bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chondrocyte Repopulation of Allograft Cartilage: A Preliminary Investigation and Strategy for Developing Cartilage Matrices for Reconstruction
Authors: Kelley Timothy F. , Sutton Frank M. , Wallace Vincent P. , Wong Brian J. F.
Published: February 2003

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the ability of devitalized cartilage to sustain repopulation by allogenic chondrocytes and to use 2‐photon microscopy to assess cultured chondrocyte viability.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

At an academic medical center, we conducted experimental analysis of lagomorph nasal septa devitalized by subjecting them to either 1) chemical dehydration in ethanol, 2) lyophilization (freeze dry), or 3) repeated freeze‐thaw (12 cycles) in liquid nitrogen. The processed cartilages were seeded with chondrocytes isolated from the septa of either the same rabbit or another rabbit and cultured for 4 weeks. They were assessed with a variety of techniques.

RESULTS

The seeded chondrocytes maintained viability on the devitalized cartilage throughout the study period. Two‐photon microscopy was effective in assessing the viability of cultured chondrocytes.

CONCLUSION

Isolated lagomorph chondrocytes can be maintained in allogenic cartilage grafts devitalized using conventional physicochemical techniques.

SIGNIFICANCE

This is the first experimental study to demonstrate that cultured chondrocytes can be maintained on devitalized cartilage.
Preliminary Findings from a Prospective, Randomized Trial of Two Palatal Operations for Sleep‐Disordered Breathing
Authors: Terris David J. , Coker Joan F. , Thomas Adrian J. , Chavoya Martha
Published: February 2003

OBJECTIVES

We compared the efficacy of 2 palatal surgical procedures in the treatment of patients with mild sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB).

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

We conducted a prospective, randomized, crossover surgical trial at a university hospital.

METHODS

Twenty patients with mild SDB for whom conservative treatment failed were identified and consecutively enrolled into an institutional review board‐approved surgical protocol. They were randomly assigned to undergo either radiofrequency ablation of the palate (RFAP) for a planned 3‐stage treatment or laser‐assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP), also for 3 stages of treatment, using a CO2 laser. Parameters assessed included severity of SDB (polysomnography), subjective and objective loudness of snoring (visual analog scale and SNAP recording), sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale), and anatomic changes (upper airway endoscopy), as well as demographic factors. Patients not achieving satisfactory improvement in their condition were crossed over to the alternative surgical therapy for attempted salvage.

RESULTS

Seventeen of the enrolled patients have completed the protocol. Ten of these were randomized to the RFAP group, and 7 to the LAUP group. Six of the RFAP patients (60%) achieved a satisfactory resolution of their snoring, and 4 failed and were salvaged with LAUP. Six of the LAUP patients (86%) achieved a satisfactory resolution of their snoring, and 1 patient failed and was salvaged with nasal surgery. One patient who was initially cured had a relapse after 9 months and was successfully salvaged with RFA.

CONCLUSION

Prospective, randomized trials of surgery for SDB are possible. Preliminary findings from the current protocol reveal a slight advantage of LAUP over RFAP but with a greater degree of discomfort postoperatively.
Endoscopic Treatment of Zenker's Diverticulum Using CO2 Laser
Authors: Krespi Y. , Kacker A. , Remacle M.
Published: February 2003

OBJECTIVES

The objective of the present study was to review the technique of endoscopic laser‐assisted esophagodiverticulostomy (ELAED) for the treatment of Zenker's diverticulum.

METHODS

We reviewed 83 cases of ELAED performed for the treatment of Zenker's diverticuli during the past decade.

RESULTS

ELAED‐treated patients had a reduced hospital stay and were able to start an oral diet earlier than were patients who underwent other surgical procedures. Two (2.4%) of our patients developed small fistulas, which closed spontaneously. An additional 2 (2.4%) of our patients required conversion to an open approach due to inadequate endoscopic exposure, and 5 (6%) required a revision endoscopic procedure for persistent symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Our series of 83 patients treated at 2 large academic centers during the past decade with an average follow‐up of 4 years demonstrates that ELAED is a safe and effective procedure for the management of Zenker's diverticulum.
Pericranial Flap for Closure of Paramedian Anterior Skull Base Defects
Authors: Noone Michael C. , Osguthorpe J. David , Patel Sunil
Published: February 2003

OBJECTIVE

We sought to examine the position of a pericranial flap reconstruction of anterior skull base defects with respect to the original floor of the anterior cranial fossa.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective chart and radiology review of 17 patients (1993–2001) with pericranial flap reconstruction for anterior skull base defects and 17 controls was performed.

RESULTS

At 6 or more months after surgery, the new positions of the pericranial flaps ranged from 5 mm above to 11.3 mm below the positions of the original cribriform plates. There were no complications related to the pericranial flaps such as hemorrhage, flap loss, or brain herniation except for 2 (11.8%) cerebrospinal fluid leaks, 1 of which required operative correction.

CONCLUSION

Pericranial flap reconstruction is a reliable method with low morbidity for closure of the most common skull base defect from the craniofacial resection that entails removal—unilateral or bilateral—of the fovea ethmoidalis, cribriform plate, and/or superior septum. This flap creates a watertight seal between the extradural space and the nasal cavity, prevents clinically significant brain herniation, and is associated with a low rate of cerebrospinal fluid leakage even without postoperative lumbar subarachnoid drainage of the cerebrospinal fluid.
Use of Nebulized Antibiotics for Acute Infections in Chronic Sinusitis
Authors: Vaughan Winston C. , Carvalho Gerard
Published: February 2003

OBJECTIVE

Infections in patients with chronic sinusitis after surgery can be difficult to treat. Nebulized antimicrobial therapy was studied as a treatment option.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients with chronic sinusitis, previous sinus surgery, and an acute infection were offered nebulized antibiotics or standard therapy. Cultures were taken and sensitivity testing was performed. Retrospective chart reviews were also performed.

RESULTS

Forty‐two patients were included. The most common side effects were sore throat and cough. Symptomatic and endoscopic data before and after nebulized therapy showed a longer infection‐free period (average, 17 weeks) compared with standard therapy (average, 6 weeks). Improvements in posterior nasal discharge, facial pain/pressure, and emotional consequences were noted.

CONCLUSION

Nebulized therapy was safe and effective in this cohort. Endoscopy and outcome measure changes showed consistent improvements.

SIGNIFICANCE

A novel therapy for acute sinus infections in patients with chronic sinusitis and previous endoscopic sinus surgery is presented.
Management of Unilateral Acoustic Neuroma in a 72‐Year‐Old Patient with Contralateral Congenital Deafness
Authors: Branch Matthew P. , Hirsch Barry E.
Published: February 2003

Patients with asymmetric or progressive hearing impairment warrant evaluation for the cause of their loss. We present a 72–year–old woman with near life–long hearing loss in one ear and a history of contralateral slowly progressive hearing loss. The audiometric and radiologic findings are demonstrated along with discussion of the management of acoustic neuroma in an only hearing ear.
Health Care Utilization and Cost among Adults with Chronic Rhinosinusitis Enrolled in a Health Maintenance Organization
Authors: Murphy Michael P. , Fishman Paul , Short Steven O. , Sullivan Sean D. , Yueh Bevan , Weymuller Ernest A.
Published: February 2003

OBJECTIVE

Our goal was to measure the impact of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) on the use and cost of health care by adults in a health maintenance organization (HMO).

SETTING AND SUBJECTS

In the setting of the Group Health Cooperative, an HMO in Washington State, we conducted a study of all 218,587 adults (≥18 years) who used services during 1994. Using automated data, 20,175 adults were identified with one or more CRS diagnoses during 1994.

OUTCOME MEASURES

We identified nonurgent outpatient visits, pharmacy fills, urgent visits, hospital days, and their associated costs (per adult per year).

RESULTS

The marginal utilization associated with a diagnosis of CRS was 2.0 nonurgent outpatient visits, 5.1 pharmacy fills, 0.01 urgent visit, and −0.07 hospital day. The marginal total cost of CRS was $206.

CONCLUSIONS

Adults with CRS had higher costs primarily because of increased nonurgent outpatient visit and pharmacy fill utilization. The overall direct cost of CRS in the United States in 1994 is estimated to have been $4.3 billion.
Smoke Exposure and Outcome of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery in Children
Authors: Ramadan Hassan H. , Hinerman Raymond A.
Published: February 2003

OBJECTIVE

The study goal was to determine whether cigarette smoke exposure in children who are undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) for chronic sinusitis will have an impact on the outcome.

DESIGN

We conducted a cohort study in a tertiary care children's hospital setting.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study population consisted of 118 patients who underwent ESS between January 1994 and June 1999. The mean age was 6.5 (range, 2 to 13 years). The outcome of ESS was measured ≥1 year after the operation. A questionnaire was mailed to the caretakers to measure success. Those who required revision subsequently were considered as failures.

RESULTS

Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed with smoke exposure as an independent variable and outcome measured as success of procedure. The overall success rate was 83%. Univariate analysis of smoke exposure and outcome of surgery revealed that children exposed to smoke in household had a 70% success rate compared with children not exposed to smoke, who had a 90% success rate (P = 0.007). Multivariate analysis revealed smoke exposure continued to be an independent predictor of success.

CONCLUSION

ESS in children with cigarette smoke exposure predisposes to a poorer outcome. This needs to be taken into consideration when recommending ESS for those children.
Management of Aberrant Internal Carotid Artery Injury: A Real Emergency
Authors: Jain Rajan , Marotta T.R. , Redekop G. , Vancouver D. W. Anderson
Published: February 2003

Carotid artery pseudoaneurysm or fistula formation can occur due to spontaneous dissection, blunt or penetrating trauma, or iatrogenic injury. Most of the iatrogenic injuries in the petrous region occur during middle ear operations in patients with an aberrant internal carotid artery (ICA). Aberrant ICA is a rare anomaly that can be associated with life‐threatening aural hemorrhage if inadvertently injured during middle ear surgery. Other causes of unexpected hemorrhage during or after middle ear surgery include high jugular bulb, aneurysm, and glomus tumor. The management of aberrant ICA injury has always been a challenging task because of the difficult surgical approach. With major advances in the neuroendovascular field, endovascular treatment of these lesions can be quick and effective.

We discuss here a case of endovascular management of an aberrant ICA that was probably injured during previous middle ear operations that led to pseudoaneurysm formation and ruptured subsequent to ear infection and drainage.
On a problem of W. J. LeVeque concerning metric diophantine approximation
Authors: Fuchs Michael
Published: February 2003

We consider the diophantine approximation problem
\[

|
x
−

p
q

|

≤

f
(
log
⁡
q
)

q
2

\left \vert x-\frac {p}{q}\right \vert \leq \frac {f(\log q)}{q^2}

\]
where

f
f

is a fixed function satisfying suitable assumptions. Suppose that

x
x

is randomly chosen in the unit interval. In a series of papers that appeared in earlier issues of this journal, LeVeque raised the question of whether or not the central limit theorem holds for the solution set of the above inequality (compare also with some work of Erdős). Here, we are going to extend and solve LeVeque’s problem.
Hyperbolic 2-spheres with conical singularities, accessory parameters and Kähler metrics on ℳ_{0,𝓃}
Authors: Takhtajan Leon , Zograf Peter
Published: February 2003

We show that the real-valued function

S
α

S_\alpha

on the moduli space

M

0
,
n

{\mathcal {M}}_{0,n}

of pointed rational curves, defined as the critical value of the Liouville action functional on a hyperbolic

2
2

-sphere with

n
≥
3

n\geq 3

conical singularities of arbitrary orders

α
=
{

α
1

,
…
,

α
n

}

\alpha =\{\alpha _1,\dots , \alpha _n\}

, generates accessory parameters of the associated Fuchsian differential equation as their common antiderivative. We introduce a family of Kähler metrics on

M

0
,
n

{\mathcal {M}}_{0,n}

parameterized by the set of orders

α
\alpha

, explicitly relate accessory parameters to these metrics, and prove that the functions

S
α

S_\alpha

are their Kähler potentials.
Extender-based Radin forcing
Authors: Merimovich Carmi
Published: February 2003

We define extender sequences, generalizing measure sequences of Radin forcing.

Using the extender sequences, we show how to combine the Gitik-Magidor forcing for adding many Prikry sequences with Radin forcing.

We show that this forcing satisfies a Prikry-like condition, destroys no cardinals, and has a kind of properness.

Depending on the large cardinals we start with, this forcing can blow the power of a cardinal together with changing its cofinality to a prescribed value. It can even blow the power of a cardinal while keeping it regular or measurable.
Heat kernels on metric measure spaces and an application to semilinear elliptic equations
Authors: Grigor’yan Alexander , Hu Jiaxin , Lau Ka-Sing
Published: February 2003

We consider a metric measure space

(
M
,
d
,
μ
)

(M,d,\mu )

and a heat kernel

p

t

(
x
,
y
)

p_{t}(x,y)

on

M
M

satisfying certain upper and lower estimates, which depend on two parameters

α
\alpha

and

β
\beta

. We show that under additional mild assumptions, these parameters are determined by the intrinsic properties of the space

(
M
,
d
,
μ
)

(M,d,\mu )

. Namely,

α
\alpha

is the Hausdorff dimension of this space, whereas

β
\beta

, called the walk dimension, is determined via the properties of the family of Besov spaces

W

σ
,
2

W^{\sigma ,2}

on

M
M

. Moreover, the parameters

α
\alpha

and

β
\beta

are related by the inequalities

2
≤
β
≤
α
+
1

2\leq \beta \leq \alpha +1

.

We prove also the embedding theorems for the space

W

β

/

2
,
2

W^{\beta /2,2}

, and use them to obtain the existence results for weak solutions to semilinear elliptic equations on

M
M

of the form

−

L

u
+
f
(
x
,
u
)
=
g
(
x
)
,

\begin{equation*} -\mathcal {L}u+f(x,u)=g(x), \end{equation*}

where

L

\mathcal {L}

is the generator of the semigroup associated with

p

t

p_{t}

.

The framework in this paper is applicable for a large class of fractal domains, including the generalized Sierpiński carpet in

R

n

{\mathbb {R}^{n}}

.
Holomorphic extensions from open families of circles
Authors: Globevnik Josip
Published: February 2003

For a circle

Γ
=
{
z
∈

C

:

|

z
−
c

|

=
ρ
}

\Gamma =\{ z\in \mathbb {C} \colon |z-c|=\rho \}

write
<mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" alttext="normal upper Lamda left-parenthesis normal upper Gamma right-parenthesis equals left-brace left-parenthesis z comma w right-parenthesis colon left-parenthesis z minus a right-parenthesis left-parenthesis w minus a overbar right-parenthesis equals rho squared comma 0 greater-than StartAbsoluteValue z minus a EndAbsoluteValue greater-than rho right-brace">

Λ
(
Γ
)
=
{
(
z
,
w
)
:
 
(
z
−
a
)
(
w
−

a
¯

)
=

ρ

2

,
 
0
>

|

z
−
a

|

>
ρ
}

\Lambda (\Gamma )=\{ (z,w)\colon \ (z-a)(w-\overline {a}) =\rho ^{2},\ 0>|z-a|>\rho \}

. A continuous function

f
f

on

Γ
\Gamma

extends holomorphically from

Γ
\Gamma

(into the disc bounded by

Γ
\Gamma

) if and only if the function

F
(
z
,

z
¯

)
=
f
(
z
)

F(z,\overline {z})=f(z)

defined on

{
(
z
,

z
¯

)
:
 
z
∈
Γ
}

\{(z,\overline {z})\colon \ z\in \Gamma \}

has a bounded holomorphic extension into

Λ
(
Γ
)

\Lambda (\Gamma )

. In the paper we consider open connected families of circles

C

\mathcal {C}

, write

U
=
⋃
{
Γ
:
 
Γ
∈

C

}

U=\bigcup \{ \Gamma \colon \ \Gamma \in \mathcal {C}\}

, and assume that a continuous function on

U
U

extends holomorphically from each

Γ
∈

C

\Gamma \in \mathcal {C}

. We show that this happens if and only if the function

F
(
z
,

z
¯

)
=
f
(
z
)

F(z, \overline {z})=f(z)

defined on

{
(
z
,

z
¯

)
:
z
∈
U
}

\{ (z,\overline {z})\colon z\in U\}

has a bounded holomorphic extension into the domain

⋃
{
Λ
(
Γ
)
:
 
Γ
∈

Q

}

\bigcup \{ \Lambda (\Gamma )\colon \ \Gamma \in \mathcal {Q}\}

for each open family

Q

\mathcal {Q}

compactly contained in

C

\mathcal {C}

. This allows us to use known facts from several complex variables. In particular, we use the edge of the wedge theorem to prove a theorem on real analyticity of such functions.
Local power series quotients of commutative Banach and Fréchet algebras
Authors: Thomas Marc
Published: February 2003

We consider the relationship between derivations and local power series quotients for a locally multiplicatively convex Fréchet algebra. In §2 we derive necessary conditions for a commutative Fréchet algebra to have a local power series quotient. Our main result here is Proposition 2.6, which shows that if the generating element has finite closed descent, the algebra cannot be simply a radical algebra with identity adjoined—it must have nontrivial representation theory; if the generating element does not have finite closed descent, then the algebra cannot be a Banach algebra, and the generating element must be locally nilpotent (but non-nilpotent) in an associated quotient algebra. In §3 we consider a fundamental situation which leads to local power series quotients. Let

D
D

be a derivation on a commutative radical Fréchet algebra

R

♯

{\mathcal {R}}^{\sharp }

with identity adjoined. We show in Theorem 3.10 that if the discontinuity of

D
D

is not concentrated in the (Jacobson) radical, then

R

♯

{\mathcal {R}}^{\sharp }

has a local power series quotient. The question of whether such a derivation can have a separating ideal so large it actually contains the identity element has been recently settled in the affirmative by C. J. Read.
A Serrate-expressing signaling center controlsDrosophilahematopoiesis
Authors: Lebestky Tim , Jung Seung-Hye , Banerjee Utpal
Published: February 2003

The differentiation ofDrosophilablood cells relies on a functional hierarchy between the GATA protein, Serpent (Srp), and multiple lineage-specific transcription factors, such as the AML1-like protein, Lozenge (Lz). Two major branches ofDrosophilahematopoiesis give rise to plasmatocytes/macrophages and crystal cells. Serrate signaling through the Notch pathway is critical in the regulation of Lz expression and the specification of crystal cell precursors, thus providing a key distinction between the two lineages. The expression of Serrate marks a discrete cluster of cells in the lymph gland, a signaling center, with functional similarities to stromal signaling in mammalian hematopoiesis.
AFP is a novel negative regulator of ABA signaling that promotes ABI5 protein degradation
Authors: Lopez-Molina Luis , Mongrand Sébastien , Kinoshita Natsuko , Chua Nam-Hai
Published: February 2003

Plants have evolved protective mechanisms to ensure their survival when threatened by adverse environmental conditions during their transition to autotrophic growth. During germination, there is a 2- to 3-d period during which a plant can execute growth arrest when challenged by water deficit. This postgermination developmental checkpoint is signaled by the stress hormone abscisic acid (ABA), which induces the expression of the bZIP transcription activator ABI5. The growth arrest efficiency depends on ABI5 levels, andabi5mutants are ABA-insensitive and unable to execute the ABA-mediated growth arrest. Here we show that a novel ABI5-interacting protein, designated as AFP, can form high molecular weight (Mr) complexes with ABI5 in embryo-derived extracts. LikeABI5,ABI five binding protein(AFP) mRNA and protein levels are induced by ABA during seed germination. Two differentafpmutant alleles (afp-1andafp-2) are hypersensitive to ABA, whereas transgenic plants overexpressing AFP are resistant; in these plants, AFP and ABI5 protein levels are inversely correlated. Genetic analysis shows thatabi5-4is epistatic toafp-1, indicating the ABA hypersensitivity ofafpmutants requires ABI5. Proteasome inhibitor studies show that ABI5 stability is regulated by ABA through ubiquitin-related events. When expressed together, AFP and ABI5 are colocalized in nuclear bodies, which also contain COP1, a RING motif protein. Our results suggest that AFP attenuates ABA signals by targeting ABI5 for ubiquitin-mediated degradation in nuclear bodies.
Six3 repression of Wnt signaling in the anterior neuroectoderm is essential for vertebrate forebrain development
Authors: Lagutin Oleg V. , Zhu Changqi C. , Kobayashi Daisuke , Topczewski Jacek , Shimamura Kenji , Puelles Luis , Russell Helen R.C. , McKinnon Peter J. , Solnica-Krezel Lilianna , Oliver Guillermo
Published: February 2003

In vertebrate embryos, formation of anterior neural structures requires suppression of Wnt signals emanating from the paraxial mesoderm and midbrain territory. InSix3−/−mice, the prosencephalon was severely truncated, and the expression ofWnt1was rostrally expanded, a finding that indicates that the mutant head was posteriorized. Ectopic expression of Six3 in chick and fish embryos, together with the use of in vivo and in vitro DNA-binding assays, allowed us to determine that Six3 is a direct negative regulator of Wnt1 expression. These results, together with those of phenotypic rescue ofheadless/tcf3zebrafish mutants by mouse Six3, demonstrate that regionalization of the vertebrate forebrain involves repression ofWnt1expression by Six3 within the anterior neuroectoderm. Furthermore, these results support the hypothesis that a Wnt signal gradient specifies posterior fates in the anterior neural plate.
Trajectory optimization design of a lunar polar probe
Authors: Zhenmin Zhang , Zhaowei Sun , Di Yang
Published: February 2003

This article presents the optimized design, analysis and calculation concerning the trajectory of a lunar polar probe. Firstly, the trajectory design principles and constraints are determined. The preliminary design and analysis of the circumlunar orbit, transfer orbit to the moon and earth parking orbit are carried out separately and some computations for the flight trajectory concept have been made too. To reduce the fuel needed for error in orbital maneuver efficiently and satisfy the requirements on the launch window, some detailed design and analysis for the rather advanced phasing earth‐moon transfer orbit are given here and also the strategy for optimum orbit correction.
Thesauri, taxonomies and ontologies – an etymological note
Authors: Gilchrist Alan
Published: February 2003

The amount of work to be done in rendering the digital information space more efficient and effective has attracted a wide range of disciplines which, in turn, has given rise to a degree of confusion in the terminology applied to information problems. This note seeks to shed some light on the three terms thesauri, taxonomies and ontologies as they are currently being used by, among others, information scientists, AI practitioners, and those working on the foundations of the semantic Web. The paper is not a review of the techniques themselves.
A model of information practices in accounts of everyday‐life information seeking
Authors: McKenzie Pamela J.
Published: February 2003

Many research‐based models of information seeking behaviour are limited in their ability to describe everyday life information seeking. Such models tend to focus on active information seeking, to the neglect of less‐directed practices. Models are often based on studies of scholars or professionals, and many have been developed using a cognitive approach to model building. This article reports on the development of a research‐based model of everyday life information seeking and proposes that a focus on the social concept of information practices is more appropriate to everyday life information seeking than the psychological concept of information behaviour The model is derived from a constructionist discourse analysis of individuals’ accounts of everyday life information seeking.
Laws against the circumvention of copyright technological protection
Authors: Carlos Fernández‐Molina J.
Published: February 2003

The problems that the great developments in digital information and the Internet are creating for copyright may be partly solved through new legislation as well as through the implementation of technological systems (generically known as ECMS) that help protect it. These two approaches – legal and technological – interact, as the new copyright laws protect these electronic measures through the prohibition of their circumvention. The contents of the three main legal norms that have regulated this area to date, the US Digital Millennium Copyright Act, the European Directive and the new Australian Copyright Act, are analysed in an attempt to determine what impact they might have on the traditional limitations and exceptions to copyright (fair use/dealing, private copying, library privileges) that benefit libraries, their users and the general public.
Modelling the logical structure of books and journals using augmented transition network grammars
Authors: Stehno Birgit , Retti Gregor
Published: February 2003

This paper presents a grammar for books and journals using augmented transition networks in automated document analysis. The approach takes the structure of layout elements in books and journals to be part of a semiotic system, which therefore can be described using methods developed for the description of other semiotic systems, e.g. languages. It differs from previous research in the domain of document analysis and understanding as it deals in an exhaustive way with rather generic classes of multi‐page printed objects, i.e. books (monographs) and journals. To achieve this aim, abstract relations instead of document specific formatting rules are taken into account.
Productivity and foreign direct investment – evidence from Mexico
Authors: Khawar Mariam
Published: February 2003

Concentrates on identifying the mechanisms by which foreign investment affects productivity in recipient countries. Conducts a firm‐level study of manufacturing plants in Mexico and test for performance differences embodied in factor productivity between domestic and foreign (majority and minority) owned plants. In addition checks for the existence of spillovers at the industry level due to the presence of multinational corporations. In contrast to earlier studies finds no evidence of spillovers but does find a strong direct effect in the form of higher levels of productivity in firms with foreign ownership.
Reliability analysis of a maintenance network with repair and preventive maintenance
Authors: Shankar Gauri , Sahani Vandana
Published: February 2003

This paper considers the maintenance of an operational system consisting of a number of independent and identical units. These units are required to be in service at all times and are supported by a maintenance float. Reliability analysis is used to study the effect of preventive maintenance and repair on the float factor determination. Numerical examples have also been included to illustrate the mathematical findings.
Factors affecting the relationship between total quality management and organizational performance
Authors: Lloréns Montes Fco. Javier , Verdú Jover Antonio , Miguel Molina Fernández Luis
Published: February 2003

This paper aims to provide a framework for studying the relationship between total quality management (TQM) and organizational performance. TQM contents as well as TQM elements are considered. So, from a contingency approach, TQM contents have to be consistent with business orientation and environmental uncertainty in order to be effective. On the other hand, the relationship between TQM elements and performance is developed from an industrial psychology perspective. Hence, TQM elements are considered to impact both behavioural and individuals’ learning processes. In the proposed model this relations are mediated by the TQM‐driven cultural change acceptance. Moreover, TQM elements impact these individual processes both directly and mediated by systems and personal factors. Hence, both TQM contents and elements have to be considered to do the right things and to do it well.
A case study on maintenance of bus engines using the sequential method
Authors: Leung Francis K.N. , Lai K.K.
Published: February 2003

This paper reports on the application of the sequential method, presented in a previous paper by Laiet al.in 2001, to determine optimal strategies of when to carry out a preventive maintenance action for an engine and when to replace an engine in use. The sequential method was run with real data provided by the Kowloon Motor Bus Company Limited in Hong Kong. First, both the maximum‐likelihood density estimation procedure and the nearest‐neighbour density estimation procedure were applied to assess the model parameters, and the goodnesses of fit of the distribution was assessed. Second, some values were assigned to the corrective maintenance indicator and the preventive maintenance indicator. Third, the other input values for the method were assessed. Finally, the optimal preventive maintenance and replacement strategies based on minimising loss were determined. This case study shows that the sequential method can be used to solve a maintenance and replacement problem efficiently, and also shows that the method has advantages over the non‐homogeneous Poisson process model in comparison with the results obtained by the latter.
Competitive strategies and core competencies: perspectives for the internationalisation of industry in Brazil
Authors: Fleury Afonso , Tereza Fleury Maria
Published: February 2003

One of the key features of the new economy seems to be the change from individual to collective efficiency: the joint performance of systems of networked enterprises. That movement has an international dimension mainly related to the new strategies of transnational corporations. from the perspective of developing countries important changes might be taking place, as a consequence of the positioning of their firms in that new interorganisational networking. This is the focus of this study. An analytical model was developed for the assessment of which industrial segment shows the potential to be an international player for having the required organisational competencies. The conceptual framework was built around the idea that participation in an interorganisational network depends on the competencies built by each firm and influences the conditions for strategy formulation. A survey about the recent evolution of industry in Brazil was prepared. The outcomes reveal the relative position of the Brazilian firms in international networks, what leads to an overall picture of the competitiveness of local industry.
Organisational learning: a critical review
Authors: Wang Catherine L. , Ahmed Pervaiz K.
Published: February 2003

This paper reviews the conceptual framework of organisational learning, and identifies five focuses of the concept and practices within the existing literature, namely, focus on collectivity of individual learning; process or system; culture or metaphor; knowledge management; and continuous improvement. In line with current industrial contexts, this paper tentatively redefines the concept of organisational learning, incorporating the aspect of radical innovation and creativity. The aim of this paper is to provide a clarified and updated understanding of organisational learning.
Empirical linkages between firm competencies and organisational learning
Authors: Murray Peter , Donegan Kevin
Published: February 2003

Organisational learning theory appears to be practical when researchers can find links between two or more variables that can be justified and implemented. While much has been written about organisational learning, with many reported successes, further research is needed to link the internal techniques of procedure with the externalisation of these in practice. Such principles seem more valuable when superior organisational competencies are linked to a learning culture, when the improvement of behavioural routines can be traced to the existence of superior learning. This paper explores these links. The paper is based on an empirical investigation – the contemplative link between learning levels and the creation of organisational competence is a new approach. The paper seeks to make a contribution to developmental theory as well as organisational learning in practice. It suggests that a firm’s competitive advantage can be increased as a result of competencies that are established from a learning culture.
A model of small business HR growth management
Authors: Mazzarol Tim
Published: February 2003

Substantial work has been undertaken in the field of human resource management (HRM) as it applies to large organizations. However, for small business these models frequently do not apply. The small business lacks adequate systems to ensure the efficient management of human resources. Further, most small businesses are the product of their owners, whose personality and personal involvement dominate. Drawing upon evidence from four case studies of small business owners who have experienced growth the aim of the paper is to examine the point at which these owners became aware of the need for team building and delegation within their companies and how they responded. All have found finding, motivating and retaining good staff a critical bottleneck in their business growth. Of importance, appears to be their beliefs, attitudes and values. A shift in these areas was necessary before change could be undertaken. The point of awareness for many came from the managerial training programs but was tempered by their beliefs and the growth cycles of their companies. Prior to change being possible these owner‐managers needed to develop skills and competencies in leadership, coaching and management before effective delegation and team building could take place. These findings are linked to the existing body of knowledge relating to HRM. A theoretical model of the small business HR process for small business growth is presented. Future, implications for small business management and research are discussed.
An analysis of changing management roles in small Australian services exporters in response to the stages in industry development
Authors: Hine Damian , Howard Dennis
Published: February 2003

Life cycle models have become important in explaining the changing size structure of firms based on the carrying capacity of regions or industries. In particular, the population ecology model predicts stages of growth, maturity and eventually decline in the number of firms in an industry. There has been criticism of such models because of their focus on external variables as pre‐determinants of the potential for enterprise development. This paper attempts to reconcile the external focus of the population ecology model with relevant internal management factors in enterprise development. A survey was conducted of Australian services exporters, and the results not only confirm the existence of four separate life cycle stages in the population ecology model, but also identify the external and internal variables that are strategically relevant at each of the stages. The findings provide potentially useful information in a range of contexts including the design of small business assistance as well a providing “guide posts” to entrepreneurs engaged in enterprise development.
Strategic alliances: a valuable way to manage intellectual capital?
Authors: Das Somnath , Sen Pradyot K. , Sengupta Sanjit
Published: February 2003

Considers two forms of strategic alliances, technological and marketing, and examines how these alliances foster formation and maintenance of intellectual capital. Empirical evidence suggests that on average, strategic alliances do create value for shareholders that is consistent with the creation of intellectual capital. Between the two, technological alliances are potentially more beneficial than marketing alliances, and more likely to create intellectual capital. Empirical evidence is consistent with the notion that the gains from alliances are not shared equally by all the partners. When intellectual capital is created by the smaller or financially weaker partner, the return may be appropriately captured by the owner of such capital through strategic alliances. However, if the intellectual capital is created by the larger or financially stronger firm which moves first in an alliance relationship, the return on this intellectual capital may be subject to opportunistic exploitation by the late moving partner.
Technological knowledge and firm performance of pharmaceutical firms
Authors: SubbaNarasimha P.N. , Ahmad Sohel , Mallya Sudhirkumar N.
Published: February 2003

How efficient are firms at utilizing their technological knowledge stocks? In this paper we focus on a firm's breadth and depth of technological knowledge and investigate their differential effects on two performance measures: return on capital and sales growth. Using a sample of 29 pharmaceutical firms we conduct data envelopment analysis (DEA) to determine those firms that are the most efficient converters of breadth and depth of technological knowledge into performance, and the knowledge dimension that the inefficient firms ought to focus upon to improve their performance.
Should there be corporate concern?
Authors: Fine Cory R. , Ottavio Castagnera James
Published: February 2003

Academia is an industry like many of those in the private sector. It produces valuable patents, copyrights and other intellectual property. Consequently, the “research for sale” industry by way of corporate/university partnerships continues to grow. While it is certain that academics participating directly in corporate research partnerships are required to abide by project confidentiality agreements, their colleagues and other academic researchers peripherally involved may only be required to adhere to their own university's policies, which may or may not be sufficient. From a corporate executive and strategic policy standpoint, important questions arise. Are corporate interests protected by the presence of valid university intellectual property policies, or should there be concern? In an effort to answer this question, our article examines university policies for the purpose of determining which academic institutions are more likely to maintain protective policies, private or public, and which policies are most prevalent amongst universities: patent, copyright, general loyalty clauses, invention, trademark or trade‐secret policies.
Seasonal Changes in Fungal Production and Biomass on Standing Dead
Scirpus
lacustris
Litter in a Northern Prairie Wetland
Authors: Verma Brij , Robarts Richard D. , Headley John V.
Published: February 2003

Decaying macrophytes are an important source of carbon and nutrients in fungal and bacterial communities of northern prairie wetlands. Dead macrophytes do not collapse into the water column immediately after death, and decomposition by fungi and bacteria begins while the plants are standing. The seasonal variations in fungal biomass and production on
Scirpus lacustris
stems, both above and below water, were measured to assess which environmental factors were dominant in affecting these variations in a typical prairie wetland. Fungal biomass and production were measured from early May to November, just prior to freeze-up. Fungal decomposition began and was greatest in the spring despite low water temperatures. The fungal production, as measured by the incorporation of [1-
14
C]acetate into ergosterol, ranged from 1.8 to 376 μg of C g of ash-free dry mass (AFDM)
−1
day
−1
, and the biomass, as estimated by using ergosterol, ranged from nondetectable to 5.8 mg of C g of AFDM
−1
. There was no significant difference in biomass or production between aerial and submerged portions of
Scirpus
stems. The water temperature was correlated with fungal production (
r
= 0.7,
P
< 0.005) for aerial stem pieces but not for submerged pieces. However, in laboratory experiments water temperature had a measurable effect on both biomass and production in submerged stem pieces. Changes in fungal biomass and productivity on freshly cut green
Scirpus
stems decaying in the water either exposed to natural solar radiation or protected from UV radiation were monitored over the summer. There was no significant difference in either fungal biomass (
P
= 0.76) or production (
P
= 0.96) between the two light treatments. The fungal biomass and rates of production were within the lower range of the values reported elsewhere, probably as a result of the colder climate and perhaps the lower lability of
Scirpus
stems compared to the labilities of the leaves and different macrophytes examined in other studies performed at lower latitudes.
Detection of
Listeria monocytogenes
from a Model Food by Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer-Based PCR with an Asymmetric Fluorogenic Probe Set
Authors: Koo Kai , Jaykus Lee-Ann
Published: February 2003

It has been shown that fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based PCR, including the TaqMan assay and molecular beacons, has potential for rapid detection of pathogens. In these promising real-time detection assays a single internal oligonucleotide probe labeled on both the 5′ (reporter) and 3′ (quencher) ends is used for selective generation of fluorescence. In this paper, we describe the use of a previously reported novel probe design for FRET-based PCR detection of
Listeria monocytogenes
in pure culture and in a model food commodity. In the assay described here an asymmetric probe set is used; this probe set consists of a long 5′ fluorescein-labeled reporter probe and a short, complementary 3′ DABCYL-labeled quencher oligonucleotide, which are used in a 5′ nuclease amplification and detection assay. By using the listeriolysin O (
hly
) and p60 (
iap
) genes as amplification targets, the performance of two primer-probe sets in amplification and subsequent detection of target DNA was evaluated. In studies performed with pure cultures of
L. monocytogenes
, the PCR profiles indicated that the relative change in fluorescence intensity was correlated with both the initial number of cells and the accumulation of specific amplicons for both
hly
and
iap
gene fragments. Experiments were also done to determine the applicability of the method to the detection of
L. monocytogenes
by targeting
hly
DNA and its short-lived mRNA product in a model food commodity. Twenty-five-milliliter samples of reconstituted nonfat dry milk (NFDM) were seeded with
L. monocytogenes
and processed to concentrate the bacteria by centrifugation, and this was followed by nucleic acid extraction and amplification with
hly
-specific primers. Endpoint detection of PCR and reverse transcription-PCR amplicons could be achieved at inoculum levels of 10
3
and 10
4
CFU of
L. monocytogenes
/25 ml of NFDM, respectively. This study demonstrated that this asymmetric FRET-based amplification and detection protocol provides an alternative approach for endpoint detection of nucleic acid amplification products as applied to detection of pathogens in a model food.
Differential Inactivation of Seed Exudate Stimulation ofPythium ultimumSporangium Germination byEnterobacter cloacaeInfluences Biological Control Efficacy on Different Plant Species
Authors: Kageyama Koji , Nelson Eric B.
Published: February 2003

This study was initiated to understand whether differential biological control efficacy ofEnterobacter cloacaeon various plant species is due to differences in the ability ofE.cloacaeto inactivate the stimulatory activity of seed exudates toPythium ultimumsporangium germination. In biological control assays,E.cloacaewas effective in controllingPythiumdamping-off when placed on the seeds of carrot, cotton, cucumber, lettuce, radish, tomato, and wheat but failed to protect corn and pea from damping-off. Seeds from plants such as corn and pea had high rates of exudation, whereas cotton and cucumber seeds had much lower rates of exudation. Patterns of seed exudation and the release ofP.ultimumsporangium germination stimulants varied among the plants tested. Seed exudates of plants such as carrot, corn, lettuce, pea, radish, and wheat were generally more stimulatory toP.ultimumthan were the exudates of cotton, cucumber, sunflower, and tomato. However, this was not directly related to the ability ofE.cloacaeto inactivate the stimulatory activity of the exudate and reduceP.ultimumsporangium germination. In the spermosphere,E.cloacaereadily reduced the stimulatory activity of seed exudates from all plant species except corn and pea. Our data have shown that the inability ofE.cloacaeto protect corn and pea seeds fromPythiumdamping-off is directly related to its ability to inactivate the stimulatory activity of seed exudates. On all other plants tested,E.cloacaewas effective in suppressing damping-off and inactivating the stimulatory activity of seed exudates.
Biotin Limitation in
Sinorhizobium meliloti
Strain 1021 Alters Transcription and Translation
Authors: Heinz Elke B. , Streit Wolfgang R.
Published: February 2003

Most
Sinorhizobium meliloti
strains lack several key genes involved in microbial biotin biosynthesis, and it is assumed that this may be a special adaptation which allows the microbe to down-regulate metabolic activities in the absence of a host plant. To further explore this hypothesis, we employed two different strategies. (i) Searches of the
S. meliloti
genome database in combination with the construction of nine different
gusA
reporter fusions identified three genes involved in a biotin starvation response in this microbe. A gene coding for a protein-methyl carboxyl transferase (
pcm
) exhibited 13.6-fold-higher transcription under biotin-limiting conditions than cells grown in the presence of 40 nM biotin. Consistent with this observation, biotin-limiting conditions resulted in a significantly decreased survival of
pcm
mutant cells compared to parental cells or cells grown in the presence of 40 nM biotin. Further studies indicated that the autoinducer synthase gene,
sinI
, was transcribed at a 4.5-fold-higher level in early stationary phase in biotin-starved cells than in biotin-supplemented cells. Lastly, we observed that open reading frame
smc02283
, which codes for a putative copper resistance protein (CopC), was 21-fold down-regulated in response to biotin starvation. (ii) In a second approach, proteome analysis identified 10 proteins which were significantly down-regulated under the biotin-limiting conditions. Among the proteins identified by using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry were the ϖ subunit of the RNA polymerase and the 50S ribosomal protein L7/L12 (L8) subunit, indicating that biotin-limiting conditions generally affect transcription and translation in
S. meliloti
.