanisms operate on an evolutionary scale to buffer the effects of rapidly expanding gene families.
Elaboration of B Gene Function to Include the Identity of Novel Floral Organs in the Lower EudicotAquilegia
Authors: Kramer Elena M. , Holappa Lynn , Gould Billie , Jaramillo M. Alejandra , Setnikov Dimitriy , Santiago Philip M. 
Published: March 2007

AbstractThe basal eudicot Aquilegia (columbine) has an unusual floral structure that includes two morphologically distinct whorls of petaloid organs and a clearly differentiated fifth organ type, the staminodium. In this study, we have sought to determine how Aquilegia homologs of the B class genes APETALA3 (AP3) and PISTILLATA (PI) contribute to these novel forms of organ identity. Detailed expression analyses of the three AP3 paralogs and one PI homolog in wild-type and floral homeotic mutant lines reveal complex patterns that suggest that canonical B class function has been elaborated in Aquilegia. Yeast two-hybrid studies demonstrate that the protein products of Aquilegia's AP3 and PI homologs can form heterodimers, much like what has been observed for their core eudicot homologs. Downregulation of AqvPI using virus-induced gene silencing indicates that in addition to petal and stamen identity, this locus is essential to staminodial identity but may not control the identity of the petaloid sepals. Our findings show that preexisting floral organ identity programs can be partitioned and modified to produce additional organ types. In addition, they indicate that some types of petaloid organs are not entirely dependent on AP3/PI homologs for their identity.
Librarians and ethical neutrality: revisiting The Creed of a Librarian
Authors: McMenemy David 
Published: April 2007

PurposeTo discuss whether in an age of misinformation on the Internet, calls for censorship, continuing ethnic and religious conflict throughout the world, librarians can be ethically neutral in all service encounters with patrons.Design/methodology/approachAs a review paper, it approaches the topic from a discussion of current trends in the profession vs the historical text in question.FindingsThat although Foskett posited theories that proposed a strengthening of the professional practice of librarianship, his ideas could be criticised in the modern era for placing ethical neutrality above responsibility to society, as suggested by Hauptman. Yet such criticism needs to be tempered with the notion that a profession must represent a set of values, and Foskett's call for the profession to embrace a philosophy of practice remains an important point for modern librarians.Practical implicationAs a review paper, the practical implications would be in the consideration of the content in the mind of practitioners facing potential ethical dilemmas.Originality/valueThe value of the paper is in the re‐examination of ethical debates that have been occurring in the library profession for the past 80 years.
On reading “The banning of books in libraries”
Authors: Burton Paul F. 
Published: April 2007

PurposeTo reflect on an editorial from an earlier issue entitled “The banning of books in libraries”.Design/methodology/approachA discussion of the argument presented in the original editorial and its connection to present‐day concerns over the use and dissemination of information and links to other issues, together with the maintenance of a professional ethos in the face of those concerns.FindingsA set of moral absolutes does exist from which librarians can derive an ethos for the operation of their services. Such absolutes take on a greater significance in the complex moral climate in which we now live, but are now under threat.Practical implicationsThis article calls on library and information professionals to maintain their stand in the face of increasing pressures to compromise attitudes.Originality/valueReflects on the continuing (and increased) importance of professional values.
Is Google the answer? A study into usability of search engines
Authors: Dudek Debra , Mastora Anna , Landoni Monica 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss the importance of usability and overall user satisfaction when comparing performance of different search engines.Design/methodology/approachThe study described in this paper starts from an investigation of existing methodologies for evaluating search engines in order to find out what are the most important factors for users to decide which system to use when searching the World Wide Web.FindingsThis study confirmed that usability and popularity are closely linked. This study has shown that no one‐search engine holds the key to ultimate search results. Just as there is cultural, political and geographical differences in the world's population, there are a number of search engines to fit the individual needs of every net citizen. Whereas results, precision, recall and reliability are the factors which participants prize highly, regardless of all other aspects. It was found that the speed of search engine results has become a high priority to participants.Research limitations/implicationsNumber of participants was limited and although some questions were confusing to some individuals, a majority of questionnaires were completed in a satisfactory fashion.Originality/valueThis paper describes a usability study involving different search engines looking at links between popularity and usability.
Measuring service quality in an academic library: an Indian case study
Authors: Sahu Ashok Kumar 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe aim of this study is to measure the perceptions of the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) library users as they relate to quality service and to determine how far the JNU library has succeeded in delivering such service to its users.Design/methodology/approachThe research was carried out among the students and faculty members of the JNU. A questionnaire was used as the data gathering instrument. The instruments for data collection consisted of structured questions. All the closed ended questions were designed to elicit responses on a five point Likert scale to measure both respondent satisfaction and perception of service quality. Analysis of the collected data made use of the chi‐square method.FindingsThe results would appear to indicate that the JNU library is not lacking in quality of service. However, we need to note that quality information service is about helping users to define and satisfy their information needs, building their confidence in using information retrieval systems, and making the whole activity of working with library staff a pleasurable experience. To achieve total quality in information service the JNU library should provide a comprehensive information programme that is predicated on the needs and activities of the users.Originality/valueThis study may help those libraries, who are seriously interested to develop user satisfaction and provide better service to the user. This study also suggests some recommendations about increasing the user satisfaction in the library service.
Logistics sophistication, manufacturing segments and the choice of logistics providers
Authors: Wanke Peter , Arkader Rebecca , Fernanda Hijjar Maria 
Published: April 2007

PurposeTo investigate the relationship between the choice of integrated or functional logistics providers by Brazilian shippers and: the type of their manufacturing process structure, and the level of sophistication of their logistics function, as well as the impact on that choice of possible interactions between these two characteristics of the shippers.Design/methodology/approachData were collected in a comprehensive survey on the use of 3PL service providers in Brazil using a sample of 93 large Brazilian shippers; The analysis tests three research questions on the individual and combined relationships of logistics sophistication, measured on a logistics sophistication index (LSI), and process type (according to Goldratt's V‐A‐T classification for materials flow analysis) with the choice of type of 3PL provider; the methods of analysis were cluster and logistics regression analysis.FindingsThe paper finds: support for an association of sophisticated logistics functions and a preference for integrated 3PLs; support for an association between the A‐type production process structure and preference for integrated 3PLs; and of V and T types for functional 3PLs. However, it also finds that shippers with type T process structure and more sophisticated logistics tend to favor integrated 3PLs.Research limitations/implicationsOne limitation is that logistics performance is not considered; future studies may further refine the proposed framework for segmentation.Practical implicationsThe paper advocates the use of models by providers to segment their customers, and better understanding by shippers of prevailing trends in logistics outsourcing according to their process structure and characteristics of their logistics function.Originality/valueThe paper unveils significant relationships between shipper sophistication of logistics function, manufacturing process structures, and the choice of type of 3PL. It also proposes a new framework for segmenting the 3PL service provider market in terms of sophistication of the logistics function and the logistics task implied by the type of operation.
Teleoperated assembly of a micro‐lens system by means of a micro‐manipulation workstation
Authors: Eisinberg Anna , Menciassi Arianna , Dario Paolo , Seyfried Joerg , Estana Ramon , Woern Heinz 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe aim of the research is to perform an accurate micromanipulation task, the assembly of a lens system, implementing safe procedures in a flexible microrobot‐based workstation for micromanipulation.Design/methodology/approachThe approach to the micromanipulation research issue consists in designing and building a micromanipulation station based on mobile microrobots, with 5 degrees of freedom and a size of a few cm3, capable of moving and manipulating by the use of tube‐shaped and multilayered piezo‐actuators. Controlled by visual and force/tactile sensor information, the micro‐robot is able to perform manipulation with a motion resolution down to 10 nm in a telemanipulated or semi‐automated mode, thus freeing human operators from the difficult task of handling minuscule objects directly. Equipped with purposely‐developed grippers, the robot can take over high‐precise grasping, transport, manipulation and positioning of mechanical or biological micro‐objects. A computer system using PC‐compatible hardware components ensures the robot operation in real‐time.FindingsThe robots and the grippers described in this paper are highly interesting tools. Even if each specific application may require specific modifications, the proposed solution is extremely versatile, due to the ability to manipulate with a very large stroke (being the size of the base the robot works on) with a very high motion resolution. These positive aspects do make the robots very suitable also for working in a scanning electron microscope, for wafer inspection in a laboratory, and so on.Research limitations/implicationsFuture work will include modifications to the existing system in order to enhance the flexibility of the workstation: e.g. other robots and other tools with different characteristics will be designed and fabricated. Research efforts will be devoted in particular to further miniaturization of the actuators.Practical implicationsThis workstation can be used as a platform for assembling novel prototypes, and as a test bench for testing new assembly procedures or new products, e.g. the lens assembly procedure described in this work, even if not suitable for mass production, was useful to assess the performance of the two‐lenses assembly system itself, compared to standard systems with just one lens.Originality/valueThe system proves that the development of mobile micro‐robots is a promising approach to realise very small and flexible tools useful for different applications. By means of its intuitive teleoperation mode, the system enables the user to work in the micro‐world; due to the force feedback the user is almost immersed into the micro‐world and gets a sense for the handled object.
Libraries as repositories of popular culture: is popular culture still forgotten?
Authors: Holley Robert P. , Heinrichs John H. 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to replicate a study done in 1992 on the bibliographic availability of 55 popular culture periodicals sold by a Kroger supermarket in Royal Oak, Michigan. The earlier study asked the question whether time might be a relevant variable for the number of holding libraries.Design/methodology/approachThe authors searched WorldCat for the number of reported library holdings for the same 55 popular culture periodicals and analyzed the results.FindingsDuring both periods, 34 periodicals with holdings had a median increase of 58.4 percent; but, when the 83.5 percent increase in OCLC governing members during the same period was taken into account, holdings had a median decrease of 13.7 percent. For the 19 cases with no library holdings in 1992, eight (42.1 percent) now had library holdings, including several high circulation periodicals such as Star and Soap Opera Weekly.Practical implicationsPopular culture materials read by many Americans are still not widely available in libraries or are not entered into WorldCat, the prime source for bibliographic holdings.Originality/valueThis paper provides additional statistical evidence on the availability of popular culture materials in libraries.
Growth in the specialist mortgage market
Authors: Shave Colin 
Published: April 2007

PurposeReviews the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.Design/methodology/approachThis briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.FindingsThe UK mortgage market has undergone huge changes in recent years, as the social demographic has evolved and divided. New market sectors are coming of age with consumers within those sectors having their own unique needs, requirements and limitations. When these new customer types emerge new niche markets are created. Those lenders and finance providers able to grasp and embrace such changes, are the lenders who are most likely to succeed.Practical implicationsProvides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.Originality/valueAs consumers' lending requirements become ever broader in the future, it is the lenders that remain flexible, knowledgeable and above all committed to their market, that are most likely to be successful in gaining the trust and business of consumers.
Links between justice, satisfaction and performance in the workplace
Authors: Mohyeldin Tahir Suliman Abubakr 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the nature, strength and significance of the links between organisational justice, job satisfaction and work performance.Design/methodology/approachUsing a self‐administered questionnaire 1,500 employees from 29 organisations were surveyed in order to examine the five main hypotheses of the study.FindingsThe study results revealed that employees' perceptions of justice influence their work performance and that job satisfaction plays a partial role in mediating this effect and influencing work performance.Practical implicationsThe theoretical and managerial implications of the results are discussed in the paper, together with some recommendations for managing justice, satisfaction and performance in today's diverse work teams and environments.Originality/valueThe paper examines the above mentioned links for the first time in the UAE and the Arabic context.
A role‐based perspective on leadership as a network of relationships
Authors: Sheard A.G. , Kakabadse A.P. 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe research described in this article seeks to address the question of the extent to which a role‐based perspective can provide insight into the distributed and networked form of leadership.Design/methodology/approachA model provides insight into the distributed and networked form of leadership, and the roles that executives can adopt in formal, informal or temporary groups within the organisation's overall senior management team. The methodology adopted is qualitative, focusing on inquiry‐based learning which enabled the authors to gather data on those aspects of the social structure within which they were embedded that related specifically to the leadership roles available to executives and the networks they formed.FindingsGenerically applicable links between leadership roles are identified that provides structure to the task accomplishment networks within groups executives form when discharging their leadership responsibilities. Characterising leadership in terms of role, and the task networks that executives form, is found to facilitate improvement in the speed with which groups gain productive contributions from their members.Research limitations/implicationsA case study of three demographically similar multinational engineering companies engaged in the design, development and manufacture of rotating turbo‐machinery provides the platform for the research. The concepts advanced will require validating in other organisations of different demographic profiles.Practical implicationsThe concepts advanced, and implications discussed, provide an insight into the distributed and networked form of leadership. The practical steps individual executives can take to contribute to the speed with which groups gain productive contributions from their members are highlighted.Originality/valueThis article attempts to assist executives within a senior management team to better adapt and coordinate their behaviour with other executives. In so doing, it is suggested that executives contribute more positively to the development of groups and the speed with which the groups of which they are a part gain productive contributions from their members.
An interview with Sir John Parker, Chairman, National Grid
Authors: Kakabadse Andrew 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThis article aims to capture latest thinking from an internationally renowned practitioner on the themes of Chairmanship, purpose of the board and governance.Design/methodology/approachThe author used two methods to complete the article – semi‐structured interview and qualitative methodologyFindingsCritical is the role of Chairman and leading the board. Beyond governance is establishing high quality, resilient and open relationships amongst board members, so that strategic risk and vulnerability issues can be effetively addressed.Research limitations/implicationsThe focus was based on one interview only, generalisation is limited.Practical implicationsProvides an insightful view on how a world class Chairman structures and actions his role.Originality/valueThis is a critical original interview emphasising best practice Chairmanship.
Improving the search process through ontology‐based adaptive semantic search
Authors: Yang Chyan , Yang Keng‐Chieh , Yuan Hsu‐Chieh 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to describe an efficient search methodology to help improve the search results in the top portion of a lengthy search list. When facing a lengthy search list, people often limit themselves to the top ten items on the list, even though there may be more useful information after the top ten items.Design/methodology/approachThis study proposes an ontology‐based adaptive semantic search to significantly improve the search experience. To capture the semantic difference of search terms, naïve ontology is used to store the relationship among terms. Before a search term is processed by the search engine Lucene, the related words of the search term are selected from ontology structures to form new query phrases in the process of query expansion. The weighting of the expanded query phrases is dynamically learned by observing the users' clicking behaviors.FindingsResearch results show that with the aid of ontology the average precision rate of all cases is dramatically higher than the precision rate for the default search result. Even in the worst cases, in some situations, this ontology is still close to the precision rate for the default search result.Originality/valueThis paper shows how it is possible to improve the precision rate of items retrieved after a search and thus avoid information overload.