bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of Monoterpene Accumulation in Leaves of Peppermint
Authors: Gershenzon Jonathan , McConkey Marie E. , Croteau Rodney B.
Published: July 2002

Plants synthesize numerous classes of natural products that accumulate during development and are thought to function as constitutive defenses against herbivores and pathogens. However, little information is available about how the levels of such defenses are regulated. We measured the accumulation of monoterpenes, a model group of constitutive defenses, in peppermint (Mentha ×piperita L.) leaves and investigated several physiological processes that could regulate their accumulation: the rate of biosynthesis, the rate of metabolic loss, and the rate of volatilization. Monoterpene accumulation was found to be restricted to leaves of 12 to 20 d of age, the period of maximal leaf expansion. The rate of monoterpene biosynthesis determined by14CO2 incorporation was closely correlated with monoterpene accumulation, as determined by gas chromatographic analysis, and appeared to be the principal factor controlling the monoterpene level of peppermint leaves. No significant catabolic losses of monoterpenes were detected throughout leaf development, and monoterpene volatilization was found to occur at a very low rate, which, on a monthly basis, represented less than 1% of the total pool of stored monoterpenes. The composition of volatilized monoterpenes differed significantly from that of the total plant monoterpene pool, suggesting that these volatilized products may arise from a separate secretory system. With the demonstration that the rate of biosynthesis is the chief process that determines monoterpene accumulation in peppermint, efforts to improve production in this species can now focus on the genes, enzymes, and cell differentiation processes that regulate monoterpene biosynthesis.
Developmental Regulation of Monoterpene Biosynthesis in the Glandular Trichomes of Peppermint
Authors: McConkey Marie E. , Gershenzon Jonathan , Croteau Rodney B.
Published: July 2002

Monoterpene production in peppermint (Mentha ×piperita L.) glandular trichomes is determined by the rate of biosynthesis, as determined by 14CO2incorporation, and is restricted to leaves 12 to 20 d of age. Using oil glands isolated from peppermint leaves of different ages, in vitro assay of the eight sequential enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of the principal monoterpene (−)-menthol indicated that all but one biosynthetic enzyme had a very similar developmental profile. Activities were highest in leaves 12 to 20 d of age, with a sharp peak centered at 15 d. The exception, (−)-menthone reductase, the last enzyme of the pathway, exhibited a later peak of activity, which was centered at approximately 21 d. The correlation between in vitro enzyme activity and the rate of biosynthesis measured in vivo suggests that monoterpene formation is controlled mainly by the coordinately regulated activity of the relevant biosynthetic enzymes. Developmental immunoblotting of limonene synthase, which catalyzes the committed step of the pathway, demonstrated a direct correlation between enzyme activity and enzyme protein, suggesting that the dynamic time course for the remaining pathway enzyme activities also reflects the corresponding protein levels. RNA-blot analyses indicated that the genes encoding enzymes of the early pathway steps are transcriptionally activated in a coordinated fashion, with a time course superimposible with activity measurements and immunoblot data. These results demonstrating coincidental temporal changes in enzyme activities, enzyme protein level, and steady-state transcript abundances indicate that most of the monoterpene biosynthetic enzymes in peppermint are developmentally regulated at the level of gene expression.
Toward a Functional Catalog of the Plant Genome. A Survey of Genes for Lipid Biosynthesis
Authors: Mekhedov Sergei , de Ilárduya Oskar Martı́nez , Ohlrogge John
Published: July 2002

Public databases now include vast amounts of recently acquired DNA sequences that are only partially annotated and, furthermore, are often annotated by automated methods that are subject to errors. Maximum information value of these databases can be derived only by further detailed analyses that frequently require careful examination of records in the context of biological functions. In this study we present an example of such an analysis focused on plant glycerolipid synthesis. Public databases were searched for sequences corresponding to 65 plant polypeptides involved in lipid metabolism. Comprehensive search results and analysis of genes, cDNAs and expressed sequence tags (ESTs) are available online (http://www.canr.msu.edu/lgc). Multiple alignments provided a method to estimate the number of genes in gene families. Further analysis of sequences allowed us to tentatively identify several previously undescribed genes in Arabidopsis. For example, two genomic sequences were identified as candidates for the palmitate-specific monogalactosyldiacylglycerol desaturase (FAD5). A candidate genomic sequence for 3-ketoacyl-acyl-carrier protein (ACP) synthase involved in mitochondrial fatty acid biosynthesis was also identified. Biotin carboxyl carrier protein (BCCP) in Arabidopsis is encoded by at least two genes, but the most abundant BCCP transcript so far has not been characterized. The large number (>165,000) of plant ESTs also provides an opportunity to perform “digital northern” comparisons of gene expression levels across many genes. EST abundance in general correlated with biochemical and flux characteristics of the enzymes in Arabidopsis leaf tissue. In a few cases, statistically significant differences in EST abundance levels were observed for enzymes that catalyze similar reactions in fatty acid metabolism. For example, ESTs for the FatB acyl-ACP thioesterase occur 21 times compared with 7 times for FatA acyl-ACP thioesterase, although flux through the FatA reaction is several times higher than through FatB. Such comparisons may provide initial clues toward previously undescribed regulatory phenomena. The abundance of ESTs for ACP compared with that of stearoyl-ACP desaturase and FatB acyl-ACP thioesterase suggests that concentrations of some enzymes of fatty acid synthesis may be higher than their acyl-ACP substrates.
Hypersensitivity of an Arabidopsis Sugar Signaling Mutant toward Exogenous Proline Application
Authors: Hellmann Hanjo , Funck Dietmar , Rentsch Doris , Frommer Wolf B.
Published: July 2002

In transgenic Arabidopsis a patatin class I promoter from potato is regulated by sugars and proline (Pro), thus integrating signals derived from carbon and nitrogen metabolism. In both cases a signaling cascade involving protein phosphatases is involved in induction. Other endogenous genes are also regulated by both Pro and carbohydrates. Chalcone synthase (CHS) gene expression is induced by both, whereas the Pro biosynthetic Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthetase (P5CS) is induced by high Suc concentrations but repressed by Pro, and Pro dehydrogenase (ProDH) is inversely regulated. The mutantrsr1-1, impaired in sugar dependent induction of the patatin promoter, is hypersensitive to low levels of external Pro and develops autofluorescence and necroses. Toxicity of Pro can be ameliorated by salt stress and exogenously supplied metabolizable carbohydrates. The rsr1-1 mutant shows a reduced response regarding sugar induction of CHS andP5CS expression. ProDH expression is de-repressed in the mutant but still down-regulated by sugar. Pro toxicity seems to be mediated by the degradation intermediate Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate. Induction of the patatin promoter by carbohydrates and Pro, together with the Pro hypersensitivity of the mutant rsr1-1, demonstrate a new link between carbon/nitrogen and stress responses.
Purification and Characterization of a Membrane-Associated 48-Kilodalton Phospholipase A2 in Leaves of Broad Bean
Authors: Jung Kwang Mook , Kim Dae Kyong
Published: July 2002

Several lines of evidence indicate that phospholipase A2 (PLA2) plays a crucial role in plant cellular responses through production of linolenic acid, the precursor of jasmonic acid, from membrane phospholipids. Here we report the purification and characterization of a 48-kD PLA2 from the membrane fractions of leaves of broad bean (Vicia faba). The plant PLA2 was purified to near homogeneity by sequential column chromatographies from the membrane extracts. The purified 48-kD protein migrated as a single band on a SDS-PAGE gel and its density correlated with the PLA2 activity. It was further confirmed that this 48-kD protein is the PLA2enzyme based on immunoprecipitating the activity with a monoclonal antibody against it and purifying the enzyme to homogeneity with the antibody affinity column. The purified plant PLA2 preferred 2-linolenoyl-sn-glycerol-3-phosphocholine (GPC) to 2-linoleoyl-GPC, 2-palmitoyl-GPC and 2-arachidonyl-GPC as substrates with a pH optimum at pH 7.0 to 8.0. The plant PLA2 was activated by calmodulin and inhibited by pretreatment of 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraynoic acid known as an inhibitor of mammalian PLA2s. The enzyme was characterized as a Ca2+-independent PLA2 different from mammalian PLA2s. This membrane-associated and Ca2+-independent PLA2 is suggested to play an important role in the release of linolenic acid, the precursor of jasmonic acid, through a signal transduction pathway.
Glucose and Disaccharide-Sensing Mechanisms Modulate the Expression of α-amylase in Barley Embryos
Authors: Loreti Elena , Alpi Amedeo , Perata Pierdomenico
Published: July 2002

The aim of this study was to investigate the sugar-sensing processes modulating the expression ofα-amylase in barley (Hordeum vulgaris L. var Himalaya) embryos. The results highlight the existence of independent glucose (Glc) and disaccharides sensing. Glc treatment destabilizes the α-amylase mRNA. Non-metabolizable disaccharides repress α-amylaseinduction, but have no effects on transcript stability. Structure-function analysis indicates that a fructose (Fru) moiety is needed for disaccharide sensing. Lactulose (β-galactose [Gal][1→4]Fru), palatinose (Glc[1→6]Fru), and turanose (Glc[1→3]Fru) are not metabolized but repressα-amylase. Disrupting the fructosyl moiety of lactulose and palatinose, or replacing the Fru moiety of β-Gal[1→4]Fru with Glc or Gal results in molecules unable to repress α-amylase. Comparison of the molecular requirements for sucrose transport with those for disaccharide sensing suggests that these sugars are perceived possibly at the plasma membrane level independently from sucrose transport.
Photodamage of the Photosynthetic Apparatus and Its Dependence on the Leaf Developmental Stage in the npq1 Arabidopsis Mutant Deficient in the Xanthophyll Cycle Enzyme Violaxanthin De-epoxidase
Authors: Havaux Michel , Bonfils Jean-Paul , Lütz Cornelius , Niyogi Krishna K.
Published: July 2002

The npq1 Arabidopsis mutant is deficient in the violaxanthin de-epoxidase enzyme that converts violaxanthin to zeaxanthin in excess light (xanthophyll cycle). We have compared the behavior of mature leaves (ML) and developing leaves of the mutant and the wild type in various light environments. Thermoluminescence measurements indicated that high photon flux densities (>500 μmol m−2 s−1) promoted oxidative stress in the chloroplasts of npq1 ML, which was associated with a loss of chlorophyll and an inhibition of the photochemical activity. Illuminating leaf discs in the presence of eosin, a generator of singlet oxygen, brought about pronounced lipid peroxidation innpq1 ML but not in wild-type leaves. No such effects were seen in young leaves (YL) of npq1, which were quite tolerant to strong light and eosin-induced singlet oxygen. Non-photochemical energy quenching was strongly inhibited innpq1 YL and ML and was not improved with high-light acclimation. Our results confirm that the xanthophyll cycle protects chloroplasts from photooxidation by a mechanism distinct from non-photochemical energy quenching and they reveal that the absence of xanthophyll cycle can be compensated by other protective mechanisms.npq1 YL were observed to accumulate considerable amounts of vitamin E during photoacclimation, suggesting that this lipophilic antioxidant could be involved in the high phototolerance of those leaves.
Differential Subcellular Localization and Expression of ATP Sulfurylase and 5′-Adenylylsulfate Reductase during Ontogenesis of Arabidopsis Leaves Indicates That Cytosolic and Plastid Forms of ATP Sulfurylase May Have Specialized Functions
Authors: Rotte Carmen , Leustek Thomas
Published: July 2002

ATP sulfurylase and 5′-adenylylsulfate (APS) reductase catalyze two reactions in the sulfate assimilation pathway. Cell fractionation of Arabidopsis leaves revealed that ATP sulfurylase isoenzymes exist in the chloroplast and the cytosol, whereas APS reductase is localized exclusively in chloroplasts. During development of Arabidopsis plants the total activity of ATP sulfurylase and APS reductase declines by 3-fold in leaves. The decline in APS reductase can be attributed to a reduction of enzyme during aging of individual leaves, the highest activity occurring in the youngest leaves and the lowest in fully expanded leaves. By contrast, total ATP sulfurylase activity declines proportionally in all the leaves. The distinct behavior of ATP sulfurylase can be attributed to reciprocal expression of the chloroplast and cytosolic isoenzymes. The chloroplast form, representing the more abundant isoenzyme, declines in parallel with APS reductase during aging; however, the cytosolic form increases over the same period. In total, the results suggest that cytosolic ATP sulfurylase plays a specialized function that is probably unrelated to sulfate reduction. A plausible function could be in generating APS for sulfation reactions.
Oxygen Regulation of a Nodule-Located Carbonic Anhydrase in Alfalfa
Authors: Gálvez Susana , Hirsch Ann M. , Wycoff Keith L. , Hunt Stephen , Layzell David B. , Kondorosi Adam , Crespi Martin
Published: July 2002

Control of the permeability to oxygen is critical for the function of symbiotic nitrogen fixation in legume nodules. The inner cortex (IC) seems to be a primary site for this regulation. In alfalfa (Medicago sativa) nodules, expression of theMsca1 gene encoding a carbonic anhydrase (CA) was previously found to be restricted to the IC. We have now raised antibodies against recombinant Msca1 protein and used them, together with antibodies raised against potato leaf CA, to demonstrate the presence of two forms of CA in mature nodules. Each antibody recognizes a different CA isoform in nodule tissues. Immunolocalization revealed that leaf-related CAs were localized primarily in the nitrogen-fixing zone, whereas the Msca1protein was restricted exclusively to the IC region, in indeterminate and determinate nodules. In alfalfa nodules grown at various O2 concentrations, an inverse correlation was observed between the external oxygen pressure and Msca1 protein content in the IC, the site of the putative diffusion barrier. ThusMsca1 is a molecular target of physiological processes occurring in the IC cells involved in gas exchange in the nodule.
Microarray Analysis of Developing Arabidopsis Seeds
Authors: Girke Thomas , Todd Jim , Ruuska Sari , White Joe , Benning Christoph , Ohlrogge John
Published: July 2002

To provide a broad analysis of gene expression in developing Arabidopsis seeds, microarrays have been produced that display approximately 2,600 seed-expressed genes. DNA for genes spotted on the arrays were selected from >10,000 clones partially sequenced from a cDNA library of developing seeds. Based on a series of controls, sensitivity of the arrays was estimated at one to two copies of mRNA per cell and cross hybridization was estimated to occur if closely related genes have >70% to 80% sequence identity. These arrays have been hybridized in a series of experiments with probes derived from seeds, leaves, and roots of Arabidopsis. Analysis of expression ratios between the different tissues has allowed the tissue-specific expression patterns of many hundreds of genes to be described for the first time. Approximately 25% of the 2,600 genes were expressed at ratios ≥ 2-fold higher in seeds than leaves or roots and 10% at ratios ≥ 10. Included in this list are a large number of proteins of unknown function, and potential regulatory factors such as protein kinases, phosphatases, and transcription factors. The Arabidopsis arrays were also found to be useful for transcriptional profiling of mRNA isolated from developing oilseed rape (Brassica napus) seeds and expression patterns correlated well between the two species.
Arabidopsis RopGAPs Are a Novel Family of Rho GTPase-Activating Proteins that Require the Cdc42/Rac-Interactive Binding Motif for Rop-Specific GTPase Stimulation
Authors: Wu Guang , Li Hai , Yang Zhenbiao
Published: July 2002

The plant-specific Rop subfamily of Rho GTPases, most closely related to the mammalian Cdc42 and Rac GTPases, plays an important role in the regulation of calcium-dependent pollen tube growth, H2O2-mediated cell death, and many other processes in plants. In a search for Rop interactors using the two-hybrid method, we identified a family of Rho GTPase-activating proteins (GAP) from Arabidopsis, termed RopGAPs. In addition to a GAP catalytic domain, RopGAPs contain a Cdc42/Rac-interactive binding (CRIB) motif known to allow Cdc42/Rac effector proteins to bind activated Cdc42/Rac. This novel combination of a GAP domain with a CRIB motif is widespread in higher plants and is unique to the regulation of the Rop GTPase. A critical role for CRIB in the regulation of in vitro RopGAP activity was demonstrated using point and deletion mutations. Both types of mutants have drastically reduced capacities to stimulate the intrinsic Rop GTPase activity and to bind Rop. Furthermore, RopGAPs preferentially stimulate the GTPase activity of Rop, but not Cdc42 in a CRIB-dependent manner. In vitro binding assays show that the RopGAP CRIB domain interacts with GTP- and GDP-bound forms of Rop, as well as the transitional state of Rop mimicked by aluminum fluoride. The CRIB domain also promotes the association of the GAP domain with the GDP-bound Rop, as does aluminum fluoride. These results reveal a novel CRIB-dependent mechanism for the regulation of the plant-specific family of Rho GAPs. We propose that the CRIB domain facilitates the formation of or enhanced GAP-mediated stabilization of the transitional state of the Rop GTPase.
The ACA4 Gene of Arabidopsis Encodes a Vacuolar Membrane Calcium Pump That Improves Salt Tolerance in Yeast
Authors: Geisler Markus , Frangne Nathalie , Gomès Eric , Martinoia Enrico , Palmgren Michael G.
Published: July 2002

Several lines of evidence suggest that regulation of intracellular Ca2+ levels is crucial for adaptation of plants to environmental stress. We have cloned and characterized Arabidopsis auto-inhibited Ca2+-ATPase, isoform 4 (ACA4), a calmodulin-regulated Ca2+-ATPase. Confocal laser scanning data of a green fluorescent protein-tagged version of ACA4 as well as western-blot analysis of microsomal fractions obtained from two-phase partitioning and Suc density gradient centrifugation suggest that ACA4 is localized to small vacuoles. The N terminus of ACA4 contains an auto-inhibitory domain with a binding site for calmodulin as demonstrated through calmodulin-binding studies and complementation experiments using the calcium transport yeast mutant K616. ACA4 and PMC1, the yeast vacuolar Ca2+-ATPase, conferred protection against osmotic stress such as high NaCl, KCl, and mannitol when expressed in the K616 strain. An N-terminally modified form of ACA4 specifically conferred increased NaCl tolerance, whereas full-length ATPase had less effect.
Evidence for Symplastic Phloem Unloading in Sink Leaves of Barley
Authors: Haupt Sophie , Duncan George H. , Holzberg Steve , Oparka Karl J.
Published: July 2002

The pathway of phloem unloading in sink barley (Hordeum vulgare) leaves was studied using a combination of electron microscopy, carboxyfluorescein transport, and systemic movement of barley stripe mosaic virus expressing the green fluorescent protein. Studies of plasmodesmatal frequencies between the phloem and mesophyll indicated a symplastic sieve element- (SE) unloading pathway involving thick-walled and thin-walled SEs. Phloem-translocated carboxyfluorescein was unloaded rapidly from major longitudinal veins and entered the mesophyll cells of sink leaves. Unloading was “patchy” along the length of a vein, indicating that sieve element unloading may be discontinuous along a single vascular bundle. This pattern was mirrored precisely by the unloading of barley stripe mosaic virus expressing the green fluorescent protein. Transverse veins were not utilized in the unloading process. The data collectively indicate a symplastic mechanism of SE unloading in the sink barley leaf.
A Role for Brassinosteroids in Germination in Arabidopsis
Authors: Steber Camille M. , McCourt Peter
Published: July 2002

This paper presents evidence that plant brassinosteroid (BR) hormones play a role in promoting germination. It has long been recognized that seed dormancy and germination are regulated by the plant hormones abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellin (GA). These two hormones act antagonistically with each other. ABA induces seed dormancy in maturing embryos and inhibits germination of seeds. GA breaks seed dormancy and promotes germination. Severe mutations in GA biosynthetic genes in Arabidopsis, such as ga1-3, result in a requirement for GA application to germinate. Whereas previous work has shown that BRs play a critical role in controlling cell elongation, cell division, and skotomorphogenesis, no germination phenotypes have been reported in BR mutants. We show that BR rescues the germination phenotype of severe GA biosynthetic mutants and of the GA-insensitive mutant sleepy1. This result shows that BR stimulates germination and raises the possibility that BR is needed for normal germination. If true, we would expect to detect a germination phenotype in BR mutants. We found that BR mutants exhibit a germination phenotype in the presence of ABA. Germination of both the BR biosynthetic mutantdet2-1 and the BR-insensitive mutantbri1-1 is more strongly inhibited by ABA than is germination of wild type. Thus, the BR signal is needed to overcome inhibition of germination by ABA. Taken together, these results point to a role for BRs in stimulating germination.
Regulation of Protein Degradation and Protease Expression by Mannose in Maize Root Tips. Pi Sequestration by Mannose May Hinder the Study of Its Signaling Properties
Authors: Brouquisse Renaud , Evrard Adeline , Rolin Dominique , Raymond Philippe , Roby Claude
Published: July 2002

The effects of mannose (Man) and glucose (Glc) on central metabolism, proteolysis, and expression of the root starvation-induced protease (RSIP; F. James, R. Brouquisse, C. Suire, A. Pradet, P. Raymond [1996] Biochem J 320: 283–292) were investigated in maize (Zea mays L. cv DEA) root tips. Changes in metabolite concentrations (sugars, ester-phosphates, adenine nucleotides, and amino acids) were monitored using in vivo and in vitro 13C- and 31P-NMR spectroscopy, in parallel with the changes in respiration rates, protein contents, proteolytic activities, and RSIP amounts. The inhibition of proteolysis, the decrease in proteolytic activities, and the repression of RSIP expression triggered by Man, at concentrations usually used to study sugar signaling (2 and 10 mm), were found to be related to a drop of energy metabolism, primarily due to a Man-induced Pi sequestration. However, when supplied at low concentration (2 mm) and with the adequate phosphate concentration (30 mm), energy metabolism was restored and Man repressed proteolysis similarly to Glc, when provided at the same concentration. These results indicate that Man should be used with caution as a Glc analog to study signalization by sugars in plants because possible signaling effects may be hindered by Pi sequestration.
Binding Site for Chitin Oligosaccharides in the Soybean Plasma Membrane
Authors: Day R. Bradley , Okada Mitsuo , Ito Yuki , Tsukada Koji , Zaghouani Habib , Shibuya Naoto , Stacey Gary
Published: July 2002

Affinity cross-linking of the plasma membrane fraction to an125I-labeled chitin oligosaccharide led to the identification and characterization of an 85-kD, chitin binding protein in plasma membrane-enriched fractions from both suspension-cultured soybean cells and root tissue. Inhibition analysis indicated a binding preference for larger (i.e. degrees of polymerization = 8)N-acetylated chitin molecules with a 50% inhibition of initial activity value of approximately 50 nm.N-Acetyl-glucosamine and chitobiose showed no inhibitory effects at concentrations as high as 250 μm. It is noteworthy that the major lipo-chitin oligosaccharide Nod signal produced by Bradyrhizobium japonicum was also shown to be a competitive inhibitor of ligand binding. However, the binding site appeared to recognize the chitin portion of the Nod signal, and it is unlikely that this binding activity represents a specific Nod signal receptor. Chitooligosaccharide specificity for induction of medium alkalinization and the generation of reactive oxygen in suspension-cultured cells paralleled the binding activity. Taken together, the presence of the chitin binding protein in the plasma membrane fraction and the specificity and induction of a biological response upon ligand binding suggest a role for the protein as an initial response mechanism for chitin perception in soybean (Glycine max).
Older people and food: independence, locality and diet
Authors: McKie Linda
Published: July 2002

Selected findings are presented from 152 semi‐structured interviews of people aged 75 and over on the theme of dietary beliefs and practices. Participants resided in urban and rural localities in Scotland and were interviewed in their own homes. Data are presented on the perceived importance of food, defining healthy eating, locality and financial constraints. In considering the implications of data for policy and practice the concepts of the enabling locality and “proper” food are considered. Maintaining independence was the priority for participants and food was perceived as a contributing factor to keeping bodies going and limiting the potential for dependence on others.
Call centres: battery farming or free range?
Authors: Crome Matthew
Published: July 2002

Although the UK’s call centre industry is booming, it is in danger of losing its lead in Europe to the might and experience of established US call centre operators. UK call centres must fight on two fronts if they are to win the battle for market share: first, they must improve customer service levels; second, they must recruit and retain skilled and highly motivated people if they are to continue to reap the rewards of a growing marketplace. Advises on how to motivate your workforce to deliver excellent customer service.
Corporate communications in small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises
Authors: Vinten Gerald
Published: July 2002

The Institute of Personnel and Development has long recognized the impact that small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises make in encouraging innovation in human resources management. It was, therefore, perfectly consistent that as part of their major initiative to assess the current status and future direction of personnel management, they would wish to research the SME sector. The researchers, part of the charity of the Professional Development Foundation, sampled over 300 companies, and this article reflects the findings relating to internal, corporate communications. Not unnaturally, SMEs favour more informal modes of communication, although breakdowns in this, plus other pressures, invoke the need to introduce some degree of formality. The research themes emerging are further explored in ten case studies which represent a representative cross‐section of SME activity.
Brands and brand equity: definition and management
Authors: Wood Lisa
Published: July 2002

This article assumes that brands should be managed as valuable, long‐term corporate assets. It is proposed that for a true brand asset mindset to be achieved, the relationship between brand loyalty and brand value needs to be recognised within the management accounting system. It is also suggested that strategic brand management is achieved by having a multi‐disciplinary focus, which is facilitated by a common vocabulary. This article seeks to establish the relationships between the constructs and concepts of branding, and to provide a framework and vocabulary that aids effective communication between the functions of accounting and marketing. Performance measures for brand management are also considered, and a model for the management of brand equity is provided.
Fuel economy of multigrade gear lubricants
Authors: Bala V. , Brandt G. , Walters D.K.
Published: July 2002

The paper discusses the setup of a light duty axle efficiency test in evaluating gear lubricants for their fuel economy performance. Data collected with an internal reference oil highlight the repeatability of the test in different axles. Comparisons between single grade SAE 90 to multigrade gear lubricants were made under a variety of pinion torques and speeds to simulate highway and city driving conditions. A discussion of lubricant rheology and its importance to maintaining film strength for adequate bearing and gear lubrication for optimum torque efficiency and axle temperature is provided.
Investors in People in small firms
Authors: Ram Monder
Published: July 2002

Investors in People (IIP), the heavily promoted government initiative to enhance organisations’ training and development practices, is significant for its deliberate intention to influence the conduct of management within the firm. While previous studies of IIP have tended to concentrate on large organisations, the dynamics of IIP in the increasingly important small firm population have been neglected. This article focuses on the experiences of three small firms, in particular the rationale for involvement with IIP, the market context of the small firms, its impact on market relations, and the extent to which IIP has made a difference to the nature of the business. The findings highlight the importance of sectoral and workplace relations. The IIP agenda of formalising training and development does not appear to sit easily with these processes; and appears to neglect the significance of informal training. Moreover, the requirements go against the grain of the distinctive small firm context.
The unit general manager: a competency profile
Authors: McCredie Hugh , Shackleton Viv
Published: July 2002

The note explores the requisite competencies of subsidiary unit general managers in a successful multibusiness group dealing primarily in industrial goods. The authors define a competency model for the particular genre of general manager based on the literature. They then attempt to validate the model by reference to data related to outputs, skills and personality attributes which have been collected over a number of years in the context of a variety of action research projects, i.e. research undertaken for operational, rather than academic, purposes. With minor exceptions, the empirical data support the hypothesised model. The data also provide insight into the distinction between those which are threshold competencies, i.e. differentiating between poor and average performers, and those which distinguish the superior performer, as well as indications as to which competencies correlate most with overall performance indices.
The perception gap in employee empowerment: a comparative study of banks in Sweden and Britain
Authors: Holden Len
Published: July 2002

Forms of employee empowerment often associated with HRM initiatives have increased considerably in recent years. This research examines communicational forms of empowerment in a British and Swedish bank. The findings are contextualised against a rapidly changing environment which characterised the banking sector in the 1990s. Research of this nature is often conducted in a mono‐cultural context despite the fact there is increasing evidence that managerial practices, including empowerment, are highly influenced by societal factors. The research confirms previous assumptions that Swedish workers have greater participation than the British in the workplace, but the strength of participation is mediated by external factors such as labour law, social values, technological change and economic conditions. Such factors can negatively impact on alternative forms of communication via trade unions. In such periods effective employee involvement is restricted to micro levels, despite expectations by employees of more involvement in organisational issues at macro levels.
Cross‐cultural adjustment strategies of Japanese spouses in Silicon Valley
Authors: Simeon Roblyn , Fujiu Keiko
Published: July 2002

Studies have reported a strong correlation between expatriate failure and spouse adjustment in foreign assignments. Since Japanese firms have been relatively successful at minimizing executive failure rates, we examined the pre‐departure preparation and attitudes of Japanese spouses in the Silicon Valley area. Factor analysis and regression were used to test a number of hypotheses. Our study found that pre‐departure activities and attitudes had a significant effect on the post‐arrival adjustment of the spouses. We also found that Japanese spouses were able to take advantage of both personal and non‐personal sources at home and abroad for effective information gathering.
An Opportunity Not to Be Missed
Authors: Feltham Victoria
Published: July 2002

A clarion call to all librarians to lobby the governing body of their
local schools, particularly secondaries, for better library provision is
the theme. Notes a poverty of spirit in schools brought about by the
1988 Education Act and details the effect Local Management of Schools
(LMS) has had on both schools and Schools Library Services (SLS).
Emphasizes that financial control of schools has passed from Local
Education Authorities directly to schools and that decisions concerning
library provision now lie with governors. This offers each community the
opportunity to lobby the governing body to improve or safeguard existing
library provision. The financial restraints inherent in LMS have
increased the need for schools to attract the support and patronage of
business and industry and through inter‐library co‐operation all
librarians in a community can help to raise the profile of libraries and
offer schools access to valuable marketing expertise. Highlights that
co‐operation between business and industry is desirable due to the
introduction of National Vocational Qualifications which may start in
secondary schools and continue throughout life. Concludes that, unless
schools are persuaded to invest capital in libraries, the resulting fall
in standards could be catastrophic.
Skill mismatches in the Dutch labor market
Authors: Groot Wim , van den Brink H.M.
Published: July 2002

Over the past years a number of studies have appeared on the incidence and returns to overeducation in the labor market. In these studies various definitions of educational mismatches have been used. In this paper we analyze the validity and reliability of three of these definitions. It is found that the definitions differ widely in the workers who are identified as over‐ or undereducated. Further, the methods yield different estimates of the returns to over‐ and undereducation.
The impact of the tax system on self‐employment in the British construction industry
Authors: Briscoe Geoff , Dainty Andrew , Millett Sarah
Published: July 2002

This paper examines the impact of government taxation policy on self‐employment as the preferred form of job tenure in the British construction industry. It analyses the rapid growth in self‐employment over the period 1970‐1996 in the context of a very benign tax regime. It shows how self‐employment has grown far more rapidly in construction than in other economic sectors and also how British construction has more self‐employment than its European counterparts. The role of financial factors, especially taxation, in the decisions of companies to use self‐employed workers and in workers themselves opting for self‐employed status, is identified. Recent changes in the approach of taxation authorities towards construction workers are described and the broad impact of such measures on the propensity to self‐employment is outlined. An economic model is specified for explaining construction self‐employment in terms of taxation and other economic determinants and the empirical results of applying the model to annual data for the period 1970 to 1999 are reported.
Vibrating structure gyroscopes
Authors: Langmaid Caroline
Published: July 2002

Research and development of solid state gyroscopes has been, for a long time, ongoing within British Aerospace (Systems & Equipment) Ltd, (BASE). BASE, in order to be a leader in the supply of gyroscopes, has continued to research and develop new products. Future developments point to solid state devices supporting conventional gyroscopes.
Beyond Singapore Girl – Grand and product/service differentiation strategies in the new millennium
Authors: Chan Daniel
Published: July 2002

Takes a strategic journey into the future of the airline industry and air travel. The strategic trends and profound changes that are sweeping through the world airline industry and air travel currently, as well as into the next millennium, are analysed. So too are the responses of the lead airlines that are leading the charge in shaping as well as responding to these changes, which will present new opportunities, threats and challenges to airlines with global aspirations operating on the world stage. Singapore Airlines was analysed with British Airways and United Airlines as the leading European and US comparison airlines, respectively, for comparative and benchmarking purposes.
Meeting sabotage: met and conquered
Authors: Myrsiades Linda
Published: July 2002

One of the most valued management skills is the ability to function effectively in such small group decision‐making settings as meetings. Nevertheless, studies admit that little is definitely known about what makes meetings effective, so that meeting leaders often have to operate on assumptions or conflicting evidence even as they recognize that the move toward team‐based organizations has created a special need for meeting facilitation skills. Presents techniques for running meetings based on the results of experience gained working as a meeting consultant at the international headquarters of an insurance corporation in the northeastern USA (referred to as Alifo). Covers a 12‐month period during which 58 managers, supervisors, and executives participated in a meeting analysis survey, attended training sessions, and evaluated meeting simulations. Based, in addition, on meeting observations, minutes, and transcripts, communication reports, and interviews with company managers, several conclusions were reached about the meeting process, leadership behaviors, and group participation at Alifo.
South African management development in the twenty‐first century
Authors: McFarlin Dean B. , Coster Edward A. , Mogale‐Pretorius Connie
Published: July 2002

Discusses the challenges of management development in post‐apartheid South Africa. The main issue is how to compensate for apartheid’s negative legacy and bring large numbers of the previously disfranchised black majority into the corporate mainstream. Achieving this goal will require South African firms to develop aggressive affirmative action programs and to embrace leadership and training approaches that better reflect African values. Clearly, this will not be easy. Examples of South African companies that have taken these steps are presented as well as a conceptual framework that can help companies develop more Africanized approaches to management development.
Value management and post‐occupancy evaluation: closing the loop
Authors: Green Stuart D. , Moss G.W.
Published: July 2002

This paper considers the relationship between value management and facilities management. The findings are particularly relevant to large client organisations which procure new buildings on a regular basis. It is argued that the maximum effectiveness of value management can only be achieved if it is used in conjunction with an ongoing commitment to post‐occupancy evaluation. SMART value management is seen to provide the means of ensuring that an individual building design is in alignment with the client’s strategic property needs. However, it is also necessary to recognise that an organisation’s strategic property needs will continually be in a state of change. Consequentially, economic and functional under‐performance can only be avoided by a regular performance audit of existing property stock in accordance with changing requirements. Such a policy will ensure ongoing competitiveness through organisational learning. While post‐occupancy evaluation represents an obvious additional service to be provided by value management consultants, it is vital that the necessary additional skills are acquired. Process management skills and social science research techniques are clearly important. However, there is also a need to improve mechanisms for data manipulation. Success can only be achieved if equal attention is given to issues of process, structure and content.
Knowledge management in small enterprises
Authors: Lim David , Klobas Jane
Published: July 2002

This paper investigates the extent to which six factors drawn from the theory and practice of knowledge management can be applied in small organisations. The factors are: balance between need and cost of knowledge acquisition; the extent to which knowledge originates in the external environment; internal knowledge processing; internal knowledge storage; use and deployment of knowledge within the organisation; and attention to human resources. Three cases demonstrate that the fundamental concepts and principles of knowledge management are similar for small and large organisations. Differences include the value placed on systematic knowledge management practices such as formalised environmental scanning and computer‐based knowledge sharing systems. Consultants, and library and information professionals, are advised to understand the organisation’s management and communication culture; emphasise simple and inexpensive systems integrated into everyday practice; and establish and monitor adherence to tools such as records management schedules. Information professionals can contribute much by managing systems which use vocabularies to enhance information retrieval for knowledge sharing.
Mixed convection heat transfer in ventilated cavities with opposing and assisting flows
Authors: Raji A. , Hasnaoui M.
Published: July 2002

Mixed convection heat transfer in ventilated cavities submitted to a constant heat flux has been numerically studied using the Navier‐Stokes equations with the Boussinesq approximation. Results in terms of streamlines and isotherms are produced for different values of the governing parameters, namely, the Rayleigh number (103 ≤q Ra ≤q 106) and the Reynolds number (5 ≤q Re ≤q 5, 000). The geometrical parameters are the aspect ratio of the cavity A = L’/H’ = 2 and the relative height of the openings B = h’/H’ = 1/4. Results of the simulations show that the maximum interaction between natural and forced convection occurs for couples (Ra, Re) which can be correlated as Re = a Rab.
Friendships of women and men at work
Authors: Markiewicz Dorothy , Devine Irene , Kausilas Dana
Published: July 2002

Interpersonal networks and quality of women and men’s close work friendships in three work settings were investigated to assess potential impact of gender socialization and organizational structure factors on patterns of interaction within same‐sex and opposite‐sex work friendships, and to examine whether friendship quality would predict salary and job satisfaction and if this would differ as a function of the sex of the employee or the friend. Findings indicate that homophilous ties are stronger than opposite sex ties, which support previous research on relationships in the work environment. Work context influenced the nature of relationships among women and men. In contrast to research on friendships outside the workplace, work friendships involving women were not consistently rated as more satisfying and ratings varied across work settings. Quality of close male friendships was more associated with career success and job satisfaction than quality of close female friendships.
Managerial risk interpretations: does industry make a difference?
Authors: Pablo Amy L.
Published: July 2002

Decision‐making studies incorporating risk have typically used risk measures that are generic across industries. Responding to calls for finer‐grained approaches, a recent study used a qualitative approach to discover how managers interpret risk in different industry contexts. Managers from the oil and gas (61), commercial banking (66), and software development (28) sectors were asked an open‐ended question about their conceptualizations of risk in the context of regularly encountered business situations. Resulting textual data were analyzed using QSR NUD*IST. Industry group membership and risk interpretations were found to be significantly related in that the different industry groups showed different distributions of attention to various aspects of risk. For researchers, these findings suggest the need to use differentiated risk measures. For practitioners, the findings suggest potential benefits from broadening cognitions relating to risk.
Overall job satisfaction: how good are single versus multiple‐item measures?
Authors: Oshagbemi Titus
Published: July 2002

Managers interested in finding out the overall job satisfaction levels of their workers often face the problem of the appropriate measure of job satisfaction to adopt: single versus multiple‐item? This study sets out to compare the results of a single versus a multiple‐item measure employed to investigate the job satisfaction of university teachers. The purpose of the study was to ascertain the superiority or otherwise of the measures in ascertaining the overall job satisfaction of workers. The outcome of the study shows that the single‐item measure overestimated the percentage of people satisfied with their jobs and grossly underestimated both the percentage of dissatisfied workers and those who show indifference in comparison with the figures of the multiple‐item measure. Our conclusion, therefore, is that the results from the single‐item measure tend to paint a rosier picture of job satisfaction than the impression conveyed from the multiple‐item measure would justify.
Internal and external influences on women’s and men’s entry into management
Authors: Marongiu Sophia , Ekehammar Bo
Published: July 2002

The study examined the influence of individual (internal) and situational (external) factors on the career advancement of women and men (N = 88) in a Swedish nation‐wide organization. Using, among other methods, LISREL path analyses, the results revealed that the internal factor of instrumental qualities was the major predictor of managerial advancement regardless of gender. Thus, the findings imply that the norms for managers are still quite traditional, leading both women and men to adopt an instrumental managerial style. Contrary to expectations, the impact of the external factor was not indicative of managerial aspirations or managerial group membership (attending a managerial program provided by the organization). However, women in both groups suffered more from work/family pressure than men in both groups. The results are discussed in terms of the contemporary view that there might be a shift in the definition of the managerial role in favor of women.