bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STRESS AND STATUS IN TEACHING: AN INVESTIGATION OF
POTENTIAL GENDER‐RELATED RELATIONSHIPS
Authors: Travers Cheryl J. , Cooper Cary L.
Published: May 2006

Research into stress among teachers in the UK has indicated gender
differences relating to the levels and types of stress experienced. The
results of a study employing two types of measurement: semi‐structured
interviews and an in‐depth postal questionnaire of 1,790 teachers is
reported. The study focused on: the different career patterns of male
and female teachers; the respective levels of education; the
distribution in primary and secondary schools; and acquisition of
incentive allowances; and the under‐representation of women at
managerial levels. The results revealed that female teachers are not
realising the levels of seniority, salary and responsibility of their
male colleagues, and that levels of stress and satisfaction differ
according to gender. Of major importance was the finding that both male
and female teachers are reporting higher levels of stress symptoms than
those of comparable occupational groups.
A Monetary Model of the Parallel Market for Foreign
Exchange
Authors: Agénor Pierre‐Richard
Published: May 2006

Develops and tests a monetary model of the parallel market for
foreign exchange which incorporates forward‐looking expectations and
currency substitution features. Econometric results using quarterly data
for a group of 12 developing countries show that changes in official
exchange rates and monetary disequilibria are the major determinants of
the behaviour of parallel exchange rates. Changes in expected rates of
return on domestic and foreign currency play a significant role only in
middle‐income economies.
Ringing the Changes: BT′s Use of Development Centres in
Redeployment
Authors: Knightley Ray
Published: May 2006

Describes the background to – and some of the design issues
raised by – the BT Redeployment Development Centre project. Both
the ethical considerations of shared feedback and benefits to the
participants are examined in a change management context. Highlights
some possible pitfalls for potential designers of such events.
Evolving Sourcing Strategies for the 1990s
Authors: Monczka Robert M. , Trent Robert J.
Published: May 2006

Evolving purchasing/sourcing strategies necessary for competitive
success during the 1990s are identified. The strategies, identified by
purchasing executives of leading‐edge Fortune 100 firms during
field interviews and a Delphi process, reflect purchasing′s growing
contribution to firms′ overall competitive performance. Also included is
a discussion of supply base optimisation and total quality management at
the supplier as necessary prerequisites for the implementation of
increasingly sophisticated strategies which follow a progression to
achieving an integrated set of purchasing strategies. There is also a
discussion of the linkage between corporate and purchasing strategy.
Not‐for‐profit Organisations in Israel
Authors: Weinblatt J.
Published: May 2006

The evolution of the not‐for‐profit organisation sector in the Israeli economy is described, combining economic theory together with history and ideology to provide a multi‐dimensional explanation of this important phenomenon. Why some activities are performed by not‐for‐profit organisations instead of, or in addition to, for‐profit firms and government institutions is outlined, and explanations for the existence of NPOs in various fields of public service are offered.
Assessing Equal Opportunities Policies
Authors: Liff Sonia
Published: May 2006

A 1984 survey revealed that 60 per cent of organisations in the UK
operate equal opportunities policies. What is the significance of this
in practice? Statistics continue to show inequalities between various
categories of workers – men and women, black and white,
able‐bodied and disabled. The article looks at some broader questions
about overall policy approach, and includes an investigation into
unequal opportunities and the solutions offered, in relation to the
Equal Opportunities Code.
“Our Most Valuable Asset is People”: Practising a Popular Philosophy in a Life Assurance Company
Authors: Hope Veronica
Published: May 2006

In this article the author analyses the HRM
strategies and practices of a major life insurance
company, designed to promote a marketing‐led,
change‐oriented culture in an industry traditionally
characterised and paternalism by low levels of
change.
The Canadian Automobile Industry: Work Reorganisation and Industrial Relations Change
Authors: Rutherford Tod
Published: May 2006

The 1980s have witnessed a marked divergence
in the economic and industrial relations
development in the North American auto‐industry.
It is argued that important links exist between
industrial relations and the wider patterns of
uneven development in the North American auto‐industry.
The development of industrial relations
in this sector has been and will continue to be a
major factor in determining the form of work
organisation, particularly as pressures to move
towards more Japanese or flexible working
practices grow.
Performance‐related Pay: Pretexts and Pitfalls
Authors: Lewis Philip
Published: May 2006

Performance‐related pay (PRP) has grown in
importance in the 1980s and is likely to continue
growing. The reasons for this growth are
examined: labour market factors, changes in
organisational objectives, fairness in payment
initiatives, weakening of collectivisation, and
“fashion”. Problems associated with PRP are also
explored. It is argued that PRP has a capacity to
subvert the purposes for which it is intended by
distorting pay structures, creating unfairness in
reward systems and harming team spirit. PRP also
detracts from the value of other performance
appraisal objectives. Some of the problems
inherent in measuring individual job performance
are also considered.
Informal Groups, Leadership and Productivity
Authors: Hussein Raef T.
Published: May 2006

It is argued that no one can ignore the existence of informal
groups within formal organisations. They perform necessary functions and
satisfy human needs. The role of the leader to achieve co‐operation
between the formal and informal organisations, thereby encouraging group
goals and company goals to coincide, is explored.
Consulting and Change in the Storytelling Organisation
Authors: Boje David M.
Published: May 2006

A participant‐observation study of consulting in a large office
supply firm of how consultants and organisational stakeholders perform
stories to make sense of events and to enact change during their
conversations is presented. A theory of organisation as a collective
storytelling system in which precedent and future‐directed stories are
shared, revised and interpreted to account for and to affect unfolding
organisational changes is extended. It is illustrated how very terse
stories, told in everyday conversations, require the listener silently
to fill in major portions of the story line and story implications.
Storytelling and story interpretation is a critical part of the
consulting work done in complex organisations.
Aggressive and Passive Exporters: A Study in the Brazilian
Furniture Industry
Authors: da Rocha Angela , Christensen Carl H. , Eduardo da Cunha Carlos
Published: May 2006

The firm and chief executive officer correlates of aggressive
export behaviour were examined in a random sample of 45 Brazilian
wood‐furniture manufacturers. Because of the importance of earning
foreign exchange to make payments on international loans, the Brazilian
government has made major efforts to stimulate firms to export. This
study examines whether the characteristics of aggressive exporters under
such stimulation are different from those found in other environments.
The results indicate that governmental intervention does not materially
affect the characteristics of aggressive exporters and that the
aggressive‐passive dichotomous model is, with a few exceptions, valid
under export stimulation programmes in Brazil. However, it was not
possible to affirm that aggressiveness was correlated with firm export
performance.
Determinants of Export Channel Structure: The Effects of
Experience and Psychic Distance Reconsidered
Authors: Klein Saul , Roth Victor J.
Published: May 2006

The effects of two commonly cited determinants of export channel
structure are examined in a transaction cost framework. Psychic distance
and experience have traditionally been thought to have uni‐directional
effects. Channel structure was measured using three discrete points
along a forward integration continuum, representing increasing degrees
of commitment. The operation of the psychic distance and experience
effects was found to reflect a firm′s vulnerability to opportunistic
responses in a foreign market. Depending on the ability of the market to
enforce behavioural safeguards, the effects of both determinants may be
reversed. The article reveals the insights that may be gained from the
application of transaction cost analysis to more traditional approaches.
Evaluating Export Middlemen in Alternative Channel
Structures
Authors: Bello Daniel C. , Urban David J. , Verhage Bronislaw J.
Published: May 2006

Although instability characterises export channels, little research
has examined the interfirm evaluations that are related to a
manufacturer′s continued use of export middlemen. In this research, a
manufacturer′s evaluations of its international intermediary are divided
into performance, dependence, and importance dimensions. Theoretical and
empirical literatures are used to frame hypotheses linking each
evaluative dimension to an aspect of the manufacturer′s channel design
strategy. The results show that manufacturers′ evaluations of their
middlemen are systematically related to the economic and organisational
strategies used by manufacturers. The discussion draws important
implications for managing the indirect export channel.
Examining the Barriers to Supplier Development
Authors: Lascelles D.M. , Dale B.G.
Published: May 2006

The barriers to supplier development are examined under the broad headings of: poor communication and feedback, supplier complacency, misguided supplier improvement objectives, the credibility of the customer as viewed by their suppliers, and misconceptions regarding purchasing power. Key steps involved in a supplier development programme are listed.
A Review of the Cast Iron Foundry Industry: Past, Present and Future. Part 2 ‐‐ The Way Forward
Authors: Cheema P.S. , Griffiths A.J. , Towill D.R.
Published: May 2006

A review of the cast iron foundry industry has been given in two parts. Part 1 concentrated on historical aspects of the UK foundry industry, whilst Part 2 will look at the important aspects for a modern foundry to succeed. The article starts with the decline of the UK foundry industry, and suggests a way to become more competitive through the advancement of new technology, and total quality assurance. The basic concepts of quality are examined and by way of an example, a case study of a British foundry shows the current problems being faced. The case study illustrates the problems faced in these days of increased competition, dwindling margins, the lack of investment, low morale leading to poor quality parts, and hence uncertain futures. Finally it is shown how the foundry can improve the quality of its products, and achieve a sound manufacturing base.
The Application of Total Quality Management to Hazard Studies and Their Recording
Authors: Turney R.D.
Published: May 2006

Hazard studies for the design of safe process plant are now well established, being applied in the process industries worldwide. The application of total quality management forces the question: what procedures can be put in place to reduce variability and to consistently perform a study which meets the customer′s requirements? The form of record and the features required of a computer‐aided recording system are discussed.
Performance Appraisal: Testing a Process Model
Authors: Gomez‐Mejia Luis R.
Published: May 2006

The objectives of performance appraisal are outlined, and the
problems with performance evaluation are examined. Race, age and sex
discrimination are discussed in relation to Equal Employment Opportunity
Commission guidelines. A performance appraisal model is laid down with
step by step guidelines. The model is assessed against the key
objectives of performance appraisal.
WOMEN MANAGERS IN BRITAIN – ISSUES FOR THE 1990s
Authors: Davidson Marilyn J.
Published: May 2006

The position of women managers in Britain is addressed and the
relevant issues for the 1990s are discussed. While it seems relatively
easy for women to gain employment at the lower levels of organisations,
it is still proving very difficult for them to reach upper middle and
senior management positions. However, in view of impending demographic
changes and probable European Community directives on equal
opportunities from 1992, it is visualised that the next decade will
provide an enormous opportunity for working women, particularly those in
business and management.
SHADES OF MEANING IN SOVIET BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT
Authors: Holden Nigel J.
Published: May 2006

As the USSR undertakes the transition to a market economy, western
words and concepts to describe business and management activity are
becoming increasingly used there. The semantic discrepancies between the
English word “businessman” and the Soviet word biznesmen are advanced as examples. But the main focus of attention is on
the use and implications of the Russified forms of “manager”
and “management”, which are becoming very fashionable in the
USSR. A short historical review of these terms in the Soviet context is
followed by a discussion of the impact of perestroika on the
evolution of management as it becomes increasingly independent of Party
and planners. Attention is paid to the distinction between industrial
managers and entrepreneurs seeking to establish small businesses in the
USSR. Use is made of Russian‐language sources.
Signage
Authors: Stevenson Alan
Published: May 2006

Reviews the two types of signing: information signage and
statutory/mandatory signage. Outlines typical procedures for
establishing signage in the workplace, including discussions and initial
designs, development and finished designs, and implementation and
quality control. Finally, examines materials and cost considerations.
The essentials of value engineering
Authors: Green Stuart
Published: May 2006

Confronts some prevalent misconceptions regarding value engineering
in the construction industry. Argues that value engineering offers a
methodology by which a value audit can be implemented during a
building′s design. Reviews the value engineering approach, the nature of
unnecessary costs, value engineering methodology, and considers the
issues of the composition of the value engineering team and problem
solving. Concludes that value engineering offers a fundamentally
different approach to cost control during the design stage.
The Post‐Fordist Workplace: Issues of Time and Place
Authors: Laing Andrew
Published: May 2006

The office as a workplace has reached a critical point in its
evolution. The requirement of the conventional office would appear to be
holding back the near applications of IT and organisational creativity,
which aim to promote a much freer and more dynamic relationship between
space and time for the office workplace. Henry Ford′s mass production of
the 1920s laid the foundations of the modern office as we know it, but
“post‐Fordism” is challenging the rigid patterns then
ordained, especially the traditional notions of work time and space. To
this end not only must the office be redesigned but also the nature of
work itself must be redefined.
Focus Groups: A Discussion
Authors: Jenkins Mark , Harrison K. Sara
Published: May 2006

Considers the focus group as an alternative to the traditional
structured questionnaire. Their appeal, what they can and cannot
achieve, and four key questions related to conducting focus groups are
discussed. Focus groups are relevant to a broad spectrum of marketing
issues related to the food industry, and it is concluded that their role
will continue to dominate qualitative market research. Increasingly high
standards will be demanded of moderators, perhaps leading to recognised
qualifications for the holding of focus groups.
Service‐oriented Thinking and its Implications for the
Marketing Mix
Authors: Beaven Mary H. , Scotti Dennis J.
Published: May 2006

Argues that a cognitive bias is found in the language used to
describe services, since services are defined in relation to
manufacturing. Proposes that services should be accurately described as
they are very different from manufactured goods. Considers service from
an alternative viewpoint, highlighting this perspective′s implications
for marketing thought. Draws attention to practical implications with
regard to the marketing mix.
Building Innovativeness in Large U.S. Corporations
Authors: Parsons Andrew J.
Published: May 2006

Maintains that a core issue for the international competitiveness
of US corporations is that of the innovation challenge, that is the
failure to effectively exploit the inventiveness and energy of
individuals in large corporation environments. Describes the background
to the problem, that of the erosion of corporate US‐pioneered markets
and discusses the concept of innovativeness, using examples from a
variety of industries and companies. Offers advice on the development of
innovativeness, concerningstrategy, skills building and the use of a
cross‐functional approach, concluding that US corporations must, like
small companies and entrepreneurs, become more innovative in order to
compete.
Usage Versus Ownership: Suggestions for Refining Studies of Time Savings and Wives’ Employment
Authors: Kaufman Carol J.
Published: May 2006

Considers the mixed results of studies linking between wives′
employment and time‐saving behaviours. Argues that a possible
explanation is found in limited conceptual frameworks, inconsistent use
of concepts, and insufficiently sensitive research measures. Concludes
that both studies, and product development and promotion, should utilize
a broadened conceptual framework of consumer time restraints, rather
than just wives′ employment.
“Real” Consumers Just Aren’t Normal
Authors: Mueller James L.
Published: May 2006

Considers changing marketing and advertising attitudes to disabled
people, and the medical advances which allow people to live longer.
Examines the nature of the disabled consumer market and marketing
strategies which are inclusive of, rather than exclusively for, disabled
people. Discusses reports evaluating which products can reach a
universal market, such as door levers and memory dial telephones.
Product Class Competitors as Sources of Innovative Marketing Strategies
Authors: Whan Park C. , Smith Daniel C.
Published: May 2006

Describes an approach to competitive analysis that focuses on
inter‐industry learning. Examines examples which show how the approach
can provide insight into identifying new product opportunities, ways of
repositioning existing products, and ways of adding value to existing
products. Concludes that an inter‐industry learning strategy is more
likely to succeed because it delivers innovative ideas while escaping
the codes of conduct that develop within particular industries.
New Products from New Technologies
Authors: McKeown James J.
Published: May 2006

Takes a company study approach examining a division of 3M, focusing
on the development and commercialization of various new technologies and
new products. Describes the use of Cross‐Functional Teams in the
development process, which itself is considered as consisting of four
key stages, which are examined in detail. Concludes that constant review
of procedures and processes is necessary in order to improve product
development in industrial markets, while noting that other techniques
may be more appropriate for businesses in different sectors.
Biological Treatment of Landfill Leachate
Authors: Collivignarelli Carlo , Bina Stefano
Published: May 2006

As is known, leachate produced in a municipal solid waste landfill
has very high concentrations of organic and inorganic pollution
substances. Hence when present in deep or surface waters, it produces
serious effects on health because of pollution of drinkable water
sources. Therefore, in order to correctly define a management
alternative for landfill leachate disposal, an experiment about its
joint treatment with domestic wastewater in a biological full scale
plant was developed. This treatment method which is the most used in
Italy, among the disposal alternatives for leachate, poses problems
connected with the definition of correct load rates between the two
components (domestic wastewater and landfill leachate). The experiment
which it was intended would verify the real feasibility of the
treatment, was conducted over a six‐month period, on a wastewater
treatment plant in Folzano, Brescia, Italy. Experimentation was
developed by gradually increasing leachate input and maintaining process
conditions under analytical control. In particular, metals adsorption by
the sludge and their effect on the efficiency of the process was
measured. During the experiment pollution loads on the plant reached
much higher values than ones due to domestic wastewater only (for
example: the ratio between COD due to leachate and COD due to domestic
waste increased to 9:5). Biological systems have shown a remarkable
capacity for treating leachate, at least concerning COD while the
removal efficiency of nitrogen was negatively influenced by the great
leachate flows. In conclusion, these results show an effective
applicability of this solution (if the leachate dosage is maintained
under certain limits) and suggest the development of some pretreatment
(such as ammonia stripping and metals precipitation) able to greatly
improve the biological treatment of the leachate.
THE ROLE OF THE SHOPPING CENTRE IN US RETAILING
Authors: Carlson Harold J.
Published: May 2006

The modern shopping centre developed in the suburbs of the United
States following the Second World War as returning veterans sought homes
for themselves and their families. These suburban shopping centres were
the product of two demographic events – the move to suburbia and
the impact of the baby boom. Retailers of all types found the suburban
shopping centre an ideal place for their goods and developers built
centres of all types and sizes throughout the US in response to the need
and demand during the 1970s. Today, there are over 37,000 shopping
centres accounting for over 56 per cent of total retail sales excluding
automotive and petrol service stations. The current overabundance of
retail space coupled with a recession has created special problems for
this industry.
QUICK RESPONSE RETAILING IN CANADA AND THE NETHERLANDS
Authors: Larson Paul D. , Sijbrands Margret J.C.
Published: May 2006

Evidence of the quick response (QR) impact on retail inventory
levels is presented. QR involves technology‐driven, co‐operative
retailer/supplier relationships. QR enabling technology includes:
point‐of‐sale systems, uniform product/article codes, and electronic
data interchange. Using statistical analysis of Canadian chain store
inventory data, and a case study on the largest chain store operation in
The Netherlands, this study finds that QR is bringing lower inventory
levels to retailers. There are two main retail management implications
of these findings. First, merchandisers can use QR techniques to reduce
inventory levels – but only up to a point. Since stock stimulates
sales, retailers should use item/stock‐keeping unit (SKU) level data to
study optimal (which may not equal minimum) inventory levels. Second, to
reap the full rewards of QR implementation, retailers must share the SKU
data with suppliers, and work towards more co‐operative relationships.
Creating Cultural Change
Authors: Atkinson Philip
Published: May 2006

Looks at organizational culture in part 1 of a series on cultural change. Discusses how understanding the importance and dynamics of organisational culture is critical if a TQM initiative is to be successful. Asserts that senior officers who over‐emphasise the application of systems to the detriment of developing “shared values” will fail to maximise the benefit of TQM. Asserts the need not to underestimate the power of the organisational culture in effecting TQ. Concludes that managers have a responsibility to ensure that the culture projects something strong and positive and promotes TQ.
Management Behaviour
Authors: Plowman Brian
Published: May 2006

Identifies barriers to culture change. Discusses a survey which analysed views of companies concerning the ways in which TQ can be implemented. Looks at some of the serious concerns associated with the implementation barriers created in management′s behaviour and culture. Asserts that cultural change was identified as being the major barrier to the successful implementation of TQ. Contends that cultural barriers can fuel disruption through the concept of business processes. Suggests ways to solve the problems. Concludes that culture change in management behaviour is the key. Change in behaviour has to be demonstrated.
Surge Protection: Shocking Standards Exist!
Authors: Truthan Larry
Published: May 2006

Considers the use of surge suppressors to protect computers from
surges in voltage and ′spikes′ – sudden sharp rises caused by
switching on equipment such as air conditioners in the vicinity.
Describes the tests that the technology has to go through in order to be
awarded one of the two industry standards, as well as explaining the
meanings of some of the important terminology.
Influence of salinity on the migration of postlarval and juvenile flounder Pleuronectes flesus L. in a gradient experiment
Authors: Bos A. R. , Thiel R.
Published: May 2006

The behaviour of the flounder Pleuronectes flesus was observed in an experimental aquarium that consisted of five connected units with decreasing salinity from 20 to 15, 10, 5 and 0·5. This experimental aquarium was highly effective for studying behaviour in salinity gradients, because the gradient was relatively stable. After 4 days of observation, significantly more flounder were found in water with a salinity of 0·5, indicating a preference for fresh water. The total length of the flounders ranged from 7·5 to 21 mm. The majority of larvae had already started eye‐migration, however, the longer specimens had completed metamorphosis. The migration towards low salinities was observed to increase with ontogenetic development.
Role of APP phosphorylation in FE65‐dependent gene transactivation mediated by AICD
Authors: Nakaya Tadashi , Suzuki Toshiharu
Published: May 2006

Consecutive cleavages of Alzheimer's amyloid β‐protein precursor (APP) generate intracellular domain fragment (AICD). Interaction of APP and/or AICD with the adaptor protein FE65 is thought to modulate the metabolism of APP and the function of AICD. Phosphorylation or amino acid substitution of APP and AICD at threonine 668 (Thr668) suppresses their association with FE65. Here, we analyzed the function of APP and AICD phosphorylation in the nuclear translocation of FE65. In brain, AICD was present as phosphorylated and non‐phosphorylated forms with non‐phosphorylated AICD being dominantly detected in the nucleus. However, a mutant AICD (AICDa), in which Thr668 of AICD was replaced with Ala, was also mostly localized to the nucleus. These observations indicate that phosphorylation of AICD does not regulate the translocation of FE65 and that FE65 does not accompany AICD into the nucleus. APP was known to tether FE65 to the membrane. We found that phosphorylation of APP liberated membrane‐bound FE65, which was then translocated into the nucleus where it up‐regulated gene transactivation mediated by AICD, which was translocated into the nucleus independently of FE65. Therefore, phosphorylation of APP but not AICD modulates FE65‐dependent gene transactivation mediated by AICD through the regulation of FE65 intracellular localization.
Decline in haemoglobin A1c values in diabetic patients receiving interferon‐alpha and ribavirin for chronic hepatitis C*
Authors: Greenberg P. D. , Rosman A. S. , Eldeiry L. S. , Naqvi Z. , Bräu N.
Published: May 2006

Summary. Haemoglobin A1c (A1c) levels are lower during haemolysis because of the shorter exposure of haemoglobin (Hb) to plasma glucose. Ribavirin (RBV) used in combination with interferon‐alpha (IFN) for chronic hepatitis C causes reversible haemolytic anaemia. This study examined the extent to which RBV treatment influences A1c levels in diabetic patients. A retrospective analysis identified 32 diabetic patients who underwent hepatitis C treatment with IFN and RBV. Each subject had at least three measures of A1c, Hb and glucose: before, during and after therapy. A1c values decreased from a mean pretreatment level of 7.2% to an on‐treatment A1c level of 5.2% [mean paired difference −2.01%; 95% confidence interval (CI) −1.59% to −2.43%;P < 0.001]. During therapy, mean Hb levels decreased from 15.1 g/dL at baseline to a nadir of 11.7 g/dL (P < 0.001) with a rise in lactose dehydrogenase levels and reticulocyte counts, and unchanged mean corpuscular volume values confirming haemolysis. At the same time, glucose levels declined by a mean of 38.4 mg/dL (95% CI 13.4–63.5 mg/dL;P = 0.002) as did body weights by a mean of 3.15 kg (P < 0.001). According to published glucose–A1c correlation tables, this decline of glucose concentration by 38.4 mg/dL correlates to a decline in A1c level of 1.08%. In conclusion, reductions of A1c levels by a mean of 2.01% during hepatitis C therapy with IFN + RBV are due to a combination of decreased glucose levels (1.08%) and RBV‐induced haemolysis (0.93%). A1c levels should not be measured during hepatitis C treatment with IFN + RBV because they do not adequately reflect glycaemic control.
Integration Host Factor is required for FarR repression of the farAB‐encoded efflux pump of Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Lee Eun‐Hee , Hill Stuart A. , Napier Ruth , Shafer William M.
Published: May 2006

The farAB operon encodes an efflux pump system that mediates the resistance of Neisseria gonorrhoeae to antimicrobial long‐chain fatty acids. We previously observed that expression of farAB is negatively regulated by the FarR repressor. In this study, we examined the molecular mechanism by which FarR represses expression of farAB. DNase I footprinting analysis, coupled with a deletion analysis of the farAB promoter region, indicated that FarR binds to three sites (termed sites A, B and C) within the DNA sequence upstream of farA; genetic analysis revealed, however, that site B is not required for FarR repression of farAB. This repression also required the presence of Integration Host Factor (IHF), which was found to bind to sequences located between FarR binding sites A and C. We determined that IHF binding to the farAB promoter region could inhibit transcription in vitro and that such binding induced a bending of the target DNA, which we propose to be important in regulating this operon. IHF binding to the promoter region was found to stabilize the binding of FarR to its binding sites A and C and as a consequence, enhanced repression of farAB expression mediated by FarR. We propose a model in which expression of the farAB‐encoded efflux pump in N. gonorrhoeae is modulated by the DNA binding activities of FarR and IHF.
PDR16‐mediated azole resistance in Candida albicans
Authors: Saidane Saloua , Weber Sandra , De Deken Xavier , St‐Germain Guy , Raymond Martine
Published: May 2006

Many Candida albicans azole‐resistant (AR) clinical isolates overexpress the CDR1 and CDR2 genes encoding homologous multidrug transporters of the ATP‐binding cassette family. We show here that these strains also overexpress the PDR16 gene, the orthologue of Saccharomyces cerevisiae PDR16 encoding a phosphatidylinositol transfer protein of the Sec14p family. It has been reported that S. cerevisiae pdr16Δ mutants are hypersusceptible to azoles, suggesting that C. albicans PDR16 may contribute to azole resistance in these isolates. To address this question, we deleted both alleles of PDR16 in an AR clinical strain overexpressing the three genes, using the mycophenolic acid resistance flipper strategy. Our results show that the homozygous pdr16Δ/pdr16Δ mutant is approximately twofold less resistant to azoles than the parental strain whereas reintroducing a copy of PDR16 in the mutant restored azole resistance, demonstrating that this gene contributes to the AR phenotype of the cells. In addition, overexpression of PDR16 in azole‐susceptible (AS) C. albicans and S. cerevisiae strains increased azole resistance by about twofold, indicating that an increased dosage of Pdr16p can confer low levels of azole resistance in the absence of additional molecular alterations. Taken together, these results demonstrate that PDR16 plays a role in C. albicans azole resistance.
Bacillus subtilis Fnr senses oxygen via a [4Fe‐4S] cluster coordinated by three cysteine residues without change in the oligomeric state
Authors: Reents Heike , Gruner Ines , Harmening Ute , Böttger Lars H. , Layer Gunhild , Heathcote Peter , Trautwein Alfred X. , Jahn Dieter , Härtig Elisabeth
Published: May 2006

The oxygen regulator Fnr is part of the regulatory cascade in Bacillus subtilis for the adaptation to anaerobic growth conditions. In vivo complementation experiments revealed the essential role of only three cysteine residues (C227, C230, C235) at the C‐terminus of B. subtilis Fnr for the transcriptional activation of the nitrate reductase operon (narGHJI) and nitrite extrusion protein gene (narK) promoters. UV/VIS, electron paramagnetic spin resonance (EPR) and Mössbauer spectroscopy experiments in combination with iron and sulphide content determinations using anaerobically purified recombinant B. subtilis Fnr identified the role of these three cysteine residues in the formation of one [4Fe‐4S]2+ cluster per Fnr molecule. The obtained Mössbauer parameters are supportive for a [4Fe‐4S]2+ cluster with three cysteine ligated iron sites and one non‐cysteine ligated iron site. Gel filtration experiments revealed a stable dimeric structure for B. subtilis Fnr which is independent of the presence of the [4Fe‐4S]2+ cluster. Gel mobility shift and in vitro transcription assays demonstrated the essential role of an intact [4Fe‐4S]2+ cluster for promoter binding and transcriptional activation. An amino acid exchange introduced in the proposed αD‐helix of B. subtilis Fnr (G149S) abolished its in vivo and in vitro activities indicating its importance for intramolecular signal transduction. The clear differences in the localization and coordination of the [4Fe‐4S] cluster and in the organization of the oligomeric state between Escherichia coli and B. subtilis Fnr indicate differences in their mode of action.
Antigenic variation with a twist – the Borrelia story
Authors: Norris Steven J.
Published: May 2006

A common mechanism of immune evasion in pathogenic bacteria and protozoa is antigenic variation, in which genetic or epigenetic changes result in rapid, sequential shifts in a surface‐exposed antigen. In this issue of Molecular Microbiology, Dai et al. provide the most complete description to date of the vlp/vsp antigenic variation system of the relapsing fever spirochaete, Borrelia hermsii. This elaborate, plasmid‐encoded system involves an expression site that can acquire either variable large protein (vlp) or variable small protein (vsp) surface lipoprotein genes from 59 different archival copies. The archival vlp and vsp genes are arranged in clusters on at least five different plasmids. Gene conversion occurs through recombination events at upstream homology sequences (UHS) found in each gene copy, and at downstream homology sequences (DHS) found periodically among the vlp/vsp archival genes. Previous studies have shown that antigenic variation in relapsing fever Borrelia not only permits the evasion of host antibody responses, but can also result in changes in neurotropism and other pathogenic properties. The vlsE antigenic variation locus of Lyme disease spirochaetes, although similar in sequence to the relapsing fever vlp genes, has evolved a completely different antigenic variation mechanism involving segmental recombination from a contiguous array of vls silent cassettes. These two systems thus appear to represent divergence from a common precursor followed by functional convergence to create two distinct antigenic variation processes.
Fern endemism and its correlates: contribution from an elevational transect in Costa Rica
Authors: Kluge Jürgen , Kessler Michael
Published: May 2006

We studied the distribution patterns of endemic ferns along an elevational gradient of 3400 m in Costa Rica, Central America. We related the endemism patterns of the whole species set and separated for life forms and microhabitats according to topography and environmental factors. Fern species were surveyed in 156 plots each with an area of 400 m2, with up to five plots at every elevational step of 100 m. Global range size for every species was compiled from literature data, and species restricted to the mountain range from Costa Rica and adjacent western Panama were defined as endemic (24.5% of all species recorded). We found patterns of endemism rates mostly peaking at mid‐elevation, but when separated for different life forms and microhabitats, some deviations from the overall pattern emerged. High constant humidity and reduced surface area were closely related to high levels of endemism. High humidity is discussed as a general predictor for high endemism rates in concert with highest overall richness. Restricted area of elevational belts, indicating a fragmented habitat, leads to a higher degree of population isolation and thus species differentiation. However, both interpretations were not fully supported by our data. Most importantly, endemism rates were fairly low on mountain tops that have the smallest available area in a topographically highly fragmented setting. In contrast, endemic species were more common than widespread species at the highest elevations. History and climatic shifts are assumed to play a role in this respect.
Integrating DNA data and traditional taxonomy to streamline biodiversity assessment: an example from edaphic beetles in the Klamath ecoregion, California, USA
Authors: Caesar Ryan M. , Sörensson Mikael , Cognato Anthony I.
Published: May 2006

Conservation and land management decisions may be misguided by inaccurate or misinterpreted knowledge of biodiversity. Non‐systematists often lack taxonomic expertise necessary for an accurate assessment of biodiversity. Additionally, there are far too few taxonomists to contribute significantly to the task of identifying species for specimens collected in biodiversity studies. While species level identification is desirable for making informed management decisions concerning biodiversity, little progress has been made to reduce this taxonomic deficiency. Involvement of non‐systematists in the identification process could hasten species identification. Incorporation of DNA sequence data has been recognized as one way to enhance biodiversity assessment and species identification. DNA data are now technologically and economically feasible for most scientists to apply in biodiversity studies. However, its use is not widespread and means of its application has not been extensively addressed. This paper illustrates how such data can be used to hasten biodiversity assessment of species using a little‐known group of edaphic beetles. Partial mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I was sequenced for 171 individuals of feather‐wing beetles (Coleoptera: Ptiliidae) from the Klamath ecoregion, which is part of a biodiversity hotspot, the California Floristic Province. A phylogram of these data was reconstructed via parsimony and the strict consensus of 28,000 equally parsimonious trees was well resolved except for peripheral nodes. Forty‐two voucher specimens were selected for further identification from clades that were associated with many synonymous and non‐synonymous nucleotide changes. A ptiliid taxonomic expert identified nine species that corresponded to monophyletic groups. These results allowed for a more accurate assessment of ptiliid species diversity in the Klamath ecoregion. In addition, we found that the number of amino acid changes or percentage nucleotide difference did not associate with species limits. This study demonstrates that the complementary use of taxonomic expertise and molecular data can improve both the speed and the accuracy of species‐level biodiversity assessment. We believe this represents a means for non‐systematists to collaborate directly with taxonomists in species identification and represents an improvement over methods that rely solely on parataxonomy or sequence data.
Open partial nephrectomy: outcomes from two UK centres
Authors: RAY ELEANOR R. , TURNEY BENJAMIN W. , SINGH RAJINDER , CHANDRA ASHISH , CRANSTON DAVID W. , O’BRIEN TIMOTHY S.
Published: May 2006

OBJECTIVE

To define the current achievable outcomes from open partial nephrectomy (OPN) in the UK at a time when other treatments for small kidney tumours are increasingly being advocated. Current knowledge of the effectiveness of OPN is limited by the fact that published data are almost exclusively derived from a very few centres of established world renown.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 100 consecutive planned OPNs in 90 patients at two UK centres; 93 operations were for suspected cancer. The median (range) tumour size was 3.8 (1.2–9) cm. In all, 42 OPNs were imperative for patients with a single kidney (14), synchronous bilateral tumours (20), or renal impairment alone (eight). In 42 patients with a tumour of ≤ 4 cm and a normal contralateral kidney the decision to do OPN was considered elective. There were 10 additional operations in seven patients with Von Hippel‐Lindau (VHL) disease. In all, 21 OPNs were in the context of a single kidney.

RESULTS

In all, 95 OPNs were successfully completed; one operation was abandoned and there were four nephrectomies, including two for bleeding, one for a positive margin on frozen‐section analysis, and one for multifocal tumours. The median warm/cold ischaemia time was 20/33 min. The intraoperative/early complication rate was 36%, including a major complication rate of 11% and re‐operation rate for primary bleeding of 3%. Of 36 complications, 30 (83%) were in 23 patients with either an imperative indication or VHL. Complications were more common in the imperative/VHL group (59%) than in the elective/other group (12%). Renal function was preserved in 80 of 100 (80%) OPNs overall. Creatinine levels returned to baseline in 11 of 21 (50%) patients with renal impairment before OPN and in 12 of 20 (60%) with a single kidney, whilst five of 21 (24%) with a single kidney needed dialysis after OPN. The median (range) stay after surgery was 6 (3–50) nights. A malignant diagnosis was confirmed in 76 of 93 (82%) specimens on final histopathology. There were 11 of 100 (11%) positive margins, one managed by immediate conversion to nephrectomy and the remaining 10 managed expectantly. After a median (range) follow‐up of 24 (1–69) months there were no deaths from kidney cancer, but three patients had local recurrences and two others had developed metastatic recurrence.

CONCLUSION

OPN is complex surgery, especially in the imperative setting, but very good results are achievable outside established centres of world renown. It provides good cancer control in the short term with low renal morbidity. These results may act as a reference point in the UK by which to compare results of new treatments for kidney cancer.
Prostate stem cell antigen predicts tumour recurrence in superficial transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder
Authors: ELSAMMAN ESSAM , FUKUMORI TOMOHARU , KASAI TOSHINORI , NAKATSUJI HIROYOSHI , NISHITANI MASA‐AKI , TOIDA KAZUNORI , ALI NERMIN , KANAYAMA HIRO‐OMI
Published: May 2006

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the relationship between prostate stem cell antigen (PSCA) expression level in transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the urinary bladder and various clinicopathological features, including stage and grade; and to determine whether PSCA mRNA expression predicts disease recurrence in superficial (not muscle‐invasive) TCC of the bladder.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was performed on 97 TCC tissue samples and in 36 samples of normal bladder urothelium; the findings were analysed in relation to clinicopathological factors. Immunohistochemical expression was examined using light and confocal immunofluorescence microscopy to validate the RT‐PCR data.

RESULTS

Twenty‐seven patients developed disease recurrence, while the remaining 22 had no evidence of recurrence of superficial TCC of the bladder. There was significantly higher PSCA mRNA expression in TCC than in normal urothelium samples (P = 0.008). Superficial (TaT1) tumours had significantly higher PSCA expression than muscle‐invasive (≥ pT2) tumours (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between patients with G1–2 tumours and those with G3 tumours (P = 0.109). Immunohistochemical analysis showed markedly greater PSCA expression in superficial than invasive TCC. Notably, from a multivariate analysis, the expression level of PSCA was an independent predictor of disease recurrence in superficial TCC (P = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the PSCA expression level measured by real‐time RT‐PCR could be a valuable prognostic marker for tumour recurrence in superficial TCC of the bladder.
Loss of uroplakin III expression is associated with a poor prognosis in patients with urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract
Authors: OHTSUKA YUKIHIRO , KAWAKAMI SATORU , FUJII YASUHISA , KOGA FUMITAKA , SAITO KAZUTAKA , ANDO NOBORU , TAKIZAWA TOUICHIRO , KAGEYAMA YUKIO , KIHARA KAZUNORI
Published: May 2006

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between the expression of uroplakin III (UPIII) and the prognosis of patients with urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract, as uroplakins are urothelium‐specific markers of terminal urothelial differentiation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Clinicopathological and follow‐up data from 71 patients who had undergone radical nephroureterectomy and lymph node dissection or sampling for urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract were reviewed. The expression of UPIII was evaluated immunohistochemically in surgical specimens. Cancer‐specific survival was calculated using Kaplan–Meier plots. Prognostic values of clinicopathological variables including UPIII expression status, tumour stage and grade were evaluated by univariate analyses, followed by multivariate analysis using the Cox proportional‐hazard model.

RESULTS

In all specimens there was intense UPIII immunoreactivity of umbrella cells of normal urothelium. In tumour samples, UPIII expression was positive in 75% of ≤ pT1 tumours and 40% of ≥ pT2 (P = 0.02), and in 65% of grade 1–2 tumours and 33% of grade 3 (P = 0.009). Of the 71 patients, 21 died from the disease during the median follow‐up of 61 months. The cancer‐specific survival of patients with negative UPIII expression was significantly worse than that of those with positive UPIII expression (5‐year cancer‐specific survival, 100% vs 46%, P < 0.001). Neither patient age at diagnosis, histological grade, sex, or multiplicity of the tumour had significant prognostic value. Multivariate analysis revealed that UPIII expression was the most powerful prognostic indicator (P < 0.001) followed by tumour stage (P = 0.04) and lymph node metastasis (P = 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The present data suggest that UPIII expression is a powerful prognostic factor in patients with upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma.