bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynactin Is Required for Coordinated Bidirectional Motility, but Not for Dynein Membrane Attachment
Authors: Haghnia Marjan , Cavalli Valeria , Shah Sameer B. , Schimmelpfeng Kristina , Brusch Richard , Yang Ge , Herrera Cheryl , Pilling Aaron , Goldstein Lawrence S.B.
Published: March 2007

Transport of cellular and neuronal vesicles, organelles, and other particles along microtubules requires the molecular motor protein dynein ( Mallik and Gross, 2004 ). Critical to dynein function is dynactin, a multiprotein complex commonly thought to be required for dynein attachment to membrane compartments ( Karki and Holzbaur, 1999 ). Recent work also has found that mutations in dynactin can cause the human motor neuron disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( Puls et al., 2003 ). Thus, it is essential to understand the in vivo function of dynactin. To test directly and rigorously the hypothesis that dynactin is required to attach dynein to membranes, we used both a Drosophila mutant and RNA interference to generate organisms and cells lacking the critical dynactin subunit, actin-related protein 1. Contrary to expectation, we found that apparently normal amounts of dynein associate with membrane compartments in the absence of a fully assembled dynactin complex. In addition, anterograde and retrograde organelle movement in dynactin deficient axons was completely disrupted, resulting in substantial changes in vesicle kinematic properties. Although effects on retrograde transport are predicted by the proposed function of dynactin as a regulator of dynein processivity, the additional effects we observed on anterograde transport also suggest potential roles for dynactin in mediating kinesin-driven transport and in coordinating the activity of opposing motors ( King and Schroer, 2000 ).
Superoxide Flux in Endothelial Cells via the Chloride Channel-3 Mediates Intracellular Signaling
Authors: Hawkins Brian J. , Madesh Muniswamy , Kirkpatrick C. J. , Fisher Aron B.
Published: March 2007

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been implicated in both cell signaling and pathology. A major source of ROS in endothelial cells is NADPH oxidase, which generates superoxide (O2.−) on the extracellular side of the plasma membrane but can result in intracellular signaling. To study possible transmembrane flux of O2.−, pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells were preloaded with the O2.−-sensitive fluorophore hydroethidine (HE). Application of an extracellular bolus of O2.−resulted in rapid and concentration-dependent transient HE oxidation that was followed by a progressive and nonreversible increase in nuclear HE fluorescence. These fluorescence changes were inhibited by superoxide dismutase (SOD), the anion channel blocker DIDS, and selective silencing of the chloride channel-3 (ClC-3) by treatment with siRNA. Extracellular O2.−triggered Ca2+release in turn triggered mitochondrial membrane potential alterations that were followed by mitochondrial O2.−production and cellular apoptosis. These “signaling” effects of O2.−were prevented by DIDS treatment, by depletion of intracellular Ca2+stores with thapsigargin and by chelation of intracellular Ca2+. This study demonstrates that O2.−flux across the endothelial cell plasma membrane occurs through ClC-3 channels and induces intracellular Ca2+release, which activates mitochondrial O2.−generation.
A Conditional Yeast E1 Mutant Blocks the Ubiquitin–Proteasome Pathway and Reveals a Role for Ubiquitin Conjugates in Targeting Rad23 to the Proteasome
Authors: Ghaboosi Nazli , Deshaies Raymond J.
Published: March 2007

E1 ubiquitin activating enzyme catalyzes the initial step in all ubiquitin-dependent processes. We report the isolation of uba1-204, a temperature-sensitive allele of the essential Saccharomyces cerevisiae E1 gene, UBA1. Uba1-204 cells exhibit dramatic inhibition of the ubiquitin–proteasome system, resulting in rapid depletion of cellular ubiquitin conjugates and stabilization of multiple substrates. We have employed the tight phenotype of this mutant to investigate the role ubiquitin conjugates play in the dynamic interaction of the UbL/UBA adaptor proteins Rad23 and Dsk2 with the proteasome. Although proteasomes purified from mutant cells are intact and proteolytically active, they are depleted of ubiquitin conjugates, Rad23, and Dsk2. Binding of Rad23 to these proteasomes in vitro is enhanced by addition of either free or substrate-linked ubiquitin chains. Moreover, association of Rad23 with proteasomes in mutant and wild-type cells is improved upon stabilizing ubiquitin conjugates with proteasome inhibitor. We propose that recognition of polyubiquitin chains by Rad23 promotes its shuttling to the proteasome in vivo.
Single‐Blind and Double‐Blind Randomized Controlled Trials of Palmtherapy®, an Alternative Medical Approach, for Anxiety before Cardiac Catheterization
Authors: Blaer Yossef , Jafari Jamal , Podberezsky Anna , David Tamar , Reizin Leonardo , Benjamin Jonathan
Published: March 2007

Alternative medicine is widely used, but lacks consensus regarding its amenability to scientific investigation. Anxiety increases morbidity and mortality in ischemic heart disease. We performed two studies of Palmtherapy®, an alternative treatment, for anxiety before cardiac catheterization. In the first study, patients were randomized to receive pressure at particular points on the palm, or at incorrect locations, for about 50 min, while the therapist conversed with them. In the second study, the conversation was conducted by a second, ‘blind’ investigator. In both studies, patients and nurses, all blind to treatment assignment, completed visual analog scale and National Institute of Mental Health measures of anxiety, respectively. Twenty‐three subjects completed study 1, and 17 completed study 2. In study 1, palm therapy was superior to sham therapy for both outcome measures. In study 2, palm therapy was superior for self‐reported anxiety, but not for nurses’ assessments of anxiety. Future studies should attempt to separate possible mechanistic effects of Palmtherapy® from therapist‐related variables. Whether alternative medicine deserves to be studied at all remains controversial. Palmtherapy® may offer anxiolytic benefit without the harm attributable to drugs.
Antidiabetes and Anti‐Obesity Activity of Lagerstroemia speciosa
Authors: Klein Guy , Kim Jaekyung , Himmeldirk Klaus , Cao Yanyan , Chen Xiaozhuo
Published: March 2007

The leaves of Lagerstroemia speciosa (Lythraceae), a Southeast Asian tree more commonly known as banaba, have been traditionally consumed in various forms by Philippinos for treatment of diabetes and kidney related diseases. In the 1990s, the popularity of this herbal medicine began to attract the attention of scientists worldwide. Since then, researchers have conducted numerous in vitro and in vivo studies that consistently confirmed the antidiabetic activity of banaba. Scientists have identified different components of banaba to be responsible for its activity. Using tumor cells as a cell model, corosolic acid was isolated from the methanol extract of banaba and shown to be an active compound. More recently, a different cell model and the focus on the water soluble fraction of the extract led to the discovery of other compounds. The ellagitannin Lagerstroemin was identified as an effective component of the banaba extract responsible for the activity. In a different approach, using 3T3‐L1 adipocytes as a cell model and a glucose uptake assay as the functional screening method, Chen et al. showed that the banaba water extract exhibited an insulin‐like glucose transport inducing activity. Coupling HPLC fractionation with a glucose uptake assay, gallotannins were identified in the banaba extract as components responsible for the activity, not corosolic acid. Penta‐O‐galloyl‐glucopyranose (PGG) was identified as the most potent gallotannin. A comparison of published data with results obtained for PGG indicates that PGG has a significantly higher glucose transport stimulatory activity than Lagerstroemin. Chen et al. have also shown that PGG exhibits anti‐adipogenic properties in addition to stimulating the glucose uptake in adipocytes. The combination of glucose uptake and anti‐adipogenesis activity is not found in the current insulin mimetic drugs and may indicate a great therapeutic potential of PGG.
Model of Welfare Capitalism? The United States Rubber Company in Southeast Asia, 1910–1942
Authors: Yacob Shakila
Published: March 2007

Welfare capitalism, the management ethos adopted by American business leaders in the early twentieth century, emphasizes the role of business rather than trade unions or government in taking care of its workers. This article focuses on the reasons why the United States Rubber Company (USRC), one of the four largest U.S. rubber manufacturers, promoted welfare capitalism at its rubber plantations on the east coast of Sumatra and Malaya between 1910 and 1942. In addition, this study assesses the development of USRC's system of welfare in the areas of housing, profit sharing, pension plans, health care, and recreation. This article argues that USRC's intention was not to forestall unionization (the intention of U.S.-based companies in adopting welfare capitalism), as union formation in Southeast Asia during that period was very unlikely, but to overcome labor shortages and high turnover rates and to ensure labor stability. With reduced labor costs, the availability of financial resources allowed for technical innovations and R & D, which ultimately would lead to increased productivity.
The Next Best Thing to Getting Married: Partnerships among the Jewelry Manufacturers in the Providence/Attleboro Area during the Nineteenth Century
Authors: Kim Duol
Published: March 2007

This study aims at enhancing our understanding of how industrial conditions affect the choice of a firm's ownership structure. The Providence/Attleboro area was a center of jewelry production during the nineteenth century. Because of the differentiated nature of the product, the Providence/Attleboro jewelers needed to promote their products among the wholesalers in distant markets. These geographical and industrial conditions motivated the entrepreneurs to organize partnerships for ameliorating informational asymmetries and for mobilizing the capital required to achieve economies of scale in sales and production.
The Indispensable Service of Banks: Commercial Transactions, Industry, and Banking in Revolutionary Mexico
Authors: Gómez-Galvarriato Aurora , Recio Gabriela
Published: March 2007

Revolutions have important social, political, and economic consequences with which entrepreneurs have to cope to keep their businesses going. This may involve high transaction costs due to the violence that emerges as a result of armed conflicts. In this article we examine the effect that the Mexican Revolution (1910-1920) had on the banking sector and ultimately on bank clients, since revolutionary policies forced most banks to close their doors from 1915 to 1921. By focusing on a major textile firm, the Compañía Industrial Veracruzana, S.A., we observe that companies used nonchartered banks, which spread in the absence of government regulation, and foreign financial institutions, so that daily business operations could continue amidst the revolutionary upheavals.
Evaluating the free school breakfast initiative in Wales: methodological issues
Authors: Tapper Katy , Murphy Simon , Moore Laurence , Lynch Rebecca , Clark Rachel
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report findings on an initiative set up by The Welsh Assembly Government to provide free, healthy breakfasts to primary school children throughout Wales.

Design/methodology/approach

The research employed a cluster randomised controlled trial design with 58 schools in South, West and North Wales. Quantitative measures were taken at baseline, four months and 12 months.

Findings

With the injection of more money and effective services it was found that the free school breakfast initiative could help improve health and social inequalities.

Originality/value

This paper provides some of the background to the initiative, describes the evaluation and highlights some of the key methodological issues that arose during the course of the research.
Food product development
Authors: Mattsson Jan , Helmersson Helge
Published: March 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to illustrate a new method to cluster consumer attribute preferences and to transform spontaneously written texts by consumers about a certain favourite food product (hamburger) into distinct preference clusters of attributes.

Design/methodology/approach

A new way of finding significant clusters of consumer attribute preferences is developed by means of a new text analytical approach (Pertex) and a multi‐step two‐sided cluster analysis procedure.

Findings

Clear linkages were ascertained between four respondent and four preference clusters for the two key product dimensions taste and ingredients of the hamburger.

Research limitations/implications

Clusters expressed were in close conformity to the conception of the standard hamburger. Only one student sample (N=100) was used.

Practical implications

A new and practical method to transform written text into distinct consumer preferences (segments) was tested using a multi‐step cluster analysis to support food innovation in the food industry.

Originality/value

Product dimensions were integrated in a meaningful way into distinct preference clusters that could be used to segment consumers when innovating new food products.
Functional biscuits and coronary heart disease risk factors
Authors: Boobier Wyndham James , Steven Baker Julien , Hullen Dave , Graham Michael R. , Davies Bruce
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to biomedically assess biscuits designed to reduce selected risk factors for coronary heart disease, in particular serum homocysteine and glucose.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, one of the countries leading jam sandwhich biscuits was significantly modified, with particular attention being paid to sugar, fat and salt concentration. A traditional biscuit was converted to a functional food by the addition of vitamin B12, Folic Acid, Vitamin C and Prebiotic fibre, while reducing salt and sugar.

Findings

The results obtained from a clinical trial demonstrated that serum homocysteine and blood glucose were significantly decreased (P < 0.05) when the modified product and the traditional biscuit were compared. These findings confirm that a health promoting biscuit can be produced commercially, and have similar organoleptic properties as the standard high fat, high sugar and salt product.

Practical implications

These findings could have significant implications to the biscuit industry, as producers of products traditionally associated with poor health. This study shows that biscuit formulations can be modified significantly, and that the resultant dough yield biscuits which can be produced under commercial conditions, be organoleptically acceptable and reduce risk factors associated with coronary heart disease.

Originality/value

Moving into the twenty‐first century, there is no reason why biscuit consumption should be associated with poor health. Recipe and processing modifications are possible, thanks to new and innovative raw materials and an understanding of dough rheology.
Study of some anionic surfactants as pour point depressants additives for a waxy gas oil
Authors: Khidr T.T. , Azzam E.M.S. , Mutawaa Sahar S. , Omar A.M.A.
Published: March 2007

Purpose

To prepare surfactants and use as pour point depressants for a waxy gas oil.

Design/methodology/approach

Some anionic surfactants (Calcium O, P.dioctyl benzene sulphonate and calcium hexadecyl benzene sulphonate) were prepared in the laboratory. The physicochemical characteristics were investigated. The adsorption behavior of these surfactants at air/solution and oil/solution interfaces were investigated by measuring the surface tension and interfacial tension as functions of concentration.

Findings

The surface parameters and free energies of micellization and adsorption confirm the decreasing and improving of pour point by prepared surfactants. It is found that there is a good relation between surface properties especially interfacial tension of the prepared surfactants and their efficiency in depressing the pour point. Also, the results indicating that anionic surfactants can be improved pour point of waxy gas oil.

Originality/value

Addresses long‐standing problem in the petroleum industry.
Particles distribution on wear behavior of an Al‐Gr(p) composite
Authors: Gomez‐Garcia C. , Rodríguez M.E. , Castaño V.M. , Herrera A.
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to know the effect of graphite particles distribution on wear behavior of ingots of an aluminium‐graphite, Al‐Gr(p), composite.

Design/methodology/approach

By SEM and optical microscope, it was observed that the graphite particles were entrapped and placed at different regions of the aluminium ingots as they were cooled under three different cooling rate during solidification, mantaining 4.5 wt% of graphite content. Size of particles entrapped, were measured at three different region of the ingots.

Findings

Smaller size of graphite particles distribution were found in regions where the cooling rate was higher, while bigger size were located in regions where the cooling rate was lower, this phenomenon could improve the wear resistant performance found in ingots containing smaller graphite particles.

Research limitations/implications

A suitable dispersion of small graphite particles entrapped into a fine structure of the aluminium‐graphite composite as a result of high cooling rate while casting, could be extended to another processes for future researches.

Practical implications

This material could be used in sliding mechanical pieces improved by a uniform dispersion of small particles inside.

Originality/value

The improvement of wear behavior could be succeeded by dispersion of smaller graphite particles into the ingots, influenced by a higher cooling rate, and maintaining the weight fraction content of reinforcement.
An investigation on the lubrication mechanisms of the mechanical radial face seals – I: general theory
Authors: Ceyhun Sabir Emel , Koç Erdem
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The main purpose of the study is to develop a theoretical model being capable of analysing the sealing and hydrodynamic‐hydrostatic lubrication mechanisms occuring between the mating surfaces of mechanical face seals.

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical model developed is based on solving the governing basic lubrication equation (Reynolds differential equation) by employing a finite difference method. The main lubrication machanism is assumed to be converging‐diverging wedge which is formed by the relative tilt of the sealing surfaces. The non‐dimensional Reynolds equation was solved to give the pressure distribution and consequently the load and moment acting on the movable seal ring. The aim of the model is to predict the non‐dimensional hydrodynamic and hydrostatic load carrying capacity of the system.

Findings

Theoretical model developed is capable of estimating the hydrodynamic and hydrostatic behaviour of mechanical radial face seals. It is shown that a converging‐diverging wedge mechanism produces hydrodynamic pressure which in turn maintains the seperation of the surfaces. The tilt appears to be caused mainly by bearing misalignment. It has been shown that hydrostatic load or pressure centre is an important parameter for load balance of moving seal ring. It is easy and useful to calculate the dimensional parameters defined taking into account the different geometrical and operating parameters.

Originality/value

This paper offers a quick and easy opportunity to examine the hydrodynamic behaviour of movable seal ring of a mechanical face seal and provides a considerable contribution to the lubrication and sealing research area. With the general theoretical model developed, the behaviour of the seal ring can be modelled and estimated.
Towards a pedagogy of inspirational parables
Authors: Pio Edwina , Haigh Neil
Published: March 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to present a rationale for a learning and assessment activity involving students in the construction of inspirational parables for diversity management within a university business studies programme. The paper reviews processes from teacher and student perspectives, describes initial outcomes and foreshadows further exploration and research.

Design/methodology/approach

In small groups, students prepared a booklet that included their inspirational parables on ethnic minority migrant women in the workplace, justifications for the parables and a bibliography of related diversity management literature. A group presentation on the booklet was also required. Assessment criteria related to parable content, references, booklet and oral presentation and represented 30 percent of the overall course assessment.

Findings

Students' informal feedback and the teacher's observations indicate an overall positive response, with students highlighting surprise at their own creativity and the time they readily invested in the task, the enjoyment it gave them and their view that the task merited more weighting. Issues arising from the teacher's observations include group and self‐assessment options, time allocation and the possible influence on students of the teacher's ethnicity.

Originality/value

While there is increasing interest in the use of stories for teaching and learning purposes, most attention has focused on teacher rather than student story telling. Story writing by students to help them develop and demonstrate understandings, has received much less attention and there are few precedents for the parable story form being used for these two purposes in a university education context.
Students' self‐evaluation and reflection (part 2): an empirical study
Authors: Cambra‐Fierro Jesus , Cambra‐Berdún Jesus
Published: March 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to demonstrate that students' self‐evaluations contribute to improving academic results and life skills.

Design/methodology/approach

Taking as reference a group of previously validated scales (part 1: measurement), a causal model is developed. Hypotheses are tested through the structural equations methodology by using the EQS software.

Findings

Advice, students' motivation, responsibility and self‐concept are elements that influence the self‐evaluation process. A direct and positive relation between self‐evaluation and good academic results is also demonstrated.

Research limitations/implications

This research has been carried out in the Spanish pre‐university context. Possible generalisations to different contexts need to consider their specific characteristics.

Practical implications

Because self‐evaluation processes contribute to improving academic results and developing students' autonomy, teachers and tutors must develop them, perhaps through the elements which have been shown to be antecedents of such processes.

Originality/value

No previous research has either developed or tested these hypotheses. The findings reinforce other studies, but now considering the pre‐university educational context, when students can critically develop this skill.
The sustainability of enterprise education: a case study in Hong Kong
Authors: Wai Mui Yu Christina , Wing Yan Man Thomas
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a case of an increasingly popular enterprise education programme in Hong Kong called the Teen Entrepreneurs Competition (TEC) and to examine its sustainability in different dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

Post‐activity evaluation feedback was obtained from the participants and the stakeholders of the activity. Three systematic research studies were also conducted for investigating the impact of entrepreneurial characteristics and social interaction on the participants throughout TEC.

Findings

Participants and stakeholders generally provided positive feedback towards TEC. The research findings also showed that TEC was able to draw a positive impact on developing the participants' entrepreneurial characters and in turn made TEC sustainable on the provision of an enterprise education programme in the local community.

Research limitations/implications

It is suggested that the sustainability of TEC is attributed to three dimensions, namely, opportunities for individual comprehensive understanding, context for collaborative learning, and network for institutional support.

Practical implications

Suggestions on how to further strengthen the sustainability of enterprise education programmes through these three dimensions are provided, for example, maximising individuals' practical experience, improving the quality of collaboration and developing a closer working relationship with various stakeholders.

Originality/value

Enterprise education is recognised to have a significant influence on the development of entrepreneurial knowledge, skills and attitudes for youths. In order to widen the impact of enterprise education in society, it is necessary to sustain such enterprise education programmes over an extended period of time.
Comprehensive education or vocational training for the unemployed?
Authors: Stenberg Anders
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effects of comprehensive education as compared with vocational training by using Swedish data on a large sample of unemployed individuals aged 25 to 55.

Design/methodology/approach

The Adult Education Initiative (AEI) in Sweden was introduced in the autumn of 1997 and generated a massive expansion of subsidized adult comprehensive education. Participants in the vocational part of Labour Market Training (LMT) are used as a comparison group. The relative program effects are obtained by way of OLS fixed effects estimates, using register data of annual wage earnings from 1991 to 2003.

Findings

There are weaker earnings effects of comprehensive education relative to vocational training. However, insignificant coefficient results are obtained for individuals aged 43‐55 and also for females who prior to enrolment had experienced two‐year upper secondary schooling or resided in a municipality associated with a low level of average educational attainment.

Research limitations/implications

Identification of true underlying effects rely on fixed effects estimates. Using non‐experimental data, one would ideally have access to an instrumental variable, which could explain program choice without being correlated with wage earnings.

Practical implications

The results add to our knowledge on the relative average returns to general and specific human capital accumulation. In this specific case, more careful targeting of participants in the AEI could have improved the relative efficiency of the program.

Originality/value

This study offers guidance to labour market policy makers on how an appropriate mix is attained between vocational training and comprehensive education.
Gender‐job satisfaction differences across Europe
Authors: Kaiser Lutz C.
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The primary objective of this study is to test whether gender differences in job satisfaction are assignable to variations in labour market and welfare state regimes in the light of gender‐related labour market modernization.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data derived from the European Household Community Panel (EHCP) and covering 14 member states of the European Union the study constructs a series of summary statistics to lay the foundation for the analysis. An ordinary ordered‐probit regression model is employed to test for the (non‐) emergence of a gender‐job satisfaction paradox.

Findings

The results suggest that objective (socio‐economic and institutional) determinants of labour market status and subjective (assessed and evaluated) perspectives are mutually complementary. The more restrictive the labour market access and process is for women, the more likely a gender‐job satisfaction paradox is to emerge in any country. Equal opportunities for women and men (such as those observed in Scandinavian countries) indicate that the gender‐job satisfaction paradox does not appear anymore due to a fading‐out process over past decades, which was driven by appropriate institutional labour market interventions.

Originality/value

The gender‐job satisfaction paradox was confirmed for the UK, whereas little has been done to test this hypothesis on a cross‐national basis. This investigation thus fills the gap in the empirical literature.
Robots meet machine tools at the IMTS party
Authors: Bloss Richard
Published: March 2007

Purpose

To review the International Manufacturing Technology Show in Chicago with emphasis on innovative robot applications on display.

Design/methodology/approach

In‐depth interviews were conducted with exhibitors of robots as well as system integrators who apply robots to specific categories of applications.

Findings

Robots are becoming smarter with more integrated capabilities such as vision and autonomous part picking from random bin locations. They are becoming more economical, faster and more application specific. Robot system integrators are creating more efficient solutions for customers to consider.

Originality/value

Users who investigated robot solutions in the past and found they did not meet applications requirements should revisit robotics. Robot builders and system integrators are providing more suitable solutions that can better address application needs in a more cost‐effective manner than ever before.
Novel concepts for a planetary surface exploration rover
Authors: Bouloubasis Antonios , McKee Gerard , Tolson Peter
Published: March 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to address some of the needs of present and upcoming rover designs, and introduces novel concepts incorporated in a planetary surface exploration rover design that is currently under development.

Design/methodology/approach

The Multitasking Rover (MTR) is a highly re‐configurable system that aims to demonstrate functionality that will cover many of the current and future needs such as rough‐terrain mobility, modularity and upgradeability. lt comprises a surface mobility platform which is highly re‐configurable, which offers centre of mass re‐allocation and rough terrain stability, and also a set of science/tool packs – individual sub‐systems encapsulated in packs which the rover picks up, transports and deploys.

Findings

Early testing of the suspension system suggests exceptional performance characteristics.

Originality/value

Principles employed in the design of the MTR can be used in future rover systems to reduce associated mission costs and at the same time provide multiples the functionality.
A series of pneumatic glass‐wall cleaning robots for high‐rise buildings
Authors: Zhang Houxiang , Zhang Jianwei , Wang Wei , Liu Rong , Zong Guanghua
Published: March 2007

Purpose

This paper presents the design of climbing robots for glass‐wall cleaning.

Design/methodology/approach

A systemic analysis of the basic functions of a glass‐wall cleaning system is given based on the research of working targets. Then the constraints for designing a glass‐wall cleaning robot are discussed. The driving method, the attachment principle, mechanical structure and unique aspects of three pneumatic robots named Sky Cleaners follow. In the end a summary of the main special features is given. All three climbing robots are tested on site.

Findings

Our groups spent several years in designing and developing a series of robots named Sky Cleaners which are totally actuated by pneumatic cylinders and sucked to the glass walls with vacuum grippers in mid‐air. It was found that they can meet the requirements of glass‐wall cleaning.

Research limitation/implications

The air source, cleaning liquid and control signals should be provided by the supporting vehicle stationed on the ground. Even if the robots are intelligent, the suitable working height is below 50 m because the weight of the hoses has to be taken into account when the robots work in mid‐air.

Practical implications

The cleaning robotic systems can avoid workers presence in a hazardous environment and realize an automatic cleaning, furthermore reduce operation costs and improve the technological level and productivity of the service industry in the building maintenance.

Originality/value

Sky Cleaner robots can move and do cleaning on the plane glass wall or the special curve wall with a small angle between the glasses. The first two prototypes are mainly used for research and the last one is a real product designing for cleaning the glass surface of Shanghai Science and Technology Museum.
Communication methods, information sharing, supplier development and performance
Authors: Carr Amelia S. , Kaynak Hale
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extend understanding of supplier development theory by investigating the relationships among communication methods, information sharing within a firm, information sharing between firms, and support aimed at supplier development and the effects these relationships have on firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from a random sample of 231 firms are used to test hypothesized relationships by employing structural equation modeling.

Findings

The main findings indicate that traditional communication methods, information sharing within a firm, and information sharing between firms, and supplier development are significant factors for improving a buyer's performance though their indirect and direct effects on firm performance vary.

Research limitations/implications

The model tested in this study should be reinvestigated by employing better developed measures of advanced communication methods. Furthermore, when investigating the relationship between supplier development and firm performance, future studies should include mode of supplier development approach – reactive versus proactive – as a variable.

Practical implications

The findings of this study provide insights into what makes supplier development activities effective for practitioners.

Originality/value

Although communication/information sharing has emerged in previously published studies as a critical factor in developing suppliers, an integrated research model that investigates the relationships among communication media, information sharing, supplier development activities, and buying firms' performance has not been offered. This is the gap filled by this study.
Towards a design process for materials supply systems
Authors: Johansson Eva
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The objective of this research is to develop a structure for a materials supply systems (MSSs) design process to be used during product development projects (PDPs).

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on a qualitative study at a first tier supplier in the automotive industry. Empirical data were gathered over the course of one year and analysed by means of a previously developed MSSs design model and the company's product development phases.

Findings

A structure for a MSSs design process has been developed, based on the following four phases: planning, concept development, system‐level design and detail design.

Research limitations/implications

Future research could further develop the structure discussed in this paper and complement it with engineering tools for use during the design process.

Practical implications

The results underline the importance of a MSSs design process and emphasise that such a process should cover activities at an early stage of PDPs. Moreover, the necessity of coordinating the specifications of the various materials flows and evaluating the entire MSS before becoming absorbed by detailed design issues is highlighted.

Originality/value

This paper complements the rapidly growing literature on concurrent engineering by emphasising the importance of integrating the materials supply aspects at an early stage of PDPs and designing the MSS in integration with the product and the production system.
Last‐mile supply chain efficiency: an analysis of learning curves in online ordering
Authors: Kull Thomas J. , Boyer Ken , Calantone Roger
Published: March 2007

Purpose

As companies extend supply chains via direct delivery to consumers, supply chain efficiency depends upon the usability of the online ordering system. The purpose of this paper is to focus on customer order cycle efficiency gains through the “learnability” of web sites.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyzes empirical data using nonlinear regression from seven firms and over 4,000 customers to examine how order time – an important performance metric – changes within an online grocery ordering environment.

Findings

The evidence supports various forms of power‐law learning for web‐based ordering (i.e. the first few orders involve substantial learning). However, significant differences exist between web sites, and a portion of the ordering time may be irreducible.

Research limitations/implications

The research lends insight into how web sites influence last‐mile supply chain efficiency via differing learning rates in the order cycle. Perceptual measures were used in order to assess customer beliefs.

Practical implications

Online order entry serves as the starting point for many supply chain actions. Managers can use this research to benchmark their web site performance and subsequently take action to improve the efficiency and service of their supply chain.

Originality/value

The empirically validated model allows researchers and web‐based businesses to utilize the provided learning rate measure as an ease of use performance metric.
Interview: a retrospective account of Faye Crosby's life and research
Authors: Schmukler Kristina R. , Franco‐Zamudio Jamie L.
Published: March 2007

Purpose

Over the past 40 years Faye Crosby's research, teaching, and mentorship has touched and influenced students, researchers, and academic institutions. Faye's early work focused on gender inequity and relative deprivation, providing her with insight into a surprising phenomenon – the denial of personal discrimination. Armed with the knowledge that individuals are often unaware of personal discrimination, Faye's later work focused on advocating for institutional protections in the form of affirmative action. The focus of this interview is to simultaneously pay homage to Faye's innovative research while highlighting the ways that Faye's motivations, inspirations, and personal experiences have influenced her body of work.

Design/methodology/approach

This article is based on an interview with Faye Crosby by the authors in October of 2006.

Findings

Faye Crosby's work in the field of social psychology has influenced a great deal of social justice inquiry, including research related to gender equity, discrimination, relative deprivation, mentoring, and affirmative action. She describes herself as a social psychologist and a feminist empiricist. She asserts that her greatest contribution to the field is her ability to organize and categorize research findings in novel ways, elucidating new themes. Faye has published over 150 articles, books, and chapters both individually and in collaboration.

Originality/value

This retrospective account updates previous interviews of the prominent scholar, Faye Crosby, whose life work has been dedicated to social justice and equal access to opportunities.
Leadership, trustworthiness, and the mediating lens
Authors: Caldwell Cam , Hayes Linda A.
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to propose and empirically test hypotheses concerning the influence of leadership behaviors on interpersonal perceptions of trustworthiness.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey research is employed to assess the dimensions of leadership behavior and dimensions of trustworthiness and to determine the relationships among the leadership behavior dimensions and trustworthiness dimensions.

Findings

Factor analyses support previous research advocating three dimensions of leadership behavior (relationship development, resource utilization, and image management) and three dimensions of trustworthiness (ability, benevolence, and integrity). A structural model (LISREL), testing the relationship among the three leadership behavior dimensions and the three trustworthiness dimensions, shows that image management influences perceptions of all three dimensions of trustworthiness, and relationship development influences the benevolence dimension of trustworthiness. Using analysis of variance, the research finds that younger individuals view leaders as being more trustworthy than older individuals do.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of this study include a survey research methodology and a sample of university students.

Practical implications

There are consequences to leaders' actions. This study shows that perceptions of trustworthiness can be influenced by leadership behavior.

Originality/value

Past research suggests that trustworthiness is an important component of a successful organization. This research supports the hypothesis that leadership behavior affects perceptions of trustworthiness, which is important to researchers and managers interested in how the behaviors of leaders influence other areas of the organization.
Making sense through coaching
Authors: Du Toit Angélique
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The paper sets out to consider the value of coaching to the sensemaking process. It aims to demonstrate how coaching enhances sensemaking and seeks to describe coaching as a sensemaking activity.

Design/methodology/approach

The objectives are achieved by exploring the literature of both coaching and sensemaking with the purpose of demonstrating the mutually supportive nature of coaching and sensemaking.

Findings

By analysing sensemaking and coaching activities, the paper aims to demonstrate that coaching greatly supports and enhances the quality of the sensemaking activities of the individual.

Research limitations/implications

Coaching as an academic discipline is still in its infancy and lacking in sound empirical research. It would be value for future research activities to focus on the sensemaking the individual engages with during the coaching process.

Practical implications

As mentioned above, sound academic research is necessary in order to understand the nature of coaching. This paper goes some way in exploring both coaching as a sensemaking process and also how coaching fundamentally supports the sensemaking process the individual engages in.

Originality/value

Coaching has not been explored in relation to sensemaking nor the value that coaching brings to sensemaking. Exploring coaching from a sensemaking perspective helps create a deeper understanding of what takes place within the coaching relationship.
Government “demarketing” as viewed by its target audience
Authors: Wall A.P.
Published: March 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to assess the strategic rationale and the effectiveness of government “demarketing” campaigns in the areas of smoking, binge drinking and private car usage.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of 257 young people in Northern Ireland was carried out, seeking their opinions on the effectiveness of current demarketing campaigns.

Findings

Government demarketing initiatives are generally seen as ineffective, except for the banning of smoking in enclosed public places. Punishing disorderly behaviour caused by excess alcohol and making private driving more expensive are thought to achieve a certain degree of effectiveness.

Practical implications

The UK Government has put considerable effort into demarketing campaigns of this kind, with limited success. The need to rethink strategy and implementation is particularly urgent with regard to drinking behaviour and its consequences, because the government appears to be sending out mixed messages through its communications and its actions. Although continued pressure on smokers appears to be bringing results, the effectiveness of individual initiatives is variable. Lessons may be transferable to other areas of demarketing specifically and social marketing in general.

Originality/value

The paper reports the views of young people, who are the main targets of most campaigns of this nature, and are future smokers, drinkers and drivers if they have not established those behaviour patterns already.
Customer community and co‐creation: a case study
Authors: Rowley Jennifer , Kupiec‐Teahan Beata , Leeming Edward
Published: March 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to provide insights into the development and management of a customer community, informing product innovation and engaging customers in co‐creation of a consumption experience.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of the state of current knowledge about co‐production, co‐creation and customer communities is followed by discussion of the case study methodology. The case history of a leading player in the UK and international “sportkiting” market focuses on product innovation and customer‐community development. Discussion reflects in more detail on the lessons from the case for application of the principles in practice.

Findings

The case company's innovative product development strategy provides the catalyst for co‐creation of a customer experience. Its marketing actions extend beyond product development and innovation to actively co‐creating experiences with customers, fostering a sense of community among users, facilitating communication within that community, acting on the feedback, and continuously developing and maintaining the community relationship.

Research limitations/implications

The company's marketing strategy can be summed up as “customer community leadership”. This paradigm proposes a new role for businesses in sectors where there is a potential to develop and engage communities. It provides a context for the effective facilitation of customer knowledge management, within which marketing intelligence plays a significant role. The findings offer scope for further research into the nature of this phenomenon and its relevance to co‐creation in other industry sectors, and into numerous aspects of the processes and impacts associated with customer communities.

Originality/value

The case contributes to the literature of co‐creation, demonstrating how it has been achieved through a marketing strategy and marketing mix in a particular customer community.