bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
p38-MAPK Signals Survival by Phosphorylation of Caspase-8 and Caspase-3 in Human Neutrophils
Authors: Alvarado-Kristensson Maria , Melander Fredrik , Leandersson Karin , Rönnstrand Lars , Wernstedt Christer , Andersson Tommy
Published: February 2004

Neutrophil apoptosis occurs both in the bloodstream and in the tissue and is considered essential for the resolution of an inflammatory process. Here, we show that p38–mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) associates to caspase-8 and caspase-3 during neutrophil apoptosis and that p38-MAPK activity, previously shown to be a survival signal in these primary cells, correlates with the levels of caspase-8 and caspase-3 phosphorylation. In in vitro experiments, immunoprecipitated active p38-MAPK phosphorylated and inhibited the activity of the active p20 subunits of caspase-8 and caspase-3. Phosphopeptide mapping revealed that these phosphorylations occurred on serine-364 and serine-150, respectively. Introduction of mutated (S150A), but not wild-type, TAT-tagged caspase-3 into primary neutrophils made the Fas-induced apoptotic response insensitive to p38-MAPK inhibition. Consequently, p38-MAPK can directly phosphorylate and inhibit the activities of caspase-8 and caspase-3 and thereby hinder neutrophil apoptosis, and, in so doing, regulate the inflammatory response.
Identification of a Cytokine-induced Antiapoptotic Molecule Anamorsin Essential for Definitive Hematopoiesis
Authors: Shibayama Hirohiko , Takai Emi , Matsumura Itaru , Kouno Michiyoshi , Morii Eiichi , Kitamura Yukihiko , Takeda Junji , Kanakura Yuzuru
Published: February 2004

Many growth factors and cytokines prevent apoptosis. Using an expression cloning method, we identified a novel antiapoptotic molecule named Anamorsin, which does not show any homology to known apoptosis regulatory molecules such as Bcl-2 family, caspase family, or signal transduction molecules. The expression of Anamorsin was completely dependent on stimulation with growth factors such as interleukin 3, stem cell factor, and thrombopoietin in factor-dependent hematopoietic cell lines, and forced expression of Anamorsin conferred resistance to apoptosis caused by growth factor deprivation in vitro. Furthermore, Anamorsin was found to act as an antiapoptotic molecule in vivo because Anamorsin−/− mice die in late gestation due to defective definitive hematopoiesis in the fetal liver (FL). Although the number of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells in the FL did not decrease in these mice, myeloid, and particularly erythroid colony formation in response to cytokines, was severely disrupted. Also, Anamorsin−/− erythroid cells initiated apoptosis during terminal maturation. As for the mechanism of Anamorsin-mediated cell survival, a microarray analysis revealed that the expression of Bcl-xL and Jak2 was severely impaired in the FL of Anamorsin−/− mice. Thus, Anamorsin is considered to be a necessary molecule for hematopoiesis that mediates antiapoptotic effects of various cytokines.
Activation of Natural Killer Cells and Dendritic Cells upon Recognition of a Novel CD99-like Ligand by Paired Immunoglobulin-like Type 2 Receptor
Authors: Shiratori Ikuo , Ogasawara Kouetsu , Saito Takashi , Lanier Lewis L. , Arase Hisashi
Published: February 2004

Paired receptors that consist of highly related activating and inhibitory receptors are widely involved in the regulation of the immune system. Here, we report a mouse orthologue of the human activating paired immunoglobulin-like type 2 receptor (PILR) β, which was cloned from a cDNA library of natural killer (NK) cells based on its ability to associate with the DAP12 signaling adaptor protein. The activating PILRβ was expressed not only on NK cells but also on dendritic cells and macrophages. Furthermore, we have identified a novel CD99-like molecule as a ligand for the activating PILRβ and inhibitory PILRα receptors. Transcripts of PILR ligand are present in many tissues, including some T cell lines. Cells expressing the PILR ligand specifically activated NK cells and dendritic cells that express the activating PILRβ. Our findings reveal a new regulatory mechanism of innate immunity by PILR and its CD99-like ligand.
The Multiassembly Problem: Reconstructing Multiple Transcript Isoforms From EST Fragment Mixtures
Authors: Xing Yi , Resch Alissa , Lee Christopher
Published: February 2004

Recent evidence of abundant transcript variation (e.g., alternative splicing, alternative initiation, alternative polyadenylation) in complex genomes indicates that cataloging the complete set of transcripts from an organism is an important project. One challenge is the fact that most high-throughput experimental methods for characterizing transcripts (such as EST sequencing) give highly detailed information about short fragments of transcripts or protein products, instead of a complete characterization of a full-length form. We analyze this “multiassembly problem”—reconstructing the most likely set of full-length isoform sequences from a mixture of EST fragment data—and present a graph-based algorithm for solving it. In a variety of tests, we demonstrate that this algorithm deals appropriately with coupling of distinct alternative splicing events, increasing fragmentation of the input data and different types of transcript variation (such as alternative splicing, initiation, polyadenylation, and intron retention). To test the method's performance on pure fragment (EST) data, we removed all mRNA sequences, and found it produced no errors in 40 cases tested. Using this algorithm, we have constructed an Alternatively Spliced Proteins database (ASP) from analysis of human expressed and genomic sequences, consisting of 13,384 protein isoforms of 4422 genes, yielding an average of 3.0 protein isoforms per gene.
Numerous Novel Annotations of the Human Genome Sequence Supported by a 5′-End–Enriched cDNA Collection
Authors: Porcel Betina M. , Delfour Olivier , Castelli Vanina , De Berardinis Veronique , Friedlander Lucie , Cruaud Corinne , Ureta-Vidal Abel , Scarpelli Claude , Wincker Patrick , Schächter Vincent , Saurin William , Gyapay Gabor , Salanoubat Marcel , Weissenbach Jean
Published: February 2004

A collection of 90,000 human cDNA clones generated to increase the fraction of “full-length” cDNAs available was analyzed by sequence alignment on the human genome assembly. Five hundred fifty-two gene models not found in LocusLink, with coding regions of at least 300 bp, were defined by using this collection. Exon composition proposed for novel genes showed an average of 4.7 exons per gene. In 20% of the cases, at least half of the exons predicted for new genes coincided with evolutionary conserved regions defined by sequence comparisons with the pufferfish Tetraodon nigroviridis. Among this subset, CpG islands were observed at the 5′ end of 75%. In-frame stop codons upstream of the initiator ATG were present in 49% of the new genes, and 16% contained a coding region comprising at least 50% of the cDNA sequence. This cDNA resource also provided candidate small protein-coding genes, usually not included in genome annotations. In addition, analysis of a sample from this cDNA collection indicates that ∼380 gene models described in LocusLink could be extended at their 5′ end by at least one new exon. Finally, this cDNA resource provided an experimental support for annotations based exclusively on predictions, thus representing a resource substantially improving the human genome annotation.
Correct Estimation of Preferential Chromosome Pairing in Autotetraploids
Authors: Cao Dachuang , Osborn Thomas C. , Doerge Rebecca W.
Published: February 2004

In recent work, a statistical model was proposed for the purpose of estimating parameters associated with quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping and preferential pairing within a polyploidy framework. The statistical model contained several parameters that, when estimated from experimental data, supplied information about QTL, including a preferential pairing factor. Among the results reported were estimates of preferential pairing, many of which indicated high levels of preferential pairing (p = 0.60) that were inconsistent with biological expectations. By using the biological inconsistencies as our motivation, we present a reformulated statistical method for estimating preferential pairing, and use this method to reanalyze the same autotetraploid alfalfa data and to conduct a simulation study. Our results directly contradict the current findings of significant preferential pairing and affirm the traditional view of random chromosome segregation in alfalfa.
Development and Application of a Salmonid EST Database and cDNA Microarray: Data Mining and Interspecific Hybridization Characteristics
Authors: Rise Matthew L. , von Schalburg Kristian R. , Brown Gordon D. , Mawer Melanie A. , Devlin Robert H. , Kuipers Nathanael , Busby Maura , Beetz-Sargent Marianne , Alberto Roberto , Gibbs A. Ross , Hunt Peter , Shukin Robert , Zeznik Jeffrey A. , Nelson Colleen , Jones Simon R.M. , Smailus Duane E. , Jones Steven J.M. , Schein Jacqueline E. , Marra Marco A. , Butterfield Yaron S.N. , Stott Jeff M. , Ng Siemon H.S. , Davidson William S. , Koop Ben F.
Published: February 2004

We report 80,388 ESTs from 23 Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) cDNA libraries (61,819 ESTs), 6 rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) cDNA libraries (14,544 ESTs), 2 chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) cDNA libraries (1317 ESTs), 2 sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) cDNA libraries (1243 ESTs), and 2 lake whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis) cDNA libraries (1465 ESTs). The majority of these are 3′ sequences, allowing discrimination between paralogs arising from a recent genome duplication in the salmonid lineage. Sequence assembly reveals 28,710 different S. salar, 8981 O. mykiss, 1085 O. tshawytscha, 520 O. nerka, and 1176 C. clupeaformis putative transcripts. We annotate the submitted portion of our EST database by molecular function. Higher- and lower-molecular-weight fractions of libraries are shown to contain distinct gene sets, and higher rates of gene discovery are associated with higher-molecular weight libraries. Pyloric caecum library group annotations indicate this organ may function in redox control and as a barrier against systemic uptake of xenobiotics. A microarray is described, containing 7356 salmonid elements representing 3557 different cDNAs. Analyses of cross-species hybridizations to this cDNA microarray indicate that this resource may be used for studies involving all salmonids.
Anomalies in the Expression Profile of Interspecific Hybrids of Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila simulans
Authors: Ranz José M. , Namgyal Kalsang , Gibson Greg , Hartl Daniel L.
Published: February 2004

When females of Drosophila melanogaster and males of Drosophila simulans are mated, the male progeny are inviable, whereas the female progeny display manifold malformations and are sterile. These abnormalities result from genetic incompatibilities accumulated since the time the lineages of the species diverged, and may have their origin in aberrant gene transcription. Because compensatory changes within species may obscure differences at the regulatory level in conventional comparisons of the expression profile between species, we have compared the gene-expression profile of hybrid females with those of females of the parental species in order to identify regulatory incompatibilities. In the hybrid females, we find abnormal levels of messenger RNA for a large fraction of the Drosophila transcriptome. These include a gross underexpression of genes preferentially expressed in females, accompanying gonadal atrophy. The hybrid females also show significant overexpression of male-biased genes, which we attribute to incompatibilities in the regulatory mechanisms that normally act to control the expression of these genes in females. The net result of the multiple incompatibilities is that the gene-expression profiles of the parental females are more similar to each other than either is to that of the hybrid.
Auxin from the Developing Inflorescence Is Required for the Biosynthesis of Active Gibberellins in Barley Stems
Authors: Wolbang Carla M. , Chandler Peter M. , Smith Jennifer J. , Ross John J.
Published: February 2004

Multiple gibberellins (GAs) were quantified in the stems of intact, decapitated, and decapitated auxin-treated barley (Hordeum vulgare) plants. Removal of the developing inflorescence reduced the endogenous levels of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), GA1, and GA3 and increased the level of GA29 in internodal and nodal tissues below the site of excision. Application of IAA to the excised stump restored GA levels to normal in almost all cases. The conversion of [14C]GA20 to bioactive [14C]GA1 and of [14C]GA5 to bioactive [14C]GA3 was reduced by decapitation, and IAA application was able to restore conversion rates back to the levels found in intact plants. The amount of mRNA for the principal vegetative 3-oxidase (converting GA20 to GA1, and GA5 to GA3) was decreased in decapitated plants and restored by IAA application. The results indicate that the inflorescence of barley is a source of IAA that is transported basipetally into the internodes and nodes where bioactive GA1 and GA3 are biosynthesized. Thus, IAA is required for normal GA biosynthesis in stems, acting at multiple steps in the latter part of the pathway.
Hyperaccumulation of Cadmium and Zinc in Thlaspi caerulescens and Arabidopsis halleri at the Leaf Cellular Level
Authors: Cosio Claudia , Martinoia Enrico , Keller Catherine
Published: February 2004

Vacuolar compartmentalization or cell wall binding in leaves could play a major role in hyperaccumulation of heavy metals. However, little is known about the physiology of intracellular cadmium (Cd) sequestration in plants. We investigated the role of the leaf cells in allocating metal in hyperaccumulating plants by measuring short-term 109Cd and 65Zn uptake in mesophyll protoplasts of Thlaspi caerulescens “Ganges” and Arabidopsis halleri, both hyperaccumulators of zinc (Zn) and Cd, and T. caerulescens “Prayon,” accumulating Cd at a lower degree. The effects of low temperature, several divalent cations, and pre-exposure of the plants to metals were investigated. There was no significant difference between the Michaelis-Menten kinetic constants of the three plants. It indicates that differences in metal uptake cannot be explained by different constitutive transport capacities at the leaf protoplast level and that plasma and vacuole membranes of mesophyll cells are not responsible for the differences observed in heavy metal allocation. This suggests the existence of regulation mechanisms before the plasma membrane of leaf mesophyll protoplasts. However, pre-exposure of the plants to Cd induced an increase in Cd accumulation in protoplasts of “Ganges,” whereas it decreased Cd accumulation in A. halleri protoplasts, indicating that Cd-permeable transport proteins are differentially regulated. The experiment with competitors has shown that probably more than one single transport system is carrying Cd in parallel into the cell and that in T. caerulescens “Prayon,” Cd could be transported by a Zn and Ca pathway, whereas in “Ganges,” Cd could be transported mainly by other pathways.
Temporal Dynamics of Carbon Partitioning and Rhizodeposition in Wheat
Authors: Dilkes Nigel B. , Jones David L. , Farrar John
Published: February 2004

The temporal dynamics of partitioning and rhizodeposition of recent photosynthate in wheat (Triticum aestivum) roots were quantified in situ in solution culture. After a 30-min pulse of 14CO2 to a single intact leaf, 14C activities of individual carbon fluxes in the root, including exudation, respiration, and root content, were measured continuously over the next 20 h concurrently with 14C efflux from the leaf. Immediately after the end of the 14CO2 pulse, 14C activity was detected in the root, the hydroponic solution, and in root respiration. The rate of 14C exudation from the root was maximal after 2 to 3 h, and declined to one-third of maximum after a further 5 h. Completion of the rapid phase of 14C efflux from the leaf coincided with peak 14C exudation rate. Thus, exudation flux is much more rapidly and dynamically coupled to current photosynthesis than has been appreciated. Careful cross-calibration of 14C counting methods allowed a dynamic 14C budget to be constructed for the root. Cumulative 14C exudation after 20 h was around 3% of 14C fixed in photosynthesis. Partitioning of photosynthate between shoot and root was manipulated by partial defoliation before applying the 14CO2 pulse to the remaining intact leaf. Although the rate of photosynthesis was largely unaffected by partial defoliation, the proportion of new photosynthate subsequently partitioned to and exuded from the root was substantially reduced. This clearly indicates that exudation depends more on the rate of carbon import into the root than on the rate of photosynthesis.
Arabidopsis Type B Monogalactosyldiacylglycerol Synthase Genes Are Expressed during Pollen Tube Growth and Induced by Phosphate Starvation
Authors: Kobayashi Koichi , Awai Koichiro , Takamiya Ken-ichiro , Ohta Hiroyuki
Published: February 2004

The galactolipids monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG) and digalactosyldiacylglycerol (DGDG) constitute the major glycolipids of the thylakoid membranes in chloroplasts. In Arabidopsis, the formation of MGDG is catalyzed by a family of three MGDG synthases, which are encoded by two types of genes, namely type A (atMGD1) and type B (atMGD2 and atMGD3). Although the roles of the type A enzyme have been intensively investigated in several plants, little is known about the contribution of type B enzymes to MGDG synthesis in planta. From our previous analyses, unique expression profiles of the three MGDG synthase genes were revealed in various organs and developmental stages. To characterize the expression profiles in more detail, we performed histochemical analysis of these genes using β-glucuronidase (GUS) assays in Arabidopsis. The expression of atMGD1::GUS was detected highly in all green tissues, whereas the expression of atMGD2::GUS and atMGD3::GUS was observed only in restricted parts, such as leaf tips. In addition, intense staining was detected in pollen grains of all transformants. We also detected GUS activity in the pollen tubes of atMGD2::GUS and atMGD3::GUS transformants grown in wild-type stigmas but not in atMGD1::GUS, suggesting that type B MGDG synthases may have roles during pollen germination and pollen tube growth. GUS analysis also revealed that expression of atMGD2 and atMGD3, but not atMGD1, are strongly induced during phosphate starvation, particularly in roots. Because only DGDG accumulates in roots during phosphate deprivation, type B MGDG synthases may be acting primarily to supply MGDG as a precursor for DGDG synthesis.
PvUPS1, an Allantoin Transporter in Nodulated Roots of French Bean
Authors: Pélissier Hélène C. , Frerich Anke , Desimone Marcelo , Schumacher Karin , Tegeder Mechthild
Published: February 2004

Nodulated legumes receive their nitrogen via nitrogen-fixing rhizobia, which exist in a symbiotic relationship with the root system. In tropical legumes like French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) or soybean (Glycine max), most of the fixed nitrogen is used for synthesis of the ureides allantoin and allantoic acid, the major long-distance transport forms of organic nitrogen in these species. The purpose of this investigation was to identify a ureide transporter that would allow us to further characterize the mechanisms regulating ureide partitioning in legume roots. A putative allantoin transporter (PvUPS1) was isolated from nodulated roots of French bean and was functionally characterized in an allantoin transport-deficient yeast mutant showing that PvUPS1 transports allantoin but also binds its precursors xanthine and uric acid. In beans, PvUPS1 was expressed throughout the plant body, with strongest expression in nodulated roots, source leaves, pods, and seed coats. In roots, PvUPS1 expression was dependent on the status of nodulation, with highest expression in nodules and roots of nodulated plants compared with non-nodulated roots supplied with ammonium nitrate or allantoin. In situ RNA hybridization localized PvUPS1 to the nodule endodermis and the endodermis and phloem of the nodule vasculature. These results strengthen our prediction that in bean nodules, PvUPS1 is involved in delivery of allantoin to the vascular bundle and loading into the nodule phloem.
Wounding Enhances Expression of AtSUC3, a Sucrose Transporter from Arabidopsis Sieve Elements and Sink Tissues
Authors: Meyer Stefan , Lauterbach Christian , Niedermeier Matthias , Barth Inga , Sjolund Richard D. , Sauer Norbert
Published: February 2004

The Arabidopsis AtSUC3 gene encodes a sucrose (Suc) transporter that differs in size and intron number from all other Arabidopsis Suc transport proteins. Each plant species analyzed so far possesses one transporter of this special type, and several functions have been discussed for these proteins, including the catalysis of transmembrane Suc transport, and also Suc sensing and regulation of other Suc transporters. Here, we show that the AtSUC3 protein is localized in the sieve elements of the Arabidopsis phloem and is not colocalized with the companion cell-specific AtSUC2 phloem loader. Even stronger AtSUC3 expression is observed in numerous sink cells and tissues, such as guard cells, trichomes, germinating pollen, root tips, the developing seed coat, or stipules. Moreover, AtSUC3 expression is strongly induced upon wounding of Arabidopsis tissue. The physiological role of AtSUC3 in these different cells and tissues is discussed.
Lipoic Acid-Dependent Oxidative Catabolism of α-Keto Acids in Mitochondria Provides Evidence for Branched-Chain Amino Acid Catabolism in Arabidopsis
Authors: Taylor Nicolas L. , Heazlewood Joshua L. , Day David A. , Millar A. Harvey
Published: February 2004

Lipoic acid-dependent pathways of α-keto acid oxidation by mitochondria were investigated in pea (Pisum sativum), rice (Oryza sativa), and Arabidopsis. Proteins containing covalently bound lipoic acid were identified on isoelectric focusing/sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis separations of mitochondrial proteins by the use of antibodies raised to this cofactor. All these proteins were identified by tandem mass spectrometry. Lipoic acid-containing acyltransferases from pyruvate dehydrogenase complex and α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex were identified from all three species. In addition, acyltransferases from the branched-chain dehydrogenase complex were identified in both Arabidopsis and rice mitochondria. The substrate-dependent reduction of NAD+ was analyzed by spectrophotometry using specific α-keto acids. Pyruvate- and α-ketoglutarate-dependent reactions were measured in all three species. Activity of the branched-chain dehydrogenase complex was only measurable in Arabidopsis mitochondria using substrates that represented the α-keto acids derived by deamination of branched-chain amino acids (Val [valine], leucine, and isoleucine). The rate of branched-chain amino acid- and α-keto acid-dependent oxygen consumption by intact Arabidopsis mitochondria was highest with Val and the Val-derived α-keto acid, α-ketoisovaleric acid. Sequencing of peptides derived from trypsination of Arabidopsis mitochondrial proteins revealed the presence of many of the enzymes required for the oxidation of all three branched-chain amino acids. The potential role of branched-chain amino acid catabolism as an oxidative phosphorylation energy source or as a detoxification pathway during plant stress is discussed.
Student preferences for purchase given limited library budgets
Authors: Condic Kristine
Published: February 2004

Many librarians are struggling to maintain high‐quality collections given limited funding and budget constraints. It has become necessary for librarians to set priorities on the development of book, journal, and electronic journal collections since libraries cannot afford to “have it all”. What would students decide under similar conditions? During March 2002, a survey was distributed to a number of education students at Oakland University to determine the types of materials they would purchase given limited funding. In addition, they were asked about their satisfaction level regarding the present book, journal, and electronic journal collections within the library. Information on class standing and previous library instruction was also obtained. Results from 243 participants indicated that students are fairly satisfied with the collections. Overall, they were more likely to prefer purchase of electronic formats. In addition, students who had previous library instruction are more likely to use electronic journals than those without library instruction.
2003 Poets House Showcase: suggested titles
Authors: Abrams Jen , Kindseth Tim
Published: February 2004

Describes Poetry in the Branches, a multi‐layered, replicable program model, devised by Poets House, New York, to foster the link between librarians, the public and the living tradition of poetry. Provides a comprehensive list of titles of contemporary poetry collections by single authors and anthologies.
Users’ levels of satisfaction with reserve collection services in a state university library in Nigeria
Authors: Adomi Esharenana E. , Iwhiwhu Basil E.
Published: February 2004

This is a survey of users’ levels of satisfaction with reserve collection services at Delta State University Library, Abraka, Nigeria. By means of a questionnaire, data were collected. Findings revealed the personal characteristics of the respondents and their levels of satisfaction with reserve collection, loan policy, staff, condition of reading room, opening hours and the time it takes to serve users. The paper concludes by making recommendations for improvement.
Innovative systems
Authors: Rudall B.H.
Published: February 2004

This paper presents reports and surveys of selective innovative research in systems and cybernetics. They include: biocybernetics, thought‐controlled machines, advances in nanotechnology, technological initiatives, innovations worldwide.
Learning systems
Authors: Alam Choudhury Masudul
Published: February 2004

Learning systems are characterized by distinctive properties of complementarities between variables and their relations in reference to the epistemology of unity of knowledge. Such learning systems are in contrast to the methods of optimization and steady‐state equilibrium as opposed to simulation methods. The distinctive analytical properties of learning systems relate to evolutionary general equilibrium states. Here disequilibrium systems are also considered. In all the cases, the essential goal of explaining and using the properties of evolutionary general equilibrium systems with pervasive complementarities within and across systems are shown to establish these distinctive conceptual and applied implications of analysis.
How to restore Bertalanffian systems thinking
Authors: Mulej Matjaz , Potocan Vojko , Zenko Zdenka , Kajzer Stefan , Ursic Dusko , Knez‐Riedl Jozica , Lynn Monty , Ovsenik Jozef
Published: February 2004

Ludwig von Bertalanffy created general systems theory in an effort to counter the oversight and endangerment of humankind by disciplinary specialization. Bertalanffy desired for a holistic worldview and openness to replace overspecialization. Although widely cited and regarded, his concept prevailed only at a fictitious level, mostly as a tool inside specialization, which many scholars are neither able to overcome nor complement with interdisciplinary, creative co‐operation. Similarities (isomorphisms) are not enough. Here, a system of seven groups of systems thinking principles, which serve as a framework for restoring Bertalanffian systems thinking without his exaggerations is presented.
On the complex problem: a study of interactive management
Authors: Tuan Nien‐Tsu
Published: February 2004

This paper attempts to explicate the characteristics of the complex problem per se. By reflecting upon several lofty philosophies, this paper argues that a complex problem consists of two parts: human's incapacity of mental power and human's cognitive dissonance. Grounded in these presumptions, this paper will illustrate that the conventional engineering approach, which primarily rests on a single observer's favourable model, is inadequate to cope with the complex issue. By reviewing several prevailing soft approaches, this paper promotes interactive management (IM) as a useful methodology for intervening in the complex problem. A case study of employing IM in a South African media context is given to demonstrate its usage.
A computational approach to the wave equations
Authors: Inc M. , Cherruault Y. , Abbaoui K.
Published: February 2004

Studies an analytic solution and a reliable numerical approximation of linear and non‐linear wave equations by using the Adomian decomposition method. The solution is calculated in the form of a series with easily computable components. The non‐homogeneous problem is quickly solved by observing the self‐cancelling “noise terms” where the sum of the components vanishes in the limit. Several linear or non‐linear partial differential equations are considered and their numerical approximate solutions are compared with its numerical analytic solutions by applying the Adomian decomposition method and using a computer algebraic system (MATLAB). The numerical results show the effectiveness of the method for these types of equations.
Combination method of rough set and genetic programming
Authors: Hassan Yasser , Tazaki Eiichiro
Published: February 2004

A methodology for using rough set for preference modeling in decision problem is presented in this paper; where we will introduce a new approach for deriving knowledge rules from database based on rough set combined with genetic programming. Genetic programming belongs to the most new techniques in applications of artificial intelligence. Rough set theory, which emerged about 20 years back, is nowadays a rapidly developing branch of artificial intelligence and soft computing. At the first glance, the two methodologies that we discuss are not in common. Rough set construct is the representation of knowledge in terms of attributes, semantic decision rules, etc. On the contrary, genetic programming attempts to automatically create computer programs from a high‐level statement of the problem requirements. But, in spite of these differences, it is interesting to try to incorporate both the approaches into a combined system. The challenge is to obtain as much as possible from this association.
Application of the Adomian method for solving a class of boundary problems
Authors: Benabidallah Mohamed , Cherruault Yves
Published: February 2004

This paper considers the numerical solution of a class of boundary problems using the Adomian decomposition method. The method is applied to non‐linear differential equations with initial and boundary conditions. Concludes that this method produces very good results.
Estimation of feature vectors in object recognition processing
Authors: Ruiz D. , Pujol F.A. , García Chamizo J.M. , Pujol M. , Rizo R.
Published: February 2004

In most conventional pattern recognition methods, the first step is extracting features from objects. These features are always expressed in the form of feature vectors. Then, the distribution of feature vectors is estimated for each category. Finally, an unknown input pattern is assigned to the category with the maximum probability. In this work, we present a system that is able to recognize objects according to the likeness of feature vectors. A database, which consists of images that were identified from a vector of related features, is used by the system to discover these objects. If the resulting image features are compared with the ones included in the database, we obtain the object that has the highest similarity with the one we proposed. The probability of success using our feature vector has been very high.
Performance appraisal decision in Malaysian public service
Authors: Ahmad Rusli , Azman Ali Nur
Published: February 2004

This article explores raters' understanding on the decision‐making process in the public service performance appraisal system (PAS) by looking at the cognitive processing models (CPM) steps involved. Presents the results of semi‐structured cognitive mapping interviews undertaken with novice raters in the Malaysia public service (MPS) context. Interviews were conducted using cognitive mapping protocol. The resultant causal cognitive maps explored findings from CPM applied in appraisal decision making. Explains the performance appraisal process and theoretical framework for the CPM. From the research findings, it is clear that raters recognised the CPM steps in their performance appraisal practice. The study also identifies individual differences in novice raters' CPM in terms of concepts and complexity. The findings are used to validate the CPM concepts suggested in related literature. Finally, the study discusses the implications of CPM in a broader context of performance appraisal decision‐making process.
Regeneration, rhetoric, and the NHS: the case of The Vital Connection
Authors: Hamilton Peter
Published: February 2004

The article focuses on the regeneration section of the National Health Service (NHS) document The Vital Connection. Regeneration is an issue new to the NHS and so the article examines the manner in which the text on regeneration is rhetorically constructed. Specifically the article's argument is that the rhetorical dimensions of the document are important in the attempt to convince an audience that the NHS is serious in its regeneration aims. The article goes on to rhetorically analyse the talk of two senior NHS human resource managers talking together about their NHS organisation's capacity and capability in relation to regeneration. In both the analysis of the framework document and the managers' talk. the rhetorical analysis focuses on the importance of the use of the example, the appeal through ethos and the trope of synecdoche in constructing the rhetoric of the text and talk of each.
Privatisation and the European Union
Authors: Burnes Bernard , Katsouros Michael , Jones Trefor
Published: February 2004

Over the last 20 to 30 years, privatisation has become a world‐wide phenomenon. This article explores the rationale for and changing nature of privatisation. In particular, it draws attention to the range of definitions of “privatisation” and the differing views on its effectiveness in providing improved services to consumers. The main focus of the article is a study of the privatisation of the Public Power Corporation (PPC) of Greece. Examines why and how it was privatised and discusses its future as a private enterprise. It shows that the structure and operation of the privatised PPC and the liberalisation of the Greek electricity market were, and will continue to be, determined principally by the EU's commitment to free market competition.
Process management in the public sector
Authors: Ongaro Edoardo
Published: February 2004

Process management is a managerial approach characterised by the focus on business processes that can provide an important contribution to the management of public sector organisations. The significance of this approach for the management of inter‐organisational relations in the public sector is highlighted. A model for the analysis of the factors enabling the implementation of process management in the public sector is proposed. The Italian experience of the one‐stop shops for businesses is studied; the relevance of process management approaches for the success of this reform is shown. Implications for public managers at all levels of government are discussed.
Situational, consumer, and retailer factors affecting Internet, catalog, and store shopping
Authors: Gehrt Kenneth C. , Yan Ruoh‐Nan
Published: February 2004

Most research related to consumer choice of retailers emphasizes retailer attributes and/or consumer characteristics. Since many retail formats, including online retailing, have emerged in recent years, knowledge of how consumers select retail formats must be updated. A source of influence that has been examined to a very limited extent for store retailers but not for emerging retail formats is situational influence. From a modern interactionism perspective, this study investigates the influence of situational as well as consumer and retailer factors on preference for online, catalog, and store formats. Key results show that situational factors have significant influence on online and catalog format selection and perceptions of attributes that are crucial to that selection.
Information technology: changing the face of automotive retailing?
Authors: Reed Gary , Story Vicky , Saker Jim
Published: February 2004

The purchase of a car is a highly involved process when compared with other retail experiences. Despite the range of purchase channels available and the increased level of accessible information, the majority of customers still choose to buy a car through a traditional dealer network. The sales process, which is often seen as adversarial, involves a high level of personal interaction and has remained relatively unchanged through the industry’s 100 year history. This paper examines the impact of the introduction of a computer assisted selling process on customers’ perceptions of the overall buying process. This pilot study was undertaken prior to the system’s global roll out and incorporated a range of research methods: CCTV observation, customer and staff interviews. The preliminary findings indicated that the computer assisted buying process was well received by customers.
Linking practices reflective of “Asian values” and relationship marketing in the grocery distribution channels in Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Roslin Rosmimah , Melewar T.C.
Published: February 2004

The paper focuses on the assessment of practices reflective of relationship marketing and those that can be associated with “Asian values”. The argument that is often put forward is whether there really exists what can be regarded as “Asian values” since there are no common values in life that can be adopted by all Asian societies and with which all in this region can be identified. Yet, the term “Asian values” is still widely used to depict Asians’ attitudes in general, their beliefs and the way they work. This study, therefore, explores current practices among members in the Malaysian grocery distribution channels that may indicate elements of relationship marketing or work practices commonly associated with “Asian values”.
Walking with dinosaurs: general trading companies in the reorganization of Japanese consumer goods distribution
Authors: Meyer‐Ohle Hendrik
Published: February 2004

With the Japanese economy going through a period of prolonged stagnation many of its established institutions have to redefine themselves. Among these are General Trading Companies (sôgô shôsha), which have traditionally occupied a prominent place in the Japanese economy and are currently trying to increase their role in the Japanese retail sector. This paper explores this development at an early stage by outlining the relationships between General Trading Companies and the retail sector and providing a closer discussion of the most prominent feature within this development: the take‐over of two leading convenience store chains by General Trading Companies.
Radial basis function collocation method solution of natural convection in porous media
Authors: Šarler Božidar , Perko Janez , Chen Ching‐Shyang
Published: February 2004

This paper describes the solution of a steady‐state natural convection problem in porous media by the radial basis function collocation method (RBFCM). This mesh‐free (polygon‐free) numerical method is for a coupled set of mass, momentum, and energy equations in two dimensions structured by the Hardy's multiquadrics with different shape parameter and different order of polynomial augmentation. The solution is formulated in primitive variables and involves iterative treatment of coupled pressure, velocity, pressure correction, velocity correction, and energy equations. Numerical examples include convergence studies with different collocation point density and arrangements for a two‐dimensional differentially heated rectangular cavity problem at filtration Rayleigh numbers Ra*=25, 50 and 100, and aspect ratios A=1/2, 1, and 2. The solution is assessed by comparison with reference results of the fine‐mesh finite volume method in terms of mid‐plane velocity components, mid‐plane and insulated surface temperatures, streamfunction minimum, and Nusselt number.
Multiple solutions and stability of confined convective and swirling flows – a continuing challenge
Authors: Gelfgat Alexander Yu. , Bar‐Yoseph Pinhas Z.
Published: February 2004

Our recent results on stability and multiplicity of flow states for confined flows of an incompressible Newtonian fluid are surveyed. The considered laminar flows are caused by either thermal, mechanical, or electromagnetic effects and beyond the stability limit exhibit multiplicity of stable, steady or oscillatory, asymptotic states. Stability diagrams as well as examples of multiple flow states are given. It is concluded that beyond the critical value of the characteristic non‐dimensional parameter, and below the threshold to stochastic or turbulent state, multiple stable asymptotic flow states can be expected. This means that at such flow regimes, any computational (experimental) result may be strongly dependent on its initial condition and/or computational (experimental) path. Uncertainties of experimental and numerical modeling, which follow from this conclusion, are discussed. The global spectral Galerkin method using divergence free basis functions has been employed for the spatial approximation of the velocity and temperature fields. Several numerical experiments were performed comparing the present and other formulations, each of which confirmed the computational efficiency of the present approach over other classical numerical methods.
Enterprise systems and ongoing process change
Authors: Davenport Thomas H. , Harris Jeanne G. , Cantrell Susan
Published: February 2004

Enterprise systems packages have long been associated with process change. However, it was assumed that most organizations would simultaneously design and implement process change while implementing the systems. A survey of 163 organizations and detailed interviews with 28 more suggests that enterprise systems were still being implemented even among early adopters of the technology, and that process change was being undertaken on an ongoing basis. After the prerequisites of time, critical mass of functionality, and significant expenditures were taken care of, the factors most associated with achieving value from enterprise systems were integration, process optimization, and use of enterprise‐systems data in decision making.
Best practices in e‐business process management
Authors: Kim Henry M. , Ramkaran Rajani
Published: February 2004

In formulating e‐business strategies enabled by the Internet and WWW, parallels can be drawn from the viewpoint on process enabled by desktop and centralized computing in the 1990s, and that of present day. In this paper, the cornerstone of 1990s thinking on process, Hammer and Champy's nine best practices, are analyzed to apply for e‐business process management (e‐process management). For instance, Hammer and Champy's first principle is re‐stated as “[o]rganize around business rules (some combined tasks can be performed by stakeholders using interfaces accessed via the WWW)”. One finding is that checks and controls may not need to be reduced – as Hammer and Champy espouse – if they are perceived as valuable and can be performed inexpensively using Internet technologies. This work evolves the traditional re‐engineering framework to use in current e‐business realities; it can be applied to formulate e‐business strategies that are rooted in more traditional, and vetted, management thinking.
Business development with electronic commerce: refinement and repositioning
Authors: Aldin Niklas , Brehmer Per‐Olof , Johansson Anders
Published: February 2004

Electronic commerce enables business development for marketing channel intermediaries and strengthens their existing operations and strategic management. This research shows that electronic commerce provides stepwise business development refinement and repositioning in the form of process change and increased customer service. Based on marketing and logistics literature, a business development model with three developmental phases is proposed in this paper. The findings are based on the electronic commerce development of three intermediaries providing industrial products and services in the northern European market. Refinement is achieved through a focus on activities for internal efficiency, and through changing processes for increased integration, shorter time and lower costs. Repositioning involves extended focus on service improvements, image and customer tailored services. It is found that electronic commerce has not radically reshaped and developed the role of marketing channel intermediaries. Instead, it has strengthened existing business. Future electronic commerce efforts need to be viewed in a business wide development context, including structural change and reaching new segments or markets, to utilise fully the development potential of electronic commerce.
A success factor model for electronic markets
Authors: Fairchild A.M. , Ribbers P.M.A. , Nooteboom A.O.
Published: February 2004

Although many electronic markets have opened up, adoption of electronic marketplaces worldwide has been lower than expected. It is still unclear what the exact effects of electronic markets are, how they emerge, and what markets will eventually turn out to be the most successful in the industry. Several consultancy firms, e.g. Forrester, Merrill Lynch, and Morgan Stanley, have made statements on success factors of electronic markets, such as acquiring domain expertise, and a critical mass of users. However, none of those has been empirically studied. Because of the high failure rate of electronic markets, this research tries to identify specific factors that might be crucial for electronic market success. Through a literature review of previous research, an exploratory research model is developed to specify the success factors. Case study examples are used to assess the validity of the research model and illustrate the economic effects that could be experienced by both the electronic market itself, and by buyers and sellers, focusing on the conditions under which electronic markets are likely to fail or are likely to be a success.
An empirical study of business processes across Internet‐based electronic marketplaces
Authors: Grieger Martin
Published: February 2004

After the dot‐com breakdown in 2001, Internet‐based electronic marketplaces (IEMPs) continue to be the most promising interorganizational information systems allowing firms to integrate with suppliers and customers. They have emerged in various industries, supporting the exchange of goods and services of different kinds, within and across supply chains, and are following different architectural principles. The paper discusses the use of IEMPs to manage processes across the supply chain based on a critical literature review and a case study research approach. In order to illustrate different views within an IEMP supply‐chain network, three industry case studies – the chemical, retail and maritime industries – were conducted. Several interviews with both IEMP users and market makers were completed. The outcome gives a state of the art of IEMP usage for managing business processes across the supply chain, discloses gaps and describes different IEMP industry approaches.