bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of spheroid culture to human hepatocytes and maintenance of their differentiation
Authors: Tong Jian Zhong , Sarrazin Sophie , Cassio Doris , Gauthier Frédéric , Alvarez Fernando
Published: August 2004

Summary— Human hepatocytes cultured with a hormonally defined medium on non‐adherent poly‐(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) coated surface were able to form spheroids. The maintenance of liver‐specific functions was assessed by following secretion of albumin, transferrin and α‐antitrypsin that were still detectable after 4 months of spheroidal culture. Moreover, cytochrome P‐450 IA was induced by methylcholanthrene for up to 2 weeks. This cell system is very promising for long‐term in vitro studies of human hepatocyte functions.
Intermediate filaments — Heterogenous expression pattern and modulation: Can their role in structure and function of the cell be ascertained?
Authors: Singh Shashi , Gupta PD
Published: August 2004

Summary— Intermediate filaments (IFs), a group of highly heterogenous proteins grouped on the basis of their size, are expressed almost ubiquitously and specifically. Earlier, IFs were considered to play a major role in maintaining cell shape along with other cytoskeletal elements, however, the multitude of IFs are unlikely to have a single function. Evolution pattern of IFs reveals presence of simple IFs in a wide range of cells in lower vertebrates whereas structurally complex IFs have specific distribution in higher vertebrates, implicating they may have evolved later in need to perform specialized functions. There could be functions common to various IFs, but some IFs may have very specific functions. Functional capabilities could also be a result of the various dynamic modifications displayed by IFs under influence of different intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Functions assigned to the IFs in the literature range from providing a passive skeletal support to the cells to involvement in macromolecular biosynthesis, signal transduction and control of gene expression. In this review, we have attempted to outline the possible functional roles that IFs may play in resting. and actively dividing and differentiating cells.
Replication sites as revealed by double label immunofluorescence against proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) in synchronized CHO cells and vincristine‐induced multinucleate cells
Authors: Takanari Hideki , Yamanaka Hidetaka , Mitani Hideaki , Izutsu Kosaku
Published: August 2004

Summary— Double label immunofluorescence against PCNA and BrdU clearly revealed several characteristics of DNA replication sites in synchronized CHO cells. We observed that the distribution of replication sites changed from early to late S phase, particularly in the nucleolar and perinuclear regions, and the amount of PCNA in each replication site markedly decreased or disappeared with the progression of S phase. Although co‐localization of PCNA and BrdU was usually seen, the intensity of fluorescence occasionally differed between the labeled PCNA and BrdU, particularly in late S phase. Based on the assumption that such a difference may reflect a different configuration of the chromatin, we propose that the brightly granular fluorescent staining of PCNA or BrdU in early S phase indicates a condensed segment of euchromatin. In the late S phase nucleus, we clearly observed a chromatin‐like structure in the late replicating segments of heterochromatin in anti‐PCNA stained material. In vincristine‐induced multinucleate cells, a discrepancy between PCNA‐distribution and BrdU‐incorporation in sister nuclei was sometimes seen. Such observations indirectly support the following two mechanisms for premature chromosome condensation proposed by others: asynchronous initiation of DNA synthesis; and a difference in the rate of DNA synthesis. In addition, the finding that BrdU was not incorporated into sites that had PCNA deposits suggests a third mechanism: the local disturbance of replication sites. Furthermore, unusual distribution patterns for replication sites suggest that the nucleation process in multinucleate cells differs from that in normal cells.
Sister chromatid differentiation after in situ detection of ultraviolet‐induced DNA breaks under electron microscopy
Authors: Fernández Joséluis , Campos Asunción , Goyanes Vicente , Buño Ismael , Gosálvez Jaime
Published: August 2004

Summary— Chinese hamster DON cells with 5‐bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU)‐substituted chromosomes were ultraviolet (UV)‐exposed and processed for in situ detection of induced DNA breaks under electron microscopy. For this purpose, UV‐induced breaks were amplified by an exonuclease III digestion to obtain single stranded DNA motifs which could hybridize with oligonucleotides of random sequences. These reannealed motifs could be used as primers which were extended by the Klenow polymerase, incorporating biotinylated‐dUTP that was detected by a gold‐tagged streptavidin. After processing, the chromatid whose DNA was BrdU‐substituted in one strand showed a higher electron density than the chromatid substituted in both strands. In contrast, the unifilarly substituted chromatid showed about twice the labelling of DNA breaks as the bifilarly substituted one. This result could be the consequence of a greater loss of chromatin tracts in the bifilarly substituted chromatid, as implied by an X‐ray microanalysis which showed that the amount of phosphorous lost by the bifilarly substituted chromatid was higher than that of the unifilarly substituted chromatid.
Uptake by rat liver of bovine growth hormone free or bound to a monoclonal antibody
Authors: Tans Christine , Dubois Frans , Zhong Zhi‐Duan , Jadot Michel , Wattiaux Robert , Coninck Simone Wattiaux‐De
Published: August 2004

Summary— In the work reported here, we have compared the elimination from the blood, the uptake by the liver and the intracellular distribution of bovine growth hormone, free(Gh) or bound to a monoclonal antibody (GhAb). Results show that: a) the elimination from the blood is more rapid for Gh than for GhAb; b) both molecules are quickly taken up by the liver; c) probably after travelling through endosomes, Gh and GhAb get to lysosomes where they are degraded. However, Gh mostly ends in hepatocyte lysosomes while GhAb is recovered to a large extent in sinusoidal cell lysosomes; and d) binding by isolated hepatocytes is markedly less efficient for GhAb than for Gh.
Acquisition of viable‐like surface properties of sperm cells by adsorption of seminal plasma proteins revealed by centrifugal countercurrent distribution
Authors: Pascual ML , Muiño‐Blanco T. , Cebrián‐Pérez JA , López‐Pérez MJ
Published: August 2004

Summary— By using centrifugal countercurrent distribution in dextran/polyethylene glycol two‐phase system, we show that the acquisition of adsorbed seminal plasma proteins by the sperm cell surface modifies the partition behaviour of bull spermatozoa reproducing that of alive cells. Thus, addition of increasing concentrations of proteins from the seminal plasma promoted a saturable enhanced affinity of the cells to the polyethylene glycol‐rich phase in which alive cells preferentially partition. On the contrary, treatment with Tween provoked the opposite effect.
Angiotensin II‐induced apoptosis in human endothelial cells is inhibited by adiponectin through restoration of the association between endothelial nitric oxide synthase and heat shock protein 90
Authors: Lin Lian-Yu , Lin Chien-Yu , Su Ta-Chen , Liau Chiau-Suong
Published: August 2004

Adiponectin can protect vessels from injury by promoting the activity of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) with increased nitric oxide production. Recently, it was demonstrated that eNOS activity is highly regulated by heat shock protein 90 (HSP90). We tested the hypothesis that adiponectin can prevent endothelial cell injury produced by angiotensin II through promotion of the association between eNOS and HSP90. Cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with angiotensin II (2 μM) to induce apoptosis. In the presence of globular adiponectin, apoptosis was inhibited in a dose–response manner. Angiotensin II‐induced apoptosis was also inhibited by treatment with an NO donor and by combined treatment with both angiotensin II type 1 and type 2 receptor blockers. Western blotting and immunoprecipitation of the lysates from the treated cells showed that globular adiponectin could restore the association between eNOS and HSP90 and enhance the phosphorylation of eNOS. In conclusion, angiotensin II‐induced human endothelial cell apoptosis can be prevented by adiponectin through promotion and stabilization of the association between eNOS and HSP90.
Nuclear phosphoproteins HMGA and their relationship with chromatin structure and cancer
Authors: Sgarra Riccardo , Rustighi Alessandra , Tessari Michela A. , Di Bernardo Julie , Altamura Sandro , Fusco Alfredo , Manfioletti Guidalberto , Giancotti Vincenzo
Published: August 2004

The structural characteristics of the three nuclear phosphoproteins of the high mobility group A family are outlined and related to their participation in chromatin structure alteration in many biological processes such as gene expression, neoplastic transformation, differentiation, and apoptosis. The elevated expression of these proteins in tumor cells and their post‐translational modifications, such as phosphorylation, acetylation and methylation, are discussed and suggested as suitable targets for cancer chemotherapy.
Facilitation of proteasomal degradation of p27Kip1 by N‐terminal cleavage and their sequence requirements
Authors: Hirano Katsuya , Ihara Eikichi , Hirano Mayumi , Nishimura Junji , Nawata Hajime , Kanaide Hideo
Published: August 2004

The sequence requirement for N‐terminal cleavage and the proteasomal degradation of p27Kip1 and their relationship was investigated. Residues 5–8 were required for the cleavage and the mutation of S10 to E inhibited the cleavage. The C‐terminal PEST sequence was necessary for the degradation and residue R165 was found to play an important role in the degradation. The inhibition of the cleavage by deleting residues 5–8 inhibited the degradation, while the fragment mimicking the cleavage product accelerated the degradation. Both the cleavage and degradation demonstrated a similar sensitivity toward proteasome inhibitors and ATP depletion. These two processes are thus suggested to be tightly linked and sequential.
Evaluation of metal‐conjugated compounds as inhibitors of 3CL protease of SARS‐CoV
Authors: Hsu John T.-A. , Kuo Chih-Jung , Hsieh Hsing-Pang , Wang Yeau-Ching , Huang Kuo-Kuei , Lin Coney P.-C. , Huang Ping-Fang , Chen Xin , Liang Po-Huang
Published: August 2004

3C‐like (3CL) protease is essential for the life cycle of severe acute respiratory syndrome‐coronavirus (SARS‐CoV) and therefore represents a key anti‐viral target. A compound library consisting of 960 commercially available drugs and biologically active substances was screened for inhibition of SARS‐CoV 3CL protease. Potent inhibition was achieved using the mercury‐containing compounds thimerosal and phenylmercuric acetate, as well as hexachlorophene. As well, 1–10 μM of each compound inhibited viral replication in Vero E6 cell culture. Detailed mechanism studies using a fluorescence‐based protease assay demonstrated that the three compounds acted as competitive inhibitors (K
i=0.7, 2.4, and 13.7 μM for phenylmercuric acetate, thimerosal, and hexachlorophene, respectively). A panel of metal ions including Zn2+ and its conjugates were then evaluated for their anti‐3CL protease activities. Inhibition was more pronounced using a zinc‐conjugated compound (1‐hydroxypyridine‐2‐thione zinc; M) than using the ion alone (M).
The Effect of Support Ratio on Infants' Perception of Illusory Contours
Authors: Otsuka Yumiko , Kanazawa So , Yamaguchi Masami K
Published: August 2004

We used a preferential looking technique to investigate the effect of support ratio (a ratio of the physically specified contours to the total edge length) on the perception of Kanizsa illusory contours in infants aged 3–8 months. Previous work has shown that for adult observers the illusory-contour strength increases proportionally with the support ratio. When the support ratio was relatively high (66%), infants preferred illusory contours to non-illusory figures by 3–4 months of age (experiment 1). In contrast, only infants 7–8 months old showed this preference for illusory contours when the support ratio was reduced to 37% (experiment 3). Further, infants showed no preference for an outline version of the illusory-contour figure, which produced no illusory contours (experiment 2). This result confirms that the infants' preference reflects their perception of illusory contours. Our results show that (i) illusory-contour perception emerges at around 3–4 months of age, but (ii) that this ability is very limited until around 7–8 months of age.
Creating Noisy Stimuli
Authors: Phillips Flip
Published: August 2004

A method for creating a variety of pseudo-random ‘noisy’ stimuli that possess several useful statistical and phenomenal features for psychophysical experimentation is outlined. These stimuli are derived from a pseudo-periodic function known as multidimensional noise. This class of function has the desirable property that it is periodic, defined on a fixed domain, is roughly symmetric, and is stochastic, yet consistent and repeatable. The stimuli that can be created from these functions have a controllable amount of complexity and self-similarity properties that are further useful when generating naturalistic looking objects and surfaces for investigation. The paper addresses the creation and manipulation of stimuli with the use of noise, including an overview of this particular implementation. Stimuli derived from these procedures have been used successfully in several shape and surface perception experiments and are presented here for use by others and further discussion as to their utility.
Identification and characterization of phosphoseryl-tRNA
[Ser]Sec
kinase
Authors: Carlson Bradley A. , Xu Xue-Ming , Kryukov Gregory V. , Rao Mahadev , Berry Marla J. , Gladyshev Vadim N. , Hatfield Dolph L.
Published: August 2004

In 1970, a kinase activity that phosphorylated a minor species of seryl-tRNA to form phosphoseryl-tRNA was found in rooster liver [Maenpaa, P. H. & Bernfield, M. R. (1970)
Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA
67, 688–695], and a minor seryl-tRNA that decoded the nonsense UGA was detected in bovine liver. The phosphoseryl-tRNA and the minor UGA-decoding seryl-tRNA were subsequently identified as selenocysteine (Sec) tRNA
[Ser]Sec
, but the kinase activity remained elusive. Herein, by using a comparative genomics approach that searched completely sequenced archaeal genomes for a kinase-like protein with a pattern of occurrence similar to that of components of Sec insertion machinery, we detected a candidate gene for mammalian phosphoseryl-tRNA
[Ser]Sec
kinase (
pstk
). Mouse
pstk
was cloned, and the gene product (PSTK) was expressed and characterized. PSTK specifically phosphorylated the seryl moiety on seryl-tRNA
[Ser]Sec
and, in addition, had a requirement for ATP and Mg
2+
. Proteins with homology to mammalian PSTK occur in
Drosophila
,
Caenorhabditis elegans
,
Methanopyrus kandleri
, and
Methanococcus jannaschii
, suggesting a conservation of its function across archaea and eukaryotes that synthesize selenoproteins and the absence of this function in bacteria, plants, and yeast. The fact that PSTK has been highly conserved in evolution suggests that it plays an important role in selenoprotein biosynthesis and/or regulation.
Orthogonal analysis of C/EBPβ targets
in vivo
during liver proliferation
Authors: Friedman Joshua R. , Larris Brian , Le Phillip P. , Peiris T. Harshani , Arsenlis Athanasios , Schug Jonathan , Tobias John W. , Kaestner Klaus H. , Greenbaum Linda E.
Published: August 2004

CCAAT enhancer-binding protein β (C/EBPβ), a basic-leucine zipper transcription factor, is an important effector of signals in physiologic growth and cancer. The identification of direct C/EBPβ targets
in vivo
has been limited by functional compensation by other C/EBP family proteins and the low stringency of the consensus sequence. Here we use the combined power of expression profiling and high-throughput chromatin immunoprecipitation to identify direct and biologically relevant targets of C/EBPβ. We identified 25 potential C/EBPβ targets, of which 88% of those tested were confirmed as
in vivo
C/EBPβ-binding sites. Six of these genes also displayed differential expression in C/EBPβ
–/–
livers. Computational analysis revealed that bona fide C/EBPβ target genes can be distinguished by the presence of binding motifs for specific additional transcription factors in the vicinity of the C/EBPβ site. This approach is generally applicable to the discovery of direct, biologically relevant targets of mammalian transcription factors.
Crystal structure of the
S
-adenosylmethionine-dependent enzyme MoaA and its implications for molybdenum cofactor deficiency in humans
Authors: Hänzelmann Petra , Schindelin Hermann
Published: August 2004

The MoaA and MoaC proteins catalyze the first step during molybdenum cofactor biosynthesis, the conversion of a guanosine derivative to precursor Z. MoaA belongs to the
S
-adenosylmethionine (SAM)-dependent radical enzyme superfamily, members of which catalyze the formation of protein and/or substrate radicals by reductive cleavage of SAM by a [4Fe–4S] cluster. A defined
in vitro
system is described, which generates precursor Z and led to the identification of 5′-GTP as the substrate. The structures of MoaA in the apo-state (2.8 Å) and in complex with SAM (2.2 Å) provide valuable insights into its mechanism and help to define the defects caused by mutations in the human ortholog of MoaA that lead to molybdenum cofactor deficiency, a usually fatal disease accompanied by severe neurological symptoms. The central core of each subunit of the MoaA dimer is an incomplete triosephosphate isomerase barrel formed by the N-terminal part of the protein, which contains the [4Fe–4S] cluster typical for SAM-dependent radical enzymes. SAM is the fourth ligand to the cluster and binds to its unique Fe as an N/O chelate. The lateral opening of the incomplete triosephosphate isomerase barrel is covered by the C-terminal part of the protein containing an additional [4Fe–4S] cluster, which is unique to MoaA proteins. Both FeS clusters are separated by ≈17 Å, with a large active site pocket between. The noncysteinyl-ligated unique Fe site of the C-terminal [4Fe–4S] cluster is proposed to be involved in the binding and activation of 5′-GTP.
Gender Differences in Response to Sertraline Pharmacotherapy in Type A Alcohol Dependence
Authors: Pettinati Helen M. , Dundon William , Lipkin Craig
Published: August 2004

We previously established that Babor Type A “lower‐risk / severity” alcoholics (n = 55) had better treatment response to fourteen weeks of sertraline (200 mg/ day) than placebo, a finding not present for Type B “higher‐risk /severity” alcoholics (n = 45). This exploratory study extended these results by examining the original sample for gender differences in response to sertraline pharmacotherapy. Type A alcoholic men, but not Type A alcoholic women, had consistently better outcomes with sertraline compared to placebo on several common drinking measures: time to relapse, days drinking, days drinking heavily, drinks per drinking day, and number of those continually abstinent. There were no significant differences in drinking with sertraline compared to placebo in Type B alcoholic men or women.
Methamphetamine Abstinence Syndrome: Preliminary Findings
Authors: Newton Thomas F. , Kalechstein Ari D. , Duran Sonia , Vansluis Nicolette , Ling Walter
Published: August 2004

Retrospective reports suggest that chronic use of methamphetamine is associated with a prolonged abstinence syndrome; however, there are no prospective studies confirming this. Nineteen non‐treatment‐seeking methamphetamine‐dependent volunteers participated in a study of mood during initial abstinence. Moderate levels of depression were reported during the first several days of abstinence, with minimal levels reported thereafter. The most prominent symptoms were anhedonia, irritability, and poor concentration. The abstinence syndrome associated with methamphetamine dependence varied considerably in intensity and duration but generally was mild and resolved quickly for most individuals.
Improving Treatment Services for Substance Abusers with Comorbid Depression
Authors: Womack Sharon , Compton Wilson M. , Dennis Michael , McCormick Scott , Fraser James , Horton Joseph C. , Spitznagel Edward L. , Cottler Linda B.
Published: August 2004

Early identification of patients with comorbid depression and their subsequent enrollment in an enhanced psychiatric case management (PCM) intervention were examined as an effective way to engage depressed substance abuse patients into psychiatric treatment. Depression was screened using the Global Appraisal of Individual Needs (GAIN) and a DSM‐IV checklist. Patients positive on both evaluations were assigned to PCM (n = 10) or to no case management, or treatment as usual (TAU) (n = 10). An examination of outcomes at six weeks indicated that PCM services are feasible and appear to be effective in encouraging use of psychiatric referral by depressed substance abusers.
The Unfolded Protein Response Regulates Glutamate Receptor Export from the Endoplasmic Reticulum
Authors: Shim Jaegal , Umemura Tohru , Nothstein Erika , Rongo Christopher
Published: August 2004

α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA)-type glutamate receptors mediate the majority of excitatory signaling in the CNS, and the functional properties and subcellular fate of these receptors depend on receptor subunit composition. Subunit assembly is thought to occur in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), although we are just beginning to understand the underlying mechanism. Here we examine the trafficking of Caenorhabditis elegans glutamate receptors through the ER. Our data indicate that neurons require signaling by the unfolded protein response (UPR) to move GLR-1, GLR-2, and GLR-5 subunits out of the ER and through the secretory pathway. In contrast, other neuronal transmembrane proteins do not require UPR signaling for ER exit. The requirement for the UPR pathway is cell type and age dependent: impairment for receptor trafficking increases as animals age and does not occur in all neurons. Expression of XBP-1, a component of the UPR pathway, is elevated in neurons during development. Our results suggest that UPR signaling is a critical step in neural function that is needed for glutamate receptor assembly and secretion.
Comparative Efficacy of Pre‐feeding, Post‐feeding and Combined Pre‐ and Post‐feeding of Two Microdoses of a Potentized Homeopathic Drug, Mercurius Solubilis, in Ameliorating Genotoxic Effects Produced by Mercuric Chloride in Mice
Authors: Datta Swapna , Biswas Surjyo Jyoti , Khuda-Bukhsh Anisur Rahman
Published: August 2004

Mercury and its derivatives have become an alarming environmental problem, necessitating the search for effective antagonists, including homeopathic drugs, which are generally used in micro doses and are devoid of any palpable side‐effects. On the basis of homeopathic similia principle, two potencies of Mercurius solubilis (Merc Sol‐30 and Merc Sol‐200) were tested by three administrative modes, i.e. pre‐feeding, post‐feeding and combined pre‐ and post‐feeding, for their possible efficacy in ameliorating mercuric chloride‐induced genotoxicity in mice. Healthy mice, Mus musculus, were intraperitoneally injected with 0.06% solution of mercuric chloride at the rate of 1 ml/100 g of body weight, and assessed for genotoxic effects through conventional endpoints. i.e. chromosome aberrations, micronuclei, mitotic index and sperm head abnormality, keeping suitable controls. Mercuric chloride‐treated mice were divided into three sub‐groups, which were orally administered with the drug prior to, after and both prior to and after injection of mercuric chloride, and their genotoxic effects were analysed at specific intervals of fixation. Mercuric chloride treatment generally produced more chromosome aberations, micronuclei and sperm head anomaly in mice, but the mitotic index appeared to be slightly reduced. While chromosome aberations, micronuclei and sperm head anomaly were generally reduced in the drug‐fed series, the mitotic index showed an apparent increase. In most cases, the combined pre‐ and post‐feeding mode appeared to show the maximum amelioration, followed by post‐feeding and pre‐feeding, in that order. The amelioration by Merc Sol‐200 appeared to be slightly more pronounced. We conclude that potentized homeopathic drugs can serve as possible anti‐genotoxic agents against specific environmental mutagens, including toxic heavy metals.
Antiprotozoan and Antiviral Activities of Non‐Cytotoxic Truncated and Variant Analogues of Mussel Defensin
Authors: Roch Philippe , Beschin Alain , Bernard Eric
Published: August 2004

We previously reported the crucial role displayed by loop 3 of defensin isolated from the Mediterranean mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis, in antibacterial and antifungal activities. We now investigated antiprotozoan and antiviral activities of some previously reported fragments B, D, E, P and Q. Two fragments (D and P) efficiently killed Trypanosoma brucei (ID50 4–12 μM) and Leishmania major (ID50 12–45 μM) in a time/dose‐dependent manner. Killing of T. brucei started as early as 1 h after initiation of contact with fragment D and reached 55% mortality after 6 h. Killing was temperature dependent and a temperature of 4°C efficiently impaired the ability to kill T. brucei. Fragments bound to the entire external epithelium of T. brucei. Prevention of HIV‐1 infestation was obtained only with fragments P and Q at 20 μM. Even if fragment P was active on both targets, the specificity of fragments D and Q suggest that antiprotozoan and antiviral activities are mediated by different mechanisms. Truncated sequences of mussel defensin, including amino acid replacement to maintain 3D structure and increased positive net charge, also possess antiprotozoan and antiviral capabilities. New alternative and/or complementary antibiotics can be derived from the vast reservoir of natural antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) contained in marine invertebrates.
Comparison of Radical Scavenging Activity, Cytotoxic Effects and Apoptosis Induction in Human Melanoma Cells by Taiwanese Propolis from Different Sources
Authors: Chen Chia-Nan , Weng Meng-Shih , Wu Chia-Li , Lin Jen-Kun
Published: August 2004

Propolis is a sticky substance that is collected from plants by honeybees. We previously demonstrated that propolins A, B, C, D, E and F, isolated from Taiwanese propolis (TP), could effectively induce human melanoma cell apoptosis and were strong antioxidant agents. In this study, we evaluated TP for free radical scavenging activity by DPPH (1,2‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl). The phenolic concentrations were quantified by the Folin–Ciocalteu method. The apoptosis trigger activity in human melanoma cells was evaluated. TP contained a higher level of phenolic compounds and showed strong capability to scavenge free radicals. Additionally, TP1g, TP3, TP4 and TP7 exhibited a cytotoxic effect on human melanoma cells, with an IC50 of 2.3, 2.0, 3.3 and 3.3 μg/ml, respectively. Flow cytometric analysis for DNA fragmentation indicated that TP1g, TP2, TP3 and TP7 could induce apoptosis in human melanoma cells and there is a marked loss of cells from the G2/M phase of the cell cycle. To address the mechanism of the apoptosis effect of TP, we evaluated its effects on induction of apoptosis‐related proteins in human melanoma cells. The levels of procaspase‐3 and PARP [poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase] were markedly decreased. Furthermore, propolins A, B, C, D, E and F in TP were determined using HPLC. The results indicate that TP is a rich source of these compounds. The findings suggest that TP induces apoptosis in human melanoma cells due to its high level of propolins.
The secret to a fashion advantage is brand orientation
Authors: Brïdson Kerrie , Evans Jody
Published: August 2004

The purpose of this research was to develop a comprehensive measure of brand orientation and empirically examine whether a fashion retailer's brand orientation assists in explaining variations in its retail offer advantage over competitors. This study provides a conceptualisation and operationalisation of brand orientation within the context of fashion retailing. Four dimensions of brand orientation are introduced including distinctiveness, functionality, value adding and symbolic. The results suggest that the more brand oriented the fashion retailer, the greater its retail offer advantage over competitors. It concludes with new insights and suggestions for fashion retailers in driving greater differentiation and competitive advantage.
The Burberry business model: creating an international luxury fashion brand
Authors: Moore Christopher M. , Birtwistle Grete
Published: August 2004

The performance of the British fashion brand Burberry has been determined largely by the adoption of business models which, on occasion, have been detrimental to the company's performance. For the financial year ending 31 March 1998, Burberry saw its annual profits drop from £62m to £25m, leading financial analysts to describe it as “an outdated business with a fashion cachet of almost zero”. However, from 1997, at the instigation of a newly appointed chief executive, Rose Marie Bravo, Burberry has radically re‐aligned its business model and has enjoyed, as a result, significant improvements in its business performance. Drawing from extensive documentation that was published by Burberry in support of their initial public offering (IPO), this paper will provide a review of the history of Burberry; evaluate Burberry's re‐positioning strategy as defined by the firm in their IPO prospectus; and critically delineate Burberry's current business model.
Retail employment and disability
Authors: Jones Peter , Schmidt Ruth A.
Published: August 2004

The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 introduced a range of staged measures designed to end discrimination facing people with disabilities, including statutory rights in the areas of employment. Accounting for some 10 per cent of all jobs the UK, the retail sector is a major employer and, as such, has been presented with a series of challenges in the implementation of the act, including strategic as well as operational aspects, the incorporation of disability awareness at all levels of company culture and dissemination of best practice throughout the retail industry. This paper discusses the implications of the act for retailers and assesses a number of retailer responses.
A review of a multiple retailer's labour turnover
Authors: Hendrie James
Published: August 2004

There has been much research carried out into the topic of labour turnover over many years. Staff who are satisfied are more likely to stay working for a business. Research has also shown that there can be many reasons for dissatisfaction, and that they will vary in different situations. One of the main aims of this work was to carry out research into the causal effects of labour turnover at Livingston's. This was achieved in the form of a self‐completion postal questionnaire, which sought to measure staff opinions and attitudes, from a census of part‐time staff. The main drivers of turnover identified were: pay rates; lack of career development; hours of work; training; poor staff recognition; staff facilities; staffing levels; staff uniform; and communications.
Media transitions
Authors: Cass Kimberly , Lauer Thomas W.
Published: August 2004

This paper presents a framework for understanding the technological change and its impacts on environments where multiple versions of a technology exist simultaneously. Both orienting and limiting role of physical (skeumorph) and conceptual metaphors on the products, processes, and user experience in changing from a familiar functional implementation to the one employing new media is illustrated using examples showing the transition from wet photography to digital imagery and from surface mail to e‐mail. People use physical (skeumorph) and conceptual metaphors to orient themselves with new technology by understanding new functions in terms of earlier technological versions. Since new technology is adopted at varying rates and varying times, multiple versions exist at any given time. Sometimes expectations appropriate for earlier technological iterations obscure the challenges and possibilities presented by the new media implementation. This paper examines how new technologies challenge and are challenged by the contexts into which they are introduced. By understanding the function that physical (skeumorph) and conceptual metaphors play in facilitating technological change, we can become more conscious of the discontinuities between the new technological iteration and earlier implementations to gain deeper awareness about how “the new” functions differently and to help us engage new technology closer to its own terms and open up new possibilities for its use.
Designing for ease is designing for all
Authors: Destounis Panagiotis , Garofalakis John , Mavritsakis George , Rigou Maria , Sirmakessis Spiros , Tzimas Giannis
Published: August 2004

Aims to present the work done in the development of a simplified office suite for disabled and focus on the use of technology applied to the area of “designing for all”. The paper presents an overview of the state‐of‐the‐art in the design for all. It provides practical references to techniques used. The main scope of the paper is to explore the developed technology and give details for the adopted mechanisms. It provides information about designing and implementing software applications for disabled and present a case study for mentally disabled. The paper presents a system that can be used by a specific target group. For this reason, it should be used as reference point for this group, although several techniques can be used for other user categories. The paper is a very useful presentation of an actual system that has been designed and implemented to cover the needs of disabled, useful for interaction with designers and researchers in assistive technology, and it fulfils the need for demonstrative technology in the area of designing for all.
Personal characteristics as predictors of job satisfaction
Authors: Okpara John O.
Published: August 2004

The impact of information technology (IT) on society is tremendous. Globalization of trade, the emergence of information economies, and the growth of the Internet and other global communications networks have recast the role of information systems in managing global corporations. The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent to which personal characteristics such as gender, age, education, income, and experience predict IT managers' job satisfaction in Nigeria. A sample of 360 IT managers selected from business organizations in Nigeria were used for this research. The results of this study suggest that IT managers were satisfied with their job, co‐workers, and supervision, whereas they were dissatisfied with their pay and the promotion system. The results of regression analyses also showed that personal characteristics were significant predictors of job satisfaction.
An adjoint‐based design methodology for CFD problems
Authors: Soto Orlando , Löhner Rainald , Yang Chi
Published: August 2004

A complete CFD design methodology is presented. The main components of this methodology are a general edge‐based compressible/incompressible flow solver; a continuous adjoint formulation for the gradient computations; a steepest descent technique for the change of design variables; evaluation of the gradient of the discretized flow equations with respect to mesh by finite differences; a CAD‐free pseudo‐shell surface parametrization, allowing every point on the surface to be optimized to be used as a design parameter; and a level type scheme for the movement of the interior points. Several examples are included to demonstrate the methodology developed.
A new computational approach to microwave heating of two‐phase porous materials
Authors: Dinčov D.D. , Parrott K.A. , Pericleous K.A.
Published: August 2004

Computational results for the microwave heating of a porous material are presented in this paper. Combined finite difference time domain and finite volume methods were used to solve equations that describe the electromagnetic field and heat and mass transfer in porous media. The coupling between the two schemes is through a change in dielectric properties which were assumed to be dependent on both temperature and moisture content. The model was able to reflect the evolution of both temperature and moisture fields as well as energy penetration as the moisture in the porous medium evaporates. Moisture movement results from internal pressure gradients produced by the internal heating and phase change.
Linear stability of flow in a differentially heated cavity via large‐scale eigenvalue calculations
Authors: Burroughs Elizabeth A. , Romero Louis A. , Lehoucq Richard B. , Salinger Andrew G.
Published: August 2004

Locates the onset of oscillatory instability in the fluid flow inside a differentially heated cavity with aspect ratio 2 by computing a steady‐state and analyzing the stability of the system via eigenvalue approximation. Discusses the choice of parameters for the Cayley transformation so that the calculation of selected eigenvalues of the transformed system will reliably answer the question of stability. Also presents an argument that due to the symmetry of the problem, the first two unstable modes will have eigenvalues that are nearly identical, and the numerical experiments confirm this. Finally, locates a co‐dimension 2 bifurcation signifying where there is a switch in the mode of initial instability. The results were obtained using a parallel finite element CFD code (MPSalsa) along with an Arnoldi‐based eigensolver (ARPACK), a preconditioned Krylov method code for the necessary linear solves (Aztec), and a stability analysis library (LOCA).
External communities of practice and relational capital
Authors: Dewhurst Frank W. , Cegarra Navarro Juan G.
Published: August 2004

External communities of practice are groups formed by company clients and employees based on common interests, commitment, mutual trust and collaboration whose members regularly share knowledge and learning. This paper examines how external communities of practice contribute to the creation of relational capital through an empirical investigation of 139 small to medium‐sized enterprises in the Spanish optometry sector using structural equation modelling validated by factor analysis.
Intellectual capital in Egyptian software firms
Authors: Seleim Ahmed , Ashour Ahmed , Bontis Nick
Published: August 2004

The distribution of knowledge around the world varies significantly with developed countries possessing most of the world's current intellectual capital (IC) compared to developing countries. Most IC research has been conducted in a variety of international settings such as the UK, Scandinavia, Australia, Canada, Austria, Malaysia, the USA, and Ireland. However, no empirical research has been conducted at the organizational level in the field of IC in Arab countries. These nations are socially, economically, and culturally different from most countries in the aforementioned list. This study describes the IC in Egyptian software firms. The study's objective is to contribute to the IC theory development by building a measurement system in an unique context. This paper highlights the key IC indicators as reported by Egyptian CEOs. Ultimately, the resultant report provides them with a direction for building a strong knowledge base for future IC development.
Intellectual capital and new public management
Authors: Mouritsen Jan , Thorbjørnsen Stefan , Bukh Per N. , Johansen Mette R.
Published: August 2004

The paper reports on public sector organisations'/institutions' work to develop knowledge management and intellectual capital statements. Building on experiences collected during 2001‐2002 where 26 public sector institutions in Denmark sought to develop intellectual capital statements, this paper discusses their experiences and in particular, it addresses the role of intellectual capital in relation to the development of the new public management philosophy. It is suggested that these public sector organisations use intellectual capital activity to promote themselves as “businesses” with their own strategies and modes of operations. Intellectual capital helps these firms differentiate themselves and develop their own strategic approach to their mode of functioning by showing how they function as enterprises.
Reconciling the rigor‐relevance dilemma in intellectual capital research
Authors: Andriessen Daniel
Published: August 2004

This paper raises the issue of research methodology for intellectual capital and other types of management research by focusing on the dilemma of rigour versus relevance. The more traditional explanatory approach to research often leads to rigorous results that are not of much help to solve practical problems. This paper describes an alternative approach of practicing intellectual capital research as a design science. This approach is equally scientific but is able to develop management methods that helps to solve organisational problems. This paper shows strengths and weaknesses of both the approaches and concludes that combining both within the intellectual capital research community can help to reconcile the dilemma of rigour versus relevance.
The importance of brand equity to customer loyalty
Authors: Taylor Steven A. , Celuch Kevin , Goodwin Stephen
Published: August 2004

This study involved a nation‐wide sample of industrial customers of heavy equipment manufacturers. The results suggest that brand equity and trust are consistently the most important antecedents to both behavioral and attitudinal forms of customer loyalty. There is also evidence that the models underlying the formation of behavioral versus attitudinal forms of customer loyalty may vary across research settings. The results suggest that industrial equipment marketers may consider moving beyond a focus on satisfaction in relationship marketing strategies toward integrated strategies that foster brand equity and trust in their customer base as well.
Own labels choice criteria and perceived characteristics in Greece and Scotland: factors influencing the willingness to buy
Authors: Veloutsou Cleopatra , Gioulistanis Evangelos , Moutinho Luiz
Published: August 2004

The growth of own label brands of products offered by supermarket chains is changing the “rules of the game” when managing fast moving consumer good products. A lot is written on the development of these brands and the consumers' behaviour in regions where their use is widely spread, but not in other markets. This paper compared the importance of choice criteria when purchasing own label and national brands and the perceived characteristics of the products carrying store and manufacturer brands in two regions of the European Union where the development of own label brands is at a different stage, Greece and Scotland. The results indicate that own label and manufacturer brands have an overall different positioning; Greeks are less familiar with own label products and assess them somewhat differently than the Scots, while several own label related attributes may be good predictors of the loyalty to the supermarket.
Exploring consumer experiences with a service brand
Authors: O'Cass Aron , Grace Debra
Published: August 2004

The commercial importance of services has been realised in recent times and the importance of research to understand service brands and their meaning for consumers is a growing priority. This study focuses on consumer based perceptions of brand associations of a service brand, attitudes toward and intention to use the branded service via qualitative and quantitative methods. The results indicate a number of key dimensions that are important for consumers of services such as core service, experience with brand, self‐image congruency, feelings, servicescape and interpersonal service, publicity, advertising, price and brand. However, in this study country of origin and word of mouth were not significant. Largely, the findings indicated that service brand associations influence brand attitude and attitude and associations influence intention to use a service brand.
Do high prices signal high quality? A theoretical model and empirical results
Authors: Kalita Jukti K. , Jagpal Sharan , Lehmann Donald R.
Published: August 2004

This paper has three objectives. First, we develop an equilibrium pricing model in which consumers have incomplete information about both product qualities and prices. Specifically, manufacturers can use high prices to signal high quality to uninformed consumers. Furthermore, prices of any given brand can vary geographically across retail outlets. We show that previous models are special cases of our model. Specifically, the hedonic regression model assumes that consumers have full information about all product qualities and prices. Second, we propose a methodology for testing price‐signaling models. Third, we test our model using data from consumer reports for several consumer durable and nondurable products. The results show that firms use prices to signal quality, regardless of whether they market durable or nondurable products. The results do not support the popular theory that markets for experience goods are more efficient than those for search goods. Finally, our model outperforms the standard hedonic regression model for four of the five product categories analyzed.
The UK clothing industry
Authors: Jones R.M. , Hayes S.G.
Published: August 2004

To provide an opinion as to the demise or metamorphosis of the UK clothing industry within the wider European context. Recently conducted research, along with a range of pertinent published (1978‐2004) statistical data are used to inform the authors' viewpoint on the development of the UK clothing industry. The statistical evidence describing the change in import penetration, employment levels and the impact of the national minimum wage support the view that a new typology of the clothing industry is emerging from the ashes of a rapidly declined manufacturing base. Some of the detail of garment types is hidden by the SIC system. Conversely, at times, the very categories used appear to have little contemporary relevance. Three areas of concern would remain: first, that over time the cluster itself would lose its critical mass; second, that the cluster might collapse if the central core of manufacturing is hollowed out; and third, that over time some of the “knowledge based” tasks such as design and product development might themselves be subject to migration to lower‐cost locations. This paper contributes a carefully considered, and compiled, viewpoint from experienced observers of the UK clothing industry that augments the debate centred on the development of the EU clothing industry.
International competitive change and strategic behaviour of Italian textile‐apparel firms
Authors: Guercini Simone
Published: August 2004

In the 1990s the trend of textile and apparel manufacturing in Italy differed considerably from other European countries with high labour costs. The examination of the peculiar factors generating the Italian specificity represents the first aims of this paper, and will be discussed employing statistical sources concerning market performance, industrial organization and retail structure. A second aim, of no less central importance, is the evaluation of the strategic behaviour adopted by Italian textile and apparel firms in front of competitive change on international market. Results emerging from a secondary research are presented. The analysis proposed focuses mainly on strategic market positioning and integration between manufacturing firms of the textile‐apparel pipeline and clothing retail.