bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NF-κB-mediated repression of growth arrest- and DNA-damage-inducible proteins 45α and γ is essential for cancer cell survival
Authors: Zerbini Luiz F. , Wang Yihong , Czibere Akos , Correa Ricardo G. , Cho Je-Yoel , Ijiri Kosei , Wei Wanjang , Joseph Marie , Gu Xuesong , Grall Franck , Goldring Mary B. , Zhou Jin-Rhong , Libermann Towia A.
Published: September 2004

The NF-κB/IκB signaling pathway is a critical regulator of cell survival in cancer. Here, we report that combined down-regulation of growth arrest- and DNA-damage-inducible proteins (GADD)45α and γ expression by NF-κB is an essential step for various cancer types to escape programmed cell death. We demonstrate that inhibition of NF-κB in cancer cells results in GADD45α- and γ-dependent induction of apoptosis and inhibition of tumor growth. Inhibition of GADD45α and γ in cancer cells by small interfering RNA abrogates apoptosis induction by the inhibitor of NF-κB and blocks c-Jun N-terminal kinase activation, whereas overexpression of GADD45α and γ activates c-Jun N-terminal kinase and induces apoptosis. These results establish an unambiguous role for the GADD45 family as an essential mediator of cell survival in cancer cells with implications for cancer chemotherapy and novel drug discovery.
Potential for neural regeneration after neurotoxic injury in the adult mammalian retina
Authors: Ooto Sotaro , Akagi Tadamichi , Kageyama Ryoichiro , Akita Joe , Mandai Michiko , Honda Yoshihito , Takahashi Masayo
Published: September 2004

It has long been believed that the retina of mature mammals is incapable of regeneration. In this study, using the
N
-methyl-
d
-aspartate neurotoxicity model of adult rat retina, we observed that some Müller glial cells were stimulated to proliferate in response to a toxic injury and produce bipolar cells and rod photoreceptors. Although these newly produced neurons were limited in number, retinoic acid treatment promoted the number of regenerated bipolar cells. Moreover, misexpression of basic helix–loop–helix and homeobox genes promoted the induction of amacrine, horizontal, and rod photoreceptor specific phenotypes. These findings demonstrated that retinal neurons regenerated even in adult mammalian retina after toxic injury. Furthermore, we could partially control the fate of the regenerated neurons with extrinsic factors or intrinsic genes. The Müller glial cells constitute a potential source for the regeneration of adult mammalian retina and can be a target for drug delivery and gene therapy in retinal degenerative diseases.
Different functional roles of T1R subunits in the heteromeric taste receptors
Authors: Xu Hong , Staszewski Lena , Tang Huixian , Adler Elliot , Zoller Mark , Li Xiaodong
Published: September 2004

The T1R receptors, a family of taste-specific class C G proteincoupled receptors, mediate mammalian sweet and umami tastes. The structure–function relationships of T1R receptors remain largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrate the different functional roles of T1R extracellular and transmembrane domains in ligand recognition and G protein coupling. Similar to other family C G protein-coupled receptors, the N-terminal Venus flytrap domain of T1R2 is required for recognizing sweeteners, such as aspartame and neotame. The G protein coupling requires the transmembrane domain of T1R2. Surprisingly, the C-terminal transmembrane domain of T1R3 is required for recognizing sweetener cyclamate and sweet taste inhibitor lactisole. Because T1R3 is the common subunit in the sweet taste receptor and the umami taste receptor, we tested the interaction of lactisole and cyclamate with the umami taste receptor. Lactisole inhibits the activity of the human T1R1/T1R3 receptor, and, as predicted, blocked the umami taste of
l
-glutamate in human taste tests. Cyclamate does not activate the T1R1/T1R3 receptor by itself, but potentiates the receptor's response to
l
-glutamate. Taken together, these findings demonstrate the different functional roles of T1R3 and T1R2 and the presence of multiple ligand binding sites on the sweet taste receptor.
CD26 up-regulates expression of CD86 on antigen-presenting cells by means of caveolin-1
Authors: Ohnuma Kei , Yamochi Tadanori , Uchiyama Masahiko , Nishibashi Kunika , Yoshikawa Noritada , Shimizu Noriaki , Iwata Satoshi , Tanaka Hirotoshi , Dang Nam H. , Morimoto Chikao
Published: September 2004

CD26 is a T cell costimulatory molecule with dipeptidyl peptidase IV activity in its extracellular region. We previously reported that recombinant soluble CD26 enhanced T cell proliferation induced by the recall antigen tetanus toxoid (TT). However, the mechanism involved in this enhancement is not yet elucidated. We now demonstrate that CD26 binds Caveolin-1 on antigen-presenting cells, and that residues 201–211 of CD26 along with the serine catalytic site at residue 630 contribute to binding to caveolin-1 scaffolding domain. In addition, after CD26–caveolin-1 interaction on TT-loaded monocytes, caveolin-1 is phosphorylated, which links to activate NF-κB, followed by up-regulation of CD86. Finally, reduced caveolin-1 expression on monocytes inhibits CD26-mediated CD86 up-regulation and abrogates CD26 effect on TT-induced T cell proliferation. Taken together, these results strongly suggest that CD26–caveolin-1 interaction plays a role in the up-regulation of CD86 on TT-loaded monocytes and subsequent engagement with CD28 on T cells, leading to antigen-specific T cell activation.
Molecular basis for catecholaminergic neuron diversity
Authors: Grimm Jan , Mueller Anne , Hefti Franz , Rosenthal Arnon
Published: September 2004

Catecholaminergic neurons control diverse cognitive, motor, and endocrine functions and are associated with multiple psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. We present global gene-expression profiles that define the four major classes of dopaminergic (DA) and noradrenergic neurons in the brain. Hypothalamic DA neurons and noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus display distinct group-specific signatures of transporters, channels, transcription, plasticity, axon-guidance, and survival factors. In contrast, the transcriptomes of midbrain DA neurons of the substantia nigra and the ventral tegmental area are closely related with <1% of differentially expressed genes. Transcripts implicated in neural plasticity and survival are enriched in ventral tegmental area neurons, consistent with their role in schizophrenia and addiction and their decreased vulnerability in Parkinson's disease. The molecular profiles presented provide a basis for understanding the common and population-specific properties of catecholaminergic neurons and will facilitate the development of selective drugs.
Sfp1 is a stress- and nutrient-sensitive regulator of ribosomal protein gene expression
Authors: Marion Rosa M. , Regev Aviv , Segal Eran , Barash Yoseph , Koller Daphne , Friedman Nir , O'Shea Erin K.
Published: September 2004

Yeast cells modulate their protein synthesis capacity in response to physiological needs through the transcriptional control of ribosomal protein (RP) genes. Here we demonstrate that the transcription factor Sfp1, previously shown to play a role in the control of cell size, regulates RP gene expression in response to nutrients and stress. Under optimal growth conditions, Sfp1 is localized to the nucleus, bound to the promoters of RP genes, and helps promote RP gene expression. In response to inhibition of target of rapamycin (TOR) signaling, stress, or changes in nutrient availability, Sfp1 is released from RP gene promoters and leaves the nucleus, and RP gene transcription is down-regulated. Additionally, cells lacking Sfp1 fail to appropriately modulate RP gene expression in response to environmental cues. We conclude that Sfp1 integrates information from nutrient- and stress-responsive signaling pathways to help control RP gene expression.
Hematopoietic contribution to skeletal muscle regeneration by myelomonocytic precursors
Authors: Doyonnas Regis , LaBarge Mark A. , Sacco Alessandra , Charlton Carol , Blau Helen M.
Published: September 2004

Adult bone marrow-derived cells can participate in muscle regeneration after bone marrow transplantation. In recent studies a single hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) was shown to give rise to cells that not only reconstituted all of the lineages of the blood, but also contributed to mature muscle fibers. However, the relevant HSC derivative with this potential has not yet been definitively identified. Here we use fluorescence-activated cell sorter-based protocols to test distinct hematopoietic fractions and show that only fractions containing c-kit+immature myelomonocytic precursors are capable of contributing to muscle fibers after i.m. injection. Although these cells belong to the myeloid lineage, they do not include mature CD11b+myelomonocytic cells, such as macrophages. Of the four sources of mature macrophages tested that were derived either from monocytic culture, bone marrow, peripheral blood after granulocyte colony-stimulating factor mobilization, or injured muscle, none contributed to muscle. In addition, after transplantation of bone marrow isolated from CD11b-Cre-transgenic mice into the Cre-reporter strain (Z/EG), no GFP myofibers were detected, demonstrating that macrophages expressing CD11b do not fuse with myofibers. Irrespective of the underlying mechanisms, these data suggest that the HSC derivatives that integrate into regenerating muscle fibers exist in the pool of hematopoietic cells known as myelomonocytic progenitors.
Ultrafast hydration dynamics in protein unfolding: Human serum albumin
Authors: Kamal J. K. Amisha , Zhao Liang , Zewail Ahmed H.
Published: September 2004

We report studies of unfolding and ultrafast hydration dynamics of the protein human serum albumin. Unique in this study is our ability to examine different domains of the same protein and the intermediate on the way to the unfolded state. With femtosecond resolution and site-selective labeling, we isolate the dynamics of domains I and II of the native protein, domain I of the intermediate at 2 M guanidine hydrochloride, and the unfolded state at 6 M of the denaturant. For studies of unfolding, we used the fluorophores, acrylodan (covalently bound to Cys-34 in domain I) and the intrinsic tryptophan (domain II), whereas for hydration dynamics, we probed acrylodan and prodan; the latter is bound to domain II. From the time-dependent spectra and the correlation functions, we obtained the time scale of dynamically ordered water: 57 ps for the more stable domain I and 32 ps for the less stable domain II, in contrast to ≈0.8 ps for labile, bulk-type water. This trend suggests an increased hydrophilic residues–water interaction of domain I, contrary to some packing models. In the intermediate state, which is characterized by essentially intact domain I and unfolded domain II, the dynamics of ordered water around domain I is nearly the same (61 ps) as that of native state (57 ps), whereas that in the unfolded protein is much shorter (13 ps). We discuss the role of this fluidity in the correlation between stability and function of the protein.
The crystal structure of ribosomal chaperone trigger factor from
Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Ludlam Anthony V. , Moore Brian A. , Xu Zhaohui
Published: September 2004

Trigger factor is a molecular chaperone that is present in all species of eubacteria. It binds to the ribosomal 50S subunit near the translation exit tunnel and is thought to be the first protein to interact with nascent polypeptides emerging from the ribosome. The chaperone has a peptidyl-prolyl
cis-trans
isomerase (PPIase) activity that catalyzes the rate-limiting proline isomerization in the protein-folding process. We have determined the crystal structure of nearly full-length trigger factor from
Vibrio cholerae
by x-ray crystallography at 2.5-Å resolution. The structure is composed of two trigger-factor molecules related by a noncrystallographic two-fold symmetry axis. The monomer has an elongated shape and is folded into three domains: an N-terminal domain I that binds to the ribosome, a central domain II that contains PPIase activity, and a C-terminal domain III. The active site of the PPIase domain is occupied by a loop from domain III, suggesting that the PPIase activity of the protein could be regulated. The dimer interface is formed between domains I and III and contains residues of mixed properties. Further implications about dimerization, ribosome binding, and other functions of trigger factor are discussed.
Phenotypic conversion of human mammary carcinoma cells by autocrine human growth hormone
Authors: Mukhina Svetlana , Mertani Hichem C. , Guo Ke , Lee Kok-Onn , Gluckman Peter D. , Lobie Peter E.
Published: September 2004

We report here that autocrine production of human growth hormone (hGH) results in a phenotypic conversion of mammary carcinoma cells such that they exhibit the morphological and molecular characteristics of a mesenchymal cell, including expression of fibronectin and vimentin. Autocrine production of hGH resulted in reduced plakoglobin expression and relocalization of E-cadherin to the cytoplasm, leading to dissolution of cell-cell contacts and decreased cell height. These phenotypic changes were accompanied by an increase in cell motility, elevated activity of specific matrix metalloproteinases, and an acquired ability to invade a reconstituted basement membrane. Forced expression of plakoglobin significantly decreased mammary carcinoma cell migration and invasion stimulated by autocrine hGH.
In vivo
, autocrine hGH stimulated local invasion of mammary carcinoma cells concomitant with a prominent stromal reaction in comparison with well delineated and capsulated growth of mammary carcinoma cells lacking autocrine production of hGH. Thus, autocrine production of hGH by mammary carcinoma cells is sufficient for generation of an invasive phenotype. Therapeutic targeting of autocrine hGH may provide a mechanistic approach to prevent metastatic extension of human mammary carcinoma.
A novel checkpoint in the Bcl-2–regulated apoptotic pathway revealed by murine cytomegalovirus infection of dendritic cells
Authors: Andoniou Christopher E. , Andrews Daniel M. , Manzur Mitali , Ricciardi-Castagnoli Paola , Degli-Esposti Mariapia A.
Published: September 2004

Infection with murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) has contributed to understanding many aspects of human infection and, additionally, has provided important insight to understanding complex cellular responses. Dendritic cells (DCs) are a major target for MCMV infection. Here, we analyze the effects of MCMV infection on DC viability, and show that infected DCs become resistant to apoptosis induced by growth factor deprivation. The precise contribution of changes in the expression of Bcl-2 family proteins has been assessed and a new checkpoint in the apoptotic pathway identified. Despite their resistance to apoptosis, MCMV-infected DCs showed Bax to be tightly associated with mitochondria and, together with Bak, forming high molecular weight oligomers, changes normally associated with apoptotic cell death. Exposure of a constitutively occluded Bax NH2-terminal epitope was blocked after infection. These results suggest that MCMV has evolved a novel strategy for inhibiting apoptosis and provide evidence that apoptosis can be regulated after translocation, integration, and oligomerization of Bax at the mitochondrial membrane.
p107 regulates neural precursor cells in the mammalian brain
Authors: Vanderluit Jacqueline L. , Ferguson Kerry L. , Nikoletopoulou Vassiliki , Parker Maura , Ruzhynsky Vladimir , Alexson Tania , McNamara Stephen M. , Park David S. , Rudnicki Michael , Slack Ruth S.
Published: September 2004

Here we show a novel function for Retinoblastoma family member, p107 in controlling stem cell expansion in the mammalian brain. Adult p107-null mice had elevated numbers of proliferating progenitor cells in their lateral ventricles. In vitro neurosphere assays revealed striking increases in the number of neurosphere forming cells from p107−/− brains that exhibited enhanced capacity for self-renewal. An expanded stem cell population in p107-deficient mice was shown in vivo by (a) increased numbers of slowly cycling cells in the lateral ventricles; and (b) accelerated rates of neural precursor repopulation after progenitor ablation. Notch1 was up-regulated in p107−/− neurospheres in vitro and brains in vivo. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and p107 overexpression suggest that p107 may modulate the Notch1 pathway. These results demonstrate a novel function for p107 that is distinct from Rb, which is to negatively regulate the number of neural stem cells in the developing and adult brain.
Phosphorylation of actopaxin regulates cell spreading and migration
Authors: Clarke Dominic M. , Brown Michael C. , LaLonde David P. , Turner Christopher E.
Published: September 2004

Actopaxin is an actin and paxillin binding protein that localizes to focal adhesions. It regulates cell spreading and is phosphorylated during mitosis. Herein, we identify a role for actopaxin phosphorylation in cell spreading and migration. Stable clones of U2OS cells expressing actopaxin wild-type (WT), nonphosphorylatable, and phosphomimetic mutants were developed to evaluate actopaxin function. All proteins targeted to focal adhesions, however the nonphosphorylatable mutant inhibited spreading whereas the phosphomimetic mutant cells spread more efficiently than WT cells. Endogenous and WT actopaxin, but not the nonphosphorylatable mutant, were phosphorylated in vivo during cell adhesion/spreading. Expression of the nonphosphorylatable actopaxin mutant significantly reduced cell migration, whereas expression of the phosphomimetic increased cell migration in scrape wound and Boyden chamber migration assays. In vitro kinase assays demonstrate that extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase phosphorylates actopaxin, and treatment of U2OS cells with the MEK1 inhibitor UO126 inhibited adhesion-induced phosphorylation of actopaxin and also inhibited cell migration.
Impacts of a new transcription factor family
Authors: Hashemolhosseini Said , Wegner Michael
Published: September 2004

GCM proteins constitute a small transcription factor family with a DNA-binding domain exhibiting a novel fold composed of two subdomains rigidly held together by coordination of one of two structural zinc cations. In all known cases, GCM proteins exert the role of master regulators: the prototypical family member determines gliogenesis in Drosophila melanogaster, whereas mammalian GCM proteins orchestrate divergent aspects of development and physiology in placenta, kidney, thymus, and parathyroid gland. Recent data point to an involvement of GCM proteins in different pathological contexts, such as preeclampsia, hyper- or hypoparathyroidism, and parathyroid gland tumors.
Constitutive Activation of STAT5A Promotes Human Hematopoietic Stem Cell Self-Renewal and Erythroid Differentiation
Authors: Schuringa Jan Jacob , Chung Ki Young , Morrone Giovanni , Moore Malcolm A.S.
Published: September 2004

Activation of the transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)5 is involved in various aspects of hematopoiesis, affecting cell proliferation, differentiation, and cell survival. Constitutive activation of STAT5 has also been associated with leukemic transformation. We overexpressed the constitutively active mutant STAT5A(1*6) in human cord blood CD34+ cells and evaluated the effects on the hematopoietic potential of stem cells in a variety of in vitro and in vivo systems. The observed phenotypic changes were correlated with differential gene expression patterns induced by STAT5A(1*6). Our data indicate that a persistent activation of STAT5A in human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells results in their enhanced self-renewal and diverts differentiation to the erythroid lineage.
SNAP: workbench management tool for evolutionary population genetic analysis
Authors: Price Eric W. , Carbone Ignazio
Published: September 2004

Summary: The reconstruction of population processes from DNA sequence variation requires the coordinated implementation of several coalescent-based methods, each bound by specific assumptions and limitations. In practice, the application of these coalescent-based methods for parameter estimation is difficult because they make strict assumptions that must be verified a priori and their parameter-rich nature makes the estimation of all model parameters very complex and computationally intensive. A further complication is their distribution as console applications that require the user to navigate through console menus or specify complex command-line arguments. To facilitate the implementation of these coalescent-based tools we developed SNAP Workbench, a Java program that manages and coordinates a series of programs. The workbench enhances population parameter estimation by ensuring that the assumptions and program limitations of each method are met and by providing a step-by-step methodology for examining population processes that integrates both summary-statistic methods and coalescent-based population genetic models.

Availability: SNAP Workbench is freely available at http://snap.cifr.ncsu.edu. The workbench and tools can be downloaded for Mac, Windows and Unix operating systems. Each package includes installation instructions, program documentation and a sample dataset.

Contact:  ignazio_carbone@ncsu.edu

Supplementary information: A description of system requirements and installation instructions can be found at http://snap.cifr.ncsu.edu
Capturing biological information with class–responsibility–collaboration cards
Authors: Shegogue Daniel , Zheng W. Jim
Published: September 2004

Summary: Class–responsibility–collaboration (CRC) cards have been used extensively in the software industry for defining complex object-oriented software requirements. We have adapted this tool to capture information about biological components, collaborators and responsibilities within these collaborations, which is not captured by current annotation tools. CRC cards should provide a common ground that will facilitate communication between biologist and computer scientists.

Availability: A CRC card template, XML representation and XML schema are freely available at http://people.musc.edu/~zhengw/CRCCard/CRC_Card_Index.html

Contact:  zhengw@musc.edu

Supplementary information: Supplemental Figures 1–4.
iPfam: visualization of protein–protein interactions in PDB at domain and amino acid resolutions
Authors: Finn Robert D. , Marshall Mhairi , Bateman Alex
Published: September 2004

Summary: There are many resources that contain information about binary interactions between proteins. However, protein interactions are defined by only a subset of residues in any protein. We have implemented a web resource that allows the investigation of protein interactions in the Protein Data Bank structures at the level of Pfam domains and amino acid residues. This detailed knowledge relies on the fact that there are a large number of multidomain proteins and protein complexes being deposited in the structure databases. The resource called iPfam is hosted within the Pfam UK website. Most resources focus on the interactions between proteins; iPfam includes these as well as interactions between domains in a single protein.

Availability:  iPfam is available on the Web for browsing at http://www.sanger.ac.uk/Software/Pfam/iPfam/; the source-data for iPfam is freely available in relational tables via the ftp site ftp://ftp.sanger.ac.uk/pub/databases/Pfam/database_files/

Contact:  rdf@sanger.ac.uk
WHAT INTERNATIONAL SKILLS ARE NEEDED BY MANAGERS OF TODAY
AND TOMORROW?
Authors: Oliver Nordstrom John , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: September 2004

Some light is shed on the skills and knowledge needed by
international managers. The managers must understand the people and
their customs as well as the legislative and legal implications involved
in doing business in foreign countries. Also some examples and ideas are
presented as to how to avoid or how to approach these markets. These
skills if used properly will provide enduring and successful business
relationships for the future.
BUILDING LEARNING CLIMATES IN TRAINER DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Sims Ronald R.
Published: September 2004

Several activities successfully used in trainer development
programmes, designed to develop, set up, and use different excercises to
enhance the “start‐up” phase of a training programme, are
described. A key aspect of the activities discussed involves learning
how to utilise one′s experiences and those of others effectively to
build learning climates in training programmes.
THE EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF TRAINING
Authors: Fill Chris , Mullins Laurie
Published: September 2004

The success of any organisation inevitably depends very largely on
the staff it employs. The article sets out requirements for effective
training – as assessment of needs, clear training policy, support
of the management, co‐operation of the managers and adequate finance and
resources. The results of a study of \ill\ organisations are reported,
from which four levels of training were identified ‐output, task,
performance and strategic. For most organisations, training was a low
\ill\ low status activity, not an integral part of the business plan.
SIMULATED ENTERPRISE OFFICES (LERNBUROS) IN TRAINING
Authors: Axmann Michael , Tadesse Nunu , Wallace John
Published: September 2004

The creation of a simulated office environment in West German
commercial colleges is described. Its methods of operation, reasons for
its introduction and why it has survived where other, similar
innovations failed to catch on, are examined. Graduates of the process
seem to find jobs sooner and get promoted faster than those emerging
from traditional classroom techniques and apprenticeships.
LEARNING STYLES AND DISTANCE EDUCATORS
Authors: Wicks Anne
Published: September 2004

The Tutor Education Centre in New Zealand provides education for
educators of adults. After restructuring of the New Zealand Open
Polytechnic which resulted in a flatter management structure the centre
was asked to provide management training for tutors. The learning styles
questionnaire was used as a basis and shared a high incidence of the
reflector and theorist categories. The exercise increased participants′
self‐awareness and highlighted the need for change so as to make a
success of their new management roles.
DEVELOPMENT CENTRES PART 1: ENSURING FITNESS FOR PURPOSE IN
YOUR ORGANISATION
Authors: Kerr Scott
Published: September 2004

Development Centres (DCs) are an increasingly popular method of
assessing key personnel to determine their development needs. They are
also a highly visible and powerful organisational intervention which
reveals an organisation′s core values and culture. This two‐part article
focuses on DCs from two perspectives: first as a HR tool; and second as
an organisation development intervention. Part 1 (here) examines what
DCs are, what they comprise, the benefits, and key steps in establishing
a centre. Part 2 (in the next issue) examines the linkages between three
alternative DC models and both organisation culture and the business
development cycle.
TEAM DEVELOPMENT FOR REAL
Authors: Kirkpatrick Tom , Smith Bryan
Published: September 2004

The experience of a top team‐building strategy spanning two years
is described from two viewpoints: the company′s, Bendix Safety
Restraints, and the providers, Sundridge Park Management Centre′s Team
Building Services Unit. The development of a client‐consultant
collaborative relationship is traced, which has enabled the achievement
of significant strategic change goals and helped to enhance the human
resource development function. Team‐building workshops are described,
including two for the top director team and two integrated workshops of
directors with senior managers. A tracking of learning and “bottom
line” benefits is described together with an outline of planned
initiatives for the future.
BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS‐PART II: INTER‐DEPARTMENTAL TEAM
BUILDING
Authors: Berger Mel
Published: September 2004

This article is the second part of a two part series. The first
half of the article described a case study which illustrates the use of
several techniques for developing inter‐departmental and inter‐level
collaboration. The company manufactures consumer products and was
modernising its production, inventory control, and purchasing processes.
To complement these technical improvements, training was carried out for
30 section leaders, 20 supervisors and 9 managers. The result of this
training was more cohesive departmental teams and greater co‐operation
between departments. The second half of the article presents guidelines
for using these team building techniques. For example, emphasis is given
to gradually and systematically developing departmental identity and
trust at each status level, and then to bringing together people from
different levels and departments to construct specific change plans.
PREPARING FOR CHANGE
Authors: Hughes Alec
Published: September 2004

The history of audio‐visual training packages over the last 21
years is examined. Little has changed with respect to subject matter or
interactivity but there is now less government sponsorship and less
industrial production of specialist educational films. Today′s scene is
overwhelmingly commercial and there is much competition to exploit the
growing training market.
FROM STEW TO SALAD: MEN AND WOMEN MANAGERS AS CONTRIBUTORS
TO ORGANIZATIONAL DIVERSITY
Authors: Pemberton Carole
Published: September 2004

After two decades of women′s increasing presence in management,
raises the question of what impact this has had on perceptions of
management. Discussion of the impact of work by Virginia Schein on
supporting “women only” training, based on reducing female
“deficiencies”, and by Sandra Bem in developing the idea of
the androgynous manager leads to consideration of valuing diversity as
an important theme for management development in the 1990s. Sets the
argument for recognizing diversity against evidence from a small‐scale
study which showed that both male and female managers saw increasing
masculinity as crucial to being effective and successful. Raises the
implications for trainers, and argues the need for management
development programmes to include consideration of diversity from a
contributory perspective.
MALE/FEMALE BEHAVIOURAL DIFFERENCES IN AN ADVERTISING SALES
ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Green Alison
Published: September 2004

In contrast with the accounts of those without line management
responsibilities, gives a perspective of how men and women work together
in the world of advertising sales. Highlights the fact that, in a highly
competitive environment, putting together the best team possible to win
the business makes sense only if it ignores gender and focuses on skill
requirements. Looks to recognize differences and, while some readers may
challenge the delineation of skills as primarily being the preserve of
one or the other of the sexes, is concerned to use those differences
creatively in meeting the demands of the job, and the style of the
client. Also argues that a numerical balance of men and women is seen by
the workforce itself as healthier. Gives ample evidence of the
industry′s concern to discriminate on ability not sex, but also concedes
that the glass ceiling is cracked rather than shattered.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ON LEARNING STYLES QUESTIONNAIRE
Authors: Mumford Alan , Honey Peter
Published: September 2004

Looks briefly at the origins of the authors′ Learning Styles
Questionnaire and the differences between it and Kolb′s Learning Styles
Inventory. Gives answers to the most frequently asked questions and
includes the acuracy of self‐perception, what to do if the results are
not believed, explanations for changes in scores and the Questionnaire′s
structure.
GOOD MANAGER: GOOD COACH? WHAT IS NEEDED FOR EFFECTIVE
COACHING?
Authors: Marsh Linda
Published: September 2004

Reports research into whether the commonly agreed dimensions of
effective coaching actually relate to success and performance
improvement. The research was carried out by Helen Ballard for Huthwaite
Research Group during an on‐the‐job SPIN coaching programme Huthwaite
ran for a large computer company in 1991. The programme was concerned
with improving sales skills. Reports evidence showing that these
dimensions do relate to effective coaching and performance improvement.
Measures used were questionnaires and interviews with the managers and
sellers, group discussions and some live observations with managers.
Explores management competence, working relationships, leadership style,
coaching style and learning style. Discusses why coaching does not
happen, even when managers and the company culture appear to favour it.
Highlights six key factors which organizations must consider if coaching
initiatives are to produce the benefits frequently expected.
TRAINING AND ENTERPRISE COUNCILS: THE STORY SO FAR: A
SPECIAL REVIEW OF POLICY STUDIES 13:1
Authors: Robinson Graham
Published: September 2004

A review in depth of Policy Studies Issue 13:1 considering
the progress made to date by the Training and Enterprise Councils in the
UK. It provides an informed and valuable backdrop to the varied and
interesting papers which go to make up this special issue. The papers
consider the TECs from a variety of perspectives and are themselves
considered from the standpoint of an adviser to their Boards and senior
management teams. Argues that this critical stage of the TECs is one
which is given scant consideration in the publication and that TEC
managers are frequently overstretched and under resourced. While this is
a common characteristic of work in the 1990s, the committed and hard
working managers and staff of TECs should not become political
footballs, becoming overburdened by initiative overload but should be
permitted to get on with their very important task within a realistic
strategic framework.
DEBRIEFING IN BRIEF
Authors: MacLachlan Malcolm
Published: September 2004

Contends that the quality of debriefing at the conclusion of a
training exercise will determine whether participants are left feeling
at a loose end, seeing the exercise as having little relevance to their
jobs or thinking that they have been fortunate to have experienced an
amount of “accelerated learning”, telescoped into a short
time period, equivalent to what might have taken years of on‐the‐job
experience to realize. Presents a five‐stage model for the use of
exercises during training sessions, developed around the core activity
of debriefing.
DEALING WITH DIFFICULTIES AND DIFFERENCE
Authors: Nixon Bruce
Published: September 2004

Finds that, in work with managers and facilitators, problems with
colleagues, bosses and subordinates are among the most frequently
mentioned sources of difficulty. Apart from the anguish which is often
involved, failure to work well with conflict and to welcome and harness
diversity can sap energy and goodwill, create an unhappy climate for
people in which to work and lead to poor decisions, whether strategic or
day‐to‐day. Questions why good people with the best intentions often get
themselves into such a tangle, why many people do not feel fully
respected or valued and are not sufficiently involved. Attempts to find
some explanations; demonstrates various ways in which our difficulties
manifest themselves and offers some constructive and healthier
approaches which can help.
TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT (TQM): PAVING THE WAY FOR FUTURE
TRAINING?
Authors: Patel Anoop
Published: September 2004

Britain must develop its human resources: that is the clear lesson
from our overseas competitors who regard the development of their
workforces as an investment rather than an overhead. Many organizations′
competitiveness is seriously damaged by the lack of training, even
though many experts advocate comprehensive training to be the foundation
on which essential improvement programmes should be built. Reports on a
survey of small and medium‐sized manufacturing firms in the north of
England which shows that the attitude to training has been short‐sighted
and only a minority of firms have adopted a total quality management
(TQM) strategy within their organizations. Defines and identifies the
relationship to training. Fully explores the survey′s questions ranging
from perceived need of TQM, commitment to training, benefits of and
obstacles to TQM.
MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT: INTEGRATING INDIVIDUAL AND
ORGANIZATIONAL NEEDS
Authors: Anderson Gordon C.
Published: September 2004

Examines the contribution, to both individuals and organizations,
of the less formal processes of management development. Discusses such
concepts as coaching, counselling, mentoring and action learning,
considering them to be important approaches to management development in
their own right, and in helping individuals in organizations to
assimilate and apply learning derived from more formal management
development methods, including management training.
WHY DO WE NEED TO CHANGE THE WAY IN WHICH WE MANAGE PEOPLE?
PART II
Authors: Whitaker Vivien
Published: September 2004

Presents new models for managing people. Part one explored
underlying assumptions which can transform the way in which we approach
the management of people. Part two introduces a customer‐oriented
framework for managing others. A wide range of organizations have
successfully adopted this radically different way of managing people.
INTRODUCING END‐USER COMPUTING: THE IMPLICATIONS FOR
TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT – PART 1
Authors: Garavan Thomas N. , McCracken Clare
Published: September 2004

End‐user computing is now a reality in many organizations. The
variety of end users is considerable and it has many implications for
their training and development. Focuses on some of these issues, in
particular the problems of end‐user computing, anxiety problems of
computer users, the importance of learning style and the implications
for the role and delivery of training support. Highlights these issues
through a case study of end‐user computing in the academic environment.
TRAINING OF INTERNAL QUALITY AUDITORS
Authors: Bettes D.C.
Published: September 2004

Describes courses which have been used for training staff from all
disciplines and grades as internal quality auditors, as required by ISO
9000 (BS 5750). Emphasizes the differences between internal and external
quality auditing, and the advantages to be gained from addressing the
purposes of internal audits. Describes a participative approach which
helps to develop an enabling culture, thus supporting TQM initiatives.
One key feature of the courses is the inclusion of a live audit of part
of the participants′ quality management system.
The development and application of synthetic food grade lubricants
Authors: Rajewski T.E. , Fokens J.S. , Watson M.C.
Published: September 2004

The use of lubricants in food production and processing is widely known. Over time, the regulations and requirements for lubricants in food machinery have evolved to include a wide variety of product technology. This technology includes many synthetic based formulated lubricants. This paper will focus on the types of lubricants available for use in the food industry, as well as the benefits and potential drawbacks of each lubricant type. It will also address the changing legislation surrounding the use of lubricants in food manufacturing and processing equipment.
Micropitting resistant industrial gear oils with balanced performance
Authors: Brechot P. , Cardis A.B. , Murphy W.R. , Theissen J.
Published: September 2004

This paper reviews the performance features of a new generation of industrial gear oils, developed for both mineral and synthetic base oils. These new products were designed to provide the highest levels of protection against the relatively new wear mechanism called micropitting. However, great stress was placed on providing these new products with balanced performance capabilities, so that they will perform with high reliability in the wide variety of conditions to which modern industrial gear oils are exposed. Performance areas such as filterability, foam control, corrosion protection, water separation, oxidation control and bearing protection were of particular concern. This paper compares the overall performance of these new technologies with conventional commercial products and it describes the extensive rig and field‐testing used to confirm their performance. It also reviews the phenomenon of gear micropitting and optimum methods for its assessment.
Use of Group II, Group III base stocks in hydraulic and industrial applications
Authors: Ryan Helen T.
Published: September 2004

Use of hydrotreated, hydrocracked and catalytically dewaxed base oils in hydraulic and industrial applications is increasing on a global scale. The hydrogenation and dewaxing processes involved in the manufacture of these products can result in base oils of exceptionally low aromatic content and sulphur level and raised viscosity index (VI). The aromatic content, sulphur level and VI are parameters used by the American Petroleum Institute (API) to categorize the base oils as Group II or Group III. The performance of additives in these Groups II and III base stocks differs from that in Group I base stocks. In addition, different processes used by different manufacturers will not only create different base stock oxidative stability and solvency from that of Group I base stocks, it will also create differences between Group II base stocks and between Groups II and III base stocks. Several different base stocks have been examined using methods including mass spectrometry and aniline point. Variations in properties, such as aromatic content, cycloparaffinic content and aniline point, appear to relate to differences in oxidation stability and solvency. With the improved response of Groups II/III base stocks to antioxidants, a performance level of 10,000 hours or greater in the ASTM D 943 is common. This necessitates addition of specific antioxidants which result in extended oxidation performance but lead in some cases to the formation of insoluble degradation products in Group II/III base stocks, and more so in Group I base stocks. Phenolic‐ containing and phenolic‐free antioxidant systems have been identified that allow for extended oxidation stability in a wide range of Group II base stocks without sludge formation in either Group I, II or III base stocks.
Labour Absenteeism: The Impact of Profit Sharing, Voice and Participation
Authors: Peel Michael J. , Wilson Nick
Published: September 2004

Using a random sample of 49 UK engineering
companies, the influence of profit sharing, share‐option
schemes and the perceived degree of
employee participation in decision making on inter‐firm
labour absenteeism rates are investigated.
After controlling for a number of firm‐specific
factors, suggested as theoretically appropriate in
the extant literature, the key empirical results
indicated that firms which had adopted sharing
schemes appeared to experience significantly
lower absenteeism rates than their non‐sharing
counterparts.
Preference between Salary or Job Security Increase
Authors: Kathawala Yunus , Moore Kevin J. , Elmuti Dean
Published: September 2004

A survey was conducted to test the preference
of salaried employees when given the option of
increased pay versus increased job security. The
study also looked at various job characteristics and
compared how employees ranked them as
motivators and satisfiers. Subjects were 41
automobile industry salaried employees who
responded to written questionnaires. The results
showed a preference for increased salary over
increase in job security. Respondents who
preferred a salary increase demonstrated a less
satisfied attitude with current salary and overall
satisfaction with the job. Those preferring
increased security ranked security higher than
salary as a satisfier, but not as a motivator. Those
preferring a salary increase ranked compensation
higher than job security as a motivator and a
satisfier. One group, male middle managers,
showed a higher preference for salary increase
versus increased security. Overall average
response ranking of job elements resulted in
compensation being ranked as the number one
element in importance towards job satisfation
while increase in salary for performance ranked
as the number one element in importance in
motivating employees. Job security ranked fifth
as a satisfier and seventh as a motivator overall.
Bargaining into the 1990s: Where Now?
Authors: Blanchflower David
Published: September 2004

Changes in British industrial relations over the last
decade are surveyed and their impact on economic
performance is analysed. The evidence on the
economic effects of unions – on wages,
employment, working conditions, negotiations and
profits – is reviewed. Finally, comments are
offered on likely future trends.
Unemployment and the Intensity and Method of Job Search
Authors: Bosworth Derek L.
Published: September 2004

The Labour Force Survey is a rich data source
for investigation of the factors influencing
unemployment. The initial results are based on
a linear probability model. They highlight some
of the influences on job search, the choice of
methods, the intensity and the duration of search.
The probability of search is positively related to
claimancy status and is higher for males and for
those in younger‐age and shorter‐duration
unemployment categories. Family responsibilities
had quite different effects on male and female job
search probabilities, except in the case of single
parents. The intensity of search was noticeably
higher in males, for claimants, for younger‐age
groups and shorter‐duration categories. Reliance
on job centres fell significantly with age, tended
to be higher amongst the less well qualified and
lower social classes. With the exception of
Northern Ireland, individuals in higher unemployment
areas made greater use of job centres. All
of the results were duration‐related: the
probability and intensity of job search fell with the
duration of unemployment; the reliance on job
centres increased with duration.
Skill Shortages in the Construction Sector
Authors: Briscoe Geoffrey
Published: September 2004

This article examines the nature of skill shortages
in the UK construction sector in 1988. It sets out
the current survey evidence on the extent of skill
shortage, with details on selected individual crafts
and a breakdown by main geographic region. The
most significant shortages are identified for the
South‐Eastern region. The article analyses the
current patterns of demand for construction skills
and assesses how these have been changing over
recent years. Attention is paid to both the regional
demand for output and to the mix of construction
products and services. Some implications are
drawn for the demand for particular skills. The
supply of skills as represented by the number of
trainees entering the industry is also examined
and observations are made on the quality of
training received. Finally, a brief assessment is
made of the future prospects for solving the skill
shortage problem in construction over the longer
term.
Employment and Unemployment in Turkey
Authors: Koray Meryem
Published: September 2004

In Turkey, there has been a large increase in the
active working population, but a very modest rise
in the demand for labour. As a result, labourforce
participation rates have constantly decreased during
the last decades and work in the informal sector
has grown. Problems such as underemployment,
an unqualified young population and the growth of
the informal sector certainly exist, but their
solution seems a long way off due to internal and
external economic conditions. Even though more
active employment policies are urgently needed in
the country, they are left off the agenda. However,
realistic solutions can only be achieved in Turkey,
and indeed worldwide, by radical changes in
economic and social understanding which may bring
about global rationalisation.