bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polarity and proliferation are controlled by distinct signaling pathways downstream of PI3-kinase in breast epithelial tumor cells
Authors: Liu Hong , Radisky Derek C. , Wang Fei , Bissell Mina J.
Published: February 2004

Loss of tissue polarity and increased proliferation are the characteristic alterations of the breast tumor phenotype. To investigate these processes, we used a three-dimensional (3D) culture system in which malignant human breast cells can be reverted to a normal phenotype by exposure to inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K). Using this assay, we find that Akt and Rac1 act as downstream effectors of PI3K and function as control points of cellular proliferation and tissue polarity, respectively. Our results also demonstrate that the PI3K signaling pathway is an integral component of the overall signaling network induced by growth in 3D, as reversion affected by inhibition of PI3K signaling also down-modulates the endogenous levels of β1 integrin and epidermal growth factor receptor, the upstream modulators of PI3K, and up-regulates PTEN, the antagonist of PI3K. These findings reveal key events of the PI3K pathway that play distinct roles to maintain tissue polarity and that when disrupted are instrumental in the malignant phenotype.
Capping protein binding to actin in yeast
Authors: Kim Kyoungtae , Yamashita Atsuko , Wear Martin A. , Maéda Yuichiro , Cooper John A.
Published: February 2004

The mechanism by which capping protein (CP) binds barbed ends of actin filaments is not understood, and the physiological significance of CP binding to actin is not defined. The CP crystal structure suggests that the COOH-terminal regions of the CP α and β subunits bind to the barbed end. Using purified recombinant mutant yeast CP, we tested this model. CP lacking both COOH-terminal regions did not bind actin. The α COOH-terminal region was more important than that of β. The significance of CP's actin-binding activity in vivo was tested by determining how well CP actin-binding mutants rescued null mutant phenotypes. Rescue correlated well with capping activity, as did localization of CP to actin patches, indicating that capping is a physiological function for CP. Actin filaments of patches appear to be nucleated first, then capped with CP. The binding constants of yeast CP for actin suggest that actin capping in yeast is more dynamic than in vertebrates.
Bicarbonate-responsive “soluble” adenylyl cyclase defines a nuclear cAMP microdomain
Authors: Zippin Jonathan H. , Farrell Jeanne , Huron David , Kamenetsky Margarita , Hess Kenneth C. , Fischman Donald A. , Levin Lonny R. , Buck Jochen
Published: February 2004

Bicarbonate-responsive “soluble” adenylyl cyclase resides, in part, inside the mammalian cell nucleus where it stimulates the activity of nuclear protein kinase A to phosphorylate the cAMP response element binding protein (CREB). The existence of this complete and functional, nuclear-localized cAMP pathway establishes that cAMP signals in intracellular microdomains and identifies an alternate pathway leading to CREB activation.
Evidence for the Presentation of Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I–restricted Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen 1 Peptides to CD8+ T Lymphocytes
Authors: Voo Kui Shin , Fu Tihui , Wang Helen Y. , Tellam Judy , Heslop Helen E. , Brenner Malcolm K. , Rooney Cliona M. , Wang Rong-Fu
Published: February 2004

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-encoded nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1) is expressed in all EBV-associated tumors, making it an important target for immunotherapy. However, evidence for major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I–restricted EBNA1 peptides endogenously presented by EBV-transformed B and tumor cells remains elusive. Here we describe for the first time the identification of an endogenously processed human histocompatibility leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B8–restricted EBNA1 peptide that is recognized by CD8+ T cells. T cell recognition could be inhibited by the treatment of target cells with proteasome inhibitors that block the MHC class I antigen processing pathway, but not by an inhibitor (chloroquine) of MHC class II antigen processing. We also demonstrate that new protein synthesis is required for the generation of the HLA-B8 epitope for T cell recognition, suggesting that defective ribosomal products (DRiPs) are the major source of T cell epitopes. Experiments with protease inhibitors indicate that some serine proteases may participate in the degradation of EBNA1 DRiPs before they are further processed by proteasomes. These findings not only provide the first evidence of the presentation of an MHC class I–restricted EBNA1 epitope to CD8+ T cells, but also offer new insight into the molecular mechanisms involved in the processing and presentation of EBNA1.
B Lineage–specific Regulation of V(D)J Recombinase Activity Is Established in Common Lymphoid Progenitors
Authors: Borghesi Lisa , Hsu Lih-Yun , Miller Juli P. , Anderson Michael , Herzenberg Leonard , Herzenberg Leonore , Schlissel Mark S. , Allman David , Gerstein Rachel M.
Published: February 2004

Expression of V(D)J recombinase activity in developing lymphocytes is absolutely required for initiation of V(D)J recombination at antigen receptor loci. However, little is known about when during hematopoietic development the V(D)J recombinase is first active, nor is it known what elements activate the recombinase in multipotent hematopoietic progenitors. Using mice that express a fluorescent transgenic V(D)J recombination reporter, we show that the V(D)J recombinase is active as early as common lymphoid progenitors (CLPs) but not in the upstream progenitors that retain myeloid lineage potential. Evidence of this recombinase activity is detectable in all four progeny lineages (B, T, and NK, and DC), and rag2 levels are the highest in progenitor subsets immediately downstream of the CLP. By single cell PCR, we demonstrate that V(D)J rearrangements are detectable at IgH loci in ∼5% of splenic natural killer cells. Finally, we show that recombinase activity in CLPs is largely controlled by the Erag enhancer. As activity of the Erag enhancer is restricted to the B cell lineage, this provides the first molecular evidence for establishment of a lineage-specific transcription program in multipotent progenitors.
The CD8 Population in CD4-deficient Mice Is Heavily Contaminated with MHC Class II–restricted T Cells
Authors: Tyznik Aaron J. , Sun Joseph C. , Bevan Michael J.
Published: February 2004

In experiments to study the impact of deficiency in CD4+ T cell help on the magnitude of CD8+ cytotoxic T cell response to pathogens, it was noted that in CD4 gene knockout mice, the CD8 population made significant responses to several nominally major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II–restricted epitopes in addition to the expected responses to MHC class I–restricted epitopes. A similar response by CD8+ T cells to class II–restricted epitopes was not observed in wild-type mice, or in mice that had been acutely depleted of CD4+ T cells just before the immunization. Coincident with this unexpected response to class II–restricted epitopes, it was also observed that the CD8+ response to the class I–restricted epitopes was consistently lower in CD4−/− mice than in wild-type mice. Further experiments suggested that these two observations are linked and that the CD8 population in CD4−/− mice may contain a majority of T cells that were actually selected by recognition of MHC class II molecules in the thymus. These results have implications for understanding CD4 versus CD8 lineage commitment in the thymus, and for the practical use of CD4−/− mice as models of helper deficiency.
Regulated Exocytosis of GABA-containing Synaptic-like Microvesicles in Pancreatic β-cells
Authors: Braun Matthias , Wendt Anna , Birnir Bryndis , Broman Jonas , Eliasson Lena , Galvanovskis Juris , Gromada Jesper , Mulder Hindrik , Rorsman Patrik
Published: February 2004

We have explored whether γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is released by regulated exocytosis of GABA-containing synaptic-like microvesicles (SLMVs) in insulin-releasing rat pancreatic β-cells. To this end, β-cells were engineered to express GABAA-receptor Cl−-channels at high density using adenoviral infection. Electron microscopy indicated that the average diameter of the SLMVs is 90 nm, that every β-cell contains ∼3,500 such vesicles, and that insulin-containing large dense core vesicles exclude GABA. Quantal release of GABA, seen as rapidly activating and deactivating Cl−-currents, was observed during membrane depolarizations from −70 mV to voltages beyond −40 mV or when Ca2+ was dialysed into the cell interior. Depolarization-evoked GABA release was suppressed when Ca2+ entry was inhibited using Cd2+. Analysis of the kinetics of GABA release revealed that GABA-containing vesicles can be divided into a readily releasable pool and a reserve pool. Simultaneous measurements of GABA release and cell capacitance indicated that exocytosis of SLMVs contributes ∼1% of the capacitance signal. Mathematical analysis of the release events suggests that every SLMV contains 0.36 amol of GABA. We conclude that there are two parallel pathways of exocytosis in pancreatic β-cells and that release of GABA may accordingly be temporally and spatially separated from insulin secretion. This provides a basis for paracrine GABAergic signaling within the islet.
Specificity of Charge-carrying Residues in the Voltage Sensor of Potassium Channels
Authors: Ahern Christopher A. , Horn Richard
Published: February 2004

Positively charged voltage sensors of sodium and potassium channels are driven outward through the membrane's electric field upon depolarization. This movement is coupled to channel opening. A recent model based on studies of the KvAP channel proposes that the positively charged voltage sensor, christened the “voltage-sensor paddle”, is a peripheral domain that shuttles its charged cargo through membrane lipid like a hydrophobic cation. We tested this idea by attaching charged adducts to cysteines introduced into the putative voltage-sensor paddle of Shaker potassium channels and measuring fractional changes in the total gating charge from gating currents. The only residues capable of translocating attached charges through the membrane-electric field are those that serve this function in the native channel. This remarkable specificity indicates that charge movement involves highly specialized interactions between the voltage sensor and other regions of the protein, a mechanism inconsistent with the paddle model.
Dissection of the Dislocation Pathway for Type I Membrane Proteins with a New Small Molecule Inhibitor, Eeyarestatin
Authors: Fiebiger Edda , Hirsch Christian , Vyas Jatin M. , Gordon Eva , Ploegh Hidde L. , Tortorella Domenico
Published: February 2004

The mammalian endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-to-cytosol degradation pathway for disposal of misfolded proteins is an attractive target for therapeutic intervention in diseases that are characterized by impaired protein degradation. The ability to do so is hampered by the small number of specific inhibitors available and by our limited understanding of the individual steps involved in this pathway. Cells that express a class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) heavy chain-enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) fusion protein and the human cytomegalovirus protein US11, which catalyzes dislocation of the class I MHC EGFP reporter, show only little fluorescence. Treatment with proteasome inhibitors increases their fluorescence by stabilizing EGFP-tagged MHC class I molecules. We used this change in signal intensity as a readout to screen a chemical library of 16,320 compounds and identified two structurally related compounds (eeyarestatin I and II) that interfered with the degradation of both EGFP-heavy chain and its endogenous unmodified class I MHC heavy chain counterpart. Eeyarestatin I also inhibited degradation of a second misfolded type I membrane protein, T-cell receptor α. Both compounds stabilize these dislocation substrates in the ER membrane, without preventing proteasomal turnover of cytosolic substrates. The new inhibitors must therefore interfere with a step that precedes proteasomal degradation. The use of eeyarestatin I thus allows the definition of a new intermediate in dislocation.
Cell Cycle-dependent Expression of Thyroid Hormone Receptor-β Is a Mechanism for Variable Hormone Sensitivity
Authors: Maruvada Padma , Dmitrieva Natalia I. , East-Palmer Joyce , Yen Paul M.
Published: February 2004

Thyroid hormone receptors (TRs) are ligand-regulatable transcription factors. Currently, little is known about the expression of TRs or other nuclear hormone receptors during the cell cycle. We thus developed a stable expression system to express green fluorescent protein-TRβ in HeLa cells under tetracycline regulation, and studied TR expression during the cell cycle by laser scanning cytometry. Only ∼9-15% of the nonsynchronized cell population expressed TR because the majority of cells were in G1phase and did not express detectable amounts of TR. However, when cells were synchronized in early S phase with hydroxyurea and then released, TR expression levels increased in a cell cycle-dependent manner and peaked to 30-40% cells expressing TR at late G2/M phase before declining to nonsynchronized levels. Moreover, we observed a direct correlation between transcriptional activity and TR expression during the cell cycle. Similar cell cycle-dependent findings also were observed for endogenous TR in rat pituitary GH3cells. Last, cycloheximide studies demonstrated that the increase in TR expression was primarily due to increased translation. These novel observations of cell cycle-dependent expression of TR suggest that differential hormone sensitivity can occur during the cell cycle and may contribute to cell cycle progression during normal development and oncogenesis.
Microtubule Plus-End Dynamics inXenopusEgg Extract Spindles
Authors: Tirnauer Jennifer S. , Salmon E. D. , Mitchison Timothy J.
Published: February 2004

Microtubule dynamics underlie spindle assembly, yet we do not know how the spindle environment affects these dynamics. We developed methods for measuring two key parameters of microtubule plus-end dynamic instability in Xenopus egg extract spindles. To measure plus-end polymerization rates and localize growing plus ends, we used fluorescence confocal imaging of EB1. This revealed plus-end polymerization throughout the spindle at ∼11 μm/min, similar to astral microtubules, suggesting polymerization velocity is not regionally regulated by the spindle. The ratio of EB1 to microtubule fluorescence revealed an enrichment of polymerizing ends near the spindle middle, indicating enhanced nucleation or rescue there. We measured depolymerization rates by creating a front of synchronized depolymerization in spindles severed with microneedles. This front could be tracked by polarization and fluorescence microscopy as it advanced from each cut edge toward the associated pole. Both imaging modalities revealed rapid depolymerization (∼30 μm/min) superimposed on a subset of microtubules stable to depolymerization. Larger spindle fragments contained a higher percentage of stable microtubules, which we believe were oriented with their minus ends facing the cut. Depolymerization was blocked by the potent microtubule stabilizing agent hexylene glycol, but was unaffected by α-MCAK antibody and AMPPNP, which block catastrophe and kinesin motility, respectively. These measurements move us closer to understanding the complete life history of a spindle microtubule.
Tumor Suppressor Activity of Profilin Requires a Functional Actin Binding Site
Authors: Wittenmayer Nina , Jandrig Burkhard , Rothkegel Martin , Schlüter Kathrin , Arnold Wolfgang , Haensch Wolfgang , Scherneck Siegfried , Jockusch Brigitte M.
Published: February 2004

Profilin 1 (PFN1) is a regulator of the microfilament system and is involved in various signaling pathways. It interacts with many cytoplasmic and nuclear ligands. The importance of PFN1 for human tissue differentiation has been demonstrated by the findings that human cancer cells, expressing conspicuously low PFN1 levels, adopt a nontumorigenic phenotype upon raising their PFN1 level. In the present study, we characterize the ligand binding site crucial for profilin's tumor suppressor activity. Starting with CAL51, a human breast cancer cell line highly tumorigenic in nude mice, we established stable clones that express PFN1 mutants differentially defective in ligand binding. Clones expressing PFN1 mutants with reduced binding to either poly-proline-stretch ligands or phosphatidyl-inositol-4,5-bisphosphate, but with a functional actin binding site, were normal in growth, adhesion, and anchorage dependence, with only a weak tendency to elicit tumors in nude mice, similar to controls expressing wild-type PFN1. In contrast, clones expressing a mutant with severely reduced capacity to bind actin still behaved like the parental CAL51 and were highly tumorigenic. We conclude that the actin binding site on profilin is instrumental for normal differentiation of human epithelia and the tumor suppressor function of PFN1.
ThePXL1Gene ofSaccharomyces cerevisiaeEncodes a Paxillin-like Protein Functioning in Polarized Cell Growth
Authors: Mackin Nancy A. , Sousou Tarek J. , Erdman Scott E.
Published: February 2004

The Saccharomyces cerevisiae open reading frame YKR090w encodes a predicted protein displaying similarity in organization to paxillin, a scaffolding protein that organizes signaling and actin cytoskeletal regulating activities in many higher eucaryotic cell types. We found that YKR090w functions in a manner analogous to paxillin as a mediator of polarized cell growth; thus, we have named this gene PXL1 (Paxillin-like protein 1). Analyses of pxl1Δ strains show that PXL1 is required for the selection and maintenance of polarized growth sites during vegetative growth and mating. Genetic analyses of strains lacking both PXL1 and the Rho GAP BEM2 demonstrate that such cells display pronounced growth defects in response to different conditions causing Rho1 pathway activation. PXL1 also displays genetic interactions with the Rho1 effector FKS1. Pxl1p may therefore function as a modulator of Rho-GTPase signaling. A GFP::Pxl1 fusion protein localizes to sites of polarized cell growth. Experiments mapping the localization determinants of Pxl1p demonstrate the existence of localization mechanisms conserved between paxillin and Pxl1p and indicate an evolutionarily ancient and conserved role for LIM domain proteins in acting to modulate cell signaling and cytoskeletal organization during polarized growth.
Co-existence of recent and ancestral nucleotide sequences in viral quasispecies of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 patients
Authors: Bello Gonzalo , Casado Concepción , García Soledad , Rodríguez Carmen , del Romero Jorge , López-Galíndez Cecilio
Published: February 2004

In human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection, the presence of divergent nucleotide sequences within a quasispecies has been associated with double infections or samples from different times or from different tissue compartments. The authors analysed HIV-1 proviral quasispecies from PBMC of three untreated Spanish patients displaying highly divergent nucleotide sequences without evidence of double infection. The origin of these nucleotide sequences was determined by phylogenetic analysis and by dating of the different groups using a genetic divergence versus sampling year plot from a set of Spanish samples. By their short genetic distance to the node of the patient's HIV-1 phylogenetic tree and by their early date of origin, close to the seroconversion time, some groups of sequences were considered ancestral. The presence within HIV-1 quasispecies of ancestral sequences, dated up to 10 years earlier than present ones, has important consequences for in vivo viral evolution, in the pathogenesis and treatment of HIV-1 infection.
Distinct roles for PP1 and PP2A in the Neurospora circadian clock
Authors: Yang Yuhong , He Qun , Cheng Ping , Wrage Philip , Yarden Oded , Liu Yi
Published: February 2004

Phosphorylation of the Neurospora circadian clock protein FREQUENCY by several kinases promotes its degradation and is important for the function of the circadian feedback loop. Here, we show that FRQ is less stable in a ppp-1 (catalytic subunit of PP1) mutant, resulting in its advanced phase and short period. In contrast, FRQ stability is not altered in a rgb-1 (a regulatory subunit of PP2A) mutant, but levels of frq protein and mRNA are low, resulting in a low-amplitude and long-period oscillation of the clock. Furthermore, PP1 and PP2A expressed in Neurospora can dephosphorylate the endogenous FRQ in vitro, suggesting that these two phosphatases may differentially regulate FRQ and, consequently, the behavior of the circadian clock.
Modulation of mammalian life span by the short isoform of p53
Authors: Maier Bernhard , Gluba Wendy , Bernier Brian , Turner Terry , Mohammad Khalid , Guise Theresa , Sutherland Ann , Thorner Michael , Scrable Heidi
Published: February 2004

Overexpression of the short isoform of p53 (p44) has unexpectedly uncovered a role for p53 in the regulation of size and life span in the mouse. Hyperactivation of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling axis by p44 sets in motion a kinase cascade that clamps potentially unimpeded growth through p21Cip1. This suggests that pathways of gene activity known to regulate longevity in lower organisms are linked in mammals via p53 to mechanisms for controlling cell proliferation. Thus, appropriate expression of the short and long p53 isoforms might maintain a balance between tumor suppression and tissue regeneration, a major requisite for long mammalian life span.
Constitutive activation of MEK1 in chondrocytes causes Stat1-independent achondroplasia-like dwarfism and rescues the Fgfr3-deficient mouse phenotype
Authors: Murakami Shunichi , Balmes Gener , McKinney Sandra , Zhang Zhaoping , Givol David , de Crombrugghe Benoit
Published: February 2004

We generated transgenic mice that express a constitutively active mutant of MEK1 in chondrocytes. These mice showed a dwarf phenotype similar to achondroplasia, the most common human dwarfism, caused by activating mutations in FGFR3. These mice displayed incomplete hypertrophy of chondrocytes in the growth plates and a general delay in endochondral ossification, whereas chondrocyte proliferation was unaffected. Immunohistochemical analysis of the cranial base in transgenic embryos showed reduced staining for collagen type X and persistent expression of Sox9 in chondrocytes. These observations indicate that the MAPK pathway inhibits hypertrophic differentiation of chondrocytes and negatively regulates bone growth without inhibiting chondrocyte proliferation. Expression of a constitutively active mutant of MEK1 in chondrocytes of Fgfr3-deficient mice inhibited skeletal overgrowth, strongly suggesting that regulation of bone growth by FGFR3 is mediated at least in part by the MAPK pathway. Although loss of Stat1 restored the reduced chondrocyte proliferation in mice expressing an achondroplasia mutant of Fgfr3, it did not rescue the reduced hypertrophic zone, the delay in formation of secondary ossification centers, and the achondroplasia-like phenotype. These observations suggest a model in which Fgfr3 signaling inhibits bone growth by inhibiting chondrocyte differentiation through the MAPK pathway and by inhibiting chondrocyte proliferation through Stat1.
Management development in a motivationally rich environment
Authors: Carter Stephen , Davies Richard
Published: February 2004

With the realisation that it needed to enhance its leadership capability across Europe, SABMiller is working with Apter International to provide a highly innovative approach to management development and leadership. Central to its European Management Development Programme (EMDp) is the synergy that exists between the two organisations in terms of “brand consciousness”, but also crucially the creation of a “motivationally rich” learning environment. With the whole programme scientifically based on innovative new approaches arising from one of the world’s first comprehensive applications of reversal theory to the world of work, SABMiller is already benefiting from the shared expertise of a confident European leadership network focused beyond function to broader business needs.
Solutions coaching? No problem! Part 2
Authors: Hawkins Leo
Published: February 2004

Solutions coaching is a powerful, highly pragmatic and emotionally intelligent method of coaching individuals and teams. Its guiding principle is simple – find what works and do more of it. The SIMPLE model sidesteps the search for the causes of problems and heads straight for the solution. Of course, simple does not necessarily equate with easy. There is a subtle skill to applying this approach that takes the coach beyond learned technique and into the realm of artistry. The coach needs to be extremely sensitive to the needs of the coachee and to be willing to flexibly adapt the model to the information that the coachee offers moment‐by‐moment. The first article of this two‐part series looked at the core principles and the SIMPLE model of solutions coaching. In this second article the artful “how‐to” of applying this approach is shown along with some practical tools for putting the technique into practice.
Learning delivers the best return
Authors: Oldfield Neil , Rose Colin
Published: February 2004

Three trends are shaping our personal and business lives: information is coming at us at an accelerating rate; jobs are changing faster and faster; and society, work and even leisure pursuits are becoming more complex. The accelerating pace of information means that the individual needs to know how to absorb information more rapidly. Faster change means that workers and the organisation they work for must learn to adapt training more quickly. Increased complexity of work means that the ability to analyse situations logically and to solve problems creatively are skills that everyone needs, and must be trained in the workplace and studied at home. In other words, the individuals and companies who can out‐learn, out‐think and out‐create their competitors will be the ones who thrive in the twenty‐first century.
Appraisal pitfalls and the training implications – Part 2
Authors: Rees W. David , Porter Christine
Published: February 2004

In this two‐part article the problems of operating employee appraisal schemes effectively are identified. Appraisal of formal appraisal schemes suggests that most do not operate satisfactorily. Multi‐purpose schemes can be cumbersome and include conflicting objectives. The feedback process can also cause major problems. Such problems can be exacerbated with schemes of 360‐degree appraisal according to their complexity and the role conflicts they can precipitate. In the second part of the article the level of organisational investment needed for schemes to operate effectively is considered. The ways in which competencies, self‐appraisal, and peer audit can be constructively used are examined. Competencies developed for selection purposes may be usefully applied in appraisal, provided they are accurate. The crucial link between formal and informal appraisal processes is considered as is the importance and skills involved in informal appraisal. Finally, the way in which the training needs of appraisees need to be realistically identified and assessed is explained.
Principles not values
Authors: Palmer Louise , Foley Jill , Parsons Chris
Published: February 2004

Corporate values are increasingly common in companies and now in the public sector, and it is rare not to be greeted by a number of value statements when entering an organisation. However, many of the implementations of corporate values are unsuccessful and may increase divisions within an organisation. In this article it is argued that employers can reap significant benefits by returning to the original concept of values as a set of guiding principles. By focusing on, and communicating the business needs of the company, rather than culturally‐specific and woolly values, embedding these principles in the organisation, and making sure that progress in each area of principle is monitored and controlled, individual employees understand better what they need to do and the organisation is able to move in one coherent direction.
A comparative study of the state of recent IPO companies – lessons learned
Authors: Kumar Sameer , Beattie Jonathan
Published: February 2004

Examines five companies from different market segments with initial public offerings in the past five years, representing a wide range of products. The companies were Cabot Microelectronics, Alliance Fiber Optics Products, Adams Golf, King Pharmaceuticals, and Gadzooks Networks. The companies’ stock price trend, revenue, and net gain or losses were evaluated to determine how each of them was performing financially. In addition, each company’s product offerings market trends, product innovations, and market success were examined to determine what factors aid in a company performing well financially. A small perspective was given on the future outlook for a typical company and its products.
An objective approach for identifying the strategic components of a PDM system
Authors: Kumar Rajeev , Midha P.S.
Published: February 2004

This paper proposes an expert system that incorporates QFD (quality function deployment) methodology for the identification of the strategic components of a company for a PDM (product data management) system. A PDM system helps a company in carrying out its collaborative product development activities by providing a platform, through which information can be shared. It also helps in managing the different activities involved in the product development process. The use of QFD methodology in an expert system rationalises the process of identifying the strategic components of a PDM system for a successful collaborative product development strategy. In the proposed approach the PDM requirements are directly correlated with the PDM functions. This helps in prioritising the PDM components/functions and in providing a transparent way of understanding the correlation between the PDM requirements and the PDM components/functions. The use of expert system overcomes the complexities associated with QFD methodology.
Impact of standardization on EDI in B2B development
Authors: Hsieh Chang‐tseh , Lin Binshan
Published: February 2004

This paper investigates how the standardization on electronic data interchange (EDI) might affect B2B development in the real world of business. EDI technique has been evolved to become a very important technique with a lot of potential benefits. Its impacts on organizations both socially and economically are explored, together with a detailed discussion of the roles of XML in EDI.
Implementation of EDI in Hong Kong: an empirical analysis
Authors: Ngai E.W.T. , Gunasekaran A.
Published: February 2004

Electronic data interchange (EDI) plays a major part in improving organizational competitiveness in the twenty‐first century global market. Telecommunication technologies have improved the effectiveness of communication along the value chain. Information technology (IT) has been helpful in integrating various functional areas within and outside organisations. This paper uses empirical research to study the application of EDI in Hong Kong. In a survey of Hong Kong companies, questions are asked about perceived barriers to implementation of EDI, perceived benefits achievable through EDI, and critical success factors for the adoption of EDI. The main objective of this study is to develop a framework for enhancing the application and implementation of IT with a view to improved organizational competitiveness.
Adaptation of organizational change models to the implementation of quality standard requirements
Authors: Johnson Dana M.
Published: February 2004

Companies pursuing certification to quality standards must apply change methodologies to institutionalize the requirements into the business. Existing change models, such as Burke‐Litwin, can serve as the foundation for identifying underlying, predictive variables impacting response variables of a quality management system including quality and delivery performance. The models were selected based on their applicability and similarity in integration of organizational variables with great similarities to those of a typical quality management system. Adaptation of change models specifically to quality management standards provides the conceptual framework in which businesses can operate. The discussion reviews quality management standards, organizational change and models, and change management in pursuit of certification. A conceptual model was developed and serves as the foundation for empirical research efforts. This bridges the gap between organizational change models and quality management systems.
A methodological comparison of three strategies for quality improvement
Authors: de Mast Jeroen
Published: February 2004

Quality improvement is understood by Juran to be the systematic pursuit of improvement opportunities in production processes. Several methodologies are proposed in literature for quality improvement projects. Three of these methodologies – Taguchi's methods, the Shainin system and the Six Sigma programme – are compared. The comparison is facilitated by a methodological framework for quality improvement. The methodological weaknesses and strong points of each strategy are highlighted. The analysis shows that the Shainin system focuses mainly on the identification of the root cause of problems. Both Taguchi's methods and the Six Sigma programme exploit statistical modelling techniques. The Six Sigma programme is the most complete strategy of the three.
Combined application of QFD and VA tools in the product design process
Authors: Luís Ramos da Silva Fábio , Lucchesi Cavalca Katia , Giuseppe Dedini Franco
Published: February 2004

The aim of both value analysis (VA) and quality function deployment (QFD) is to reduce waste by avoiding redesign and providing optimal location of costs in general. To satisfy the consumer's most important needs, the VA prioritizes the increase in the cost of the product and not the subsequent price rise. QFD aims at generating clear engineering needs from consumer requirements thus, minimizing the reprojecting cost (“cost” should read “waste”) and changes in the products. The existing common concepts between two design tools, QFD (the project tool) and VA (the product optimization tool) motivated this study. QFD establishes a link among parameters such as the consumer needs, engineering requirements and a comparative analysis of the consumer perception against that of rival companies. The VA prioritizes a rise in the aggregate value (perceived by the consumer) by optimization development and production costs. The proposed methodology is capable of integrating these two tools, integrating costs with product development (“for the consumer”) for a joint analysis. This way it is possible to establish optimum cost values for each engineering requirement. It is also possible to evaluate the cost of each product function. Furthermore, the methodology provides a tool that supports decision making in product development and projects. This work evaluates the integrated use of the QFD and VA tools. Employing a survey that was carried out which intended to reveal the young male consumers’ requirements concerning a sports bicycle.
The edge of chaos
Authors: Normore Anthony H.
Published: February 2004

Much has been written about student accountability, teacher accountability, and school accountability. More limited research is available on administrator accountability. Recently there have been substantial initiatives undertaken world‐wide to increase educational accountability. With increasing demands and changing expectations in the role of school administration, researchers, practitioners and policy makers and departments of education have become socially preoccupied with educational accountability. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive literature review on accountability of school administrators over the last two decades to demonstrate how aspiring, new and practicing school administrators understand and meet the demands of accountability in a time of tumultuous change when the stakes are high.
Administrative practice and high school students' perceptions of their school, teachers and performance
Authors: Mulford Bill , Kendall Lawrie , Kendall Diana
Published: February 2004

This article explores the relationship between teachers' perceptions of administrative practice in high schools and students' perceptions of the school, teachers and their own performance. It was found that where decision making is perceived by teachers as collegial, collaborative, co‐operative and consultative and providing adequate opportunities for participation it will be more likely to lead to positive student perceptions about their school and teachers, as well as perceptions about relationships and their own performance, than where decision making is more top‐down, executive or does not foster widespread involvement. Reinforcing these findings it was found that where teachers identify the main sources of stress in their schools as lack of support from management, poor leadership and ineffective decision‐making processes, students are much less favourably disposed towards their teachers or their own engagement and performance. Previously reported results have shown that such inclusive decision‐making practices may not be widespread in high schools.
Tandoori tastes: perceptions of Indian restaurants in America
Authors: Josiam Bharath M. , Monteiro Prema A.
Published: February 2004

The USA is culturally and ethnically diverse and becoming more so. This diversity is reflected in the variety of cuisines available both in stores and in restaurants. Trends show a movement towards trying out new and exotic foods, increasing interest in vegetarian items, as well as a growing use of spices, herbs, and hot peppers. Asian foods are getting more popular with cuisines from China, Thailand, and Japan in the lead. Indian cuisine is hot, spicy, flavored with herbs, and offers many vegetarian options. This study examines the perceptions of White Americans, South Asians, and those of other ethnic origins in their perceptions of the food and service in Indian restaurants in the USA. The findings of this study suggest that there are universal likes/dislikes as well as differential perceptions between ethnic groups. Implications for researchers and operators of Indian restaurants are provided.
Moving from fire‐fighting to fire prevention: what service organizations need to know
Authors: Young Cheri A. , Corsun David L. , Shinnar Rachel S.
Published: February 2004

Managers in manufacturing environments often engage in fire‐fighting rather than taking a more proactive approach to management. It is argued that, although often necessary, fire‐fighting has negative consequences associated with a focus on solving organizational symptoms rather than problems or predicaments. Additionally, many believe the empowerment of front‐line service workers is key to a successful service recovery procedure or program. Three different types of empowerment – service recovery, problem solving, and customer service – are presented and it is shown that service recovery empowerment is associated with fire‐fighting. The practical, managerial implications of these three types of empowerment, and of fire‐fighting, are discussed.
Improving human resources management: some practical questions and answers
Authors: Melián González Santiago
Published: February 2004

Practically nobody denies the importance of human resources (HR) to company management. There are many works which show that companies’ managing their HR in a specific way, obtain positive business results. However, some of those studies select, a priori, organisations with a certain type of HR practice in order to assess their impact on performance. This work, with no prior knowledge of their human resources management (HRM), analyses the HRM in a number of accommodation establishments, using three up‐to‐date approaches to that managerial function as a reference. The results indicate that many of the establishments do not follow the proposals of those approaches. Therefore, based on those results, the focus is on those three perspectives to make recommendations that enable the establishments to improve their HRM.
How do hotel firms obtain a competitive advantage?
Authors: Yong Kim Byeong , Oh Haemoon
Published: February 2004

Hotel managers need to understand how their firm can achieve a competitive advantage (CA) over their competitors. Three conceptual frameworks: Porter’s five, forces approach, the resource‐based approach, and the relational approach, have assisted managers in identifying the sources of CA. Although these three approaches pursue similar goals such as customer value creation and high firm performance, hotel managers have focused on only one of these approaches, limiting their understanding of the sources of CA. Why these three approaches need to be integrated to understand the sources of CA is discussed and a more comprehensive approach to strategic management in the lodging industry is proposed. Implications for research and practice are also offered.
Sexual coercion in young persons: exploring the experiences of rape victims in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Ajuwon Ademola J. , Oladapo Olley Benjamin , Akintola Olagoke , Akin‐Jimoh Iwalola
Published: February 2004

In‐depth interviews with eight female victims of rape in Ibadan, Nigeria were used to explore the context in which the coercive incident occurred, the health‐seeking behaviours that followed and the consequences of this experience in victims' lives. The mean age of the women was 17 years. In all cases, perpetrators of rape were persons with whom the women were acquainted. Rape occurred mainly in familiar and private settings. Rarely do victims communicate the incident to family or friends or report the incident to the enforcement authorities. The stigma associated with rape is a primary barrier to seeking care. Interventions are proposed to address these problems.
An internationally shared health frame of reference created by a television program: The Simpsons, a content analysis of health messages
Authors: Byrd‐Bredbenner Carol
Published: February 2004

Watching television has become one of the most time‐consuming leisure activities of children in many nations. Television offers numerous opportunities to learn and be entertained, but can conbribute to a variety of public health concerns for youth. Thus, it is vital for health professionals to become aware of the types of health‐related messages (HRMs) broadcast on television. The purpose of this study was to content‐analyze the HRMs in a widely viewed, popular prime‐time program, The Simpsons, which is exported around the world and is rich in HRMs. Overall, nearly 40 percent of the HRMs on The Simpsons run counter to those promoted by health professionals. However, there were positive HRMs promoting practices recommended by health‐care professionals, such as choosing nutritious foods and eating together as a family. Future research should investigate how HRMs impact children's health knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors.
Nutrition education displays for young adults and older adults
Authors: Chambers Delores H. , Meck Higgins Mary , Roeger Christine , Allison Ann‐Marie A.
Published: February 2004

The objective of this study was to develop guidelines for creating and modifying nutrition education displays. Two trained moderators conducted 14, 90‐minute focus groups with 99 low‐income individuals using eight displays based on past year's usage and appropriateness to the age groups from those developed in Kansas, USA. Both groups recommended: the generous use of color; large, simple, block text; realistic images; text colors that contrast with background colors; and provision of practical printed materials. Younger respondents focused more on the graphical presentation. Older adults were more averse to complicated font characteristics and overlapping text/graphics. Excessive information on the display drastically decreased its liking by both groups.
Bla‐bla‐bla: video chat service on the Internet – a market feasibility study
Authors: Lindgreen Adam , Antioco Michael , Wetzels Martin
Published: February 2004

The Internet is changing the way that companies carry out their business and, in fact, constitutes an entirely new application domain, which makes product innovation possible. Moreover, it is a new medium for reaching consumers, which is a central preoccupation to organisations in the current business market. Here interest lies in video chatting on the Internet. This is a type of service that adds video support to chatting using a Web cam and is gradually attracting more Internet users. The paper consists of a market feasibility study evaluating the potential commercialisation of a software program that enables the “cutting away” of the chatters from the original background filmed by the Web cam, and later re‐integrates them into a new background. The software program could, therefore, be interesting for advertising companies.
A consideration of the roles of business intelligence and e‐business in management and marketing decision making in knowledge‐based and high‐tech start‐ups
Authors: Hill Jimmy , Scott Terri
Published: February 2004

This paper considers the roles of business intelligence (BI) and e‐business systems in enhancing the quality of decision making in knowledge‐based and high‐tech start‐ups. A qualitative study, using in‐depth discussions with 11 companies based in Northern Ireland, was conducted. The study examined the extent of BI usage and evaluated the extent of implementation of effective e‐business systems in the sample companies. The study concludes that, whilst the sample firms recognized the value of both BI and e‐business models, the modus operandi of the entrepreneurial high tech start‐up is very much rooted in the traditional small firm paradigm of personal contact networking.
The importance of a strong business‐IT relationship for the realisation of benefits in e‐business projects: the experiences of Egg
Authors: Clarke Sue , Doherty Neil
Published: February 2004

There is a pressing need for research into the successful application of technology within organisations, given the high incidence of failure, with respect to information systems projects, in general, and e‐commerce applications, in particular. A case study was conducted into system development approaches at Egg, one of the UK’s leading online banks. Presents a qualitative study in this important area of research which should be of interest both to information systems researchers and to all IT professionals with responsibility for, or involvement in, e‐business development projects. The key finding of the research is that, while the balance between IT and business input does change over the course of a project, its successful outcome is highly dependent on the evolution of a strong IT‐business relationship that endures for the duration of the project. Shows that the maintenance of this strong relationship is undoubtedly aided by having shared and high priority activities, such as benefits realisation, that also last for the duration of the project.
The strategic role of investor relations
Authors: Dolphin Richard R.
Published: February 2004

This paper reports an empirical study conducted in British organisations focussing on the role of investor relations as part of a co‐ordinated marketing communications strategy. Consequently this study considers the greatly neglected research area of the management of relationships between national and international organisations and both investors and those others who might consider themselves significant financial stakeholders. It examines the organisational role of investor relations within a co‐ordinated communication programme and suggests that communication with financial stakeholders has a significant role to play as part of a developed corporate communication strategy.