bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The perceived benefits of six‐degree‐separation social networks
Authors: Shu Wesley , Chuang Yu‐Hao
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This research seeks to focus on the benefits of social networking service (SNS) based on the principle of six degrees of separation. Since the inception of web 2.0, the popularity of social networks (SNS) has continued to increase. Some SNS are based on six degrees of separation (6SNS), and these have emerged as the most frequently visited WWW sites.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a randomized control group pre‐test‐post‐test experimental design, responses to a questionnaire to test the differences among 6SNS users and non‐users on 12 issues of benefit were analyzed.

Findings

The tests show, first, that, compared with traditional virtual communities, SNS evoke higher ratings for “trust in website,” “trust in other members,” and “quality of friends.” Second, SNS can provide users with entertainment and greater social involvement. People who use these sites express positive attitudes about them. Third, no significant differences were found between SNS and traditional internet media on “meeting new friends,” “maintaining relationships,” “searching for friends,” “searching for information,” and “understanding and learning.” These results can be attributed to language differences.

Originality/value

The value of 6SNS is recognized by the business world. In October 2007, Microsoft invested $240 million to buy 1.6 percent shares of Facebook. Today Facebook alone has more than 300 million users. In addition to the perspective from the business world, how the users themselves view 6SNS and what benefits they can get are crucial to its sustainability.
The evolution of Hofstede's doctrine
Authors: Minkov Michael , Hofstede Geert
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to provide a mature reflection upon the work of Hofstede by tracking various subtleties in the evolution of his thought and dispelling prevalent misconceptions.

Design/methodology/approach

The goal of the paper is achieved by analyzing Hofstede's output from 1970 to the present day in parallel with contemporary research and criticism.

Findings

The paper arrives at the conclusion that the recent expansion and update of Hofstede's doctrine is indebted to the original groundbreaking work of the 1970s yet a key strength of Hofstede's work has been its ability to adapt and remain progressive.

Originality/value

The paper offers insights into the evolution of Hofstede's doctrines.
Knowledge sharing in new organizational entities
Authors: Friesl Martin , Sackmann Sonja A. , Kremser Sebastian
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the dynamics involved in knowledge sharing in knowledge intensive heterogeneous teams of the German Federal Armed Forces with a specific focus on new organizational entities.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on qualitative research. The data were gathered through interviews with members of so‐called concept development and experimentation (CD&E) projects. These projects constitute a novelty for the whole organization and a cultural challenge for effective knowledge sharing, through its cross‐disciplinary, cross‐functional and cross‐hierarchical design. Hence, these projects are a good venue to study cultural dynamics in new organizational entities.

Findings

The analysis reveals that despite the structural separation of the new organizational entity, cultural imprint and cultural re‐import from the existing organization affected knowledge sharing. More specifically, four major influencing factors are identified in regard to knowledge sharing within the CD&E project team and between the team and the line organization; hierarchy, organizational context, micro‐politics and suspicion. The data suggest that these factors are precipitated by cultural imprint of the line organization.

Research limitations/implications

The qualitative research design is one limitation rendering only descriptions and propositions that need further testing in other settings. Another one is the research venue which allows only limited access for data collection.

Practical implications

The paper shows that the dynamics in CD&E projects require culturally sensitive project management, starting in the planning phase of the project.

Originality/value

The study investigates knowledge sharing in new organizational entities in knowledge intensive teams of a military organization. Both aspects, new organizational entities and non‐private organizations, have been neglected in research on knowledge sharing.
Effective supply chain research via the quick scan audit methodology
Authors: Childerhouse P. , Towill D.R.
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an answer to the important question of how can accurate assessment of supply chain practice and performance be conducted? By conducting audits across a sample of value streams it is thereby possible to identify the components of “good practice” via evidence‐based procedures.

Design/methodology/approach

Quick scan audit methodology (QSAM) is a site‐based, team‐oriented action research‐led investigative technique for establishing meaningful “snapshots” of value stream behaviour. The participants cover both academic researchers and host organisation staff.

Findings

QSAM is found to output repeatable results enabling the transfer of technique between companies, between businesses, between market sectors, and between countries.

Research limitations/implications

Care must be taken when training new auditors and QSAM teams to ensure the required degree of consistency. There is no substitute for operating a “watch one, share one, do one” regimen.

Practical implications

The research purpose is to establish the performance vectors to enable effective value stream health comparisons to be made. Additionally “quick hits” (not “quick fixes”) may well be identified specific to an individual host organisation.

Originality/value

QSAM has already made an important contribution in enabling the gap between case‐based and survey‐based logistics research to be properly bridged.
Comparative carbon auditing of conventional and online retail supply chains: a review of methodological issues
Authors: Edwards Julia , McKinnon Alan , Cullinane Sharon
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine the various stages in online and conventional retail supply chains in order to assess their relative environmental impacts. With reference to boundary issues, utilisation factors and carbon allocation, it seeks to highlight some of the difficulties in establishing a robust carbon auditing methodology.

Design/methodology/approach

Auditing issues are considered from the point of divergence in the respective supply chains (downstream of this point a product is destined either for conventional or online retailing channels, and will receive different treatment accordingly).

Findings

The paper explores methodological issues associated with carbon auditing conventional and online retail channels. Having highlighted the problems, it suggests resolutions to these issues.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is mostly conceptual in nature.

Practical implications

The approach outlined in this paper, once applied, allows the identification of inefficiencies in the respective retail supply chains.

Originality/value

The paper is the first to discuss carbon auditing in relation to upstream supply chain analysis for both conventional and online retail channels. Previous work has tended to focus on the last mile delivery.
Value‐enhanced collaborative working: case study of a small management advisory firm
Authors: Gohil Udityasinh , Carrillo Patricia , Ruikar Kirti , Anumba Chimay
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to propose a conceptual framework to promote value‐enhanced collaborative working (VECW) for a small management advisory firm.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology was qualitative. It involved a comprehensive review of literature leading to a better understanding of collaborative working requirements in a small firm context and the barriers to derive value from collaborative working. Initially, exploratory observations helped to identify issues of collaborative working in the case study organisation. Following the exploratory observations, a detailed case study was undertaken. The emphasis was on semi‐structured interviews under a guiding questionnaire along with field observations to produce a conceptual framework for VECW.

Findings

The research enables an understanding of the apparent failure of a particular small and medium‐sized enterprise (SME) management advisory firm (case study organisation) to derive value from its collaborative working model. The study identifies major issues that affect the long‐term relationships of the organisation with their collaborating stakeholders and recognises the common understanding required by the stakeholders working in collaboration. Further, in order to solve these issues, the research develops a conceptual VECW framework within the current context. The major components of the conceptual VECW framework consist of process, people and tools factors to give a structured approach to agree common goals, share risks and rewards, provide faster and clearer communications and information transparency between collaborating stakeholders.

Research limitations/implications

Owing to the nature of the study (case study), current paper is based on the findings of a single SME management advisory firm. Hence, further research for organisations of similar size and providing similar services would be required to investigate the robustness of the approach.

Originality/value

Most studies on collaboration are concentrated on either larger organisations or product organisations. Here, the attempt is to understand the collaboration among small firms providing professional services. The research paper is an important milestone on an ongoing research to produce a detailed framework eventually to be presented to the industry for evaluation to ensure its contribution to the industry as well as increasing the knowledge on the subject.
Government roles in implementing building information modelling systems
Authors: Wong Andy K.D. , Wong Francis K.W. , Nadeem Abid
Published: January 2011

Purpose

Building information modelling (BIM) is a paradigm shift in the architectural, engineering and construction industries which transforms processes to achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the implementation of BIM in Hong Kong and the USA and recommend strategies for BIM implementation in Hong Kong.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review of BIM initiatives taken in Hong Kong and the USA was conducted including the government policy, guidelines, standards and implementation status. Findings from the literature review were complemented with insights obtained through focused interviews of experts in the field for arriving at recommendations based on the research. The principal investigator of this research also participated in the establishment of a BIM professional institute as one of the founding board members.

Findings

As a result of studies performed for this paper, guidelines are proposed for BIM implementation in Hong Kong. The role of government in implementing BIM in different phases of a project lifecycle is also highlighted.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited mainly to the initiatives of BIM taken by the public sector (government). The roles of other stakeholders are not specifically studied. Results from this study should be considered in the context of a qualitative research methodology adopted and the limited number of responses obtained for arriving at the findings of this paper.

Practical implications

Results from this study can be used as guidelines for the implementation of BIM elsewhere and this implementation can be compared with other countries.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the best practices of BIM implementation, which is useful for the effective and efficient implementation of BIM in Hong Kong.
Defining a commercialisation model for residential construction innovation: industry case studies
Authors: McCoy Andrew , Thabet Walid , Badinelli Ralph
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This work provides validation of a model for successful commercialisation of innovative products for residential construction. The development of the model is motivated by the persistence of failed commercialisations due to inadequate business plans. This paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The current paper validates the model with data from case studies of 15 manufacturers of recently commercialised innovative residential‐construction products. The research team interpreted the interview data and correlated this data with the model. The correlations illuminate critical steps within the commercialisation process; perceptions of the less important steps; decisions and resulting actions that support commercialisation, accelerators and barriers of commercialisation; and prototypical commercialisation processes.

Findings

A total of 15 case studies of successfully commercialised products provide empirical support for the commercialisation model that was developed from literature review and previous surveys.

Research limitations/implications

The research is based on content analysis of in‐depth interviews from 15 case studies, a methodology that yields a small number of general conclusions from a large data set. More case studies are needed to expand the implications presented in this work. Conclusions drawn from the data have important implications for establishing a normative description of the process of transforming an invention into a commercialised innovation in residential construction.

Practical implications

The commercialisation findings presented here could benefit innovators and adopters of construction products. The research indicates best practices, key accelerators and key barriers to the commercialisation of products in the residential‐construction industry.

Originality/value

This work presents the second phase of development of a domain‐specific commercialisation model for innovative residential‐construction products. This commercialisation model serves as a roadmap to entrepreneurs, which avoids the most common pitfalls along the path of commercialisation.
Governance and social capital formation in buyer‐supplier relationships
Authors: Carey Sinéad , Lawson Benn
Published: January 2011

Purpose

Building social capital within buyer‐supplier relationships is often associated with high performing supply chains. However, little research has examined the mechanisms by which social capital is formed. The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of relational and contractual governance mechanisms on the formation of social capital under varying levels of demand and supply uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework is developed, grounded in the literature on supply chain management and social capital theory (SCT).

Findings

A series of propositions showed that relational governance leads to the formation of social capital under conditions of supply uncertainty, but is subject to opportunism when customer product demand is uncertain. By contrast, in conditions of high demand uncertainty, contractual governance is associated with social capital formation.

Practical implications

The paper illustrates the need for managers to consider both the way in which their choice of governance mechanisms (contractual and relational) contributes to social capital, as well as highlighting the contingent nature of these mechanisms depending on the environmental context.

Originality/value

This paper is a novel contribution, applying SCT to the literature on supply chain management.
Using system dynamics in warehouse management: a fast‐fashion case study
Authors: Corinna Cagliano Anna , DeMarco Alberto , Rafele Carlo , Volpe Sergio
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an analysis of how different sourcing policies and resource usage affect the operational performance dynamics of warehouse processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The system dynamics (SD) methodology is used to model warehouse operations at the distribution centre of a leading fast‐fashion vertical retailer. This case study includes a detailed analysis of the relationships between the flow of items through the warehouse, the assignment of staff, the inventory management policy, and the order processing tasks.

Findings

Case scenario simulations are provided to define warehouse policies enabling increased efficiency, cost savings, reduced inventory, and shorter lead‐times.

Practical implications

The case study reaffirms that a flexible usage of human resources, outsourcing of selected warehouse operations, and sourcing from reliable manufacturers may result in important performance improvements for centralised warehousing.

Originality/value

It is proved that SD is a valuable tool in the field of operations management, not only to support strategic evaluations but also to execute a detailed analysis of logistical processes and make scenario‐based dynamic decisions at the operational level.
Reconciling the resource‐based and competitive positioning perspectives on manufacturing flexibility
Authors: Lucas Marilyn T. , Kirillova Olga M.
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to reconcile two different perspectives on manufacturing flexibility found in the operations management literature.

Design/methodology/approach

Conceptual in nature, the paper examines manufacturing flexibility from the perspective of the resource‐based view of the firm as a complement to the competitive positioning view of strategic management. It draws upon both these views to better understand the role of manufacturing flexibility in firms.

Findings

The paper emphasizes the proactive use of manufacturing flexibility, as a means to create opportunities, in addition to its reactive use in response to environmental uncertainties. The integration of the resource‐based and competitive positioning views has implications for researchers in explaining inter‐firm performance differences and for practitioners in incorporating the role of manufacturing flexibility in their strategic thinking.

Research limitations/implications

The integration of these two theories should be empirically tested to provide a better understanding of the conditions under which alternative use is more critical in explaining a firm's success.

Practical implications

Manufacturing has been traditionally viewed as a reactive tool to adjust to environmental uncertainties. The paper argues that this approach is too narrow and emphasizes the proactive role of manufacturing flexibility as a competitive weapon in strategy formulation.

Originality/value

The paper suggests that the integration of the resource‐based and competitive positioning allows for a more complete picture of the role of manufacturing flexibility in creating a competitive advantage.
The dimensionality of trade show performance in an emerging market
Authors: Tafesse Wondwesen , Korneliussen Tor
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the underlying dimensions of trade show performance in an emerging market context. Firms in industrial and emerging markets typically differ in terms of access to firm level resource endowments. Such differences make attempts to generalize the trade show performance dimensions proposed for industrialized country exhibitors to emerging market exhibitors problematic. This motivates the need for understanding the dimensionality of trade show performance in an emerging market context.

Design/methodology/approach

Data obtained from firms that partake in an emerging market trade show that takes place in an emerging market are used to investigate the dimensionality of trade show performance. By subjecting several trade show performance items into principal component analysis, a multidimensional performance construct, applicable to emerging market exhibitors, is introduced.

Findings

The empirical findings show that trade show performance, in an emerging market context, is multidimensional. The findings suggest that emerging market exhibitors tend to utilize trade shows somewhat differently from their industrialized market counterparts.

Practical implications

The findings imply the need for exhibit managers in emerging markets to set multiple objectives for trade show participations. The findings also suggest that exhibit managers need to staff the trade show booth with individuals possessing different sets of expertise.

Originality/value

The paper clarifies the dimensionality of trade show performance in the context of emerging markets and sheds light on the tactical and the strategic roles that trade show participations play in emerging markets.
Learning at work: practical steps to maximize the individual and organizational benefits
Authors: Teare Richard
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to explore how organizations can use workplace learning to cope with and respond to change, create and sustain an active learning culture and monitor and evaluate their investment in organizational learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a series of questions and summaries from selected articles to review workplace learning and its role in developing professionalism, skills and competency and the main implications for training.

Findings

The paper concludes that a carefully crafted strategy for workplace learning will yield significant individual and organizational benefits.

Practical implications

The paper draws on a decade of experience in designing and implementing workplace learning initiatives used by large organizations in hospitality, tourism and other service industries.

Originality/value

The paper provides a checklist that can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of organizational learning.
The GULL story: “Enabling YOU to make a difference in OUR world”
Authors: Teare Richard
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline the mission of the Global University for Lifelong Learning (GULL) in supporting work and community‐based learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explains the principles on which GULL's action learning system are based and outlines a typical starting point for work‐based learning.

Findings

The paper concludes by identifying the role of systemized action learning in support of the agenda for human resource development at Sandals Resorts International.

Practical implications

The paper indicates how a narrative‐based approach to learning at work can be used to reflect and improve on personal and organizational performance.

Originality/value

The paper relates the literature on action learning to its implementation in workplace and community settings.
Action learning projects and teamworking at Beaches Turks & Caicos
Authors: Whitely‐Clarke Shelly‐Ann , Teare Richard
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to explain and illustrate the potential for workplace learning from small group projects and the role of action learning in fostering personal, professional and organizational outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a briefing session with resource and other examples to outline an effective process for establishing small group projects in the workplace.

Findings

Action learning releases the potential of all team members by enabling them to grow, to innovate and develop their creativity and talent by learning about themselves, from each other and from the workplace.

Practical implications

The paper outlines the approach used by one of the world's leading family resorts to ensure that personal and organizational learning keeps pace with change.

Originality/value

The paper draws on prior experience and examples to explain how an outcomes‐directed process has been embedded in a large resort with large‐scale team member participation.
The role of action learning in personal, professional and business development
Authors: Teare Richard , Cummings Wayne , Donaldson‐Brown Marsha‐Ann , Spittle Howard
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the perceptions and experiences of senior hotel industry practitioners in relation to business imperatives, career development and organizational learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses an interview discussion format to explore the challenges, benefits and outcomes of organizational development by action learning.

Findings

The paper observes that action learning provides an effective way of retaining, developing and enabling people to realize their potential at work and that this process is wholly beneficial to the host organization.

Practical implications

The paper provides senior leader insights on the potential for learning at work and the underlying themes that enable organizations to develop as authentic learning organizations.

Originality/value

The paper reveals the benefits of embedding and cascading action learning so that participants can develop themselves and at the same time, their workplace environment.
Enhancing Departments and Graduate Education in Geography: A Disciplinary Project in Professional Development
Authors: Solem Michael , Foote Kenneth
Published: January 2011

This paper describes the development, implementation, and preliminary outcomes of Enhancing Departments and Graduate Education (EDGE) in Geography, a multiyear project begun in 2005 to study the process of professional development in graduate geography in the U.S and sponsored by the National Science Foundation. As a research and action project responding to the needs of graduate geography programs, EDGE seeks to provide academic geographers with an empirical perspective of disciplinary as well as interdisciplinary and generic skills that M.A./M.S. and Ph.D. students develop as a result of graduate education. Related objectives are to understand how disciplinary skills are applied by geography graduates once they enter the professional workforce in both academic and nonacademic professional settings, and to gauge the extent graduate programs are sufficiently preparing geography graduates for those careers. We begin by summarizing the research goals and design of EDGE, highlighting the roles and contributions of geographers and educational researchers, and noting the interplay and synergy between disciplinary and interdisciplinary methodologies and practices. To date, research has focused on: (1) assessing contemporary workforce competencies in professional geography and (2) examining the role of department climate and culture on student experience and faculty development within masters and doctoral programs. Although the EDGE research efforts are still underway, we present some preliminary research findings and discuss the implications of those outcomes for professional development in geography and related social and environmental sciences. Also discussed is the complementary nature of disciplinebased and interdisciplinary professional development efforts.
Postdoctoral research positions as preparation for an academic career
Authors: Åkerlind Gerlese S.
Published: January 2011

Discussions of the nature and purpose of postdoctoral contract research positions is an area where assumptions and stereotypes tend to predominate. This is due to (a) recent changes in the higher education sector that have impacted on postdoctoral positions in a way that conflicts with traditional expectations, and (b) a relative lack of data and publications on postdoctoral positions, which creates a climate in which stereotypes can continue relatively unchallenged. This is unfortunate, because it limits the ability of supervisors to provide sound career advice to their postdocs as well as the ability of postdocs to make informed career decisions. Based on an extensive study of PDRs in Australia, this paper challenges four commonly held assumptions: 1. that postdoctoral researchers want an academic career; 2. that postdoctoral research positions provide a stepping stone to academic careers; 3. that postdoctoral research positions provide an opportunity for novice researchers to become increasingly independent; and 4. that postdoctoral research positions provide an opportunity for the incumbents to concentrate solely on research.
Well rounded Postdoctoral Researchers with initiative, who are not always “tied to the bench” are more successful academically
Authors: Lee Lucy J. , Gowers Isobel , Ellis Lorraine , Bellantuonoa Ilaria
Published: January 2011

This article reports the development, application and results of a baseline investigation of contract research staff in 2007 in the Medical School at the University of Sheffield which was carried out in order to develop a specifically tailored training and career development programme and allow for future impact evaluation of the scheme. Postdoctoral researchers reported on their perceived skill levels, academic achievements, career motivations and the current research environment. Results indicated that transferable skills related to communication and awareness of the process of research (i.e. the process of acquisition of funding, commercialisation of research outputs) were lacking. Furthermore, these skills were associated with higher publication outputs, and improved with mobility between institutions at postdoctoral level. This paper also describes how the findings from the baseline evaluation were used to develop a programme to address the lower ranking skills and evaluate the impact of the programme.
Grey system model with time lag and application to simulation of karst spring discharge
Authors: Hao Yonghong , Wang Yajie , Zhao Jiaojuan , Li Huamin
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the concept of time lag to grey system models, and propose the grey system models with time lags.

Design/methodology/approach

The models were applied to calculate the time lags between spring flow and precipitation (i.e. hydraulic response time) and simulate karst spring discharge in Liulin Springs Basin, China.

Findings

The results show that the time lags of Lishi, Zhongyang, and Fangshan are three, five, and eight, respectively. By considering the time lags, we set up the grey system GM(1,4) response model of Liulin Springs discharge to precipitation of Lishi, Zhongyang, and Fangshan.

Originality/value

The results are in agreement with regional geological structure and provide a better understanding of karst hydrological processes of Liulin Springs Basin.
Heterotrimeric stimulatory GTP‐binding proteins inhibit cisplatin‐induced apoptosis by increasing X‐linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein expression in cervical cancer cells
Authors: Cho Eun‐Ah , Oh Jung‐Min , Kim So‐Young , Kim Yeni , Juhnn Yong‐Sung
Published: January 2011

Treatment with cisplatin (cis‐dichlorodiammineplatinum (II)) induces DNA double‐stranded breaks and apoptosis in many human cancer cells. We have reported that heterotrimeric stimulatory GTP‐binding proteins (Gαs) can modulate the apoptotic response of several cancer cells. This study investigated the effect of Gαs on apoptosis triggered by cisplatin and its underlying molecular mechanism in cervical cancer cells. Stable expression of constitutively active Gαs (GαsQL) decreased the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria to the cytosol and cleavage of caspase‐3 and poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerases in HeLa cells treated with 30 μM cisplatin, indicating that Gαs inhibited cisplatin‐induced apoptosis. Treatment with forskolin also inhibited apoptosis of C33A and CaSKi cervical cancer cells. Expression of GαsQL increased the expression of the X‐linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) and partially maintained increased XIAP after cisplatin treatment. Knockdown of XIAP by siRNA augmented apoptosis. Expression of GαsQL increased XIAP mRNA; this increase was inhibited by a protein kinase A inhibitor and cAMP response element (CRE) decoy. A cAMP response element (CRE)‐like element at −1396 bp in the XIAP promoter was found to mediate the induction of XIAP by Gαs. In addition, expression of GαsQL protected against the ubiquitin/proteasome‐dependent degradation of the XIAP protein. This study shows that Gαs inhibits cisplatin‐induced apoptosis by increasing transcription of XIAP and by decreasing degradation of XIAP protein in HeLa cervical cancer cells. (Cancer Sci 2011; 102: 837–844)
How do insects react to novel inherited symbionts? A microarray analysis of Drosophila melanogaster response to the presence of natural and introduced Spiroplasma
Authors: HUTCHENCE KATE J. , FISCHER BETTINA , PATERSON STEVE , HURST GREGORY D. D.
Published: January 2011

Maternally inherited endosymbionts are found in numerous insect species and have various effects on host ecology. New symbioses are most commonly established following lateral transfer of an existing symbiont from one host species to another. Laboratory study has demonstrated that symbionts commonly perform poorly in novel hosts, with weak vertical transmission and maladaptive pathogenicity being observed in the generations following transfer. This poor performance probably limits symbiont occurrence. We here use microarray technology to test whether poor symbiont performance observed following 1 year of vertical transmission through a new host is associated with alteration in host gene expression or whether it occurs independently of this. We utilize the Drosophila melanogaster—Spiroplasma interaction and test the response of the host in the presence of both natural Spiroplasma infections and novel Spiroplasma infections transinfected previously from other host species. None of the Spiroplasma infections investigated produced upregulation in host haemolymph/fat body‐based immune responses, and we therefore rejected the hypothesis that failure to thrive was associated with immune upregulation. One infection was associated with a downregulation of genes associated with egg production compared to uninfected controls, indicative of damage to the host. The Spiroplasma infection showed that the weakest vertical transmission showed no significant disturbance to host gene expression compared to uninfected controls. We conclude that the failure of Spiroplasma in novel host species is associated either with causing harm to their new hosts or through a failure to thrive in the new host that occurs independently of host responses to infection.
Transcriptional plasticity of a soil arthropod across different ecological conditions
Authors: DE BOER TJALF E. , BIRLUTIU ADRIANA , BOCHDANOVITS ZOLTAN , TIMMERMANS MARTIJN J. T. N. , DIJKSTRA TJEERD M. H. , VAN STRAALEN NICO M. , YLSTRA BAUKE , ROELOFS DICK
Published: January 2011

Ecological functional genomics, dealing with the responses of organisms to their natural environment is confronted with a complex pattern of variation and a large number of confounding environmental factors. For gene expression studies to provide meaningful information on conditions deviating from normal, a baseline or normal operating range (NOR) response needs to be established which indicates how an organism’s transcriptome reacts to naturally varying ecological factors. Here we determine the transcriptional plasticity of a soil arthropod, Folsomia candida, exposed to various natural environments, as part of a first attempt in establishing such a NOR. Animals were exposed to 26 different field soils after which gene expression levels were measured. The main factor found to regulate gene expression was soil‐type (sand or clay). Cell homeostasis and DNA replication were affected in collembolans exposed to sandy soil, indicating general stress. Multivariate analysis identified soil fertility as the main factor influencing gene expression. Regarding land‐use, only forest soils showed an expression pattern deviating from the others. No significant effect of land‐use, agricultural practice or soil type on fitness was observed, but arsenic concentration was negatively correlated with reproductive output. In conclusion, transcriptional responses remained within a limited range across the different land‐uses but were significantly affected by soil‐type. This may be caused by the contrasting soil physicochemical properties to which F. candida strongly responds. The broad range of conditions over which this soil‐living detritivore is able to survive and reproduce, indicates a strategy of high plasticity, which comes with extensive gene expression regulation.
How much can parentage analyses tell us about precapture dispersal?
Authors: WASER P. M. , HADFIELD J. D.
Published: January 2011

Estimating rates of movement among populations is never simple, and where young animals cannot all be captured at their birth sites, traditional field methods potentially underestimate dispersal rates. Genetic assignment tests appear to hold promise for detecting ‘precapture’ dispersal, and recent evidence suggests that even on the scale of dispersal between populations, genetic parentage analyses can also be informative. Herein, we examine the performance of both types of analysis with data from a 17‐year study of dispersal in banner‐tailed kangaroo rats Dipodomys spectabilis. We compare estimates of precapture dispersal from (i) the commonly used parentage analysis program cervus (ii) a pedigree‐reconstruction program, MasterBayes, that combines genetic with spatial and other nongenetic information and (iii) genetic assignment procedures implemented by the program geneclass2, with (iv) rates of dispersal observed through recapture of a subset of animals initially marked shortly after weaning. geneclass2 estimates a larger proportion of precapture dispersers than MasterBayes, but both approaches as well as those based on field data alone, suggest that approximately 10% of adults in local populations are immigrants and that interpopulation dispersal is slightly female‐biassed. All genetic procedures detect precapture dispersal between populations, but dispersers identified by MasterBayes are particularly compatible with what is independently known about body mass at dispersal, dispersal distance and distance between parents. Parentage analyses have considerable potential to infer the value of this otherwise elusive demographic parameter when most candidate parents can be genotyped and when nongenetic information, especially the distance separating candidate mothers and fathers, can be incorporated into the procedure.
Metabolomics data reveal a crucial role of cytosolic glutamine synthetase 1;1 in coordinating metabolic balance in rice
Authors: Kusano Miyako , Tabuchi Mayumi , Fukushima Atsushi , Funayama Kazuhiro , Diaz Céline , Kobayashi Makoto , Hayashi Naomi , Tsuchiya Yumiko N. , Takahashi Hideki , Kamata Atsuko , Yamaya Tomoyuki , Saito Kazuki
Published: January 2011

Rice plants grown in paddy fields preferentially use ammonium as a source of inorganic nitrogen. Glutamine synthetase (GS) catalyses the conversion of ammonium to glutamine. Of the three genes encoding cytosolic GS in rice,OsGS1;1is critical for normal growth and grain filling. However, the basis of its physiological function that may alter the rate of nitrogen assimilation and carbon metabolism within the context of metabolic networks remains unclear. To address this issue, we carried out quantitative comparative analyses between the metabolite profiles of a rice mutant lackingOsGS1;1and its background wild type (WT). The mutant plants exhibited severe retardation of shoot growth in the presence of ammonium compared with the WT. Overaccumulation of free ammonium in the leaf sheath and roots of the mutant indicated the importance ofOsGS1;1for ammonium assimilation in both organs. The metabolite profiles of the mutant line revealed: (i) an imbalance in levels of sugars, amino acids and metabolites in the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and (ii) overaccumulation of secondary metabolites, particularly in the roots under a continuous supply of ammonium. Metabolite‐to‐metabolite correlation analysis revealed the presence of mutant‐specific networks between tryptamine and other primary metabolites in the roots. These results demonstrated a crucial function ofOsGS1;1in coordinating the global metabolic network in rice plants grown using ammonium as the nitrogen source.
Population genetics of the endangered Cantabrian capercaillie in northern Spain
Authors: Alda F. , Sastre P. , De La Cruz‐Cardiel P. J. , Doadrio I.
Published: January 2011

In this study, we examine the effects of habitat fragmentation on the genetic structure of the Cantabrian capercaillie Tetrao urogallus cantabricus, based on eight microsatellite loci in non‐invasive samples collected across its entire distribution range in northern Spain. For this purpose, we used Bayesian clustering methods and landscape connectivity analyses. We found low genetic diversity and significant genetic differentiation across the subspecies distribution range. Based on the isolation‐by‐distance pattern observed, we hypothesized that the low dispersal of the species and the habitat configuration might be shaping the genetic structure of Cantabrian capercaillie, and cause reduced gene flow and diversity of some areas. Three genetic clusters were inferred, one in the northern and two in the southern slope of the Cantabrian Mountains. Our results suggest that small but abundant forest patches on the northern slope of the Cantabrian range do not seem to represent a barrier to gene flow, whereas the more isolated forests in the southern Cantabrian Mountains do represent such a barrier. This result was not concordant with the structure proposed based on lek occupation patterns. Conservation strategies should include restoration of forest connectivity to the extent possible.
The memory enhancing effect of the APP‐derived tripeptide Ac‐rER is mediated through CRMP2
Authors: Mileusnic Radmila , Rose Steven P. R.
Published: January 2011

J. Neurochem.(2011)118, 616–625.

The diasteromeric (D/L) form of the acetylated tripeptide rER (NH2‐d‐arg‐l‐glu‐d‐arg‐COOH), derived from the external domain of amyloid precursor protein, protects against amyloid‐β induced memory loss for a passive avoidance task in young chicks and enhances retention for a weak version of the task when injected peripherally up to 12 h prior to training. The tripeptide readily crosses the blood‐brain barrier, binds to receptor sites in the brain and is without adverse effects on general behaviour. The mechanisms of its action are unknown, as are its target molecules/pathways. Here, we report the binding partners for Ac‐rER are collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2), syntaxin binding protein 1 and heat shock protein 70. Behavioural studies of the effects of Ac‐rER on memory retention confirmed that the effect of Ac‐rER is mediated via CRMP2, as anti‐CRMP2 antibodies if injected intracranially 30 min pre‐training, induced amnesia for the passive avoidance task. However, Ac‐rER, if injected prior to the anti‐CRMP2, rescues the memory deficits induced by anti‐CRMP2 antibodies. As CRMP2 is placed at the junction of many different cellular processes during brain development and in adult neuronal plasticity as well as being implicated in Alzheimer’s disease, this strengthens the claim that Ac‐rER may be a potential therapeutic agent in Alzheimer’s disease, although its precise mode of action remains to be elucidated.
Cytosolic zinc release and clearance in hippocampal neurons exposed to glutamate – the role of pH and sodium
Authors: Kiedrowski Lech
Published: January 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 117, 231–243.

Although Zn2+ homeostasis in neurons is tightly regulated and its destabilization has been linked to a number of pathologies including Alzheimer’s disease and ischemic neuronal death, the primary mechanisms affecting intracellular Zn2+ concentration ([Zn2+]i) in neurons exposed to excitotoxic stimuli remain poorly understood. The present work addressed these mechanisms in cultured hippocampal neurons exposed to glutamate and glycine (Glu/Gly). [Zn2+]i and intracellular Ca2+ concentration were monitored simultaneously using FluoZin‐3 and Fura‐2FF, and intracellular pH (pHi) was studied in parallel experiments using 2′,7′‐bis‐(2‐carboxyethyl)‐5(6)‐carboxyfluorescein. Glu/Gly applications under Na+‐free conditions (Na+ substituted with N‐methyl‐d‐glucamine+) caused Ca2+ influx, pHi drop, and Zn2+ release from intracellular stores. Experimental maneuvers resulting in a pHi increase during Glu/Gly applications, such as stimulation of Na+‐dependent pathways of H+ efflux, forcing H+ efflux via gramicidin‐formed channels, or increasing extracellular pH counteracted [Zn2+]i elevations. In the absence of Na+, the rate of [Zn2+]i decrease could be correlated with the rate of pHi increase. In the presence of Na+, the rate of [Zn2+]i decrease was about twice as fast as expected from the rate of pHi elevation. The data suggest that Glu/Gly‐induced cytosolic acidification promotes [Zn2+]i elevations and that Na+ counteracts the latter by promoting pHi‐dependent and pHi‐independent mechanisms of cytosolic Zn2+ clearance.
Gene expression profile in JNK3 null mice: a novel specific activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: Junyent Fèlix , de Lemos Luisa , Verdaguer Ester , Folch Jaume , Ferrer Isidre , Ortuño‐Sahagún Daniel , Beas‐Zárate Carlos , Romero Rafael , Pallàs Merce , Auladell Carme , Camins Antoni
Published: January 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 117, 244–252.

JNK3 is mainly expressed in the CNS and it plays a crucial role in neuronal death in several neurodegenerative diseases. By contrast, the isoforms JNK1 and JNK2 seem to be involved in brain development. The lack of Jnk3 confers neuroprotection, although mechanisms responsible are unknown. The present study analyzes the gene expression profile in hippocampus from mice lacking Jnk3 in comparison to wild‐type mice. The microarray analysis showed that 22 genes are differentially expressed (z‐score > 2 in two independent arrays) in Jnk3 null mice. Among these, we focused on pi3kcb, as it is directly related to the prosurvival phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway. Results from Jnk3 null mice showed an increase in pik3cb transcript and protein, together with an increase in PI3K activity and phosphorylation of AKT. By contrast, these changes were not observed in Jnk1 null mice, which do not present neuroresistance to certain neurodegenerative insults. Therefore, our results indicate that the activation of PI3K/AKT pathway in hippocampus because of the increase in pik3cb transcription and that this mechanism is specifically related to the lack of Jnk3.
Rab GTPases Regulating Phagosome Maturation Are Differentially Recruited to Mycobacterial Phagosomes
Authors: Seto Shintaro , Tsujimura Kunio , Koide Yukio
Published: January 2011

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb) is an intracellular pathogen that can replicate within infected macrophages. The ability of M. tb to arrest phagosome maturation is believed to facilitate its intracellular multiplication. Rab GTPases regulate membrane trafficking, but details of how Rab GTPases regulate phagosome maturation and how M. tb modulates their localization during inhibiting phagolysosome biogenesis remain elusive. We compared the localization of 42 distinct Rab GTPases to phagosomes containing either Staphylococcus aureus or M. tb. The phagosomes containing S. aureus were associated with 22 Rab GTPases, but only 5 of these showed similar localization kinetics as the phagosomes containing M. tb. The Rab GTPases responsible for phagosome maturation, phagosomal acidification and recruitment of cathepsin D were examined in macrophages expressing the dominant‐negative form of each Rab GTPase. LysoTracker staining and immunofluorescence microscopy revealed that Rab7, Rab20 and Rab39 regulated phagosomal acidification and Rab7, Rab20, Rab22b, Rab32, Rab34, Rab38 and Rab43 controlled the recruitment of cathepsin D to the phagosome. These results suggest that phagosome maturation is achieved by a series of interactions between Rab GTPases and phagosomes and that differential recruitment of these Rab GTPases, except for Rab22b and Rab43, to M. tb‐containing phagosomes is involved in arresting phagosome maturation and inhibiting phagolysosome biogenesis.