bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing international dimensions in apparel and merchandising curricula in the USA
Authors: Yu Hong , Jin Byoungho
Published: June 2005

Purpose

For many years, the textile and apparel industry has been on the forefront of globalization. To prepare students in the global business environment, this study seeks input from the US business communities and provides suggestions for enhancing the international dimensions of the apparel and merchandising curriculum in the USA.

Design/methodology/approach

Two sets of data were collected and compared: the general data were collected from various business sectors via telephone interviews, and the product‐specific data were gathered from US apparel manufacturers using a modified Dillman's mail survey method.

Findings

Results indicated that the most important benefit of doing business internationally was expanded market, while the obstacle identified most often was cultural differences. The study also found that understanding (i.e. cultural/business practice differences, etc.) is more critical than application or competency (i.e. specific skills) for college international education and that taking general and product‐specific approaches is most efficient to enhance international dimensions in textile and apparel curricula.

Practical implications

Practical implications discussed were: first, international education in the textile and clothing field should be developed with a strong focus on small businesses; second, the international dimensions of apparel design, production, and merchandising curricula should be developed using a region‐specific, rather than a “one‐fits‐all” approach; third, students in the textile and clothing field should be fully prepared in “understanding”, rather than in “application” or “competency”; and fourth, educational modules that help the students better understand international markets should be incorporated into curricula.

Originality/value

We hope this report raises attention with regard to why and how international dimensions can be incorporated into instruction. Based on this report, we expect more practical and innovative international education dialogues to begin.
Three‐dozen knowledge‐sharing barriers managers must consider
Authors: Riege Andreas
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Knowledge sharing is the corner‐stone of many organisations’ knowledge‐management (KM) strategy. Despite the growing significance of knowledge sharing's practices for organisations’ competitiveness and market performance, several barriers make it difficult for KM to achieve the goals and deliver a positive return on investment. This paper provides a detailed review of current KM and related literatures on a large number of possible knowledge‐sharing barriers with the purpose of offering a more comprehensive and structured starting‐point for senior managers when auditing their organisation's current knowledge base and knowledge‐sharing requirements.

Design/methodology/approach

This article reviews and discusses over three dozen potential knowledge‐sharing barriers, categorising them into three main domains of recently published works: individual/personal, organisational, and technological barriers.

Findings

The extensive list of knowledge sharing barriers provides a helpful starting point and guideline for senior managers auditing their existing practices with a view to identifying any bottle‐necks and improving on the overall effectiveness of knowledge‐sharing activities.

Practical implications

Managers need to realise, however, that a particular knowledge sharing strategy or specific managerial actions will not suit all companies and that there are differences to be expected between MNCs and SMEs, private, public sector, and not‐for‐profit organisations. As such, the implementation of knowledge‐sharing goals and strategies into an organisation's strategic planning and thinking will vary greatly.

Originality/value

The main discussion of this paper brings together a large range of knowledge‐ sharing barriers in an attempt to indicate the complexity of knowledge sharing as a value‐creating organisational activity.
Managing knowledge sharing in China: the case of Siemens ShareNet
Authors: Voelpel Sven C. , Han Zheng
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Since previous research has mainly focused on “how multinational companies generally practise knowledge management”, this paper seeks to suggest that very little is known of the particularities of knowledge‐sharing and knowledge management practice in the context of a specific country and culture.

Design/methodology/approach

It uses an in‐depth case‐research approach focusing specifically on Siemens ShareNet in China. A total of 35 interviews have been conducted with executives, general managers, and line managers within different units at the headquarters as well as in China.

Findings

Knowledge management needs to take the cultural dimension into consideration, as culture decisively influences knowledge‐sharing behavior. Potential for knowledge sharing in the emerging market of China is higher than one may expect, if the necessary adjustment to the cultural context can be made.

Research limitations/implications

This research paper investigates a single case focusing on Siemens ShareNet in China. Thus, the findings may have limitations in their generalizability. Any future research needs to pay more attention to both “non‐monetary incentives” and “cultural impact” of knowledge sharing, as theses two issues are of particular value while so far largely unexplored.

Practical implications

Knowledge management officers are able to deepen their understanding of motivations and barriers of knowledge sharing especially in the Chinese context. The paper also demonstrates potentials for hands‐on improvements.

Originality/value

This study reveals that knowledge management needs to take the cultural dimension into consideration, as culture decisively influences knowledge‐sharing behavior. It also indicates that the potential for knowledge sharing in an emerging market such as China is higher than one may expect.
Social capital, knowledge management, and sustained superior performance
Authors: Hoffman James J. , Hoelscher Mark L. , Sherif Karma
Published: June 2005

Purpose

This article attempts to begin the process of removing the cloak of causal ambiguity by examining the role that knowledge management has in the creation of the wide variety of competitive advantages found in some organizations. Specifically, this article aims to extend understanding in the field of knowledge management by examining how knowledge management can affect organizational performance, and by examining one possible determinant of an organization's capacity to manage knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

Reviews literature on resources‐advantage theory of the firm, social capital and knowledge management to propose ways within the organization to improve their ability to manage knowledge and achieve sustained superior performance. The paper is structured around the following constructs: resource‐advantage theory of the firm, social capital, and knowledge management.

Findings

Describes the relationship between social capital and knowledge management and how both help organizations achieve a sustained superior performance within the market. Suggests that organizations with high levels of social capital have more knowledge‐management capabilities than organizations with low levels of social capital.

Research limitations/implications

This article extends prior research of knowledge management by proposing how social capital can positively impact the ability of organizations to manage knowledge.

Practical implications

Since resources within all businesses are relatively limited, and particularly so when the business is small relative to its competitors, the revelation that social capital can lead to more effective knowledge management makes the decision to support and nurture social‐capital development much more credible.

Originality/value

Because there is no existing literature that has examined the relationship between social capital, knowledge management, and organizational performance, this paper provides a foundation for future studies that examine the relationship between social capital and knowledge management.
Knowledge management, innovation and firm performance
Authors: Darroch Jenny
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To provide important empirical evidence to support the role of knowledge management within firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using a mail survey sent to CEOs representing firms with 50 or more employees from a cross‐section of industries. A total of 1,743 surveys were mailed out and 443 were returned and usable (27.8 percent response rate). The sample was checked for response and non‐response bias. Hypotheses were tested using structural equation modelling.

Findings

This paper presents knowledge management as a coordinating mechanism. Empirical evidence supports the view that a firm with a knowledge management capability will use resources more efficiently and so will be more innovative and perform better.

Research limitations/implications

The sample slightly over‐represented larger firms. Data were also collected in New Zealand. As with most studies, it is important to replicate this study in different contexts.

Practical implications

Knowledge management is embraced in many organizations and requires a business case to justify expenditure on programs to implement knowledge management behaviours and practices or hardware and software solutions. This paper provides support for the importance of knowledge management to enhance innovation and performance.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the first to find empirical support for the role of knowledge management within firms. Further, the positioning of knowledge management as a coordinating mechanism is also an important contribution to our thinking on this topic.
The concept of knowledge work revisited
Authors: Pyöriä Pasi
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To identify and critically assess the most recurrent themes in the ongoing debate on knowledge work.

Design/methodology/approach

A representative selection of studies published since 1962 is reviewed. The review focuses on the theoretical strengths and limitations of the concept of knowledge work.

Findings

The review indicates that definitions of knowledge work abound. Although knowledge work has attracted scholarly minds for several decades and the number of publications in this area has rapidly increased in recent years, it has proved hard to come by a clear and concise definition of this term. However, certain themes, such as a high level of education and skills and the use of information technology as an integral part of the informational labour process, have become increasingly common to both the empirical and the theoretical literature.

Originality/value

The paper helps pave the way for more detailed research by providing an ideal‐typical profile of informational labour.
Corporate South Africa: making multicultural knowledge sharing work
Authors: Finestone Nicozaan , Snyman Retha
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Knowledge management in South Africa is still a very new field of management and knowledge managers are experiencing difficulties with the added dimension of multiculturalism. The history of South Africa, along with its current focus on cultural equality, complicates the matter. This research seeks to look at the challenges facing knowledge managers in a multicultural South African corporate environment.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory study, using in‐depth interviewing and a focus group as information collection methods, was launched to explore South African knowledge‐management practices in a cross‐section of companies in the economy.

Findings

Results showed that companies were afraid to acknowledge cultural differences because of major cultural sensitivity and, as a result, corporate culture was seen as the great equaliser of cultural exchanges. Knowledge managers, along with top management's support, must rather create a cooperative knowledge‐sharing environment in which South Africa's diverse cultures can interact, learn from one another and innovate.

Research limitations/implications

Serves as a pilot study that aims to explore new territory. From this explorative research, a new and extensive study of the contributing factors should be conducted. This study does not proclaim to be representative of all companies, as only a cross‐section of the South African corporate market was targeted for participation.

Practical implications

Company management and knowledge workers will see the necessity of incorporating different approaches to knowledge‐management implementation to suit individual needs.

Originality/value

Very little research has been done on this subject from a South African corporate‐environment perspective. These researchers hope to make knowledge workers more sensitive to the influence of multiculturalism on potential implementation of a knowledge‐management strategy.
Pretransition and progressive softening of bovine carbonic anhydrase II as probed by single molecule atomic force microscopy
Authors: Afrin Rehana , Alam Mohammad T. , Ikai Atsushi
Published: June 2005

To develop a simple method for probing the physical state of surface adsorbed proteins, we adopted the force curve mode of an atomic force microscope (AFM) to extract information on the mechanical properties of surface immobilized bovine carbonic anhydrase II under native conditions and in the course of guanidinium chloride–induced denaturation. A progressive increase in the population of individually softened molecules was probed under mildly to fully denaturing conditions. The use of the approach regime of force curves gave information regarding the height and rigidity of the molecule under compressive stress, whereas use of the retracting regime of the curves gave information about the tensile characteristics of the protein. The results showed that protein molecules at the beginning of the transition region possessed slightly more flattened and significantly more softened conformations compared with that of native molecules, but were still not fully denatured, in agreement with results based on solution studies. Thus the force curve mode of an AFM was shown to be sensitive enough to provide information concerning the different physical states of single molecules of globular proteins.
X‐ray structure of putative acyl‐ACP desaturase DesA2 from Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv
Authors: Dyer David H. , Lyle Karen S. , Rayment Ivan , Fox Brian G.
Published: June 2005

Genome sequencing showed that two proteins in Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv contain the metal binding motif (D/E)X2HX∼100(D/E)X2H characteristic of the soluble diiron enzyme superfamily. These putative acyl‐ACP desaturase genes desA1 and desA2 were cloned from genomic DNA and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3). DesA1 was found to be insoluble, but in contrast, DesA2 was a soluble protein amenable to biophysical characterization. Here, we report the 2.0 Å resolution X‐ray structure of DesA2 determined by multiple anomalous dispersion (MAD) phasing from a Se‐met derivative and refinement against diffraction data obtained on the native protein. The X‐ray structure shows that DesA2 is a homodimeric protein with a four‐helix bundle core flanked by five additional helices that overlay with 192 structurally equivalent amino acids in the structure of stearoyl‐ACP Δ9 desaturase from castor plant with an rms difference 1.42 Å. In the DesA2 crystals, one metal (likely Mn from the crystallization buffer) was bound in high occupancy at the B‐site of the conserved metal binding motif, while the A‐site was not occupied by a metal ion. Instead, the amino group of Lys‐76 occupied this position. The relationships between DesA2 and known diiron enzymes are discussed.
A reaction landscape identifies the intermediates critical for self‐assembly of virus capsids and other polyhedral structures
Authors: Endres Dan , Miyahara Masaki , Moisant Paul , Zlotnick Adam
Published: June 2005

The capsids of spherical viruses may contain from tens to hundreds of copies of the capsid protein(s). Despite their complexity, these particles assemble rapidly and with high fidelity. Subunit and capsid represent unique end states. However, the number of intermediate states in these reactions can be enormous—a situation analogous to the protein folding problem. Approaches to accurately model capsid assembly are still in their infancy. In this paper, we describe a sailshaped reaction landscape, defined by the number of subunits in each species, the predicted prevalence of each species, and species stability. Prevalence can be calculated from the probability of synthesis of a given intermediate and correlates well with the appearance of intermediates in kinetics simulations. In these landscapes, we find that only those intermediates along the leading edge make a significant contribution to assembly. Although the total number of intermediates grows exponentially with capsid size, the number of leading‐edge intermediates grows at a much slower rate. This result suggests that only a minute fraction of intermediates needs to be considered when describing capsid assembly.
A critical assessment of the topomer search model of protein folding using a continuum explicit‐chain model with extensive conformational sampling
Authors: Wallin Stefan , Chan Hue Sun
Published: June 2005

Recently, a series of closely related theoretical constructs termed the “topomer search model” (TSM) has been proposed for the folding mechanism of small, single‐domain proteins. A basic assumption of the proposed scenarios is that the rate‐limiting step in folding is an essentially unbiased, diffusive search for a conformational state called the native topomer defined by an overall native‐like topological pattern. Successes in correlating TSM‐predicted folding rates with that of real proteins have been interpreted as experimental support for the model. To better delineate the physics entailed, key TSM concepts are examined here using extensive Langevin dynamics simulations of continuum Cα chain models. The theoretical native topomers of four experimentally well‐studied two‐state proteins are characterized. Consistent with the TSM perspective, we found that the sizes of the native topomers increase with experimental folding rate. However, a careful determination of the corresponding probabilities that the native topomers are populated during a random search fails to reproduce the previously predicted folding rates. Instead, our results indicate that an unbiased TSM search for the native topomer amounts to a Levinthal‐like process that would take an impossibly long average time to complete. Furthermore, intraprotein contacts in all four native topomers considered exhibit no apparent correlation with the experimental ϕ‐values determined from the folding kinetics of these proteins. Thus, the present findings suggest that certain basic, generic yet essential energetic features in protein folding are not accounted for by TSM scenarios to date.
High‐quality homology models derived from NMR and X‐ray structures of E. coli proteins YgdK and Suf E suggest that all members of the YgdK/Suf E protein family are enhancers of cysteine desulfurases
Authors: Liu Gaohua , Li Zhaohui , Chiang Yiwen , Acton Thomas , Montelione Gaetano T. , Murray Diana , Szyperski Thomas
Published: June 2005

The structural biology of proteins mediating iron‐sulfur (Fe‐S) cluster assembly is central for understanding several important biological processes. Here we present the NMR structure of the 16‐kDa protein YgdK from Escherichia coli, which shares 35% sequence identity with the E. coli protein SufE. The SufE X‐ray crystal structure was solved in parallel with the YdgK NMR structure in the Northeast Structural Genomics (NESG) consortium. Both proteins are (1) key components for Fe‐S metabolism, (2) exhibit the same distinct fold, and (3) belong to a family of at least 70 prokaryotic and eukaryotic sequence homologs. Accurate homology models were calculated for the YgdK/SufE family based on YgdK NMR and SufE crystal structure. Both structural templates contributed equally, exemplifying synergy of NMR and X‐ray crystallography. SufE acts as an enhancer of the cysteine desulfurase activity of SufS by SufE–SufS complex formation. A homology model of CsdA, a desulfurase encoded in the same operon as YgdK, was modeled using the X‐ray structure of SufS as a template. Protein surface and electrostatic complementarities strongly suggest that YgdK and CsdA likewise form a functional two‐component desulfurase complex. Moreover, structural features of YgdK and SufS, which can be linked to their interaction with desulfurases, are conserved in all homology models. It thus appears very likely that all members of the YgdK/SufE family act as enhancers of Suf‐S‐like desulfurases. The present study exemplifies that “refined” selection of two (or more) targets enables high‐quality homology modeling of large protein families.
Structural model of the amino propeptide of collagen XI α1 chain with similarity to the LNS domains
Authors: Fallahi Arzhang , Kroll Becky , Warner Lisa R. , Oxford Rex J. , Irwin Katey M. , Mercer Linda M. , Shadle Susan E. , Oxford Julia Thom
Published: June 2005

Fibrillar collagens are the principal structural molecules of connective tissues. The assembly of collagen fibrils is regulated by quantitatively minor fibrillar collagens, types V and XI. A unique amino‐terminal propeptide domain of these collagens has been attributed this regulatory role. The structure of the amino terminal propeptide has yet to be determined. Low sequence similarity necessitated a secondary structure‐based method to carry out homology modeling based upon the determined structure of LNS family members, named for a common structure in the laminin LG5 domain, the neurexin 1B domain and the sex hormone binding globulin. Distribution of amino acids within the model suggested glycosaminoglycan interaction and calcium binding. These activities were tested experimentally. Sequence analyses of existing genes for collagens indicate that 16 known collagen α chains may contain an LNS domain. A similar approach may prove useful for structure/function studies of similar domains in other collagens with similar domains. This will provide mechanistic details of the organization and assembly of the extracellular matrix and the underlying basis of structural integrity in connective tissues. The absolute requirement for collagen XI in skeletal growth is indicated by collagen XI deficiencies such as chondrodystrophies found in the cho/cho mouse and in humans with Stickler syndrome.
Human full‐length Securin is a natively unfolded protein
Authors: Sánchez‐Puig Nuria , Veprintsev Dmitry B. , Fersht Alan R.
Published: June 2005

Human Securin, also called PTTG1 (pituitary tumor transforming gene 1 product), is an estrogen‐regulated proto‐oncogene with multifunctional properties. We characterized human full‐length Securin using a variety of biophysical techniques, such as nuclear magnetic resonance, circular dichroism, and size‐exclusion chromatography. Under physiological conditions, Securin is devoid of tertiary and secondary structure except for a small amount of poly‐(L‐proline) type II helix and its hydrodynamic characteristics suggest it behaves as an extended polypeptide. These results suggest that Securin is unstructured in solution and so belongs to the family of natively unfolded proteins. In addition, to gain structural and quantitative insight, we investigated the binding of Securin to p53. Analytical ultracentrifugation and fluorescence anisotropy studies revealed no evidence of any direct interaction between unmodified recombinant Securin and p53 in vitro.
The crystal structure of PfFabZ, the unique β‐hydroxyacyl‐ACP dehydratase involved in fatty acid biosynthesis of Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Kostrewa Dirk , Winkler Fritz K. , Folkers Gerd , Scapozza Leonardo , Perozzo Remo
Published: June 2005

The unique β‐hydroxyacyl‐ACP dehydratase in Plasmodium falciparum, PfFabZ, is involved in fatty acid biosynthesis and catalyzes the dehydration of β‐hydroxy fatty acids linked to acyl carrier protein. The structure was solved by single anomalous dispersion (SAD) phasing using a quick‐soaking experiment with potassium iodide and refined to a resolution of 2.1 Å. The crystal structure represents the first structure of a Plasmodium β‐hydroxyacyl‐ACP dehydratase with broad substrate specificity. The asymmetric unit contains a hexamer that appears as a trimer of dimers. Each dimer shows the known “hot dog” fold that has been observed in only a few other protein structures. Each of the two independent active sites in the dimer is formed by equal contributions from both subunits. The active site is mainly hydrophobic and looks like an L‐shaped tunnel. The catalytically important amino acids His 133 and Glu 147′ (from the other subunit), together with His98′, form the only hydrophilic site in this tunnel. The inner end of the active site tunnel is closed by the phenyl ring of Phe 169, which is located in a flexible, partly visible loop. In order to explain the acceptance of substrates longer than ∼C‐7, the phenyl ring must move away to open the tunnel. The present structure supports an enzymatic mechanism consisting of an elimination reaction catalyzed by His 133 and Glu147′. 3‐decynoyl‐N‐acetylcysteamine, an inhibitor known to interact with the E. coli dehydratase/isomerase, turned out to interact covalently with PfFabZ. A first model of PfFabZ with this potent inhibitor is presented.
Phytodermatitis from Ceratocephalus falcatus
Authors: Metin Ahmet , Çalka Ömer , Akdeniz Necmettin , Behçet Lütfi
Published: June 2005

Ceratocephalus falcatus (L.) Pers. (Ranunculaceae) is a wild plant. It grows abundantly in the Van province. The species of Ceratocephalus genus possess irritant properties from the presence of an innocuous glycoside, ranunculin. Here, we document 3 patients who were admitted to our clinic in different times from different districts with a common complaint of a large irritant contact dermatitis, resembling second‐degree burn injury after application of a plant poultice. The plant specimens in all patients were identified as C. falcatus and it was assessed worthwhile to report.
Severe contact urticaria to guar gum included as gelling agent in a local anaesthetic
Authors: Roesch Alexander , Haegele Till , Vogt Thomas , Babilas Philipp , Landthaler Michael , Szeimies Rolf‐Markus
Published: June 2005

We report the first case of a life‐threatening immediate‐type hypersensitivity caused by Dynexan™, a local anaesthetic gel. After mucosal application by his dentist, a 63‐year‐old man rapidly developed urticaria, dyspnea and, at last, he collapsed and remained unconscious for 2 hr despite emergency care. While the standard prick tests were negative to all local anaesthetics tested including lidocaine, a 1‐fold positive reaction was detected to Meyprogat 60™, an ingredient of Dynexan™. As the gelling agent Meyprogat 60™ represents a derivative of guar (synonymous guar gum, guaran, E‐412), we subsequently tested different guar products derived from Cyamopsis tetragonoloba beans and, as control, the closely related locust bean gum E‐410. In the prick‐to‐prick tests, the guar‐derived food additive Provigel™ NAG 905 provoked a 1‐fold positive reaction. Native guar beans pounded and resuspended in water showed a 2‐fold positive reaction, whereas no reaction was found to derivatives of locust bean gum. Specific immunoglobulin E were negative in all cases. Despite the common use of guar as versatile food additive or gelling agent, this is the first case of a severe immediate‐type hypersensitivity after mucosal contact.
Sensitivity to Myroxylon pereirae resin (balsam of Peru). A study of 50 cases
Authors: Avalos‐Peralta P. , García‐Bravo B. , Camacho F. M.
Published: June 2005

The Myroxylon pereirae resin (MP; balsam of Peru) is a natural resin used in the local treatment of burns and wounds. M. pereirae extracts and distillates are very often contained in a wide range of cosmetic products and causes frequently allergic contact dermatitis – to the extent of being considered an allergy marker to perfumes. We have carried out a retrospective study of 863 patients who have been submitted to patch tests from January 2002 to June 2004. A total of 50 patients were positive to MP. Thus, the prevalence was 5.79%, slightly higher in men (7.32%) than in women (4.91%). The positive patch tests were relevant in 64%. Over the last years, it appears that there is a clear increase of the prevalence of the sensitization to MP in all the studies published. We observe an increase of the prevalence especially in aged patients, where the sensitization is linked with the use of topical medications secondary to stasis dermatitis. The high frequency of allergy to MP in our area might be associated with manipulation of citrus fruits. The increasing use of cosmetic products by the male population can also be held responsible for the higher sensitization rate in this group of patients.
Contact sensitivity to preservatives in Turkey
Authors: Boyvat Ay⋅e , Akyol Aynur , Gürgey Erbak
Published: June 2005

This study was designed to evaluate the frequency of contact sensitivity to 14 common preservatives among patients with contact dermatitis in Turkey. From 2000 to 2004, 308 patients with the diagnosis of contact dermatitis were patch tested in the Department of Dermatology, Ankara University School of Medicine. All patients were patch tested with European standard series. In addition to the four preservatives included in the standard series, patients were also tested with DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, bromonitropropane diol, diazolidinyl urea, thimerosal, propylene glycol, chlorocresol, chloroxylenol, methyldibromoglutaronitrile/phenoxyethanol (MDBGN/PE) and benzalkonium chloride. Out of the 308 patients suspected of having contact dermatitis, 23 patients were found to have positive reactions to one or more preservatives. Preservatives that were the most frequent cause of positive reactions were thimerosal (1.6%), benzalkonium chloride (1.6%), formaldehyde (1.3%) and MDBGN/PE (0.9%). In our study, 65% of the positive reactions were caused by allergens not present in the standard series, such as thimerosal, benzalkonium chloride and MDBGN/PE. Although thimerosal caused a high rate of contact sensitivity, it may not be considered as an important allergen, because clinical relevance could not be found in any of the patients.
Are we reaching the limits or our ability to detect skin effects with our current testing and measuring methods for consumer products?
Authors: Farage Miranda A.
Published: June 2005

Testing for potential adverse skin effects is a key part of both the overall safety assessment for many consumer products and the evaluation of potential product improvements in mildness. Whilst modern tissue and paper products (i.e. facial tissues, catamenial products, baby wipes and baby and adult diapers) are inherently very mild to skin, current test methodology may not be robust enough to evaluate future improvements in such products. This article provides a commentary on several technologies we have been exploring to improve the sensitivity of test methods for tissue and paper products. The focus has been on three approaches: (i) further exaggerating exposure conditions using novel approaches to sample application, (ii) increasing the sensitivity of the manner in which we score for irritant effects, either visually or via instrumentation and (iii) quantitatively measuring additional endpoints, i.e. subjective sensory effects.
Selecting thresholds of occurrence in the prediction of species distributions
Authors: Liu Canran , Berry Pam M. , Dawson Terence P. , Pearson Richard G.
Published: June 2005

Transforming the results of species distribution modelling from probabilities of or suitabilities for species occurrence to presences/absences needs a specific threshold. Even though there are many approaches to determining thresholds, there is no comparative study. In this paper, twelve approaches were compared using two species in Europe and artificial neural networks, and the modelling results were assessed using four indices: sensitivity, specificity, overall prediction success and Cohen's kappa statistic. The results show that prevalence approach, average predicted probability/suitability approach, and three sensitivity‐specificity‐combined approaches, including sensitivity‐specificity sum maximization approach, sensitivity‐specificity equality approach and the approach based on the shortest distance to the top‐left corner (0,1) in ROC plot, are the good ones. The commonly used kappa maximization approach is not as good as the afore‐mentioned ones, and the fixed threshold approach is the worst one. We also recommend using datasets with prevalence of 50% to build models if possible since most optimization criteria might be satisfied or nearly satisfied at the same time, and therefore it's easier to find optimal thresholds in this situation.
Spatial analysis of an invasion front ofAcer platanoides: dynamic inferences from static data
Authors: Fang Wei
Published: June 2005

It is an open question whether the invading tree speciesAcer platanoidesis invading and displacing native trees within pre‐existing forest stands, or merely preferentially occupying new stands of secondary forest growth at the edges of existing forests. Several threads of spatial pattern analyses were used to assess the invasibility ofA. platanoides, and to link the invasion to the structure of a plant community in the deciduous forest of the northeastern United States. The analyses were based on maps of a contiguous 100×50 m area along anA. platanoidesinfestation gradient.  The distribution ofA. platanoideswas highly aggregated and the population importance value increased from 28.1 to 38.5% according to mortality estimated from standing dead trees, while the distribution of native tree species was close to random and importance value ofQuercusspp. decreased from 33.4 to 26.9% over time. The size distributions of each tree species across distance indicated thatA. platanoideswas progressively invading the interior of the forest while the native species (includingA. rubrum) were not spreading back towards theA. platanoidesmonospecific patch. The null hypothesis of no invasibility was rejected based on quantile regressions.  There were negative correlations betweenA. platanoidesdensity and the densities of native species in different functional groups, and negative correlation ofA. platanoidesdensity and the species diversity in forest understory. The null hypothesis thatA. platanoidesinvasion did not suppress native trees or understory was rejected based on Dutilleul's modified t‐test for correlation, consistent with experimental results in the same study site.  The combination of multiple spatial analyses of static data can be used to infer historical dynamical processes that shape a plant community structure. The concept of “envelop effects” was discussed and further developed.
Distribution of selected macroinvertebrates in a mosaic of temporary and permanent freshwater ponds as explained by autologistic models
Authors: Sanderson R. A. , Eyre M. D. , Rushton S. P.
Published: June 2005

We investigated the aquatic macroinvertebrate fauna of 76 ponds and small pools in an urban fringe landscape, and related the presence of ten species to measures of water permanence, pond area and environmental conditions using logistic models. The incidence of all the species was strongly associated with variation in hydroperiod, but patterns were more variable with the other explanatory variables. To determine whether the presence of a species at neighbouring ponds increased its probability of occurance at a pond we constructed a series of autologistic models, that differed from the aspatial logistic model in that they included a spatial autocovariate in the predictor terms. The improvement of model fit on inclusion of this autocovariate, measured as the decline in deviance compared to the aspatial models, was determined across a range of lag distances. In seven of the ten species, the autologistic models explained the incidence of the species amongst the ponds better than the aspatial models. Spatial effects were typically over short distances (<200 m) before declining, but in two species appeared to reach an asymptote, and we propose that variation in dispersal ability is the most likely factor producing these spatial effects. We conclude that it is essential that some measure of spatial autocorrelation is considered when evaluating the distribution of aquatic macroinvertebrates at small or medium scales.
Genetic diversity in Crambe maritima along the English Channel: the role of ocean currents in determining population structure
Authors: Bond J. M. , Daniels R. , Bioret F.
Published: June 2005

We utilised genetic markers (ISSR's) to investigate population structuring in Crambe maritima, a coastal perennial found in isolated populations on either side of the English Channel. Despite the expectation that smaller populations would contain lower levels of genetic diversity, we found no correlation with total population size or the number of flowering plants and genetic diversity. Although populations were genetically differentiated from each other, isolation by distance was not apparent in the whole data set or within the UK samples.  Despite being sampled from a wide geographic range, the majority of diversity (71%) was contained within populations, with no unique genotype, or even allele, identifying any population. When genetic distances were plotted using MDS techniques, samples from each population had a tendency to cluster, but the spread of points was wide indicating high levels of gene flow. High levels of gene flow, through the dispersal of seeds, were verified by assignment testing, which showed that 8.7% of individuals were assigned to a population other than the one they were collected from. The pattern of genetic variation can be explained by examining the direction of currents in the English Channel and Bay of Biscay. Gene flow, via seed dispersal, is possible between UK and French populations on either side of the English Channel. In contrast, French populations on the Bay of Biscay coast are effectively isolated by the direction of currents and consequently show a greater degree of genetic differentiation.
Positive relationship between regional distribution and local abundance in stream insects: a consequence of niche breadth or niche position?
Authors: Heino Jani
Published: June 2005

A positive relationship between regional distribution and local abundance of species is almost ubiquitous macroecological pattern, yet the mechanisms behind this pattern remain poorly understood. I tested for the relationship between regional distribution and local abundance of stream insect species in a boreal drainage system, with a specific aim to examine if this relationship follows the mechanistic basis of either the niche‐based (niche breadth and niche position) or metapopulation models. There was a positive relationship between regional distribution and local abundance of stream insects, and there also were significant relationships between distribution/abundance and niche breadth or niche position. These results thus suggest that widely distributed species tend to be, on average, locally more abundant, have wider niches and lower marginality of niche position with regard to environmental factors than species that have more restricted distributions. However, although significant, there was much unexplained variability around these relationships, suggesting that other mechanisms (e.g. metapopulation dynamics) besides differences in species’ niches are likely to affect the distribution and abundance of stream insects, at least within a drainage system. The results thus showed that 1) although niche position was more consistently related to the positive distribution‐abundance relationship, ecologists should not abandon niche breadth as a potential mechanism behind this relationship, and 2) that several mechanisms are likely to act in concert in determining the relationship between distribution and abundance of species.
Variation in ice conditions has strong effects on the breeding of marine birds at Prince Leopold Island, Nunavut
Authors: Gaston Anthony J. , Gilchrist H. Grant , Mallory Mark L.
Published: June 2005

The maximum extent of sea ice in the northern hemisphere has been contracting for several decades, with implications for all ice‐associated biota. To determine how variation in ice conditions affects reproduction in marine birds, we studied the effects of ice conditions on breeding of four species of seabirds over four years at Prince Leopold Island, Nunavut, a colony close to the limits of ice conditions where breeding is feasible. In 2000 and 2003, open water was present close to the colony in June, when the birds began to lay eggs. In 2001 and 2002, the ice edge in June was >200 km to the east of the colony, forcing birds to commute long distances to open water to feed. Egg‐laying by thick‐billed murres, black‐legged kittiwakes and glaucous gulls was delayed and eggs and clutches were smaller in 2001 and 2002. However, northern fulmars laid at the same time in all years, although their incubation shifts were longer in 2001 and 2002 than in 2003. Open water was present close to the colony by the time of hatching in all years. Despite this, nestling survival of northern fulmars, body condition and nestling growth of thick‐billed murres and body condition and nestling survival of black‐legged kittiwakes were lower in 2001 and 2002 than in –2000 and 2003. All these indicators suggest that feeding conditions in the years of late ice break‐up continued to be worse than usual even after open water was available at the colony. Our study suggests that current trends towards earlier ice break‐up in the Arctic may be beneficial for marine birds at Prince Leopold Island, at least in the short‐term.
The Ex‐factor
Authors: Drummond Helga
Published: June 2005

The past is littered with seemingly robust organisations disappearing into oblivion. But corporate extinction rarely happens by chance. Helga Drummond offers an alternative universe to show how a prosperous business can decline if companies fail to innovate.
Welcome Home: Innovating the Forward Supply Chain
Authors: Boyer Kenneth K. , Hult G. Tomas M.
Published: June 2005

Most retailers have moved relentlessly towards the low price, low customer contact, big box experience over the past three decades.

But, as Kenneth K Boyer and G Tomas M Hult show, good service is coming back into style. Reinventing home shopping, as part of a new forward supply chain mindset, could make the retail shopping experience more enjoyable and more convenient. Customers will value it — and pay for it.
Intangible Balls
Authors: Yang Deli , Sonmez Mahmut
Published: June 2005

How important are intangibles to a football club? Deli Yang and Mahmut Sonmez consider Europe's Champions League to reveal the implications of sponsorship and intangibles for football management and the broader sports sector.
The Mitsubishi Shogun
Authors: Cockerill Tony
Published: June 2005

Many unsuspecting workers fall into a new job in an unfamiliar country without an effective parachute. And although a parachute will prevent a crash landing, it is still only the beginning. Those who land safely are in very unfamiliar territory. Tony Cockerill reviews the story of Niall Murtagh, a free‐spirited backpacker who ended up as the first salaried westerner to work for Mitsubishi Electric, to show how managers could brief their foreign staff more effectively.
Limkain b1, a novel human autoantigen localized to a subset of ABCD3 and PXF marked peroxisomes
Authors: Dunster K , Lai F P L , Sentry J W
Published: June 2005

Detection of self-reactive antibodies has an established role in the diagnosis and monitoring of many human autoimmune diseases. Autoantibodies with restricted reactivity to cytoplasmic compartments and structures are an occasional incidental finding following routine examination of serum for antinuclear antibody reactivity. A prerequisite for rational exploitation of self-reactive antibodies, in either clinical or research settings, is the establishment of the molecular identity of the target autoantigen(s). Here we report on the identification of a novel autoantigen that co-localizes with a subset of cytoplasmic microbodies marked by ABCD3 (PMP-70) and/or PXF (PEX19). Immunoscreening a HeLa cell cDNA expression library with a human autoimmune serum identified two clones that encode fragments of limkain b1 (LKAP). We demonstrate that mouse polyclonal antibodies raised against a bacterially expressed fragment of limkain b1 mark the same cytoplasmic structures as human serum, as does an EGFP:LKAPCT429 fusion protein expressed in HeLa cells. An immunoblot screen against a bacterially expressed MBP:LKAPCT429 fusion protein substrate, using a cohort of 16 additional human sera that display Hep 2 cell cytoplasmic staining patterns similar to the prototype  serum,  identified  three  additional  sera  reactive  to  limkain  b1. This is the first report establishing the molecular identity of a peroxisomal autoantigen. Preliminary results suggest that limkain b1 may be a relatively common target of human autoantibodies reactive to cytoplasmic vesicle-like structures.
Analysis of intestinal haem-oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in clinical and experimental colitis
Authors: Paul G , Bataille F , Obermeier F , Bock J , Klebl F , Strauch U , Lochbaum D , Rümmele P , Farkas S , Schölmerich J , Fleck M , Rogler G , Herfarth H
Published: June 2005

Haem-oxygenase-1 (HO-1) has been shown to exert anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and anti-proliferative effects. We investigated HO-1 expression in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and could demonstrate a scattered expression of HO-1 in the intestinal epithelium of severely inflamed colonic mucosa of patients with IBD compared to control specimens such as diverticulitis, suggesting dysregulated expression in IBD. To further analyse potential mechanisms of HO-1 induction in the intestine we employed an in vitro epithelial cell apoptosis model and an experimental colitis model. In vitro induction of HO-1 by the HO-1 inducer cobalt protoporphyrin (CoPP) resulted in a dose-dependent down-regulation of caspase-3 activation in HT-29 cells, indicating an anti-apoptotic function of HO-1 in the intestine. In vivo, preventive HO-1 induction by CoPP in acute dextran sodium sulphate (DSS)-induced colitis led to a significant down-regulation of colonic inflammation (P < 0·01) with a concomitant reduction in interferon (IFN)-γ − but unaffected interleukin (IL)-10-secretion by isolated mesenteric lymph nodes (P < 0·01). Additionally, TUNEL staining of colonic sections demonstrated fewer apoptotic epithelial cells in the colon of CoPP treated animals. No beneficial effects were observed if HO-1 was induced by CoPP after the onset of acute colitis or in chronic DSS-induced colitis. In conclusion, the data suggest a protective role of HO-1 if it is induced before the onset of inflammation. However, as shown by the lack of effects in established acute or in chronic colitis, the induction of HO-1 may not be a promising approach for the treatment of IBD.