bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Molecular mousetraps and the serpinopathies
Authors: Lomas D.A. , Belorgey D. , Mallya M. , Miranda E. , Kinghorn K.J. , Sharp L.K. , Phillips R.L. , Page R. , Robertson A.S. , Crowther D.C. 
Published: April 2005

Members of the serine proteinase inhibitor or serpin superfamily inhibit their target proteinases by a remarkable conformational transition that involves the enzyme being translocated more than 70 Å (1 Å=10−10 m) from the upper to the lower pole of the inhibitor. This elegant mechanism is subverted by point mutations to form ordered polymers that are retained within the endoplasmic reticulum of secretory cells. The accumulation of polymers underlies the retention of mutants of α1-antitrypsin and neuroserpin within hepatocytes and neurons to cause cirrhosis and dementia respectively. The formation of polymers results in the failure to secrete mutants of other members of the serpin superfamily: antithrombin, C1 inhibitor and α1-antichymotrypsin, to cause a plasma deficiency that results in the clinical syndromes of thrombosis, angio-oedema and emphysema respectively. Understanding the common mechanism underlying the retention and deficiency of mutants of the serpins has allowed us to group these conditions as the serpinopathies. We review in this paper the molecular and structural basis of the serpinopathies and show how this has allowed the development of specific agents to block the polymerization that underlies disease.
Insulin signal transduction in human skeletal muscle: identifying the defects in Type II diabetes
Authors: Björnholm M. , Zierath J.R. 
Published: April 2005

Type II diabetes is characterized by defects in insulin action on peripheral tissues, such as skeletal muscle, adipose tissue and liver and pancreatic β-cell defects. Since the skeletal muscle accounts for approx. 75% of whole body insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, defects in this tissue play a major role in the impaired glucose homoeostasis in Type II diabetic patients. Thus identifying defective steps in this process may reveal attractive targets for drug development to combat insulin resistance and Type II diabetes. This review will describe the effects of insulin on glucose transport and other metabolic events in skeletal muscle that are mediated by intracellular signalling cascades. Evidence for impaired activation of the insulin receptor signalling cascade and defective glucose transporter 4 translocation in the skeletal muscle from Type II diabetic patients will be presented. Through the identification of the intracellular defects in insulin action that control glucose homoeostasis, a better understanding of the disease pathogenesis can be gained and strategies for intervention may be developed.
Modulation of insulin signalling by insulin sensitizers
Authors: Jiang G. , Zhang B.B. 
Published: April 2005

Insulin resistance is a hallmark of Type II diabetes. It is well documented that insulin sensitizers such as peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor γ agonists and aspirin improve insulin action in vivo. The detailed mechanisms by which the insulin sensitizers promote insulin signalling, however, are not completely understood and remain somewhat controversial. In the present review, we summarize our studies attempting to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of insulin sensitizers in cells and in animal models of insulin resistance. In 3T3-L1 adipocytes and/or in HEK-293 cells stably expressing recombinant IRS1 protein (insulin receptor substrate protein 1), the peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor γ agonist rosiglitazone and aspirin promote insulin signalling by decreasing inhibitory IRS1 serine phosphorylation. Increased IRS1 Ser-307 phosphorylation and concomitant decreased insulin signalling as measured by insulin-stimulated IRS1 tyrosine phosphorylation and Akt threonine phosphorylation were observed in adipose tissues of Zucker obese rats compared with lean control rats. Treatment with rosiglitazone for 24 and 48 h increased insulin signalling and decreased IRS1 Ser-307 phosphorylation concomitantly. Treatment of the Zucker obese rats with rosiglitazone for 24 h also reversed the high circulating levels of free fatty acids, which have been shown to correlate with increased IRS1 serine phosphorylation. Taken together, the results suggest that IRS1 inhibitory serine phosphorylation is a key component of insulin resistance and its reversal may be physiologically relevant to insulin sensitization in vivo.
Post-translational regulation in plants employing a diverse set of polypeptide tags
Authors: Downes B. , Vierstra R.D. 
Published: April 2005

The concept that plants exploit polypeptides as post-translational modifiers is rapidly emerging as an important method to manipulate various cellular processes. The best known is Ub (ubiquitin) that serves as reusable tag for selective protein degradation by the 26 S proteasome and for endosomal trafficking. Genomic analyses indicate that Ub pathway alone comprises over 6% of the Arabidopsis proteome with thousands of proteins being targets. Consequently, this pathway influences much of plant biology. Others tags include RUB-1 (related to Ub-1; also known as NEDD8), SUMO (small Ub-like modifier), ATG-8 (autophagy-8) and ATG-12, UFM-1 (Ub-fold modifier-1) and HUB-1 (homology to Ub-1). Preliminary studies indicate that these tags have much more limited sets of targets and provide more specialized functions, including transcriptional regulation, protein localization, autophagic turnover and antagonizing the effects of Ub. On the basis of their widespread distribution and pervasive functions, peptide tags can now be considered as prime players in plant cell regulation.
E‐learning: what the literature tells us about distance education
Authors: Williams Pete , Nicholas David , Gunter Barrie 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThe CIBER group at University College London are currently evaluating a distance education initiative funded by the Department of Health, providing in‐service training to NHS staff via DiTV and satellite to PC systems. This paper aims to provide the context for the project by outlining a short history of distance education, describing the media used in providing remote education, and to review research literature on achievement, attitude, barriers to learning and learner characteristics.Design/methodology/approachLiterature review, with particular, although not exclusive, emphasis on health.FindingsThe literature shows little difference in achievement between distance and traditional learners, although using a variety of media, both to deliver pedagogic material and to facilitate communication, does seem to enhance learning. Similarly, attitudinal studies appear to show that the greater number of channels offered, the more positive students are about their experiences. With regard to barriers to completing courses, the main problems appear to be family or work obligations.Research limitations/implicationsThe research work this review seeks to consider is examining “on‐demand” showing of filmed lectures via a DiTV system. The literature on DiTV applications research, however, is dominated by studies of simultaneous viewing by on‐site and remote students, rather than “on‐demand”.Practical implicationsCurrent research being carried out by the authors should enhance the findings accrued by the literature, by exploring the impact of “on‐demand” video material, delivered by DiTV – something no previous research appears to have examined.Originality/valueDiscusses different electronic systems and their exploitation for distance education, and cross‐references these with several aspects evaluated in the literature: achievement, attitude, barriers to take‐up or success, to provide a holistic picture hitherto missing from the literature.
Tackling student referencing errors through an online tutorial
Authors: Kendall Margaret 
Published: April 2005

PurposeTo evaluate the impact of an interactive online tutorial aiming to improve student citing and referencing practice.Design/methodology/approachAction research involving three cycles of activity: identification of the most frequently occurring errors made by new undergraduates and postgraduates following instruction in citing and reference practice given in the autumn of 2002; creation of the tutorial for use by the same students in spring 2003, with the quizzes contributing to a portfolio assessment for the undergraduates. Comparison of the students’ performance before and after using the tutorial, monitoring through WebCT tracking facilities and usability tests with dyslexic students; adoption of the tutorial as the standard departmental practice, repeating the monitoring activities to compare the results with the previous year.FindingsThe results of the first cycle of activity showed a high number of errors, despite the instruction received by students, and the need to start the tutorial at an unanticipated basic level. The students responded positively to the tutorial and some improvements in practice were identified, although the tracking facilities revealed limited use by some undergraduates. Comparison of the errors made in 2003‐2004 with those of 2002‐2003 showed improvements all round.Research limitations/implicationsSome of the improvements may be accounted for by the change of practice part way through the previous academic year and other interventions.Originality/valueThe methods used will inform others wishing to carry out and evaluate online learning initiatives. It shows a qualified success in the use of online learning for this purpose.
Information management and e‐learning
Authors: Akeroyd John 
Published: April 2005

PurposeTo provide a review of the interface between e‐learning, digital libraries and learning content.Design/methodology/approachA review of current thinking and activity surrounding the delivery of content in e‐learning systems. Some analysis of information concerns and commentary on future scenarios.FindingsThe paper investigates the reality of information management in e‐learning practice. It looks at types of information extant in systems and analyses links between (virtual) learning environments, digital libraries and web content. It examines the potential for reuse of material in a university context and the supporting standards and technology.Research limitations/implicationsLooks particularly at UK and US context but also has an international dimension.Originality/valueIt brings together a disposable set of issues to provide a discursive but practical summary of the topic. It will be of value to an information manager faced with managing content in a learning organisation.
Dominant supply chain co‐ordination strategies in the Dutch aerospace industry
Authors: Voordijk Hans , Meijboom Bert 
Published: April 2005

PurposeFirms in the aerospace industry face considerable pressure to improve co‐ordination in their supply chains. The major question of the present study is what supply chain co‐ordination strategies are dominant in the Dutch aerospace industry given the market environment of this industry?Design/methodology/approachBecause information is the key ingredient for coordinating the supply chain in a given problem situation, an information processing point of view is adopted. In the empirical research, supply chain co‐ordination strategies are investigated for six Dutch‐based aerospace firms with different products and technologies.FindingsIt is concluded that in terms of the framework of Galbraith, co‐ordination strategies increasing the capacity to process information dominate supply chain management in the Dutch aerospace industry. The information‐processing capacity is increased by investing in lateral relations, long‐term planning and information systems between companies involved in the same supply chain.Originality/valueInformation is provided on Dutch aerospace firms' supply chain strategies.
Development of reaction wheels housing for micro‐satellites
Authors: Yeong Yong Sing , Chandrakant Joshi Sunil 
Published: April 2005

PurposeNowadays, many micro‐satellites rely on three‐axis stabilization using at least three reaction wheels (RWs) for attitude control. Typically, RWs are mounted separately within the satellite and leads to long wires from each RW to the associated electronics. Placement and other constraints may also arise during integration. Furthermore, the large number of mounting holes required for mounting the RWs directly on the structural panels may weaken the integrity of the structure. This paper highlights a need for a special housing to be designed for mounting three to four RWs as a group at one location for simple and easy three‐axis stabilization of typical micro‐satellites.Design/methodology/approachDetails about the development of the design methodology for such housing are discussed. The basic idea is to place the RWs onto the proposed housing, which will be then mounted on to one of the honeycomb panels used for the satellite structure. Requirements analysis, design, validation, and manufacturing process are covered.FindingsThe outcome is a dimensionally optimized housing structure for four RWs with a frequency safety factor of three.Originality/valueIn summary, the designed product satisfied all requirements. In addition, the exercise set out a planned procedure for designing similar housings for other satellite components.
Cutting temperature measurement while machining – a review
Authors: Longbottom J.M. , Lanham J.D. 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThis paper gives the background to the measurement of metal cutting temperatures and a review of the practicality of the various methods of measuring cutting temperature while machining metals.Design/methodology/approachThe review was compiled after a literature search, visits to other research establishments and discussions with other researchers in the machining/temperature measurement field.FindingsInformation about several methods of measuring cutting temperature during a machining process is given along with the limitations of the use of each method.Practical implicationsAll the temperature measurement methods discussed have their limitations and these are described for each method listed.Originality/valueThe paper provides a review of all the cutting temperature measurement methods discovered in recent work. This will be a reference document of interest to others working in this field.
Food safety information and food demand
Authors: Smed Sinne , Dejgaard Jensen Jørgen 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze how news about food‐related health risks affects consumers’ demands for safe food products.Design/methodology/approachBy identifying structural breaks in an econometrically estimated demand model, news with permanent impact on demand is distinguished from news with temporary impact. The Danish demand for pasteurized versus shell eggs is used as an illustrative case.FindingsNegative safety news about one product variety can provide significant stimulation to the demand for safe varieties. Severe negative news about the safety of shell eggs induces a permanent increase in the demand for pasteurized eggs, while more moderate negative news influences demand temporarily and to a lesser extent. There is, however, considerable variation in the response to food safety news across socio‐demographic groups of consumers.Research limitations/implicationsThe study has focused on the demand for raw eggs. Responses to food safety news may differ across foods. Furthermore, the study abstracts from possible cross‐effects of safety news concerning other foods.Practical implicationsThe findings may be utilized for optimization of the timing and targeting of food safety information campaigns.Originality/valueThe paper combines information, food safety and econometric methods to analyze the cross‐impacts between negative food safety news and the demand for safe foods.
Creating a winning board: differing approaches of the boards of successful and struggling companies
Authors: Coulson‐Thomas Colin 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThe article is intended to share findings from an ongoing investigation undertaken by questionnaire survey, interview and in‐company observation into the leadership of performance improvement and corporate transformation.Design/methodology/approachThe article examines and compares the approaches and behaviours of winning and losing boards.FindingsDirectors and boards of companies that succeed at managing change, competing and winning exhibit very different approachesPractical implicationsTrainers and developers need to understand the differing approaches of the boards of successful and struggling companies and encourage and help directors, both individually and collectively, to learn from, emulate and develop the approaches and behaviours of those boards that are successful in managing change, competing and winning.Originality/valueThe article highlights behaviours and approaches that trainers and developers need to encourage if directors and boards are to become more effective at managing change, competing and winning.
Winston Churchill, a leader from history or an inspiration for the future?
Authors: Longstaffe Caroline 
Published: April 2005

PurposeIn a world where the need for effective leadership has never been greater this article aims to: demonstrate that Sir Winston Churchill exemplified key leadership principles; that these principles are still relevant today; that Churchill remains a source of inspiration throughout the world to leaders both in business and politics; and that these principles are all behavioral and can be learnt by others.Design/methodology/approachThe key leadership principles are identified. For each principle an examination is made of Churchill's behavior and how he exemplified each principle. Examples are also given from modern‐day leaders.FindingsChurchill's leadership style demonstrates how his behaviour exemplifies key leadership principles which are still relevant today and can be used as a model for learning by others in order to become a more effective leader.Originality/valueThe paper is of value for anyone in any field that aspires to lead by demonstrating that leadership skills are about behaviour which can be learnt. The paper achieves this by examining the leadership principles Churchill exemplified showing how they are still relevant today.
Co‐ordination and delegation: the core development competencies to create a competitive edge (part 1)
Authors: Eales‐White R.M.D. 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThis paper aims to enable the reader to understand: Herrmann's whole‐brained thinking model and its impact on language and difference; trends in development and the need for team‐based whole‐brained learning; why most culture change initiatives fail; what constitutes a core competence; and how a whole‐brained approach is required to ensure culture change, strategy development and the implementation of core competencies.Design/methodology/approachThe four thinking preferences are explained and examples provided of the use of different language for each of the four quadrants of the brain. The trends in development from left‐brained to right‐brained are set out and an example provided of how whole‐brained learning is most effective. Five generic reasons for the failure of culture change initiatives are set out. The core competence of the corporation is explained as well as how it was vital to success that each quadrant of the brain, i.e. the whole brain, is applied in an integrated way to achieve effective implementation.FindingsThere is a direct link between organisational profitability and culture. A whole‐brained approach to the implementation of strategy, culture change and people development is required.Originality/valueDevelops an understanding of the nature of our thinking preferences and how to apply an integrated whole‐brained approach to the successful development and implementation of strategy, culture change and core competences, thereby gaining a long‐term sustainable competitive edge in the market‐place.
ROI on a shoestring: evaluation strategies for resource‐constrained environments or ROI on a shoestring
Authors: Burkett Holly 
Published: April 2005

PurposeDespite heightened interest in return‐on‐investment (ROI) and increased accountability for training professionals to prove their bottom‐line organizational value, many practitioners are deterred from comprehensive measurement and ROI evaluation due to concerns about the cost, time, and human resources necessary to fully implement the process. This article, the second in a two part series, aims to present best practice, cost savings approaches for developing a credible, economical ROI strategy.Design/methodology/approachA systemic approach to measuring training's impact begins with an evaluation framework. For purposes of this article, Phillips' (1997) five‐level framework for capturing the financial impact of training programs was referenced. Based upon over 20 years of research and global applications, Phillips' ROI model also includes techniques for isolating the impact of other variables, besides training, upon performance improvement.FindingsMany organizations around the globe are using cost‐saving approaches so they can begin conducting ROI evaluation within their current budget while others use cost‐saving approaches in order to increase the number of ROI studies they conduct. The ten cost saving approaches for measuring programs at the ROI level have been proven to significantly decrease resource requirements while still providing sound, credible data. Despite these factors, establishing an evaluation culture is no easy task. In many ways, implementing a system‐wide ROI effort is similar to implementing a large‐scale change initiative.Practical implicationsPractical application of these cost‐savings approaches allows the resource‐constrained training function to present their work in terms of financial benefits that leaders understand and have come to expect. It is a vital step in establishing business partnerships that will enhance commitment for training programs, products, and services going forward.Originality/valueBy evaluating training programs with the ROI in mind, training functions can be perceived in a more credible light. Programs aligned with organization strategy are offered, while others that add little value are redesigned and sometimes eliminated. Trainers, designers and developers can use the findings of an ROI evaluation to increase training alignment with business needs and to improve the efficiency of the training design, development, and delivery life cycle.