bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence that the Cytoskeleton Plays a Key Role in Cell Adhesion
Authors: Chong AS‐F , Parish CR , Coombe DR
Published: July 2007

A range of pharmacological agents with defined effects on cell metabolism was used to determine the metabolic requrements of three cell adhesion systems: aggregation of cells from the sponge, Ophlitaspongia tennis; fibronectin‐induced adhesion of fibroblasts to subsiraia and an in vitro murine thymocyic‐macrophage interaction. Cell adhesion in all three systems was found to have similar metabolic requirements, implying that the mechanism of cell adhesion has been conserved through evolution. In fact, based on analysis of F‐actin organization in throblasts, all of the pharmacological agents that inhibited cell adhesion were found to disrupt the cytoskeleion, suggesting that the cytoskeieton plays a central role in the adhesion process, presumably via redisiribution of cell surface molecules. This concept was supported by the finding that the same drugs that inhibited cell adhesion inhibited anti‐lg‐induced redistribution of surface Ig on B tymphocytes. The drug Inhibition studies also revealed that two drugs, bromophenacyl bromide (BPB) and norditiydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), that were previously believed lo be selective inhibitors of arachidonic acid synthesis and metabolism, are also potent disruptors of the cyioskeleton.
Substance P induces chemotaxis of neutrophils in normal and capsaicin‐treated rats
Authors: Helme RD , Eglezos A , Hosking CS
Published: July 2007

Primary afferent unmyelinated nerves modulate the inflammatory response to injury through a process known as neurogenic inflammation. The undecapeptide Substance P is contained in many of these nerves and therefore may be an important mediator of the response. Treatment of neonatal rats with capsaicin permanently destroys primary afferent unmyelinated nerves and depletes the skin and other organs of Substance P. These animals have a reduced capacity to mount an inflammatory response to injury. We examined the ability of Substance P to chemo‐attract neutrophils from normal rats and rats treated as neonates with capsaicin. Substance P was shown to cause normal rat neutrophils to chemotact at an optimum concentration of 5 × 10−5 M. Equivalent chemotaxis was observed in neutrophils from rats pretreated as neonates with capsaicin. Substance P did not increase chemokinesis. These in vitro results support the view that the reduced neurogenic inflammatory response seen in capsaicin‐pretreated rats is not due to a direct toxic effect of capsaicin on neutrophils, but may be due to a decreased availability of neurally derived Substance P at the site of injury.
Monoclonal antibodies reactive with mucin expressed in breast cancer
Authors: Xing P‐X , Tjandra JJ , Stacker SA , Teh JG , Thompson CH , McLaughlin PJ , McKenzie IFC
Published: July 2007

Three murine monoclonal antibodies (BC 1, BC2 and BC3) were developed against human milk fat globule membrane (HMFGM). By immunoperoxidase staining, it was found that the antigenic determinants had a predominant distribution in breast cancer tissue. In addition, the antibodies reacted preferentially with mucin derived from human milk rather than that derived from the breast cancer cell line ZR75; they also recognized polymorphic high molecular weight components (MW ≥ 230 000) in serum and in human milk fat globule membrane. Thus the antibodies appear to react with a component of the family of mucins found in breast cancer and human milk and it appears likely that at least part of each epitope is protein in nature. Antibodies BC1, BC2 and BC3 recognized related but not identical epitopes, and they appear to be co‐expressed on the same molecules as 3E1·2‐defined antigen (mammary serum antigen, MSA) which is also a member of the family of breast cancer‐related mucin. However, the 3E1 2 epitope is distinct and non‐cross‐reactive with those described for BC1, BC2 and BC3. The BC2 and BC3 defined epitopes were examined for their value in serum assays. Immunoassay was developed with a combination of two antibodies, using antibody BC3 for antigen capture and antibody BC2 or 3E1·2 for antigen detection and gave reasonable sensitivity (~85%) and specificity (~95%) in such serum tests for breast cancer. In a limited study, these tests appeared to complement the MSA test in the detection of breast cancer.
Gm allogenotype distribution and lack of HLA‐DR, Gm interaction in SLE and CREST/PSS
Authors: Jazwinska Elizabeth C , Dunckley Heather , Gatenby Paul A , Serjeantson Susan W
Published: July 2007

The distribution of Gm allogenotypes (Gm allotypes identified by IgCH restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis) was compared in 66 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, 38 CREST/PSS patients and 56 healthy controls. Patient/control comparison showed that Gm homozygosity was increased in the CREST/PSS group (P<0·05) but not in the SLE group. HLA‐DR5 is significantly increased in frequency in this series of CREST/PSS patients compared to controls (P<0·001), and log linear regression analysis showed that although both DR5 and Gm homozygosity were significant factors determining disease susceptibility, there was no evidence of an interactive effect between these two groups of genes increasing the predisposition to CREST/PSS.
Peroxynitrite mediates the failure of neutrophil migration in severe polymicrobial sepsis in mice
Authors: Torres‐Dueñas D , Celes M R N , Freitas A , Alves‐Filho J C , Spiller F , Dal‐Secco D , Dalto V F , Rossi M A , Ferreira S H , Cunha F Q
Published: July 2007

Background and purpose:

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response resulting from the inability of the host to restrict local infection. The failure of neutrophil migration to the infection site is one of the mechanisms involved in this process. Recently, it was demonstrated that this event is mediated by nitric oxide (NO). The present study addresses the possibility that peroxynitrite (ONOO‐), a NO‐derived powerful oxidizing and nitrating compound, could also be involved in neutrophil migration failure.

Experimental approach:

Male C57Bl/6 mice were subjected to moderate (MSI) or severe (SSI) septic injury, both induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). The leukocyte rolling and adhesion in the mesentery was evaluated by intravital microscopy. Cytokines (TNF‐α and MIP‐1α) were measured by ELISA and 3‐nitrotyrosine (3‐NT) by immunofluorescence.

Key results:

Compared with saline pretreatment of SSI mice, pre‐treatment with uric acid, a ONOO‐ scavenger, partially restored the failure of neutrophil rolling, adhesion and migration to the site of infection. These mice also presented low circulating bacterial counts and diminished systemic inflammatory response. Pretreatment with uric acid reduced 3‐NT labelling in leukocytes in mesenteric tissues and in neutrophils obtained from peritoneal exudates. Finally, uric acid pretreatment enhanced significantly the survival rate in the SSI mice. Similarly, treatment with FeTPPs, a more specific ONOO‐ scavenger, re‐established neutrophil migration and increased mice survival rate.

Conclusions and implications:

These results indicate that ONOO‐ contributed to the reduction of neutrophil/endothelium interaction and the consequent failure of neutrophil migration into infection foci and hence susceptibility to severe sepsis.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2007) 152, 341–352; doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707393; published online 16 July 2007
Brefeldin A Action and Recovery in Chlamydomonas are Rapid and Involve Fusion and Fission of Golgi Cisternae
Authors: Hummel E. , Schmickl R. , Hinz G. , Hillmer S. , Robinson D. G.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Chlamydomonas noctigama has a non‐motile Golgi apparatus consisting of several Golgi stacks adjacent to transitional ER. These domains are characterized by vesicle‐budding profiles and the lack of ribosomes on the side of the ER proximal to the Golgi stacks. Immunogold labelling confirms the presence of COPI‐proteins at the periphery of the Golgi stacks, and COPII‐proteins at the ER‐Golgi interface. After addition of BFA (10 μg/ml) a marked increase in the number of vesicular profiles lying between the ER and the Golgi stacks is seen. Serial sections of cells do not provide any evidence for the existence of tubular connections between the ER and the Golgi stacks, supporting the notion that COPI‐ but not COPII‐vesicle production is affected by BFA. The fusion of COPII‐vesicles at the cis‐Golgi apparatus apparently requires the presence of retrograde COPI‐vesicles. After 15 min the cisternae of neighbouring Golgi stacks begin to fuse forming “mega‐Golgis”, which gradually curl before fragmenting into clusters of vesicles and tubules. These are surrounded by the transitional ER on which vesicle‐budding profiles are still occasionally visible. Golgi remnants continue to survive for several hours and do not completely disappear. Washing out BFA leads to a very rapid reassembly of Golgi cisternae. At first, clusters of vesicles are seen adjacent to transitional ER, then “mini Golgis” are seen whose cisternae grow in length and number to produce “mega Golgis”. These structures then divide by vertical fission to produce Golgi stacks of normal size and morphology roughly 60 min after drug wash‐out.
Equivalence of Three Allocation Currencies as Estimates of Reproductive Allocation and Somatic Cost of Reproduction in Pinguicula vulgaris
Authors: Méndez M. , Karlsson P. S.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Which is the most appropriate currency (biomass, energy, water, or some mineral nutrient) for expressing resource allocation in plants has been repeatedly discussed. Researchers need to assess to which extent interindividual, interpopulational, or interspecific comparisons of resource allocation could be affected by the allocation currency chosen. The “currency issue” is relevant to at least three related aspects of resource allocation to reproduction: (a) reproductive allocation (RA), (b) size‐dependence of reproductive allocation, and (c) somatic cost of reproduction (SCR). Empirical tests have mostly dealt with the first aspect only. We examined the equivalence of estimates for the three aspects above across three different allocation currencies (dry mass, N, P) in 11 populations of Pinguicula vulgaris. For RA we studied the equivalence of allocation currencies at three scales: among individuals of the same population, between populations of the same species, and among species. Equivalence of currencies in the ranking of RA for individuals within populations was high (Rs 0.43) and did not strongly decrease when comparing populations or species. Excepting for size‐dependence of RA, ranking of RA, or SCR between populations was equivalent for biomass and N, but not for P. Our study gives two positive guidelines for empirical plant reproductive ecologists facing the “currency issue”: (1) become increasingly concerned about the “currency issue” as you increase the scale of your comparison from individuals to populations to species, and (2) avoid estimating allocation in redundant currencies (biomass and N in our case) and choose preferentially “complementary” currencies that provide a broader view of allocation patterns (biomass and P in our case).
Effects of the network structural properties on its controllability
Authors: Sorrentino Francesco
Published: July 2007

In a recent paper, it has been suggested that the controllability of a diffusively coupled complex network, subject to localized feedback loops at some of its vertices, can be assessed by means of a Master Stability Function approach, where the network controllability is defined in terms of the spectral properties of an appropriate Laplacian matrix. Following that approach, a comparison study is reported here among different network topologies in terms of their controllability. The effects of heterogeneity in the degree distribution, as well as of degree correlation and community structure, are discussed.
Hydrodynamic relations for direct-drive fast-ignition and conventional inertial confinement fusion implosions
Authors: Zhou C. D. , Betti R.
Published: July 2007

Relations between stagnation and in-flight phases are derived both analytically and numerically, for hydrodynamic variables relevant to direct-drive inertial confinement fusion implosions. Scaling laws are derived for the stagnation values of the shell density and areal density and for the hot-spot pressure, temperature, and areal density. A simple formula is also derived for the thermonuclear energy gain and in-flight aspect ratio. Implosions of cryogenic deuterium-tritium capsules driven by UV laser energies ranging from 25kJto2MJ are simulated with a one-dimensional hydrodynamics code to generate the implosion database used in the scaling law derivation. These scaling laws provide guidelines for optimized fuel assembly and laser pulse design for direct-drive fast ignition and conventional inertial confinement fusion.
Brain potentials reveal unconscious translation during foreign-language comprehension
Authors: Thierry Guillaume , Wu Yan Jing
Published: July 2007

Whether the native language of bilingual individuals is active during second-language comprehension is the subject of lively debate. Studies of bilingualism have often used a mix of first- and second-language words, thereby creating an artificial “dual-language” context. Here, using event-related brain potentials, we demonstrate implicit access to the first language when bilinguals read words exclusively in their second language. Chinese–English bilinguals were required to decide whether English words presented in pairs were related in meaning or not; they were unaware of the fact that half of the words concealed a character repetition when translated into Chinese. Whereas the hidden factor failed to affect behavioral performance, it significantly modulated brain potentials in the expected direction, establishing that English words were automatically and unconsciously translated into Chinese. Critically, the same modulation was found in Chinese monolinguals reading the same words in Chinese, i.e., when Chinese character repetition was evident. Finally, we replicated this pattern of results in the auditory modality by using a listening comprehension task. These findings demonstrate that native-language activation is an unconscious correlate of second-language comprehension.
Balamuthia mandrillaris interactions with human brain microvascular endothelial cells in vitro
Authors: Matin Abdul , Siddiqui Ruqaiyyah , Jung Suk-Yul , Kim Kwang Sik , Stins Monique , Khan Naveed Ahmed
Published: July 2007

Balamuthia amoebic encephalitis (BAE) is a serious human disease almost always leading to death. An important step in BAE is amoebae invasion of the bloodstream, followed by their haematogenous spread. Balamuthia mandrillaris entry into the central nervous system most likely occurs at the blood–brain barrier sites. Using human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs), which constitute the blood–brain barrier, this study determined (i) the ability of B. mandrillaris to bind to HBMECs and (ii) the associated molecular mechanisms. Adhesion assays revealed that B. mandrillaris exhibited greater than 90 % binding to HBMECs in vitro. To determine whether recognition of carbohydrate moieties on the surface of the HBMECs plays a role in B. mandrillaris adherence to the target cells, adhesion assays were performed in the presence of the saccharides mannose, galactose, xylose, glucose and fucose. It was observed that adherence of B. mandrillaris was significantly reduced by galactose, whilst the other saccharides had no effect. Acetone fixation of amoebae, but not of HBMECs, abolished adhesion, suggesting that B. mandrillaris adhesin(s) bind to galactose-containing glycoproteins of HBMECs. B. mandrillaris also bound to microtitre wells coated with galactose–BSA. By affinity chromatography using a galactose–Sepharose column, a galactose-binding protein (GBP) was isolated from detergent extracts of unlabelled amoebae. The isolation of a GBP from cell-surface-biotin-labelled amoebae suggested its membrane association. One-dimensional SDS-PAGE confirmed the proteinaceous nature of the GBP and determined its molecular mass as approximately 100 kDa. This is the first report suggesting the role of a GBP in B. mandrillaris interactions with HBMECs.
The PP2C-Type Phosphatase AP2C1, Which Negatively Regulates MPK4 and MPK6, Modulates Innate Immunity, Jasmonic Acid, and Ethylene Levels inArabidopsis
Authors: Schweighofer Alois , Kazanaviciute Vaiva , Scheikl Elisabeth , Teige Markus , Doczi Robert , Hirt Heribert , Schwanninger Manfred , Kant Merijn , Schuurink Robert , Mauch Felix , Buchala Antony , Cardinale Francesca , Meskiene Irute
Published: July 2007

Wound signaling pathways in plants are mediated by mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and stress hormones, such as ethylene and jasmonates. In Arabidopsis thaliana, the transmission of wound signals by MAPKs has been the subject of detailed investigations; however, the involvement of specific phosphatases in wound signaling is not known. Here, we show that AP2C1, an Arabidopsis Ser/Thr phosphatase of type 2C, is a novel stress signal regulator that inactivates the stress-responsive MAPKs MPK4 and MPK6. Mutant ap2c1 plants produce significantly higher amounts of jasmonate upon wounding and are more resistant to phytophagous mites (Tetranychus urticae). Plants with increased AP2C1 levels display lower wound activation of MAPKs, reduced ethylene production, and compromised innate immunity against the necrotrophic pathogen Botrytis cinerea. Our results demonstrate a key role for the AP2C1 phosphatase in regulating stress hormone levels, defense responses, and MAPK activities in Arabidopsis and provide evidence that the activity of AP2C1 might control the plant's response to B. cinerea.
A Unique β1,3-Galactosyltransferase Is Indispensable for the Biosynthesis of N-Glycans Containing Lewis a Structures in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Strasser Richard , Bondili Jayakumar Singh , Vavra Ulrike , Schoberer Jennifer , Svoboda Barbara , Glössl Josef , Léonard Renaud , Stadlmann Johannes , Altmann Friedrich , Steinkellner Herta , Mach Lukas
Published: July 2007

In plants, the only known outer-chain elongation of complex N-glycans is the formation of Lewis a [Fucα1-4(Galβ1-3)GlcNAc-R] structures. This process involves the sequential attachment of β1,3-galactose and α1,4-fucose residues by β1,3-galactosyltransferase and α1,4-fucosyltransferase. However, the exact mechanism underlying the formation of Lewis a epitopes in plants is poorly understood, largely because one of the involved enzymes, β1,3-galactosyltransferase, has not yet been identified and characterized. Here, we report the identification of an Arabidopsis thaliana β1,3-galactosyltransferase involved in the biosynthesis of the Lewis a epitope using an expression cloning strategy. Overexpression of various candidates led to the identification of a single gene (named GALACTOSYLTRANSFERASE1 [GALT1]) that increased the originally very low Lewis a epitope levels in planta. Recombinant GALT1 protein produced in insect cells was capable of transferring β1,3-linked galactose residues to various N-glycan acceptor substrates, and subsequent treatment of the reaction products with α1,4-fucosyltransferase resulted in the generation of Lewis a structures. Furthermore, transgenic Arabidopsis plants lacking a functional GALT1 mRNA did not show any detectable amounts of Lewis a epitopes on endogenous glycoproteins. Taken together, our results demonstrate that GALT1 is both sufficient and essential for the addition of β1,3-linked galactose residues to N-glycans and thus is required for the biosynthesis of Lewis a structures in Arabidopsis. Moreover, cell biological characterization of a transiently expressed GALT1-fluorescent protein fusion using confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed the exclusive location of GALT1 within the Golgi apparatus, which is in good agreement with the proposed physiological action of the enzyme.
Blending existentialist and constructionist approaches in leadership studies
Authors: Ford Jackie , Lawler John
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the contribution of combined social constructionist and existential perspectives to the understanding of leadership and calls for a reconsideration of the objectivist, functionalist assumptions and approaches to leadership. It aims to argue the value of incorporating the subjective perspective through two related approaches.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper considers the contribution of an existentialist perspective before going on to explore the value of a social constructionist approach.

Findings

This paper calls for a reconsideration of the objectivist, functionalist assumptions and approaches to leadership and argues the value of incorporating the subjective perspective through two related approaches.Originality/value– The value of the paper is in the combination of social constructionist and existential perspectives in relation to understanding the experience of leadership. This is intended to have longer‐term implications both for practice, for how people share understandings of leadership, and for research in considering how these ideas might be explored further.
Organizing in the mist: a case study in leadership and complexity
Authors: Simpson Peter
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to help develop an understanding of how complexity theory may be applied to an understanding of leadership and organizational dynamics and contributes to the growing body of literature in the same subject.

Design/methodology/approach

Stacey's theory of complex responsive processes is used to analyse leadership and organizational dynamics in an unusual example of an organizational simulation exercise on an MBA programme.

Practical implications

This article shows how the theory of complex responsive processes may offer the potential to understand episodes of emergent, and potentially creative, forms of organization and leadership. It demonstrates how to recognise and work with the qualities of participation, conversational life, anxiety, diversity, and with unpredictability and paradox.

Originality/value

This paper complements previous articles in LODJ that seek to use complexity theories in the analysis of leadership and organizational dynamics. It demonstrates how an analysis from the perspective of complex responsive processes differs from that of complexity theories that focus on systemic rather than process thinking and that do not incorporate insights from psychology and social theory.
Towards a definition of a business performance measurement system
Authors: Franco‐Santos Monica , Kennerley Mike , Micheli Pietro , Martinez Veronica , Mason Steve , Marr Bernard , Gray Dina , Neely Andrew
Published: July 2007

Purpose

Scholars in the field of performance measurement tend to use the term business performance measurement (BPM) systems without explaining exactly what they mean by it. This lack of clarity creates confusion and comparability issues, and makes it difficult for researchers to build on one an each other's work. The purpose of this paper is to identify the key characteristics of a BPM system, by reviewing the different definitions of a BPM system that exist in the literature. This work aims to open a debate on what are the necessary and sufficient conditions of a BPM system. It is also hoped that a greater level of clarity in the performance measurement research arena will be encouraged.

Design/methodology/approach

The performance measurement literature is reviewed using a systematic approach.

Findings

Based on this research, a set of conditions of a BPM system has been proposed from which researchers can choose those which are necessary and sufficient conditions for their studies.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis in this paper provides a structure and set of characteristics that researchers could use as a reference framework to define a BPM system for their work, and as a way to define the specific focus of their investigations. More clarity and precision around the use of the BPM systems phrase will improve the generalisability and comparability of research in this area.

Originality/value

By reviewing the different definitions of a BPM system that exist in the literature this paper will hopefully stimulate a debate on the necessary and sufficient conditions of a BPM system and encourage a greater level of clarity in the performance measurement research arena.
Quality of business graduates in Vietnamese institutions: multiple perspectives
Authors: Quang Duoc Truong , Metzger Christoph
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this exploratory and analytical study is to investigate some quality indicators of graduates in business master programmes in Vietnam and the perception gaps of graduate quality if any among the three primary participants in the educational process, e.g. graduate, faculty and employers.

Design/methodology/approach

The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and MANOVA are the two major statistical approaches used for scale purification and data analysis. The population for this study is composed of 460 graduate students and 195 faculty members from 7 main tertiary institutions across Vietnam and 153 employers in Hochiminh City.

Findings

The findings from the study indicate that there are 19 variables which represent the graduate quality in business master programmes in Vietnam. Of the 19 variables, critical analysis, problem‐solving skills, and overall quality of work are the most important indicators. The findings also indicate that there is a significant difference of perception on graduate quality between the three groups surveyed. Research limitations/implications – As far as personal attributes are concerned, such indicators as willingness to learn, enthusiasm, and self‐motivation are rated differently. The similar views as well as the different ones on those variables might serve as points of reference for business schools and employers to update their curriculum and staff development programmes. Such multiple perspectives on graduate quality would also help to raise students' awareness of core skills and competencies needed for their future career.

Practical implications

The research findings are most applicable to business training programmes. For other types of training programmes, further research is to be recommended.

Originality/value

So far, there has not been any empirical research that relates to this issue in Vietnamese case, a special case for the transition process. An investigation into the graduate quality indicators in Vietnam, therefore, is desirable.
Organizational learning in representative Singapore public organizations
Authors: Yeo Roland K.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore several key issues on organizational learning and their contributions to theory, practice and policy in public‐sector management in Singapore. It also aims to determine the crucial factors and strategies in the development of organizational learning initiatives as a means of keeping competitive with the rapid changing business environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Four representative Singapore public organizations were chosen for this study. A total of 24 organizational learning practitioners, including senior management and human resources personnel, participated in the in‐depth interviewing.

Findings

It was found that Singapore's public sector is more concerned with the cognitive and behavioral development of individuals, rather than financial results.

Research limitations/implications

Although this study is limited by the single geographical context, it offers direction for further research.

Practical implications

Data revealed that: The complexity between different levels of learning can be reduced by understanding specific goals unique to each level; The relationship between learning and performance goes beyond tangible expectations; Reward and recognition is a catalyst for the development of organizational learning; and Dialogue and feedback is crucial to the implementation of organizational learning initiatives.

Originality/value

Organizational learning in the public sector has not been comprehensively explored. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of organizational and management issues that have arisen from the recent public sector reform in Singapore. It offers a spectrum of recommendations in feasible terms for both organizational practitioners and researchers.
Performance measurement systems in the Finnish public sector
Authors: Rantanen Hannu , Kulmala Harri I. , Lönnqvist Antti , Kujansivu Paula
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the specific problems faced by the Finnish public sector organizations in designing and implementing performance measurement systems (PMS).

Design/methodology/approach

An understanding of the problems is obtained by examining three case organizations in practice. In order to support the analysis of the empirical findings, a review of prior literature on the private and public sector PMSs is carried out.

Findings

The design and implementation processes in the Finnish public sector organizations differ significantly from the way they are realized in industrial private sector companies. The four underlying reasons for problems in public sector organizations are the following: there are many stakeholders with conflicting needs; the end products and goals are undefined; there is a lack of property ownership and lacking management skills.

Practical implications

By utilizing the results of the study, PMS design and implementation in the public sector can be carried out by taking into account and avoiding the evident pitfalls introduced in the study.

Originality/value

A large portion of the prior research on public sector PMSs consists of surveys and conceptual studies. This paper describes three case studies and reveals new insights into the specific challenges faced by public sector organizations, especially in designing and implementing PMSs.
Student evaluations of teaching: perceptions and biasing factors
Authors: Al‐Issa Ahmad , Sulieman Hana
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine students' perception of end‐of‐semester Student Evaluations of Teaching (SET), and to explore the extent to which SET are biased by non‐instructional factors.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey questionnaire about the end‐of‐semester SET was designed and administered to 819 students selected from a random list of summer classes at the American University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. Appropriate statistical analysis methods of the resulting data were performed.

Findings

The results of this study show that significant differences exist among the various demographic groups with respect to both students' perceptions of the evaluation process and their tendency to be biased by a number of non‐instructional factors. The study has presented evidence on how students' cultural and linguistic backgrounds affect their responses to SET.

Practical implications

This paper provides useful information for the academic community concerning the validity and reliability of SET rating scales used in US universities abroad and whether the data obtained from such rating scales should be used for administrative and personnel decisions. In addition, teachers should examine SET assessments with care before undertaking modifications to their teaching practices.

Originality/value

This paper was the first to examine SET in a US university overseas, where the majority of students are non‐native speakers of the English language, and of an Arab origin. The findings illuminate the importance of understanding the cultural and linguistic contexts of the institution in which SET are conducted.
Conflict management styles: the differences among the Chinese, Japanese, and Koreans
Authors: Kim Tae‐Yeol , Wang Chongwei , Kondo Mari , Kim Tae‐Hyun
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how the Chinese, Japanese, and Koreans resolve an interpersonal conflict with their supervisors and how cultural factors explain the differences in conflict management styles.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted involving 275 employees from China, Japan and South Korea. A hierarchical regression analysis and A‐matrix hypothesis test were used to analyze the data.

Findings

Koreans, compared with the Chinese and Japanese, were more likely to use a compromise style. In addition, the Japanese, compared with the Chinese and Koreans, were less likely to dominate and were more likely to oblige their supervisors. The country differences in obliging and dominating styles were partially explained by goal emphasis (self vs collective) and concern for the self, respectively.

Research limitations/implications

While limited to recalling specific incidents and self‐reported responses, there is evidence that East Asians differ from each other in resolving their interpersonal conflicts with supervisors. Future research needs to examine East Asian differences in resolving an interpersonal conflict with other targets such as peers and subordinates and using other kinds of conflict management styles such as mediation and arbitration.

Originality/value

This is one of few studies that have examined East Asian differences in conflict management styles.
The relationship between conflict and decision outcomes
Authors: Parayitam Satyanarayana , Dooley Robert S.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

Research on strategic decision making has over‐emphasized the importance of cognitive conflict because of its potential benefits. Recent research documented that, apart from the benefits, cognitive conflict leads to affective conflict. Taking information processing perspective, the present study seeks to argue that the benefits of cognitive conflict can be stimulated by the cognition‐based trust, while the interplay between cognitive conflict and affective conflict can be influenced by affect‐based trust. The present study therefore aims to demonstrate the divergent roles of the perceived trustworthiness as potential moderators in strategic decision‐making teams.

Design/methodology/approach

Using structured survey instrument, multi‐informant data was collected from CEOs and senior executives of 109 US hospitals. After performing confirmatory factor analysis of the measures used, the data was analyzed using hierarchical regression techniques to analyze divergent roles of cognition‐ and affect‐based trust as moderators in the relationship between conflict and decision outcomes.

Findings

Results showed that cognition‐based trust is the key to fortify the benefits of cognitive conflict while affect‐based trust is the panacea for the ills of cognitive conflict.

Research limitations/implications

The sample consisted of hospitals in healthcare industry only. Self‐report measures may have some inherent social desirability bias.

Practical implications

This study contributes to both practicing managers as well as to strategic management literature. This study suggests that trust between the executives involved in strategic decision‐making process plays an important role in enhancing decision quality. It is therefore suggested that CEOs and administrators engage the executives who have both cognition‐ and affect‐based trust with each other to have successful decision outcomes.

Originality/value

Though the sample in the present study focuses only on healthcare industry, to the extent strategic decision‐making process is similar in other industries, the findings can be generalizable across other industries.
Third party intervention strategies of managers in subordinates' conflicts in Turkey
Authors: Kamil Kozan M. , Ergin Canan , Varoglu Demet
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate strategies used by managers when intervening in subordinates' conflicts and the factors affecting choice of strategy in Turkish organizations, where heavy emphasis is placed on intermediaries in managing conflicts.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by means of a questionnaire from 392 employees of a convenience sample of 59 organizations, most of which were located in Ankara.

Findings

Factor analysis results showed that managers utilize as many as five strategies: mediation, inquisitorial (similar to arbitration), motivational tactics, conflict reduction through restructuring, and educating the parties. The conditions under which these strategies are used were analyzed by regression. Harmony emphasis in the organization led to increased use of mediation. However, harmony emphasis, when coupled with a low degree of delegation of authority to subordinates, resulted in increased use of the inquisitorial strategy. Harmony emphasis, when combined with substantive (as opposed to personal) conflicts and with high impact conflicts led to educating the subordinates. Motivational tactics were used more when the conflict had high impact at the workplace and had escalated or threatened to get out of control.

Research limitations/implications

Readers are cautioned on possible common factor bias; relations between variables may have emerged as a result of the data being reported by the same respondent.

Originality/value

The findings have research implications for future studies and for training of managers for conflict intervention in collectivistic cultures.
The role of the regulator in combating financial crimes – a Caribbean perspective
Authors: Pusey Ingrid
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the evolving role of financial sector regulators in the global effort to combat financial crimes. In particular, it seeks to address the factors that shaped the role of Caribbean regulators in this effort.

Design/methodology/approach

Case studies, secondary research and analyses of international requirements and domestic legislation.

Findings

Financial sector regulators in the Caribbean face numerous challenges endemic to small economies in meeting international expectations in relation to the fight financial crimes. This is particularly true of states that rely on the provision of off‐shore financial services as the economic mainstay. In spite of this, the region has made significant strides in addressing global demands.

Originality/value

This paper offers a perspective from the Caribbean region. It should be of interest to regulators and practicing lawyers.
Usability of pattern customising technology in the achievement and testing of fit for mass customisation
Authors: Apeagyei Phoebe R. , Otieno Rose
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The paper seeks to evaluate and present the usability of one pattern customising technology in the achievement and testing of garment fit.

Design/methodology/approach

This study focuses on the use of 3D technology in the testing of garment fit. It examines the usability of one pattern customising technology in the achievement and testing of fit and presents primary data from experiments on the provision and testing of garment fit of specified size patterns for a jacket and skirt. Findings on virtual and human fit trials and an evaluation of the 3D technology are presented.

Findings

The study found that 3D software for fit provision and testing is still in its infancy, although advancements are currently being made in this area. It establishes that while fit can be virtually tested with 3D technology, its usability is not yet fine‐tuned. It evaluates procedures and presents problematic features of the 3D software. It underscores that although some issues concerning efficient provision and testing of fit still exist, 3D technology overall provides adequate evaluation of fit.

Originality/value

This study highlights areas for fine tuning and provides a basis for further research. While discussing usability of one pattern technology, this paper presents a platform for comparative evaluation of other technology.
Social responsibility: key terms and their uses in property investment
Authors: Roberts Claire , Rapson Dan , Shiers David
Published: July 2007

Purpose

Corporate social responsibility (CSR), corporate governance (CG) and socially responsible investment (SRI) are now established terms among most large corporations, particularly in the field of investment. The aim of this paper is to explore the issue of social responsibility (SR) in property investment in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of existing literature across different disciplines sought to explore the scope and boundaries of these issues. This was followed by a review of the approaches to, and reporting protocols of the activities of the five largest property investment management companies in the UK.

Findings

The study revealed a significant variation in the way UK property investment management companies define and use SR‐related terms, both within and between companies in the same industry.

Originality/value

The potential for confusion, difficulties in communication (both within and between companies) and dilution of the true meaning of these terms is significant for the sector. These issue need to be addressed to ensure that SR‐related activities can make a more widely‐adopted contribution to the property in particular and to society in general.
ISO quality as a driver of continuous improvement
Authors: Sacchetti Luciana
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe some of the benefits received from a four‐year implementation of a Quality Management System in a small Italian Academic Library.

Design/methodology/approach

The Library of the Department of Statistics at University of Bologna, is one of the few Italian academic libraries currently with a Quality Management System accredited to the International UNI EN ISO 9001:2000 standard. This paper examines six knowledge‐based tools developed as part of the QMS, including the student and junior researchers' customer satisfaction survey, the stakeholder Focus Group, and the statistical indicators.

Findings

The paper finds that ISO Quality Management System has proved to be a powerful instrument for improving performance and increasing user satisfaction. By describing in documented procedures how the Library's services should be run, each member of staff effectively shares their personal knowledge with their fellows, and with the staff of the future.

Research limitations/implications

The Library's statistical environment enabled it to create and develop more sophisticated performance measurement tools and metrics than would have been the case in a different cultural environment.

Practical implications

This paper provides a useful overview of the implementation of a Quality Management System in an academic context and its positive side effects on human resources development, user satisfaction, and continual service improvement. Other Academic Libraries could gain considerable benefits through adopting a similar quality standard approach.

Originality/value

This paper provides a new outlook on using an international quality standard as a process to improve knowledge and awareness of an existing library system, enabling targeted service improvements. As such it is a valuable innovative tool for academic librarians.
The analysis of quartz c‐axis fabrics using a modified optical microscope
Authors: WILSON C. J. L. , RUSSELL‐HEAD D. S. , KUNZE K. , VIOLA G.
Published: July 2007

A new fully automated microfabric analyzer (MiFA) is described that can be used for the fast collection of high‐resolution spatial c‐axis orientation data from a set of digital polarized light images. At the onset of an analysis the user is presented with an axial‐distribution diagram (AVA –‘Achsenverteilungsanalyse’) of a thin section. It is then a simple matter to build‐up c‐axis pole figures from selected areas of interest. The c‐axis inclination and colatitudes at any pixel site is immediately available to create bulk fabric diagrams or to select measurements in individual areas. The system supports both the interactive selection of c‐axis measurement sites and grid array selection. A verification process allows the operator to exclude dubious measurements due to impurities, grain boundaries or bubbles. We present a comparison of bulk and individual c‐axis MiFA measurements to pole figures measured with an X‐ray texture goniometer and to data collected from a scanning electron microscope furnished with electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) facility. A second sample, an experimentally deformed quartzite, illustrates that crystal orientations can be precisely linked to any location within an individual grain.
Imaging applications of synchrotron X‐ray phase‐contrast microtomography in biological morphology and biomaterials science. I. General aspects of the technique and its advantages in the analysis of millimetre‐sized arthropod structure
Authors: BETZ OLIVER , WEGST ULRIKE , WEIDE DANIELA , HEETHOFF MICHAEL , HELFEN LUKAS , LEE WAH‐KEAT , CLOETENS PETER
Published: July 2007

Synchrotron‐generated X‐rays provide scientists with a multitude of investigative techniques well suited for the analysis of the composition and structure of all types of materials and specimens. Here, we describe the properties of synchrotron‐generated X‐rays and the advantages that they provide for qualitative morphological research of millimetre‐sized biological organisms and biomaterials. Case studies of the anatomy of insect heads, of whole microarthropods and of the three‐dimensional reconstruction of the cuticular tendons of jumping beetles, all performed at the beamline ID19 of the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), are presented to illustrate the techniques of phase‐contrast tomography available for anatomical and structural investigations. Various sample preparation techniques are described and compared and experimental settings that we have found to be particularly successful are given. On comparing the strengths and weaknesses of the technique with traditional histological thin sectioning, we conclude that synchrotron radiation microtomography has a great potential in biological microanatomy.
Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation with transarterial embolization is useful for treatment of stage 1 renal cell carcinoma with surgical risk: Results at 2‐year mean follow up
Authors: Arima Kiminobu , Yamakado Kouichirou , Kinbara Hiroyuki , Nakatsuka Atsuhiro , Takeda Kan , Sugimura Yoshiki
Published: July 2007

Objectives:  Despite laparoscopic partial nephrectomy and laparoscopic cryotherapy being performed lately, an even less invasive treatment would be desirable in high‐risk patients. Under local anesthesia with i.v. sedation, we were able to perform percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) combined with renal arterial embolization for unresectable stage 1 (T1NoMo) renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We evaluated the feasibility, safety and therapeutic effects of this technique after a 2‐year mean follow up.

Methods:  Thirty‐one patients who were not candidates for surgery underwent RFA for 36 stage 1 RCC. Twenty‐eight tumors were percutaneously ablated 6 days after the tumor vessels were embolized. Dynamic contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed to evaluate treatment at completion.

Results:  Tumor enhancement was eliminated after two RFA sessions in all tumors. Thirty tumors remained free of enhancement during a mean follow‐up period of 24.3 months. There were no major complications related to the procedures though one instance of pyonephrosis, two of subcapsular hematomas, one of retroperitoneal hemorrhage and one of nausea were seen after RFA. Two patients died of other diseases (i.e. colon cancer and cerebral bleeding) 20 and 26 months after RFA treatment. One patient had a local recurrence of tumor and underwent re‐RFA. The recurrence rate of RCC after successful RFA was 2.8%. There was no recurrence in patients who had tumors of less than 4 cm after RFA at a mean follow‐up period of 24.3 months. Local control was achieved in 100% of T1NoMo tumors including the recurrence case that underwent re‐RFA.

Conclusions:  The result of the present study at 2‐year mean follow up showed percutaneous RFA was a feasible, safe and promising therapy for the treatment of unresectable stage 1 RCC, especially those smaller than 4 cm.