bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Approximation schemes for ordered vector packing problems
Authors: Caprara Alberto , Kellerer Hans , Pferschy Ulrich
Published: January 2003

In this paper we deal with the d‐dimensional vector packing problem, which is a generalization of the classical bin packing problem in which each item has d distinct weights and each bin has d corresponding capacities. We address the case in which the vectors of weights associated with the items are totally ordered, i.e., given any two weight vectors ai, aj, either ai is componentwise not smaller than aj or aj is componentwise not smaller than ai. An asymptotic polynomial‐time approximation scheme is constructed for this case. As a corollary, we also obtain such a scheme for the bin packing problem with cardinality constraint, whose existence was an open question to the best of our knowledge. We also extend the result to instances with constant Dilworth number, i.e., instances where the set of items can be partitioned into a constant number of totally ordered subsets. We use ideas from classical and recent approximation schemes for related problems, as well as a nontrivial procedure to round an LP solution associated with the packing of the small items. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2003
Treatment of cast bronchitis with low‐dose oral azithromycin
Authors: Schultz Karen D. , Oermann Christopher M.
Published: January 2003

Cast or plastic bronchitis is an unusual disorder that is rarely encountered in the pediatric population. It is characterized by the expectoration of large, branching plugs of airway debris. These “casts” conform to the shape of portions of the tracheobronchial tree, and give the disorder its name. Cast bronchitis is typically seen in association with several primary pulmonary disorders and cyanotic congenital heart disease. It can be classified as inflammatory or acellular, based on the histologic characteristics of the casts. The presence of large, obstructive plugs filling the airways of lobes or entire lungs can result in a variety of clinical signs and symptoms, and may ultimately lead to respiratory failure and death. Conventional treatment of cast bronchitis has focused on the clearance of obstructing material from the airways combined with therapy for any underlying cardiopulmonary disease. Unfortunately, this approach has not proven very effective, and patient mortality remains high.

We report on a case in which a patient with cast bronchitis was treated with long‐term, low‐dose oral azithromycin. This therapy resulted in clinical, spirometric, and radiographic improvement of the patient. Pediatr Pulmonol. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2003; 35:139–143. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Validation of shuttle tests in children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Selvadurai Hiran C. , Cooper Peter J. , Meyers Nicholas , Blimkie Cameron J. , Smith Lucia , Mellis Craig M. , Van Asperen Peter P.
Published: January 2003

Shuttle tests are simple, inexpensive field tests that have been used to estimate the cardiorespiratory status of children. It has yet to be validated in children with CF. The aim of this study was to assess the reproducibility and criterion validity of shuttle tests in children with cystic fibrosis (CF).

Ninety‐three CF patients aged 6 to 16 years of age with a wide range of disease severity performed the study. The 10‐m shuttle test was used for children 7 years of age and younger and those deemed too chronically ill by their physicians to perform the longer test (n = 35.) All other children performed the 20‐m shuttle test (n = 58). Reproducibility and criterion validity were assessed for each child over a two week period. Gas analysis was performed throughout testing using a polargraphic gas analyzer.

The 10‐m shuttle tests were reproducible (mean difference between tests VO2 2.41 mL/kg/min, CI 3.46,−0.18) and the difference from treadmill testing was not statistically significant (mean difference VO2 5.30 mL/kg/min, CI‐7.46, 1.18). The 20‐m shuttle tests were reproducible (mean difference between tests VO2 2.07 mL/kg/min, CI‐3.90,0.60) and the difference from treadmill testing was not statistically significant (mean difference VO2 3.50 mL/kg/min, CI‐4.90, 1.60).

We conclude that when formal exercise testing with treadmill or cycle ergometer cannot be performed, the shuttle tests provide a reproducible and valid alternative. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2003; 35:133–138. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acute neurological deficits in a young adult with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Sritippayawan Suchada , MacLaughlin Eithne F. , Woo Marlyn S.
Published: January 2003

An abrupt onset of a neurological deficit is a rare occurrence in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). As many CF patients have indwelling intravenous catheters, one of the complications may be deep venous thrombosis. Cerebral thromboembolism through an intracardiac shunt should be considered in CF patients who develop unexplained acute neurological deficits. We report on the case of a 19‐year‐old CF patient with insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus who was on oral contraceptives and had a Port‐A‐Cath® in place.

The patient developed an acute neurological deficit after pulmonary function testing. Radiologic investigations of her head and neck were unremarkable, except for bilateral maxillary and ethmoid sinusitis. An electroencephalogram showed epileptiform discharges primarily from the right hemisphere. A transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) revealed a small thrombus in the right atrium. A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) demonstrated a left‐to‐right shunt through a patent foramen ovale (PFO) that was not found by TTE. Extensive investigation to rule out congenital and acquired thrombophilia was negative. Treatment consisted of aspirin and discontinuation of oral contraceptives and vitamin K supplementation. Spontaneous complete recovery of the neurological deficits occurred within 24 hr after onset of symptoms.

We conclude that paradoxical embolism should be in the differential diagnoses of CF patients who have indwelling intravenous catheters and who develop an unexplained stroke. An extensive investigation to rule out intracardiac abnormalities and thrombophilia should be considered. The risks and benefits of PFO closure vs. prophylactic anticoagulant and antiplatelet aggregation treatment in this group of patients should be carefully weighed. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2003; 35:147–151. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Surgical treatment of pulmonary hydatid cysts in pediatric patients
Authors: Sivrikoz M. Cumhur , Tunçözgür Bülent , Nacak İbrahim , Elbeyli Levent
Published: January 2003

Hydatid cyst is a zoonotic infection that is caused by Echinococcus granulosus and alveolaris, and that can result in endemics in rural regions. Infections caused by Echinococcus granulosus are more commonly seen in our country. In this retrospective study, we aimed at discussing the experience we have accumulated on pediatric pulmonary hydatid cyst cases over the last 6 years. Between 1995–2001, in the Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery in Gaziantep University, 38 cases underwent 39 operations due to pulmonary and hepatic hydatid cysts. Of these, 24 were males and 14 were females, with an age range of 2–16 years. Operations were frequently performed via thoracotomy.

Nineteen cysts were intact, and 26 were perforated. One case had sternotomy, another had sequential thoracotomy, and the rest of the cases underwent thoracotomy, which resulted in cystotomy‐capitonnage. In the postoperative period, 2 patients had sustained air leakage, and 2 other cases developed skin infections. Average hospital stay was 5 days. After the operation, the patients received chemotherapy (albendazole 10 mg/kg/day) for 1.5 months. Early or late deaths or recurrences were not observed.

We conclude that cystotomy‐capitonnage is a successful treatment for pediatric pulmonary hydatid cysts, as it preserves the parenchyma. Chemotherapy in the postoperative period is beneficial in preventing the recurrences. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2003; 35:87–90. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The “wandering needle”
Authors: Brand Paul L.P. , Rosingh H. Jeroen
Published: January 2003

Suspected aspiration of a radiopaque foreign body can easily be confirmed by a chest film. We report a case of a boy with chest‐film confirmed aspiration of a needle into his right main bronchus, in whom no needle was found during bronchoscopy. In retrospect, the boy had expectorated the needle without noticing it in the interval between making the diagnosis and the actual bronchoscopy. We propose to reconfirm aspiration of a radiopaque foreign body by fluoroscopy shortly before commencing bronchoscopy. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2003; 35:152–154. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Maximal static respiratory pressures in children and adolescents
Authors: Domènech‐Clar R. , López‐Andreu J.A. , Compte‐Torrero L. , De Diego‐Damiá A. , Macián‐Gisbert V. , Perpiñá‐Tordera M. , Roqués‐Serradilla J.M.
Published: January 2003

This study was designed to establish reference values of maximal static respiratory pressures in children and adolescents in our community, and compare them with previous studies.

Participants were recruited from three schools (randomly chosen from those located in the metropolitan area of the city of Valencia) after appropriate consent. None of the participants had a previous history of pulmonary, cardiac, and/or skeletal abnormalities, and all of them had normal spirometry.

Forced spirometry (Spirotrac III, Vitalograph) and maximal inspiratory (PImaxRV) and expiratory (PEmaxTLC) pressure values (Sibelmed 163) were obtained by the same investigator, following national guidelines (SEPAR 1990).

We studied 392 subjects (185 males, 207 females) whose ages ranged from 8–17 years. The reproducibility of measurements was investigated in a subgroup of 88 participants (randomly selected from the total sample, and stratified for age and gender) by means of the intraclass correlation coefficient (PEmaxTLC, 0.98; PImaxRV, 0.95). PEmaxTLC and PImaxRV values were significantly different between males and females (P < 0.0001) and were normally distributed. A stepwise, linear multiple regression model was built in each gender group (male/female) for the prediction of PImaxRV and PEmaxTLC values. Independent variables (weight, height, and age) and their potential interactions were forced to enter the model in order to maximize the square of the multiple correlation coefficient of the resultant equation. This model turned out to be applicable (homoscedasticity, independence, and normality requirements) for PImaxRV (in males and females) and for PEmaxTLC (in males but not in females). Variables included in the model were age and the product of weight and height. Their predictive power ranged between 0.21–0.51.

In conclusion, PImaxRV and PEmaxTLC values increase with age from 8 until 17 years. In all age groups, values were higher in males than in females. Weight, height, and age are included in the predictive equations for PImaxRV (in males and females) and PEmaxTLC (in males). Their predictive value is similar to that reported by other authors and ranges between 0.21–0.51. This model is not suitable for the prediction of PEmaxTLC in females; the observed mean and range should be used instead. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2003; 35:126–132. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chronic Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia associated with extensive pneumatocele formation in a child with human immunodeficiency virus infection
Authors: Holland Eliza T. , Saulsbury Frank T.
Published: January 2003

We describe a 12‐year‐old boy with Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia complicated by extensive pneumatocele formation as the presenting manifestation of human immunodeficiency virus infection. This report emphasizes the importance of considering Pneumocystis carinii infection in the differential diagnosis of pneumonia associated with pneumatocele formation in children. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2003; 35:144–146. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Potential soil carbon sequestration in overgrazed grassland ecosystems
Authors: Conant Richard T. , Paustian Keith
Published: January 2003

Excessive grazing pressure is detrimental to plant productivity and may lead to declines in soil organic matter. Soil organic matter is an important source of plant nutrients and can enhance soil aggregation, limit soil erosion, and can also increase cation exchange and water holding capacities, and is, therefore, a key regulator of grassland ecosystem processes. Changes in grassland management which reverse the process of declining productivity can potentially lead to increased soil C. Thus, rehabilitation of areas degraded by overgrazing can potentially sequester atmospheric C. We compiled data from the literature to evaluate the influence of grazing intensity on soil C. Based on data contained within these studies, we ascertained a positive linear relationship between potential C sequestration and mean annual precipitation which we extrapolated to estimate global C sequestration potential with rehabilitation of overgrazed grassland. The GLASOD and IGBP DISCover data sets were integrated to generate a map of overgrazed grassland area for each of four severity classes on each continent. Our regression model predicted losses of soil C with decreased grazing intensity in drier areas (precipitation less than 333 mm yr−1), but substantial sequestration in wetter areas. Most (93%) C sequestration potential occurred in areas with MAP less than 1800 mm. Universal rehabilitation of overgrazed grasslands can sequester approximately 45 Tg C yr−1, most of which can be achieved simply by cessation of overgrazing and implementation of moderate grazing intensity. Institutional level investments by governments may be required to sequester additional C.
Resistive MHD simulations of Ganymede's magnetosphere 1. Time variabilities of the magnetic field topology
Authors: Kopp Andreas , Ip Wing‐Huen
Published: January 2003

The time‐variable structure of Ganymede's magnetosphere is studied by means of resistive MHD simulations. Using the magnetometer measurements of the Galileo spacecraft in the first few Ganymede flybys as examples, we find that the plasma flow pattern inside the Ganymedian magnetosphere could be subject to significant changes. Furthermore, the boundary of the polar cap dividing the open magnetic field region from the closed magnetic field region could expand or contract as the Jovian magnetic field swings inward and outward. Such an effect could be related to the Hubble Space Telescope observations of large time variability of the atomic oxygen airglow near the polar regions of Ganymede.
Spatiotemporal variability and propagation of equatorial noise observed by Cluster
Authors: Santolík O. , Pickett J. S. , Gurnett D. A. , Maksimovic M. , Cornilleau‐Wehrlin N.
Published: January 2003

We report a multipoint case study of the electromagnetic equatorial noise observed by the Cluster project. High‐resolution data were measured in three close points in space located in the morning sector of the outer plasmasphere. We demonstrate a narrow latitudinal extent of the emissions with a typical width of 2°, centered near the minimum‐B equator. Power spectra recorded by the different satellites show a complex structure of emission lines whose relative intensities and positions vary at timescales of 1–2 min and/or at spatial scales of tens of wavelengths. These lines do not match harmonics of the local proton cyclotron frequency, as it would be expected if the waves are generated by energetic ions and observed near the source region. We bring observational evidence that the waves propagate with a significant radial component and thus can propagate from a distant generation region located at different radial distances where ion cyclotron frequencies match the observed fine structure.
Joint inversion of normal mode and body wave data for inner core anisotropy 2. Possible complexities
Authors: Ishii Miaki , Dziewoński Adam M. , Tromp Jeroen , Ekström Göran
Published: January 2003

In this study we focus on inner core sensitive body wave data to investigate lateral and radial heterogeneity within the inner core. Normal mode data are used to constrain a global model and to monitor if complexities introduced by body wave data are compatible with mode measurements. In particular, we investigate the possibilities of an isotropic layer near the inner core boundary and large‐scale variations in anisotropy such as hemispheric dependence proposed in studies based upon differential travel time data. Travel time data from distances between 130° and 140° require anisotropy near the inner core boundary. This evidence is supported by differential travel time data based upon diffracted waves, contrasting the previous inferences of isotropy at the surface of the inner core. Our experiments also show that variations at a hemispheric scale are not necessary and that the sources of apparent hemispheric differences can be localized. A comparison of differential and absolute travel time data suggests that differences in inferred inner core anisotropy models arise mainly from a few anomalous paths. These paths are responsible for the strong anisotropy which is characteristic of models based upon differential data. Assuming constant anisotropy in the inner core, we investigate the distribution of residual differential travel times at the entry and exit points of rays turning within the outer core. The results are consistent with existing models of structure near the core‐mantle boundary. Placing the source of the difference between differential and absolute travel time data in the lowermost mantle gives a more satisfactory result than attempting to model it with a complex inner core.
SUBDUCTION ZONES
Authors: Stern Robert J.
Published: January 2003

Subduction zones are where sediments, oceanic crust, and mantle lithosphere return to and reequilibrate with Earth's mantle. Subduction zones are interior expressions of Earth's 55,000 km of convergent plate margins and are the geodynamic system that builds island arcs. Excess density of the mantle lithosphere in subduction zones provides most of the power needed to move the plates while inducing convection in the overriding mantle wedge. Asthenospheric mantle sucked toward the trench by the sinking slab interacts with water and incompatible elements rising from the sinking plate, and this interaction causes the mantle to melt. These melts rise vertically through downwelling mantle to erupt at arc volcanoes. Subduction zones are thus interior Earth systems of unparalleled scale and complexity. Subduction zone igneous activity formed most ore deposits and continental crust, and earthquakes caused by the downgoing plate present a growing hazard to society. This overview summarizes our present understanding of subduction zones, using perspectives of the incoming plate, downgoing plate, mantle wedge, and arc‐trench complex. Understanding the operation of subduction zones stands as one of the great challenges facing the Earth sciences in the 21st century and will require the efforts of global interdisciplinary teams.
Prediction of wrinkling initiation in sheet metal forming processes
Authors: Kim J.B. , Yang D.Y.
Published: January 2003

The initiation and growth of wrinkles are influenced by many factors such as stress ratios, the mechanical properties of the sheet material, the geometry of the workpiece, contact condition, etc. It is difficult to analyze wrinkling initiation and growth while considering all the factors because the effects of the factors are very complex and studies of wrinkling behavior may show a wide scattering of data even for small deviations in factors. The finite element analyses of wrinkling initiation and growth in sheet metal forming process provide detailed information about the wrinkling behavior of sheet metal. The direct analysis of wrinkling initiation and growth, however, brings about a little difficulty in complex industrial problems because it requires large memory size and long computation time. From the industrial viewpoint of tooling design, therefore, readily available information on the possibility and location of wrinkling is sometimes more preferable to detailed and time‐consuming analysis results. In the present study, in order to give such readily available information on wrinkling initiation, the wrinkling factor, which shows the locations and relative possibility of wrinkling initiation, is proposed as a convenient tool of relative wrinkling estimation based on the energy criterion. The reliability of the wrinkling factor is verified through the buckling analyses of sheet strips. The location and relative possibility of wrinkling initiation are predicted by calculating the wrinkling factor in various sheet metal forming processes such as cylindrical cup deep drawing, spherical cup deep drawing, and elliptical cup deep drawing. Finally, the wrinkling factor proposed in the present study is also implemented in the prediction of wrinkling in the door inner stamping process. For verification of the calculated wrinkling factor, detailed zone analyses with fine meshes are carried out for the regions where wrinkling is predicted.
Friction evolution as a result of roughness in fractal interfaces
Authors: Mistakidis E.S. , Panagouli O.K.
Published: January 2003

In this paper, the influence of fractal interface geometry to the evolution of the friction mechanism is studied. The paper is based on fractal approaches for the modeling of the multiscale self‐affine topography of these interfaces. More specifically, these approaches are based on scale‐independent parameters such as the fractal dimension. Here, friction between rough surfaces is assumed to be the result of the gradual plastification of the fractal interface asperities. In order to study the resulting highly nonlinear problem a variational formulation is used in order to describe contact between the interfaces. The numerical method used here leads to the successive solution of quadratic optimization problems. Finally, structures with different fractal interfaces are analyzed in order to obtain results for the relation between the fractal dimension and the overall response of the structures.
Suboptimal cycle bases for the force method
Authors: Kaveh A. , Roosta G.R.
Published: January 2003

An improvement is presented for the existing minimal cycle basis selection algorithms increasing their efficiency. This consists of reducing the number of cycles to be considered as candidates for being the elements of a minimal cycle basis and makes practical use of the Greedy algorithm feasible. A modification is also included to form suboptimal‐minimal cycle bases in place of minimal bases. An efficient algorithm is developed to form suboptimal cycle bases of graphs, in which the Greedy algorithm is applied twice. First a suboptimal minimal cycle basis is formed, and then ignoring the minimality, a basis with elements having smaller overlaps is selected.
The numerical modelling of ceramics subject to impact using adaptive discrete element techniques
Authors: Cottrell M.G. , Yu J. , Wei Z.J. , Owen D.R.J.
Published: January 2003

In recent years, developments in the field of lightweight armour have been of primary importance to the defence industry. This necessity has led to many organisations adopting composite armours comprising both the traditional heavy armours and new lighter weight ceramic armours. The numerical modelling of metal based armour systems has been well documented over the years using purely continuum based methods; and also the modelling of brittle systems using discrete element methods, therefore it is the objective of this paper to demonstrate how a coupled finite and discrete element approach, can be used in the further understanding of the quantitative response of ceramic systems when subjected to dynamic loadings using a combination of adaptive continuum techniques and discrete element methods. For the class of problems encountered within the defence industry, numerical modelling has suffered from one principal weakness; for many applications the associated deformed finite element mesh can no longer provide an accurate description of the deformed material, whether this is due to large ductile deformation, or for the case of brittle materials, degradation into multiple bodies. Subsequently, two very different approaches have been developed to combat such deficiencies, namely the use of adaptive remeshing for the ductile type materials and a discrete fracture insertion scheme for the modelling of material degradation. Therefore, one of the primary objectives of this paper is to present examples demonstrating the potential benefits of explicitly coupling adaptive remeshing methods to the technique of discrete fracture insertion in order to provide an adaptive discontinuous solution strategy, which is computationally robust and efficient.
The line‐up of leadership
Authors: Kondo Yoshio
Published: January 2003

Discusses topics claimed to be indispensable for displaying leadership: the right job for the right person; mandatory aims and optional methods approach; common aims and “dream”; special features of quality; fostering creative ability; and cooperation and completion. Looks at their mutual relationship. Concludes that the separation of planning from execution is a different activity from leadership, and that clarification of the mutual relationship between important elements of leadership is important.
How IMS can achieve ISO 9001:2000 certification
Authors: Chan Y.K. , Kam Jacob , Neailey K. , Ip W.H.
Published: January 2003

A significant milestone of the quality journey of the MTR Corporation (MTR) was the establishment of the ISO 9000‐based quality management system (QMS) in its core departments. Adopting the ISO 9000 standards, the QMS provided a framework for the Corporation’s quality, safety and environmental management systems, linking and standardizing all work processes from the top management down to the shopfloor. Various initiatives of the MTR’s integrated management system (IMS) such as core business process maps are developed with a view to link all constituent activities of the railway into its core business processes. The Corporation’s quality endeavours were publicly recognized by the ISO 9000 certification in 1992 and by the new version in 2000. This paper shares the MTR’s experience on how its IMS can achieve ISO 9001:2000 certification.
TPM: situation and procedure for a soft introduction in Italian factories
Authors: Ferrari Emilio , Pareschi Arrigo , Regattieri Alberto , Persona Alessandro
Published: January 2003

Personalization of products, mix variability and short time to market are the most important factors that have forced companies to a new form of organization during past years. A very common reply to this question is a lean organization based on flexibility of productive lines, reduction of storage and integration among company sections. In this context, quite differently from a traditional system, the maintenance function must work efficiently. Also the maintenance division must contribute to the success of the factory. Aims to introduce a methodology for a soft and tenable application of the principles of total productive maintenance (TPM) in Italian factories. The first step of the study is an explanation of the actual situation, usually based on traditional or on productive maintenance. After a brief introduction, focuses on TPM links with productive maintenance in order to suggest a method for TPM. Concludes with a real application of TPM in a big factory, with a description of a world leader in plant manufacturing for the ceramics industry.
Total productive maintenance in a South African pulp and paper company: a case study
Authors: van der Wal R.W.E , Lynn D.
Published: January 2003

Looks at the implementation of total productive maintenance (TPM) at one South African mill and attempts to establish the influence that this journey has had on productivity, employee development, quality improvement and organisational change within the manufacturing unit. A literature survey was undertaken into the methodologies, including a look at the so‐called “soft issues” or people issues to evaluate the benefits of adopting a TPM strategy. Questionnaires were also sent out to a sample of selected people at all levels of the organisation to find out their views on the methodology being used. Concludes that this journey has been successful in spite of the difficulties specific to South Africa. The final objective of this research was to establish whether the implementation of this process had resulted in change within the mill. Increases in productivity, quality and a reduction in the cost of producing the product resulted in the mill winning a gold award from the National Productivity Institute.
Barriers to implementing TQM in Indonesian manufacturing organizations
Authors: Amar Kifayah , Mohd Zain Zuraidah
Published: January 2003

This study examines the barriers faced by Indonesian manufacturing organizations in the implementation of TQM. Out of a total sample size of 364 selected organizations identified for a multi‐response survey, 78 organizations responded. The analysis identified 11 pertinent factors acting as barriers that are most frequently faced by the local organizations. These are issues related to human resource, management, attitude towards quality, organizational culture, interdepartmental relations, raw materials, machines and equipment, information, method and training. A qualitative comparison with ISO 9001:2000 is made which is believed to be close to the TQM concepts discussed at the end of this article.
Factor analysis on service attributes of Canakkale municipality
Authors: Gumus Murat , Koleoglu Nilay
Published: January 2003

Owing to the customer‐oriented service endeavours, firms, either private or public, need to improve service offerings by determining the demands of their target groups. Exploring the current ratings of customer expectations and customer perceptions on specific service attributes provides a tool for management in order to improve the service quality of the firm. Within this context, this study aims at determining the current service quality level of Canakkale municipality. The research instrument was prepared by adapting SERVQUAL and SERVPERF partly. One new question was added to see the suggestions of the people for getting high quality and highly satisfying service. The instrument was carried out on 256 participants who live in Canakkale and pay their bills for the services offered to them. Overall, the quality and satisfaction levels are average. Education for managers and service personnel is the main proposal for the improvement in service quality and consumer satisfaction.
The development of sector‐based quality assurance standards in the UK: diverging or dovetailing?
Authors: Ogden Susan M. , Grigg Nigel P.
Published: January 2003

In 1979, the UK set the standard on which the universally recognised ISO 9000 series was based. Part of the rationale for the creation of a generic quality assurance standard was that it would supplant the need for independent customer inspections, avoid duplications of audits, and coordinate the various national approaches to quality standards. Ironically, however, as the award has grown internationally, there has been a corresponding growth in the number and type of quality standards available to UK organisations. This paper reviews the development of sector‐based quality assurance standards in the UK leisure, hospitality and food industries and draws conclusions on the extent to which the various standards can be aligned. It is found that whereas industry‐specific standards in the food industry dovetail with generic standards, there is a degree of overlap in the hospitality and leisure sectors.
Managing for quality in the USA and Japan: differences between the MBNQA, DP and JQA
Authors: Khoo Hsien H. , Tan Kay C.
Published: January 2003

Japanese and US organizations, in their strivings to achieve organizational and quality excellence, differ significantly in various aspects of management and work culture. Spiritual teachings, such as Shintoism and Buddhism, have shaped the Japanese people’s concept of human relations and management philosophy. The West, on the other hand, highly advocates freedom and creative thinking, and has created competitiveness through fostering a culture of entrepreneurship. The US Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the Japanese Deming Prize, and the Japan Quality Award, contain in their frameworks several total quality management (TQM) concepts, including: leadership and social responsibilities, strategies and plans, customer focus/relations, human resource development, information management, processes, quality, suppliers, and overall results. This article compares the distinctive differences and overlapping concepts between the US and Japanese approach to TQM, with regard to the countries’ quality award frameworks and criteria.
The new performance evaluation methodology and its integration with management systems
Authors: Flávio Guerra Machado Coelho José , Moy David
Published: January 2003

Sustainability of organizations is directly linked to the continual improvement of business performance. Many organizations have found a way to improve performance through the establishment of management systems. To maximise benefits of the system, it is necessary also to develop and implement a well‐structured performance evaluation process to assist both the business and its interested parties achieve agreed objectives, in a sustainable way. This paper considers a new methodology for performance evaluation of management systems based on the concepts of the AS/NZS ISO 14031:2000, CSA PLUS 1144 and GEMI – measuring environmental performance. The methodology is being developed at a time when there is increasing interest in social issues, as one of the three constituent parts of sustainability (social, economic and environment). The material presented is derived in part from PhD studies of José Flávio Coelho.
Assessing quality management systems of Mexico’s maquiladoras
Authors: Aly Nael , Schloss Daniel
Published: January 2003

Assesses the quality management systems of the maquiladoras in the Tijuana region of Mexico. Maquiladoras are manufacturing plants set up by foreign companies in the border zone of North Mexico to produce finished goods for export. Information was gathered by survey from companies representing the Pacific Rim, Europe, the USA and Mexico, and from different manufacturing sectors. The survey addressed quality management system certification, quality data collection and analysis, total quality management (TQM) and statistical process control (SPC) implementation, teamwork, communication and training practices, as well as suppliers certification requirements. The results showed that the majority of the responding maquiladoras generally have a decent quality management system, over half indicated that they have a certified quality system, and a large percentage reported utilizing teamwork for problem solving and many SPC charts such as Pareto and control charts. The maquiladoras are creating “quality culture” in Mexico’s manufacturing systems based on the principles TQM. This could be instrumental in transforming Mexico’s manufacturing from being known as a “cheap labor” provider into becoming a global manufacturing power.
Future considerations for the training and development of Australian quality managers
Authors: Stewart Deb , Waddell Dianne
Published: January 2003

Adequate, appropriate training of quality managers is essential to the development and implementation of effective quality management systems. This study reports on a survey of 235 Australian quality managers to determine their perceptions of their training and development needs, the extent to which these were being met, and their views on the future of their discipline. The study found that there was a general lack of systematisation, most programs were short‐term and delivered by a fragmented set of providers. Many managers had received no training in the past five years. While the respondents were generally satisfied with the training they had received, there was evidence that their insight into their own needs was imperfect. The respondents were divided between those who thought quality management would remain a discrete field and those who saw it being absorbed by other management systems. The challenges of developing an appropriate training and development regime in this environment are discussed.
SME integrated management system: a proposed experiences model
Authors: Mackau Dirk
Published: January 2003

In the past, many management systems have been developed. This paper describes a new concept especially suitable for small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises that integrates different kinds of management systems. First of all, requirements for a reference model have been derived. Then, as one objective is to increase acceptance of management systems, employee participation measures have been considered in order to enhance long‐term success. Finally, results from a case study in a small construction company in Germany are presented. The integrated management system in the case study is built up in a process‐oriented way and considers the standards ISO 9001 (quality), ISO 14001 (environment) and SCC (occupational safety). Several measures to stimulate employee participation are described and evaluated, e.g. vision workshop, CI‐circle, use of project groups to identify, visualise and revise work processes.
The moderating impacts of business planning and firm size on total quality management practices
Authors: Temtime Z.T.
Published: January 2003

Total quality management (TQM) research has concentrated on large firms. Little has been done on the TQM practices of small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly in developing countries. This paper investigates the relationship between TQM, planning behavior and firm size by reviewing existing literature and collecting primary data from 54 SMEs in the Republic of Botswana. The findings indicated that the majority of SMEs understand the importance of both TQM and planning activities for their survival and growth. However, their approach to both is unsystematic, non‐formal and short‐term oriented. Both firm size and planning behavior are found to have statistically significant relationships with TQM practices. As firm size increases from small to medium, and as SMEs move from operational to strategic planning, they attach greater degree of importance to TQM practices. However, the planning behavior of SMEs is more strongly related to TQM practices than firm size. Suggests the promotion of business planning as a prerequisite to the adoption of formalized TQM practices. Some implications for SMEs are also forwarded.
Pathogenic Human Viruses in Coastal Waters
Authors: Griffin Dale W. , Donaldson Kim A. , Paul John H. , Rose Joan B.
Published: January 2003

This review addresses both historical and recent investigations into viral contamination of marine waters. With the relatively recent emergence of molecular biology-based assays, a number of investigations have shown that pathogenic viruses are prevalent in marine waters being impacted by sewage. Research has shown that this group of fecal-oral viral pathogens (enteroviruses, hepatitis A viruses, Norwalk viruses, reoviruses, adenoviruses, rotaviruses, etc.) can cause a broad range of asymptomatic to severe gastrointestinal, respiratory, and eye, nose, ear, and skin infections in people exposed through recreational use of the water. The viruses and the nucleic acid signature survive for an extended period in the marine environment. One of the primary concerns of public health officials is the relationship between the presence of pathogens and the recreational risk to human health in polluted marine environments. While a number of studies have attempted to address this issue, the relationship is still poorly understood. A contributing factor to our lack of progress in the field has been the lack of sensitive methods to detect the broad range of both bacterial and viral pathogens. The application of new and advanced molecular methods will continue to contribute to our current state of knowledge in this emerging and important field.
Membrane Association Facilitates the Correct Processing of pp220 during Production of the Major Matrix Proteins of African Swine Fever Virus
Authors: Heath Colin M. , Windsor Miriam , Wileman Thomas
Published: January 2003

The African swine fever (ASF) virus polyprotein pp220 is processed at Gly-Gly-X sites by a virally encoded SUMO-like protease to produce matrix proteins p150, p37, p34, and p14. Four Gly-Gly-X sites are used to produce the matrix proteins, but the polyprotein contains an additional 15 sites potentially recognized by the protease. This study shows that cleavage occurs at many, if not all, Gly-Gly-X sites, and at steady state, p150 and p34 are minor products of processing. Significantly, only the final structural proteins, p150 and p34, were found in mature virions, suggesting that there is a mechanism for excluding incorrectly processed forms. ASF virus is assembled on the cytoplasmic face of the endoplasmic reticulum, and the distribution of pp220 products between membranes and cytosol was studied. Incorrectly processed forms of p34 were recovered from both the cytosol and membrane fractions. Interestingly, p34 was only detected in the membrane fraction, and of the many processed forms bound to membranes, only p34 was protected from trypsin, suggesting envelopment. The majority of the incorrectly processed forms of p150 were recovered from the cytosol. Again, the correct product of processing, p150, was selectively recruited to membranes. Sucrose density centrifugation showed that membrane-associated forms of p34 and p150 assembled into large structures suggestive of a viral matrix, while cytosolic and/or incorrectly processed forms of pp220 did not. Taken together, these results suggest that association with cellular membranes is important for regulating the correct processing of pp220 and the packaging of matrix proteins into virions.
Role of Plasma Membrane Lipid Microdomains in Respiratory Syncytial Virus Filament Formation
Authors: McCurdy Lewis H. , Graham Barney S.
Published: January 2003

The fusion protein (F) of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the envelope glycoprotein responsible for the characteristic cytopathology of syncytium formation. RSV has been shown to bud from selective areas of the plasma membrane as pleomorphic virions, including both filamentous and round particles. With immunofluorescent microscopy, we demonstrated evidence of RSV filaments incorporating the fusion protein F and colocalizing with a lipid microdomain-specific fluorescent dye, 1,1-dihexadecyl-3,3,3,3-tetramethylindocarbocyanine perchlorate. Western blot analysis of Triton X-100 cold-extracted membrane fractions confirmed the presence of RSV proteins within the lipid microdomains. RSV proteins also colocalized with cellular proteins associated with lipid microdomains, caveolin-1, and CD44, as well as with RhoA, a small GTPase. ADP-ribosylation of RhoA by
Clostridium botulinum
exotoxin inactivated RhoA signaling and resulted in the absence of RSV-induced syncytia despite no significant change in viral titer. We demonstrated an overall decrease in both the number and length of the viral filaments and a shift in the localization of F to nonlipid microdomain regions of the membrane in the presence of C3 toxin. This suggests that the selective incorporation of RSV proteins into lipid microdomains during virus assembly may lead to critical interactions of F with cellular proteins, resulting in microvillus projections necessary for the formation of filamentous virus particles and syncytium formation. Thus, manipulation of membrane lipid microdomains may lead to alterations in the production of viral filaments and RSV pathogenesis and provide a new pharmacologic target for RSV therapy.
Overlapping Motifs (PTAP and PPEY) within the Ebola Virus VP40 Protein Function Independently as Late Budding Domains: Involvement of Host Proteins TSG101 and VPS-4
Authors: Licata Jillian M. , Simpson-Holley Martha , Wright Nathan T. , Han Ziying , Paragas Jason , Harty Ronald N.
Published: January 2003

The VP40 protein of Ebola virus can bud from mammalian cells in the form of lipid-bound, virus-like particles (VLPs), and late budding domains (L-domains) are conserved motifs (PTAP, PPxY, or YxxL; where “x” is any amino acid) that facilitate the budding of VP40-containing VLPs. VP40 is unique in that potential overlapping L-domains with the sequences PTAP and PPEY are present at amino acids 7 to 13 of VP40 (PTAPPEY). L-domains are thought to function by interacting with specific cellular proteins, such as the ubiquitin ligase Nedd4, and a component of the vacuolar protein sorting (vps) pathway, tsg101. Mutational analysis of the PTAPPEY sequence of VP40 was performed to understand further the contribution of each individual motif in promoting VP40 budding. In addition, the contribution of tsg101 and a second member of the vps pathway, vps4, in facilitating budding was addressed. Our results indicate that (i) both the PTAP and PPEY motifs contribute to efficient budding of VP40-containing VLPs; (ii) PTAP and PPEY can function as L-domains when separated and moved from the N terminus (amino acid position 7) to the C terminus (amino acid position 316) of full-length VP40; (iii) A VP40-PTAP/tsg101 interaction recruits tsg101 into budding VLPs; (iv) a VP40-PTAP/tsg101 interaction recruits VP40 into lipid raft microdomains; and (v) a dominant-negative mutant of vps4 (E228Q), but not wild-type vps4, significantly inhibited the budding of Ebola virus (Zaire). These results provide important insights into the complex interplay between viral and host proteins during the late stages of Ebola virus budding.
Binding of the Hepatitis C Virus E2 Glycoprotein to CD81 Is Strain Specific and Is Modulated by a Complex Interplay between Hypervariable Regions 1 and 2
Authors: Roccasecca RosaMaria , Ansuini Helenia , Vitelli Alessandra , Meola Annalisa , Scarselli Elisa , Acali Stefano , Pezzanera Monica , Ercole Bruno Bruni , McKeating Jane , Yagnik Asutosh , Lahm Armin , Tramontano Anna , Cortese Riccardo , Nicosia Alfredo
Published: January 2003

The envelope glycoprotein E2 of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the target of neutralizing antibodies and is presently being evaluated as an HCV vaccine candidate. HCV binds to human cells through the interaction of E2 with the tetraspanin CD81, a putative viral receptor component. We have analyzed four different E2 proteins from 1a and 1b viral isolates for their ability to bind to recombinant CD81 in vitro and to the native receptor displayed on the surface of Molt-4 cells. A substantial difference in binding efficiency between these E2 variants was observed, with proteins derived from 1b subtypes showing significantly lower binding than the 1a protein. To elucidate the mechanism of E2-CD81 interaction and to identify critical regions responsible for the different binding efficiencies of the E2 variants, several mutants were generated in E2 protein regions predicted by computer modeling to be exposed on the protein surface. Functional analysis of these E2 derivatives revealed that at least two distinct domains are responsible for interaction with CD81. A first segment centered around amino acid residues 613 to 618 is essential for recognition, while a second element including the two hypervariable regions (HVRs) modulates E2 receptor binding. Binding inhibition experiments with anti-HVR monoclonal antibodies confirmed this mapping and supported the hypothesis that a complex interplay between the two HVRs of E2 is responsible for modulating receptor binding, possibly through intramolecular interactions. Finally, E2 proteins from different isolates displayed a profile of binding to human hepatic cells different from that observed on Molt-4 cells or isolated recombinant CD81, indicating that additional factors are involved in viral recognition by target liver cells.