bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spermine Block of the Strong Inward Rectifier Potassium Channel Kir2.1
Authors: Xie Lai-Hua , John Scott A. , Weiss James N.
Published: July 2002

Inward rectification in strong inward rectifiers such as Kir2.1 is attributed to voltage-dependent block by intracellular polyamines and Mg2+. Block by the polyamine spermine has a complex voltage dependence with shallow and steep components and complex concentration dependence. To understand the mechanism, we measured macroscopic Kir2.1 currents in excised inside-out giant patches from Xenopus oocytes expressing Kir2.1, and single channel currents in the inside-out patches from COS7 cells transfected with Kir2.1. We found that as spermine concentration or voltage increased, the shallow voltage-dependent component of spermine block at more negative voltages was caused by progressive reduction in the single channel current amplitude, without a decrease in open probability. We attributed this effect to spermine screening negative surface charges involving E224 and E299 near the inner vestibule of the channel, thereby reducing K ion permeation rate. This idea was further supported by experiments in which increasing ionic strength also decreased Kir2.1 single channel amplitude, and by mutagenesis experiments showing that this component of spermine block decreased when E224 and E299, but not D172, were neutralized. The steep voltage-dependent component of block at more depolarized voltages was attributed to spermine migrating deeper into the pore and causing fast open channel block. A quantitative model incorporating both features showed excellent agreement with the steady-state and kinetic data. In addition, this model accounts for previously described substate behavior induced by a variety of Kir2.1 channel blockers.
Molecular Proximity of Kv1.3 Voltage-gated Potassium Channels and β1-Integrins on the Plasma Membrane of Melanoma Cells
Authors: Artym Vira V. , Petty Howard R.
Published: July 2002

Tumor cell membranes have multiple components that participate in the process of metastasis. The present study investigates the physical association of β1-integrins and Kv1.3 voltage-gated potassium channels in melanoma cell membranes using resonance energy transfer (RET) techniques. RET between donor-labeled anti–β1-integrin and acceptor-labeled anti-Kv1.3 channels was detected on LOX cells adherent to glass and fibronectin-coated coverslips. However, RET was not observed on LOX cells in suspension, indicating that molecular proximity of these membrane molecules is adherence-related. Several K+ channel blockers, including tetraethylammonium, 4-aminopyridine, and verapamil, inhibited RET between β1-integrins and Kv1.3 channels. However, the irrelevant K+ channel blocker apamin had no effect on RET between β1-integrins and Kv1.3 channels. Based on these findings, we speculate that the lateral association of Kv1.3 channels with β1-integrins contributes to the regulation of integrin function and that channel blockers might affect tumor cell behavior by influencing the assembly of supramolecular structures containing integrins.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Dependence of Radiation-induced Transcription Factor Activation in Human Breast Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Amorino George P. , Hamilton Virginia M. , Valerie Kristoffer , Dent Paul , Lammering Guido , Schmidt-Ullrich Rupert K.
Published: July 2002

Ionizing radiation (1–5 Gy) activates the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a major effector of the p42/44 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. MAPK and its downstream effector, p90 ribosomal S6 kinase (p90RSK), phosphorylate transcription factors involved in cell proliferation. To establish the role of the EGFR/MAPK pathway in radiation-induced transcription factor activation, MDA-MB-231 human breast carcinoma cells were examined using specific inhibitors of signaling pathways. Gel-shift analysis revealed three different profile groups: 1) transcription factors that responded to both radiation (2 Gy) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) (CREB, Egr, Ets, and Stat3); 2) factors that responded to radiation, but not EGF (C/EBP and Stat1); and 3) those that did not respond significantly to either radiation or EGF (AP-1 and Myc). Within groups 1 and 2, a two- to fivefold maximum stimulation of binding activity was observed at 30–60 min after irradiation. Interestingly, only transcription factors that responded to EGF had radiation responses significantly inhibited by the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, AG1478; these responses were also abrogated by farnesyltransferase inhibitor (FTI) or PD98059, inhibitors of Ras and MEK1/2, respectively. Moreover, radiation-induced increases in CREB and p90RSK phosphorylation and activation of Stat3 and Egr-1 reporter constructs by radiation were all abolished by AG1478. These data demonstrate a distinct radiation response profile at the transcriptional level that is dependent on enhanced EGFR/Ras/MAPK signaling.
Differential Recognition of Tyrosine-based Basolateral Signals by AP-1B Subunit μ1B in Polarized Epithelial Cells
Authors: Sugimoto Hisashi , Sugahara Masayuki , Fölsch Heike , Koide Yasuhiro , Nakatsu Fubito , Tanaka Naotaka , Nishimura Toshiro , Furukawa Mitsuru , Mullins Chris , Nakamura Nobuhiro , Mellman Ira , Ohno Hiroshi
Published: July 2002

To investigate the importance of tyrosine recognition by the AP-1B clathrin adaptor subunit μ1B for basolateral sorting of integral membrane proteins in polarized epithelial cells, we have produced and characterized a mutant form of μ1B. The mutant (M-μ1B) contains alanine substitutions of each of the four conserved residues, which in the AP-2 adaptor subunit μ2 are critical for interacting with tyrosine-based endocytosis signals. We show M-μ1B is defective for tyrosine binding in vitro, but is nevertheless incorporated into AP-1 complexes in transfected cells. Using LLC-PK1 cells expressing either wild type or M-μ1B, we find that there is inefficient basolateral expression of membrane proteins whose basolateral targeting signals share critical tyrosines with signals for endocytosis. In contrast, membrane proteins whose basolateral targeting signals are distinct from their endocytosis signals (transferrin and low-density lipoprotein receptors) accumulate at the basolateral domain normally, although in a manner that is strictly dependent on μ1B or M-μ1B expression. Our results suggest that μ1B interacts with different classes of basolateral targeting signals in distinct ways.
Ligand-induced changes in the binding sites of proteins
Authors: Fradera Xavier , de la Cruz Xavier , Silva Carlos H. T. P. , Gelpí Jose Luis , Luque F.J. , Orozco Modesto
Published: July 2002

Classical molecular interaction potentials, in conjunction with other theoretical techniques, are used to analyze the dependence of the binding sites of representative proteins on the bound ligand. It is found that the ligand bound introduces in general small structural perturbations at the binding site of the protein. However, such small structural changes can lead to important alterations in the recognition pattern of the protein. The impact of these findings in docking procedures is discussed.

Contact: modesto@luz.bq.ub.es; javier@far1.far.ub.es

* To whom correspondence should be addressed.
Deriving quantitative conclusions from microarray expression data
Authors: Olshen Adam B. , Jain Ajay N.
Published: July 2002

Motivation: The last few years have seen the development of DNA microarray technology that allows simultaneous measurement of the expression levels of thousands of genes. While many methods have been developed to analyze such data, most have been visualization-based. Methods that yield quantitative conclusions have been diverse and complex.

Results: We present two straightforward methods for identifying specific genes whose expression is linked with a phenotype or outcome variable as well as for systematically predicting sample class membership: (1) a conservative, permutation-based approach to identifying differentially expressed genes; (2) an augmentation of K-nearest-neighbor pattern classification. Our analyses replicate the quantitative conclusions of Golub et al. (1999; Science, 286, 531–537) on leukemia data, with better classification results, using far simpler methods. With the breast tumor data of Perou et al. (2000; Nature, 406, 747–752), the methods lend rigorous quantitative support to the conclusions of the original paper. In the case of the lymphoma data in Alizadeh et al. (2000; Nature, 403, 503–511), our analyses only partially support the conclusions of the original authors.

Availability: The software and supplementary information are available freely to researchers at academic and non-profit institutions at http://cc.ucsf.edu/jain/public

Contact: ajain@cc.ucsf.edu

* To whom correspondence should be addressed.
EUROPEAN MARKET INTEGRATION AND THE SMALL NATION
Authors: Stokes Charles J.
Published: July 2002

Predictions of Portuguese export market performance consequent on European market integration tended to come up short. To explain why, the author presents and analyzes the technical literature. The author compares the forecasts with actual results and then develops a simple model to extrapolate and replicate the prE‐1992 Portuguese experiences. This model builds on relatively rapid growth already under way. The author holds that relative export industry market share as a function of relative sales effort explained export performance. Further, the author argues that four country industry concentration ratios as a function of changes in revealed comparative advantage as well as “home market” institutions explain the competitive situations faced by Portuguese exports both before and after 1992. The concatenation of these four variables yields successive equilibria.
YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT OUTFLOW RATES AND LABOR MARKET PROGRAMS: AUSTRALIAN EVIDENCE
Authors: Leeves Gareth
Published: July 2002

A matching function methodology is used to investigate the macroeconomic effects of labor market program (LMP) commencements on youth unemployment outflows in Australia using unpublished data that classify commencements and outflows by duration of unemployment. The results indicate that LMPs have had significant effects on outflows from short‐term unemployment. There is a net positive effect from LMP commencements on short‐term unemployed female outflow rates. However, females experienced negative spillover effects from male LMP commencements. These spillover effects appear to be associated with wage subsidy programs and suggest the net impact of such programs may have been overstated in previous studies.
A γ‐secretase inhibitor blocks Notch signaling in vivo and causes a severe neurogenic phenotype in zebrafish
Authors: Geling Andrea , Steiner Harald , Willem Michael , Bally‐Cuif Laure , Haass Christian
Published: July 2002

Inhibition of amyloid β‐peptide (Aβ) production by blocking γ‐secretase activity is at present one of the most promising therapeutic strategies to slow progression of Alzheimer's disease pathology. γ‐secretase inhibitors apparently block Aβ generation via interference with presenilin (PS) function. Besides being an essential component of the γ‐secretase complex, PS itself may be an aspartyl protease with γ‐secretase activity, which is not only required for Aβ production but also for a similar proteolytic process involved in Notch signaling. Here we demonstrate that treatment of zebrafish embryos with a known γ‐secretase inhibitor affects embryonic development in a manner indistinguishable from Notch signaling deficiencies at morphological, molecular and biochemical levels. This indicates severe side‐effects of γ‐secretase inhibitors in any Notch‐dependent cell fate decision and demonstrates that the zebrafish is an ideal vertebrate system to validate compounds that selectively affect Aβ production, but not Notch signaling, under in vivo conditions.
Inferring Transition Probabilities from Repeated Cross Sections
Authors: Pelzer Ben , Eisinga Rob , Franses Philip Hans
Published: July 2002

This paper discusses a nonstationary, heterogeneous Markov model designed to estimate entry and exit transition probabilities at the micro level from a time series of independent cross-sectional samples with a binary outcome variable. The model has its origins in the work of Moffitt and shares features with standard statistical methods for ecological inference. We outline the methodological framework proposed by Moffitt and present several extensions of the model to increase its potential application in a wider array of research contexts. We also discuss the relationship with previous lines of related research in political science. The example illustration uses survey data on American presidential vote intentions from a five-wave panel study conducted by Patterson in 1976. We treat the panel data as independent cross sections and compare the estimates of the Markov model with both dynamic panel parameter estimates and the actual observations in the panel. The results suggest that the proposed model provides a useful framework for the analysis of transitions in repeated cross sections. Open problems requiring further study are discussed.
Coping with the cold: the cold shock response in the Gram-positive soil bacterium
Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Weber Michael H. W. , Marahiel Mohamed A.
Published: July 2002

All organisms examined to date, respond to a sudden change in environmental temperature with a specific cascade of adaptation reactions that, in some cases, have been identified and monitored at the molecular level. According to the type of temperature change, this response has been termed heat shock response (HSR) or cold shock response (CSR). During the HSR, a specialized sigma factor has been shown to play a central regulatory role in controlling expression of genes predominantly required to cope with heat-induced alteration of protein conformation. In contrast, after cold shock, nucleic acid structure and proteins interacting with the biological information molecules DNA and RNA appear to play a major cellular role. Currently, no cold–specific sigma factor has been identified. Therefore, unlike the HSR, the CSR appears to be organized as a complex stimulon rather than resembling a regulon. This review has been designed to draw a refined picture of our current understanding of the CSR in
Bacillus subtilis
. Important processes such as temperature sensing, membrane adaptation, modification of the translation apparatus, as well as nucleoid reorganization and some metabolic aspects, are discussed in brief. Special emphasis is placed on recent findings concerning the nucleic acid binding cold shock proteins, which play a fundamental role, not only during cold shock adaptation but also under optimal growth conditions.
Actin–binding proteins in theArabidopsisgenome database: properties of functionally distinct plant actin–depolymerizing factors/cofilins
Authors: Hussey Patrick J. , Allwood Ellen G. , Smertenko Andrei P.
Published: July 2002

The plant actin cytoskeleton is a highly dynamic, fibrous structure essential in many cellular processes including cell division and cytoplasmic streaming. This structure is stimulus responsive, being affected by internal stimuli, by biotic and abiotic stresses mediated in signal transduction pathways by actin–binding proteins. The completion of theArabidopsisgenome sequence has allowed a comparative identification of many actin–binding proteins. However, not all are conserved in plants, which possibly reflects the differences in the processes involved in morphogenesis between plant and other cells. Here we have searched for theArabidopsisequivalents of 67 animal/fungal actin–binding proteins and show that 36 are not conserved in plants. One protein that is conserved across phylogeny is actin–depolymerizing factor or cofilin and we describe our work on the activity of vegetative tissue and pollen–specific isoforms of this protein in plant cells, concluding that they are functionally distinct.
Molecular genetic analysis of left–right handedness in plants
Authors: Hashimoto Takashi
Published: July 2002

Handedness in plant growth may be most familiar to us when we think of tendrils or twining plants, which generally form consistent right– or left–handed helices as they climb. The petals of several species are sometimes arranged like fan blades that twist in the same direction. Another less conspicuous example is ‘circumnutation’, the oscillating growth of axial organs, which alternates between a clockwise and an anti–clockwise direction. To unravel molecular components and cellular determinants of handedness, we screenedArabidopsis thalianaseedlings for helical growth mutants with fixed handedness. Recessivespiral1andspiral2mutants show right–handed helical growth in roots, hypocotyls, petioles and petals; semi–dominantlefty1andlefty2mutants show opposite left–handed growth in these organs.leftymutations are epistatic tospiralmutations.Arabidopsishelical growth mutants with fixed handedness may be impaired in certain aspects of cortical microtubule functions, and characterization of the mutated genes should lead us to a better understanding of how microtubules function in left–right handedness in plants.
TFIID and human mediator coactivator complexes assemble cooperatively on promoter DNA
Authors: Johnson Kristina M. , Wang Jin , Smallwood Andrea , Arayata Charina , Carey Michael
Published: July 2002

Activator-mediated transcription complex assembly on templates lacking chromatin requires the interaction of activators with two major coactivator complexes: TFIID and mediator. Here we employed immobilized template assays to correlate transcriptional activation with mediator and TFIID recruitment. In reactions reconstituted with purified proteins, we found that activator, TFIID, and mediator engage in reciprocal cooperative interactions to form a complex on promoter DNA. Preassembly of the coactivator complex accelerates the rate of transcription in a cell-free system depleted of TFIID and mediator. Our data argue that this coactivator complex is an intermediate in the assembly of an active transcription complex. Furthermore, the reciprocity of the interactions demonstrates that the complex could in principle be nucleated with either TFIID or mediator, implying that alternative pathways could be utilized to generate diversity in the way activators function in vivo.
Cyclin D–cdk4 activity modulates the subnuclear localization and interaction of MEF2 with SRC-family coactivators during skeletal muscle differentiation
Authors: Lazaro Jean-Bernard , Bailey Peter J. , Lassar Andrew B.
Published: July 2002

Prior work has indicated that D-type cyclin–cdk4 complexes, which are only active in proliferating cells, can suppress the skeletal muscle differentiation program in proliferating myoblasts. In this study, we show that cyclin D–cdk activity can block the activity of the MEF2 family of transcriptional regulators, which are crucial regulators of skeletal muscle gene expression. We have found that cyclin D–cdk activity blocks the association of MEF2C with the coactivator protein GRIP-1 and thereby inhibits the activity of MEF2. During skeletal muscle differentiation, GRIP-1 is localized to punctate nuclear structures and can apparently tether MEF2 to such structures. Cotransfection of GRIP-1 can both potentiate the transcriptional activity of a Gal4–MEF2C construct and induce MEF2C localization to punctate nuclear structures. Consistent with the absence of punctate nuclear GRIP-1 in proliferating myoblasts, we have found that ectopic cyclin D–cdk4 expression disrupts the localization of both GRIP-1 and MEF2C to these punctate subnuclear structures. Our findings indicate that cyclin D–cdk4 activity represses skeletal muscle differentiation in proliferating cells by blocking the association of MEF2 with the coactivator GRIP-1 and concomitantly disrupts the association of these factors with punctate nuclear subdomains within the cell.
Genetic Control of Male Germ Unit Organization in Arabidopsis
Authors: Lalanne Eric , Twell David
Published: July 2002

In flowering plants, the vegetative nucleus and the two sperm cells are proposed to form a functional assemblage, the male germ unit (MGU). Here, we describe the developmental pathway of MGU assembly in Arabidopsis and report two classes of mutations that affect the integrity and/or the positioning of the MGU in the mature pollen grain. In germ unit malformed (gum) mutants, the vegetative nucleus is positioned adjacent to the pollen grain wall, separate from the two sperm cells, whereas in MGU displaced (mud) mutants, the intact MGU is displaced to the pollen grain wall.mud and gum mutants correspond to male-specific gametophytic mutations that also reduce pollen fitness. Genetic mapping showed that the gum1 andgum2 mutations are genetically linked, possibly allelic, whereas the mud1 and mud2 mutations correspond to two unlinked loci mapping on different chromosomes. The hierarchical relationship between mud andgum mutations was investigated by phenotypic analysis of double mutants. gum1 appeared to act earlier thanmud1 and mud2, affecting initial MGU assembly and its stability during pollen maturation. In contrast,mud1 and mud2 mutations appear to act only on MGU positioning during final maturation. From in planta analyses of pollen germination in mud andgum mutants, we conclude that the initial proximity and positioning of MGU components is not required for their entrance into the pollen tube, but the efficiency of MGU translocation is reduced.
Calcium Signaling through Protein Kinases. The Arabidopsis Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinase Gene Family
Authors: Cheng Shu-Hua , Willmann Matthew R. , Chen Huei-Chi , Sheen Jen
Published: July 2002

In plants, numerous Ca2+-stimulated protein kinase activities occur through calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs). These novel calcium sensors are likely to be crucial mediators of responses to diverse endogenous and environmental cues. However, the precise biological function(s) of most CDPKs remains elusive. The Arabidopsis genome is predicted to encode 34 different CDPKs. In this Update, we analyze the Arabidopsis CDPK gene family and review the expression, regulation, and possible functions of plant CDPKs. By combining emerging cellular and genomic technologies with genetic and biochemical approaches, the characterization of Arabidopsis CDPKs provides a valuable opportunity to understand the plant calcium-signaling network.
Ethanol Vapor Is an Efficient Inducer of the alc Gene Expression System in Model and Crop Plant Species
Authors: Sweetman Justin P. , Chu Chengcai , Qu Nan , Greenland Andrew J. , Sonnewald Uwe , Jepson Ian
Published: July 2002

We have demonstrated that low concentrations of ethanol vapor efficiently induce the alc gene expression system in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum cv Samsun NN), potato (Solanum tuberosum cv Solara), and oilseed rape (Brassica napus cv Westar). For many situations, this may be the preferred method of induction because it avoids direct application of comparatively high concentrations of an ethanol solution. Although induction was seen with less than 0.4 μm ethanol vapor, maximal induction of the chloramphenicol acetyl transferase gene was achieved after 48 h in leaves of tobacco plants enclosed with 4.5 μm ethanol vapor. In the absence of ethanol, there is no detectable gene expression. Treatment of potato tubers with ethanol vapor results in uniform β-glucoronidase (GUS) expression. Vapor treatment of a single oilseed rape leaf resulted in induction of GUS in the treated leaf only and 14C-ethanol labeling in tobacco confirmed that the inducer was not translocated. In contrast, enclosure of the roots, aerial parts, or whole plant with ethanol vapor resulted in induction of GUS activity in leaves and roots. The data reported here broaden the utility of the alc system for research and crop biotechnology.
Effect of Yeast CTA1 Gene Expression on Response of Tobacco Plants to Tobacco Mosaic Virus Infection
Authors: Talarczyk Andrzej , Krzymowska Magdalena , Borucki Wojciech , Hennig Jacek
Published: July 2002

The response of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L. cv Xanthi-nc) plants with elevated catalase activity was studied after infection by tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). These plants contain the yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) peroxisomal catalase geneCTA1 under the control of the cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter. The transgenic lines exhibited 2- to 4-fold higher total in vitro catalase activity than untransformed control plants under normal growth conditions. Cellular localization of the CTA1 protein was established using immunocytochemical analysis. Gold particles were detected mainly inside peroxisomes, whereas no significant labeling was detected in other cellular compartments or in the intercellular space. The physiological state of the transgenic plants was evaluated in respect to growth rate, general appearance, carbohydrate content, and dry weight. No significant differences were recorded in comparison with non-transgenic tobacco plants. The 3,3′-diaminobenzidine-stain method was applied to visualize hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in the TMV infected tissue. Presence of H2O2 could be detected around necrotic lesions caused by TMV infection in non-transgenic plants but to a much lesser extent in the CTA1 transgenic plants. In addition, the size of necrotic lesions was significantly bigger in the infected leaves of the transgenic plants. Changes in the distribution of H2O2 and in lesion formation were not reflected by changes in salicylic acid production. In contrast to the local response, the systemic response in upper noninoculated leaves of both CTA1 transgenic and control plants was similar. This suggests that increased cellular catalase activity influences local but not systemic response to TMV infection.
Plant Nuclei Can Contain Extensive Grooves and Invaginations [W]
Authors: Collings David A. , Carter Crystal N. , Rink Jochen C. , Scott Amie C. , Wyatt Sarah E. , Allen Nina Strömgren
Published: July 2002

Plant cells can exhibit highly complex nuclear organization. Through dye-labeling experiments in untransformed onion epidermal and tobacco culture cells and through the expression of green fluorescent protein targeted to either the nucleus or the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum/nuclear envelope in these cells, we have visualized deep grooves and invaginations into the large nuclei of these cells. In onion, these structures, which are similar to invaginations seen in some animal cells, form tubular or planelike infoldings of the nuclear envelope. Both grooves and invaginations are stable structures, and both have cytoplasmic cores containing actin bundles that can support cytoplasmic streaming. In dividing tobacco cells, invaginations seem to form during cell division, possibly from strands of the endoplasmic reticulum trapped in the reforming nucleus. The substantial increase in nuclear surface area resulting from these grooves and invaginations, their apparent preference for association with nucleoli, and the presence in them of actin bundles that support vesicle motility suggest that the structures might function both in mRNA export from the nucleus and in protein import from the cytoplasm to the nucleus.
Going for the burn dreaming of the short walk
Authors: Hunt Robin
Published: July 2002

A personal view of the ex‐editor of Guardian Unlimited and acknowledged new media expert on the problems of managing and juggling the digital information flow in the workplace. Considers the sheer speed at which we are expected to work in cyberspace. The benefits and problems associated with e‐mail in the workplace are discussed. The way we relate to e‐mail and how we allow it to dominate our lives are the key matters of concern.
The role of phosphonates as transporters of Zn2+ ions in the inhibition of carbon steel in neutral solutions containing chlorides
Authors: Rajendran S. , Apparao B.V. , Palaniswamy N. , Amalraj A.J. , Sundaravadivelu M.
Published: July 2002

Phosphonates have shown synergistic effects in combination with Zn2+ ions in controlling the corrosion of carbon steel immersed in neutral aqueous environments containing 60‐ppm Cl‐. The role of phosphonates in the presence of Zn2+ ions has been investigated by polarisation tests and weight loss results. It was observed that the phosphonates functioned as transporters of Zn2+ ions from the bulk of the solution towards the metal surface. The phosphonate‐Zn2+ bond is sufficiently strong to carry Zn2+ ions from the bulk solution towards the metal surface, but is weak enough for them to break to form a phosphonate‐Fe2+ bond at anodic sites on the metal surface. Inhibition efficiency increases when the phosphonate‐Zn2+ complex remains in solution in soluble form. Inhibition efficiency decreased when the phosphonate‐Zn2+ complex was precipitated in the bulk of the solution.
Social Situation and Emotional State in Eating and Drinking
Authors: French Jennifer A. , Blair Alan J. , Booth David A.
Published: July 2002

Socio‐affective state can affect appetite, and choice of food or drink
can affect mood and social perception. Effects of dietary constituents
on the brain often play some role in these food‐mood linkages but they
are forged into strong and particular shape by personal involvement in
cultural practices surrounding consumption of particular items. Briefly
discusses psychological research into the following examples: alcoholic
drinks, tea and coffee, nutritive tonics and dieters′ “danger foods”.
Tradition and Progress:
Authors: Thienes Marjorie
Published: July 2002

Examines provisions of the 1992 Regulation on the registration of
geographical indications and designations of origin for agricultural
products and foodstuffs. Also examines protection of such names under
the United Kingdom Trade Marks Act and the law of passing off.
Product Development and the QMS
Authors: McIlveen Heather
Published: July 2002

Quality is increasingly being viewed as the hallmark of any successful
company. This philosophy has led to the evolution of the quality
management system (QMS), and the increasing use of independent
accreditation schemes such as BS 5750 represents the growing realization
that continual and recognized improvements in quality may be necessary
to achieve and sustain good economic performance, legal requirements and
a commercial advantage. Considers the impact of a quality‐oriented
approach within the food industry and, in particular, its potential
value in managing an effective product development function within that
system. Discusses various issues concerning the feasibility of
implementing such an approach, including the continuing benefits
provided by Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCPs) and Hazard
Analysis and Risk Assessment (HARA) processes.
Biotechnology and Food Production
Authors: Frewer L.J. , Shepherd R. , Sparks P.
Published: July 2002

Sixty quota‐sampled consumers were interviewed regarding their knowledge
about biotechnology, their perceptions of risks and benefits resulting
from the application of the technology, and related ethical concerns
arising from the technology. Comparisons were made between food‐related
and other applications. The effect of information on responses to
focused questions about biotechnology was examined. Analysis of
interview data indicated that knowledge of the new biotechnology was
very low, particularly with respect to food and agricultural
applications. Both risks and benefits were seen as applying more to
other people and society than the self. The provision of information
about biotechnology appeared to increase perceptions of potential
benefits, but not reduce perceptions of risk. It was concluded that
public knowledge of the new biotechnology remains uncrystallized
(particularly with respect to food and agricultural applications) and
opinions are likely to be formed via whatever public information becomes
available.
How Indicators Can Perform for Hazard and Risk Management in Risk
Assessments of Food Premises
Authors: Phillips Brinton , Rutherford Neil , Gorsuch Tom , Mabey Mark , Looker Nick , Boggiano Ray
Published: July 2002

Discusses research recently carried out by Delyn BC and the Audit
Commission in its search for performance indicators for the
environmental health food safety function, and how this can facilitate
improved analysis of “Hazard” and “Risk Management” performance in food
premises. Analysis has been made of risk assessment scores from 8,000
food premises inspections carried out by Environmental Health Officers
from varying LAs, which have been transferred into a computerized
database, located at Delyn BC. Interpretation and observation of the
results and illustrations has revealed some fascinating similarities
between the LA data presented. Implementation of these proposals could
provide more uniform risk analysis and enhanced enforcement standards in
food premises, leading to improved food safety by enabling the more
accurate focusing of resources and efforts to where they are most needed
and effective.
Implications of changes in GATT for the marketing strategies of
British beef producers
Authors: Gibbs Juliette , Shaw Susan A.
Published: July 2002

Examines the likely effect of the changes in GATT on the British
beef industry and the implications of these changes for the marketing
strategies of British beef producers. The result of GATT changes is that
there is unlikely to be any incentive for producers to increase
production. Instead, marketing strategies will have to centre on
increasing profitability by increasing quality and quality awareness
with the objective of increasing margins. Examines the production and
marketing of quality beef in the UK and proposes a number of strategies
for the future.
Nutrition education for schoolchildren – the Nutri‐Programme
approach
Authors: Seaman Claire , Kirk Terry
Published: July 2002

Describes a healthy eating campaign for schoolchildren, designed
and implemented by a member of the food industry, and evaluated by an
academic department. Promotes the importance of starch and discourages
the intake of fat. Indicates that satisfactory results were obtained on
both counts and that the children′s nutrition knowledge increased
sharply. Also shows the experiment to have justified the collaboration
between the food industry and independent dietitians.
The impact of structural factors on the performance of the
Australian food‐processing industry
Authors: Ratnatunga Janek
Published: July 2002

Reports the findings of a study conducted to explain the recent
poor performances of the Australian food‐processing industry, by
historically analysing the structural determinants and intensity of
competition that prevailed in the early 1980s. Covers the period 1979 to
1985 in depth using a research design that incorporates information from
both published sources and empirical interviews of senior marketing
executives. Using the Porter framework, an accepted approach to the
structural analysis of industries, demonstrates that the food industry
was one of the most competitive industries in the world in the early
1980s. Attempts to analyse the resultant implications of such
competitive pressures on industry performance in the 1990s.
The potential of inulin as a functional ingredient
Authors: Robinson Richard K.
Published: July 2002

Suggests that though inulin is an oligosaccharide of dietary
interest as a bifidogenic factor, little consideration appears to have
been given to its behaviour in foods. Establishes that inulin would be
entirely suitable for incorporation into natural or stirred fruit
yogurt, in that it enhances the organoleptic properties of the
product(s), and at inclusion levels which could be valuable from a
nutritional standpoint.
Snacking: implications in body composition and energy balance
Authors: Drummond Sandra , Kirk Terry , de Looy Anne
Published: July 2002

Snacking is commonly regarded by the general public as unhealthy,
believing that it is more beneficial to stick to an eating pattern of
three meals a day. Similarly anyone on a weight reduction programme will
avoid snacks, reducing the frequency of eating occasions to two to three
times a day. However there is evidence to suggest that snacking is not
the evil once thought and individuals that snack throughout the day have
positive advantages over individuals who conform to a rigid pattern of
three meals a day. Increasingly western populations appear to be moving
away from the “gorging” to the “nibbling”
pattern of eating, probably as a direct result of the increased
availability of fast foods and snacks. Reviews the literature in the
area of snacking and frequency of eating with respect to energy and
nutrient intakes, body weight, body composition and energy balance and
indicates the direction for further research.
The new Europe: an overview
Authors: Morton Catherine
Published: July 2002

The forces shaping the “new Europe” are many and
varied. The changes will test food manufacturers to the limits. If
appropriate strategies are to be developed, a clear understanding is
needed of the forces driving change and their likely effects. Outlines
the forces driving change, including: the prospect of further EU
enlargement; the liberalization of trade in central and eastern Europe;
the GATT and CAP agreements. Suggests ways in which manufacturers need
to adjust to the changes and the issues they need to be aware of.
Dublin consumers and pork: attitudes to quality
Authors: O′Mahony Robert , Cowan Cathal , Keane Michael
Published: July 2002

There has been an increase in the consumption of pork in recent
years. Reports on a survey of the attitudes of Dublin consumers to pork.
Identifies the quality factors which consumers consider when purchasing
and eating pork, in particular pork chops. Determines the relative
importance of these factors and ascertains consumer attitudes to the
quality of pork available. Examines the responses of different market
segments. Finds that most consumers are happy with the quality of
available pork, and leanness is by far the most important quality factor
for consumers when buying pork chops. Marbling should not be visible.
Identifies tenderness and flavour as the most important attributes of
the eating quality of pork chops. Juiciness was the third most important
eating quality factor and many consumers perceived pork to be dry.
Suggests that the production of leaner meat must observe any effects
that proposed changes in procedure may have on these eating quality
attributes. Concludes that payment systems should reflect the consumer
demand for leanness, and ways of payment that reflect consumer needs in
tenderness and flavour also need to be developed. Finds that, in
relation to market segments, males and the ABC1 socio‐economic group
were more likely to be satisfied with the tenderness of pork chops than
females or consumers from other socio‐economic groups.
Using conjoint analysis to establish consumer preferences for fruit and vegetables
Authors: van der Pol Marjon , Ryan Mandy
Published: July 2002

Considers the technique of conjoint analysis as a method for acquiring insights into the preferences for food products. Applies the technique to establish the trade‐offs that consumers make between price, quality, convenience to prepare and location of purchase in the purchasing of fruit and vegetables. Also uses the technique to estimate indirectly willingness to pay for the included attributes according to income group. Quality was found to be the most important attribute. Reveals, through segmentation of the price attribute by income, that those on higher incomes had a higher marginal valuation of price. Also suggests that respondents understood the questionnaire, and answered it in a meaningful and consistent way. Suggests that the technique could successfully be used to establish consumer preferences for alternative food products that are commercially feasible.
Budget‐constrained high‐quality procurement strategies subject to risk
Authors: Boronico Jess S.
Published: July 2002

Addresses important logistical considerations in the distribution of a seasonal food product. While most organizations recognize that quality affects both demand and cost, the degree of uncertainty in the distribution channel itself, which impacts quality through management’s efforts to procure adequate stock of product during peak demand, must also be considered. Develops a stochastic dynamic programming formulation from which budget‐constrained order quantities may be determined. Shows that the distribution and timing of orders impacts on quality, which is measured by the shortage probability over the multiple period planning horizon. Provides a numerical example from which optimal solutions are obtained. Provides a basic framework from which decision support tools may be developed to assist in procuring a product in a distribution channel where receipt quantities are probabilistic.
Addition of nutrients: current practice in the UK
Authors: Brady Maeve C.
Published: July 2002

Notes that the main criteria for selecting nutrients to be added to foods are that they are shown to be safe, effective and beneficial, or that for certain at‐risk population groups there is a demonstrable need. Also that addition of nutrients requires careful attention to food regulations, labelling, nutritional rationale, cost, acceptability of the product to consumers and assessment of technical and analytical limitations for compliance with label declarations. Points out that there are several examples where the nutritional enrichment of foods (restoration and fortification) has helped prevent or reduce the level of nutritional inadequacies within a population. Concludes that foods with added nutrients provide an ideal vehicle for improving the nutritional status of populations, particularly in the light of changing lifestyles and dietary patterns.
The beef crisis: free trade issues in European law
Authors: Upson Joan
Published: July 2002

Aims to identify the extent to which the reactions of the European Commission and Member States may justifiably sit alongside the aims of the single market and the wider objectives of the EC. Examines the reactions of Member States and the EC in effecting a ban on the movement of British beef and allied products within the context of the principles of free movement of goods and powers in relation to the Common Agricultural Policy. Confirms that, while first impressions may suggest the response of the Commission and Member States goes to the foundations of the single market, the protection is not absolute. The beef crisis provides the opportunity to examine the freedoms which form the foundation of the single market and, in particular, to identify the sensible limitations of those freedoms in the light of wider Community objectives.
Use of the service meat counter: an exploration
Authors: Smith Peter W. , Burns David J.
Published: July 2002

From the perspective of an image‐generating department to the perspective of profitability, the meat department possesses unsurpassed importance within the US grocery store. Surprisingly, the meat department is the subject of relatively little published research. Examines one aspect of the meat department ‐ customer use of the service meat counter vis‐à‐vis the self‐service meat counter. Results indicate that customers’ use of the service meat counter appears not to be a simplistic phenomenon. When used, the service meat counter appears to be viewed as a complement to the self‐service meat counter, not a replacement. The demographic factors examined did not appear to have the potential to serve as successful segmentation factors as far as use of the service meat counter is concerned.
Pan‐European branding: CPC International and Knorr
Authors: McDermott Michael C.
Published: July 2002

European food manufacturers are switching to pan‐European marketing and rationalizing manufacturing operations to achieve economies of scale as margins are squeezed by retailers and brand loyalty wanes. The US multinational CPC International appears to epitomize this trend. However, its focus on manufacturing efficiencies cannot compensate for long‐standing marketing inefficiencies. It needs to recognize that although it has a pan‐European approach to the Knorr brand name, it cannot expect this brand to achieve sales levels in the UK comparable with those gained on the Continent.
Strategic planning and agribusiness: an exploratory study of the adoption of strategic planning techniques by co‐operatives
Authors: Miles Morgan P. , White John B. , Munilla Linda S.
Published: July 2002

Explores the adoption of strategic planning techniques by agribusiness, specifically agricultural co‐operatives. Offers implications for policy. A survey was sent to 345 co‐operatives listed in the US Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Cooperative Service’s Directory of Farmer Cooperatives. Co‐operatives have widely adopted many of the sophisticated strategic planning techniques such as environmental analysis, core competences and SWOT analysis.
The way to healthy eating for children
Authors: Horne Pauline J. , Fergus Lowe C. , Bowdery Michael , Egerton Christine
Published: July 2002

There is widespread concern that children consume too few fruit and vegetables and as a result are likely to incur health problems. This paper outlines a series of studies in which an intervention that combines video‐based peer modelling with rewards has been shown to be very effective in enabling children to eat a variety of fruit and vegetables that previously they rejected. These effects have been very substantial and long lasting. The procedure has been used successfully in children’s own homes and, as this paper shows in particular detail, in school settings.
A single consumer or different types of consumer: an analysis of social types according to their consumer habits
Authors: Diaz de Rada Vidal
Published: July 2002

Based on the responses to a questionnaire about consumer behaviour carried out in Navarra. The aim of the present study is to classify the consumers in Navarra into homogeneous groups for the purpose of discovering the emergence of a “new consumer”, characterized by certain “impulsive” behaviour such as buying items that are not needed, purchasing products which will not be used, etc.
Effective training – it’s the thought that counts
Authors: Meller Rachel , Mann Roger
Published: July 2002

How do you ensure that representatives can confidently sell a complex product to a sophisticated audience? This was the problem faced by a European pharmaceutical company whose salesforce and managers needed to understand the features and benefits of its novel “high tech” molecule – and be able to convey these to hospital consultants. The challenge was to make the training accurate and clear, yet lively and motivating. It had to engage representatives as well as product and marketing managers across Europe. This case‐study article describes how the challenge was met.
The dynamic leader – leadership development beyond the visionary leader
Authors: Manning Tony , Robertson Bob
Published: July 2002

Describes the background behind the development of a new leadership self‐assessment instrument, the dynamic leader inventory and how the authors were able to confirm much current thinking on “visionary” leadership. They found leadership situations were enormously variable – what was appropriate behaviour in terms of visionary leadership varied from one situation to another, particularly with respect to the leader’s influence over others and influence over change. This led to the development of a new model of leadership, the “dynamic” leader which builds on, but goes beyond, the “visionary” model. This development is explained and a framework is outlined, identifying four types of leadership situations. Findings have clear implications for thinking about leadership and for the practice of leadership development.
Recent changes in information science education in Chinese universities
Authors: Chu Jingli
Published: July 2002

As a result of the new reform of the college curriculum in China in 1998, the previously separated five information‐related majors were merged into a new special “information management and systems” curriculum. This change brings about both new challenges and new threats to the old information science specialism. However, it is inevitable for the specialism to change itself.