bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tight‐binding molecular dynamics simulation of SiH bond dissociation in silicon clusters
Authors: Khakimov Z. M. , Umarova F. T. , Sulaymonov N. T. , Kiv A. E. , Levin A. A.
Published: April 2003

New model of SiH bond dissociation is proposed and tested in the cluster Si10H16 by the simulation approach that combines classic molecular dynamics method and the self‐consistent tight‐binding electronic and total energy calculation one. It is shown that the monohydride SiH bond is unstable with respect to silicon dangling bond and bend‐bridge SiHSi bond formation when this cluster traps the single positive charge and that hydrogen migrates through a path involving rather rotation around the SiSi bond than the center of this bond (the bond‐centered position). These results can be useful for understanding hydrogen‐related phenomena at surfaces, interfaces, and internal voids of various hydrogenated silicon systems: electronic devices, silicon solar cells, and nanocrystalline and porous silicon. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem 93: 351–359, 2003
CSC-1
Authors: Romano Alper , Guse Annika , Krascenicova Ivica , Schnabel Heinke , Schnabel Ralf , Glotzer Michael
Published: April 2003

The Aurora B kinase complex is a critical regulator of chromosome segregation and cytokinesis. In Caenorhabditis elegans, AIR-2 (Aurora B) function requires ICP-1 (Incenp) and BIR-1 (Survivin). In various systems, Aurora B binds to orthologues of these proteins. Through genetic analysis, we have identified a new subunit of the Aurora B kinase complex, CSC-1. C. elegans embryos depleted of CSC-1, AIR-2, ICP-1, or BIR-1 have identical phenotypes. CSC-1, BIR-1, and ICP-1 are interdependent for their localization, and all are required for AIR-2 localization. In vitro, CSC-1 binds directly to BIR-1. The CSC-1/BIR-1 complex, but not the individual subunits, associates with ICP-1. CSC-1 associates with ICP-1, BIR-1, and AIR-2 in vivo. ICP-1 dramatically stimulates AIR-2 kinase activity. This activity is not stimulated by CSC-1/BIR-1, suggesting that these two subunits function as targeting subunits for AIR-2 kinase.
Aurora B couples chromosome alignment with anaphase by targeting BubR1, Mad2, and Cenp-E to kinetochores
Authors: Ditchfield Claire , Johnson Victoria L. , Tighe Anthony , Ellston Rebecca , Haworth Carolyn , Johnson Trevor , Mortlock Andrew , Keen Nicholas , Taylor Stephen S.
Published: April 2003

The Aurora/Ipl1 family of protein kinases plays multiple roles in mitosis and cytokinesis. Here, we describe ZM447439, a novel selective Aurora kinase inhibitor. Cells treated with ZM447439 progress through interphase, enter mitosis normally, and assemble bipolar spindles. However, chromosome alignment, segregation, and cytokinesis all fail. Despite the presence of maloriented chromosomes, ZM447439-treated cells exit mitosis with normal kinetics, indicating that the spindle checkpoint is compromised. Indeed, ZM447439 prevents mitotic arrest after exposure to paclitaxel. RNA interference experiments suggest that these phenotypes are due to inhibition of Aurora B, not Aurora A or some other kinase. In the absence of Aurora B function, kinetochore localization of the spindle checkpoint components BubR1, Mad2, and Cenp-E is diminished. Furthermore, inhibition of Aurora B kinase activity prevents the rebinding of BubR1 to metaphase kinetochores after a reduction in centromeric tension. Aurora B kinase activity is also required for phosphorylation of BubR1 on entry into mitosis. Finally, we show that BubR1 is not only required for spindle checkpoint function, but is also required for chromosome alignment. Together, these results suggest that by targeting checkpoint proteins to kinetochores, Aurora B couples chromosome alignment with anaphase onset.
Control of axon elongation via an SDF-1α/Rho/mDia pathway in cultured cerebellar granule neurons
Authors: Arakawa Yoshiki , Bito Haruhiko , Furuyashiki Tomoyuki , Tsuji Takahiro , Takemoto-Kimura Sayaka , Kimura Kazuhiro , Nozaki Kazuhiko , Hashimoto Nobuo , Narumiya Shuh
Published: April 2003

Rho–GTPase has been implicated in axon outgrowth. However, not all of the critical steps controlled by Rho have been well characterized. Using cultured cerebellar granule neurons, we show here that stromal cell–derived factor (SDF)-1α, a neural chemokine, is a physiological ligand that can turn on two distinct Rho-dependent pathways with opposite consequences. A low concentration of the ligand stimulated a Rho-dependent pathway that mediated facilitation of axon elongation. In contrast, Rho/ROCK activation achieved by a higher concentration of SDF-1α caused repression of axon formation and induced no more increase in axon length. However, even at this higher concentration a Rho-dependent axon elongating activity could be recovered upon removal of ROCK activity using Y-27632. SDF-1α–induced axon elongating activity under ROCK inhibition was replicated by the dominant-active form of the mammalian homologue of the Drosophila gene Diaphanous (mDia)1 and counteracted by its dominant-negative form. Furthermore, RNAi knockdown of mDia1 abolished SDF-1α–induced axon elongation. Together, our results support a critical role for an SDF-1α/Rho/mDia1 pathway in mediating axon elongation.
Different degrees of lever arm rotation control myosin step size
Authors: Köhler Danny , Ruff Christine , Meyhöfer Edgar , Bähler Martin
Published: April 2003

Myosins are actin-based motors that are generally believed to move by amplifying small structural changes in the core motor domain via a lever arm rotation of the light chain binding domain. However, the lack of a quantitative agreement between observed step sizes and the length of the proposed lever arms from different myosins challenges this view. We analyzed the step size of rat myosin 1d (Myo1d) and surprisingly found that this myosin takes unexpectedly large steps in comparison to other myosins. Engineering the length of the light chain binding domain of rat Myo1d resulted in a linear increase of step size in relation to the putative lever arm length, indicative of a lever arm rotation of the light chain binding domain. The extrapolated pivoting point resided in the same region of the rat Myo1d head domain as in conventional myosins. Therefore, rat Myo1d achieves its larger working stroke by a large calculated ∼90° rotation of the light chain binding domain. These results demonstrate that differences in myosin step sizes are not only controlled by lever arm length, but also by substantial differences in the degree of lever arm rotation.
Regulation of β cell glucokinase by S-nitrosylation and association with nitric oxide synthase
Authors: Rizzo Mark A. , Piston David W.
Published: April 2003

Glucokinase (GK) activity plays a key role in glucose-stimulated insulin secretion from pancreatic β cells. Insulin regulates GK activity by modulating its association with secretory granules, although little is known about the mechanisms involved in regulating this association. Using quantitative imaging of multicolor fluorescent proteins fused to GK, we found that the dynamic association of GK with secretory granules is modulated through nitric oxide (NO). Our results in cultured β cells show that insulin stimulates NO production and leads to S-nitrosylation of GK. Furthermore, inhibition of NO synthase (NOS) activity blocks insulin-stimulated changes in both GK association with secretory granules and GK conformation. Mutation of cysteine 371 to serine blocks S-nitrosylation of GK and causes GK to remain tightly bound to secretory granules. GK was also found to interact stably with neuronal NOS as detected by coimmunoprecipitation and fluorescence resonance energy transfer. Finally, attachment of a nuclear localization signal sequence to NOS drives GK to the nucleus in addition to its normal cytoplasmic and granule targeting. Together, these data suggest that the regulation of GK localization and activity in pancreatic β cells is directly related to NO production and that the association of GK with secretory granules occurs through its interaction with NOS.
Defining desmosomal plakophilin-3 interactions
Authors: Bonné Stefan , Gilbert Barbara , Hatzfeld Mechthild , Chen Xinyu , Green Kathleen J. , van Roy Frans
Published: April 2003

Plakophilin 3 (PKP3) is a recently described armadillo protein of the desmosomal plaque, which is synthesized in simple and stratified epithelia. We investigated the localization pattern of endogenous and exogenous PKP3 and fragments thereof. The desmosomal binding properties of PKP3 were determined using yeast two-hybrid, coimmunoprecipitation and colocalization experiments. To this end, novel mouse anti-PKP3 mAbs were generated. We found that PKP3 binds all three desmogleins, desmocollin (Dsc) 3a and -3b, and possibly also Dsc1a and -2a. As such, this is the first protein interaction ever observed with a Dsc-b isoform. Moreover, we determined that PKP3 interacts with plakoglobin, desmoplakin (DP) and the epithelial keratin 18. Evidence was found for the presence of at least two DP–PKP3 interaction sites. This finding might explain how lateral DP–PKP interactions are established in the upper layers of stratified epithelia, increasing the size of the desmosome and the number of anchoring points available for keratins. Together, these results show that PKP3, whose epithelial and epidermal desmosomal expression pattern and protein interaction repertoire are broader than those of PKP1 and -2, is a unique multiprotein binding element in the basic architecture of a vast majority of epithelial desmosomes.
Single Channel Function of Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate Receptor Type-1 and -2 Isoform Domain-Swap Chimeras
Authors: Ramos Jorge , Jung Wonyong , Ramos-Franco Josefina , Mignery Gregory A. , Fill Michael
Published: April 2003

The InsP3R proteins have three recognized domains, the InsP3-binding, regulatory/coupling, and channel domains (Mignery, G.A., and T.C. Südhof. 1990. EMBO J. 9:3893–3898). The InsP3 binding domain and the channel-forming domain are at opposite ends of the protein. Ligand regulation of the channel must involve communication between these different regions of the protein. This communication likely involves the interceding sequence (i.e., the regulatory/coupling domain). The single channel functional attributes of the full-length recombinant type-1, -2, and -3 InsP3R channels have been defined. Here, two type-1/type-2 InsP3R regulatory/coupling domain chimeras were created and their single channel function defined. One chimera (1-2-1) contained the type-2 regulatory/coupling domain in a type-1 backbone. The other chimera (2-1-2) contained the type-1 regulatory/coupling domain in a type-2 backbone. These chimeric proteins were expressed in COS cells, isolated, and then reconstituted in proteoliposomes. The proteoliposomes were incorporated into artificial planar lipid bilayers and the single-channel function of the chimeras defined. The chimeras had permeation properties like that of wild-type channels. The ligand regulatory properties of the chimeras were altered. The InsP3 and Ca2+ regulation had some unique features but also had features in common with wild-type channels. These results suggest that different independent structural determinants govern InsP3R permeation and ligand regulation. It also suggests that ligand regulation is a multideterminant process that involves several different regions of the protein. This study also demonstrates that a chimera approach can be applied to define InsP3R structure-function.
Effect of Phosphatidylserine on Unitary Conductance and Ba2+ Block of the BK Ca2+–activated K+ Channel
Authors: Park Jin Bong , Kim Hee Jeong , Ryu Pan Dong , Moczydlowski Edward
Published: April 2003

Incorporation of BK Ca2+–activated K+ channels into planar bilayers composed of negatively charged phospholipids such as phosphatidylserine (PS) or phosphatidylinositol (PI) results in a large enhancement of unitary conductance (gch) in comparison to BK channels in bilayers formed from the neutral zwitterionic lipid, phospatidylethanolamine (PE). Enhancement of gch by PS or PI is inversely dependent on KCl concentration, decreasing from 70% at 10 mM KCl to 8% at 1,000 mM KCl. This effect was explained previously by a surface charge hypothesis (Moczydlowski, E., O. Alvarez, C. Vergara, and R. Latorre. 1985. J. Membr. Biol. 83:273–282), which attributed the conductance enhancement to an increase in local K+ concentration near the entryways of the channel. To test this hypothesis, we measured the kinetics of block by external and internal Ba2+, a divalent cation that is expected to respond strongly to changes in surface electrostatics. We observed little or no effect of PS on discrete blocking kinetics by external and internal Ba2+ at 100 mM KCl and only a small enhancement of discrete and fast block by external Ba2+ in PS-containing membranes at 20 mM KCl. Model calculations of effective surface potential sensed by the K+ conduction and Ba2+-blocking reactions using the Gouy-Chapman-Stern theory of lipid surface charge do not lend support to a simple electrostatic mechanism that predicts valence-dependent increase of local cation concentration. The results imply that the conduction pore of the BK channel is electrostatically insulated from the lipid surface, presumably by a lateral distance of separation (>20 Å) from the lipid head groups. The lack of effect of PS on apparent association and dissociation rates of Ba2+ suggest that lipid modulation of K+ conductance is preferentially coupled through conformational changes of the selectivity filter region that determine the high K+ flux rate of this channel relative to other cations. We discuss possible mechanisms for the effect of anionic lipids in the context of specific molecular interactions of phospholipids documented for the KcsA bacterial potassium channel and general membrane physical properties proposed to regulate membrane protein conformation via energetics of bilayer stress.
Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate–induced Calcium Release Is Necessary for Generating the Entire Light Response of Limulus Ventral Photoreceptors
Authors: Fein Alan
Published: April 2003

The experiments reported here were designed to answer the question of whether inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-induced calcium release is necessary for generating the entire light response of Limulus ventral photoreceptors. For this purpose the membrane-permeable IP3 receptor antagonist 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2APB) (Maruyama, T., T. Kanaji, S. Nakade, T. Kanno, and K. Mikoshiba. 1997. J. Biochem. (Tokyo). 122:498–505) was used. Previously, 2APB was found to inhibit the light activated current of Limulus ventral photoreceptors and reversibly inhibit both light and IP3 induced calcium release as well as the current activated by pressure injection of calcium into the light sensitive lobe of the photoreceptor (Wang, Y., M. Deshpande, and R. Payne. 2002. Cell Calcium. 32:209). In this study 2APB was found to inhibit the response to a flash of light at all light intensities and to inhibit the entire light response to a step of light, that is, both the initial transient and the steady-state components of the response to a step of light were inhibited. The light response in cells injected with the calcium buffer 1,2-bis(o-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N′,N′-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA) was reversibly inhibited by 2APB, indicating that these light responses result from IP3-mediated calcium release giving rise to an increase in Cai. The light response obtained from cells after treatment with 100 μM cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), which acts to empty intracellular calcium stores, was reversibly inhibited by 2APB, indicating that the light response after CPA treatment results from IP3-mediated calcium release and a consequent rise in Cai. Together these findings imply that IP3-induced calcium release is necessary for generating the entire light response of Limulus ventral photoreceptors.
Tandem Gramicidin Channels Cross-linked by Streptavidin
Authors: Rokitskaya Tatyana I. , Kotova Elena A. , Antonenko Yuri N.
Published: April 2003

The interaction of biotin-binding proteins with biotinylated gramicidin (gA5XB) was studied by monitoring single-channel activity and sensitized photoinactivation kinetics. It was discovered that the addition of streptavidin or avidin to the bathing solutions of a bilayer lipid membrane (BLM) with incorporated gA5XB induced the opening of a channel characterized by approximately doubled single-channel conductance and extremely long open-state duration. We believe that the deceleration of the photoinactivation kinetics observed here with streptavidin and previously (Rokitskaya, T.I., Y.N. Antonenko, E.A. Kotova, A. Anastasiadis, and F. Separovic. 2000. Biochemistry. 39:13053–13058) with avidin reflects the formation of long-lived channels of this type. Both opening and closing of the double-conductance channels occurred via a transient sub-state of the conductance coinciding with that of the usual single-channel transition. The appearance of the double-conductance channels after the addition of streptavidin was preceded by bursts of fast fluctuations of the current with the open state duration of the individual events of 60 ms. The streptavidin-induced double-conductance channels appeared to be inherent only to the gramicidin analogue with a biotin group linked to the COOH terminus through a long linker arm. Including biotinylated phosphatidylethanolamine into the BLM prevented the formation of the double-conductance channels even with the excess streptavidin. In view of the results obtained here, it is suggested that the double-conductance channel represents a tandem of two neighboring gA5XB channels with their COOH termini being cross-linked by the bound streptavidin at both sides of the BLM. The finding that streptavidin induces the formation of the tandem gramicidin channel comprising two channels functioning in concert is considered to be relevant to the physiologically important phenomenon of ligand-induced receptor oligomerization.
Annexin A4 Reduces Water and Proton Permeability of Model Membranes but Does Not Alter Aquaporin 2–mediated Water Transport in Isolated Endosomes
Authors: Hill Warren G. , Kaetzel Marcia A. , Kishore Bellamkonda K. , Dedman John R. , Zeidel Mark L.
Published: April 2003

Annexin A4 (Anx4) belongs to a ubiquitous family of Ca2+-dependent membrane-binding proteins thought to be involved in membrane trafficking and membrane organization within cells. Anx4 localizes to the apical region in epithelia; however, its physiological role is unclear. We show that Anx4 exhibited binding to liposomes (phosphatidylcholine:phosphatidylserine, 1:1) in the presence of Ca2+ and binding was reversible with EDTA. Anx4 binding resulted in liposome aggregation and a reduction in membrane water permeability of 29% (P < 0.001) at 25°C. These effects were not seen in the presence of Ca2+ or Anx4 alone and were reversible with EDTA. Measurements of membrane fluidity made by monitoring fluorescence anisotropy of 2-(12-(7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl)amino)dodecanoyl-1-hexadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (NBD-HPC) demonstrated that Anx4 binding rigidified the outer leaflet of the bilayer (P < 0.001), thus providing a molecular explanation for the inhibition of water flux. To determine whether Anx4 would produce similar effects on physiological membranes we constructed liposomes which recapitulated the lipid composition of the inner leaflet of the MDCK apical membrane. These membranes exhibited reductions to water permeability upon Anx4 binding (19.5% at 25°C, 31% at 37°C; P < 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively) and to proton permeability (15% at 25°C, 19.5% at 37°C; P < 0.05). Since our in vitro experiments indicated an effect on membrane permeability, we examined localization of Anx4 in the kidney collecting duct, a region of the nephron responsible for concentrating urine through water reabsorbtion. Anx4 was shown to colocalize apically with aquaporin 2 (AQP2) in collecting duct epithelia. To test for the existence of a functional interaction between Anx4 and AQP2 we isolated AQP2-containing endosomes and exposed them to Anx4/Ca2+. Water flux rates were unchanged, indicating Anx4 does not directly regulate AQP2. We conclude that Anx4 can alter the physical properties of membranes by associating with them and regulate passive membrane permeability to water and protons. These properties represent important new functions for Anx4.
High resolution standard proximity sensor
Authors: Blaser Roger
Published: April 2003

The high‐resolution standard proximity sensor (HRSPS) is a true contact‐less eddy current displacement measuring system qualified for high‐reliability satellite applications. It is also available in an 883B flight version for micro‐gravity and for the International Space Station (ISS). Three different sensor sizes covering three measuring ranges up to 9 mm (0.35 in.) are available. The HRSPS offers either two independent single or one differential output(s) with a resolution of 1 nm. The temperature range for standard space flight is −55‐70°C but the sensors have provision for operation to −150°C (−238°F) for mission to Mars. The reliability figures of the HRSPS are 1.7 million hours for ISS applications and 2.5 million hours for the satellite version. It is operating under +28 V DC (with fuse) 2 W or ±15 V DC 1.5 W. The power consumption in the sensor head is below 15 mW. This paper presents the test results and the final confirmation of the performances of the HRSPS. The HRSPS should become the standard nano‐measuring system qualified for space mechanisms operating in closed loop control. It is designed in order to accept the worst launcher environment.
Phoning in sick? An overview of employee stress in call centres
Authors: Holman David
Published: April 2003

This paper reviews three studies that examine the main causes of employee stress and well‐being in call centres. All three studies were conducted by the author and his colleagues and reveal that employee well‐being in call centres is associated with: effective job design; performance monitoring that is not perceived to be intense and which aims to develop employees; supportive management; and, supportive human resource practices. Furthermore, levels of well‐being in call centres are shown to compare favourably to other forms of work. The studies challenge the image of call centres as “electronic sweatshops” and question the idea that call centre work is inevitably stressful. It is argued that managers have a choice in how to organise call centre work and can take steps to actively design employee stress out of call centre work. Practical recommendations on how to reduce employee stress in call centres are discussed.
Remote transformational leadership
Authors: Kevin Kelloway E. , Barling Julian , Kelley Elizabeth , Comtois Julie , Gatien Bernadette
Published: April 2003

We present two studies of remote transformational leadership. In the first, 175 students read a vignette depicting either alaissez‐faire, management by exception, contingent reward, or transformational leadership style communicated by electronic mail (e‐mail). Results showed that students could distinguish between the various leadership styles, and both interpersonal justice and supervision satisfaction were perceived to be higher when a transformational style was presented. In the second study, 105 undergraduates completed individual and group problem solving tasks after reading an e‐mail containing either an intellectually stimulating or charismatic message in a 2×2 design. Participants properly identified the leadership style intended by the e‐mail. Motivation was higher, and both individual and group performance greater, in the leadership conditions.
Informatics: a brief survey
Authors: He Shaoyi
Published: April 2003

Since the late 1970s, the term “informatics” has increasingly been adopted to describe the application of information technology to various fields, such as legal informatics, medical informatics, social informatics and organizational informatics. This article provides a brief survey of informatics with respect to its historical background, disciplinary identity, fundamental aspects, applications, and challenges.
Overcoming psychological obstacles to optimal online search performance
Authors: Quinn Brian
Published: April 2003

Successful online searching is more than simply a matter of mastering search technique. Emotions, attitudes and environmental factors like stress also play a crucial role in determining whether an online search will be successful or not. Focuses on the important relationship between emotion and cognition, how they affect each other, and what the implications are for online searchers. Investigates how affect and mood influence key cognitive functions and can pose psychological hurdles related to motivation, arousal, attention, concentration, self‐confidence, and self‐efficacy, all of which can be significant factors in determining the effectiveness of a search. Viewing searching behavior as a form of mental and physical performance similar to that of an athlete or performing artist, draws on the growing body of psychological research on performance which suggests that having the proper mindset can make an important difference in whether a searcher is successful.
Metadata management system: design and implementation
Authors: Yu Shien‐Chiang , Lu Kun‐Yung , Chen Ruey‐Shun
Published: April 2003

Commonly, an organizational information system may have various data types and directory formats. It usually employs different metadata formats to represent the documents. Although the metadata system can cover the different formats of documents, there still exist the integration problems in various metadata systems. This may lower the performance of data processing and impede information sharing. Research focuses on the model of using multi‐XML schema to construct an XML system framework. Through a complete hierarchical tree structure definition of inner elements, the proposed model can settle the weakness of traditional object‐oriented languages in information sharing; it can also eliminate the constraints of storage and management among heterogeneous metadata while processing different metadata information.
HRD: working at the boundaries and interfaces of organisations
Authors: McCarthy Alma , Garavan Thomas , O’Toole Thomas
Published: April 2003

This paper argues that human resource development (HRD) can make an important contribution in facilitating the effective management of boundaries and interfaces in organisations. Organisations are increasingly required to network and collaborate both internally and externally in order to achieve key strategic objectives. HRD can facilitate and contribute to this process at four levels of intervention.
The learning combination lock – an experiential approach to learning design
Authors: Wilson John P. , Beard Colin
Published: April 2003

This article investigates the meaning of experiential learning and relates this to the nature of cognition through the development of an experiential learning model based on information processing. This experiential learning model is then used as the basis for the design of a meta‐model – the learning combination lock (LCL). The LCL model provides for the first time, to our knowledge, a systematic process for the trainer, educator or developer to consider and select from some of the main ingredients of the learning process. It is not intended to be used mechanistically but rather as an aide‐mémoire which may also be added to and developed according to the considerations of the programme designer, the trainer or educator, and the needs of the learner.
Complex systems: boundary‐spanning training techniques
Authors: Adler Terry , Black Janice A. , Loveland John P.
Published: April 2003

This paper explores the issue of the types of skills required of leaders and followers in new organizational forms. It reviews the concept of virtual teams in organizations. The paper addresses the role of training in facilitating boundary spanning in organisations using case examples.
Strategies of HRD professionals in organising learning programmes: a qualitative study among 20 Dutch HRD professionals
Authors: Poell Rob F. , Pluijmen Rachelle , Van der Krogt Ferd J.
Published: April 2003

This study aims to explore how current HRD strategies are put into practice and to what extent they are in line with theoretical ideas espoused in HRD literature. Two research questions are framed within the theoretical framework of learning‐network theory. First, what strategies do HRD practitioners employ to organise learning programmes? Second, what problems and barriers do HRD practitioners encounter in organisational reality? The study is based on data collected from 20 Dutch HRD practitioners using a semi‐structured interview questionnaire. A qualitative analysis was conducted on interview summaries authorised by the respondents. Results indicate a rather broad range of different HRD strategies employed and many problems and barriers encountered in putting preferred HRD strategies into practice. Explanations, implications, and limitations of the findings are discussed.
Training the knowledge worker: a descriptive study of training practices in Irish software companies
Authors: Acton Thomas , Golden Willie
Published: April 2003

The IT workforce of a company may embody its most important strategic asset. Such an asset needs to be managed. At a company level, measures that support and encourage knowledge transfer amongst employees can help minimise the effect of the loss of skilled staff. This paper details the results of a survey administered to 200 employees across 39 software companies in Ireland. The study assessed the impact of training practices on employee retention, gathered data on the effects of training initiatives, the types of training in use, and the influence of training on knowledge retention. Results demonstrate that organisational attitudes and provision for training relate positively to employee expectations and requirements. Well‐engineered training initiatives lead to increased organisational strength, job‐related employee competencies, and job satisfaction. Training helps in retaining knowledge within the organisation, but may not help in retaining employees. Almost one third of respondents believe that training received has not helped to reduce job‐related stress and more than one quarter indicate that their organisation does not structure training based on employee feedback on requirements.
Accrediting competencies: a case of Scottish vocational qualifications
Authors: Pate Judy , Martin Graeme , Robertson Marc
Published: April 2003

This paper reports the findings of a case study undertaken in the Scottish hospitality industry of which the process of accrediting competencies has been positively experienced by employees and managers of Montpelier (Edinburgh) Ltd. The paper begins by reviewing some of the British and American theoretical and practical literature on the accreditation of competencies to raise some of the issues which are addressed by our data. The study draws on both quantitative and qualitative methodologies in order to evaluate the value of Scottish vocational qualifications (SVQs) to both the employee and employer. The findings suggest that, on balance, the competence approach has proven to be a popular and useful method of job and career development for those people participating in the programme and provides a useful development framework for the employer.
Linking organisational training and development practices with new forms of career structure: a cross‐national exploration
Authors: Kelly Aidan , Brannick Teresa , Hulpke John , Levine Jacqueline , To Michelle
Published: April 2003

This paper reports the results of an empirical study which explores the extent to which career structures have changed. The study examines the influence of technological change, fast‐changing environments, manufacturing and increasing globalisation of products and service markets on careers. The study focuses on these issues in a cross‐cultural context. The study found that in general, more sophisticated human resources activities were associated with career pathing in organizations.
Strategic downsizing and learning organisations
Authors: Griggs Harvey E. , Hyland Paul
Published: April 2003

The quality of individual and collective learning has been held to be a key determinant of organisational success. It has been strongly advocated that the “continuously learning organisation” is perhaps the greatest business asset in an organisation. Organisations are becoming more systematic in identifying measures to overcome losses caused by downsizing by proactively developing learning systems to capture, record and manage the knowledge of operational employees and engineering/technical staff. This paper discusses the nature of the planned “brain‐drain” phenomenon, the concept of the learning organisation, and the conceptual relationship between the two, and by analysing an empirical case study demonstrating that restructuring and organisational learning are not necessarily mutually exclusive concepts.
HRD and labour market practices in a US multinational subsidiary: the impact of global and local influences
Authors: Collings David G.
Published: April 2003

This paper examines the extent to which the human resource development (HRD) and labour market dynamics of a US multinational subsidiary in Ireland are influenced by global and local factors. Specifically the study examines the dynamic between central control and subsidiary autonomy in relation to HRD and labour market management. Using a single case study, the author explores the extent to which the subsidiary is constrained or enabled by virtue of its US heritage, and the relative impact of the Irish environment on its operation. The findings indicate that the subsidiary possesses considerable autonomy in relation to content aspects of HRD interventions while corporate interest was primarily focused on budgetary issues. Turning to labour market management, it is argued that the subsidiary’s long‐term focus is characteristic of the welfare capitalist approach to HR management. The main manifestations of this approach in the case company are outlined, while also acknowledging the impact of sectoral and company specific factors in shaping HRD and labour market management in the subsidiary.
Developing indigenous tourism: challenges for the Guianas
Authors: Sinclair Donald
Published: April 2003

As emergent tourism destinations, the Guianas are new players in a game in which rules have been agreed, strategies defined and competition has been intense. New players succeed by demonstrating creativity and innovation and by seizing comparative advantage. The possession of unique natural attractions, the presence of indigenous communities or rare cultural forms are all precious resources commanding comparative advantage for the Guianas. However, because of the special character of indigenous tourism, development of that form of tourism is not possible without the articulation and implementation of appropriate policy measures. In the absence of that policy infrastructure the possibilities for error and conflict are immense. This paper explores the key challenges in the path of the development of indigenous tourism and suggests clear policy guidelines that should inform the development of indigenous tourism in the pursuit of comparative advantage.
Towards an alternative tourism for Belize
Authors: Boxill Ian
Published: April 2003

This paper argues that tourism development in Belize should avoid going the traditional mass tourism route of most Caribbean destinations. Instead, it suggests that Belize is at the appropriate stage in its development to forge an alternative model, which draws and builds on its geographical location, history, culture and ecology. In making this case, the paper identifies a number of limiting and facilitating factors to tourism development. These facilitating factors recommend the alternative model. Specifically, the alternative model includes nature, education and community tourism; and a type of cruise tourism that is linked to education and culture. For this effort to succeed, the paper recommends that government and civil society work together to develop the country’s human resources and to structure a strategy to achieve the goals.
Cuba: hero of the Caribbean? A profile of its tourism education strategy
Authors: Wood Pat , Jayawardena Chandana
Published: April 2003

Features a realistic perspective of the current hospitality and tourism paradigm in Cuba. Previews the newly released hospitality and tourism education strategy to be rolled out in 2003. Provides an evaluation of the tourism and hospitality industry environment, education environment, workforce and change in policy. The authors made three research trips to Cuba in 1997, 2001 and 2002. A series of elite interviews were conducted in Cuba, Jamaica and the UK with senior Cuban policymakers. Current data and views from Cuban partners and practitioners are used to inform the discussion. Cuba continues to be one of the most mystical tourist destinations in the world with a phenomenal growth rate during recent years. The new tourism education strategy is a key for Cuba to once again become the number one destination in the Caribbean.
The future of hospitality education in Grenada
Authors: McDonald Michelle L. , Hopkin Royston O.
Published: April 2003

The quality of hospitality education is a topical issue. It is being increasingly realised that the education level of tourism employees impacts on the quality of a country’s tourism industry. As the most tourism‐oriented region globally, the Caribbean is slowly awakening to the realisation that, unless its tourism employees are highly educated and skilled, the region will continue to account for an insignificant percentage of world tourism arrivals. In Grenada, hospitality education courses are limited, given the small tourism plant and comparatively low visitor arrivals. Research was undertaken by one of the authors, to explore the opinions of the accommodation sector about current education provisions and the future direction that courses should take. Integration of all stakeholders in the implementation of the broad education policy outlined by the government is crucial to improving hospitality education in Grenada to ensure a competitive tourism industry.
The “all‐inclusive” concept in the Caribbean
Authors: Issa John J. , Jayawardena Chandana
Published: April 2003

Seeks to review the all‐inclusive concept in the context of the Caribbean. The origin of all‐inclusives in the world and the Caribbean is analysed. The concept was first introduced in holiday camps in Britain during the 1930s. Club Med is credited for popularizing the concept globally in the 1950s. However, the credit of introducing a luxury version of the all‐inclusive concept goes to a Jamaican hotelier and co‐author of this article. In defining the concept of all‐inclusives, one cannot ignore the significant role Jamaica has played. Currently, Jamaica has 17 of the best 100 all‐inclusive resorts in the world. Even though all‐inclusives are occasionally criticized, they are seen as a necessary evil. Concludes by predicting that all‐inclusives are here to stay in the Caribbean and will play a major role in tourism for the foreseeable future.
The feasibility of Sabbath‐keeping in the Caribbean hospitality industry
Authors: Huntley Eritha , Barnes‐Reid Carol
Published: April 2003

This article addresses religious tolerance for Sabbath‐keepers in the hospitality industry. The authors approach this issue by assessing the perception of managers in the Jamaican tourism industry on this topic. A major finding was that managers are reluctant to employ persons who have a strong desire to observe the Sabbath. The researchers also discovered that the law does not provide specific provisions to protect the rights of Sabbath‐keepers. Managers are, however, willing to make arrangements to facilitate these individuals whenever possible. This augurs well for students of hospitality management who desire to observe the Sabbath. More research on this topic is needed since this study is by no means exhaustive.
Performance of tourism analysis: a Caribbean perspective
Authors: Jayawardena Chandana , Ramajeesingh Diaram
Published: April 2003

Introduces a new concept, performance of tourism (POT) analysis as a tool for measuring the performance of tourist destinations. Comments on the Caribbean region’s overdependence on tourism, and examines the scope of foreign exchange leakage. Tourism in the Caribbean generally grows faster than the world average. Often the success of tourism is measured from the gross figures rather than the net figures. Presents data from four Caribbean countries, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Jamaica and St Lucia to explain the concept. Key findings reflect surprising results. Based on the analysis done, a relatively new tourism destination in the Caribbean, Aruba, has outperformed mature tourist destination, Jamaica, by 16 to one.
The state and tourism: a Caribbean perspective
Authors: McDavid Hilton , Ramajeesingh Diaram
Published: April 2003

Tourism, today, has not only emerged as the engine of growth but also become the largest and the fastest growing sector in the Caribbean. For this reason the industry is now viewed as one of the leading instruments of development in the region. Given the importance of the industry, it is incumbent on governments to orient tourism growth towards meeting the socioeconomic needs and environmental requirements of the region. To meet these objectives, however, regional governments are required to play a greater role in directing and shaping the future development of the industry. This paper strongly argues in favour of a greater role in the industry, both through direct and indirect market intervention, by governments of the region.
Policy coherence and sustainable tourism in the Caribbean
Authors: Clayton Anthony
Published: April 2003

The common failure to give due weight to environmental and social factors creates a risk that that short‐term economic growth objectives may be traded off against long‐term objectives, such as environmental quality. This potential policy conflict may be exacerbated in the developing countries that are undergoing structural adjustment, as the associated trimming of non‐core public expenditure will typically include measures designed to manage the environment. Thus the long‐term future of the vital tourist industry might be compromised in the process of meeting short‐term public expenditure reduction targets. The solution lies partly in improved policy coherence; micro‐level prescriptions are more likely to be sustainable per se and also help to underpin a wider process of sustainable development if the appropriate policy framework is analysed and evolved integrally, as part of a coherent national plan. The need, therefore, is for an appropriate, flexible structure that could capture the business, environmental and developmental aspects of tourism.
Validity and reliability tests in case study research: a literature review with “hands‐on” applications for each research phase
Authors: Riege Andreas M.
Published: April 2003

Despite the advantages of the case study method, its reliability and validity remain in doubt. Tests to establish the validity and reliability of qualitative data are important to determine the stability and quality of the data obtained. However, there is no single, coherent set of validity and reliability tests for each research phase in case study research available in the literature. This article presents an argument for the case study method in marketing research, examining various criteria for judging the quality of the method and highlighting various techniques, which can be addressed to achieve objectivity, and rigorous and relevant information for planning to marketing actions. The purpose of this article is to invite further research by discussing the use of various scientific techniques for establishing the validity and reliability in case study research. The article provides guidelines for achieving high validity and reliability for each phase in case study research.
Exploring and modelling consumer attitudes towards genetically modified food
Authors: Verdurme Annelies , Viaene Jacques
Published: April 2003

The aim of this research is, first, to explore consumer beliefs, attitudes and purchase intentions with regard to genetically modified (GM) food and second, based on this exploration, to develop a hypothetical model which can explain and predict consumer attitudes and purchase intentions with regard to GM food. For this twofold purpose, qualitative research and a review of relevant, mainly European, literature are combined. The qualitative research comprises focus group discussions with consumers and in‐depth interviews with representatives of interested parties. The developed model suggests differences between premium branded and generic GM food products regarding the formation of attitudes and purchase intentions.
Using laddering to understand and leverage a brand’s equity
Authors: Wansink Brian
Published: April 2003

Understanding a brand’s equity is difficult for researchers. Building on means‐end theory, describes a method – laddering – which has proven useful in uncovering insights related to the source and the nature of a brand’s equity. Through laddering interviews, a meaningful “mental map” can be developed that visually links a brand’s attributes, the benefits or consequences of using it, and the personal values it satisfies. An analysis of 1,200 laddering interviews indicates that a combination of only seven basic values are at the core of most brand purchases. A number of illustrations of laddering insights and their implications for the marketing mix are given to show how laddering can help marketers understand and revitalize brand equity.
Indicators for measuring environmental sustainability
Authors: Veleva Vesela , Hart Maureen , Greiner Tim , Crumbley Cathy
Published: April 2003

Ten years after the Earth Summit, a frequently asked question is how much, if any, progress has actually been made toward sustainable development. This article provides insight into the progress made by business in addressing and measuring progress toward sustainable production. Using a five‐level indicator hierarchy developed at the Lowell Center for Sustainable Production, the authors analyzed the environmental sustainability indicators voluntarily‐reported by six pharmaceutical companies, half of which are Global Reporting Initiative pilots. Results demonstrate that most indicators currently being publicly reported address performance or eco‐efficiency (Level 2), a few indicators look at environmental effects (Level 3), only the Global Reporting Initiative pilots are beginning to address and report on supply‐chain and product life‐cycle effects (Level 4), and no companies are addressing carrying capacity issues (Level 5). Based on their experience with other companies, the authors feel that the results of this small, single‐industry survey reflect the current state‐of‐the‐art in terms of developing more sustainable production systems.
Environmental performance of products
Authors: Schvaneveldt Shane J.
Published: April 2003

Increasingly, manufacturers and service providers face the challenge of improving the environmental performance of their products. A number of studies have shown the importance of environmental goals and measures for successful environmental design efforts in firms. This paper provides a framework of environmental goals or benchmarks and examines Sony Corporation as a case study of improving the environmental performance of products. Specific examples of Sony's targets for improvement are provided along with examples of initiatives for their achievement. In particular, Sony's product assessment check sheet is introduced as a simple yet effective tool for identifying areas for environmental improvement, as well as for measuring and promoting improvement efforts in alignment with the organization's longer‐term environmental goals.