Showing papers by "Brunel University London published in 2001"

Technologies, Texts and Affordances:

Abstract: In contrast to recent sociological emphases on the social shaping of technology, this article proposes and illustrates a way of analysing the technological shaping of sociality. Drawing on the concept of affordances (Gibson 1979), the article argues for a recognition of the constraining, as well as enabling, materiality of artefacts. The argument is set in the theoretical context of one of the most recent and comprehensive statements of anti-essentialism (Grint and Woolgar 1997). The position is illustrated through a reinterpretation of some case studies used by proponents of the radical constructivist position.

Search-based software engineering

Abstract: This paper claims that a new field of software engineering research and practice is emerging: search-based software engineering. The paper argues that software engineering is ideal for the application of metaheuristic search techniques, such as genetic algorithms, simulated annealing and tabu search. Such search-based techniques could provide solutions to the difficult problems of balancing competing (and some times inconsistent) constraints and may suggest ways of finding acceptable solutions in situations where perfect solutions are either theoretically impossible or practically infeasible. In order to develop the field of search-based software engineering, a reformulation of classic software engineering problems as search problems is required. The paper briefly sets out key ingredients for successful reformulation and evaluation criteria for search-based software engineering.

Scarring: The Psychological Impact of Past Unemployment

Abstract: This paper considers the psychological impact of past unemployment. Using 11 waves of German panel data, we show that life satisfaction is lower not only for the current unemployed (relative to the employed), but also for those with higher levels of past unemployment. However, the negative wellbeing effect of current unemployment is weaker for those who have been unemployed more often in the past. The panel data also reveal some evidence that those suffering greater falls in wellbeing on entering unemployment are less likely to remain unemployed one year later. Together, these findings offer a psychological explanation of persistent unemployment.

Effects of the synthetic estrogen 17α‐ethinylestradiol on the life‐cycle of the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas)

Abstract: A fish full life-cycle (FFLC) study was conducted for 17 alpha-ethinylestradiol (EE2) using the fathead minnow, Pimephales promelas. Newly fertilized embryos ( or = 70% of nominal. For the F0 adult phase until 301 d posthatch, the no-observed-effect concentrations (NOECs) for growth, survival, and reproduction (as egg production) were all > or = 1.0 ng/L. The NOEC values for F1 embryo hatching success and larval survival (at 28 d posthatch) were both > or = 1.0 ng/L. While statistically detectable changes in F1 growth were evident at 0.2 ng/L, these were not considered to be biologically significant when compared with historical control data. Male fish exposed to EE2 at 4.0 ng/L failed to develop normal secondary sexual characteristics; on the other hand, assumed females exposed to this level of EE2 were able to breed when paired with males that had not been exposed to EE2. Histology of F0 control, 0.2-, and 1-ng/L exposed fish at 56 d posthatch indicated an approximate female-to-male (F:M) sex ratio of 50:50 (with no ovatestes observed in the control), while fish exposed to EE2 at 4.0 ng/L for 56 d posthatch had a F:M sex ratio of 84:5 (with ovatestes in 11% of fish). After 172 d posthatch, no testicular tissue was observed in any fish exposed to EE2 at 4.0 ng/L. At the same time point, plasma vitellogenin levels were significantly higher in fish exposed to EE2 at 16 ng/L. A lack of sexual differentiation occurred in males at concentrations > or = 4.0 ng/L. Taking into account these data, the overall no-observed-adverse-effect concentration was considered to be 1.0 ng/L.

Removal of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in activated sludge treatment works

Abstract: The release of endocrine-disrupting chemicals into the aquatic environment has raised the awareness of the central role played by sewage treatment in lowland water quality. This review focuses on the activated sludge process, which is commonly used to treat sewage in large towns and cities and which successfully removes the bulk of the organic compounds that enter the works. However, not all compounds are completely broken down or converted to biomass. For example, the estrogenic alkylphenols and steroid estrogens found in effluent are the breakdown products of incomplete breakdown of their respective parent compounds. Batch microcosm studies have indicated that estrone, ethinylestradiol, and alkylphenols will not be completely eliminated in activated sludge over typical treatment times. Field data suggest that the activated sludge treatment process can consistently remove over 85% of estradiol, estriol, and ethinylestradiol. The removal performance for estrone appears to be less and is more variable. Because of its relatively high hydrophobicity, the accumulation of alkylphenol in sludge has been observed. Although it has not been examined, accumulation of ethinylestradiol in sludge is a possibility due to its recalcitrance and hydrophobicity. A comparison between the concentrations of some of the major endocrine-active chemicals in effluents and their biological potencies has been made, to direct attention to the chemicals of most concern. While water purification techniques such as UV or activated charcoal could significantly remove these microorganic contaminants, the high costs involved suggest that research into the potential for treatment optimization should receive more attention.

Dealing with mobility: understanding access anytime, anywhere

Abstract: The rapid and accelerating move towards use of mobile technologies has increasingly provided people and organizations with the ability to work away from the office and on the move. The new ways of working afforded by these technologies are often characterized in terms of access to information and people anytime, anywhere. This article presents a study of mobile workers that highlights different facets of access to remote people and information, and different facets of anytime, anywhere. Four key factors in mobile work are identified: the role of planning, working in "dead time," accessing remote technological and informational resources, and monitoring the activities of remote colleagues. By reflecting on these issues, we can better understand the role of technology and artifacts in mobile work and identify the opportunities for the development of appropriate technological solutions to support mobile workers.

Constructing the scientific citizen: Science and democracy in the biosciences

Abstract: The relationship between science policy and public opinion has become a lively topic in the UK - especially with regard to the BSE crisis and genetically modified foods. A number of governmental publications have recently advocated greater public dialogue and engagement. In this general context, the paper explores the configuration of scientific citizenship and of the scientific citizen within policy and consultation processes. Building upon a detailed examination of one important social experiment - the Public Consultation on Developments in the Biosciences - the social construction of both science and public consultation is considered. With particular attention to the framing of issues for public debate, the constitution of audience and the construction of citizenship, the paper argues the need to move beyond mere sloganizing over science and democracy. The discussion concludes with a presentation of competing technologies of community and an assessment of their significance for the future practice of s...

Adapting visual methods: action research with Kampala street children

Abstract: The paper examines the use of four visual ‘action’ methods for eliciting information from street children about their interactions with the socio-spatial environment. These methods were adapted and used to encourage child-led activities and minimize researcher input. The advantages and constraints associated with the successful implementation of visual methods with children are examined, followed by a brief examination of the ‘real’ and ethical considerations surrounding their use. The paper concludes that visual methods allow a high level of child-led participation in research, as well as providing a stimulus for eliciting further oral material.

Radiation hard silicon detectors—developments by the RD48 (ROSE) collaboration

Abstract: The RD48 (ROSE) collaboration has succeeded to develop radiation hard silicon detectors, capable to withstand the harsh hadron fluences in the tracking areas of LHC experiments. In order to reach this objective, a defect engineering technique was employed resulting in the development of Oxygen enriched FZ silicon (DOFZ), ensuring the necessary O-enrichment of about 2×1017 O/cm3 in the normal detector processing. Systematic investigations have been carried out on various standard and oxygenated silicon diodes with neutron, proton and pion irradiation up to a fluence of 5×1014 cm−2 (1 MeV neutron equivalent). Major focus is on the changes of the effective doping concentration (depletion voltage). Other aspects (reverse current, charge collection) are covered too and the appreciable benefits obtained with DOFZ silicon in radiation tolerance for charged hadrons are outlined. The results are reliably described by the “Hamburg model”: its application to LHC experimental conditions is shown, demonstrating the superiority of the defect engineered silicon. Microscopic aspects of damage effects are also discussed, including differences due to charged and neutral hadron irradiation.

A Taxonomy of Business Process Modeling and Information Systems Modeling Techniques

Abstract: Modeling always has been at the core of both organizational design and information systems (IS) development. Models enable decision makers to filter out the irrelevant complexities of the real world, so that efforts can be directed toward the most important parts of the system under study. However, both business analysts and IS professionals may find it difficult to navigate through a maze of theoretical paradigms, methodological approaches, and representational formalisms that have been proposed for both business process modeling (BPM) and information systems modeling (ISM). This paper sets out to put an order to this chaos by proposing an evaluation framework and a novel taxonomy of BPM and ISM techniques. These findings, coupled with a detailed review of BPM and ISM techniques, can assist decision makers in comparatively evaluating and selecting suitable modeling techniques, depending on the characteristics and requirements of individual projects.

Reproductive effects of long-term exposure to Bisphenol A in the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas).

Abstract: Bisphenol A (BPA), a high-volume chemical used to make polycarbonate plastic, epoxy resins, and other chemicals has been reported to be weakly estrogenic. To investigate the effects of long-term exposure to Bisphenol A, a multigeneration study was conducted in which fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) were exposed to water concentrations of BPA in the range from 1 to 1280 micrograms/L. In this paper, we report the growth and reproductive effects of BPA on sexually mature adults in the F0 generation (after 43, 71, and 164 d of exposure) and the effects on hatchability in the F1 generation. Mean measured concentrations of BPA in the water for all doses, over a 164-d exposure period, were between 70% and 96% of nominal. An inhibitory effect of BPA on somatic growth (length and weight) occurred in adult male fish exposed to 640 and 1280 micrograms/L (after 71 and 164 d). BPA induced vitellogenin synthesis (VTG; a biomarker for estrogen exposure) in males at concentrations of 640 and 1280 micrograms/L after 43 d and 160 micrograms/L after 71 d. In females, plasma VTG concentrations were elevated above controls only after 164-d exposure to 640 micrograms/L. Inhibition of gonadal growth (as measured by the gonadosomatic index) occurred in both males and females at concentrations of 640 and 1280 micrograms/L after 164 d. In males, a concentration of 16 micrograms/L altered the proportion of sex cell types in the testis, suggesting inhibition of spermatogenesis. Concentrations of BPA that induced VTG synthesis and affected gonadal development were lower than those that resulted in discernible effects on reproductive output. Egg production was inhibited at a BPA concentration of 1280 micrograms/L, and hatchability in the F1 generation was reduced at a BPA concentration of 640 micrograms/L (there were not enough eggs spawned in the 1280 micrograms/L group for hatchability studies to be conducted). The results demonstrate that BPA acts as a weak estrogen to fish when administered via the water, with effects on breeding at and above 640 micrograms/L.

Degree Distributions of Growing Networks

Abstract: The in-degree and out-degree distributions of a growing network model are determined. The in-degree is the number of incoming links to a given node (and vice versa for out-degree). The network is built by (i) creation of new nodes which each immediately attach to a preexisting node, and (ii) creation of new links between preexisting nodes. This process naturally generates correlated in-degree and out-degree distributions. When the node and link creation rates are linear functions of node degree, these distributions exhibit distinct power-law forms. By tuning the parameters in these rates to reasonable values, exponents which agree with those of the web graph are obtained.

Social responsibility, profit maximisation and the small firm owner‐manager

Abstract: In this paper, a new analysis is presented of the social and ethical orientation of small firm owner‐managers. Using exploratory qualitative empirical evidence, it is proposed that there are four “frames” of perceiving the social perspective of the small business. These are profit‐maximisation priority, subsistence priority, enlightened self‐interest and social priority. If policy makers wish to influence the ethics of small firms, they need to be aware of this diversity of viewpoints and move beyond the notion of the profit‐maximising, rational economic entrepreneur as the standard image of the small business owner‐manager.

A framework for managing maintenance using performance measurement systems

Abstract: The role of maintenance in modern manufacturing is becoming ever more important, with companies adopting maintenance as a profit-generating business element. As a result, traditional terms used to describe maintenance such as “necessary evil” seem to be obsolete. It would appear that the aim of the maintenance function is to contribute towards an organisation’s profit, clearly bringing the need for maintenance operations to be in harmony with corporate business objectives. As the measurement activity provides the link between the actual output and the desired results, performance measurement systems are crucial to those who have a stake in maintenance, to ensure that they are not in conflict with the overall business needs. This paper looks at the role of performance measurement systems (PMS) in maintenance, with particular reference to developing a new PMS using the quality function deployment (QFD) technique. First, a literature review on performance measurement is presented, in which the key factors for an effective PMS are identified. Second, common PMSs for maintenance are examined. Then, based on the principles of an effective PMS a discussion on PMSs is presented, when applied to the maintenance function. Next, a framework is developed to embrace these key facets, which is followed by a discussion of its practical implications, in the light of its application within a SME.

Visualizing a knowledge domain's intellectual structure

Abstract: To make knowledge visualizations clear and easy to interpret, we have developed a method that extends and transforms traditional author co-citation analysis by extracting structural patterns from the scientific literature and representing them in a 3D knowledge landscape.

Sexual disruption in a second species of wild cyprinid fish (the gudgeon, Gobio gobio) in United Kingdom freshwaters.

Abstract: To establish whether the intersex condition seen in the roach (Rutilus rutilus) in United Kingdom (UK) rivers was species specific or a more general phenomenon in fish, evidence for sexual disruption was sought in a second cyprinid species, the gudgeon (Gobio gobio). Gudgeon were collected from the Rivers Aire and Lea (at locations that receive high-volume discharges of sewage treatment works [STW] effluent and that contain intersex roach) and from two still waters, and their gonads were examined histologically for evidence of intersexuality (the simultaneous presence of oocytes and testicular tissue). Intersex gonads were found at all sites, with the highest incidences occurring at one of the still waters (Lakeside Fisheries: 15%) and at sites on the River Aire (Thwaite Weir, Silsden Bridge, and Knostrop: 14, 13, and 12%, respectively). In the River Lea and Longton Park Lake, the incidence of intersexuality in gudgeon was 6%. In most cases, intersex gonads were characterized by a few primary oocytes/gonad section in an otherwise normal testis. However, at some sites on the River Aire (Thwaite Weir and Knostrop), the intersex condition was more severe. At Thwaite Weir, for example, more than half of the gonad in 40% of the intersex fish was comprised of ovarian tissue. Elevated concentrations of plasma vitellogenin both in male and in intersex fish indicated that fish had been exposed to estrogen(s). Some of the gudgeon were found at sites several kilometers downstream of any point discharge of STW effluent; therefore, the results likely are representative of this species in wild populations found in typical UK river ecosystems. Together with the findings in the roach, these data on the gudgeon confirm that sexual disruption in fish in UK rivers is not species specific.

ERP and application integration: Exploratory survey

Abstract: During the 1990s, companies focused on the adoption of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to solve integration problems. However, ERP systems automate core business activities without solving underlying business structures and processes. As a result a number of disparate applications often coexist with ERP systems. To better understand ERP and application integration (AI) problems, this paper proposes to identify, analyse and present the problems of ERP systems, as well as examining new approaches for AI. In doing so, a multi‐choice questionnaire has been designed, and was distributed to ERP specialists over the Internet. Responses show that ERP systems amplified the need for integration, as existing systems have to be incorporated with ERP applications. AI securely incorporates functionality from disparate applications, and has shown to lead to the development of new strategic business solutions for enterprises. The results of the research confirm AI as a new means of system integration that adds value by placing business logic in the applications network, thus creating a more dynamic information systems infrastructure.

Both emerin and lamin C depend on lamin A for localization at the nuclear envelope.

Abstract: Physical interactions between lamins and emerin were investigated by co-immunoprecipitation of in vitro translated proteins. Emerin interacted with in vitro translated lamins A, B1 and C in co-immunprecipitation reactions. Competition reactions revealed a clear preference for interactions between emerin and lamin C. Structural associations between lamins and emerin were investigated in four human cell lines displaying abnormal expression and/or localisation of lamins A and C. In each cell line absence of lamins A and C from the nuclear envelope (NE) was correlated with mis-localisation of endogenous and exogenous emerin to the ER. In two cell lines that did not express lamin A but did express lamin C, lamin C as well as emerin was mis-localised. When GFP-lamin A was expressed in SW13 cells (which normally express only very low levels of endogenous lamin A and mis-localise endogenous emerin and lamin C), all three proteins became associated with the NE. When GFP-lamin C was expressed in SW13 cells neither the endogenous nor the exogenous lamin C was localised to the NE and emerin remained in the ER. Finally, lamins A and C were selectively eliminated from the NE of HeLa cells using a dominant negative mutant of lamin B1. Elimination of these lamins from the lamina led to the accumulation of emerin as aggregates within the ER. Our data suggest that lamin A is essential for anchorage of emerin to the inner nuclear membrane and of lamin C to the lamina.

Business process reengineering: a survey of international experience

Abstract: Despite the widespread adoption of business process re‐engineering (BPR), it has in many cases repeatedly failed to deliver its promised results. The lack of integrated implementation approach to exploiting BPR is seen as one of the important reasons amongst others, behind BPR failures. Yet, a relative void in the literature remains the scarcity of suitable models and frameworks that address the implementation issues surrounding BPR. This motivates the presented study to attempt to provide a “frame of reference” with which current practices can be re‐positioned. A survey was therefore designed to collect data from a sample of organizations in the USA and Europe. The survey assesses the level of importance placed on the essential elements of integrated BPR implementation. In doing so, the study was also able to identify the level of maturity of BPR concepts within organisations. Empirical findings are then discussed in the context of other studies.

Outsourcing information systems: drawing lessons from a banking case study

Abstract: Financial and costs benefits are often put forward as the reasons why organisations decide to outsource. Emerging patterns and trends indicate that today's outsourcing decisions are often motivated by factors other than cost. Thus, the decision-making process is more complex than it may at first appear. This paper presents findings from a case study from an organisation in the UK banking sector that was motivated to outsource aspects of its information technology/information system (IT/IS). The underlying motives and decision-making process that influenced the bank outsource its IT/IS are presented and discussed. Findings from the case study suggest political perspectives, as well as human and organisational issues influenced the bank's strategic decision-making to outsource certain aspects of its business. An examination of the case study findings suggests that cost alone is not always responsible for decisions to outsource, as it was found the bank's outsourcing decision was driven by a series of complex, interrelated motives in a bid to reduce the risks and uncertainties of managing its own technology. Considering the complex nature of the outsourcing process a frame of reference that can be used to assist managers with their decision to outsource IT/IS is propagated. The case study is used to present an organisation's experiences as to how and why it decided to outsource its IS and thus offers a learning opportunity for other organisations facing similar difficulties. In addition, the case study findings highlight the need to focus greater attention on discriminating between the short and long-term consequences of IT/IS decision-making.

Kinship, cultural preference and immigration: consanguineous marriage among british pakistanis

Abstract: This article offers an analysis and interpretation of a high rate of marriage to relatives, especially first cousins, in a sample of second-generation British Pakistanis. It argues that the high rate of such marriage is not a simple reflection of a cultural preference. A better explanation requires an analysis of the factors that influence the decisions and choices of the marriage arrangers in the particular context of Pakistani migration to Britain. The article also underlines the inadequacy of a blanket category ‘Pakistani’ in relation to marriage patterns and choices. Variation according to region of origin, caste, socio-economic status, and upbringing must be brought into focus to reveal the processes that have generated the pattern, and to offer clues to its likely persistence.

An overview of program slicing

Abstract: MARK HARMAN and ROBERT HIERONS review three semantic paradigms for slicing — static, dynamic and conditioned; and two syntactic paradigms — syntax-preserving and amorphous. Slicing has been applied to many software development problems including testing, reuse, maintenance and evolution. This paper describes the main forms of program slice and some of the applications to which slicing has been put. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations in a population-based study of male breast cancer

Abstract: Background The contribution of BRCA1 and BRCA2 to the incidence of male breast cancer (MBC) in the United Kingdom is not known, and the importance of these genes in the increased risk of female breast cancer associated with a family history of breast cancer in a male first-degree relative is unclear.

Effects of rapid weight loss on mood and performance among amateur boxers.

Abstract: Aims—To examine the effects of rapid weight loss on mood and performance among amateur boxers. Methods—Participants were 16 experienced amateur boxers. In stage 1, structured interviews were used to assess the type of strategies that boxers used to reduce weight and the value of performing at their desired weight in terms of performance. In stage 2, boxers completed a 4 x 2 minute (1 minute recovery) circuit training session. Boxers completed the circuit training session on three different occasions with a week between each. The first test was used to familiarise the boxers with the circuit training task; the second and third tasks were at their training weight and championship weight, respectively. Participants were given one week to reduce their body weight to their championship weight using their preferred weight making strategies; boxers reduced their body weight by an average of 5.16% of body weight. Results—Boxers typically lost weight by restricting fluid and food intake in the week leading to competition. Repeated measures multivariate analysis of variance results indicated that rapid weight loss among boxers was associated with poor performance, increased anger, fatigue, and tension, and reduced vigour. Conclusions—Strategies used to make weight by boxers are associated with poor performance and a negative mood profile. Key Words: rapid weight loss; boxing; physical performance; mood

The effect of a hinged ankle foot orthosis on hemiplegic gait: objective measures and users' opinions

Abstract: Objective: To assess the effect of a hinged ankle foot orthosis (AFO) on functional mobility and gait impairments in people with a severe hemiplegia undergoing rehabilitation, and to investigate the patients' views of the hinged AFO.Design: With/without group comparison, and face-to-face questionnaire.Subjects and setting: Twenty-five subjects over 18 years, with a hemiplegia following cerebrovascular accident (CVA) undergoing rehabilitation in a regional rehabilitation unit.Outcome measures: Functional Ambulation Categories as a measure of disability. Paper walkways to measure gait impairments – stride length, step length, symmetry, cadence and velocity. Face-to-face questionnaire to determine the users' opinion of the hinged AFO.Results: Comparison of gait with and without the hinged AFO showed significant improvements in functional mobility (p = 0.000) and in some gait impairments; stride length of the weak (p < 0.005, 95% CI –8.1, –1.6) and sound legs (p < 0.014, 95% CI –8, –1), velocity (p = 0.00, 95...

Telomere length abnormalities in mammalian radiosensitive cells.

Abstract: Telomere lengths in radiosensitive murine lymphoma cells L5178Y-S and parental radioresistant L5178Y cells were measured by quantitative fluorescence in situ hybridization. Results revealed a 7-fold reduction in telomere length in radiosensitive cells (7 kb) in comparison with radioresistant cells (48 kb). Therefore, it was reasoned that telomere length might be used as a marker for chromosomal radiosensitivity. In agreement with this hypothesis, a significant inverse correlation between telomere length and chromosomal radiosensitivity was observed in lymphocytes from 24 breast cancer patients and 5 normal individuals. In contrast, no chromosomal radiosensitivity was observed in mouse cell lines that showed shortened telomeres, possibly reflecting differences in radiation responses between primary cells and established cell lines. Telomere length abnormalities observed in radiosensitive cells suggest that these two phenotypes may be linked.

Semi-solid processing of engineering alloys by a twin-screw rheomoulding process

Abstract: Based on the extensive experience in injection moulding of polymeric materials, a twin-screw rheomoulding process has been developed in our laboratory for near net-shape production of engineering components. The rheomoulding equipment consists of a liquid metal feeder, a twin-screw extruder with closely intermeshing, self-wiping and co-rotating screws, a shot assembly and a central control unit. The fluid flow in the twin-screw rheomoulding process is characterised by high shear rate and high intensity of turbulence. The experimental results of rheomoulded Sn–15wt.% Pb and Mg–30wt.% Zn alloys have demonstrated that the twin-screw rheomoulding process is capable of producing small and near mono-sized solid particles distributed uniformly in a fine-grained eutectic matrix. Compared with other existing semi-solid metal processing techniques, the twin-screw rheomoulding process has the following advantages: small and spherical solid particles of near mono-size, chemical and microstructural uniformity throughout the component, accurate control over a large range of solid volume fractions, lower overall component cost due to low cost of feedstock materials, and shorter cycle time.

The Software Industry and India's Economic Development

Abstract: This paper assesses the contribution of software to India's economic development paying particular attention to the role of the software in the absorption of labour and the development of human capital in the Indian economy. India's specialisation in software has been driven by two sorts of wage advantages that have reinforced each other: the lower wages for Indian software developers relative to that of their US and European counterparts makes Indian software cheaper in global markets, while the higher wages earned by software professionals in India relative to that in other industrial sectors has ensured a steady stream of supply of software professionals. However, the impact of this growth has been limited to a small section of the Indian economy, and there are questions whether the current growth can be sustained without a significant growth of domestic demand. We believe that export led growth is sustainable in the medium term. On the other hand, the success of the software industry has contributed to an increase in the relative value of professional workers' programmers, but also managers and analysts. In turn, the growing importance of human capital has lead to innovative models of entrepreneurship and organisation, pioneered by the software sector, which are slowly taking root and spreading to other parts of Indian industry. A potentially important and under appreciated contribution of the software industry is thus as an exemplar of good entrepreneurship and corporate governance to the rest of Indian industry. Though less visible than the macro contributions to employment and foreign exchange, this role is a source of productivity improvement for all industry, which can have powerful long- term benefits for India's industrialisation and growth.