bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Among B cell non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, MALT lymphomas express a unique antibody repertoire with frequent rheumatoid factor reactivity
Authors: Bende Richard J. , Aarts Wilhelmina M. , Riedl Robert G. , de Jong Daphne , Pals Steven T. , van Noesel Carel J.M.
Published: April 2005

We analyzed the structure of antigen receptors of a comprehensive panel of mature B non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (B-NHLs) by comparing, at the amino acid level, their immunoglobulin (Ig)VH-CDR3s with CDR3 sequences present in GenBank. Follicular lymphomas, diffuse large B cell lymphomas, Burkitt's lymphomas, and myelomas expressed a CDR3 repertoire comparable to that of normal B cells. Mantle cell lymphomas and B cell chronic lymphocytic leukemias (B-CLLs) expressed clearly restricted albeit different CDR3 repertoires. Lymphomas of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissues (MALTs) were unique as 8 out of 45 (18%) of gastric- and 13 out of 32 (41%) of salivary gland-MALT lymphomas expressed B cell antigen receptors with strong CDR3 homology to rheumatoid factors (RFs). Of note, the RF-CDR3 homology without exception included N-region–encoded residues in the hypermutated IgVH genes, indicating that they were stringently selected for reactivity with auto-IgG. By in vitro binding studies with 10 MALT lymphoma–derived antibodies, we showed that seven of these cases, of which four with RF-CDR3 homology, indeed possessed strong RF reactivity. Of one MALT lymphoma, functional proof for selection of subclones with high RF affinity was obtained. Interestingly, RF-CDR3 homology and t(11;18) appeared to be mutually exclusive features and RF-CDR3 homology was not encountered in any of the 19 pulmonary MALT lymphomas studied.
Early and Delayed Myocardial Infarction after Abdominal Aortic Surgery
Authors: Le Manach Yannick , Perel Azriel , Coriat Pierre , Godet Gilles , Bertrand Michèle , Riou Bruno
Published: April 2005

Background

Although postoperative myocardial infarction (PMI) after vascular surgery has been described to be associated with prolonged ischemia, its exact pathophysiology remains unclear.

Methods

The authors used intense cardiac troponin I (cTnI) surveillance after abdominal aortic surgery in 1,136 consecutive patients to better evaluate the incidence and timing of PMI (cTnI > or = 1.5 ng/ml) or myocardial damage (abnormal cTnI < 1.5 ng/ml).

Results

Abnormal cTnI concentrations was noted in 163 patients (14%), of which 106 (9%) had myocardial damage and 57 (5%) had PMI. In 34 patients (3%), PMI was preceded by a prolonged (> 24 h) period of increased cTnI (delayed PMI), and in 21 patients (2%), the increase in cTnI lasted less than 24 h (early PMI). The mean times from end of surgery to PMI were 37 +/- 22 and 74 +/- 39 h in the early PMI and delayed PMI groups, respectively (P < 0.001). The mean time between the first abnormal cTnI and PMI in the delayed PMI group was 54 +/- 35 h, during which the cTnI profiles of the myocardial damage and delayed PMI groups were identical. In-hospital mortality rates were 24, 21, 7, and 3% for the early PMI, delayed PMI, myocardial damage, and normal groups, respectively.

Conclusions

Intense postoperative cTnI surveillance revealed two types of PMI according to time of appearance and rate of increase in cTnI. The identification of early and delayed PMI may be suggestive of different pathophysiologic mechanisms. Abnormal but low postoperative cTnI is associated with increased mortality and may lead to delayed PMI.
Effect of Metoclopramide on Gastric Fluid Volumes in Diabetic Patients Who Have Fasted before Elective Surgery
Authors: Jellish W Scott , Kartha Vyas , Fluder Elaine , Slogoff Stephen
Published: April 2005

Background

Diabetes-induced gastroparesis is believed to increase fasting gastric fluid volume before elective surgery. Metoclopramide is routinely administered preoperatively to reduce gastric fluid volume in these patients. This study compared nondiabetic controls to non-insulin-dependent and insulin-dependent diabetics to determine the effect of metoclopramide, administered before surgery, on gastric volumes in patients who fasted before surgery.

Methods

Control and diabetic patients fasted preoperatively before receiving either placebo or 10 mg intravenous metoclopramide 20 min before induction of anesthesia. After intubation, a gastric tube was placed, and stomach contents were aspirated with volumes compared among the groups.

Results

Both groups of diabetic patients were older than the control group, and insulin-dependent patients had a higher incidence of comorbidities compared with the non-insulin-dependent group. Fasting blood sugar and hemoglobin A1C values were higher in both insulin-dependent and non-insulin-dependent patients. Gastric fluid volumes were similar in control, non-insulin-dependent, and insulin-dependent patients (8.0 +/- 2.6 vs. 9.6 +/- 4.1 vs. 17.7 +/- 2.5 ml, respectively). In insulin-dependent diabetic patients, metoclopramide decreased gastric volume compared with placebo treatment (17.7 +/- 2.5 vs. 7.8 +/- 2.9 ml; P = 0.027). After stratification, a subpopulation of patients with poorly controlled diabetes, regardless of type, were identified to have increased gastric residual volumes.

Conclusion

In elective surgical patients who have fasted before surgery, gastric volumes are minimal, even in diabetics with severe neuropathic symptoms. Metoclopramide prophylaxis to reduce gastric volumes seems to be unnecessary unless the patient has a prolonged history of poor blood glucose control.
Endoscopic Study of Mechanisms of Failure of Endotracheal Tube Advancement into the Trachea during Awake Fiberoptic Orotracheal Intubation
Authors: Johnson Dana M. , From Aaron M. , Smith Russell B. , From Robert P. , Maktabi Mazen A.
Published: April 2005

Background

Advancing the endotracheal tube (ETT) over a flexible bronchoscope (FB) during awake fiberoptic orotracheal intubation is often impeded. The goal of this study was to identify the sites and mechanisms that inhibit the passing of the ETT into the trachea.

Methods

Forty-five consenting patients underwent a clinically indicated awake fiberoptic orotracheal intubation. After topical anesthesia, nerve block, or both, an awake fiberoptic orotracheal intubation was performed. The placement of the FB and advancement of the ETT over the FB were videotaped using a second nasally inserted FB. An otolaryngologist later reviewed the videotaped data.

Results

The right arytenoid or the interarytenoid soft tissues inhibited advancement of the ETT in 42 and 11% of all patients, respectively. In all cases in which the FB was located on the right side of the larynx, failure of ETT advancement almost always occurred at the right arytenoid. Withdrawing the ETT and rotating it 90 degrees counterclockwise resulted in successful intubation on the second, third, and fourth attempts in 26.6, 20, and 0.7% of patients, respectively.

Conclusion

The right arytenoid frequently inhibits advancement of the ETT over the FB into the trachea during awake fiberoptic orotracheal intubation. The FB position in the larynx before tube advancement and the orientation of the ETT are relevant factors in failure of advancement of the ETT into the trachea. The authors recommend positioning the FB in the center of the larynx and orienting the bevel of the ETT to face posteriorly during the first attempt at intubation.
Onset and Duration of Rocuronium-induced Neuromuscular Blockade in Patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Wick Stefanie , Muenster Tino , Schmidt Joachim , Forst Juergen , Schmitt Hubert J.
Published: April 2005

Background

In patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) the response to nondepolarizing muscle relaxants is scarcely documented and conflicting. The current study was conducted to determine the time to peak effect and the time for complete spontaneous recovery after a single dose of 0.6 mg/kg of rocuronium in patients with DMD.

Methods

Twenty-four patients (12 with DMD, 12 controls, aged 10-16 yr) were studied. All patients were anesthetized with propofol and fentanyl/remifentanil. Neuromuscular transmission was monitored by acceleromyography. After induction all patients received a single dose of 0.6 mg/kg of rocuronium. The complete time course of onset and spontaneous recovery were recorded

Results

Significant (P < 0.01) increase in the onset times to 95% neuromuscular block was observed in DMD patients (median, 203 s; range, 90-420 s) compared with controls (median, 90 s; range, 60-195 s). The time between rocuronium administration and recovery of first twitch of the train-of-four to 90% was significantly (P < 0.01) prolonged in DMD compared with controls (median, 132 min; range, 61-209 min versus 39 min; 22-55 min). The recovery index was also significantly prolonged in the DMD group compared with controls (median, 28 min, range, 15-70 min versus 8 min; 3-14 min).

Conclusions

The most striking and surprising result of this study is the delayed onset of blockade in DMD after a standard dose of rocuronium. This effect should be kept in mind in situations when a rapid airway protection is necessary in DMD patients. The documented very long recovery from rocuronium-induced block emphasizes the need for careful assessment of neuromuscular function in DMD patients.
Modulation of γ-Aminobutyric Acid Type A Receptor–mediated Spontaneous Inhibitory Postsynaptic Currents in Auditory Cortex by Midazolam and Isoflurane
Authors: Verbny Yakov I. , Merriam Elliott B. , Banks Matthew I.
Published: April 2005

Background

Anesthetic agents that target gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA(A)) receptors modulate cortical auditory evoked responses in vivo, but the cellular targets involved are unidentified. Also, for agents with multiple protein targets, the relative contribution of modulation of GABA(A) receptors to effects on cortical physiology is unclear. The authors compared effects of the GABA(A) receptor-specific drug midazolam with the volatile anesthetic isoflurane on spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSCs) in pyramidal cells of auditory cortex.

Methods

Whole cell recordings were obtained in murine brain slices at 34 degrees C. GABA(A) sIPSCs were isolated by blocking ionotropic glutamate receptors. Effects of midazolam and isoflurane on time course, amplitude, and frequency of sIPSCs were measured.

Results

The authors detected no effect of midazolam at 0.01 microM on sIPSCs, whereas midazolam at 0.1 and 1 microM prolonged the decay of sIPSCs by approximately 25 and 70%, respectively. Isoflurane at 0.1, 0.25, and 0.5 mm prolonged sIPSCs by approximately 45, 150, and 240%, respectively. No drug-specific effects were observed on rise time or frequency of sIPSCs. Isoflurane at 0.5 mm caused a significant decrease in sIPSC amplitude.

Conclusions

The dose dependence of isoflurane effects on GABA(A) sIPSCs in pyramidal cells is consistent with effects on auditory evoked response in vivo. By contrast, comparable effects of midazolam on GABA(A) sIPSCs arise at concentrations exceeding those currently thought to be achieved in vivo, suggesting that the cellular targets of midazolam reside elsewhere in the thalamocortical circuit or that the concentration of midazolam reached in the brain is higher than currently believed.
Clinically Relevant Concentrations of Propofol but Not Midazolam Alter In Vitro Dendritic Development of Isolated γ-Aminobutyric Acid-positive Interneurons
Authors: Vutskits Laszlo , Gascon Eduardo , Tassonyi Edomer , Kiss Jozsef Zoltan
Published: April 2005

Background

Recent laboratory studies showed that exposure to supraclinical concentrations of propofol can induce cell death of immature neurons. However, no data are available regarding the effects of clinically relevant concentrations of this agent on neuronal development. The authors addressed this issue by evaluating the effect of propofol on dendritic growth and arbor expansion of developing gamma-aminobutyric acid-positive (GABAergic) interneurons.

Methods

Immature neuroblasts were isolated from the newborn rat subventricular zone and differentiated into GABAergic interneurons in culture. In addition to cell death, the effects of increasing concentrations and durations of propofol exposure on neuronal dendritic development were evaluated using the following morphologic parameters: total dendritic length, primary dendrites, branching point, and Scholl analysis.

Results

The authors demonstrate that propofol induced cell death of GABAergic neurons at concentrations of 50 microg/ml or greater. As little as 1 microg/ml propofol significantly altered several aspects of dendritic development, and as little as 4 h of exposure to this agent resulted in a persistent decrease in dendritic growth. In contrast, application of midazolam did not affect neuronal development.

Conclusion

Short-term exposure of immature developing GABAergic neurons to clinically relevant concentrations of propofol can induce long-term changes in dendritic arbor development. These results suggest that propofol anesthesia during central nervous system development could interfere with the molecular mechanisms driving the differentiation of GABAergic neurons and thus could potentially lead to impairment of neural networks.
Volume Turnover Kinetics of Fluid Shifts after Hemorrhage, Fluid Infusion, and the Combination of Hemorrhage and Fluid Infusion in Sheep
Authors: Norberg Åke , Brauer Kirk I. , Prough Donald S. , Gabrielsson Johan , Hahn Robert G. , Uchida Tatsuo , Traber Daniel L. , Svensén Christer H.
Published: April 2005

Background

Hemorrhage is commonly treated with intravenous infusion of crystalloids. However, the dynamics of fluid shifts between body fluid spaces are not completely known, causing contradictory recommendations regarding timing and volume of fluid infusions. The authors have developed a turnover model that characterizes these fluid shifts.

Methods

Conscious, chronically instrumented sheep (n = 12) were randomly assigned to three protocol groups: infusion of 25 ml/kg of 0.9% saline over 20 min (infusion only), hemorrhage of 300 ml (7.8 +/- 1.1 ml/kg) over 5 min (hemorrhage only), and hemorrhage of 300 ml over 5 min followed by infusion as noted above (hemorrhage plus infusion). A two-compartment volume turnover kinetic model containing seven model parameters was fitted to data obtained by repeated sampling of hemoglobin concentration and urinary excretion.

Results

The volume turnover model successfully predicted fluid shifts. Mean baseline volumes of the central and tissue compartments were 1799 +/- 1276 ml and 7653 +/- 5478 ml, respectively. Immediate fluid infusion failed to prevent hemorrhage-induced depression of cardiac output and diuresis. The model suggested that volume recruitment to the central compartment after hemorrhage was primarily achieved by mechanisms other than volume equilibration between the two model compartments.

Conclusion

Volume turnover kinetics is a promising tool for explaining fluid shifts between body compartments after perturbations such as hemorrhage and intravenous fluid infusions. The pronounced inhibition of renal output after hemorrhage prevailed regardless of fluid infusion and caused fluid retention, which expanded the tissue compartment.
For Outpatient Rotator Cuff Surgery, Nerve Block Anesthesia Provides Superior Same-day Recovery over General Anesthesia
Authors: Hadzic Admir , Williams Brian A. , Karaca Pelin Emine , Hobeika Paul , Unis George , Dermksian Jeffrey , Yufa Marina , Thys Daniel M. , Santos Alan C.
Published: April 2005

Background

Both general and nerve block anesthesia are effective for shoulder surgery. For outpatient surgery, it is important to determine which technique provides more efficient recovery. The authors' goal was to compare nerve block with general anesthesia with respect to recovery profile and patient satisfaction after rotator cuff surgery.

Methods

In this clinical trial, 50 consenting outpatients (aged 18-70 yr) were randomly assigned to receive either fast-track general anesthesia followed by bupivacaine (0.25%) wound infiltration or interscalene brachial plexus block (0.75% ropivacaine), each under standardized protocols. Blinded recovery room nurses assessed the need for pain treatment and rated patient eligibility for bypass of the phase 1 postanesthesia care unit and for discharge home. Patients were followed up for 2 weeks postoperatively. The primary outcome measures were postanesthesia care unit bypass and same-day discharge. Other same-day recovery outcomes included severity of and treatment for pain and time to ambulation. Postoperative outcomes at home included satisfaction with the anesthesia technique and absence of complications (at 2 weeks).

Results

Patients who received nerve block (vs. general anesthesia) bypassed the postanesthesia care unit more frequently (76 vs. 16%; P < 0.001), reported less pain, ambulated earlier, were ready for home discharge sooner (123 vs. 286 min; P < 0.001), had no unplanned hospital admissions (vs. 4 of 25 patients who underwent general anesthesia; P = 0.05), and were more satisfied with their care. No complications were reported in either treatment group.

Conclusions

Nerve block anesthesia for outpatient rotator cuff surgery provides several same-day recovery advantages over general anesthesia.
Intravenous Butorphanol, Meperidine, and Their Combination Relieve Pain and Distress in Women in Labor
Authors: Nelson Kenneth E. , Eisenach James C.
Published: April 2005

Background

Systemic opioids are commonly administered during labor, but their efficacy has been recently questioned. In addition, laboratory and clinical studies provide a strong rationale for combining mu- and kappa-opioid receptor agonists for analgesia. The authors therefore studied, using validated intensity and affective scales and definitions of effective pain relief, the efficacy of intravenous meperidine, butorphanol, and their combination for labor analgesia.

Methods

Healthy women with singleton term pregnancy requesting analgesia during active labor were studied. Women were randomly assigned to receive 50 mg meperidine, 1 mg butorphanol, or 25 mg meperidine plus 0.5 mg butorphanol (n = 15/group). Pain intensity was assessed using a 0-10 numerical rating scale, and affective magnitude was assessed using a ratiometric descriptive scale before drug administration and between the sixth and seventh uterine contractions after drug administration.

Results

All three treatments reduced pain intensity equally. Butorphanol alone did not reduce pain affective magnitude, whereas the other treatments did. There was a significant correlation between reduction in pain intensity and affective magnitude in all groups, with greater reductions in affective magnitude than intensity. Overall, 29% of women exhibited clinically meaningful pain relief, with no difference among groups. Groups did not differ in incidence of opioid-induced adverse effects.

Conclusions

These doses of meperidine and butorphanol do reduce pain intensity and affective magnitude, although a minority of patients achieve meaningful pain relief as defined in multiple patient populations, including laboring women. Combination of these drugs did not improve their therapeutic benefit.
Forty-eight Hours of Postoperative Pain Relief after Total Hip Arthroplasty with a Novel, Extended-Release Epidural Morphine Formulation
Authors: Viscusi Eugene R. , Martin Gavin , Hartrick Craig T. , Singla Neil , Manvelian Garen
Published: April 2005

Background

Epidural morphine has proven analgesic efficacy in the postoperative period and is widely used. This study evaluated the efficacy of extended-release epidural morphine (EREM; DepoDur; Endo Pharmaceuticals Inc., Chadds Ford, PA; SkyePharma, Inc., San Diego, CA) in providing pain relief for 48 h after surgery.

Methods

Patients (n = 200) scheduled to undergo total hip arthroplasty were randomized to receive a single dose of 15, 20, or 25 mg EREM or placebo. After surgery and after asking for pain medication, patients had access to intravenous patient-controlled analgesia fentanyl for breakthrough pain as needed. Postoperative intravenous patient-controlled analgesia fentanyl use, time to first postoperative fentanyl use, pain intensity at rest and with activity, patient and surgeon ratings of pain control, and adverse events were recorded.

Results

All EREM dosages reduced the mean (+/- SD) fentanyl use versus placebo (510 +/- 708 vs. 2,091 +/- 1,803 microg; P < 0.0001) and delayed the median time to first dose of fentanyl (21.3 vs. 3.6 h; P < 0.0001). All EREM groups had significantly improved pain control at rest through 48 h postdose (area under the curve [0-48 h]) compared with placebo (P < 0.0005). More EREM-treated patients rated their pain control as good or very good compared with placebo (at 24 h: 90 vs. 65%, P < 0.0001; at 48 h: 83 vs. 67%, P < 0.05). No supplemental analgesia was needed in 25% of EREM-treated patients and 2% of placebo-treated patients at 48 h (P < 0.05). The safety profile of EREM was consistent with that of other epidurally administered opioid analgesics.

Conclusions

EREM provided significant postoperative pain relief over a 48-h period after hip surgery, without the need for indwelling epidural catheters.
Perioperative Acupuncture and Related Techniques
Authors: Chernyak Grigory V. , Sessler Daniel I. , Warltier David C.
Published: April 2005

Acupuncture and related techniques are increasingly practiced in conventional medical settings, and the number of patients willing to use these techniques is increasing. Despite more than 30 yr of research, the exact mechanism of action and efficacy of acupuncture have not been established. Furthermore, most aspects of acupuncture have yet to be adequately tested. Therefore, considerable controversy remains about the role of acupuncture in clinical medicine. Acupuncture apparently does not reduce volatile anesthetic requirement by a clinically important amount. However, preoperative sedation seems to be a promising application of acupuncture in perioperative settings. Acupuncture may be effective for postoperative pain relief but requires a high level of expertise by the acupuncture practitioner. Acupuncture and related techniques can be used for treatment and prophylaxis of postoperative nausea and vomiting in routine clinical practice in combination with or as an alternative to conventional antiemetics when administered before induction of general anesthesia.
Institutional arrangement and unauthorised building works in Hong Kong
Authors: Yiu C.Y.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To explain the serious social problem of unauthorised building works (UBWs) in Hong Kong and why this problem is difficult to overcome.

Design/methodology/approach

An institutional economics approach is adopted. This paper concentrates on the governance zone of the institutional arrangement.

Findings

The current institutional arrangement in Hong Kong encourages owners to build UBWs, and makes the identification of UBWs very complicated. This paper concludes that the existing framework of governance fails to take into account the conflict of interests in collective goods. The no‐retrospective‐approval stipulation also renders a no‐alternative solution.

Research limitations/implications

It is a case study of Hong Kong, but it has research implications on institutional economics under the current arrangement of co‐ownership.

Practical implications

An important element in structural surveys is to ensure the structural safety of a building. An understanding on the governance of UBWs has serious implications for the structural survey approach.

Originality/value

This paper is the first paper on exploring UBWs from an institutional economics framework.
Customers' adoption of banking channels in Hong Kong
Authors: Wan Wendy W.N. , Luk Chung‐Leung , Chow Cheris W.C.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The study sought to investigate factors that influenced Hong Kong bank customers’ adoption of four major banking channels, i.e. branch banking, ATM, telephone banking, and internet banking. Specifically, it aimed to focus on the influences of demographic variables and psychological beliefs about the positive attributes possessed by the channels.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on extant literature on bank marketing and interviews with ten bank managers in Hong Kong, a questionnaire was designed. Then, in a large‐scale survey by means of mall‐intercept and telephone interviews, we successfully obtained data from 314 bank customers.

Findings

Overall, ATM was the most frequently adopted channel, followed by internet banking and branch banking, and telephone banking was the least frequently adopted channel. Psychological beliefs about the extent to which a channel possessed certain positive attributes were more predictive of adoptions of ATM and internet banking than adoptions of branch banking and telephone banking. Demographic backgrounds were strongly associated with adoption of all banking channels except ATM. A major research implication is that the theory of reasoned action is less applicable when a behavior is habitual, such as the adoptions of branch banking and telephone banking.

Research limitations/implications

The managerial implications are that telephone banking can be gradually phased out, whereas internet banking is becoming the dominant channel in the future. For branch banking, different marketing strategies should be adopted for those who are financially and cognitively less resourceful, and those who are wealthier but higher time cost.

Originality/value

The value of the study for bank managers is that it provides an updated account of the banking behaviors of Hong Kong bank customers.
Price, brand cues, and banking customer value
Authors: Chen Tser‐yieth , Chang Pao‐Long , Chang Hong‐Sheng
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to elucidate how price, brand cues and customer value are related, and to explore the influence of price and brand cues through service quality and perceived risk on customer value, focusing specifically on Taiwan.

Design/methodology/approach

Samples were collected using a questionnaire which assessed the quality of our measurement efforts by investigating reliability and validity. We then compared our hypothesized model with a rival model based on the overall fit, parsimony, and percentage of model parameters that were statistically significant.

Findings

Service quality is found to be positively affected by brand cues, whereas perceived risks are negatively influenced by price cues. Exactly how customer value is affected by the service quality and perceived risk is considered. Brand cues notably indirectly affect customer value through service quality, whereas price cues notably indirectly affect customer value through perceived risk.

Research limitations/implications

For future research, how other external cues may influence perception of quality and risk with extrinsic information should be discussed.

Practical implications

In practice, bank managers can hone the relevant cues and optimize investments to raise service quality or lower consumers' perceived risk.

Originality/value

This study provides a new perspective of the “structural” relationships among price and brand cues, service quality and perceived risk.
Marketing policies of companies in a cyclical sector: an empirical study of the construction industry in the United Kingdom
Authors: Bennett Roger
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To establish the best approaches that companies operating within a cyclical economic environment should adopt when marketing their products.

Design/methodology/approach

A structural equation modelling procedure is applied to the examination of the influences on corporate performance of certain policies pursued during cyclical downturns. The degrees to which these policies are implemented are hypothesised to depend on factors such as a firm's age and managerial experience of cyclical fluctuations, marketing orientation, and whether business cycles are explicitly taken into account when formulating corporate strategies. In total, 119 businesses in the UK construction industry participated in the investigation.

Findings

The relative effects of a number of explanatory variables on performance and its assumed antecedents are reported. Firms adopting “long‐term” approaches to marketing management across cycles tended to attain superior performance. However, short‐term approaches to marketing were commonplace.

Research limitations/implications

Self‐declared information on company performance was utilised. Also the study only considered a single industry (construction), so the results might not be generalisable to other sectors.

Practical implications

The outcomes offer practical advice to managers in the construction industry regarding their staff recruitment, retention and development policies during cyclical downturns, their employment of relationship marketing, and appropriate corporate strategies and budgeting methods for use in cyclical environments.

Originality/value

This is the first published study to explore construction companies' marketing responses to cyclical conditions.
UK leisure centres under best value: a strategic analysis
Authors: Benson Angela , Henderson Steven
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To understand the effects of the best value regime on the public provision of recreation at the level of the leisure centre.

Design/methodology/approach

A strategic auditing device is applied to 87 leisure centres to investigate the strategic variables of environmental stability and attractiveness, service strengths and financial resources. The analysis produces a typology of leisure centres, and evaluates the prospects of each type under best value.

Findings

The findings suggest that a large number of leisure centres managed by local authorities will make limited headway in implementing best value. What is more, many face problems that will be exacerbated, rather than eased, by current policy. Leisure centres managed by Trusts generally face more benign local environments, which appear to offer greater prospects, but it is clear that Trust status itself offers few advantages outside a greater range of financial sources.

Research limitations/implications

The research focuses on strategic choices as they face leisure centre managers. It does not directly explore the strategic and policy decisions made at other levels.

Practical implications

The paper argues for subtler recreation policy (and by implication, the provision of public sector services generally) that pays due regard to the local conditions of service providers. Policy that focuses only on general prescription of managerial (and often rhetorical) practices will frequently lead strategies towards satisficing performance indicators that may be arbitrary, rather than focusing on problems and issues as they face professional leisure managers.

Originality/value

The use of a formal strategy tool as the level of a service provider is novel, and augments work on hybrid firms facing strategic choices based not only on political factors but also private sector market‐oriented competitors. Further, useful comparisons are made between leisure centres managed by Trusts and those still controlled by a Local Authority. The data provided will also help to inform practical and academic debates concerning the application of quality standards and management practices in the leisure sector.
Regulating prices and profits in utility industries in low‐income economies
Authors: Parker David , Kirkpatrick Colin
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to examine alternative methods of regulating prices and/or profits of privatised utilities in low‐income countries with a view to identifying their strengths and weaknesses.

Design/methodology/approach

The economics of regulation literature has favoured the use of a price cap over rate of return or cost of service regulation because of its greater incentive effects. A third alternative, sliding‐scale regulation, has been put forward as a compromise between the price cap and a controlled rate of return, which is said to combine the merits of both methods. This paper considers the operation of a price cap, rate of return regulation and sliding‐scale regulation in the context of low‐income economies by reviewing the theory in relation to the conditions likely to be found in low‐income economies.

Findings

It is concluded that the case for the use of a price cap is much reduced in low‐income economies. This is because of its information requirements, need for regulatory expertise and, more broadly, the institutional endowment found in many low‐income countries.

Research limitations/implications

It is recognised that this conclusion is tentative and deserves further research, comparing theory and practice.

Practical implications

Countries need to consider carefully which method of regulation will work best in the context of the institutions of the country, rather than simply copy a method from the developed world.

Originality/value

This is one of the first papers to challenge the prevailing belief that price cap regulation is superior to rate of return regulation in the context of economic development.
E‐business migration: a process model
Authors: Krell Terence , Gale Jeffrey
Published: April 2005

Purpose

This work aims to develop a process model for the migration of the traditional firm to an appropriate e‐business strategy and architecture.

Design/methodology/approach

The work is based on a range of published works and professional experience, combining narrative with analysis.

Findings

This complex model addresses the multiplicity of factors that must be included in effective e‐business migration. The model addresses technology, business processes, strategy and the consequent organizational change.

Originality/value

Focuses on a model that can serve as a basis for dispelling a number of myths reflected in current e‐business migration and implementation efforts.
Technology innovation‐induced business model change: a contingency approach
Authors: Pateli Adamantia G. , Giaglis George M.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To construct and test, through its application to a real case study, a methodology that generates contingencies for the evolution of a company or an industry's reference business model (BM) under the impact of a technology innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on theoretical predicaments of organizational development and scenario planning as well as more recently published works (2001‐2004) on BM design and change in order to build the primary steps of the methodology. A contingency approach is applied for selecting among alternatives the most suitable future BM. The usefulness and applicability of the provided methodology are proved through a real case study that concerns changing the exhibition's industry reference BM under the impact of a mobile innovation.

Findings

The proposed methodology is primarily useful in cases where a strategic manager wishes to draw and assess not one totally new BM but a set of scenarios that reflect alternative configurations for its current BM evolution. Such a methodology needs to be complemented with a contingency framework for guiding the selection of the scenario that better suits the internal and external environment of the company.

Research limitations/implications

It is expected that related theories, such as the theory of Industrial Organization and the theory of Network Economics, also need to be examined under the light of BM change to identify and cross‐validate factors that contribute to the design and assessment of BMs.

Practical implications

The ultimate utility of the proposed methodology is as a road‐map for leading change in the value‐creation logic of a firm, taking advantage of an advanced technology solution. By continuously changing their BM, and identifying new ways to deliver value to their customers, firms aspire to obtain and sustain a competitive advantage in high‐velocity environments.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified research gap for a structured approach towards changing the BM of a firm, which introduces a technology innovation by keeping the principles of the old (traditional) business logic and taking into account the effects incurred from the firm's internal and external environment.
Mobile internet acceptance in Korea
Authors: Ho Cheong Je , Park Myeong‐Cheol
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The increasing number of M‐internet subscribers and the fast growing revenue proves the great potential of M‐internet as well as the enormous business opportunity in Korea. The success in this business is dependent on understanding the concerns of customers and identifying the factors that promote the use of M‐internet. Thus, this paper aims to examine the human motivations underlying individual behavioral intention to use M‐internet in Korea.

Design/methodology/approach

Employs TAM (technology acceptance model) as the base model and develops a more comprehensive version of TAM to better reflect M‐internet context. The model employs perceived playfulness, contents quality, system quality, internet experience and perceived price level, in addition to perceived usefulness and ease of use. Investigates the causal relationships among the constructs used in this revised TAM and identifies the direct and indirect causal role of the constructs in developing the intention to use M‐internet.

Findings

Finds that attitude toward M‐internet is the most significant factor in predicting the behavioral intention to use M‐internet. Also identifies the positive role of the perceived playfulness and the negative role of perceived price level in developing the attitude as well as the intention. The positive causal relationships of “perceived contents quality – perceived usefulness”, “perceived system quality– perceived usefulness” and “internet experience–perceived ease of use” were also witnessed.

Practical implications

Considering the explosive growth of the M‐internet market, well‐established business strategy in M‐internet will deliver great success to the mobile operators. Thus, understanding comprehensive causal relationship among the constructs used in this revised TAM would help managers to better implement the strategic ramifications in promoting M‐internet.

Originality/value

Develops a more comprehensive version of TAM to better reflect M‐internet context in Korea, adding five new constructs and identifies the role of the construct in promoting the use of M‐internet.
Waiting for service on the internet
Authors: Ryan Gerard , Valverde Mireia
Published: April 2005

Purpose

E‐consumers consistently complain that the internet is frustratingly slow. Most existing research on this phenomenon is based on the concept of “download delay”, that is, the time required for a web page to fully download to the e‐consumer's computer screen. This paper reports on an exploratory study of the phenomenon of waiting for service on the internet with the intention of extending the narrow conceptualisation of the phenomenon of “download delay” to a more user‐based perspective of waiting on the internet.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a qualitative research methodology. The research methods are seven asynchronous virtual focus groups involving 126 intensive internet users over 17 days and 92 participants who maintained personal diaries of waiting on the internet over a nine‐week period.

Findings

A new definition of waiting on the internet is proposed based on extensive virtual focus group research. Subsequently, 14 distinct types of internet waiting situations are identified based on the analysis of a total of 1,041 waiting situations as reported by the participants in the study.

Practical implications

A number of practical implications for various functional areas of the business are outlined. Conceptual and methodological contributions are also made.

Originality/value

The study is the first to present a broader conceptualisation of waiting on the internet from an e‐consumer perspective and based on empirical research. All previous research has been based on just one type of online waiting, i.e. waiting for web pages to download to the user's screen. This paper presents 13 “new” types of waiting situations on the internet.
Stimulatory and inhibitory effects of testosterone on testes in Atlantic salmon male parr
Authors: Berglund I. , Antonopoulou E. , Mayer I. , Borg B.
Published: April 2005

Immature 1‐year‐old Atlantic salmon Salmo salar parr were implanted with Silastic capsules of different sizes filled with testosterone (T). Testosterone had both positive and negative effects on testicular weights, spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. The positive effects: higher incidence of males with enlarged gonads, spermiation, and high plasma levels of 11‐ketotestosterone (11‐KT) and 17,20β‐dihydroxy‐4‐pregnen‐3‐one (17,20β‐P), were most pronounced in males treated with small T capsules. The negative effects: suppression of gonadal development and depressed plasma levels of 11‐KT and 17,20β‐P compared with mature controls, were most evident in fish treated with large T capsules.
Genetic relationships among species of hagfish revealed by protein electrophoresis
Authors: Jansson H. , Wyöni P.‐I. , Fernholm B. , Bredwad M. , Mierzykowska A. , Tegelström H.
Published: April 2005

Hagfish species of the genera Myxine, Eptatretus and Paramyxine were analysed for genetic variation by allozyme electrophoresis and isoelectric focusing of general proteins. Large genetic differences were observed between samples of supposed conspecifics of Myxine circifrons from off the Californian coast, and also within one sample of Paramyxine sp. from Sagami Bay, Japan. The results are convincing evidence of the existence of additional sympatric species in these two areas. In general, the highest genetic identities were found between species within the subfamilies Myxininae and Eptatretinae. Within Eptatretinae, the Japanese species Eptatretus burgeri was genetically more similar to Japanese species of Paramyxine than to American species of Eptatretus. Thus, our data indicate that the generic status of Paramyxine should be reconsidered.
Acclimation trials of juvenile Italian sturgeon to different salinities: morpho‐physiological descriptors
Authors: Cataldi E. , Ciccotti E. , Dimarco P. , Disanto O. , Bronzi P. , Cataudella S.
Published: April 2005

In this study the first experimental trials of acclimation to salinities of the Italian sturgeon Acipenser naccarii are described. Preliminary observations regarding some morphological features of the gut, kidney and gills following exposure to 20 and 30% salinity are reported, and compared with those displayed by many teleosts in hyper‐ and hypoosmoregulation. Results are discussed with regard to the osmoregulatory mechanisms and to the physiological limits of adaptability of this species in the second year of its life cycle. Within the Acipenseridae, Acipenser naccarii is generally considered a euryhaline species, but nothing is known about its mechanisms of osmotic homeostasis. This species could be a good candidate for aquaculture in fresh and brackish waters owing to the recent success obtained in artificial reproduction.
Chromosomal evidence for laboratory synthesis of a triploid hybrid between the gynogenetic teleost Poecilia formosa and its host species
Authors: Nanda I. , Schartl M. , Feichtinger W. , Schlupp I. , Parzefall J. , Schmid M.
Published: April 2005

Cytogenetic analyses were performed on a triploid hybrid individual produced in the laboratory by mating Poecilia formosa, an all‐female gynogenetic diploid species, with a normal male of melanistic ornamental Poecilia sphenops (black molly). Direct chromosome preparations revealed 69 (3n) chromosomes in the somatic complement. This cytogenetic observation in conjunction with the pigmentation phenotype leads us to conclude that occasional failure of sperm exclusion may result in the presence of triploid hybrids even in the natural habitats.
Effects of temperature, salinity, and fish size on growth and consumption of juvenile bluefish
Authors: Buckel J. A. , Steinberg N. D. , Conover D. O.
Published: April 2005

Consumption and growth rates of juvenile bluefish Pomatomus saltatrix increased with increasing temperature and decreased with increasing fish size in short‐term (7 days) experiments. Salinity had no effect on growth or consumption rate in a short‐term experiment. In a long‐term (90 days) mesocosm experiment, consumption and growth rates declined with increasing body size. Predictive equations developed from short‐term experiments did not adequately predict observed consumption rates in the mesocosm experiment. However, growth in the mesocosm experiment was similar to field growth. Also, mesocosm consumption rates and consumption rates calculated using field growth and mesocosm growth efficiencies were similar to published independent field estimates of consumption rate. Our results indicate that experiments to determine the effects of temperature and the allometry of body size on growth and consumption rates should be conducted over long time periods simulating field conditions. Juvenile bluefish have rapid growth and their individual cumulative consumption is large. This result suggests that bluefish may have a large effect on their prey populations. This effect has yet to be quantified.
Discrimination between Anguilla anguilla and A. rostrata by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis
Authors: Tagliavini J. , Harrison I. J. , Gandolfi G.
Published: April 2005

HinfI polymorphism, detected in the mitochondrial DNA, discriminates between the Atlantic eel species Anguilla anguilla and A. rostrata.
Liquid Precursor Infiltration Processing of Powder Compacts: I, Kinetic Studies and Microstructure Development
Authors: Tu Wen‐Chiang , Lange Fred F.
Published: April 2005

The kinetics of infiltrating a solution precursor into Si3N4 powder compacts were studied using either water or an aqueous solution of Zr‐nitrate and Y‐nitrate that formed a crystalline Zr(Y)O2 (3 mol% Y2O3) solid solution during pyrolysis. When the powder compact contained air, the infiltration involved two steps: (1) relatively rapid intrusion of liquid via flow due to capillary pressure and (2) diffusion of entrapped gas to the surface as its pressure became equal to the capillary pressure. The kinetics of both processes are described with different parabolic rate laws–Darcy's law and Fick's law, respectively. When the intruded precursor is converted to an inorganic during heat treatment, the void space is partially filled with pyrolyzed precursor without shrinkage of the Si3N4 powder. The kinetics of subsequent cycles depend on the permeability of the pyrolyzed precursor, which depends on its microstructural development during heat treatment subsequent to pyrolysis. Surface cracks can form within the powder compact during either precursor drying or pyrolysis; they can be avoided by strengthening the powder compact by forming small necks between touching particles via evaporation–condensation. Precursor molecules were found to concentrate near the surface as the precursor solvent was removed by drying. The movement of precursor molecules was prevented by gelling prior to drying, viz., by soaking the infiltrated bodies in an aqueous NH4OH solution. Microstructures developed during cyclic precursor infiltration and pyrolysis were characterized to show that cracklike voids are produced within the pyrolyzed precursor due to its large volume change during pyrolysis and densification; the size distribution of the cracklike voids is proportional to the size distribution of the voids within the initial powder compact.