bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuropeptide B-deficient mice demonstrate hyperalgesia in response to inflammatory pain
Authors: Kelly Michele A. , Beuckmann Carsten T. , Williams S. Clay , Sinton Christopher M. , Motoike Toshiyuki , Richardson James A. , Hammer Robert E. , Garry Mary G. , Yanagisawa Masashi
Published: June 2005

Neuropeptide B (NPB) and neuropeptide W (NPW) have been recently identified as ligands for the G protein-coupled receptor (GPR) 7 and GPR8. The precise
in vivo
role of this neuropeptide-receptor pathway has not been fully demonstrated. In this paper, we report that NPB-deficient mice manifest a mild adult-onset obesity, similar to that reported in GPR7-null mice. NPB-deficient mice also exhibit hyperalgesia in response to inflammatory pain. Hyperalgesia was not observed in response to chemical pain, thermal pain, or electrical stimulation. NPB-deficient mice demonstrated intact behavioral responses to pain, and learning from the negative reinforcement of electrical stimulation was unaltered. Baseline anxiety was also unchanged as measured in both the elevated plus maze and time spent immobile in a novel environment. These data support the idea that NPB is a factor in the modulation of responses to inflammatory pain and body weight homeostasis.
Differential induction of IgE-mediated anaphylaxis after soluble vs. cell-bound tolerogenic peptide therapy of autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Smith Cassandra E. , Eagar Todd N. , Strominger Jack L. , Miller Stephen D.
Published: June 2005

The ability of different forms of myelin peptides to induce tolerance for the treatment of preestablished murine experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a mouse model of multiple sclerosis, was evaluated. i.v. administration of myelin peptide-pulsed, ethylene carbodiimide-fixed syngeneic splenocytes, but not soluble myelin peptide monomers or oligomers, proved exceedingly effective at treating preestablished EAE, resulting in amelioration of disease progression. In addition to the lack of therapeutic efficacy of soluble peptide and peptide oligomer, administering them i.v. after the onset of clinical symptoms in many but not all peptide-induced EAE models led to a rapid-onset anaphylactic reaction characterized by respiratory distress, erythema, decreased body temperature, unresponsiveness, and, often, death. By using anti-IgE antibody treatments and mice with targeted mutations of the FcγRIII α-chain or the common γ-chain of FcεRI and FcγRI/III, we demonstrate that IgE crosslinking of FcεRI appears to be necessary and sufficient for myelin peptide-induced anaphylaxis. The implications of these findings to myelin peptide/protein tolerance strategies for the treatment of multiple sclerosis are discussed.
Frag1, a homolog of alternative replication factor C subunits, links replication stress surveillance with apoptosis
Authors: Ishii Hideshi , Inageta Taeko , Mimori Koshi , Saito Toshiyuki , Sasaki Hiroki , Isobe Masaharu , Mori Masaki , Croce Carlo M. , Huebner Kay , Ozawa Keiya , Furukawa Yusuke
Published: June 2005

We report the identification and characterization of a potent regulator of genomic integrity, mouse and human
FRAG1
gene, a conserved homolog of replication factor C large subunit that is homologous to the alternative replication factor C subunits Elg1, Ctf18/Chl12, and Rad24 of budding yeast.
FRAG1
was identified in a search for key caretaker genes involved in the regulation of genomic stability under conditions of replicative stress. In response to stress, Atr participates in the down-regulation of
FRAG1
expression, leading to the induction of apoptosis through the release of Rad9 from damaged chromatin during the S phase of the cell cycle, allowing Rad9–Bcl2 association and induction of proapoptotic Bax protein. We propose that the Frag1 signal pathway, by linking replication stress surveillance with apoptosis induction, plays a central role in determining whether DNA damage is compatible with cell survival or whether it requires cell elimination by apoptosis.
A talin-dependent LFA-1 focal zone is formed by rapidly migrating T lymphocytes
Authors: Smith Andrew , Carrasco Yolanda R. , Stanley Paula , Kieffer Nelly , Batista Facundo D. , Hogg Nancy
Published: June 2005

Cells such as fibroblasts and endothelial cells migrate through the coordinated responses of discrete integrin-containing focal adhesions and complexes. In contrast, little is known about the organization of integrins on the highly motile T lymphocyte. We have investigated the distribution, activity, and cytoskeletal linkage of the integrin lymphocyte function associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) on human T lymphocytes migrating on endothelial cells and on ligand intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). The pattern of total LFA-1 varies from low expression in the lamellipodia to high expression in the uropod. However, high affinity, clustered LFA-1 is restricted to a mid-cell zone that remains stable over time and over a range of ICAM-1 densities. Talin is essential for the stability and formation of the LFA-1 zone. Disruption of the talin–integrin link leads to loss of zone integrity and a substantial decrease in speed of migration on ICAM-1. This adhesive structure, which differs from the previously described integrin-containing attachments displayed by many other cell types, we have termed the “focal zone.”
Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α is a new target of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) in melanoma cells
Authors: Buscà Roser , Berra Edurne , Gaggioli Cédric , Khaled Mehdi , Bille Karine , Marchetti Barbara , Thyss Raphaël , Fitsialos Giorgos , Larribère Lionel , Bertolotto Corine , Virolle Thierry , Barbry Pascal , Pouysségur Jacques , Ponzio Gilles , Ballotti Robert
Published: June 2005

In melanocytes and melanoma cells α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH), via the cAMP pathway, elicits a large array of biological responses that control melanocyte differentiation and influence melanoma development or susceptibility. In this work, we show that cAMP transcriptionally activates Hif1a gene in a melanocyte cell–specific manner and increases the expression of a functional hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) protein resulting in a stimulation of Vegf expression. Interestingly, we report that the melanocyte-specific transcription factor, microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), binds to the Hif1a promoter and strongly stimulates its transcriptional activity. Further, MITF “silencing” abrogates the cAMP effect on Hif1a expression, and overexpression of MITF in human melanoma cells is sufficient to stimulate HIF1A mRNA. Our data demonstrate that Hif1a is a new MITF target gene and that MITF mediates the cAMP stimulation of Hif1a in melanocytes and melanoma cells. Importantly, we provide results demonstrating that HIF1 plays a pro-survival role in this cell system. We therefore conclude that the α-MSH/cAMP pathway, using MITF as a signal transducer and HIF1α as a target, might contribute to melanoma progression.
Early encounters of a nascent membrane protein
Authors: Houben Edith N.G. , Zarivach Raz , Oudega Bauke , Luirink Joen
Published: June 2005

An unbiased photo–cross-linking approach was used to probe the “molecular path” of a growing nascent Escherichia coli inner membrane protein (IMP) from the peptidyl transferase center to the surface of the ribosome. The nascent chain was initially in proximity to the ribosomal proteins L4 and L22 and subsequently contacted L23, which is indicative of progression through the ribosome via the main ribosomal tunnel. The signal recognition particle (SRP) started to interact with the nascent IMP and to target the ribosome–nascent chain complex to the Sec–YidC complex in the inner membrane when maximally half of the transmembrane domain (TM) was exposed from the ribosomal exit. The combined data suggest a flexible tunnel that may accommodate partially folded nascent proteins and parts of the SRP and SecY. Intraribosomal contacts of the nascent chain were not influenced by the presence of a functional TM in the ribosome.
Contrasting models of promiscuous gene expression by thymic epithelium
Authors: Gillard Geoffrey O. , Farr Andrew G.
Published: June 2005

Medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) express a broad spectrum of tissue- restricted self-antigens (TRAs), which are required for the development of central tolerance. A new study suggests that TRA expression is a specialized property of terminally differentiated mTECs. However, as discussed here, an alternative model—whereby TRA expression is regulated by conserved developmental programs active in developing mTECs—may be equally plausible.
Many roads, one destination for T cell progenitors
Authors: Petrie Howard T. , Kincade Paul W.
Published: June 2005

The thymus manufactures new T cells throughout life but contains no self-renewing potential. Instead, replenishment depends on recruitment of bone marrow–derived progenitors that circulate in the blood. Attempts to identify thymic-homing progenitors, and to assess the degree to which they are precommitted to the T cell lineage, have led to complex and sometimes conflicting results. As described here, this probably reflects the existence of multiple distinct types of T cell lineage progenitors as well as differences in individual experimental approaches.
Thomas Rivers and the EAE model
Authors: Van Epps Heather L.
Published: June 2005

In the early 1930s, Thomas Rivers and colleagues provided the first evidence that immune cells can attack the brain. Their simple experiments established what is now the most well-studied model of autoimmunity—the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of multiple sclerosis.
Genetic diversity predicts pathogen resistance and cell-mediated immunocompetence in house finches
Authors: Hawley Dana M , Sydenstricker Keila V , Kollias George V , Dhondt André A
Published: June 2005

Evidence is accumulating that genetic variation within individual hosts can influence their susceptibility to pathogens. However, there have been few opportunities to experimentally test this relationship, particularly within outbred populations of non-domestic vertebrates. We performed a standardized pathogen challenge in house finches (
Carpodacus mexicanus
) to test whether multilocus heterozygosity across 12 microsatellite loci predicts resistance to a recently emerged strain of the bacterial pathogen,
Mycoplasma gallisepticum
(MG). We simultaneously tested whether the relationship between heterozygosity and pathogen susceptibility is mediated by differences in cell-mediated or humoral immunocompetence. We inoculated 40 house finches with MG under identical conditions and assayed both humoral and cell-mediated components of the immune response. Heterozygous house finches developed less severe disease when infected with MG, and they mounted stronger cell-mediated immune responses to phytohaemagglutinin. Differences in cell-mediated immunocompetence may, therefore, partly explain why more heterozygous house finches show greater resistance to MG. Overall, our results underscore the importance of multilocus heterozygosity for individual pathogen resistance and immunity.
Differential sex allocation in sand lizards: bright males induce daughter production in a species with heteromorphic sex chromosomes
Authors: Olsson Mats , Wapstra Erik , Uller Tobias
Published: June 2005

In sand lizards (
Lacerta agilis
), males with more and brighter nuptial coloration also have more DNA fragments visualized in restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of their major histocompatibility complex class I loci (and, hence, are probably more heterozygous at these loci). Such males produce more viable offspring, with a particularly strong viability effect on daughters. This suggests that females should adjust both their reproductive investment and offspring sex ratio in relation to male coloration (i.e. differential allocation). Our results show that experimental manipulation of partner coloration in the wild results in significantly higher maternal effort and a 10% higher proportion of daughters than sons. This supports the hypothesis that females increase their maternal energetic expenditure and adjust their offspring sex ratio in response to high-quality partners. However, it also suggests that this has probably evolved through natural selection for increased offspring viability (primarily through production of daughters), rather than through increased mate attraction (e.g. sexy sons).
Re-entrant corner flows of Oldroyd-B fluids
Authors: Evans J.D
Published: June 2005

The method of matched asymptotic expansions is used to construct solutions for the planar steady flow of Oldroyd-B fluids around re-entrant corners of angles
π
/
α
(1/2≤
α
<1). Two types of similarity solutions are described for the core flow away from the walls. These correspond to the two main dominant balances of the constitutive equation, where the upper convected derivative of stress either dominates or is balanced by the upper convected derivative of the rate of strain. The former balance gives the incompressible Euler or inviscid flow equations and the latter balance the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations. The inviscid flow similarity solution for the core is that first derived by Hinch (Hinch 1993
J. Non-Newtonian Fluid Mech.
50
, 161–171) with a core stress singularity that depends upon the corner angle and radial distance as
O
(
r

−2(1−
α
)

) and a velocity behaviour that vanishes as
O
(
r

α
(3−
α
)−1

). Extending the analysis of Renardy (Renardy 1995
J. Non-Newtonian Fluid Mech.
58
, 83–39), this outer solution is matched to viscometric wall behaviour for both upstream and downstream boundary layers. This structure is shown to hold for the majority of the retardation parameter range. In contrast, the similarity solution associated with the Navier–Stokes equations has a velocity behaviour
O
(
r

λ

) where
λ
∈(0,1) satisfies a nonlinear eigenvalue problem, dependent upon the corner angle and an associated Reynolds number defined in terms of the ratio of the retardation and relaxation times. This similarity solution is shown to hold as an outer solution and is matched into stress boundary layers at the walls which recover viscometric behaviour. However, the matching is restricted to values of the retardation parameter close to the relaxation parameter. In this case the leading order core stress is Newtonian with behaviour
O
(
r

−(1−
λ
)

).
Organic matter dynamics control plant species coexistence in a tropical peat swamp forest
Authors: Shimamura Tetsuya , Momose Kuniyasu
Published: June 2005

We studied the relationship between the coexistence of tree species and the dynamics of organic matter in forests. A tropical peat swamp forest was selected as a model ecosystem, where abiotic factors, such as geological topography or parent rock types, are homogeneous and only biological processes create habitat heterogeneity. The temporal or spatial variation of the ground elevation of peat soils is mainly caused by changes in the balance between organic matter inputs to soils and decomposition, which is affected by the growth and death of influential trees. To clarify the processes of elevation dynamics, we measured the microtopography around some tree groups, estimated organic matter (in the form of litter and roots) in soils under three kinds of microtopographic conditions, measured decomposition rates and detected dominant species' shifting distribution patterns in different stages of growth in relation to the locations of tree groups creating specific microtopographic conditions. We found that growth or death of buttressed trees has the greatest effects on the rising or sinking of ground surfaces through changes in litter supply and root production. We discuss here the possibility of extending our model to other forest types.
Ontogeny of energy allocation reveals selective pressure promoting risk-taking behaviour in young fish cohorts
Authors: Biro Peter A , Post John R , Abrahams Mark V
Published: June 2005

Given limited food, prey fishes in a temperate climate must take risks to acquire sufficient reserves for winter and/or to outgrow vulnerability to predation. However, how can we distinguish which selective pressure promotes risk-taking when larger body size is always beneficial? To address this question, we examined patterns of energy allocation in populations of age-0 trout to determine if greater risk-taking corresponds with energy allocation to lipids or to somatic growth. Trout achieved maximum growth rates in all lakes and allocated nearly all of their acquired energy to somatic growth when small in early summer. However, trout in low-food lakes took greater risks to achieve this maximal growth, and therefore incurred high mortality. By late summer, age-0 trout allocated considerable energy to lipids and used previously risky habitats in all lakes. These results indicate that: (i) the size-dependent risk of predation (which is independent of behaviour) promotes risk-taking behaviour of age-0 trout to increase growth and minimize time spent in vulnerable sizes; and (ii) the physiology of energy allocation and behaviour interact to mediate growth/mortality trade-offs for young animals at risk of predation and starvation.
Speciation: more likely through a genetic or through a learned habitat preference?
Authors: Beltman J.B , Metz J.A.J
Published: June 2005

A problem in understanding sympatric speciation is establishing how reproductive isolation can arise when there is disruptive selection on an ecological trait. One of the solutions that has been proposed is that a habitat preference evolves, and that mates are chosen within the preferred habitat. We present a model where the habitat preference can evolve either by means of a genetic mechanism or by means of learning. Employing an adaptive-dynamical analysis, we show that evolution proceeds either to a single population of specialists with a genetic preference for their optimal habitat, or to a population of generalists without a habitat preference. The generalist population subsequently experiences disruptive selection. Learning promotes speciation because it increases the intensity of disruptive selection. An individual-based version of the model shows that, when loci are completely unlinked and learning confers little cost, the presence of disruptive selection most probably leads to speciation via the simultaneous evolution of a learned habitat preference. For high costs of learning, speciation is most likely to occur via the evolution of a genetic habitat preference. However, the latter only happens when the effect of mutations is large, or when there is linkage between genes coding for the different traits.
Skuas at penguin carcass: patch use and state-dependent leaving decisions in a top-predator
Authors: Hahn Steffen , Peter Hans-Ulrich , Bauer Silke
Published: June 2005

Foraging decisions depend not only on simple maximization of energy intake but also on parallel fitness-relevant activities that change the forager's ‘state’. We characterized patch use and patch leaving rules of a top-predatory seabird, the Brown Skua (Catharacta antarctica lonnbergi), which during its reproductive period in the Antarctic establishes feeding territories in penguin colonies. In feeding trials, we observed how skuas foraged at penguin carcass patches and analysed patch leaving decisions by incorporating the estimated state of foraging birds and patch availability.

Patches were exploited in a characteristic temporal pattern with exponentially decreasing remaining patch sizes (RPSs) and intake rates. Patch size decreased particularly fast in small compared to large patches and exploitation ended at a mean RPS of 47.6% irrespective of initial size.

We failed to identify a measure which those birds equalized upon patch departure from raw data. However, when accounting for the birds' state, we ascertained remaining patch size and intake rates to have the lowest variance at departure whereas food amount and feeding time remained variable. Statistical correction for territory size only and combined with state had lower effects, but remaining patch size remained the measure with lowest coefficient of variation. Thus, we could clearly reject a fixed-time or fixed-amount strategy for territorial skuas and rather suggest a state-dependent strategy that equalizes remaining patch size. Thus our results provide evidence that under natural conditions, territorial skuas adjust their foraging decision on actual energy requirements, i.e. offspring number and age.
Indirect effects and spatial scaling affect the persistence of multispecies metapopulations
Authors: Bonsall Michael B , Bull James C , Pickup Nicola J , Hassell Michael P
Published: June 2005

Quantifying the role of space and spatial scale on the population dynamics of ecological assemblages is a contemporary challenge in ecology. Here, we evaluate the role of metapopulation dynamics on the persistence and dynamics of a multispecies predator–prey assemblage where two prey species shared a common natural enemy (apparent competition). By partitioning the effects of increased resource availability from the effects of metapopulation structure on regional population persistence we show that space has a marked impact on the dynamics of apparent competition in multispecies predator–prey assemblages. Further, the role of habitat size and stochasticity are also shown to influence the dynamics and persistence of this multispecies interaction. The broader consequences of these processes are discussed.
Environmental quality and evolutionary potential: lessons from wild populations
Authors: Charmantier Anne , Garant Dany
Published: June 2005

An essential requirement to determine a population's potential for evolutionary change is to quantify the amount of genetic variability expressed for traits under selection. Early investigations in laboratory conditions showed that the magnitude of the genetic and environmental components of phenotypic variation can change with environmental conditions. However, there is no consensus as to how the expression of genetic variation is sensitive to different environmental conditions. Recently, the study of quantitative genetics in the wild has been revitalized by new pedigree analyses based on restricted maximum likelihood, resulting in a number of studies investigating these questions in wild populations. Experimental manipulation of environmental quality in the wild, as well as the use of naturally occurring favourable or stressful environments, has broadened the treatment of different taxa and traits. Here, we conduct a meta-analysis on recent studies comparing heritability in favourable versus unfavourable conditions in non-domestic and non-laboratory animals. The results provide evidence for increased heritability in more favourable conditions, significantly so for morphometric traits but not for traits more closely related to fitness. We discuss how these results are explained by underlying changes in variance components, and how they represent a major step in our understanding of evolutionary processes in wild populations. We also show how these trends contrast with the prevailing view resulting mainly from laboratory experiments onDrosophila. Finally, we underline the importance of taking into account the environmental variation in models predicting quantitative trait evolution.
An ecological ‘footprint’ of climate change
Authors: Walther Gian-Reto , Berger Silje , Sykes Martin T
Published: June 2005

Recently, there has been increasing evidence of species' range shifts due to changes in climate. Whereas most of these shifts relate ground truth biogeographic data to a general warming trend in regional or global climate data, we here present a reanalysis of both biogeographic and bioclimatic data of equal spatio-temporal resolution, covering a time span of more than 50 years. Our results reveal a coherent and synchronous shift in both species' distribution and climate. They show not only a shift in the northern margin of a species, which is in concert with gradually increasing winter temperatures in the area, they also confirm the simulated species' distribution changes expected from a bioclimatic model under the recent, relatively moderate climate change.
The Medawar Lecture 2004 The truth about science
Authors: Lipton Peter
Published: June 2005

The attitudes of scientists towards the philosophy of science is mixed and includes considerable indifference and some hostility. This may be due in part to unrealistic expectation and to misunderstanding. Philosophy is unlikely directly to improve scientific practices, but scientists may find the attempt to explain how science works and what it achieves of considerable interest nevertheless. The present state of the philosophy of science is illustrated by recent work on the ‘truth hypothesis’, according to which, science is generating increasingly accurate representations of a mind-independent and largely unobservable world. According to Karl Popper, although truth is the aim of science, it is impossible to justify the truth hypothesis. According to Thomas Kuhn, the truth hypothesis is false, because scientists can only describe a world that is partially constituted by their own theories and hence not mind-independent. The failure of past scientific theories has been used to argue against the truth hypothesis; the success of the best current theories has been used to argue for it. Neither argument is sound.
Acceptance by Irish consumers of a hypothetical GM dairy spread that reduces cholesterol
Authors: O’Connor Elaine , Cowan Cathal , Williams Gwilym , O’Connell John , Boland Maurice
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The objective of this study was to determine the level of acceptance by Irish consumers of a hypothetical genetically modified (GM) dairy spread that offered a specific, consumer‐oriented benefit, reducing cholesterol.

Design/methodology/approach

Some 300 spread consumers, representative in terms of age, gender, and socio‐economic group, completed a questionnaire. Conjoint, cluster and factor analyses were among the main methods used in the analysis.

Findings

The hypothetical GM product was rejected by a majority of Irish spread consumers. Cluster analysis identified four segments of consumers who differed in their purchase intentions towards such a product, depending on demographic factors, on whether they had their cholesterol level tested, on the attitudes that influenced their food choice and on their willingness to try different GM foods. Two segments were pro GM; the other two were anti.

Research limitations/implications

In terms of limitations, questions about GM foods are hypothetical and the conjoint design did not allow for interaction effects.

Originality/value

The results imply that a GM spread, conferring specific consumer benefits, could capture a share of the Irish market for dairy spreads. Such information is of value to both existing market players and companies considering opportunities in this market.
Corporate social responsibility: a case study of the UK's leading food retailers
Authors: Jones Peter , Comfort Daphne , Hillier David , Eastwood Ian
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer a preliminary case study exploration of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) issues being addressed and reported by the UK's leading food retailers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins with a short discussion of the characteristics and origins of CSR and this is followed by an outline of the structure of food retailing in the UK and of the ways in which the leading food retailers are driving innovation and development. The paper draws its empirical material from the CSR reports and information posted on the world wide web by the UK's ten leading food retailers.

Findings

The findings reveal that each of the leading food retailers has its own approach to CSR and that there are substantial variations in the nature and extent of the reporting process. That said, there is some common ground in reporting on a range of environmental issues, on sourcing, on employees, on customers and on the communities in which the retailers operate. The underlying message is that all food retailers believe that CSR is an integral element of their core business.

Originality/value

The paper provides an accessible review of CSR issues and agendas, as perceived by the UK's leading food retailers, and as such will interest academics and practitioners working in and on this sector of the retail marketplace.
Decision making as a simplification process: new conceptual perspectives
Authors: McKenna Richard J. , Martin‐Smith Brett
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Proposes to call for inclusion of alternative conceptual perspectives in decision making theory and practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopts a conceptual approach drawing on a diverse range of theories, and applying an illustrative example.

Findings

Finds that failure‐prone tactics and poor choice of leadership styles are minor causes of wrong decisions. Major causes are complexity and chaos in the environment, alternative psychological approaches, and political and ethical behaviours.

Practical implications

Decision science tools and leadership style do have applicability. However, their relevance and applicability are very much subjugated by the complexity, uncertainty and near unknowability of the decision‐making context. New conceptual perspectives are required.

Originality/value

Highlights the relevance of complex, chaotic environments and human behaviours to decision processes. Intends to encourage researchers to adopt new theoretical approaches and to help practitioners understand the reasons for decision failures.
A review of case studies publishing in Management Decision 2003‐2004
Authors: Cepeda Gabriel , Martin David
Published: June 2005

Purpose

This paper aims to specify a set of methodological stages to conduct case studies. It presents a graphical representation of these stages, describes how it assists management researchers to build theory from data gathered in the field, and outlines its value for achieving sound management research.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of nine cases published in Management Decision within the last two years (2003‐2004) is selected in order to illustrate these processes.

Findings

The paper's major contribution to research methodology is to specify a set of guidelines for conducting case studies and being explicit in how to apply a series of quality criteria for evaluating case studies in practice. The proposal not only helps to conduct research, but also documents the links between the research topics (in the conceptual framework), data (observations and interpretations in the field), data analysis (coding using the concepts in the conceptual framework and emergent themes) and the theory and knowledge accumulated through the research process.

Practical implications

The increasing use of case studies in management, and the desire to build theory from qualitative data, has highlighted a gap between existing proposals and the criteria for rigorous case studies. This contribution helps to close this gap by providing guidelines and the practical application of the quality principles. It assists management researchers working in these paradigms to build theory from qualitative data.

Originality/value

The proposal adds to the tools that management researchers can follow to produce sound research. This paper illustrates several case studies in order to show their epistemological approach, and to evaluate their quality level by applying our principles.
Using interpretive structural modelling in strategic decision‐making groups
Authors: Bolaños Ricardo , Fontela Emilio , Nenclares Alfredo , Pastor Pablo
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to apply interpretive structural modelling in the clarification of the perceptions of different individuals in a managerial group in order to improve group decision making. To limit conflict and increase shared knowledge in group decision making, there is a need to explain differences among group members at the cognitive level.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative research has suggested methods that involve personal narratives and in‐depth interviews. The effectiveness of such methods can be enhanced using the techniques of formal logic. The approach used for the case is a simulation of a strategic group decision‐making process using interpretive structural modelling. The simulation contemplates a typical business scenario. It was done using role‐play in strategic corporate problem solving: four functional managerial roles and one general managerial role were assigned. Individual and group relationships were portrayed.

Findings

After analysing the results the authors found major differences in priority orderings of the different roles. As there are differences in the perception of the priority of the issues in the different managerial roles, it would be more difficult to take a decision.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of this research are that it was done with assigned roles instead of real executives. Further research could provide ways of identifying schools of thought in decision‐making groups for strategic issues.

Practical implications

The practical application of this paper would be in the hypothetical decision‐making arena, improving the decision‐making process among executives working in different functional areas.

Originality/value

The application of formal logic methods to a decision‐making process is the prime contribution of this paper.
Management of infrastructures
Authors: Suomi Reima
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to compare the railway and internet revolutions. What do they have in common and what is different between them, considering the 150‐year time difference in their occurrence? As time passes, can internet developers learn something from the railway industry?

Findings

The two industries have a lot of common. Both railways and the internet represent national infrastructures that cannot be managed just based on business management principles. As both are concerned with traffic, either that of physical goods or of messages, the two industries also seem to have a lot in technical terms when one takes a sufficiently abstract point of view. The main message is that in the long term, the railway revolution vanished and the industry turned into a low profit/interest field. The internet might follow the same path.

Research limitations/implications

The paper in its current form is based on a literature review only. Its quality could be improved with a detailed empirical study. Other similar infrastructure‐type industries could also be involved.

Practical implications

There are several things that could be improved in the management of the internet, but they are large‐scale issues needing co‐operation between the many stakeholders in the internet. Examples are those of avoiding the digital divide and catering for critical “last mile” connections, as well as managing the diversity of different standards.

Originality/value

As far as the author knows this is the first paper of its kind comparing these two industries. The message is that more cross‐industrial studies need to be performed. Also, the message of the paper – that the internet might turn into a low‐interest business in the long run – has not been discussed sufficiently.
Developments in industrial robotic safety
Authors: Piggin Richard
Published: June 2005

Purpose

A review of safety‐technology, applicable safety‐related standards and the impact on the use of robots in industrial environments.

Design/methodology/approach

Technological developments are presented in safety‐related control technology, including programmable safety controllers, configurable safety controllers, safety networking and robotic safety in human environments. The technological developments are related to new and emerging safety standards.

Findings

The development of safety‐related technology and new international and European standards have fundamentally changed the way in which safety is now being engineered in industry. The introduction of new standards and revision of others have allowed safety‐related systems to utilise “state of the art” electronic, programmable, and network based technologies. New international standards are likely to include collaborative working with humans in the robotic workspace. This is set to change how robots are utilised in manufacturing environments.

Originality/value

The review of applicable standards and technical developments: with examples from current research and new technologies, demonstrating engineering solutions that embody the principles of the new standards.
Development of a robot for orbital welding
Authors: Lima Eduardo J. , Fortunato Torres Guilherme C. , Felizardo Ivanilza , Ramalho Filho Frederico A. , Bracarense Alexandre Q.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

This work demonstrates the development of a robot, which was designed for the orbital welding of pipes.

Design/methodology/approach

The robot consists of a small car pressed against the pipe by means of chains, which are used by the robot to move around it. To provide all necessary torch movements, the robot must have four degrees of freedom: torch travel speed, stick‐out, torch angle and lateral motion. Thus, using a look‐up table‐which was specially designed to this application‐it is possible to follow the optimal parameters (voltage, current, welding speed, torch angle and stick‐out) for each welding position (flat, vertical and overhead).

Findings

The robotization of the orbital welding process brings enhancement in the final product quality, considerable increase of repeatability, reduction of rework and reduction of the weld execution time. At the very least, the robot is capable to reproduce the weld bead of the best human welder, through the use of the same paramenters contained in a table.

Practical implications

The use of this robot in welding with GMAW proved to be extremely viable. It was shown that the bead shape did not suffer great variations from one welding postion to another, thanks to the use of a gradual change of parameters.

Originality/value

Although, by RIA definition the devices for the orbital welding shown in literature up to now are not robots, the developed device can be called a robot due to its capability of being completely programmable and automatically carrying through all welding activities.
Real‐time top‐face vision based control of weld pool size
Authors: Smith Jeremy S. , Balfour Chris
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Top‐face control of weld penetration in TIG welding is required for fully automated systems to overcome variations in the welding process and fixturing systems.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a system based upon based on the real‐time vision measurement and control of the upper surface or “topface” weld pool size. The primary objective has been to demonstrate the feasibility of using vision‐based image processing to provide measurements and the subsequent control of upper bead weld geometrical properties during the weld formation or molten phase and correlate this to the backface weld bead size.

Findings

Vision based measurement of the upper surface of the weld pool can be used, in real‐time, to control the weld pool size. This allows more uniform weld penetration to be achieved in the presence of disturbances.

Research limitations/implications

The system requires that the pool edges can be accurately identified using a correlation method. This requires images with good contrast between the weld pool and the workpiece.

Practical implications

The system is applicable to both continuous and pulsed TIG welding.

Originality/value

A novel reference feature correlation‐based image analysis algorithm has been developed that may be configured to operate with a number of different welding processes. The issues of system integration, i.e. interfacing the system with legacy welding equipment are also discussed.
Sensors in robotic arc welding to support small series production
Authors: Bolmsjö Gunnar , Olsson Magnus
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Aims to present general concepts and framework for increasing the flexibility in robotic arc welding with respect to use of sensors and small series production.

Design/methodology/approach

Presents a conceptual model with a framework that integrates existing tools and needed developments and research to increase the usefulness of sensors in robotic arc welding. The conceptual model is based on research within the field which covers supporting tools like robot simulation, sensor modelling and handling and optimization issues with respect to the robot task execution. A descriptive structure and concept is outlined to include welding procedure specifications (WPS) as a key module to provide an integrated and holistic control model of the robotic.

Findings

Finds that the outlined conceptual model and architecture supports an increased flexibility of sensor controlled robots for arc welding applications. The arguments are specifically made for small series and one‐off production.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is limited to arc welding applications and the concept and arguments are made with small series and one‐off production in mind.

Practical implications

Increased use of sensors and robots in small series production.

Originality/value

Introduces a holistic approach for task level control of a robot which introduces a structured way for integrated and coordinated control of the arc welding task. The objective is to execute the welding task with maintained robustness with respect to predefined specifications (quality, productivity).
Welding and sensor application with rotating torch
Authors: Dilthey U. , Wilms G. , Sevim A.M.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Aims to present missing knowledge of welding and sensor application with rotating torch to the technically and economically meaningful employment. With the help of this knowledge, on the one hand, the potential user is to be informed about the applicability of the system in the context of his production line and his products and on the other hand, the classification of the system in the range of the alternatives available on market.

Design/methodology/approach

Introduces the welding operation and experimental results of rotating torch integrated with a sensor device using a 6‐axis robot. Performed various laboratory experiments investigating variable frequency values with different torch orientations.

Findings

Figures out the optimum frequency and torch orientation to obtain ultimate welding geometry by means of compensating gaps with increased weld root. Observed the possibility of out‐of‐position welding.

Research limitations/implications

In this manner, provides a great scope as a pioneer application in industry and a guidance for forthcoming researches.

Practical implications

Allows welding of thin sheet metals.

Originality/value

Presents a seminal concept in the field of any industrial applications such as marine and pipeline construction.
The strategic value of customer profitability analysis
Authors: van Raaij Erik M.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to show how intelligence emanating from customer profitability analysis (CPA) can help improve strategic marketing planning. Insights into the profitability of individual customers, as well as the distribution of profitability across the customer base, can lead to better decisions in the areas of managing costs and revenues, managing risks and strategic market positioning.

Design/methodology/approach

The concept and process of CPA are first explained. The heart of the paper then discusses how the outcomes permit novel analyses related to costs and revenues, risk, and strategic positioning. Finally, the paper explains what is needed to make the shift from retrospective CPA to prospective CPA.

Findings

CPA delivers two types of insights: the degree of profitability for each individual customer, and the distribution of profitability among customers within the customer base. Profitability data at the level of the individual customer support better decision making about service levels, marketing investments and pricing strategies. The profitability distribution curve yields information about the vulnerability of future cash flows from customers. Further, DPA data permit segmentation and targeting on the basis of profitability and the development of different value propositions for different profitability segments.

Practical implications

Shareholder value is created through cash flows from customers. CPA uncovers where these cash flows are generated. Armed with customer profitability data, marketers can really develop and implement value‐driven differentiated customer service strategies.

Originality/value

While quite a number of published papers have discussed the technicalities of calculating customer profitability, this paper adds to the literature an overview of how the outcomes of such calculations can help planners make better decisions, to increase the magnitude of cash flows from customers and/or reduce the volatility and vulnerability of such cash flows.
Where is my suitcase? RFID and airline customer service
Authors: Wyld David C. , Jones Michael A. , Totten Jeffrey W.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Examines the adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology in the commercial aviation industry, focusing on its role in baggage handling and security.

Design/methodology/approach

Draws upon academic and trade literature to provide a current overview of developments in the implementation of RFID technology in commercial aviation, particularly focusing on Delta Airlines, an industry leader in the USA in the testing and development of RFID systems for improved operations in baggage handling.

Findings

Though RFID technology is experiencing widespread adoption across many industries, commercial aviation seems poised to be a leader in its full‐scale adoption in practice. RFID technology demonstrates distinct advantages over the currently used barcode system for baggage handling.

Practical implications

This paper shows how RFID technology can improve customer service though better operational efficiency in baggage handling, which has been demonstrated to be an integral component of an airline's customer service equation. Academicians and marketing professionals should both be aware of developments with RFID technology. It is of particular importance in the airline sector, as improved accuracy of baggage handling can enable air carriers to close an important service‐delivery gap in an increasingly turbulent operating environment.

Originality/value

Little is published in the academic literature about this timely topic. Most of the published information available is from corporate or commercial sources, and is presented in such formats as white papers. This paper is a companion piece to the review of RFID in UK retailing by Jones et al. in this issue.
Internet use in a Nigerian suburban setting
Authors: Akporido Caroline E.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To investigate internet usage in a Nigerian suburban setting – Abraka Delta State.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a questionnaire to collect data from 150 respondents.

Findings

Revealed the personal characteristics of the respondents, different aspects of their internet use such as duration of internet usage access time, motivation for using the Net, search engines employed, internet skills acquisition, frequency of internet use, evaluation of internet information content, problems encountered while using the internet as well as way forward.

Originality/value

The findings will assist the LIS world to know the patterns of internet use in developing world and provide the needed data that will assist policy makers and stakeholders to seek ways of making the dwellers better users of the Net.