bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
sae is essential for expression of the staphylococcal adhesins Eap and Emp
Authors: Harraghy Niamh , Kormanec Jan , Wolz Christiane , Homerova Dagmar , Goerke Christiane , Ohlsen Knut , Qazi Saara , Hill Philip , Herrmann Mathias
Published: June 2005

Eap and Emp are two Staphylococcus aureus adhesins initially described as extracellular matrix binding proteins. Eap has since emerged as being important in adherence to and invasion of eukaryotic cells, as well as being described as an immunomodulator and virulence factor in chronic infections. This paper describes the mapping of the transcription start point of the eap and emp promoters. Moreover, using reporter-gene assays and real-time PCR in defined regulatory mutants, environmental conditions and global regulators affecting expression of eap and emp were investigated. Marked differences were found in expression of eap and emp between strain Newman and the 8325 derivatives SH1000 and 8325-4. Moreover, both genes were repressed in the presence of glucose. Analysis of expression of both genes in various regulatory mutants revealed that sarA and agr were involved in their regulation, but the data suggested that there were additional regulators of both genes. In a sae mutant, expression of both genes was severely repressed. sae expression was also reduced in the presence of glucose, suggesting that repression of eap and emp in glucose-containing medium may, in part, be a consequence of a decrease in expression of sae.
Acquisition of a stable mutation in metY allows efficient initiation from an amber codon in Escherichia coli
Authors: Das Gautam , Dineshkumar T. K. , Thanedar Swapna , Varshney Umesh
Published: June 2005

Escherichia colistrains harbouring elongator tRNAs that insert amino acids in response to a termination codon during elongation have been generated for various applications. Additionally, it was shown that expression of an initiator tRNA containing a CUA anticodon from a multicopy plasmid inE. coliresulted in initiation from an amber codon. Even though the initiation-based system remedies toxicity-related drawbacks, its usefulness has remained limited for want of a strain with a chromosomally encoded initiator tRNA ‘suppressor’.E. coliK strains possess four initiator tRNA genes: themetZ,metWandmetVgenes, located at a single locus, encode tRNA1fMet, and a distantly locatedmetYgene encodes a variant, tRNA2fMet. In this study, a stable strain ofE. coliK-12 that affords efficient initiation from an amber initiation codon was isolated. Genetic analysis revealed that themetYgene in this strain acquired mutations to encode tRNA2fMetwith a CUA anticodon (a U35A36 mutation). The acquisition of the mutations depended on the presence of a plasmid-borne copy of the mutantmetYandrecA+host background. The mutations were observed when the plasmid-borne gene encoded tRNA2fMet(U35A36) with additional changes in the acceptor stem (G72; G72G73) but not in the anticodon stem (U29C30A31/U35A36/ψ39G40A41). The usefulness of this strain, and a possible role for multiple tRNA1fMetgenes inE. coliin safeguarding their intactness, are discussed.
Altered expression profile of mycobacterial surface glycopeptidolipids following treatment with the antifungal azole inhibitors econazole and clotrimazole
Authors: Burguière Adeline , Hitchen Paul G. , Dover Lynn G. , Dell Anne , Besra Gurdyal S.
Published: June 2005

The azole antifungal drugs econazole and clotrimazole are known cytochrome P450 enzyme inhibitors. This study shows that these drugs are potent inhibitors of mycobacterial growth and are more effective againstMycobacterium smegmatisthan isoniazid and ethionamide, two established anti-mycobacterial drugs. Several non-tuberculous mycobacteria, including the pathogenic members of theMycobacterium avium–intracellularecomplex (MAC) and the fast-growing saprophytic organismM. smegmatis, produce an array of serovar-specific (ss) and non-serovar-specific (ns) glycopeptidolipids (GPLs). GPL biosynthesis has been investigated for several years but has still not been fully elucidated. The authors demonstrate here that econazole and clotrimazole inhibit GPL biosynthesis inM. smegmatis. In particular, clotrimazole inhibits all four types of nsGPLs found inM. smegmatis, suggesting an early and common target within their biosynthetic pathway. Altogether, the data suggest that an azole-specific target, most likely a cytochrome P450, may be involved in the hydroxylation of theN-acyl chain in GPL biosynthesis. Azole antifungal drugs and potential derivatives could represent an interesting new range of anti-mycobacterial drugs, especially against opportunistic human pathogens including MAC,M. scrofulaceum,M. peregrinum,M. chelonaeandM. abscessus.
Oral immunization with a dam mutant of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis protects against plague
Authors: Taylor Victoria L. , Titball Richard W. , Oyston Petra C. F.
Published: June 2005

Inactivation of the gene encoding DNA adenine methylase (dam) has been shown to attenuate some pathogens such asSalmonella entericaserovar Typhimurium and is a lethal mutation in others such asYersinia pseudotuberculosisstrain YPIII. In this study thedammethylase gene inYersinia pseudotuberculosisstrain IP32953 was inactivated. Unlike the wild-type, DNA isolated from the mutant could be digested withMboI, which is consistent with an altered pattern of DNA methylation. The mutant was sensitive to bile salts but not to 2-aminopurine. The effect ofdaminactivation on gene expression was examined using a DNA microarray. In BALB/c mice inoculated orally or intravenously with thedammutant, the median lethal dose (MLD) was at least 106-fold higher than the MLD of the wild-type. BALB/c mice inoculated with the mutant were protected against a subcutaneous challenge with 100 MLDs ofYersinia pestisstrain GB and an intravenous challenge with 300 MLDs ofY. pseudotuberculosisIP32953.
Transcriptional takeover by σ appropriation: remodelling of the σ 70 subunit of Escherichia coli RNA polymerase by the bacteriophage T4 activator MotA and co-activator AsiA
Authors: Hinton Deborah M. , Pande Suchira , Wais Neelowfar , Johnson Xanthia B. , Vuthoori Madhavi , Makela Anna , Hook-Barnard India
Published: June 2005

Activation of bacteriophage T4 middle promoters, which occurs about 1 min after infection, uses two phage-encoded factors that change the promoter specificity of the host RNA polymerase. These phage factors, the MotA activator and the AsiA co-activator, interact with theσ70specificity subunit ofEscherichia coliRNA polymerase, which normally contacts the −10 and −35 regions of host promoter DNA. Like host promoters, T4 middle promoters have a good match to the canonicalσ70DNA element located in the −10 region. However, instead of theσ70DNA recognition element in the promoter's −35 region, they have a 9 bp sequence (a MotA box) centred at −30, which is bound by MotA. Recent work has begun to provide information about the MotA/AsiA system at a detailed molecular level. Accumulated evidence suggests that the presence of MotA and AsiA reconfigures protein–DNA contacts in the upstream promoter sequences, without significantly affecting the contacts ofσ70with the −10 region. This type of activation, which is called ‘σappropriation’, is fundamentally different from other well-characterized models of prokaryotic activation in which an activator frequently serves to forceσ70to contact a less than ideal −35 DNA element. This review summarizes the interactions of AsiA and MotA withσ70, and discusses how these interactions accomplish the switch to T4 middle promoters by inhibiting the typical contacts of the C-terminal region ofσ70, region 4, with the host −35 DNA element and with other subunits of polymerase.
Consumption of synthetic food colours during festivals in Hyderabad, India
Authors: Rao Pratima , Bhat Ramesh V. , Sudershan R.V. , Prasanna Krishna T.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

In India, there are various religions and cultures. Several festivals are celebrated through the year, and a variety of specific foods are prepared for each of the festivals. The aim was to study the extent of consumption of colours during festivals.

Design/methodology/approach

A household survey was carried out in the urban areas of Hyderabad among individuals in the age groups 1‐5 years, 6‐18 years and >18 years from three socio‐economic groups – high, middle, and low income – from government quarters. The respondents of the study were interviewed using a food frequency questionnaire to elicit information on the intake of colours during festivals. The festivals selected for the study were Sankranthi, Diwali, Holi and Christmas.

Findings

The consumption pattern of various foods among all the subjects of the study during the four festivals indicated that a majority of the subjects (44 per cent) consumed sweetmeats. The intake of tartrazine and sunset yellow was observed to be higher during festivals due to the extensive use of these colours in sweetmeats, savouries and beverages that are most commonly available during festivals. The present investigation showed that there has been a shift in the preferences for foods during festivals (i.e. mainly sweetmeats and the type of colours consumed).

Originality/value

As there was an excessive consumption of yellow colours like tartrazine and sunset yellow and lesser consumption of red colours like ponceau 4R and carmoisine, the Indian government needs to take into consideration such situations when setting maximum permissible limits.
Environmental scanning in Thai food SMEs
Authors: Ngamkroeckjoti Chittipa , Speece Mark , Dimmitt Nicholas J.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Some small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Thai food industry put a lot of effort into keeping up with changes of consumption patterns locally and in the South East Asia region. To see how successfully they are able to create competitive advantage, aims to examine the impact of environmental scanning practices on new product development (NPD) outcomes among SMEs in the Thai food industry. The technology strategy of the company influences how much it uses environmental scanning, and technology turbulence can play a role in exactly how critical is good knowledge of the external environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative research was conducted using semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with food experts and SME owners.

Findings

Results suggest that SMEs that practice environmental scanning are better able to develop appropriate new food products. Technology strategy plays a role in how much scanning they use, with a more proactive technology strategy requiring more extensive scanning. Environmental turbulence, including changes in technology, can cause failure in NPD if scanning does not keep companies aware of the situation.

Originality/value

A simple conceptual model is proposed to show how technology strategy, technological turbulence, and environmental scanning affect NPD performance.
Consumers' willingness to pay for organic food
Authors: Krystallis Athanasios , Chryssohoidis George
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Seeks to provide answers to two questions: is willingness to pay (WTP) for organic products influenced by the same set of factors that affect purchasing of conventional foods? Does WTP for organic products vary according to different food categories?

Design/methodology/approach

Purchasers were approached during their food shopping in retail chains in Athens in July 2003. Sample inclusion is based on real awareness of the term “organic”. The questionnaire included in its first part a number of criteria that influence consumers when buying food. In the second part respondents were asked to indicate if any food products they buy were organic and to state how much more they were willing to pay. Information from the first part was analysed with factor analysis. With the help of t‐value analysis, it was examined whether there is a statistically significant difference per product category between consumers who are willing to pay and consumers who are unwilling to pay in terms of the factors identified.

Findings

Consumers' stated WTP and the type and magnitude of factors that affect it differ according to the organic food category. These factors include food quality and security, trust in the certification, and, for some products, brand name. Organoleptic characteristics, prices and consumers' socio‐demographic profiles do not constitute determinants of organic WTP.

Research limitations/implications

Organic types of some fresh as well as processed food products do not exist in the Greek market. Moreover, the large number of t‐tests conducted might result in Type I error.

Originality/value

Purchasing of organic food follows “basic‐highest frequency”, “basic‐average frequency”, and “non‐basic” discrimination. The most frequently consumed organic products are some basic components of the Greek diet. Only the factors “quality and security” and “trust” play an important role in defining WTP for most organic food categories. Consumers' attitudes towards both organic and PDO/PGI certifications converge towards a perception of high quality food. Approximately 26 percent of the sample exhibited a U‐shaped WTP trend for 14 out of 16 organic food categories in increments from 45 to 120 percent. All the above elements of originality are particularly valuable for organic food firms and policy/decision makers.
Information literacy and the role of national library and information associations
Authors: Joint Nicholas , Wallis Jake
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To investigate the role of national library associations both in promoting information literacy and in advancing the interests of the practitioner library and information worker.

Design/methodology/approach

An opinion piece based on information literacy practice world‐wide and recent debate on the role of national association and professional organisations in the UK.

Findings

The dynamic role of associations for the library and information profession in a variety of countries world‐wide gives an indication of how the profession should use its own national association.

Research limitations/implications

This is purely an expression of opinion about the value of the relationship between national associations for the library and information profession and the promotion of information literacy.

Practical implications

Gives some insight into how a national professional association is uniquely positioned to support professional status and encourage job opportunities by forward‐looking policy formulation and cross‐sectoral leadership, in particular in the area of information literacy.

Originality/value

An attempt to validate at practitioner level the impact and importance of a national association by reference to real practice‐based examples and demonstrably successful international models.
Cyberspace, information literacy and the information society
Authors: Wallis Jake
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To establish that, in the opinion of the author, there is a need for an information literacy skill set for citizens of the modern information society, and that the role of library and information professionals may have to evolve, from intermediaries to facilitators and trainers.

Design/methodology/approach

An opinion piece based on the author's experiences in digital library research, as a citizen of an information society and as a worker in the knowledge economy.

Findings

That citizens of information societies have direct access to a bewildering range of digital information resources. Librarians and information professionals face less demand for their traditional role as intermediaries. Information literacy is defined and described as a vital skill set for citizens of information societies. It is suggested that librarians and information professionals are needed to pass on these skills to citizens at all levels of society for economic, social and personal empowerment.

Research limitations/implications

The paper reflects the perspective of the author – it is not supported by quantitative data (notoriously difficult to collect on information literacy).

Practical implications

Provides suggestions on how the library and information profession can retain their relevance to society in the networked age.

Originality/value

This is the particular viewpoint of the author, with a diverse range of examples cited to back up the thrust of the paper. It describes how information literacy is required to interact effectively with the digital environment on an emotional as well as an intellectual level.
Approaches to information literacy acquisition in Nigeria
Authors: Idiodi Evelyn A.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To set out internationally accepted definitions of information literacy and examine them in the Nigerian context.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes an initially theoretical and expository approach by setting out definitions of information literacy (IL) and contrasting other different but related concepts, such as ICT literacy, before going on to cite documented theory and practice in a variety of countries. After this, comparisons are drawn between such external standards of IL practice and prevalent approaches to information literacy acquisition in Nigeria as documented by authors and as experienced in practice.

Findings

There are important parallels in IL theory and practice between Nigeria and other countries with well‐established IL traditions, but factors such as economic instability, under‐resourcing and computer (ICT) illiteracy inhibit the full development of IL programmes.

Practical implications

The paper outlines clear steps that need to be taken to advance IL standards in Nigeria.

Originality/value

The paper offers insight into the national IL situation in Nigeria, formulates a relevant set of IL statements, and puts Nigerian practice into an international context.
Empowering patients through health information literacy training
Authors: Cullen Rowena
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to outline some new approaches to information literacy instruction for health librarians and other information professionals.

Design/methodology/approach

In the context of the increasing amount of health information on the internet, the paper outlines a changing attitude to health care that is based on shared decision making and informed consent. Health and other information professionals have a responsibility to promote health information literacy among health consumers. This includes mastering the basic principles of teaching and learning, and the evaluation of health information, including the techniques of critical thinking.

Findings

The paper summarises some criteria for evaluating health information sources and applies these to four well‐known health web sites, and concludes that all provide valuable and reliable consumer health information, but that none meets all the criteria advocated.

Practical implications

There is an ongoing need for education of information professionals and health consumers to ensure that the potential benefits of health information on the world wide web are maximised.

Originality/value

The paper offers new information and techniques for information literacy training to health information and other information professionals.
Information literacy for off‐campus graduate cohorts
Authors: Hooks James D. , Corbett Frank
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the practice of information literacy by showing the role that extensive collaboration plays in a graduate off‐campus cohort program.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study of an innovative project that uses a collaborative approach to information literacy embedded into an off‐campus graduate cohort program offered in the field of graduate education.

Findings

In this paper, it is not stated or implied that the traditional library or librarian will be irrelevant to higher education in the twenty‐first century. Nor, however, is it suggested that the collaboration between (for example) librarian and graduate education programs that is necessary to stave off such obsolescence takes place inevitably. It is known that the literature and classroom observations to date clearly demonstrate that existing collaborative efforts between these two entities have been successful in benefiting graduate students. However, this model needs to become more pervasive in practice to take the profession effectively into the twenty‐first century.

Research limitations/implications

This project was limited to one graduate program in the College of Education. However, it does have implications for other graduate programs as well as for undergraduate programs.

Practical implications

The results of this collaborative project indicate techniques and practices by means of which students will improve both information literacy and critical analysis skills.

Originality/value

This paper supports the idea that collaboration between librarians and graduate faculty members is an essential factor in enhancing an information literacy program at the university level.
Information and communication technology (ICT) literacy among the staff of Nigerian university libraries
Authors: Olu Adeyoyin Samuel
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To ascertain the levels of ICT literacy among library staff in a range of Nigerian libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted among the professionals, paraprofessionals and “other” members of staff of 18 Nigerian university libraries.

Findings

Analysis of the data showed that, on a self‐assessment basis, out of about 268 professional librarians, only 87 (approximately 32 per cent) were ICT‐literate, implying that the remaining 181 (approximately 68 per cent) of professional librarians were ICT‐illiterate. Of the 358 paraprofessionals in those libraries, only 28 (approximately 8 per cent) were ICT‐literate, while the vast majority, some 330 (approximately 92 per cent), were ICT‐illiterate. Of the 1,133 “other” staff members in the survey, a minimal 69 (6 per cent) staff were ICT‐literate, while 1,064 (approximately 94 per cent) were ICT‐illiterate.

Research limitations/implications

The questionnaire basis of the investigation gives room for subjective distortions in assessment of levels of literacy; the investigation only considered two categories of skills, “literacy” and “illiteracy”, without gradations between these categories.

Practical implications

The conclusion reached was that Nigerian university library professionals and paraprofessionals should acquire an enhanced level of ICT literacy: both staff training and an adequate ICT infrastructure were recommended.

Originality/value

The paper gives a representative overview of the attainment level of library staff in an important area of professional competence, and shows the importance of addressing the gap between the desired levels of ICT literacy and the actual levels.
IT competencies in academic libraries: the Malaysian experience
Authors: Bakeri Abu Bakar Ahmad
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify the information technology (IT) competencies needed for information professionals in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey instrument was designed to elicit responses on a variety of IT competencies. For this purpose 13 key competencies were identified, namely: IT basics; word processing; electronic mail; internet and intranet; graphics; presentation and publishing; spreadsheet; project management; design; development and administration of databases; system maintenance; design and development of web applications; system analysis and programming for validation by the information professionals.

Findings

All 13 competencies except for system maintenance competencies were found to be important.

Research limitations/implications

The questionnaire basis of the investigation means that the data are a reflection of subjective responses from the sample in question.

Practical implications

The study has shown that there are certain competencies that are important, and yet the respondents were not exposed to these competencies. Educators should ensure that these competencies are part of the curriculum content of the courses offered by the LIS schools.

Originality/value

The paper gives important insights into the skills that are really needed by information professionals in the contemporary job market.
Promoting practitioner‐researcher collaboration in library and information science
Authors: Joint Nicholas
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To investigate ways of developing positive partnerships between practice‐based librarians and those active in library and information (LIS) research.

Design/methodology/approach

An opinion piece reflecting on issues currently discussed in the practitioner and research communities.

Findings

That there are a number of practical strategies that practitioners, researchers and funding bodies can adopt to maximise the potential for mutually beneficial collaboration.

Research limitations/implications

An expression of opinion about the value of partnering in research to the library practitioner community, and about the reasons why partnerships in this area may not occur as frequently or fruitfully as they could.

Practical implications

If taken further, the suggestions made in this editorial would enhance the quality and increase the quantity of practice‐based LIS research collaborations.

Originality/value

This opinion piece attempts to shed light for researchers on attitudes to research among the practitioner community, creating perspectives which cannot be gained from the standpoint of the research community alone.
Libraries: tools for education and development in post‐conflict Sierra Leone
Authors: Gorvie Mary
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To describe the state of the library system in Sierra Leone in the recent period after the civil war, and its part in post‐conflict reconstruction.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive account with some historical, social and geographical contextual information.

Findings

The paper demonstrates how libraries have an essential role to play in the recreation of a nation's civil fabric following a period of destruction and social disintegration.

Research limitations/implications

This account of library reconstruction during a period of post‐conflict stability describes a situation, the future development of which is dependent on a number of external variables. It is difficult to predict how those factors will in fact play out, but there is reason for cautious optimism.

Practical implications

This paper describes the pragmatic steps and policy commitments needed to restore library services in a period following a breakdown in civil order.

Originality/value

The paper gives an important insight into library work in a difficult and traumatic setting and provides ample evidence of how librarianship has an invaluable contribution to make in such environments.
Cyberspace as a vehicle for remembrance
Authors: McGettigan Liz , McMenemy David , Poulter Alan
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The paper seeks to describe the development of an internet web site to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day 2004.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides a descriptive overview of the development of the site, detailing the planning of the site, its contents and the subsequent reaction.

Findings

That the public library is well‐placed to engage in creation of information resources that challenge ignorance and racism.

Research limitations/implications

The paper suggests that further research needs to be done into library‐created resources created for communities.

Practical implications

It is of practical use for libraries planning the creation of subject‐specific internet resources or community web sites.

Originality/value

The paper discusses the role of the public library in creating unique information resources and as such develops the theme of the public library as content creator as well as content provider.
Education for librarianship in Iran before the 1979 Islamic Revolution
Authors: Hayati Zouhayr , Fattahi Rahmatollah
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To record and evaluate the impact of the American contribution to Iranian librarianship education.

Design/methodology/approach

Describes how American support created modern librarianship in Iran, thanks to a range of initiatives such as the American development foundations and programs, and the Fulbright Program, which helped the country to renovate its higher education. Reviews the advantages and disadvantages of the American model of education for librarianship, which was implemented by a number of Iranian universities. This paper also describes how American library educators were influential in the creation of some major professional library organizations such as the Tehran Book Processing Centre (TEBROC), the Iranian Documentation Centre (IRANDOC) and the Iranian Library Association (ILA).

Findings

Concludes that, despite the fact that modern librarianship in Iran came to life after the Second World War due to American assistance, the major shortcomings of the American model of library education in Iran led to lack of creativity in Iranian students, lack of independent research capability, and lack of integration between what students learned and what the Iranian library profession actually needed.

Research limitations/implications

Establishes the context of influence behind the growth of Iranian library science education, which can inform further research on such cultural impacts.

Practical implications

Since many other countries have based LIS education on an American model, they may find some similarities in the discussions in this paper with their own case.

Originality/value

This paper documents an important period of growth and development in the history of Iranian librarianship.
Visualising and mapping stakeholder influence
Authors: Bourne Lynda , Walker Derek H.T.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer insights into a tool that one of the authors has developed to help map, and thus visualise, stakeholder power and influence within the performing organisation.

Design/methodology/approach

The concept described in this paper has been tested at several large international gatherings to well over 200 active professional project managers. The feedback to date has been very positive. This positive feedback led to testing of these ideas through research being conducted during 2004/2005 by one of the authors who is a candidate for the doctor of project management (DPM) at RMIT.

Findings

The research is centred around this tool, the stakeholder circle, as a means to provide a useful and effective way to visualise stakeholder power and influence that may have pivotal impact on a project's success or failure. The stakeholder‐circle tool is developed for each project through a methodology that identifies and prioritises key project stakeholders and then develops an engagement strategy to build and maintain robust relationships with those key stakeholders. An example of the tool is presented.

Originality/value

Future papers will provide case study examples currently under way of the use of this tool. The implication for this tool's use is that project managers can clearly visualise and map stakeholder influence patterns that have significant impact on stakeholder outcome expectations.
What the hare can teach the tortoise about make‐buy strategies for radical innovations
Authors: Perrons Robert K. , Richards Matthew G. , Platts Ken
Published: June 2005

Purpose of this paper

The purpose of this investigation is to help establish: whether or not strong relationships between suppliers and customers improve performance; and if prescriptive frameworks on outsourcing radical innovations are dependent on industry clockspeed.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of UK‐based manufacturers, followed by a statistical analysis.

Findings

Long‐term supplier links seem not to play a role in the development of radical innovations. Moreover, industry clockspeed has no significant bearing on the success or failure of any outsourcing strategy for radically new technologies.

Research limitations/implications

Literature about outsourcing in the face of radical innovation can be more confidently applied to industries of all clockspeeds.

Practical implications

Prescriptions for fast clockspeed industries should be applied more broadly: all industries should maintain a high degree of vertical integration in the early days of a radical innovation.

Originality/value

Prior papers had explored whether or not a company should outsource radical innovations, but none had determined if this is equally true for slow industries and fast ones. Therein lies the original contribution of this paper.
Deceitful behaviors of alliance partners: potential and prevention
Authors: Das T.K.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To provide decision makers in strategic alliances a risk‐time framework to: categorize types of potential deceitful behaviors by partners; and adopt appropriate deterrence mechanisms to curb and control such behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The article identifies four types of deceitful behavior, based on: the degree of relational risk that characterizes interactions of a firm with its alliance partner; and the length of the deceit horizon.

Findings

Suggests a number of deterrence mechanisms for controlling the different types of deceitful behavior, with the aim of enhancing confidence in partner cooperation in alliances.

Practical implications

The article provides a practical template for alliance managers to decide what kinds of deterrence mechanisms to adopt on the basis of the type of perceived deceitful behavior of alliance partners.

Originality/value

The article responds to an unmet need of managers with alliance responsibilities for a framework to help select the most effective mechanisms to deter different kinds of potential deceitful behavior of alliance partners.
Following in the footsteps of Mary Parker Follett
Authors: Barclay Laurie J.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To examine Mary Parker Follett's writings with respect to organizational justice and highlight insights that can advance contemporary organizational justice theory as well as help justice scholars effectively address challenges currently facing the field.

Design/methodology/approach

By comparing and contrasting Follett's writings with contemporary research, the author argues that Follett provides a number of insights that can advance contemporary justice theory and research. Discusses ways in which the field can capitalize on these insights.

Findings

Follett foreshadowed a number of important justice issues that have subsequently captured the attention of contemporary justice scholars. More importantly, her process‐oriented perspective suggests a number of research avenues that have yet to be fully explored including emotionality of injustice, integrative unity, and circular responses. In order to take advantage of Follett's insights, however, contemporary justice researchers may need to re‐examine current assumptions about: the nature of organizational justice; the way that it should be studied; and the relationship between theory and practice.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to examine Follett's writings in the context of organizational justice. Although the field of organizational justice has not yet recognized Follett's work, her writings deal both explicitly and implicitly with the concept of justice in considerable depth. Not only does Follett foreshadow contemporary research, but her writings also provide alternative avenues for theory development and research.
Capital owners, entrepreneurs and managers: a Marshallian scheme
Authors: Zaratiegui Jesús M. , Arturo Rabade Luis
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The reader of Alfred Marshall writings confronts a variety of businessmen portraits that coexist along his epoch. The purpose of this paper is to describe Marshall's understanding of the capitalist‐owner concept, the way in which access to capital determined the emerging role played by entrepreneurs, the differences between entrepreneurs and managers in order to expose the characteristics that defined managerial activities.

Design/methodology/approach

A chronological review of Marshall writings revealed that the evolution of his ideas about entrepreneurship is associated to the role played by businessmen as capital owner, risk bearer, innovator, or administrator.

Findings

Marshall's analysis is useful to explain: the problem that arises in the firm when property (capital owner) and control (manager) are separated (the principal‐agent relationship); why directors of today's firms are required to embody qualities as administrators (passive superintendents) and innovators (active entrepreneurs); and how to sort out the conflict that occurs in many family firms when the founder (entrepreneur) is unable to cope with the managerial complexities associated to growth (the Marshallian “cycle life” of business and entrepreneurs).

Originality/value

Schumpeter is widely regarded in the economic literature as the one that developed the modern vision of businessmen as a risk bearer. We contend that this vision was already described by Marshall, as well as the distinction between the innovator (entrepreneur) and the orderly administrator of business (manager).
Three types of ceramic coating applicability in automotive industry for wear resistance purpose
Authors: Köse Ramazan , Urtekin Levent , Ceylan Ali , Salman Serdar , Findik Fehim
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The aim of the research is to investigate the influence of ceramic coating on the wear performance of machine parts.

Design/methodology/approach

Ductile cast iron parts were coated using ceramics. Three ceramics were used for this purpose. These coated parts were subjected to wear tests under a stable load. A pin‐on‐disc wear test apparatus was used.

Findings

As a result of this study, the following findings are reported: According to ASTM G 99‐90 pin‐on‐disc experiments, Cr2O3 was found to be best coating material with low wearing rate. Within row, Al2O3 and ZrO2 can be given. According to the previous work, motor parts for example piston ring, cylinder liner and engine valve can be coated with ceramic. In this study, it is observed that the figure of merit is increased in this study. Only wearing data is given in this research. The other results are also supporter of the results taken from the wearing experiments. As a result, due to the decrease in heat loss and coaling stability of part can provide good results. With these, by coating there is a decrease in oil reduction.

Research limitations/implications

Coatings were limited with three ceramics, a stable load was used, and coated parts were subjected to wear test.

Practical implications

For future work, instead of using other coating materials, Cr2O3 is used for the best coating material with low wearing rate. By this process, working life of the machine parts can be extended and a number of economical advantages may also be obtained.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills identified information needs and offers practical help to the industrial firms working with ceramic coating and also to the academicians working on wear of materials.
High‐temperature tensile and wear behaviour of microalloyed medium carbon steel
Authors: Gündüz Süleyman , Acarer Mustafa
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To provide new observations about dynamic strain ageing in medium carbon microalloyed steels which are used for automotive applications.

Design/methodology/approach

The present work aims to provide theoretical and practical information to industries or researchers who maybe interested in the effects of dynamic strain ageing on mechanical properties of microalloyed steel. The sources are sorted into sections: introduction, experimental procedure, results and discussion, conclusion.

Findings

Microalloyed medium carbon steel was susceptible to dynamic strain ageing where serrated flow is observed at temperatures between 200 and 350°C. In this temperature regime, ultimate tensile strength and proof stress exhibit maximum values, however, elongation to fracture showed a decrease until 250°C, after which it increased. Above 350°C, a sharp decrease in tensile strength and proof stress were observed. Abrasive wear resistance of the microalloyed medium carbon steel was also increased at temperatures between 200 and 350°C due to dynamic strain ageing.

Research limitations/implications

A search of the literature indicated that although there is considerable volume of information related to dynamic strain ageing in mild steel or in low‐carbon steel no extensive investigation has been made of dynamic strain ageing in microalloyed steel due to the ease with which nitrogen is combined AlN, VN, NbN, etc. which perhaps increase its implications.

Practical implications

A very useful source of information for industries using or planning to produce microalloyed steels.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified resource need and offers practical help to the industries.
Abrasive wear behaviour of concussor jaws welded using a gas metal arc welding process
Authors: Kıratlı Nurullah
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The aim of the research is to investigate the influence of gas metal arc welding on the wear performance of worn concussor jaws.

Design/methodology/approach

Worn parts were welded using the gas metal arc welding process. Various wires were used for this purpose. These welded parts were subjected to wear tests under different loads, and changes in the hardness and microstructures were examined. A pin‐on‐disc wear test apparatus was used.

Findings

As a result of this study, the following findings are reported: wear rates were significantly increased with the increasing of load and wear distance; the hardness of the weld metal of the welded specimens changed depending upon the chemical composition of the weld wire; with the increasing carbon, manganese and chromium in the weld wire, wear resistance increased; in the present study, specimens B and C showed better wear resistance; therefore these specimens are suitable for using in concussor jaws.

Research limitations/implications

Electrodes were limited with four wires, for welding gas arc welding methods were applied, loads were limited with 10, 25, 40 N, welded parts were subjected to wear test, hardness test, microstructures were examined.

Practical implications

For future work, instead of buying worn concussor jaws, they are repaired with the gas metal arc welding process using various weld wires. By this process, working life of the jaws can be extended and vast economical benefit may also be obtained.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified information need and offers practical help to the industrial firms working with alunit ore and rock crasher and also to the academicians working on wear of materials.
Secant‐shaped porous slider bearing lubricated with couplestress fluids
Authors: Bujurke N.M. , Naduvinamani N.B. , Benchalli S.S.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To study the combined effects of permeability and couplestresses on the performance characteristics of a secant‐shaped porous slider bearing lubricated with Stokes couplestress fluid.

Design/methodology/approach

The modified Reynolds type equation governing the fluid film pressure is derived on the basis of Stokes microcontinuum theory of couplestress fluids by using Beavers‐Joshep slip boundary conditions at the fluid‐porous interface. The modified Reynolds equation is solved analytically and closed form expressions are obtained for the fluid film pressure, load carrying capacity, frictional force and centre of pressure.

Findings

The bearing characteristics are computed for various values of the couple stress parameter, slip parameter and the permeability parameters. It is found that, the effect of couple stress is to increase the load carrying capacity and to decrease the coefficient of friction as compared to the Newtonian case. However, the effect of permeability parameter is to decrease the load carrying capacity. It is also found that, the effect of couple stresses is to shift the center of pressure towards the outlet edge.

Research limitations/implications

The end effects are neglected in the analysis and these can be included in the study by considering full three‐dimensional problem.

Practical implications

Reduction in the load carrying capacity due to the presence of porous facing can be compensated by the use of lubricants containing additives of proper size. As a result the bearing performance can be improved.

Originality/value

This paper provides closed form expressions for the bearing characteristics and are analyzed with respect to non‐dimensional parameters, viz. couplestress parameter, slip parameter and permeability parameter. This paper offers help to design engineers to design efficient bearing systems.
Lubricating durability of two GF category engine oils
Authors: Ma Yajun , Zhao Wancheng , Li Shenghua , Jin Yuansheng , Wang Yucong , Simon Tung C.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Improved fuel economy, lower emission and longer durability are the major developing trends of engine oils. Aims to describe further research on the friction coefficient of engine oils.

Design/methodology/approach

The lubricating durability D was defined based on definition of three characteristic points Pd, PS, Pi and three key time lengths Td, Ts, Ti. Two kinds of engine oils, respectively, belonging to GF‐2 and GF‐3 categories, were selected as samples to compare their lubricating durability.

Findings

Test results indicate the GF‐3 oil has much better lubricating durability than GF‐2 oil. With investigation of the topography and chemical composition changes of wear tracks along with the tribotests' time extending, the meanings of three characteristic points were discussed. Analysis indicates much better tribofilm, formed by the synergistic effect of Ca‐containing detergent with MoDTC/ZDTP in GF‐3 oil, is the major factor resulting in GF‐3 oil's longer lubricating durability.

Originality/value

Provides further research on lubricating durability, which is important for engine oil change and maintenance, as well as decreased cost and pollution to the environment, and improved energy conservation.
Using system dynamics in a discrete‐event simulation study of a manufacturing plant
Authors: Greasley Andrew
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To provide an example of the use of system dynamics within the context of a discrete‐event simulation study.

Design/methodology/approach

A discrete‐event simulation study of a production‐planning facility in a gas cylinder‐manufacturing plant is presented. The case study evidence incorporates questionnaire responses from sales managers involved in the order‐scheduling process.

Findings

As the project progressed it became clear that, although the discrete‐event simulation would meet the objectives of the study in a technical sense, the organizational problem of “delivery performance” would not be solved by the discrete‐event simulation study alone. The case shows how the qualitative outcomes of the discrete‐event simulation study led to an analysis using the system dynamics technique. The system dynamics technique was able to model the decision‐makers in the sales and production process and provide a deeper understanding of the performance of the system.

Research limitations/implications

The case study describes a traditional discrete‐event simulation study which incorporated an unplanned investigation using system dynamics. Further, case studies using a planned approach to showing consideration of organizational issues in discrete‐event simulation studies are required. Then the role of both qualitative data in a discrete‐event simulation study and the use of supplementary tools which incorporate organizational aspects may help generate a methodology for discrete‐event simulation that incorporates human aspects and so improve its relevance for decision making.

Practical implications

It is argued that system dynamics can provide a useful addition to the toolkit of the discrete‐event simulation practitioner in helping them incorporate a human aspect in their analysis.

Originality/value

Helps decision makers gain a broader perspective on the tools available to them by showing the use of system dynamics to supplement the use of discrete‐event simulation.