bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Reevaluation of the Role of the Heterotrimeric G Protein in Coupling Light Responses in Arabidopsis
Authors: Jones Alan M. , Ecker Joseph R. , Chen Jin-Gui
Published: April 2003

Previous studies implicated the involvement of a heterotrimeric G protein in red (R) and far-red (FR) light signal transduction, but these studies utilized pharmacological or gain-of-function approaches and, therefore, are indirect tests. Here, we reexamine the role of the single canonical heterotrimeric G protein in R and FR control of hypocotyl growth using a loss-of-function approach. Single- and double-null mutants for the GPA1, AGB1genes encoding the alpha and beta subunit of the heterotrimeric G protein, respectively, have wild-type sensitivity to R and FR. Ectopic overexpression of wild type and a constitutive active form of the alpha subunit and of the wild-type beta subunit had no effect that can be unequivocally attributed to altered R and FR responsiveness. These results preclude a direct role for the heterotrimeric G complex in R and FR transduction in Arabidopsis leading to growth control in the hypocotyl.
Changes in Photoperiod or Temperature Alter the Functional Relationships between Phytochromes and Reveal Roles for phyD and phyE
Authors: Halliday Karen J. , Whitelam Garry C.
Published: April 2003

The phytochromes are one of the means via which plants obtain information about their immediate environment and the changing seasons. Phytochromes have important roles in developmental events such as the switch to flowering, the timing of which can be crucial for the reproductive success of the plant. Analysis of phyBmutants has revealed that phyB plays a major role in this process. We have recently shown, however, that the flowering phenotype of thephyB monogenic mutant is temperature dependent. A modest reduction in temperature to 16°C was sufficient to abolish thephyB mutant early-flowering phenotype present at 22°C. Using mutants null for one or more phytochrome species, we have now shown that phyA, phyD, and phyE, play greater roles with respect to phyB in the control of flowering under cooler conditions. This change in the relative contributions of individual phytochromes appears to be important for maintaining control of flowering in response to modest alterations in ambient temperature. We demonstrate that changes in ambient temperature or photoperiod can alter the hierarchy and/or the functional relationships between phytochrome species. These experiments reveal new roles for phyD and phyE and provide valuable insights into how the phytochromes help to maintain development in the natural environment.
Molecular Interactions between the Specialist HerbivoreManduca sexta (Lepidoptera, Sphingidae) and Its Natural Host Nicotiana attenuata: V. Microarray Analysis and Further Characterization of Large-Scale Changes in Herbivore-Induced mRNAs
Authors: Hui Dequan , Iqbal Javeed , Lehmann Katja , Gase Klaus , Saluz Hans Peter , Baldwin Ian T.
Published: April 2003

We extend our analysis of the transcriptional reorganization that occurs when the native tobacco, Nicotiana attenuata, is attacked by Manduca sexta larvae by cloning 115 transcripts by mRNA differential display reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and subtractive hybridization using magnetic beads (SHMB) from the M. sexta-responsive transcriptome. These transcripts were spotted as cDNA with eight others, previously confirmed to be differentially regulated by northern analysis on glass slide microarrays, and hybridized with Cy3- and Cy5-labeled probes derived from plants after 2, 6, 12, and 24 h of continuous attack. Microarray analysis proved to be a powerful means of verifying differential expression; 73 of the cloned genes (63%) were differentially regulated (in equal proportions from differential display reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and SHMB procedures), and of these, 24 (32%) had similarity to known genes or putative proteins (more from SHMB). The analysis provided insights into the signaling and transcriptional basis of direct and indirect defenses used against herbivores, suggesting simultaneous activation of salicylic acid-, ethylene-, cytokinin-, WRKY-, MYB-, and oxylipin-signaling pathways and implicating terpenoid-, pathogen-, and cell wall-related transcripts in defense responses. These defense responses require resources that could be made available by decreases in four photosynthetic-related transcripts, increases in transcripts associated with protein and nucleotide turnover, and increases in transcripts associated with carbohydrate metabolism. This putative up-regulation of defense-associated and down-regulation of growth-associated transcripts occur against a backdrop of altered transcripts for RNA-binding proteins, putative ATP/ADP translocators, chaperonins, histones, and water channel proteins, responses consistent with a major metabolic reconfiguration that underscores the complexity of response to herbivore attack.
Molecular Interactions between the Specialist HerbivoreManduca sexta (Lepidoptera, Sphingidae) and Its Natural Host Nicotiana attenuata. VI. Microarray Analysis Reveals That Most Herbivore-Specific Transcriptional Changes Are Mediated by Fatty Acid-Amino Acid Conjugates,
Authors: Halitschke Rayko , Gase Klaus , Hui Dequan , Schmidt Dominik D. , Baldwin Ian T.
Published: April 2003

Evidence is accumulating that insect-specific plant responses are mediated by constituents in the oral secretions and regurgitants (R) of herbivores, however the relative importance of the different potentially active constituents remains unclear. Fatty acid-amino acid conjugates (FACs) are found in the R of many insect herbivores and have been shown to be necessary and sufficient to elicit a set of herbivore-specific responses when the native tobacco plantNicotiana attenuata is attacked by the tobacco hornworm,Manduca sexta. Attack by this specialist herbivore results in a large transcriptional reorganization in N. attenuata, and 161 genes have been cloned from previous cDNA differential display-polymerase chain reaction and subtractive hybridization with magnetic beads analysis. cDNAs of these genes, in addition to those of 73 new R-responsive genes identified by cDNA-amplified fragment-length polymorphism display of R-elicited plants, were spotted on polyepoxide coated glass slides to create microarrays highly enriched in Manduca spp.- and R-induced genes. With these microarrays, we compare transcriptional responses in N. attenuata treated with R from the two most damaging lepidopteran herbivores of this plant in nature, M. sexta and Manduca quinquemaculata, which have very similar FAC compositions in their R, and with the two most abundant FACs in Manduca spp. R. More than 68% of the genes up- and down-regulated by M. sexta R were similarly regulated byM. quinquemaculata R. A majority of genes up-regulated (64%) and down-regulated (49%) by M. sexta R were similarly regulated by treatment with the two FACs. In contrast, few genes showed similar transcriptional changes after H2O2- and R-treatment. These results demonstrate that the two most abundant FACs in Manduca spp. R can account for the majority ofManduca spp.-induced alterations of the wound response of N. attenuata.
Accumulation of Ferrous Iron in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Influence of CO2 and Anaerobic Induction of the Reversible Hydrogenase
Authors: Semin Boris K. , Davletshina Lira N. , Novakova Alla A. , Kiseleva Tat'yana Y. , Lanchinskaya Victoriya Y. , Aleksandrov Anatolii Y. , Seifulina Nora , Ivanov Il'ya I. , Seibert Michael , Rubin Andrei B.
Published: April 2003

The green alga, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, can photoproduce molecular H2 via ferredoxin and the reversible [Fe]hydrogenase enzyme under anaerobic conditions. Recently, a novel approach for sustained H2 gas photoproduction was discovered in cell cultures subjected to S-deprived conditions (A. Melis, L. Zhang, M. Forestier, M.L. Ghirardi, M. Seibert [2000] Plant Physiol 122: 127–135). The close relationship between S and Fe in the H2-production process is of interest because Fe-S clusters are constituents of both ferredoxin and hydrogenase. In this study, we used Mössbauer spectroscopy to examine both the uptake of Fe by the alga at different CO2concentrations during growth and the influence of anaerobiosis on the accumulation of Fe. Algal cells grown in media with57Fe(III) at elevated (3%, v/v) CO2concentration exhibit elevated levels of Fe and have two comparable pools of the ion: (a) Fe(III) with Mössbauer parameters of quadrupole splitting = 0.65 mm s−1 and isomeric shift = 0.46 mm s−1 and (b) Fe(II) with quadrupole splitting = 3.1 mm s−1 and isomeric shift = 1.36 mm s−1. Disruption of the cells and use of the specific Fe chelator, bathophenanthroline, have demonstrated that the Fe(II) pool is located inside the cell. The amount of Fe(III) in the cells increases with the age of the algal culture, whereas the amount of Fe(II) remains constant on a chlorophyll basis. Growing the algae under atmospheric CO2 (limiting) conditions, compared with 3% (v/v) CO2, resulted in a decrease in the intracellular Fe(II) content by a factor of 3. IncubatingC. reinhardtii cells, grown at atmospheric CO2 for 3 h in the dark under anaerobic conditions, not only induced hydrogenase activity but also increased the Fe(II) content in the cells up to the saturation level observed in cells grown aerobically at high CO2. This result is novel and suggests a correlation between the amount of Fe(II) cations stored in the cells, the CO2 concentration, and anaerobiosis. A comparison of Fe-uptake results with a cyanobacterium, yeast, and algae suggests that the intracellular Fe(II) pool in C.reinhardtii may reside in the cell vacuole.
New Insight into Phaeodactylum tricornutum Fatty Acid Metabolism. Cloning and Functional Characterization of Plastidial and Microsomal Δ12-Fatty Acid Desaturases,
Authors: Domergue Frédéric , Spiekermann Patricia , Lerchl Jens , Beckmann Christoph , Kilian Oliver , Kroth Peter G. , Boland Wilhem , Zähringer Ulrich , Heinz Ernst
Published: April 2003

In contrast to 16:3 plants like rapeseed (Brassica napus), which contain α-linolenic acid (18:3Δ  9,12,15) and hexadecatrienoic acid (16:3Δ  7,10,13) as major polyunsaturated fatty acids in leaves, the silica-less diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum contains eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5Δ  5,8,11,14,17) and a different isomer of hexadecatrienoic acid (16:3Δ  6,9,12). In this report, we describe the characterization of two cDNAs having sequence homology to Δ12-fatty acid desaturases from higher plants. These cDNAs were shown to code for a microsomal and a plastidial Δ12-desaturase (PtFAD2 and PtFAD6, respectively) by heterologous expression in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) andSynechococcus, respectively. Using these systems in the presence of exogenously supplied fatty acids, the substrate specificities of the two desaturases were determined and compared with those of the corresponding rapeseed enzymes (BnFAD2 and BnFAD6). The microsomal desaturases were similarly specific for oleic acid (18:1Δ  9), suggesting that PtFAD2 is involved in the biosynthesis of EPA. In contrast, the plastidial desaturase from the higher plant and the diatom clearly differed. Although the rapeseed plastidial desaturase showed high activity toward the ω9-fatty acids 18:1Δ  9 and 16:1Δ  7, in line with the fatty acid composition of rapeseed leaves, the enzyme of P. tricornutum was highly specific for 16:1Δ  9. Our results indicate that in contrast to EPA, which is synthesized in the microsomes, the hexadecatrienoic acid isomer found in P. tricornutum(16:3Δ  6,9,12) is of plastidial origin.
Volatile Ester Formation in Roses. Identification of an Acetyl-Coenzyme A. Geraniol/Citronellol Acetyltransferase in Developing Rose Petals
Authors: Shalit Moshe , Guterman Inna , Volpin Hanne , Bar Einat , Tamari Tal , Menda Naama , Adam Zach , Zamir Dani , Vainstein Alexander , Weiss David , Pichersky Eran , Lewinsohn Efraim
Published: April 2003

The aroma of roses (Rosa hybrida) is due to more than 400 volatile compounds including terpenes, esters, and phenolic derivatives. 2-Phenylethyl acetate, cis-3-hexenyl acetate, geranyl acetate, and citronellyl acetate were identified as the main volatile esters emitted by the flowers of the scented rose var. “Fragrant Cloud.” Cell-free extracts of petals acetylated several alcohols, utilizing acetyl-coenzyme A, to produce the corresponding acetate esters. Screening for genes similar to known plant alcohol acetyltransferases in a rose expressed sequence tag database yielded a cDNA (RhAAT1) encoding a protein with high similarity to several members of the BAHD family of acyltransferases. This cDNA was functionally expressed inEscherichia coli, and its gene product displayed acetyl-coenzyme A:geraniol acetyltransferase enzymatic activity in vitro. The RhAAT1 protein accepted other alcohols such as citronellol and 1-octanol as substrates, but 2-phenylethyl alcohol andcis-3-hexen-1-ol were poor substrates, suggesting that additional acetyltransferases are present in rose petals. The RhAAT1 protein is a polypeptide of 458 amino acids, with a calculated molecular mass of 51.8 kD, pI of 5.45, and is active as a monomer. TheRhAAT1 gene was expressed exclusively in floral tissue with maximum transcript levels occurring at stage 4 of flower development, where scent emission is at its peak.
Reduction of Cholesterol and Glycoalkaloid Levels in Transgenic Potato Plants by Overexpression of a Type 1 Sterol Methyltransferase cDNA
Authors: Arnqvist Lisa , Dutta Paresh C. , Jonsson Lisbeth , Sitbon Folke
Published: April 2003

Transgenic potato (Solanum tuberosum cv Désirée) plants overexpressing a soybean (Glycine max) type 1 sterol methyltransferase (GmSMT1) cDNA were generated and used to study sterol biosynthesis in relation to the production of toxic glycoalkaloids. Transgenic plants displayed an increased total sterol level in both leaves and tubers, mainly due to increased levels of the 24-ethyl sterols isofucosterol and sitosterol. The higher total sterol level was due to increases in both free and esterified sterols. However, the level of free cholesterol, a nonalkylated sterol, was decreased. Associated with this was a decreased glycoalkaloid level in leaves and tubers, down to 41% and 63% of wild-type levels, respectively. The results show that glycoalkaloid biosynthesis can be down-regulated in transgenic potato plants by reducing the content of free nonalkylated sterols, and they support the view of cholesterol as a precursor in glycoalkaloid biosynthesis.
The Gluconeogenic Enzyme Phosphoenolpyruvate Carboxykinase in Arabidopsis Is Essential for Seedling Establishment
Authors: Rylott Elizabeth L. , Gilday Alison D. , Graham Ian A.
Published: April 2003

Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) catalyzes the conversion of oxaloacetate to phosphoenolpyruvate in the gluconeogenic production of sugars from storage oil in germinating oilseeds. Here, we present the results of analysis on PEPCK antisense Arabidopsis plants with a range of enzyme activities from 20% to 80% of wild-type levels. There is a direct correlation between enzyme activity and seedling establishment during early post-germinative growth, thus demonstrating the absolute requirement of PEPCK and gluconeogenesis in this process. Soluble sugar levels in the 35S-PCK1 antisense seedlings are reduced and seedling establishment can be rescued with an exogenous supply of sucrose. We observed an increase in the respiration of acetyl coenzyme A units released from fatty acid β-oxidation and a corresponding decrease in the production of sugars with decreasing enzyme activity in 2-d-old antisense seedlings. The 35S-PCK1 antisense lines have a more extreme phenotype when compared with Arabidopsis mutants disrupted in the glyoxylate cycle. We conclude that the 35S-PCK1antisense seedlings are compromised in the ability to use both storage lipid and storage protein through gluconeogenesis to produce soluble sugars.
Drought-Induced Changes in the Redox State of α-Tocopherol, Ascorbate, and the Diterpene Carnosic Acid in Chloroplasts of Labiatae Species Differing in Carnosic Acid Contents
Authors: Munné-Bosch Sergi , Alegre Leonor
Published: April 2003

To assess antioxidative protection by carnosic acid (CA) in combination with that of other low-molecular weight (M  r) antioxidants (α-tocopherol [α-T] and ascorbate [Asc]) in chloroplasts, we measured endogenous concentrations of these antioxidants, their redox states, and other indicators of oxidative stress in chloroplasts of three Labiatae species, differing in their CA contents, exposed to drought stress in the field. Damage to the photosynthetic apparatus was observed neither in CA-containing species (rosemary [Rosmarinus officinalis]) and sage [Salvia officinalis]) nor in CA-free species (lemon balm [Melissa officinalis]) at relative leaf water contents between 86% and 58%, as indicated by constant maximum efficiency of photosystem II photochemistry ratios and malondialdehyde levels in chloroplasts. The three species showed significant increases in α-T, a shift of the redox state of α-T toward its reduced state, and increased Asc levels in chloroplasts under stress. Lemon balm showed the highest increases in α-T and Asc in chloroplasts under stress, which might compensate for the lack of CA. Besides, whereas in rosemary and sage, the redox state of CA was shifted toward its oxidized state and the redox state of Asc was kept constant, lemon balm displayed a shift of the redox state of Asc toward its oxidized state under stress. In vitro experiments showed that both CA and Asc protect α-T and photosynthetic membranes against oxidative damage. These results are consistent with the contention that CA, in combination with other low-M  r antioxidants, helps to prevent oxidative damage in chloroplasts of water-stressed plants, and they show functional interdependence among different low-M  r antioxidants in chloroplasts.
Promoting collaboration in an international online learning community
Authors: Hudson Brian
Published: April 2003

This paper describes the background context of the International MSc in E‐Learning Multimedia and Consultancy. The programme aims to develop the profile of “problem solver”/team co‐ordinator at the interface of pedagogical, technological and organisational/cultural dimensions of development and these aims are reflected in the programme content. The origins of this development in a European Commission‐funded project are outlined. An overview of the programme design is provided that emphasises peer and formative assessment practices and also of the pedagogical approach that aims to foster group collaboration in international teams. The features and benefits of the programme are described and supported by feedback and commentary from participating students. Finally some reflections are offered on potential future developments and suggestions are made for further reading.
“Six sigma” techniques improve the quality of e‐learning
Authors: Little Bob
Published: April 2003

TATA Interactive Systems (TIS), which has one of the world’s largest teams for the design and development of custom‐built e‐learning solutions, is committed to achieving the most exacting quality standards. Towards the end of last year, TIS became the first company providing custom‐built e‐learning solutions to be assessed at level 5 on the capability maturity model (CMM) scale. The CMM is the most rigorous quality standard world‐wide and encompasses leading companies such as Boeing, Raytheon, IBM, NASA and Motorola. Its prestige and value – well‐known within the IT world – are beginning to be recognised within the e‐learning world too. One key component in TIS’s drive for consistent high quality is its application of “six sigma” techniques to its development and production processes. This is explored in the article, first by describing an “outside‐in” approach, then key concepts, project stages, changing business processes, a three‐step cycle and criteria or secrets for project success.
Action‐centred learning
Authors: Farrington Brian
Published: April 2003

Action‐centred learning (ACL) is a solution for enhancing the intellectual capital in a business. This article shows that ACL can be more effectively targeted by using metrics of excellence. The author’s company has developed cutting‐edge metrics to identify gaps of knowledge and skills and identify training needs – an academically very sound process based upon the author’s years of involvement in postgraduate academic work. The article focuses on how ACL has been used for the development of procurement staff, also shows how it can be applied in any functional area of a business and for executive development programmes. Provides examples to show its effectiveness for multi‐functional team development. Describes the diagnostic framework, client partnering, the costs, how the metrics are applied, and tailoring of the ACL to clients’ and participants’ specific needs. Feels ACL should be actively considered for inclusion in a training strategy because it offers a tailored, structured approach to self‐development.
How high‐tech Dictaphone salespeople use computers: a case study
Authors: DeCormier Ray A. , Quadrato Michael
Published: April 2003

Compared with their predecessors, today’s sales professionals have many more advanced technological tools available to them than ever. The age of computer automation has drastically impacted their lives. Most importantly, sales automation software has revolutionized the manual aspects of a suspecting and prospecting filing system (often referred to as a tickler file). In addition, the use of networks and access to Inter/intranets have bridged the gap between representatives operating in remote environments and their home office. This case study concentrates on these issues by focusing on Dictaphone Corporation’s sales organization’s use of current technology.
Supply chain collaboration: the key to value creation
Authors: Sahay B.S.
Published: April 2003

As global markets grow increasingly efficient, competition no longer takes place between individual businesses, but between entire supply chains. Collaboration can provide the competitive edge that enables all the business partners in a supply chain to prevail and grow. This paper presents a framework for customer‐supplier collaboration that facilitates effective and efficient supply chain operation. The paper reveals that the level of involvement of customers and suppliers differs across different supply chain processes and also across different sectors. While the involvement of customers is high in demand management and product development, the involvement of suppliers is high in transportation and inventory management processes. The paper also reveals that about 50 percent of the organizations surveyed indicate that suppliers and customers have little or virtually no role in the demand management, inventory management, and product development processes.
TQM modeling of the automobile manufacturing sector: a system dynamics approach
Authors: Khanna V.K. , Vat Prem , Shankar Ravi , Sahay B.S. , Gautam Ashwini
Published: April 2003

Despite total quality management (TQM) playing an important role in the survival and growth of the Indian automobile sector, India is still a player of little consequence in the global automobile production market. The paper identifies various dynamic interactions among the sub systems of TQM. The implications of these interactions have been captured using system dynamics modeling, which is based on causal relationship among different variables that constitute enablers and results. The model results have been discussed and validated based on a case study.
International vital statistics: a resource guide
Authors: Wang Chengzhi
Published: April 2003

While the concept of vital statistics is rich in meaning, standardization of these valuable data has eluded governments, intergovernmental organizations (IGOs), non‐governmental organizations (NGOs), and demographic researchers. Primarily due to discrepancies of sociopolitical systems and availability of resources, international vital statistics are diverse and variant in terms of vital classification and registration and data processing and reporting. That said, birth, death, marriage, and divorce data are generally included in reported vital statistics. In recent decades, research institutes, universities, IGOs particularly the United Nations (UN), and NGOs have been working hard to organize, collect, and disseminate vital statistics from developing countries. This article analytically presents an overview of global patterns of vital registrations and numerations. It examines the major resources of international vital statistics, including registers, surveys, and print and digital materials. This literature presents a selection of surveys, monographs, serials, periodicals, databases, portals, and homepages based on their relevancy to information and scholarship related to international vital statistics.
The creation of a German Language Children’s Literature Collection
Authors: Armstrong William W.
Published: April 2003

This article concerns the development of a German Language Children’s Literature Collection at Louisiana State University (LSU) that is used in conjunction with the German Language Program at LSU. The article discusses the rationale behind such a collection and provides the tools and selection criteria necessary to develop a successful collection. Also included are sample titles chosen using the process that is discussed during the course of the article.
Contemporary German literature: 20 authors you might want to collect
Authors: Allen Barbara F.H.
Published: April 2003

Discusses collection building of contemporary German belles‐lettres and introduces 20 contemporary German‐language writers of the younger generation, presenting their bio‐bibliographies. Librarians who are not already collecting these authors might consider expanding their German literature collections by adding some of the works listed.
A new flavor of spam: solicitation received as a patron book request
Authors: Suhr Karl
Published: April 2003

An exploration as to whether marketing by publishing companies by anonymously recommending titles for purchase actually influences library acquisitions.
FM: the professional interface
Authors: Grimshaw R.W.
Published: April 2003

The world‐wide growth of facilities management (FM) institutions with ambition to become recognised as professional gatekeepers raises issues about the claim of FM to be a profession. Does FM practice and conduct merit this designation? Using Nutt’s resource‐based approach to FM with its four “trails to the future”, the tensions that exist on the interface between the “business trail” and the “people trail” provide the context needed to discuss the nature of FM’s professional credentials. This paper examines this context and the factors that influence each side of this professional interface and the implications for the development of a successful FM profession in contemporary society.
Facilities design using a split departmental layout configuration
Authors: Gopalakrishnan B. , Weng Li , Gupta D.P.
Published: April 2003

A plant layout in the context of manufacturing facilities design consists of the production areas, manufacturing support areas and personnel areas. In facilities design, plant layout has been determined to be one of the most important elements in the effectiveness of systematic manufacturing operability. This paper describes the development of a split departmental plant layout generation system (LAYSPLIT) in the domain of facilities design to develop layouts that will minimize the material handling costs. The plant layout generation system consists of a data acquisition module, a pair‐wise departmental exchange module, a layout development module, and a graphical representation module. The approach used to develop the system using a split departmental method, and the characteristics of the system are outlined. The advantages of the developed system in terms of facilitating effective operations and increasing productivity in manufacturing environments are discussed. The results obtained from LAYSPLIT are compared with that produced by the MCRAFT system and discussed.
Approaching the care‐free building
Authors: Wood Brian
Published: April 2003

Alternative approaches to maintenance are facilitating a fresh look at design and operation of buildings. For some time, planned preventive maintenance has been the predominant paradigm, based on periodic condition surveys, predictions of future performance, and production of programmes of work. Advances in technology and management techniques have enabled more rapid responses and a focus on meeting user needs. Also there has been a growth of interest in sustainability and “saving the planet”. This paper examines the concepts presented by the author at the Brisbane conference of CIB W70. Suggests that designing and providing for today’s needs is difficult enough without trying to anticipate unknown futures. “Take therefore no thought for the morrow; for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself” (Matthew 6:34). Work stress could be reduced for facilities and maintenance managers by providing the “right” building – right design; right time; right place; nothing to worry about.
Information flow in automotive supply chains – present industrial practice
Authors: Childerhouse Paul , Hermiz Ramzi , Mason‐Jones Rachel , Popp Andrew , Towill Denis R.
Published: April 2003

The automotive industry acts as a barometer and flagship of the national economy. First tier suppliers are essential enablers in the success of the sector. Here we identify present practices concerning information flow as perceived by typical first tier suppliers. Observations are made via “top pain analysis” facing an individual supplier and “quick scan analysis” on a range of automotive value streams. Major information flow weaknesses encountered in real‐world value streams are highlighted. To conclude, we show the “well‐trodden path” established for performance improvement as enabled in real‐world supply chains.
Comparing relational database designing approaches: some managerial implications for database training
Authors: Yang Heng‐Li
Published: April 2003

This research conducted two experiments to understand the performance (correctness and efficiency) of novice database designers, and perceptions of ease of use and preferences of two approaches for modeling relational databases: the semantic‐oriented approach (top‐down, e.g. using the entity‐relationship model) and the logical‐oriented approach (bottom‐up, view decomposition, focusing only on the logical model). The findings indicated that in experiment 1, semantic‐oriented treatments performed better in a complex, written‐text case; logical‐oriented treatments were better in a simple, tabular‐form case. The same situation happened in experiment 2 though the differences were not statistically significant.
Flexible workflow integration: an object technology approach
Authors: Lau H.C.W. , Lee W.B. , Lau P.K.H.
Published: April 2003

Notes that a flexible workflow, which is characterized by its fast responsiveness in dealing with customer demands through the integration of various value chain activities, is fundamental to achieve efficient information interchange among companies. Flexible workflow integration, extends the scope of flexible workflow to cover a unified approach for integrating the relevant stages of operations, incorporates workflow design, workflow modeling and system assimilation, all of which are the integral components of such an approach. This paper proposes a system which possesses the features of reconfigurability and customizability, allowing the integration of workflow in a flexible way under an industrial environment. Describes the proposed methodology of this approach, which aims at achieving a seamless assimilation of workflow processes.
Business process flexibility: a driver for outsourcing
Authors: Sommer Rainer A.
Published: April 2003

Many organizations have implemented business process management solutions that are enabled by enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. More recently, organizations have focused their strategies on the additional benefits that are realizable by augmenting ERP with customer and supplier extensions. This paper focuses on the process integration issues that must be addressed when linking customers and suppliers to back‐office systems. Our hypothesis is that flexible process management, as required by modern customer/supplier relationships, are too costly to implement via traditional ERP solutions. Given that modern competitive advantage is measured in terms of business process flexibility, managers are faced with the daunting prospect of changing ERP configurations on a continuous basis. Such rapid process change requirements are beyond the financial capabilities of most companies, who prefer to leave a well‐tested configuration unchanged. How then are companies managing to deploy fast‐paced process change to support their new e‐business models? This paper describes the strategies that are being used to provide and maintain flexible eBusiness solutions.
Integrating industrial maintenance strategy into ERP
Authors: Nikolopoulos K. , Metaxiotis K. , Lekatis N. , Assimakopoulos V.
Published: April 2003

During the last decade, many companies have made large investments in the development and implementation of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. However, only few of these systems developed or installed have actually considered maintenance strategies. Maintenance is a complex process that is triggered by planned periodic repair (scheduled or planned maintenance), equipment breakdown or deterioration indicated by a monitored parameter (unplanned or emergency maintenance). This process requires planning, scheduling, monitoring, quality assurance and deployment of necessary resources (workshop, manpower, machines, equipment, tools, spare parts, materials). Proper design and integration of maintenance management into ERP systems enable enterprises to effectively manage their production planning and scheduling, as well as to analyze their maintenance history so as to carry out cost analysis and produce future projections of failure trends. The present work presents the design of an object‐oriented maintenance management model and its integration into an ERP system. The proposed model was designed towards the development of innovative industrial software regarding the optimum management of maintenance in a wide range of business areas.
Key obstacles to EDI success: from the US small manufacturing companies’ perspective
Authors: Jun Minjoon , Cai Shaohan
Published: April 2003

This study first empirically investigated key EDI obstacles experienced by US small manufacturing firms and, then, examined the relationships between the identified obstacles and their realized EDI benefits. This research revealed the following important findings. First, four dimensions of obstacles were derived: lack of managerial leadership/organizational readiness, lack of integration of EDI with internal/external computer systems, potential technical concerns, and security/legal concerns. Second, the lack of integration of EDI with internal/external computer systems turned out to be the most significant barrier to achieving the overall EDI success and three key EDI benefits, such as reduced administrative/transaction costs, improved information accuracy, and enhanced competitiveness in the marketplace. Third, the “lack of managerial leadership/organizational readiness” and “technical concerns” dimensions were found to be the second and third most significant obstacles to the reduction of administrative/transaction costs, respectively. Finally, the security/legal concerns dimension is considered a significant barrier to the overall EDI success.
A note on the using of accounting databases
Authors: Yang David C. , Vasarhelyi Miklos A. , Liu Caixing
Published: April 2003

This paper identifies potential data problems when using accounting databases. To examine data errors, two commonly used accounting databases, Value Line and Compustat, are compared in their qualitative and quantitative features. Data are examined using seven variables over a period of 11 years. Substantial data differences are found, most of which are attributable to definitional discrepancies and others to direct measurement error. Finally, recommendations for dealing with these problems are presented, to preparers of databases as well as standard setters.
Global managers: career orientation, career tracks, life‐style implications and career commitment
Authors: Suutari Vesa
Published: April 2003

The need for developing a cadre of global managers who are capable of working in international key positions wherever the needs of companies require it, has been widely stressed. Typically, the literature on international careers still deals with international assignments as “once‐in‐a‐lifetime” experiences and thus as a continuum from selecting the right candidates to repatriating them back to the home country. Less attention has been devoted to so‐called global managers who are committed to international careers for a longer term. In the present study, career orientations, career tracks, career commitment and life‐style implications of global managers are analysed. The results indicate that the majority of managers were originally interested in an international career. In their career they typically vary between positions abroad and in the home country instead of moving from one international assignment to another. Typically they consider the positive implications to override the negative implications of such a career with respect to both themselves and their families. As a result, they are often firmly committed to working in international environments in the future.
Going the extra mile: local managers and global effort
Authors: Reade Carol
Published: April 2003

The competitive international environment of the twenty‐first century is said to require greater collaboration between the multinational corporation (MNC) units, where local employees work toward global as well as local goals. What does it take to motivate local employees to go the extra mile for the sake of the MNC as a whole? This article reports the results of a study conducted among 317 local managers at the Indian and Pakistani subsidiaries of a British MNC in the consumer products industry. Organisational identification, or a psychological bonding with the organisation, was one of several factors contributing to the willingness of local managers to exert extra effort toward organisational goals. Implications of the findings are drawn for expatriate managers who work alongside local managers, and for international human resource management.
Expatriate stories: a vehicle of professional development abroad?
Authors: Glanz Lyn
Published: April 2003

Two‐thirds of European organisations are using informal briefings for expatriates. Why should expatriates place a heavy premium on such input, even when given in the stories of complete strangers? This article uses narrative method to examine expatriate experience, considering how stories enable expatriate understanding of novel environments. It considers briefly the importance of surprise in these situations and Weick's seven properties of sensemaking are used as a guideline for placing such expatriate stories in a sensemaking context. It further questions whether such stories might contribute to professional development by helping to bestow meaning for expatriates reflecting on their experiences.
Contextualising corporate governance
Authors: Rayman‐Bacchus Lez
Published: April 2003

Corporate governance systems aim to supervise and guide corporate behaviour. Information and communication technologies and in particular the Internet are providing unprecedented scope for innovative behaviour, both undesirable and useful, and as means for greater scrutiny and control. There are calls to reform the governance system, to make it more sensitive to what is seen as the primary purpose of the enterprise, that is the pursuit of economic prosperity through innovation. Moreover, any reform needs to develop a sensitivity to the social context of corporations, since this is the locus of attitudes, strategy practices and innovative capacity. Through exploiting ideas from cultural theory this paper proposes that corporations exhibit a limited but discernible number of ways of life or social realities, and these realities give meaning to the system of governance in use.
Audit and control of the use of the Internet for learning and teaching: issues for stakeholders in higher education
Authors: Broad Martin John , Matthews Marian , Shephard Kerry
Published: April 2003

The Internet is becoming more widely used by academic institutions to support the learning and teaching activities of students and academic staff. Whilst this is a very efficient mechanism, it is, arguably, important that there are adequate controls in place to ensure that the information is not libellous, defamatory, inaccurate, illegal or inappropriate. The interactivity of the Internet, the immediacy of access to its contents and the public accessibility to much of its information, however, do provide a different operating environment and therefore different audit and control issues arise. This paper discusses the roles and concerns of a range of stakeholders and suggests that the control mechanisms might be failing, or might not be adequately policed in practice. A number of examples are provided where the manner in which controls are put in place do not operate effectively, or where there may be control loops that are open‐ended. For each of the stakeholder groups that are identified, an account is given of the use to which the Internet is put and where regulation currently exists or may be desirable.
Strategizing networks of power and influence: the Internet and the struggle over contested space
Authors: Conway Steve , Combe Ian , Crowther David
Published: April 2003

Whilst some authors have portrayed the Internet as a powerful tool for business and political institutions, others have highlighted the potential of this technology for those vying to constrain or counter‐balance the power of organizations, through e‐collectivism and on‐line action. What appears to be emerging is a contested space that has the potential to simultaneously enhance the power of organizations, whilst also acting as an enabling technology for the empowerment of grass‐root networks. In this struggle, organizations are fighting for the retention of “old economy” positions, as well as the development of “new economy” power‐bases. In realizing these positions, organizations and institutions are strategizing and manoeuvering in order to shape on‐line networks and communications. For example, the on‐line activities of individuals can be contained through various technological means, such as surveillance, and the structuring of the virtual world through the use of portals and “walled gardens”. However, loose groupings of individuals are also strategizing to ensure there is a liberation of their communication paths and practices, and to maintain the potential for mobilization within and across traditional boundaries. In this article, the unique nature and potential of the Internet are evaluated, and the struggle over this contested virtual space is explored.
Stakeholder communication and the Internet in UK electricity companies
Authors: Cooper Stuart Martin
Published: April 2003

This paper is located within the corporate social reporting and stakeholder management literature. It is concerned with the use of the Internet as a way of communicating with stakeholders and the extent to which this communication is or is not two‐way. The evidence from the electricity industry in the UK is that the Internet is used but this use is selective and there is little true dialogue. It appears that the Internet provides an opportunity for greater corporate accountability in the future but whether this potential will be fulfilled is as yet unclear. Further research of a longitudinal nature is required to see how the Internet and more specifically corporate social or stakeholder reporting develops over time.
Strategy, accountability, e‐commerce and the consumer
Authors: Murphy Ruth , Bruce Margaret
Published: April 2003

Whilst increasing numbers of firms have launched themselves on the Internet, evidence suggests that they are doing this without any consideration of the strategic implications of developing, implementing or running a Web site. Adopting a strategic perspective, the aim of this paper is to critically examine the potential growth opportunities of on‐line retailers together with identification of consumer value a Web site may offer. In being accountable to their shareholders, these firms’ efforts must make a profit. For those wishing to recoup their investments in a short time frame, it seems that putting funds into e‐commerce firms is not recommended. Rather e‐commerce is for long term play.
Social audit and accountability in IT management
Authors: Mraovic´ Branka
Published: April 2003

A characteristic of the electronically operated global capitalism is that it is structured with the help of information networks integrating capital interests at the global level. The environment in which the selfness realises itself in the informational society is the global networks and computer communications, creating a wide range of virtual communities imposing a new type of logic – the network logic. In the new network landscape, information technologies, including the Internet, provide a technical support for a greater justice and equality on the virtual highways, thus affirming the voice of an individual. In this way, Foucault’s thesis that power relations are rooted into the entire network of society comes into realization. Corporate behaviour is in line with the dominant social norms, values and expectations, but at the same time it can be significantly modified by social pressures and changes. The same goes for the ways in which information technologies are implemented within organisations, which means that a continual evaluation of IT management programmes is needed, not only from the point of view of its technical effectiveness but also from the point of social audit and accountability in management.
A critical appraisal of customer satisfaction and e‐commerce
Authors: Chi Lin Chia
Published: April 2003

In this paper electronic commerce (e‐commerce) is examined in the context of the relationship between firms and their customers and the implications for organisational accountability. The technology of e‐commerce determines what can be offered to customers, but only customers determine which of those technologies will be accepted. The author argues that providing the highest customer delivered value by e‐commerce can be viewed as making a real contribution to customers, i.e. shopping through the Internet will be accepted by customers. Customer satisfaction is of critical importance when measuring perceived customer delivered value that is offered by e‐commerce. Three main scales which play a significant role in influencing customer satisfaction are customer need, customer value and customer cost.