bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Auxin Is Required for Leaf Vein Pattern in Arabidopsis
Authors: Sieburth Leslie E.
Published: July 2002

To investigate possible roles of polar auxin transport in vein patterning, cotyledon and leaf vein patterns were compared for plants grown in medium containing polar auxin transport inhibitors (N-1-naphthylphthalamic acid, 9-hydroxyfluorene-9-carboxylic acid, and 2,3,5-triiodobenzoic acid) and in medium containing a less well-characterized inhibitor of auxin-mediated processes, 2-(p-chlorophynoxy)-2-methylpropionic acid. Cotyledon vein pattern was not affected by any inhibitor treatments, although vein morphology was altered. In contrast, leaf vein pattern was affected by inhibitor treatments. Growth in polar auxin transport inhibitors resulted in leaves that lacked vascular continuity through the petiole and had broad, loosely organized midveins, an increased number of secondary veins, and a dense band of misshapen tracheary elements adjacent to the leaf margin. Analysis of leaf vein pattern developmental time courses suggested that the primary vein did not develop in polar auxin transport inhibitor-grown plants, and that the broad midvein observed in these seedlings resulted from the coalescence of proximal regions of secondary veins. Possible models for leaf vein patterning that could account for these observations are discussed.
Mutation in the Threonine Synthase Gene Results in an Over-Accumulation of Soluble Methionine in Arabidopsis
Authors: Bartlem Derek , Lambein Ingrid , Okamoto Takashi , Itaya Asuka , Uda Yukie , Kijima Fumiko , Tamaki Yuko , Nambara Eiji , Naito Satoshi
Published: July 2002

In higher plants, O-phosphohomoserine (OPH) represents a branch point between the methionine (Met) and threonine (Thr) biosynthetic pathways. It is believed that the enzymes Thr synthase (TS) and cystathionine γ-synthase (CGS) actively compete for the OPH substrate for Thr and Met biosynthesis, respectively. We have isolated a mutant of Arabidopsis, designated mto2-1, that over-accumulates soluble Met 22-fold and contains markedly reduced levels of soluble Thr in young rosettes. The mto2-1mutant carries a single base pair mutation within the gene encoding TS, resulting in a leucine-204 to arginine change. Accumulation of TS mRNA and protein was normal in young rosettes of mto2-1, whereas functional complementation analysis of an Escherichia coli thrC mutation suggested that the ability ofmto2-1 TS to synthesize Thr is impaired. We concluded that the mutation within the TS gene is responsible for themto2-1 phenotype, resulting in decreased Thr biosynthesis and a channeling of OPH to Met biosynthesis in young rosettes. Analysis of the mto2-1 mutant suggested that, in vivo, the feedback regulation of CGS is not sufficient alone for the control of Met biosynthesis in young rosettes and is dependent on TS activity. In addition, developmental analysis of soluble Met and Thr concentrations indicated that the accumulation of these amino acids is regulated in a temporal and spatial manner.
Variation in the Oxygen Isotope Ratio of Phloem Sap Sucrose from Castor Bean. Evidence in Support of the Péclet Effect
Authors: Barbour Margaret M. , Schurr Ulrich , Henry Beverley K. , Wong S. Chin , Farquhar Graham D.
Published: July 2002

Theory suggests that the level of enrichment of18O above source water in plant organic material (Δ) may provide an integrative indicator of control of water loss. However, there are still gaps in our understanding of the processes affecting Δ. One such gap is the observed discrepancy between modeled enrichment of water at the sites of evaporation within the leaf and measured enrichment of the leaf water as a whole (ΔL). Farquhar and Lloyd (1993) suggested that this may be caused by a Péclet effect. It is also unclear whether organic material formed in the leaf reflects enrichment of water at the sites of evaporation within the leaf or ΔL. To investigate this question castor bean (Ricinus communis L.) leaves, still attached to the plant, were sealed into a controlled-environment gas exchange chamber and subjected to a step change in leaf-to-air vapor pressure difference. Sucrose was collected from a cut on the petiole of the leaf in the chamber under equilibrium conditions and every hour for 6 h after the change in leaf-to-air vapor pressure difference. Oxygen isotope composition of sucrose in the phloem sap (Δsuc) reflected modeled ΔL. A model is presented describing Δsuc at isotopic steady state, and accounts for 96% of variation in measured Δsuc. The data strongly support the Péclet effect theory.
Cytochrome P450-Dependent Metabolism of Oxylipins in Tomato. Cloning and Expression of Allene Oxide Synthase and Fatty Acid Hydroperoxide Lyase
Authors: Howe Gregg A. , Lee Gyu In , Itoh Aya , Li Lei , DeRocher Amy E.
Published: July 2002

Allene oxide synthase (AOS) and fatty acid hydroperoxide lyase (HPL) are plant-specific cytochrome P450s that commit fatty acid hydroperoxides to different branches of oxylipin metabolism. Here we report the cloning and characterization of AOS (LeAOS) and HPL (LeHPL) cDNAs from tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum). Functional expression of the cDNAs inEscherichia coli showed that LeAOS andLeHPL encode enzymes that metabolize 13- but not 9-hydroperoxide derivatives of C18 fatty acids. LeAOS was active against both 13S-hydroperoxy-9(Z),11(E),15(Z)-octadecatrienoic acid (13-HPOT) and 13S-hydroperoxy-9(Z),11(E)-octadecadienoic acid, whereas LeHPL showed a strong preference for 13-HPOT. These results suggest a role for LeAOS andLeHPL in the metabolism of 13-HPOT to jasmonic acid and hexenal/traumatin, respectively. LeAOS expression was detected in all organs of the plant. In contrast, LeHPLexpression was predominant in leaves and flowers. Damage inflicted to leaves by chewing insect larvae led to an increase in the local and systemic expression of both genes, with LeAOS showing the strongest induction. Wound-induced expression ofLeAOS also occurred in the def-1 mutant that is deficient in octadecanoid-based signaling of defensive proteinase inhibitor genes. These results demonstrate that tomato uses genetically distinct signaling pathways for the regulation of different classes of wound responsive genes.
Blue Light Activates Potassium-Efflux Channels in Flexor Cells from Samanea saman Motor Organs via Two Mechanisms
Authors: Suh SuJeong , Moran Nava , Lee Youngsook
Published: July 2002

Light-induced leaflet movement of Samanea samandepends on the regulation of membrane transporters in motor cells. Blue light (BL) stimulates leaflet opening by inducing K+release from the flexor motor cells. To elucidate the mechanism of K+-efflux (KD)-channel regulation by light, flexor motor cell protoplasts were patch-clamped in a cell-attached configuration during varying illumination. Depolarization elicited outward currents through single open KD channels. Changes in cell membrane potential (E  M) were estimated by applying voltage ramps and tracking the change of the apparent reversal potential of KD-channel current. BL shifted E  M in a positive direction (i.e. depolarized the cell) by about 10 mV. Subsequent red light pulse followed by darkness shifted E  M oppositely (i.e. hyperpolarized the cell). The BL-induced shifts ofE  M were not observed in cells pretreated with a hydrogen-pump inhibitor, suggesting a contribution by hydrogen-pump to the shift. BL also increased KD-channel activity in a voltage-independent manner as reflected in the increase of the mean net steady-state patch conductance at a depolarization of 40 mV relative to the apparent reversal potential (G  @40). G  @40increased by approximately 12 pS without a change of the single-channel conductance, possibly by increasing the probability of channel opening. Subsequent red-light and darkness reversed the change inG  @40. Thus, K+ efflux, a determining factor for the cell-volume decrease of flexor cells, is regulated by BL in a dual manner via membrane potential and by an independent signaling pathway.
Modular Domain Structure of Arabidopsis COP1. Reconstitution of Activity by Fragment Complementation and Mutational Analysis of a Nuclear Localization Signal in Planta
Authors: Stacey Minviluz G. , Kopp Olga R. , Kim Tae-Houn , von Arnim Albrecht G.
Published: July 2002

The Arabidopsis COP1 protein functions as a developmental regulator, in part by repressing photomorphogenesis in darkness. Using complementation of a cop1 loss-of-function allele with transgenes expressing fusions of cop1 mutant proteins and β-glucuronidase, it was confirmed that COP1 consists of two modules, an amino terminal module conferring a basal function during development and a carboxyl terminal module conferring repression of photomorphogenesis. The amino-terminal zinc-binding domain of COP1 was indispensable for COP1 function. In contrast, the debilitating effects of site-directed mutations in the single nuclear localization signal of COP1 were partially compensated by high-level transgene expression. The carboxyl-terminal module of COP1, though unable to substantially ameliorate a cop1 loss-of-function allele on its own, was sufficient for conferring a light-quality-dependent hyperetiolation phenotype in the presence of wild-type COP1. Moreover, partial COP1 activity could be reconstituted in vivo from two non-covalently linked, complementary polypeptides that represent the two functional modules of COP1. Evidence is presented for efficient association of the two sub-fragments of the split COP1 protein in Arabidopsis and in a yeast two-hybrid assay.
Malate-Permeable Channels and Cation Channels Activated by Aluminum in the Apical Cells of Wheat Roots
Authors: Zhang Wen-Hao , Ryan Peter R. , Tyerman Stephen D.
Published: July 2002

Aluminum (Al3+)-dependent efflux of malate from root apices is a mechanism for Al3+ tolerance in wheat (Triticum aestivum). The malate anions protect the sensitive root tips by chelating the toxic Al3+ cations in the rhizosphere to form non-toxic complexes. Activation of malate-permeable channels in the plasma membrane could be critical in regulating this malate efflux. We examined this by investigating Al3+-activated channels in protoplasts from root apices of near-isogenic wheat differing in Al3+ tolerance at a single locus. Using whole-cell patch clamp we found that Al3+stimulated an electrical current carried by anion efflux across the plasma membrane in the Al3+-tolerant (ET8) and Al3+-sensitive (ES8) genotypes. This current occurred more frequently, had a greater current density, and remained active for longer in ET8 protoplasts than for ES8 protoplasts. The Al3+-activated current exhibited higher permeability to malate2− than to Cl−(P  mal/P  Cl ≥ 2.6) and was inhibited by anion channel antagonists, niflumate and diphenylamine-2-carboxylic acid. In ET8, but not ES8, protoplasts an outward-rectifying K+ current was activated in the presence of Al3+ when cAMP was included in the pipette solution. These findings provide evidence that the difference in Al3+-induced malate efflux between Al3+-tolerant and Al3+-sensitive genotypes lies in the differing capacity for Al3+ to activate malate permeable channels and cation channels for sustained malate release.
Different Pathways Are Involved in Phosphate and Iron Stress-Induced Alterations of Root Epidermal Cell Development
Authors: Schmidt Wolfgang , Schikora Adam
Published: July 2002

Low bioavailability of phosphorus (P) and iron (Fe) induces morphogenetic changes in roots that lead to a higher surface-to-volume ratio. In Arabidopsis, an enlargement in the absorptive surface area is achieved by an increase in the length and frequency of hairs in roots of Fe- and P-deficient plants. The extra root hairs are often located in positions that are occupied with non-hair cells under normal conditions, i.e. over a tangential wall of underlying cortical cells. An involvement of auxin and ethylene in root epidermis cell development of Fe- and P-deficient plants was inferred from phenotypical analysis of hormone-related Arabidopsis mutants and from the application of substances that interfere with either synthesis, transport, or perception of the hormones. Application of the ethylene precursor 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid or the auxin analog 2,4-D caused a marked increase in root hair density in plants of all growth types and confers a phenotype characteristic of ethylene-overproducing mutants. Hormone insensitivity and application of hormone antagonists inhibited the initiation of extranumerary root hairs induced by Fe deficiency, but did not counteract the formation of extra hairs in response to P deprivation. A model is presented summarizing putative pathways for alterations in root epidermal cell patterning induced by environmental stress.
Mobilization of Ca2+ by Cyclic ADP-Ribose from the Endoplasmic Reticulum of Cauliflower Florets
Authors: Navazio Lorella , Mariani Paola , Sanders Dale
Published: July 2002

The NAD+ metabolite cADP-Rib (cADPR) elevates cytosolic free Ca2+ in plants and thereby plays a central role in signal transduction pathways evoked by the drought and stress hormone abscisic acid. cADPR is known to mobilize Ca2+ from the large vacuole of mature cells. To determine whether additional sites for cADPR-gated Ca2+ release reside in plant cells, microsomes from cauliflower (Brassica oleracea) inflorescences were subfractionated on sucrose density gradients, and the distribution of cADPR-elicited Ca2+ release was monitored. cADPR-gated Ca2+ release was detected in the heavy-density fractions associated with rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER). cADPR-dependent Ca2+ release co-migrated with two ER markers, calnexin and antimycin A-insensitive NADH-cytochromec reductase activity. To investigate the possibility that contaminating plasma membrane in the ER-rich fractions was responsible for the observed release, plasma membrane vesicles were purified by aqueous two-phase partitioning, everted with Brij-58, and loaded with Ca2+: These vesicles failed to respond to cADPR. Ca2+ release evoked by cADPR at the ER was fully inhibited by ruthenium red and 8-NH2-cADPR, a specific antagonist of cADPR-gated Ca2+ release in animal cells. The presence of a Ca2+ release pathway activated by cADPR at higher plant ER reinforces the notion that, alongside the vacuole, the ER participates in Ca2+ signaling.
Regulation of Flowering in Arabidopsis by anFLCHomologue
Authors: Ratcliffe Oliver J. , Nadzan Greg C. , Reuber T. Lynne , Riechmann José Luis
Published: July 2002

The Arabidopsis FLC gene encodes a MADS domain protein that acts as a repressor of flowering. Late-flowering vernalization-responsive ecotypes and mutants have high steady-state levels of FLC transcript, which decrease during the promotion of flowering by vernalization. Therefore, FLC has a central role in regulating the response to vernalization. We have isolated an Arabidopsis gene, MAF1, which encodes a protein that is closely related to FLC. Overexpression studies demonstrate thatMAF1 produces comparable effects to FLC, and likely has a similar function in the regulation of flowering. In contrast to FLC, however, MAF1 expression shows a less clear correlation with the vernalization response. In addition, MAF1 overexpression does not influenceFLC transcript levels. Thus, MAF1 likely acts downstream or independently of FLC transcription. We further report identification of a cluster of four additionalFLC-like genes in the Arabidopsis genome.
Characterization of Two HKT1 Homologues from Eucalyptus camaldulensis That Display Intrinsic Osmosensing Capability
Authors: Liu Weihong , Fairbairn David J. , Reid Rob J. , Schachtman Daniel P.
Published: July 2002

Plants have multiple potassium (K+) uptake and efflux mechanisms that are expressed throughout plant tissues to fulfill different physiological functions. Several different classes of K+ channels and carriers have been identified at the molecular level in plants. K+ transporters of the HKT1 superfamily have been cloned from wheat (Triticum aestivum), Arabidopsis, and Eucalyptus camaldulensis. The functional characteristics as well as the primary structure of these transporters are diverse with orthologues found in bacterial and fungal genomes. In this report, we provide a detailed characterization of the functional characteristics, as expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes, of two cDNAs isolated from E. camaldulensis that encode proteins belonging to the HKT1 superfamily of K+/Na+transporters. The transport of K+ inEcHKT-expressing oocytes is enhanced by Na+, but K+ was also transported in the absence of Na+. Na+ is transported in the absence of K+ as has been demonstrated for HKT1 and AtHKT1. Overall, the E. camaldulensis transporters show some similarities and differences in ionic selectivity to HKT1 and AtHKT1. One striking difference between HKT1 and EcHKT is the sensitivity to changes in the external osmolarity of the solution. Hypotonic solutions increased EcHKT induced currents in oocytes by 100% as compared with no increased current in HKT1 expressing or uninjected oocytes. These osmotically sensitive currents were not enhanced by voltage and may mediate water flux. The physiological function of these osmotically induced increases in currents may be related to the ecological niches that E. camaldulensis inhabits, which are periodically flooded. Therefore, the osmosensing function of EcHKT may provide this species with a competitive advantage in maintaining K+ homeostasis under certain conditions.
Impact induced dynamic failure of laminated composite pretwisted rotating plates
Authors: Karmakar Amit , Sinha P.K.
Published: July 2002

A transient dynamic finite element procedure is presented for failure analysis of centrally‐impacted laminated composite pretwisted rotating plates. A nine‐noded, three‐dimensional degenerated composite shell element is developed and used for the present finite element formulation. Effects of transverse shear deformation and rotary inertia are included. The strength‐of‐material type failure criteria are adopted and the “total ply discount” approach is used as the stiffness reduction model. The dynamic equilibrium equation is derived by applying Lagrange’s equation of motion and the investigation is carried out for moderate rotational speeds for which the Coriolis effect is negligible. The modified Hertzian contact law is utilized to compute the contact force between the impactor and the laminated plate. Impact failure analyses of pretwisted rotating plates are performed to investigate the effects of angle of twist, rotational speed and laminate configuration.
The F‐16 departure phenomena
Authors: Evangelou Leonidas D. , Self Andrew , Allen John
Published: July 2002

The increasing demand on high performance fighter aircraft has introduced areas of concern associated with the handling qualities, control and safety at high angles of incidence. Pilots are limiting combat effectiveness by cautiously avoiding hazardous regions of the flight envelope. This paper presents the results of the work undertaken in analysing the F‐16 aircraft’s handling characteristics during the departure condition. In‐flight experience shows that there are two types of F‐16 control problems when flying at high angles of attack: the “pitch departures” and the resulting “deep stall trim”. Avoidance of the departure requires the aeroplane to have sufficient nose‐down pitch and roll control moment. This paper investigates departure condition during high angles of attack and suggests a method of recovery.
Inertially stabilized pointing control system
Authors: Plaian Andrei , Tecuceanu George , Ursu Felicia , Ursu Ioan
Published: July 2002

A pointing control system, combining passive inertial stabilization with active control, is presented. Such systems can direct an apparatus towards a fixed or slow moving target from a moving vehicle whose motion is almost rectilinear. The system was initially conceived to study the total solar eclipse in August 1999 in Romania. The passive inertial stabilization method consists of suspending a large mass by means of very low friction bearings. Consequently, a good static and dynamic equilibration is required. If the position information used by the control system is obtained by processing the image of the target, the large time delay involved makes the control synthesis rather difficult. In this paper, two control synthesis approaches, both providing the required tracking precision, and a comparison between the two corresponding control algorithms are presented.
The European Rotorcraft Forum
Authors: Ford Terry
Published: July 2002

Presents shortened versions of a number of papers presented at the recent 22nd European Rotorcraft Forum held in Brighton, UK, whose theme was advances in research, development, design, manufacturing, testing and operation. Specific aircraft focused on are the EH 101 Merlin trials aircraft; the V‐22 Osprey tiltrotor; and the NH 90 helicopter. Discusses some of the developments on the more general subjects that were dealt with at the symposium: advanced transmission technology; metallic structures; composites; and aeroelasticity.
A novel concept for the next generation civil supersonic transport propulsion system: the retractable fan
Authors: Huete Jon , Singh Riti
Published: July 2002

Suggests that the next civil supersonic passenger aircraft project will pose a number of challenges. The propulsion system for this aircraft will have to achieve economic operation for both supersonic and subsonic cruise modes. In addition, the current and intended noise and pollutant emissions legislation will have to be met. Suggests that, while there are a number of proposed engines for the next generation civil supersonic aircraft, they all exhibit difficulties in meeting the compromises inherent in the engine duty. Offers a novel solution based on a unique design. Discusses the underlying issues and presents the design based on retractable fans driven by a single stage double pass tip turbine.
A variable cycle jet engine for ASTOVL aircraft
Authors: Wood Alan , Pilidis Pericles
Published: July 2002

Describes a novel concept in aircraft propulsion: investigates a variable cycle jet engine for a supersonic advanced short take‐off vertical landing (ASTOVL) aircraft. The engine is the selective bleed turbofan. The selective bleed turbofan is a two shaft, three compressor, variable cycle gas turbine. At subsonic flight speeds it operates as a medium bypass turbofan. It becomes a low bypass turbofan when flying faster and is capable of supersonic cruise in the dry mode. A preliminary design of an ASTOVL aircraft from Cranfield, the S‐95, was used as the vehicle. Outlines the performance of the engine and its integration with the aircraft. Explains off‐design engine performance characteristics and describes variable geometry requirements. The major advantage of this engine is that all the components are employed all the time, for all operating modes, thus incurring low weight penalties. Predicts that the aircraft/ engine combination will perform in a satisfactory way, meeting most performance targets provided that some improvements are carried out.
Rejected takeoff and landing
Authors: Ford Terry
Published: July 2002

To improve the standards for determining the accelerate‐stop and landing performance of transport aircraft the FAA has published a proposed rule that makes three amendments which are detailed here. The first revises the method for taking into account the time needed for the pilot to accomplish the procedures for a rejected takeoff, another requires that takeoff performance be determined for wet runways, and the third requires that rejected takeoff and landing distances be based on worn brakes. These amendments are based on a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) issued early in the 1990s. These standards are not being applied retroactively either to aircraft currently in use or to aircraft of existing approved designs that will be manufactured in the future.
Crashworthiness of helicopter subfloor structural components
Authors: Bisagni Chiara
Published: July 2002

The present investigation is oriented towards the design of an energy absorbing aluminium subfloor for a new Agusta helicopter. To identify the detailed design and the structural concepts for the most efficient mechanism of energy absorption, the typical subfloor components have to be investigated. Design aspects focus in more detail on the subfloor structural intersections, because, under vertical crash loads, they can create high deceleration peak loads at the cabin floor level and cause dangerous inputs to the seat/occupant system. The crash behaviour and energy absorption capability of the subfloor structural intersections are investigated by experimental drop tests and finite element analyses. Presents the correlation between crash data and numerical results.
UK education’s support for its aerospace industry
Authors: Barnes John H.
Published: July 2002

This paper describes the change of dominance, in the provision of engineering education and training, from that of major large scale industry to that of the UK public sector. Using aerospace engineering as an example, it emphasises the need for education to demonstrate more openly and effectively its ability to provide world class support for UK industry. This industry is now dominated by small and medium enterprises and in aerospace, as well as other high technological areas, it is facing increasingly severe competition from overseas. Ways of helping the further and higher education institutions to achieve such support is described by their initiation of the well established Association of Colleges of Aerospace Technology (ACAT) and the relatively new Association of Aerospace Universities (AAU). These bodies comprise mainly aerospace engineering teaching staff but there are some members from industry. Their aims are to continually improve the image, effectiveness and relevance of aerospace education. Details of ACAT and AAU are given in the appendices together with ideas for collaboration with Internet initiatives of Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology (MCB University Press Ltd) and the Aerospace Academic Network (AAN).
Windshear recovery using thrust vectoring
Authors: Visser H.G.
Published: July 2002

This study presents a preliminary evaluation of the application of Thrust Vectoring (TV) technology for improving windshear recovery of civil aircraft in microburst windshear encounters. A numerical trajectory optimization technique based on the method of multiple shooting is applied to achieve a microburst escape with minimal loss of altitude for a Boeing 727 type aircraft. Although the application of TV does result in a slight improvement in recovery altitude, there is also a price to be paid in the sense that TV utilization significantly hampers the ability to gain specific energy during recovery. Maintaining an energy buffer during a microburst encounter is highly desirable to achieve robustness with respect to uncertainness in windshear size and strength. TV aided windshear recovery has also been compared with an alternative approach to improve the windshear survivability capability, namely, the application of lateral maneuvering. The comparison shows that lateral maneuvering is not only a far more effective means to improve the recovery altitude, it also vastly improves energy preservation. In a view of the results established in this study, we feel that TV does not hold out great promise as a useful means to truly improve windshear recovery.
Non‐destructive determination of the sheet resistance of conductive coating anodes on concrete
Authors: Glass G.K. , Field S.N. , Green W.K.
Published: July 2002

Conductive coatings form the basis of a common anode system used in the cathodic protection of steel in concrete. One of the properties required by such a coating is a low sheet resistance (square resistance). This, together with the protection current density and anode connection geometry, determines the uniformity of the current distribution over the concrete surface. It is shown that the sheet resistance may be determined using a non‐destructive test employing a collinear four‐probe array. When a current (I), passed between the outer probes of an equally spaced four‐probe array, induces a voltage difference (δV) between the inner probes, the sheet resistance is given by (pgr;/ln2)x(dgr;V/I). The validity of the measured values may be assessed by the absence of any sensitivity to probe orientation and spacing. This technique may be used in the assessment of the quality of installed conductive coating anodes. The sheet resistance will depend on factors such as the thickness and age of the installed coating.
Corrosion behaviour of Monel in phosphoric acid
Authors: Jeyaprabha C. , Muralidharan S. , Venkatachari G.
Published: July 2002

Nickel alloys are widely used as constructional materials in chemical processing industries. They are very resistant to pitting and crevice corrosion. In the present work, the corrosion behaviour of Monel in phosphoric acid of different concentrations has been studied by weight loss and electrochemical methods. It has been observed from the polarization studies that the passivation range slightly varies with H3PO4 concentration. The nature of the passive film has been investigated using the electrochemical impedance method.
Corrosion inhibition of mild steel in acid solutions by tetramethyl‐dithia‐octaazacyclotetradeca hexaene (MTAT)
Authors: Quraishi M.A. , Rawat Jaya
Published: July 2002

Inhibition of the corrosion of mild steel in 1‐5 N HCl and H2SO4 by a macrocyclic compound viz., tetramethyl‐dithia‐octaazacyclotetradeca hexaene (MTAT) was studied as a corrosion inhibitor by weight loss and electrochemical potentiodynamic polarization methods. The influence of temperature, immersion time and acid concentration was also studied in the presence of MTAT in HCl and H2SO4. The potentiodynamic polarization carried out in 1‐5 N HCl and H2SO4 in the absence and presence of inhibitor revealed that MTAT is a mixed inhibitor. MTAT exhibited better performance as a corrosion inhibitor in H2SO4 and its performance was further improved the addition of KI due to synergism. The adsorption of MTAT on the mild steel surface obeyed Temkin adsorption isotherm.
Electrochemical corrosion behaviour of heat‐treated AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel in inorganic acid mixture
Authors: Pandey J.L. , Singh Inder , Singh M.N.
Published: July 2002

Attempts to study the effect of heat‐treated AISI 304 stainless steel in a nitrated‐sulphuric acid environment. Potentiodynamic polarization studies of heat‐treated AISI 304 SS samples were carried out in 75 per cent H2SO4 ‐ 25 per cent HNO3 acid environment using a PARC‐273 potentiostat/galvanostat. For comparison, potentiodynamic polarization studies of untreated AISI 304 SS were also carried out under similar conditions. Potential versus current density were plotted and the values of Ip and Ic were calculated. The curve depicts that the value of Icorr increases with increasing heat treatment temperature and time of exposure. Abrupt changes in Icorr were observed in the sample heat‐treated at 500°C and 600°C for 120 minutes and 60 minutes respectively. Infers that heat treatment temperature and time of exposure to heat accelerated the corrosion in the acid. Attributes this to precipitation of chromium carbide at the grain boundaries.
Surface and thermodynamic parameters of some cationic corrosion inhibitors
Authors: Abdel‐Hamid Z.
Published: July 2002

Four cationic corrosion inhibitors were prepared having the general formula ClRN+H2(CH2)nN+H2RCl, where R is a hydrogen atom or benzyl group, n = 8 or 10. Determines the critical micelle concentration (CMC) at 38, 48 and 58°C. Also investigates structural effects on the CMC, maximum surface excess (Γmax), and minimum area per molecule (Amin) at the aqueous solutions/air interface. Shows that these inhibitors provided a powerful corrosion inhibition of steel in sulphuric acid solution at temperatures up to 78°C. Also indicates that the alkylation process improved surface and thermodynamic properties, consequently attaining better inhibition effects.
Corrosion inhibition by ATMP‐molybdate‐Zn2+ system in low chloride media
Authors: Rajendran S. , Apparao B.V. , Mani A. , Palaniswamy N.
Published: July 2002

The effect of amino (trimethylene phosphonic acid), (ATMP), molybdate and Zn2+ on the inhibition of corrosion of mild steel in a neutral aqueous environment containing 60 ppm Cl‐ has been evaluated by the weight ‐ loss method. It is found that the formulation consisting of 50 ppm ATMP, 300 ppm MoO42‐ and 50 ppm Zn2+ has 96 per cent inhibition efficiency. The nature of the protective film has been analysed by X‐ray diffraction technique FTIR and luminescence spectra. It seems that the protective film consists of Fe2(MoO4)3, ZnMoO4, Fe2+‐ATMP complex and Zn(OH)2. This film is found to be luminescent.
Mechanism of inhibition of corrosion of mild steel by polyacrylamide, phenyl phosphonate and Zn2+
Authors: Rajendran Susai , Apparao B.V. , Palaniswamy N.
Published: July 2002

The formulation consisting of 50ppm polyacrylamide (PAA), 300ppm phenyl phosphonic acid (PPA) and 50ppm Zn2+ has 95 per cent inhibition efficiency in controlling corrosion of mild steel in a neutral aqueous environment, containing 60ppm Cl—, a situation commonly encountered in cooling water systems. A discussion of mechanistic aspects of corrosion inhibition is based on the results obtained from a potentiostatic polarization study, UV‐visible, FTIR and luminescence spectra. The protective film is found to be luminescent and to consist of Fe2+‐PAA complex, Fe2+‐PPA complex and Zn(OH)2.
Influence of substituents on the inhibition efficiency of phosphonic acid‐Zn2+ systems
Authors: Rajendran S. , Apparao B.V. , Palaniswamy N.
Published: July 2002

The inhibition efficiencies of ethyl phosphonic acid (EPA) and 2‐chloroethyl phosphonic acid (2‐Cl EPA) in the presence of Zn2+, in controlling the corrosion of mild steel in a neutral aqueous environment containing 60ppm Cl‐ have been evaluated by weight‐loss method and compared. It is observed that 2‐Cl EPA‐Zn2+ system has more inhibition efficiency than an EPA‐Zn2+ system. It is due to the electron withdrawing power of the Cl atom and its size. The nature of the protective film formed on the surface of the metal has been analysed by X‐ray diffraction, uv‐visible reflectance and luminescence spectra.
Hydroinformatics, data mining and maintenance of UK water networks
Authors: Savic Dragan A. , Walters Godfrey A.
Published: July 2002

This paper introduces hydroinformatics, a discipline that has strong ancestry in the computational sciences and artificial intelligence, as a way forward for water network management and maintenance in particular. Within hydroinformatics, geographic information systems and data mining (artificial neural networks and genetic algorithms specifically) are the new technologies with probably the widest applicability to the water industry. This paper introduces basic concepts of hydroinformatics and data mining, explains the process by which they may be applied and describes basic technologies with their advantages and disadvantages.
Survey research in the UK beer industry
Authors: Vignali Claudio , Vrontis Demetris
Published: July 2002

This research into the UK beer/brewing industry uses a quantitative‐based survey and seeks to investigate and analyse the national beer market for a major brewer.
Hedonic prices for Spanish red quality wine
Authors: María Angulo Ana , María Gil José , Gracia Azucena , Sánchez Mercedes
Published: July 2002

In this paper, market values for most of wine attributes are measured through the estimation of a hedonic price function, which relates the price of a wine to its various attributes. As more expensive wines are also associated with higher recognition of wine attributes, results also reflect consumers’ valuation of wine attributes. Data used in this paper comes from a wine catalogue in which only price categories are available. As independent variables, the following wine attributes have been considered: region of production, the year vintage, grape variety, alcoholic content and expert quality ratings. Due to the nature of available data, the hedonic price function has been estimated in the form of a Multinomial Logit model. Results indicate that the two first variables (region of production and the year vintage) are the main market price determinants while grape variety and the alcoholic contents are not significantly correlated with red wine prices.
Succeeding in the post‐BSE UK meat, poultry and cheese processing and packaging industries
Authors: Pickernell David , Hermyt Julia
Published: July 2002

This article looks at how certain companies within the UK meat, poultry and cheese packaging and processing industries have achieved success within the new market environment created in the aftermath of the BSE crisis. The study utilises a postal questionnaire sent to 50 companies in these industries and identified three sets of industry key success factors or strategies: focus on the customer, focus on value added, focus on pursuing improvements. The strategies identified within those areas can provide such organisations with basic policies which can improve the probability of emerging as successful in a changing environment.
Danish cheese
Authors: Paul Dana Leo , Dana Teresa E.
Published: July 2002

Firms – in their efforts to internationalise – often find that the best strategy is to adapt to local environments. However, the EU has passed legislation to move toward standardisation of certain products. This is a problem for a Danish producer of cheese.
Kentucky Fried Chicken
Authors: Paul Dana Leo
Published: July 2002

Kentucky Fried Chicken has made a very successful entry into China. This case is about the KFC outlet at the Dong Fong Hotel, in Shanghai. The hotel was recently closed for renovations.
Nirula’s small business
Authors: Paul Dana Leo
Published: July 2002

This case is about a local food chain in India, Nirula’s. As McDonald’s penetrates New Delhi, Nirula’s is faced with unprecedented competition from abroad. The small enterprise must be globally competitive in order to sustain competition from global players who are forcing it into a formerly protected market. One strategic option for Nirula’s is to expand its plans for internationalisation.
Staff motivation in small food manufacturing enterprises
Authors: Bent Richard , Seaman Claire E.A. , Ingram Arthur
Published: July 2002

Examines the factors which affect staff motivation and satisfaction in small food businesses. Explores previous theories of motivation. Thirty‐eight small food processing and manufacturing companies in Scotland formed the sample. Interviews and open‐ended semi‐structured questionnaires were employed in the research. Results emphasise the importance of the management style of the owner/manager particularly when it comes to factors such as “lack of appreciation”, “poor communication” and “training”.
Sensory and instrumental texture evaluation of restructured shrimp
Authors: Meinert Elza Maria , Henrique Beirão Luiz , Teixeira Evanilda
Published: July 2002

Restructured shrimp made with three different formulations were evaluated using subjective and objective texture analysis. The three formulations showed statistical similarities with breaded whole shrimp in terms of gumminess and oily cover in mouth, and differed in relation to firmness, elasticity, cohesivity, adhesivity, moisture release, stickiness in mouth and overall texture impression. The objective texture evaluation showed significant differences in respect to cohesivity, adhesivity and gumminess between breaded whole shrimp and the three formulae, and in reference to hardness, between formulations.
Intelligent training motivates the HR and payroll teams
Authors: Williams Kellie‐Ann , Lovell Jane
Published: July 2002

IT training has assumed a pivotal role in the corporate world. Yet official bodies such as the Institute of IT Training claim that much of the investment will be wasted because courses are poorly conceived, over‐reliant on technical input, and fail to take into account the basic drivers which motivate people to learn.
Networking as a way of gaining business for training consultants
Authors: Williams Teresa
Published: July 2002

Training consultants who use networking to gain business can consider a variety of different strategies. There may well be a current backlash against some methods of networking such as “working the floor” at events for trainers. Other choices include networking with other providers of training, networking with other providers to form a consortium to put in bids, becoming the expert and advertising your expertise, highly targeted networking within a sector as well as many other strategies. Networking is a long‐term strategy based on trust, sincerity and reciprocity of relationships.
Small company “champions” IiP: disaster restoration firm finds training pays off
Authors: Armstrong Brian
Published: July 2002

The managing director of a small Essex company specialising in fire and flood restoration believes that education and training are the key to providing a top‐quality operation in the service industries. He describes how, in the absence of any other nationally‐recognised standards for this relatively new sector within the cleaning industry, his company initially introduced its own internal standards before looking to Investors in People accreditation for the external recognition it needed. With assistance and funding from the local Training and Enterprise Council, the company’s highly successful involvement with the IiP programme has helped it achieve not only high performance standards from its technical, administrative and managerial staff but also greater recognition within its potential client base in the insurance and premises and facilities management industries.
New Managerial Thinking
Authors: Alexander S. , Edwards R.A. , Smart N.W.
Published: July 2002

Discusses the new managerial model of the 1970s and 1980s which
emphasizes flatter, flexible, less bureaucratic organizations, with
increased employee awareness through training and development, and
suggests that actual research reveals frustration and opposition to
these ideas from trainees and employees. Problems in transferring to the
new model include the cultural difference between the UK and the
originating country, Japan; a rejection of the accompanying evangelical
language of America; the implication that those who oppose change are
merely lacking in “faith”; a bureaucratic paradox, or the discrepancy,
between claims and actual experience; and the selling of the model
within a “prescriptive consultancy” framework.
Inland Revenue
Authors: Greive Iain
Published: July 2002

The government has challenged public sector organizations to demonstrate
that they can provide the best service in terms of cost and quality. The
Achieving Management Potential (AMP) programme is an important part of
the Inland Revenue′s response to that challenge. In 1991 the IR drew up
an action plan highlighting the need for management to develop skills
that would enable them to lead the department through the required
culture change. Describes the scope of the design and implementation of
the programme.
Situating Learning in the Workplace – Having Another Look at
Apprenticeships
Authors: Billett Stephen
Published: July 2002

Examines the acquisition of vocational skills through
apprenticeship‐type situated learning. Presents findings from studies of
skilled workers revealing that learning processes that were consonant
with the apprenticeship model of learning were highly valued as a means
of acquiring and maintaining vocational skills. Supported by current
research and theorizing, describes some conditions by which situated
learning through apprenticeship can be utilized to develop vocational
skills. These conditixons include the nature of the activities learners
engage in, the agency of the learning environment and mentoring role of
experts. Addresses conditions which may inhibit the effectiveness of an
apprenticeship approach to learning. Concludes by suggesting that
situated approaches to learning, such as the apprenticeship model, may
address problems of access to effective vocational skill development
within the workforces.
Using Kolb: implementation and evaluation of facilitation skills
Authors: Sheehan Michael , Kearns Dan
Published: July 2002

Describes a case study in which the Kolb learning model was used in
the implementation and evaluation of a facilitation skills training
programme associated with organizational change. Demonstrates the
usefulness of experimental learning theory and Kolb′s learning model to
facilitator and participants in process evaluation. Achieves evaluation
without complex descriptions of learning theory and psychometric
instruments; simply relies on the model to guide participants through
the learning cycle. Suggests the approach may be used to encourage
participants to recognize their learning preferences and understand the
importance of exploring the full range of learning activities. To main
links between theory and application of facilitation skills,
participants kept a journal of their activities and learnings. Describes
how journalized comments were plotted on to sectors in the model which
described learning outcomes to serves as preliminary feedback of
participants′ learning experiences and the programme.
Business process re‐engineering and teleworking
Authors: Coulson‐Thomas Colin J.
Published: July 2002

Summarizes the results of a European Commission project led by the author, which has examined business re‐structuring across Europe and the relationship between business process re‐engineering (BPR) and new ways of working. Found that there are many ways other than BPR for achieving fundamental change and that most exercises being undertaken in the name of BPR are of an improvement nature and in some cases more radical improvements are being achieved by those adopting new patterns of work. Argues that BPR is failing to harness enough of the potential of people. Business processes rather than management support or learning processes are being re‐engineered. People are working harder rather than smarter.
Making university‐ industry co‐operation work for education and training
Authors: Muskett David
Published: July 2002

Looks in depth at the operation of the first undergraduate degree in retailing to be operated at the Manchester Metropolitan University by distance learning exclusively for J Sainsbury plc. Draws on experience and maps the dimensions of how this was accomplished. Makes some suggestions for making successful collaborative work between business and higher education, based on the experience of the university’s Department of Retailing and Marketing, particularly working together and growing to operate with mutual understanding.
The importance of the managerial hybrid
Authors: Rees W. David
Published: July 2002

Explains how most people with managerial responsibility have a specialist background. Also, most management may be undertaken by “hybrids” who combine specialist activity and managerial responsibility. Unless the process of converting specialists into part‐time or full‐time managers is carefully planned, management responsibilities may be neglected in favour of specialist activity. Key interventions are in the areas of role definition, selection, management development and monitoring.
Innovation in all things! Developing creativity in the workplace
Authors: Sharman Dave , Johnson Almeric
Published: July 2002

States the need for all managers into the next millennium to innovate and respond in new ways. Sets out a way in which managers can act differently in order to create a creative climate within their work groups. Sets this practical approach in the context of research carried out by Goran Ekvall on the creative climate of groups. Describes a sequence of activities, discovered by the authors, that was effective in stimulating the group problem‐solving climate and a technique for bringing back this atmosphere. Outlines this sequence, called “RAJiMAR” as the letters stand for the various stages of the group problem‐solving process: Reversal‐Absurdity‐Jokes‐incubation‐Metaphor‐Anchoring‐Recall.