bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure-Function Analysis of Nod Factor-Induced Root Hair Calcium Spiking in Rhizobium-Legume Symbiosis
Authors: Wais Rebecca J. , Keating David H. , Long Sharon R.
Published: July 2002

In the Rhizobium-legume symbiosis, compatible bacteria and host plants interact through an exchange of signals: Host compounds promote the expression of bacterial biosynthetic nod(nodulation) genes leading to the production of a lipochito-oligosaccharide signal, the Nod factor (NF). The particular array of nod genes carried by a given species ofRhizobium determines the NF structure synthesized and defines the range of legume hosts by which the bacterium is recognized. Purified NF can induce early host responses even in the absence of live Rhizobium One of the earliest known host responses to NF is an oscillatory behavior of cytoplasmic calcium, or calcium spiking, in root hair cells, initially observed in Medicago spp. and subsequently characterized in four other genera (D.W. Ehrhardt, R. Wais, S.R. Long [1996] Cell 85: 673–681; S.A. Walker, V. Viprey, J.A. Downie [2000] Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 97: 13413–13418; D.W. Ehrhardt, J.A. Downie, J. Harris, R.J. Wais, and S.R. Long, unpublished data). We sought to determine whether live Rhizobium trigger a rapid calcium spiking response and whether this response is NF dependent. We show that, in the Sinorhizobium meliloti-Medicago truncatula interaction, bacteria elicit a calcium spiking response that is indistinguishable from the response to purified NF. We determine that calcium spiking is a nod gene-dependent host response. Studies of calcium spiking in M. truncatula and alfalfa (Medicago sativa) also uncovered the possibility of differences in early NF signal transduction. We further demonstrate the sufficiency of thenod genes for inducing calcium spiking by usingEscherichia coli BL21 (DE3) engineered to express 11S. meliloti nod genes.
Biochemical and Molecular Inhibition of Plastidial Carbonic Anhydrase Reduces the Incorporation of Acetate into Lipids in Cotton Embryos and Tobacco Cell Suspensions and Leaves
Authors: Hoang Chau V. , Chapman Kent D.
Published: July 2002

Two cDNAs encoding functional carbonic anhydrase (CA) enzymes were recently isolated from a non-photosynthetic, cotyledon library of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) seedlings with putative plastid-targeting sequences (GenBank accession nos. AF132854 andAF132855). Relative CA transcript abundance and enzyme activity increased 9 and 15 times, respectively, in cotton embryos during the maximum period of reserve oil accumulation. Specific sulfonamide inhibitors of CA activity significantly reduced the rate of [14C]acetate incorporation into total lipids in cotton embryos in vivo, and in embryo plastids in vitro, suggesting a role for CA in plastid lipid biosynthesis. CA inhibitors did not affect acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase activity or total storage protein synthesis. Similar results were obtained for two other plant systems: cell suspensions (and isolated plastids therefrom) of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), and chloroplasts isolated from leaves of transgenic CA antisense-suppressed tobacco plants (5% of wild-type CA activity). In addition, tobacco cell suspensions treated with the CA inhibitor ethoxyzolamide showed a substantial loss of CO2 compared with controls. The rate of [14C]acetate incorporation into lipid in cell suspensions was reduced by limiting external [CO2] (scrubbed air), and this rate was further reduced in the presence of ethoxyzolamide. Together, these results indicate that a reduction of CA activity (biochemical or molecular inhibition) impacts the rate of plant lipid biosynthesis from acetate, perhaps by impairing the ability of CA to efficiently “trap” inorganic carbon inside plastids for utilization by acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase and the fatty acid synthesis machinery.
Sugar Accumulation in Grape Berries (Cloning of Two Putative Vacuolar Invertase cDNAs and Their Expression in Grapevine Tissues)
Authors: Davies C. , Robinson S. P.
Published: July 2002

During grape berry (Vitis vinifera L.) ripening, sucrose transported from the leaves is accumulated in the berry vacuoles as glucose and fructose. To study the involvement of invertase in grape berry ripening, we have cloned two cDNAs (GIN1 and GIN2) from berries. The cDNAs encode translation products that are 62% identical to each other and both appear to be vacuolar forms of invertase. Both genes are expressed in a variety of tissues, including berries, leaves, roots, seeds, and flowers, but the two genes have distinct patterns of expression. In grape berries, hexose accumulation began 8 weeks postflowering and continued until the fruit was ripe at 16 weeks. Invertase activity increased from flowering, was maximal 8 weeks postflowering, and remained constant on a per berry basis throughout ripening. Expression of GIN1 and GIN2 in berries, which was high early in berry development, declined greatly at the commencement of hexose accumulation. The results suggest that although vacuolar invertases are involved in hexose accumulation in grape berries, the expression of the genes and the synthesis of the enzymes precedes the onset of hexose accumulation by some weeks, so other mechanisms must be involved in regulating this process.
The Promoter for Tomato 3-Hydroxy-3-Methylglutaryl Coenzyme A Reductase Gene 2 Has Unusual Regulatory Elements That Direct High-Level Expression
Authors: Daraselia N. D. , Tarchevskaya S. , Narita J. O.
Published: July 2002

The promoter region of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase gene 2 (HMG2) has been analyzed using the transient expression of HMG2-luciferase fusions in red fruit pericarp. The mRNA for HMG2 accumulates to high levels during fruit ripening, in a pattern that coincides with the synthesis of the carotenoid lycopene. Unlike most promoters, the region that is upstream of the HMG2 TATA element is not required for high-level expression. The 180-bp region containing the TATA element, the 5[prime] untranslated region, and the translation start site are comparable in strength to the full-length 35S cauliflower mosaic virus promoter. Pyrimidine-rich sequences present in the 5[prime] untranslated leader are important in regulating expression. Also, the ATG start region has been found to increase translation efficiency by a factor of 4 to 10. An alternative hairpin secondary structure has been identified surrounding the HMG2 initiator ATG, which could participate in the translational regulation of this locus. HMG2 appears to be a novel class of strong plant promoters that incorporate unusual, positive regulators of gene expression.
Adenosine-5[prime]-Phosphate Deaminase (A Novel Herbicide Target)
Authors: Dancer J. E. , Hughes R. G. , Lindell S. D.
Published: July 2002

The isolation of carbocyclic coformycin as the herbicidally active component from a fermentation of Saccharothrix species was described previously (B.D. Bush, C.V. Fitchett, D.A. Gates, D. Langley [1993] Phytochemistry 32: 737–739). Here we report that the primary mode of action of carbocyclic coformycin has been identified as inhibition of the enzyme AMP deaminase (EC 3.5.4.6) following phosphorylation at the 5[prime] hydroxyl on the carbocyclic ring in vivo. When pea (Pisum sativum L. var Onward) seedlings are treated with carbocyclic coformycin, there is a very rapid and dramatic increase in ATP levels, indicating a perturbation in purine metabolism. Investigation of the enzymes of purine metabolism showed a decrease in the extractable activity of AMP deaminase that correlates with a strong, noncovalent association of the phosphorylated natural product with the protein. The 5[prime]-phosphate analog of the carbocyclic coformycin was synthesized and shown to be a potent, tight binding inhibitor of AMP deaminase isolated from pea seedlings. Through the use of a synthetic radiolabeled marker, rapid conversion of carbocyclic coformycin to the 5[prime]-phosphate analog could be demonstrated in vivo. It is proposed that inhibition of AMP deaminase leads to the death of the plant through perturbation of the intracellular ATP pool.
The massugu1 Mutation of Arabidopsis Identified with Failure of Auxin-Induced Growth Curvature of Hypocotyl Confers Auxin Insensitivity to Hypocotyl and Leaf
Authors: Watahiki M. K. , Yamamoto K. T.
Published: July 2002

Unilateral application of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) in a lanolin base to hypocotyls of partially etiolated seedlings of wild-type Arabidopsis thaliana induced growth curvature in a dose-dependent manner. The effects of IAA in concentrations from 1 to 1000 [mu]M were studied, with maximum IAA-induced curvature at 100 [mu]M. Three IAA-insensitive mutants were isolated and are all in the same locus, massugu1 (msg1). They did not undergo hypocotyl growth curvature at any of the IAA concentrations tested. msg1 is recessive and is located on chromosome 5. msg1 hypocotyl growth is resistant to 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), but the roots are as sensitive to 2,4-D as the wild type. Growth of the hypocotyl was inhibited to essentially the same extent as the wild type by 6-benzylaminopurine, abscisic acid, and l-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate, an ethylene precursor. The msg1 leaves were also resistant to 2,4-D-induced chlorosis. The gravitropic response of the msg1 hypocotyl takes much more time to initiate and achieve the wild-type degree of curvature, whereas the msg1 roots responded normally to gravity. The mature plants and the etiolated seedlings of msg1 were generally wild type in appearance, except that their rosette leaves were either epinastic or hyponastic. msg1 is the first auxin-insensitive mutant in which its effects are mostly restricted to the hypocotyl and leaf, and msg1 also appears to be auxin specific.
The Correlation of Profiles of Surface pH and Elongation Growth in Maize Roots
Authors: Peters Winfried S. , Felle Hubert H.
Published: July 2002

High-resolution profiles of surface pH and growth along vertically growing maize (Zea mays) primary root tips were determined simultaneously by pH-sensitive microelectrodes and marking experiments. Methodological tests were carried out that proved the reliability of our kinematic growth analysis, while questioning the validity of an alternative technique employed previously. A distal acidic zone around the meristematic region and a proximal one around the elongation zone proper were detected. This pattern as such persisted irrespective of the bulk pH value. The proximal acidic region coincided with maximum relative elemental growth rates (REGR), and both characters reacted in a correlated manner to auxin and cyanide. The distal acidic band was unrelated to growth, but was abolished by cyanide treatment. We conclude that: (a) the pattern of surface pH as such is a regulated feature of growing root tips; (b) the correlation of extracellular pH and growth rate suggests a functional relationship only along proximal portions of the growing root tip; and (c) the distal acidic band is not caused by pH buffering by root cap mucilage, as suggested previously, but rather is controlled by cellular activity.
Increasing Tryptophan Synthesis in a Forage LegumeAstragalus sinicusby Expressing the Tobacco Feedback-Insensitive Anthranilate Synthase (ASA2) Gene
Authors: Cho Hyeon-Je , Brotherton Jeffrey E. , Song Hee-Sook , Widholm Jack M.
Published: July 2002

A cDNA clone that encodes a feedback-insensitive anthranilate synthase (AS), ASA2, isolated from a 5-methyl-tryptophan (Trp) (5MT)-resistant tobacco cell line under the control of the constitutive cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter, was introduced into the forage legume Astragalus sinicus byAgrobacterium rhizogenes with kanamycin selection. The 35S-ASA2 gene was expressed constitutively as demonstrated by northern-blot hybridization analyses and the presence of feedback-insensitive AS. Hairy root lines transformed with 35S-ASA2 grew in concentrations of up to 100 μm 5MT, whereas the controls were completely inhibited by 15 μm 5MT. Expression of the feedback-insensitive ASA2 resulted in a 1.3- to 5.5-fold increase in free Trp. Kinetic studies of the AS activity demonstrate the Trp feedback alterations and indicate that the ASA2 α-subunit can interact with the native A. sinicus β-subunit to form an active enzyme. TheASA2 transcript and high free Trp were also detected in the leaves, stems, and roots of plants regenerated from the transformed hairy roots. Thus, we show for the first time that ASA2can be used to transform plants of a different species to increase the levels of the essential amino acid Trp and impart 5MT resistance.
Oligoguluronates Elicit an Oxidative Burst in the Brown Algal Kelp Laminaria digitata
Authors: Küpper Frithjof Christian , Kloareg Bernard , Guern Jean , Potin Philippe
Published: July 2002

Oligomeric degradation products of alginate elicited a respiratory and oxidative burst in the sporophytes of the kelp Laminaria digitata. The generation of activated oxygen species (AOS), O2  −, and H2O2 was detected at the single cell level, using nitroblue tetrazolium precipitation and a redox-sensitive fluorescent probe, respectively. The oxidative burst involved diphenyleneiodonium-sensitive AOS-generating machinery and its amplitude depended on the type of tissue. After a first elicitation plants were desensitized for about 3 h. The activity of alginate oligosaccharides was dose dependent, saturating around 40 μm. It was also structure-dependent, with homopolymeric blocks of α-1,4-l-guluronic acid, i.e. the functional analogs of oligogalacturonic blocks in pectins, being the most active signals. The perception of oligoguluronate signals resulted in a strong efflux of potassium. Pharmacological dissection of the early events preceding the emission of AOS indicated that the transduction chain of oligoguluronate signals in L. digitata is likely to feature protein kinases, phospholipase A2, as well as K+, Ca2+, and anion channels.
Evolution of Floral Meristem Identity Genes. Analysis ofLolium temulentum Genes Related to APETALA1 andLEAFY of Arabidopsis
Authors: Gocal Greg F.W. , King Rod W. , Blundell Cheryl A. , Schwartz Owen M. , Andersen Claus H. , Weigel Detlef
Published: July 2002

Flowering (inflorescence formation) of the grass Lolium temulentum is strictly regulated, occurring rapidly on exposure to a single long day (LD). During floral induction, L. temulentum differs significantly from dicot species such as Arabidopsis in the expression, at the shoot apex, of twoAPETALA1 (AP1)-like genes, LtMADS1 andLtMADS2, and of L. temulentum LEAFY(LtLFY). As shown by in situ hybridization,LtMADS1 and LtMADS2 are expressed in the vegetative shoot apical meristem, but expression increases strongly within 30 h of LD floral induction. Later in floral development,LtMADS1 and LtMADS2 are expressed within spikelet and floret meristems and in the glume and lemma primordia. It is interesting that LtLFY is detected quite late (about 12 d after LD induction) within the spikelet meristems, glumes, and lemma primordia. These patterns contrast with Arabidopsis, whereLFY and AP1 are consecutively activated early during flower formation. LtMADS2, when expressed in transgenic Arabidopsis plants under the control of theAP1 promoter, could partially complement the organ number defect of the severe ap1-15 mutant allele, confirming a close relationship between LtMADS2 andAP1.
The Heme-Oxygenase Family Required for Phytochrome Chromophore Biosynthesis Is Necessary for Proper Photomorphogenesis in Higher Plants
Authors: Davis Seth J. , Bhoo Seong Hee , Durski Adam M. , Walker Joseph M. , Vierstra Richard D.
Published: July 2002

The committed step in the biosynthesis of the phytochrome chromophore phytochromobilin involves the oxidative cleavage of heme by a heme oxygenase (HO) to form biliverdin IXα. Through positional cloning of the photomorphogenic mutant hy1, the Arabidopsis HO (designated AtHO1) responsible for much of phytochromobilin synthesis recently was identified. Using theAtHO1 sequence, we identified families ofHO genes in a number of plants that cluster into two subfamilies (HO1- and HO2-like). The tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) yg-2 andNicotiana plumbaginifolia pew1 photomorphogenic mutants are defective in specific HO genes. Phenotypic analysis of a T-DNA insertion mutant of Arabidopsis HO2 revealed that the second HO subfamily also contributes to phytochromobilin synthesis. Homozygous ho2-1 plants show decreased chlorophyll accumulation, reduced growth rate, accelerated flowering time, and reduced de-etiolation. A mixture of apo- and holo-phyA was detected in etiolated ho2-1 seedlings, suggesting that phytochromobilin is limiting in this mutant, even in the presence of functional AtHO1. The patterns of ArabidopsisHO1 and HO2 expression suggest that the products of both genes overlap temporally and spatially. Taken together, the family of HOs is important for phytochrome-mediated development in a number of plants and that each family member may uniquely contribute to the phytochromobilin pool needed to assemble holo-phytochromes.
Developing expertise through training
Authors: Cornford Ian , Athanasou James
Published: July 2002

The ways in which expert workers differ from novices is principally
in the amount of specific skills that they possess and the ways they
have organized their knowledge. Highlights the advantages of aiming for
expertise rather than competence. Also outlines the stages in the
development of expertise. Provides examples from industry to show that
occupational expertise is practical, informal in nature and only rarely,
if ever, taught. Discusses implications for on‐the‐job training in major
industries. Shows that expertise is based on case knowledge and problem
solving.
Training options at university: the “SEF” experience
Authors: Beas‐Collado María Isabel , Llorens‐Gumbau Susana , Pinazo‐Calatayud Daniel
Published: July 2002

The SEF – Servicio de Empleo y Formación – (Employment and Training Service) is an innovative, educational and research enterprise created by the Social Psychology Department within the University Jaume I, in Castellón. Its main goal consists of achieving a linkage between the University and the labour market. SEF seeks to advise about transition from education to the labour market, provide professional training for students and graduates, and undertake research and external consulting. The case study describes how SEF achieves its aims and objectives through a series of innovative activities: internships, courses bearing full credits, complementary training, and research projects for students in postgraduate courses.
Combining academic rigour and transferable skills: a business
degree for the 1990s
Authors: Monks Kathy
Published: July 2002

Reports on the process by which the undergraduate business degree
in Dublin City University Business School was redesigned. Gives a
description of the background research which was undertaken as part of
the revision process and describes the new programme, which is
structured around four elements: core subjects, electives, specialisms
and skills. The degree is designed to combine academic rigour with
transferable skills and to encourage in students a spirit of enterprise.
Transcendental leadership
Authors: Cardona Pablo
Published: July 2002

Looks at leadership from a relational perspective. This perspective focuses on the relationship that is created between a leader and a collaborator. We call this relationship a partnership, and distinguish three types of partnerships: transactional, transformational, and transcendental. The type of partnership that the leader is able to create, determines the quality of the collaborator’s following behaviors, and demonstrates sets of values and behaviors that the leader shows in action. Transcendental leadership adds to the transformational one a service orientation, which solves the possible manipulative side of tranformational leaders.
An empirical taxonomy of advanced manufacturing technology
Authors: Jonsson Patrik
Published: July 2002

An empirical advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) taxonomy with three groups was identified from cluster analysis. The analysis was based on a survey of Swedish metal‐working industries and 324 relevant responses were received (response rate of 38 percent). The first group, “the traditionalists” is characterised by firms of relatively small size with low levels of investments in AMT. “The hard integrators” emphasise computerised transactions between sub‐units and processes to a larger extent than the investment in administrative, design and manufacturing technologies. “The high investors” group contains relatively large firms that have invested in most technologies and have computerised their transactions significantly more than both the other groups. Companies with heavy investments in AMT had developed the infrastructure (worker empowerment, improvement programmes and organisational design) and maintenance (prevention and integration) aspects to a greater extent than low investors. They also performed better.
High power diode laser transmission welding of plastics
Authors: Bryden Brian
Published: July 2002

Trials using high powered laser arrays recently available, have shown that a range of joining and surface treatment processes are possible. These range from transmission welding of polymeric materials to surface hardening, soldering and welding of steels.
Features Rapid growth for rapid prototyping
Authors: Kochan Anna
Published: July 2002

Describes applications of rapid prototyping in the automotive, healthcare and jewellery industries. Explains how Ford Motor Co.’s use of RP technology has evolved since it first used stereolithography in 1988. Outlines the benefits of RP applications in jewellery design and how RP helped Smith & Nephew to arrive at the optimum bottle shape for a new healthcare product.
Strategic needs analysis: its role in brief development
Authors: Smith Jim , Jackson Norm
Published: July 2002

A great deal of international research has been focussed on the client briefing stage of projects and facilities. The authors have studied this research and propose a method of advising clients at the strategic or pre‐design stage. This approach is termed strategic needs analysis. This technique analyses and reviews client objectives, proposes alternatives and confronts participants with making choices. A case study based on testing the technique in Melbourne, Australia, is presented. Management briefings, participant selection, interactive workshops, and the use of neural network‐based software forms part of the structure for strategic decision making. Facilities managers can provide vital information to this process and inform decision making at this critical stage. The role of the construction disciplines in this process is discussed and the new skills required by this profession are presented.
Crisis management: a survey of property development firms
Authors: Sui Pheng Low , Ho David K.H. , Soon Ann Yeap
Published: July 2002

A study of property developers in Singapore showed that their crisis management capabilities are influenced by their size and opinion. Developers generally concentrate on preparing formal procedures to deal with crises pertaining to breakdowns. Explicit procedures to deal with crises in the areas of psychopathology and human resource factors were often found lacking. Few developers implement damage containment mechanisms for external information attack and human resource factors, much less effect the same for psychopathic attacks. Developers have identified the key personnel, tasks, services and products necessary to conduct business operations. However, the ability of developers to recover from crisis situations is hampered by the lack of alternative sites for their critical operations and backups to crucial business function. Although it is the requirement of the developers to discuss the lessons learned for those involved in accidents and crisis, the ability to learn from past mistakes is often impeded by the assignment of blame.
Notes on document supply in the Middle East
Authors: Vassie Roderic
Published: July 2002

This overview of document supply in the Middle East divides the countries of the region into four groups: GCC states; Iran and Iraq; Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and Turkey; and finally, Israel. This grouping is based on the varying economic conditions amongst the members of each, both historically and in terms of their diversification. The conclusion reached is that, whilst economic conditions are important in influencing the ability to pay for document supply services, they are more importantly a deciding factor in determining the perception of their usefulness. This perception in turn influences a society’s willingness to incorporate document supply within its policies and plans on research information access and infrastructure.
Inverse problems in finite element simulation of metal forming processes
Authors: Chenot Jean‐Loup , Massoni E. , Fourment JL.
Published: July 2002

Focuses on the inverse problems arising from the simulation of forming processes. Considers two sets of problems: parameter identification and shape optimization. Both are solved using an optimization method for the minimization of a suitable objective function. The convergence and convergence rate of the method depend on the accuracy of the derivatives of this function. The sensitivity analysis is based on a discrete approach, e.g. the differentiation of the discrete problem equations. Describes the method for non‐linear, non‐steady‐state‐forming problems involving contact evolution. First, it is applied to the parameter identification and to the torsion test. It shows good convergence properties and proves to be very efficient for the identification of the material behaviour. Then, it is applied to the tool shape optimization in forging for a two‐step process. A few iterations of the inverse method make it possible to suggest a suitable shape for the preforming tools.
Generation of ground structures for 2D and 3D design domains
Authors: da Silva Smith Ole
Published: July 2002

Introducing the concept of a design domain to truss topology optimization, this paper presents an algorithm generating geometrically admissible ground structures on possibly concave (or even disconnected) 3D design domains. That is a set of connections between nodal points actually respecting the geometry of the design domain. Since ground structures may be applied in other contexts the presentation does not assume any specifics of truss topology optimization. However, in the example section an application of ground structures in a truss topology optimization problem may be found.
Dual boundary element analysis for cracked bars under torsion
Authors: Chen J.T. , Chen K.H. , Yeih W. , Shieh N.C.
Published: July 2002

A dual integral formulation for a cracked bar under torsion is derived, and a dual boundary element method is implemented. It is shown that as the thickness of the crack becomes thinner, the ill‐posedness for the linear algebraic matrix becomes more serious if the conventional BEM is used. Numerical experiments for solution instability due to ill‐posedness are shown. To deal with this difficulty, the hypersingular equation of the dual boundary integral formulation is employed to obtain an independent constraint equation for the boundary unknowns. For the sake of computational efficiency, the area integral for the torsion rigidity is transformed into two boundary integrals by using Green’s second identity and divergence theorem. Finally, the torsion rigidities for cracks with different lengths and orientations are solved by using the dual BEM, and the results compare well with the analytical solutions and FEM results.
A construct‐oriented analysis of individual‐level polychronicity
Authors: Conte Jeffrey M. , Rizzuto Tracey E. , Steiner Dirk D.
Published: July 2002

This paper provided construct validity evidence for polychronicity in two related studies. Study 1 assessed the relationship between individuals’ stated polychronicity preferences and peer ratings of polychronicity in a multitrait‐multimethod design, which indicated that different raters were able to agree about an individual’s polychronicity. Additional construct validity evidence was provided by linking polychronicity to several potentially related constructs such as achievement striving, impatience/irritability, stress, and performance. In study 2, hypothesized relationships between polychronicity and both time urgency and time management behavior dimensions were supported. In addition, similar relationships between polychronicity and time urgency dimensions were identified across French and US samples. Together, these two studies provide a clearer understanding of the correlates and potential outcomes of polychronicity. Directions for future research are also discussed.
Basic estimate of needs for training in evidence‐based medicine in Slovakia
Authors: Bacharova Ljuba , Hlavacka Svatopluk , Rusnakova Viera
Published: July 2002

This study reports the findings of the first survey of the knowledge and needs for training in evidence based medicine (EBM) of health‐care workers in Slovakia. This study was primarily qualitative and based on a triangular approach, which included: analysis of the situation in pre‐ and postgraduate education in Slovakia aimed at estimating needs in EBM and critical appraisal skills (CAS) training; analysis of questionnaires distributed in a sample of medical doctors and university educated public health workers undergoing postgraduate training; and focus group discussions. The findings revealed a real gap in knowledge in EBM and CAS in Slovakia and identified several areas as the focus for intervention. The results showed also some important behavioural and cultural aspects, including low individual responsibility for education; tendency to delegate responsibility to authorities (experts, top management, Ministry of Health); and persistence of the state paternalistic type of education. Concludes that managers planning to implement EBM in Slovakia should therefore consider a broader behavioural and cultural context for change, not just introduction of a training EBM module.
Beyond the frame of management competenc(i)es: towards a contextually embedded framework of managerial competence in organizations
Authors: Stuart Roger , Lindsay Philip
Published: July 2002

Work on managerial competence has largely been characterized by being narrowly focused, fragmented and confusing in its terminology. Further, it has often failed to deal with issues of organizational specificity and the widely different contexts for managerial performance. Additionally, the work has mainly been located in and applied to lower level managers in the larger, often multinational organizations. Finally, the focus of much competence work has been on individual managers and has often taken little account of teamworking. Describes a contextually embedded framework of managerial competence which is targeted on top teams in small to medium‐sized enterprises. The framework identifies and distinguishes the key foci for clearly defining managerial competence, and beyond that, serves to locate existing competency frames in a single and coherent whole. The framework also explicitly recognizes organizational context as an important influence on ‐ indeed determinant of ‐ managerial competence in situ. Uses the concept of a lens of organizational competence to bridge environmental and organizational cultural variables with top team concerns and capabilities.
Five decades of information theory: successes, disappointments, prospects
Authors: Jumarie Guy
Published: July 2002

Surveys some of the important contributions of information theory (IT) to the understanding of systems science and cybernetics. Presents a short background on the main definitions of IT, and examines in which way IT could be thought of as a unified approach to general systems. Analyses the topics: syntax and semantics in information, information and self‐organization, entropy of forms (entropy of non‐random functions), and information in dynamical systems. Enumerates some suggestions for further research and takes this opportunity to describe new points of view, mainly by using entropy of non‐random functions.
Searching for excellence in business education: an exploratory study of customer impressions of service quality
Authors: LeBlanc Gaston , Nguyen Nha
Published: July 2002

Examines the concept of service quality in business education with data collected from 388 students. Identifies seven factors which influence student evaluations of service quality. In descending order of importance these factors are: reputation, administrative personnel, faculty, curriculum, responsiveness, physical evidence and access to facilities. Describes the implications for controlling quality and for achieving excellence in business education.
Listening to the customer’s voice: examining perceived service value among business college students
Authors: LeBlanc Gaston , Nguyen Nha
Published: July 2002

This article examines the concept of service value in business education with data collected from 402 students of a small business school. A set of factors were found to impact on students’ evaluation of value during their educational experience. More precisely, the results indicate that the relationship between price and quality, the knowledge acquired, the economic utility of a business degree, image, as well as social and emotional value, are important drivers of value in business education. Moreover, when comparing value judgements on the basis of gender and year of study, the results show that male students are more inclined to focus on social value during service consumption, and that females are more critical of the price/quality relationship as it relates to value. Overall, the results show that as students progress in their studies they are less likely to believe that a business degree will guarantee a good salary and career advancements. Conversely, a positive affective response toward the business school is observed over time. Implications for formulating strategies that promise to create and foster service value in business education are given.
European managers: HRM and an evolving role
Authors: Holden Len , Roberts Ian
Published: July 2002

Based on research carried out in three European countries, Sweden, The Netherlands and the UK, the following text highlights the experiences and perceptions of European managers in organisational and managerial contexts. The findings reveal a number of convergent trends manifested through the experiences and consciousness of middle managers. What is specifically highlighted is the transformation of the role of manager in Europe against the background of a multitude of contingent influences; not only in the practices of middle management function but also in the cacophony of the accompanying discourses. It is posited that structured HRM support can considerably aid the middle manager to cope with the contradictory role demanded by this new world of work; and, paradoxically, it is a plea for self managed learning conducted by middle managers themselves within an HRM supportive environment.
Educational change in Southeast Asia
Authors: Hallinger Philip
Published: July 2002

Examines the rapidly changing context of educational change in Southeast Asia. In particular, it explores the impact of a changing global educational ideal, multiculturalism, and technological innovation on the purposes and practices of schooling in this region. Argues that the unprecedented pace and scope of change in the region require an approach to educational reform rather than simply the capacity to implement new reform policies. Discusses how the concept of a learning organization might inform the role of system leaders in fostering educational change in these rapidly developing nations.
Delivering distance education through technology: a pioneer’s experience
Authors: Raymond Frank B.
Published: July 2002

Recent developments in technology have provided educators with an extremely wide variety of electronic tools to assist them in achieving one of their primary objectives – the transmission of knowledge to others. One of the most important uses of these technologies in higher education has been their employment for the delivery of distance education. This article describes the types of technology available for the delivery of distance education (computer‐assisted education systems, audio/video‐mediated education systems, and computer‐mediated education systems), and has documented the effectiveness of these tools. It also discusses the successful experience of the school that pioneered the use of technology to deliver distance in the discipline of social work.
A buyer behaviour framework for the development and design of software agents in e‐commerce
Authors: Sproule Susan , Archer Norm
Published: July 2002

Software agents are computer programs that run in the background and perform tasks autonomously as delegated by the user. Although there has been much research on this topic recently, usable software agents are at an early stage of development, and are only now starting to appear in real applications. Typical of these early stages, there has been a technology focus, rather than a product focus, in much of the development work to date. A fruitful application area for software agents is in the area of e‐commerce, where potential buyers can easily be overwhelmed by the flood of information that is available, thus potentially making less than optimal purchasing decisions. This paper blends models from marketing and learnings from the field of decision support systems to build a framework for the design of software agents to support in e‐commerce buying applications.
Consumer cost differences for traditional and Internet markets
Authors: Strader Troy J. , Shaw Michael J.
Published: July 2002

In this paper we address research issues related to the economics of electronic, Internet‐based markets. First, what are the consumer cost‐based differences for traditional and electronic markets? Second, what revenue implications does increased electronic market utilization have for sellers and transaction intermediaries? Based on an empirical, survey‐based study of an electronic market in the sports trading card industry we find that prices, search costs, and sales taxes are lower in the electronic markets, while risk costs, distribution costs, and market costs are lower in traditional markets. We discuss the implications this has for seller, intermediary and government revenue sources.
Reducing the surface deviation of stereolithography using in‐process techniques
Authors: Reeves Philip E. , Cobb Richard C.
Published: July 2002

Builds on previous research by the authors to establish a mathematical representation of the surface roughness of stereolithography (SL) parts. It is the intention of the research to use this modelling technique as a design tool for defining optimum build orientation and planning post‐process finishing operations. During the development of this model, a number of in‐process attributes inherent in SL were seen to affect surface deviation. Most notably the phenomenon known as “print‐through” on down‐facing planes produces a build orientation envelope of very smooth surfaces. Although capable of providing low roughness over some 50°, print‐through smoothing cannot easily be extended to other angles, hence complementary processes for surface smoothing must be developed. Discusses a number of possible solutions, showing how the generation of a meniscus between layers can prove beneficial in reducing SL surface roughness, hence reducing the need for lengthy manual finishing operations.
Chemical characteristics of dimer interfaces in the legume lectin family
Authors: Elgavish Sharona , Shaanan Boaz
Published: July 2002

The Erythrina corallodendron lectin (EcorL) crystallizes in monoclinic and hexagonal crystal forms. Comparison of the newly determined hexagonal form (PDB code 1fyu) with the monoclinic form shows that the dimeric structure of EcorL reflects the inherent biological structure of the protein and is not an artifact of the crystal packing. To further understand the factors determining the dimerization modes of legume lectins, EcorL, concanavalin A (ConA), and Griffonia simplicifolia (GS4) were taken as representatives of the three unique dimers found in the family. Six virtual homodimers were generated. The hydropathy, amino acid composition, and solvation energy were calculated for all nine homodimers. Each of the three native dimers has a distinct chemical composition. EcorL has a dominant hydrophobic component, and ConA has a strong polar component, but in GS4 the three components contribute equally to the interface. This distribution pattern at the interface is unique to the native dimers and distinct from the partition observed in the virtual dimers. Amino acid composition of other members of the family that dimerize like EcorL or ConA maintain the same pattern of amino acids distribution observed in EcorL and ConA. However, lectins that dimerize like GS4 do not show a particularly distinct distribution. In all cases, the calculated solvation energy of the native dimer was lower than that of the virtual dimers, suggesting that the observed mode of dimerization is the most stable organization for the given sequence and tertiary structure. The dimerization type cannot be predicted by sequence analysis.
Enhancement of presynaptic calcium current by cysteine string protein
Authors: Chen Shan , Zheng Xu , Schulze Karen L. , Morris Terry , Bellen Hugo , Stanley Elis F.
Published: July 2002

The isolated chick ciliary neuron calyx synapse preparation was used to test cysteine string protein (CSP) action on presynaptic N‐type Ca2+ channels. Endogenous CSP was localized primarily to secretory vesicle clusters in the presynaptic nerve terminal. Introduction of recombinant CSP into the voltage clamped terminal resulted in a prominent increase in Ca2+ current amplitude. However, this increase could not be attributed to a change in Ca2+ channel kinetics, voltage dependence, prepulse inactivation, or G protein inhibition but was attributed to the recruitment of dormant channels. Secretory vesicle associated endogenous CSP may play an important role in enhancing Ca2+ channel activity at the transmitter release site.
Calcineurin and cardiac hypertrophy: Where have we been? Where are we going?
Authors: Wilkins Benjamin J. , Molkentin Jeffery D.
Published: July 2002

The heart is a dynamic organ capable of adapting its size and architecture in response to alterations in workload associated with developmental maturation, physiological stimulation and pathological diseases. Such alterations in heart size typically result from the hypertrophic growth of individual myocytes, but not myocyte cellular proliferation. In recent years, a great deal of investigation has gone toward elucidating the molecular signalling machinery that underlies the hypertrophic response and manner in which increased cardiac load promotes alterations in gene expression. To this end, the Ca2+‐calmodulin‐activated phosphatase calcineurin has been proposed as a necessary component of the multi‐pathway hypertrophy program in the heart. Despite initial controversy over this hypothesis due to disparate results from pharmacological inhibitory studies in animal models of hypertrophy, compelling data from genetic models with calcineurin inhibition now exist. This review will summarize many of these studies and will attempt to address a number of unanswered issues. In particular, specific downstream mediators of calcineurin signalling will be discussed, as well as the need to identify calcineurin's temporal activation profile, transcriptional targets and cross‐communication with other reactive signalling pathways in the heart. Finally, we will present evidence suggesting that calcineurin, as a Ca2+‐responsive enzyme, may function as an internal load sensor in cardiac myocytes, matching output demands to hypertrophic growth.
Coding of Shared Track Gray Encoder
Authors: Yan Xiren , Wang Qiyi
Published: July 2002

A conventional absolute encoder consists of multiple tracks and therefore has a large size. Based on the theory of shared control, a new kind of absolute encoder called the shared track Gray encoder is proposed. This encoder has only one track, and the code has the characteristics of Gray code. In this paper, first the working principle of the encoder is introduced and the existence condition of the codes for the shared track Gray encoder is derived. Then the search procedure for the codes using self-developed assembler programs is given. Finally, the pattern of the encoder is presented. Since the shared track Gray encoder has only one track and the code is progressive, it is much smaller in size and higher in accuracy than a conventional one. [S0022-0434(00)01503-3]
A Sequential Optimization Algorithm Using Logarithmic Barriers: Applications to Structural Optimization
Authors: Kumar Ashok V.
Published: July 2002

A sequential approximation algorithm is presented here that is particularly suited for problems in engineering design and structural optimization, where the number of variables is very large and function and sensitivity evaluations are computationally expensive. A sequence of sub-problems are generated using a linear approximation for the objective function and setting move limits on the variables using a barrier method. These sub-problems are strictly convex and computation per iteration is significantly reduced by not solving the sub-problems exactly. Instead a few Newton-steps are taken for each sub-problem generated. A criterion, for setting the move limit, is described that reduces or eliminates step size reduction during line search. The method was found to perform well for unconstrained and linearly constrained optimization problems. It is particularly suitable for application to design of optimal shape and topology of structures by minimizing their compliance since it requires very few function evaluations, does not require the hessian of the objective function and evaluates its gradient only once for every sub-problem generated. [S1050-0472(00)01603-2]
Thermal and Mechanical Loading Effects on the Reliability of Organic Flip Chip Package
Authors: Goh Teck Joo
Published: July 2002

The silicon die of an organic flip chip assembly is exposed to external mechanical loads during component testing and heat sink attachment. These loads can potentially cause package to flexure and may eventually lead to severe damage in the die and package. A comprehensive evaluation has been conducted to determine the maximum loading limit of organic flip chip package through design of experiment (DOE) approach. A material testing system has been utilized to simulate various loading conditions (ranging from 15 lb to 200 lb) on organic flip-chip test vehicles (FTV) during heat sink attachment. The effects of permanent mechanical loading and thermal cyclic loading on the reliability of FTV structures are also investigated in this study. Three-dimensional finite element models (FEM) of FTV have been employed to aid in understanding the mechanical behavior of silicon die and organic substrate under both loading conditions. Shadow Moire´ technique has been used to measure the out-of-plane residual deformation of the FTV that underwent simulated loading conditions. These components were then visually inspected and tested functionally. Results were summarized and used as indicator of package reliability.
Foreword
Authors: Pelegri Assimina (Mina) A. , Chan Wen C. , Haque Anwar , Vaidya Uday K.
Published: July 2002

[S0094-4289(00)03304-1]