bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitric Oxide Mediates the Indole Acetic Acid Induction Activation of a Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Cascade Involved in Adventitious Root Development
Authors: Pagnussat Gabriela Carolina , Lanteri María Luciana , Lombardo María Cristina , Lamattina Lorenzo
Published: May 2004

Recently, it was demonstrated that nitric oxide (NO) and cGMP are involved in the auxin response during the adventitious rooting process in cucumber (Cucumis sativus; Pagnussat et al., 2002, 2003). However, not much is known about the complex molecular network operating during the cell proliferation and morphogenesis triggered by auxins and NO in that process. Anatomical studies showed that formation of adventitious root primordia was clearly detected in indole acetic acid (IAA)- and NO-treated cucumber explants, while neither cell proliferation nor differentiation into root primordia could be observed in control explants 3 d after primary root was removed. In order to go further with signal transduction mechanisms that operate during IAA- and NO-induced adventitious root formation, experiments were designed to test the involvement of a mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade in that process. Cucumber explants were treated with the NO-donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP) or with SNP plus the specific NO-scavenger cPTIO. Protein extracts from those explants were assayed for protein kinase (PK) activity by using myelin basic protein (MBP) as substrate in both in vitro and in-gel assays. The activation of a PK of approximately 48 kD could be detected 1 d after NO treatment with a maximal activation after 3 d of treatment. In control explants, a PK activity was detected only after 4 d of treatment. The MBP-kinase activity was also detected in extracts from IAA-treated explants, while no signal was observed in IAA + cPTIO treatments. The PK activity could be inhibited by the cell-permeable MAPK kinase inhibitor PD098059, suggesting that the NO-dependent MBP-kinase activity is a MAPK. Furthermore, when PD098059 was administered to explants treated with SNP or IAA, it produced a delay in root emergence and a dose-dependent reduction in root number. Altogether, our results suggest that a MAPK signaling cascade is activated during the adventitious rooting process induced by IAA in a NO-mediated but cGMP-independent pathway. The activation of MAPKs is discussed in relation to the cell responses modulating mitotic process.
Patterns of Auxin Distribution during Gravitational Induction of Reaction Wood in Poplar and Pine
Authors: Hellgren Jenny M. , Olofsson Kjell , Sundberg Björn
Published: May 2004

Gravistimulation of tree stems affects wood development by unilaterally inducing wood with modified properties, called reaction wood. Commonly, it also stimulates cambial growth on the reaction wood side. Numerous experiments involving applications of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) or IAA-transport inhibitors have suggested that reaction wood is induced by a redistribution of IAA around the stem. However, in planta proof for this model is lacking. Therefore, we have mapped endogenous IAA distribution across the cambial region tissues in both aspen (Populus tremula, denoted poplar) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) trees forming reaction wood, using tangential cryosectioning combined with sensitive gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. Moreover, we have documented the kinetics of IAA during reaction wood induction in these species. Our analysis of endogenous IAA demonstrates that reaction wood is formed without any obvious alterations in IAA balance. This is in contrast to gravitropic responses in roots and shoots where a redistribution of IAA has been documented. It is also of interest that cambial growth on the tension wood side was stimulated without an increase in IAA. Taken together, our results suggest a role for signals other than IAA in the reaction wood response, or that the gravitational stimulus interacts with the IAA signal transduction pathway.
Cloning and Overproduction of Gibberellin 3-Oxidase in Hybrid Aspen Trees. Effects on Gibberellin Homeostasis and Development
Authors: Israelsson Maria , Mellerowicz Ewa , Chono Makiko , Gullberg Jonas , Moritz Thomas
Published: May 2004

To broaden our understanding of gibberellin (GA) biosynthesis and the mechanism whereby GA homeostasis is maintained in plants, we have investigated the degree to which the enzyme GA 3-oxidase (GA3ox) limits the formation of bioactive GAs in elongating shoots of hybrid aspen (Populus tremula × Populus tremuloides). We describe the cloning of a hybrid aspen GA3ox and its functional characterization, which confirmed that it has 3β-hydroxylation activity and more efficiently converts GA9 to GA4 than GA20 to GA1. To complement previous studies, in which transgenic GA 20-oxidase (GA20ox) overexpressers were found to produce 20-fold higher bioactive GA levels and subsequently grew faster than wild-type plants, we overexpressed an Arabidopsis GA3ox in hybrid aspen. The generated GA3ox overexpresser lines had increased 3β-hydroxylation activity but exhibited no major changes in morphology. The nearly unaltered growth pattern was associated with relatively small changes in GA1 and GA4 levels, although tissue-dependent differences were observed. The absence of increases in bioactive GA levels did not appear to be due to feedback or feed-forward regulation of dioxygenase transcripts, according to semiquantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis of PttGA20ox1, PttGA3ox1, and two putative PttGA2ox genes. We conclude that 20-oxidation is the limiting step, rather than 3β-hydroxylation, in the formation of GA1 and GA4 in elongating shoots of hybrid aspen, and that ectopic GA3ox expression alone cannot increase the flux toward bioactive GAs. Finally, several lines of evidence now suggest that GA4 has a more pivotal role in the tree hybrid aspen than previously believed.
Analysis of Nitric Oxide Signaling Functions in Tobacco Cells Challenged by the Elicitor Cryptogein
Authors: Lamotte Olivier , Gould Kevin , Lecourieux David , Sequeira-Legrand Anabelle , Lebrun-Garcia Angela , Durner Jörg , Pugin Alain , Wendehenne David
Published: May 2004

Nitric oxide (NO) has recently emerged as an important cellular mediator in plant defense responses. However, elucidation of the biochemical mechanisms by which NO participates in this signaling pathway is still in its infancy. We previously demonstrated that cryptogein, an elicitor of tobacco defense responses, triggers a NO burst within minutes in epidermal sections from tobacco leaves (Nicotiana tabacum cv Xanthi). Here, we investigate the signaling events that mediate NO production, and analyze NO signaling activities in the cryptogein transduction pathway. Using flow cytometry and spectrofluorometry, we observed that cryptogein-induced NO production in tobacco cell suspensions is sensitive to nitric oxide synthase inhibitors and may be catalyzed by variant P, a recently identified pathogen-inducible plant nitric oxide synthase. NO synthesis is tightly regulated by a signaling cascade involving Ca2+ influx and phosphorylation events. Using tobacco cells constitutively expressing the Ca2+ reporter apoaequorin in the cytosol, we have shown that NO participates in the cryptogein-mediated elevation of cytosolic free Ca2+ through the mobilization of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. The NO donor diethylamine NONOate promoted an increase in cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration, which was sensitive to intracellular Ca2+ channel inhibitors. Moreover, NO appears to be involved in the pathway(s) leading to the accumulation of transcripts encoding the heat shock protein TLHS-1, the ethylene-forming enzyme cEFE-26, and cell death. In contrast, NO does not act upstream of the elicitor-induced activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase, the opening of anion channels, nor expression of GST, LOX-1, PAL, and PR-3 genes. Collectively, our data indicate that NO is intimately involved in the signal transduction processes leading to cryptogein-induced defense responses.
Plasma Membrane Depolarization Induced by Abscisic Acid in Arabidopsis Suspension Cells Involves Reduction of Proton Pumping in Addition to Anion Channel Activation, Which Are Both Ca2+ Dependent
Authors: Brault Mathias , Amiar Zahia , Pennarun Anne-Marie , Monestiez Michèle , Zhang Zongshen , Cornel Daniel , Dellis Olivier , Knight Heather , Bouteau François , Rona Jean-Pierre
Published: May 2004

In Arabidopsis suspension cells a rapid plasma membrane depolarization is triggered by abscisic acid (ABA). Activation of anion channels was shown to be a component leading to this ABA-induced plasma membrane depolarization. Using experiments employing combined voltage clamping, continuous measurement of extracellular pH, we examined whether plasma membrane H+-ATPases could also be involved in the depolarization. We found that ABA causes simultaneously cell depolarization and medium alkalinization, the second effect being abolished when ABA is added in the presence of H+ pump inhibitors. Inhibition of the proton pump by ABA is thus a second component leading to the plasma membrane depolarization. The ABA-induced depolarization is therefore the result of two different processes: activation of anion channels and inhibition of H+-ATPases. These two processes are independent because impairing one did not suppress the depolarization. Both processes are however dependent on the [Ca2+]cyt increase induced by ABA since increase in [Ca2+]cyt enhanced anion channels and impaired H+-ATPases.
Gene-Specific Involvement of β-Oxidation in Wound-Activated Responses in Arabidopsis
Authors: Castillo M. Cruz , Martínez Cristina , Buchala Antony , Métraux Jean-Pierre , León José
Published: May 2004

The coordinated induced expression of β-oxidation genes is essential to provide the energy supply for germination and postgerminative development. However, very little is known about other functions of β-oxidation in nonreserve organs. We have identified a gene-specific pattern of induced β-oxidation gene expression in wounded leaves of Arabidopsis. Mechanical damage triggered the local and systemic induction of only ACX1 among acyl-coenzyme A oxidase (ACX) genes, and KAT2/PED1 among 3-ketoacyl-coenzyme A thiolase (KAT) genes in Arabidopsis. In turn, wounding induced KAT5/PKT2 only systemically. Although most of the β-oxidation genes were activated by wound-related factors such as dehydration and abscisic acid, jasmonic acid (JA) induced only ACX1 and KAT5. Reduced expression of ACX1 or KAT2 genes, in transgenic plants expressing their corresponding mRNAs in antisense orientation, correlated with defective wound-activated synthesis of JA and with reduced expression of JA-responsive genes. Induced expression of JA-responsive genes by exogenous application of JA was unaffected in those transgenic plants, suggesting that ACX1 and KAT2 play a major role in driving wound-activated responses by participating in the biosynthesis of JA in wounded Arabidopsis plants.
High-Throughput Fluorescent Tagging of Full-Length Arabidopsis Gene Products in Planta
Authors: Tian Guo-Wei , Mohanty Amitabh , Chary S. Narasimha , Li Shijun , Paap Brigitte , Drakakaki Georgia , Kopec Charles D. , Li Jianxiong , Ehrhardt David , Jackson David , Rhee Seung Y. , Raikhel Natasha V. , Citovsky Vitaly
Published: May 2004

We developed a high-throughput methodology, termed fluorescent tagging of full-length proteins (FTFLP), to analyze expression patterns and subcellular localization of Arabidopsis gene products in planta. Determination of these parameters is a logical first step in functional characterization of the approximately one-third of all known Arabidopsis genes that encode novel proteins of unknown function. Our FTFLP-based approach offers two significant advantages: first, it produces internally-tagged full-length proteins that are likely to exhibit native intracellular localization, and second, it yields information about the tissue specificity of gene expression by the use of native promoters. To demonstrate how FTFLP may be used for characterization of the Arabidopsis proteome, we tagged a series of known proteins with diverse subcellular targeting patterns as well as several proteins with unknown function and unassigned subcellular localization.
Nitrogen Supply Influences Herbivore-Induced Direct and Indirect Defenses and Transcriptional Responses in Nicotiana attenuata
Authors: Lou Yonggen , Baldwin Ian T.
Published: May 2004

Although nitrogen (N) availability is known to alter constitutive resistance against herbivores, its influence on herbivore-induced responses, including signaling pathways, transcriptional signatures, and the subsequently elicited chemical defenses is poorly understood. We used the native tobacco, Nicotiana attenuata, which germinates in the postfire environment and copes with large changes in soil N during postfire succession, to compare a suite of Manduca sexta- and elicitor-induced responses in plants grown under high- and low-N (LN) supply rates. LN supply decreased relative growth rates and biomass by 35% at 40 d compared to high-N plants; furthermore, it also attenuated (by 39 and 60%) the elicitor-induced jasmonate and salicylate bursts, two N-intensive direct defenses (nicotine and trypsin proteinase inhibitors, albeit by different mechanisms), and carbon-containing nonvolatile defenses (rutin, chlorogenic acid, and diterpene glycosides), but did not affect the induced release of volatiles (cis-α-bergamotene and germacrene A), which function as indirect defenses. M. sexta and methyl jasmonate-induced transcriptional responses measured with a microarray enriched in herbivore-induced genes were also substantially reduced in plants grown under LN supply rates. In M. sexta-attacked LN plants, only 36 (45%) up-regulated and 46 (58%) down-regulated genes showed the same regulation as those in attacked high-N plants. However, transcriptional responses frequently directly countered the observed metabolic changes. Changes in a leaf's sensitivity to elicitation, an attacked leaf's waning ability to export oxylipin wound signals, and/or resource limitations in LN plants can account for the observed results, underscoring the conclusion that defense activation is a resource-intensive response.
Molecular Aspects of Plant Adaptation to Life in the Chernobyl Zone
Authors: Kovalchuk Igor , Abramov Vladimir , Pogribny Igor , Kovalchuk Olga
Published: May 2004

With each passing year since the Chernobyl accident of 1986, more questions arise about the potential for organisms to adapt to radiation exposure. Often this is thought to be attributed to somatic and germline mutation rates in various organisms. We analyzed the adaptability of native Arabidopsis plants collected from areas with different levels of contamination around the Chernobyl nuclear power plant from 1986 to 1992. Notably, progeny of Chernobyl plants resisted higher concentrations of the mutagens Rose Bengal and methyl methane sulfonate. We analyzed the possible molecular mechanisms of their resistance to mutagens and found a more than 10-fold lower frequency of extrachromosomal homologous recombination, significant differences in the expression of radical scavenging (CAT1 and FSD3) and DNA-repair (RAD1 and RAD51-like) genes upon exposure to mutagens (Rose Bengal and x-rays), and a higher level of global genome methylation. This data suggests that adaptation to ionizing radiation is a complex process involving epigenetic regulation of gene expression and genome stabilization that improves plants' resistance to environmental mutagens.
Metabolic Fate of Jasmonates in Tobacco Bright Yellow-2 Cells
Authors: Świątek Agnieszka , Dongen Walter Van , Esmans Eddy L. , Onckelen Harry Van
Published: May 2004

Jasmonic acid and methyl jasmonate play an essential role in plant defense responses and pollen development. Their levels are temporarily and spatially controlled in plant tissue. However, whereas jasmonate biosynthesis is well studied, metabolic pathways downstream of jasmonic acid are less understood. We studied the uptake and metabolism of jasmonic acid and methyl jasmonate in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) Bright Yellow-2 suspension culture. We found that upon uptake, jasmonic acid was metabolized to its Glc and gentiobiose esters, and hydroxylation at C-11 or C-12 occurred. Free hydroxylated jasmonates were the preferential fraction of the culture medium. Upon hydrolysis of methyl jasmonate to jasmonic acid, a similar set of conversions occurs. In contrast to jasmonic acid, none of its derivatives interfere with the G2/M transition in synchronized tobacco Bright Yellow-2 cells.
Crop Improvement through Modification of the Plant's Own Genome
Authors: Rommens Caius M. , Humara Jaime M. , Ye Jingsong , Yan Hua , Richael Craig , Zhang Lynda , Perry Rachel , Swords Kathleen
Published: May 2004

Plant genetic engineering has, until now, relied on the incorporation of foreign DNA into plant genomes. Public concern about the extent to which transgenic crops differ from their traditionally bred counterparts has resulted in molecular strategies and gene choices that limit, but not eliminate, the introduction of foreign DNA. Here, we demonstrate that a plant-derived (P-) DNA fragment can be used to replace the universally employed Agrobacterium transfer (T-) DNA. Marker-free P-DNAs are transferred to plant cell nuclei together with conventional T-DNAs carrying a selectable marker gene. By subsequently linking a positive selection for temporary marker gene expression to a negative selection against marker gene integration, 29% of derived regeneration events contain P-DNA insertions but lack any copies of the T-DNA. Further refinements are accomplished by employing Ω-mutated virD2 and isopentenyl transferase cytokinin genes to impair T-DNA integration and select against backbone integration, respectively. The presented methods are used to produce hundreds of marker-free and backbone-free potato (Solanum tuberosum) plants displaying reduced expression of a tuber-specific polyphenol oxidase gene in potato. The modified plants represent the first example of genetically engineered plants that only contain native DNA.
The Role of the Jasmonate Response in Plant Susceptibility to Diverse Pathogens with a Range of Lifestyles
Authors: Thaler Jennifer S. , Owen Blythe , Higgins Verna J.
Published: May 2004

Plants defend themselves against attack from insects and pathogens with various resistance strategies. The jasmonate and salicylate signaling pathways are two induced responses that protect plants against these attackers. Knowledge of the range of organisms that are affected by each response is important for understanding how plants coordinate their defenses against multiple attackers and the generality of effect of different resistance mechanisms. The jasmonate response is known to protect plants against a wide range of insect herbivores; in this study, we examined the role of the jasmonate response in susceptibility to eight pathogens with diverse lifestyles in the laboratory and field. Recent biochemical models suggest that the lifestyle of the pathogen (necrotroph versus biotroph) should predict whether the jasmonate response will be involved in resistance. We tested this by examining the susceptibility of wild-type (cv Castlemart with no known genes for resistance to the pathogens used) and jasmonate-deficient mutant tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) plants (def1) and by employing rescue treatments of the mutant. Plant susceptibility to five of the eight pathogens we examined was reduced by the jasmonate response, including two bacteria (Pseudomonas syringae and Xanthomonas campestris), two fungi (Verticillium dahliae and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici), and an oomycete (Phytophthora infestans). Susceptibility to three fungi was unaffected (Cladosporium fulvum, Oidium neolycopersici, and Septoria lycopersici). Our results indicate that the jasmonate response reduces damage by a wide range of pathogens from different lifestyles, a result that contrasts with the emerging picture of diseases on Arabidopsis. Thus, the generality of jasmonate-based resistance of tomato challenges the view that ecologically distinct plant parasites are resisted via different mechanisms.
Chemical and biological methods for the identification of
irradiated foodstuffs
Authors: Rahman R. , Haque A.K.M.M. , Sumar S.
Published: May 2004

Irradiating food can reduce the incidence of food borne diseases
and extend its shelf life. Provides a summary of the different methods
of irradiating food and their effects.
Health and dietary fibre
Authors: Ahmad John I.
Published: May 2004

Posits that fibre is an essential constituent of the daily diet.
Outlines the types of dietary fibre and summarizes some common diseases
associated with the lack of fibre in the human diet.
Chemistry in the kitchen: the chemistry of flesh foods III
Authors: Bayliss Peter
Published: May 2004

When self selecting meat, consumers rank the colour of fresh meat
as being the most important criterion in their purchase decision because
it indicates freshness, while the most desirable eating quality of meat,
after texture, is the cooked flavour. Details the well‐understood
chemistry in relation to meat colour and reviews the less
well‐understood chemistry of cooked meat flavour.
How much are we spending and what are we consuming when we eat out?
Authors: Hughes Joyce
Published: May 2004

Presents the findings of the eating out extension of the National Food Survey 1994. Finds that on average 28 per cent of the total household food and drink expenditure is spent outside the home. Discusses the trends in food type, amount spent, facilities used and nutritional contradiction in relation to household composition, age groups, sex, income and region of the country.
Alpha and Omega
Authors: Pamenter Frederick
Published: May 2004

While both recruiting and termination are crucial human resource
management activities, professionals in the field have preferred to
focus on other aspects of employment. Despite tremendous changes
undergone by business and society over the past few decades,
terminations are still handled in the same way as they were 20 years
ago. The implications of a termination have been paid little heed.
However, these events can have a substantial negative impact on the
effectiveness of an organization. Examines five aspects of a
termination: (1) Root causes – the events that led to the termination.
(2) The formal and informal network context of the position. (3)
Essential characteristics of the position should be examined before a
replacement is appointed. (4) Management style of the incumbent and the
way a replacement might fit the organization′s culture. (5) Roles played
by department members, and how to ensure that they continue to be
carried out. Problems are identified that arise when the realities of
today′s environment are ignored. Suggests concrete actions that can and
should be taken to prevent costly consequences to the organization.
ABB focus on “lean robotization”
Authors: Hollingum Jack
Published: May 2004

Outlines ABB Robotics new manufacturing philosophy of “lean
robotization” based on early partnership between customer and supplier
and a detailed knowledge of the customers application requirements. Examines
two new ABB robots, suitable for a wide variety of functions, and operated by
a new controller which uses a windows‐style user interface to simplify
programming and process tuning. Describes some of the new features of the
control which are claimed to bring major benefits in productivity and
quality.
Automation in construction software systems lay the foundations
Authors: Richards Mervyn
Published: May 2004

Considers that computer models of construction projects are required as
a precursor to automation of the construction process. Examines the problem
of building computer models for use in the construction industry that contain
all the information required for full co‐ordination of the design
activity. The uniqueness of each building project and the lack of standard
“library” parts adds considerably to the task of creating a
realistic 3D model. Also the inevitable minor deviations that would occur
during the construction process require that the model be corrected as work
proceeds.
Robots for the meat industry
Authors: Wadie Iain , Maddock Neil , Purnell Graham , Khodabandehloo Koorosh , Crooks Alan , Shacklock Andy , West Dave
Published: May 2004

Discusses research carried out by the Advanced Manufacturing and
Automation Research Centre [AMARC], University of Bristol into the
automation of two areas of meat production, the butchery of half carcasses
into main joints and the evisceration of whole carcasses. Describes how the
robotic butchery process requires sensing, determination of cut‐paths
and trajectories for the robot, mechanical cutting using appropriate tools
and the ability to transport, manipulate and hold each carcass during cutting
and how each of these areas bas been integrated into a practical system. Also
describes the system developed for robotic evisceration. Concludes that this
research work has led to two industrial demonstrator systems for processing
meat carcasses which have had encouraging response from potential
customers.
Quick change acts for robotic systems
Authors: Hollingum Jack
Published: May 2004

Report from a one day colloquium, organised by the Robotics Professional
Group of the Institution of Electrical Engineers in association with the
British Robot Association and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers on the
20th October. The theme was the fast reconfiguration of robotic and
automation resources.
Robot lends a hand in a Swedish library
Authors: Hansson Roland
Published: May 2004

Discusses the installation of a robotized book handling system in a
public library in Sweden. A standard industrial robot and controller have
been chosen with special grippers which can handle any size/type of book
without damaging them. Describes how the library users place books on a
conveyor, where an optosensor scans the barcode on each book and transmits
the information to the library’s computer. Describes the
six‐axis robot, the safety features, the interactive programming and
the self‐diagnostic functions.
A critical look at robot vision
Authors: Braggins Don
Published: May 2004

Discusses the background of robot vision systems and examines why
vision‐guided motion for robots hasn’t lived up to the early
promise. Outlines the different types of robot vision available and
considers the limitation of “computer vision” in most commercial
applications. Looks at the difficulties of making effective use of
information from a two‐dimensional vision system to guide a robot
working in a 3‐dimensional environment and at some of the possible
solutions. Discusses future developments and concludes that in the short
term, it is probably the opening up of programming to a larger group of
potential users, with the facility of graphic user interface, which will have
the greatest impact on the uptake of vision for robots.
Vauxhall invests in robots at luton
Authors: Kochan Anna
Published: May 2004

418 robots have been installed at Vauxhall Motors’ plant in Luton
as part of a £136 million refurbishment project to prepare the factory
for the launch of the new Vectra. The bulk of the robots are employed in the
body‐in‐white area, with 50 per cent performing handling
operations and the rest for spot welding, stud welding and the application of
adhesives. Describes some of the more innovative robotic tasks including the
laser welding of the inner reinforcement panels to the bonnet [with 20
stitch welds performed in 30 second] and the fitting of windscreens and
windows.
This robot’s gone fishing
Authors: Buckingham Rob , Davey CBE Peter
Published: May 2004

Examines Robofish, a prototype high speed, vision guided robot with an
end‐effector that is able to grasp slippery fish and accurately place
them within a deheading machine. Describes the vision system, the two
fingered gripper and the robot which has two rotating arms. Outlines the
software for the robot and gives results of initial trials. Concludes that
with careful design, a fish can be grasped reliably and with the necessary
accuracy in order to achieve yield improvements on fish deheading exceeding 1
per cent.
Flexible and automated workholding systems
Authors: Shirinzadeh Bijan
Published: May 2004

Examines research work into the design and development of
low‐to‐medium volume production systems. Outlines the aim to
design a production unit capable of manufacturing a family of products, with
a minimum amount of manual intervention. Investigates the use of flexible
fixturing strategies using sensor‐based assembly techniques, and the
concept of using modular fixture kits to locate and constrain the workpiece,
including programmable conformable clamps. Looks at various assembly
techniques and commercially available systems. Concludes that a number of
novel assembly systems have been proposed and developed in the laboratory but
that further research is needed to develop more advanced fixture design,
task‐planning and analysis systems.
Robotics education and training: a strategy for development
Authors: Robinson Paul
Published: May 2004

Examines the importance of training engineers, particularly in the field of robotics. Discusses the paucity of courses at universities and compares this with the greater number of courses at technical colleges. Explains factors which inhibit the development of relevant courses; discusses specific course aims, recent developments, and practical issues.
University education in robotics and advanced automation: a UK perspective
Authors: Taylor P.M.
Published: May 2004

Examines the development of courses in robotics and advanced automation at UK universities and describes the relationship between industry, research and the courses. Looks in detail at undergraduate courses offered by the universities of Hull, Bristol, Plymouth and Leeds Metropolitan university. Describes the pioneering postgraduate course at Cranfield University. States that the collaboration between these universities and industry and the support this collaboration provides has been essential for the viability of the courses. Concludes that the future is bright for these courses so long as they are well presented to potential students and the industrial sector remains committed.
Engineering education in Germany
Authors: Kennedy Suzanne
Published: May 2004

Compares the differences between UK/US and German further education in engineering and highlights their distinctive characteristics. Describes the two methods of studying engineering in Germany (universities and Fachhochschulen). Briefly covers the aims of both types of institution and the job prospects for graduates from each.
Learning by sharing: robots in school and colleges
Authors: Widdowson John
Published: May 2004

Discusses the difficulties of attracting students to engineering courses at universities and colleges. Examines the case of one college in mid‐Anglia which decided that, to attract more students to its courses, more sophisticated technology should be made available in schools; describes the basics of a project to share robots between certain schools. Reviews the benefits achieved so far and the aims for the future (i.e. closer links with industry). Concludes that a good start has been made, but further promotion of engineering is needed.
Training within and without
Authors: Anderson Paul
Published: May 2004

Examines the work and training programmes of Dürr, a worldwide supplier of paint plants to the automotive industry. Describes how training is organized at the Dürr Technical Centre in Germany and how both off‐the‐job and on‐site training programmes can be developed. Explains that Dürr is working towards developing its own NVQs.
Hanover – robots under control
Authors: Kochan Anna
Published: May 2004

Reports on a number of new robotic products launched at the industrial fair in Hanover 1996. Details various robotic controllers and their characteristics used by, for example, Kuka, Reis, Fanuc, Cloos.
Robots at the core of foundry automation
Authors: Rooks Brian W.
Published: May 2004

Foundries have made massive investments in computerized casting systems. Suggests that Cosworth Castings, Worcester, and VAW West Yorkshire Foundry, Leeds, are setting new
standards in foundry automation.
Designing for human‐robot symbiosis
Authors: Wilkes D.M. , Alford A. , Cambron M.E. , Rogers T.E. , Peters R.A. , Kawamura K.
Published: May 2004

For the past ten years, the Intelligent Robotics Laboratory (IRL) at Vanderbilt University has been developing service robots that interact naturally, closely and safely with human beings. Two main issues for research have arisen from this prior work. The first is how to achieve a high level of interaction between the human and robot. The result has been the philosophy of human directed local autonomy (HuDL), a guiding principle for research, design, and implementation of service robots. The human‐robot relationship we seek to achieve is symbiotic in the sense that both the human and the robot work together to achieve goals, for example as aids to the elderly or disabled. The second issue is the general problem of system integration, with a specific focus on integrating humans into the service robotic system. This issue has led to the development of the Intelligent Machine Architecture (IMA), a novel software architecture specifically designed to simplify the integration of the many diverse algorithms, sensors, and actuators necessary for intelligent interactive service robots.
The strategic orientation of marketing information systems – an empirical study
Authors: Xu Xianzhong Mark
Published: May 2004

Previous research suggests that most of the applications of marketing information systems (MkIS) appear to support marketing routine function rather than marketing strategic function. By conducting a survey of 55 UK marketing managers in computer and financial industries, this study examines the current practice of the strategic function of marketing, and the application of information systems in supporting the strategic function. Reveals that the strategic function of marketing has been perceived important by marketing managers, and many companies perform some of the strategic functions, such as market segmentation/targeting, competition and market analysis. Yet, the application of MkIS does not keep abreast with the current practice of marketing strategic function. Suggests that a knowledge‐enriched, strategic oriented MkIS with an emphasis on environmental scanning, competition mapping, market positioning, and SWOT analysis needs to be developed through advanced computing technology.
Managing in an Information Highway Age: Critical Issues
Authors: Lin Binshan
Published: May 2004

The information highway is a management issue with the same importance as information technology applications and information technology management. Deals with some critical issues that arise in the evolution of an information highway age and its alignment with the evolving management perspectives and strategies.
Technology Readiness as a Business Strategy
Authors: Bahouth Saba B.
Published: May 2004

Planning technology development and making use of available technologies
are an integral part of a successful strategic business plan. Businesses
have neglected their role in training and updating their potential
managers in the area of technology management. Universities, in general,
have not yet integrated technology awareness and forecasting with
management training. Deals with the necessity of exposing future
managers to the four areas of technology planning and forecasting,
technology project management, the impact of technologies on the social
system, as well as the impact of technologies on different world
economies.
Integrating the Internet into the Business Environment
Authors: Granger Mary J. , Schroeder David L.
Published: May 2004

An estimated 30 million people make use of the Internet not only for
electronic mail (e‐mail), but also to peruse databases, view photographs
and videos and find travel information and weather reports. Innovative
data systems managers can offer business solutions by integrating the
capabilities of the Internet into their business environment. The
Internet offers vast communication resources to enhance product
development and system support. Offers an introduction to the
communication resources of the Internet and provides several specific
examples of business solutions in the areas of e‐mail communications,
business applications software support, system design and databases. An
awareness of these global solutions by today′s managers may stimulate an
increased appreciation of the power of electronic communications and an
encouragement of co‐operative work, using electronic media.
Automated systems and reliability
Authors: Beheshti Hooshang M. , Worley Joel K.
Published: May 2004

The computer is probably the single greatest innovation of the
twentieth century. However, with all their awe‐inspiring capabilities,
computers create a new set of problems. Seeks to explore the problems of
the automation and computer age. Begins by highlighting numerous
corporate woes and failures. Analyses the reasons for the problems and
failures and finally suggests possible solutions.
Managing the forecasting function
Authors: Sanders Nada R.
Published: May 2004

The usage of formal statistical forecasting procedures has been
shown in numerous studies to improve forecast accuracy and,
consequently, organizational performance. However, the process of
implementing and managing this technology can run into many stumbling
blocks. Identifies six major organizational problems when implementing
and developing formal statistical forecasting procedures. Provides
solution strategies to these problems and discusses specific managerial
implications. This information is important to managers in order to gain
the greatest benefit from the forecasting function.
Why managers use executive support systems:
Authors: Horn Nord Jeretta , Daryl Nord G.
Published: May 2004

Software technology designed to provide managers with the
capability to access internal and external information that is relevant
to decision making and other managerial responsibilities is referred to
as executive support systems. Reports the findings of a study conducted
among managers in major US corporations regarding the use of executive
support systems including specific products, features, and the strategic
impact of using this technology. In addition, interviews were conducted
among executive support systems commercial software vendors and data
obtained from these interviews are presented in tabular form. Finally,
discusses the future of the utilization of executive support systems for
strategic advantage.
Expert systems implementation:
Authors: Byrd Terry Anthony
Published: May 2004

Reports on the comments of knowledge engineers (KEs) on the
implementation of expert systems (ES) in their organizations. Describes
telephone interviews with 28 KEs who had developed ES for end‐users of
all kinds from experts to novices. The questions in the interview
focused on the types of expert systems being developed, the type of
end‐users, the complexity of the system, the scope of the system, and
the benefits the organization gained as a result of the ES
implementation. Quotes and summarizes responses from the KEs. Gives some
suggestions for practitioners as lessons to be learned from the KEs′
experiences.
Evaluating research on electronic surveillance: a guide for managers of information technology
Authors: Kidwell Roland E. , Achey Kidwell Linda
Published: May 2004

The growth of information technology as a means of electronic surveillance has led to a great deal of research which managers need to evaluate and apply to the workplace. To aid this process, managers should understand the perspectives that guide research agendas. The assumptions of the investigators influence what questions are asked about electronic surveillance, how inquiry is conducted, and how results are interpreted. Summarizes research that employs different organizational perspectives in studying electronic surveillance, and attempts to aid managers in applying this research on the job.
Innovation ‐ Japanese style
Authors: Herbig Paul A. , Palumbo Frederick A.
Published: May 2004

Within the last two decades, the Japanese economic machine has developed into the leading economy in the world on a per capita income basis and second only to the USA in GNP. Contends that Japan has virtually conquered the US consumer electronics, semiconductor, and machine tool markets and, except for quotas, would have done the same for the automotive segment. Various explanations are offered for Japan’s success and some say it is because of the Japanese ability to listen to and serve their customers by delivering quality merchandise at a low price, while others point to Japanese companies’ ability to innovate. Asks how truly innovative are the Japanese. In what ways do they struggle and prosper innovatively? Examines the notion of “innovation” and how it is accomplished in Japan; explores the positives and negatives of their innovative patterns; and discusses implications for the US and international competition.
Interlending and document supply: a review of recent literature
– XXVIII
Authors: Gould Sara
Published: May 2004

Reviews the recent literature in electronic document delivery and
“the electronic library”. Describes current trials of
various retrieval systems of electronic journal and textbook projects,
and examines some of the costs and benefits experienced by institutions
around the world, focusing in particular on developments in Germany.
Finds copyright on electronic delivery services to be a problem and
briefly addresses patenting and trademarks. Also assesses the idea of
charges for interlibrary transactions. Finally, reviews the state of the
Universal Availability of Publications programme to date, reporting on
resource sharing with Africa and the Caribbean.
Interlending and document supply: a review of recent literature ‐ XXIX
Authors: Gould Sara
Published: May 2004

Reviews current literature relevant to interlending and document supply. Covers guides, directories and standards; surveys; statistics; OCLC; ILL management systems; online searching systems; Red Sage; access versus holdings; copyright; availability of material; and the end‐user. Gives a brief résumé of publications under each of the categories.
Co‐operation: the triumph of hope over experience?
Authors: Line Maurice B.
Published: May 2004

Library co‐operation has always been assumed to be a good thing, but much thinking has focused on the means of co‐operation rather than on the ends that co‐operation is intended to serve, neglecting to fully explore other means of attaining those ends. Co‐operative schemes have rarely been subjected to rigorous cost‐effectiveness analysis; most have been national or sub‐national rather than international; and some areas where co‐operation could be useful have received little attention. Co‐operation on a goodwill basis is already giving way to commercial arrangements between libraries as well as with private suppliers. The growth in the number of private providers of various services, together with the ability of information technology to transcend geographical boundaries, are among factors that make a radical reappraisal of co‐operation desirable.
Product deletion: a financial services perspective
Authors: Harness David R. , Mackay Stephen
Published: May 2004

Discusses the options available to financial service companies to accomplish product removal or elimination. Reports the findings of a two year study into the practices and processes of financial service sector product elimination activity. Outlines why product elimination is relevant to product management and indicates the extent to which previously reported elimination theory can embrace service sector‐specific elimination issues. Presents the withdrawal options for the financial services sector and discusses their usage. Finally, gives the implications that these strategies have for current product management theory.
Customer needs and front‐office technology adoption
Authors: Filotto Umberto , Musile Tanzi Paola , Saita Francesco
Published: May 2004

Based on a wide survey of over 1,500 Italian customers, analyses both payment services and sales and private banking areas. In the former, human contact attributes of service prove to be overemphasized when customer satisfaction is observed. In the latter, technology seems extremely important in helping bank branch officers decide which new services to offer to which customers. In both sections customers’ clusters are identified according to the importance of different service attributes; subsequently, they are described in terms of demographic, behavioural and psychographic characteristics. Technology‐oriented unsatisfied customers seem to belong to most segments. This calls for a major shift in the approach to delivery channels the majority of Italian banks are still adopting.
Marketing derivatives: a question of trust
Authors: Sheedy Elizabeth
Published: May 2004

In 1994/95 the derivatives industry was rocked by a series of high‐profile derivatives disasters. For example, litigation between Procter & Gamble and Bankers Trust highlighted a troubled relationship between banks and corporate clients. Examines the success of relationship marketing in the derivatives industry in light of these events. Participants in the derivatives industry in Sydney and Hong Kong are interviewed to determine whether the watershed cases of 1994/95 caused, or were indicative of, a more widespread deterioration in relationships. However, the expected benefits of relationship banking have remained largely unrealized. Concludes that further work is needed to overcome the significant impediments to successful implementation of relationship banking.
Management of market quality for correspondent banking products
Authors: Yun Chang Zeph , Chan Joanne , Leng Leck Siew
Published: May 2004

In general, customers expect banks to provide the basic banking services. They also expect different levels of services to maximize the value they can derive from the banks. Hence, customers evaluate competing offers in terms of the totality of the product and service as well as the relationship that exists between themselves and the bank. To gain marketing advantage, banks have to exceed customers’ expectations rather than merely meet the bare minimum. To succeed, a bank must distinguish itself from its competitors not just in the quality of the core product but also in how it manages the “service surround”. Every interaction with a customer provides an opportunity to be “unique” and to “go beyond the call of duty”. Presents the design and management of the core correspondent banking products and the “services surround” in terms of market quality.
Strategic dimensions of correspondent banking
Authors: Naughton Tony , Soon‐Lim Chan Leslie
Published: May 2004

Correspondent banking, the provision of services by one bank to another, has been a neglected area of academic research, and literature lacks a comprehensive theoretical framework to describe correspondent relationships. The bulk of previous studies have been conducted in the USA, where the regulatory environment places particular requirements on correspondent banking relationships that are difficult to generalise to countries such as Australia. This paper explores two theoretical frameworks for correspondent banking. The first sees correspondent banking in a financial contracting cost‐reduction framework, in line with theoretical models of financial intermediation. The second framework is based on Dunning’s (1979) eclectic theory of international investment. Correspondent banking is viewed as a strategic tool to be used when a banking firm does not at present possess a full range of ownership‐specific, locational and internalisation advantages. The paper reviews the traditional and modern functions of correspondent banking and the structural arrangements that can be put in place to organise these activities. Case studies of two banks, operating in Australia, are used to illustrate the different strategic and structural approaches that can be utilised in respect of correspondent banking.