bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The 30–70 day oscillations in the tropical Atlantic
Authors: Foltz Gregory R. , McPhaden Michael J.
Published: February 2005

Evidence is presented for intraseasonal oscillations in the trade winds of the northern and southern tropical Atlantic. The pattern of intraseasonal oscillations in surface pressure and wind speed in the Northern Hemisphere resembles that of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). Like the NAO, these oscillations have a strong seasonal cycle, with a maximum amplitude in boreal winter/spring. Winds in the southern tropical Atlantic are related to the Southern Hemisphere equivalent of the NAO, exhibiting a weaker seasonality with peak amplitudes in austral winter. The Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO), which originates over the Indian Ocean, also exerts an influence on tropical Atlantic surface winds, particularly between about 10°N and 10°S. Where intraseasonal wind speed oscillations in the Atlantic are strong, they force changes in sea surface temperature (SST) through latent heat loss from the ocean, potentially affecting lower frequency climate variations.
On Indigeneity, Change, and Representation in the Northeastern Ecuadorian Amazon
Authors: Valdivia Gabriela
Published: February 2005

Neoliberal reforms throughout Latin America are intended to promote development by opening up economies and encouraging market-oriented practices. These reforms have deeply affected the lives of indigenous peoples and their relationship with extralocal actors. Today, in the Ecuadorian Amazon, some indigenous peoples participate in oil-extraction negotiations, tourism, and intensive cattle ranching and agriculture as part of increased market integration. In the midst of these changes, questions about what ‘indigeneity’ means, both in integrating into and in resisting neoliberal reforms, are increasingly important for understanding social justice and environmental conservation issues in the Amazon region. The author explores how engagement with neoliberal practices and ways of knowing the world has opened up spaces for questioning fixed notions of indigenous identities and their role in representing, imagining, and developing indigenous alliances and rights claims in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
Comparative Topographies of Neoliberalism in Mexico
Authors: Martin Patricia M
Published: February 2005

The author presents a comparative study of neoliberalism in two Mexican localities, Monterrey and Oaxaca, using the analytical lens of a ‘topography’. Although in theory a common set of ideas underpins neoliberal ideology and policy, in practice the way in which neoliberal projects are materialized in specific locations is differentiated, segmented, and highly uneven. Reflecting this, neoliberalism appears to have exacerbated regional differences in Mexico. An emphasis on topography draws attention to the political–economic processes that produce such difference. This destabilizes commonsensical representations of regional difference in Mexico, which pit a modern, industrialized, and increasingly democratic North against an impoverished, traditional, and authoritarian South. Furthermore, drawing analytical linkages across place allows the production of situated political responses to neoliberalism to be brought into coalition.
Molecular cloning and characterization of murine caspase-12 gene promoter
Authors: Oubrahim Hammou , Wang Jun , Stadtman Earl R. , Chock P. Boon
Published: February 2005

The activation of caspase-12 is involved in endoplasmic reticulum-mediated apoptosis. To investigate how caspase-12 is transcriptionally and translationally regulated, we isolated and sequenced the 5′-flanking region of mouse caspase-12 gene by a PCR-mediated chromosome-walking technique, using mouse genomic DNA as a template. Two DNA fragments of 3,221 and 800 bp were isolated and cloned into pGL3 promoterless vector upstream of the luciferase gene. The small DNA fragment contains the first intron sequence located downstream of the first exon and 27 bp from the second exon, whereas the large fragment contains the small fragment and the 5′-flanking region. Reporter constructs generated from these DNA fragments showed a substantial promoter activity in mouse NIH 3T3 or human embryonic kidney 293 cells grown in the presence of 10% serum. In the absence of serum, the luciferase activity was drastically reduced. However, the luciferase mRNA was higher in serum-starved cells than in control cells, suggesting that translation of luciferase mRNA was drastically inhibited. However, Western blot analysis revealed that the quantity of procaspase-12 is actually higher in serum-starved cells relative to that cultured in the presence of 10% serum. Progressive deletion analysis of the 3,221-bp sequence revealed that the highest luciferase activity was observed with the construct containing 700 bp upstream of ATG. The transcriptional initiation site was identified by 5′ RACE techniques using total RNA from NIH 3T3 cells. Our results should facilitate studies on the mechanism regulating the expression of this important gene.
Structural mechanism for ubiquitinated-cargo recognition by the Golgi-localized, γ-ear-containing, ADP-ribosylation-factor-binding proteins
Authors: Prag Gali , Lee Sangho , Mattera Rafael , Arighi Cecilia N. , Beach Bridgette M. , Bonifacino Juan S. , Hurley James H.
Published: February 2005

The Golgi-localized, γ-ear-containing, Arf (ADP-ribosylation factor)-binding (GGA) proteins are clathrin adaptors that mediate the sorting of transmembrane-cargo molecules at the trans-Golgi network and endosomes. Cargo proteins can be directed into the GGA pathway by at least two different types of sorting signals: acidic cluster–dileucine motifs and covalent modification by ubiquitin. The latter modification is recognized by the GGAs through binding to their GAT [GGA and TOM (target of Myb)] domain. Here we report the crystal structure of the GAT domain of human GGA3 in a 1:1 complex with ubiquitin at 2.8-Å resolution. Ubiquitin binds to a hydrophobic and acidic patch on helices α1 and α2 of the GAT three-helix bundle that includes Asn-223, Leu-227, Glu-230, Met-231, Asp-244, Glu-246, Leu-247, Glu-250, and Leu-251. The GAT-binding surface on ubiquitin is a hydrophobic patch centered on Ile-44 that is also responsible for binding most other ubiquitin effectors. The ubiquitin-binding site observed in the crystal is distinct from the Rabaptin-5-binding site on helices α2 and α3 of the GAT domain. Mutational analysis and modeling of the ubiquitin–Rabaptin-5–GAT ternary complex indicates that ubiquitin and Rabaptin-5 can bind to the GAT domain at two different sites without any steric conflict. This ability highlights the GAT domain as a hub for interactions with multiple partners in trafficking.
The nature of information in the twenty‐first century
Authors: Macgregor George
Published: February 2005

Purpose

With the proliferation of electronic information via the web a further distension of the unique characteristics of information has been witnessed. With seismic developments occurring in such a short period of time, it seems prudent to consider the very nature of information and to assess whether this accelerated growth has implications for the work of the informatics community and the information society.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins by revisiting and refreshing the unique characteristics of information via a reappraisal of the relevant literature. These characteristics are then contextualised within the new economy and traditional economic theory. Once these unique characteristics have been examined, the author discusses how the nature of information in the twenty‐first century presents the informatics community with new and difficult challenges.

Findings

The challenges posed by the unique nature of information demand a definite response on the part of the informatics community, including the creation of innovative new models to accommodate information's inherent characteristics. Additionally, as the nature of information evolves yet further and ICT innovations accelerate, ever more adaptable skills will be required by the end user in order that value be derived from information.

Practical implications

Outcomes and conclusions addressed in the paper may inform the informatics community generally, but will specifically inform the practice of information managers and librarians, and offer ways of assisting them in arriving at holistic decisions with respect to service provision.

Originality/value

The paper is a contribution to the debate on the precise nature of information and offers new perspectives on how the informatics community should view information in the twenty‐first century.
Vocational Education and Industry Training in Australia
Authors: Anderson Alastair A.
Published: February 2005

Australia is at a watershed in her economic history. The prosperity characteristic of the post‐war era has vanished. In 1994 the Australian economy is just beginning to emerge from a recession which has been likened by many commentators to the Great Depression. Australia is caught in midstream with a poorly structured manufacturing sector, high levels of long‐term unemployment and external debt. Pressures on the manufacturing sector are evidenced by the impact of the Button Plan on automotive manufacturing as well as the footwear, clothing and textiles sector. Manufacturing does not appear to be viable without massive restructuring. Industry training and the development of a new workplace culture are seen as integral to this task. Highlights aspects of Australia′s post‐war economic history and the changing character of the labour market. Advocates a movement away from traditional forms of work organization and narrowly defined occupational classifications. Proposes that educators and training professionals must develop and apply a training philosophy, focused on developing a workforce with a sound basic education together with more broadly based and flexible work skills.
Customer loyalty and the effect of switching costs as a moderator variable
Authors: Aydin Serkan , Özer Gökhan , Arasil Ömer
Published: February 2005

Purpose

In the GSM mobile telephony sector, the main condition for protecting the subscriber base is to win customer loyalty, a key necessity for the maintenance of a brand's life in the long term. To achieve this aim, customer satisfaction and trust must be measured and “switching costs” identified. The latter render subscribers' preference for rival operators more expensive. In this connection, this paper's aim is to measure the effects of customer satisfaction and trust on customer loyalty, and the direct and indirect effect of “switching cost” on customer loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

The data set covered 1,662 mobile phone users in Turkey. The data were analyzed by moderated regression analysis to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The findings of this study show that the switching cost factor directly affects loyalty, and has a moderator effect on both customer satisfaction and trust. Therefore, it plays a crucial role in winning customer loyalty. In short, it is a quasi moderator. However, switching costs was measured as a unidimensional factor, but switching costs in fact contains psychological, financial and procedural sub‐dimensions. Therefore, future research might measure the sub‐dimensions of switching costs and examine their moderating effects.

Originality/value

With respect to the findings, trust has more importance than customer satisfaction in engendering loyalty, since trust contains belief in the brand, which provides positive outcomes not only in the present but also in the future. But customer satisfaction does not contain this dimension. So, the effect of trust on loyalty becomes greater than the effect of customer satisfaction. Therefore, any GSM operator who wishes to preserve its existing subscriber base should concentrate on winning its subscribers’ trust.
Latest trends and issues in the ASP service market
Authors: Gupta Atul , Kanthi Herath Siriyama
Published: February 2005

Purpose

To provide students and academia with an opportunity to gain an understanding of recent trends and issues regarding the application service providers (ASP) market.

Design/methodology/approach

A range of recently published (1999‐2003) works, which provide practical issues, is reviewed to explore the existing pricing models, selecting an ASP and risk/rewards associated with ASPs.

Findings

Provides guidance to businesses in selecting an ASP in terms of key questions to be asked and discusses the importance of selecting reliable ASPs. It also recognizes key areas academia should emphasize in teaching students outsourcing of IT.

Research limitations/implications

It is not an extensive study of the issues and trends of ASPs. The paper does not review in detail the impact of outsourcing on organizational participants, which perhaps limits its usefulness in a complex business world.

Practical implications

A very useful source of information for businesses making outsourcing decisions. The paper provides impartial advice for students and academia and for those who want to conduct research on outsourcing evaluation.

Originality/value

This paper provides important insights on recent trends and issues of ASPs, especially in evaluating the performance of ASPs.
Customer‐oriented financial service personalization
Authors: Huang Eugenia Y. , Lin Chia‐Yu
Published: February 2005

Purpose

This paper derives a personalization framework for financial services by a literature review and examines the framework against the customer's perspective via the Delphi method.

Design/methodology/approach

The framework exhibits a product‐process viewpoint, while the panelists express a cost‐benefit viewpoint.

Findings

Concludes that financial firms should transform the content of relevance from product‐process dimensions to cost‐benefit dimensions. For customers to weigh benefits over costs, financial services should raise the level of service sophistication by keeping the promise of personal privacy, improving the accuracy and relevance of personalization results, and providing a convenient feedback channel that empowers customers by granting them full control over the accuracy of their personal information.

Originality/value

This paper explores why certain personalization practices are embraced by customers while others create nothing but nuisance.
Finite element calculation of thermal coupling between
workpiece and tools in forging
Authors: Miles M.P. , Fourment L. , Chenot J.L.
Published: February 2005

A finite‐element model for calculating the die temperature
profile for a hot‐forging operation is presented. The workpiece
is modelled as a thermo‐viscoplastic material, while the dies
are considered undeformable. Heat transfer between the dies and
the workpiece is modelled using an iteratively coupled,
fixed‐point calculation of the temperature in each domain.
Transfer of temperature boundary conditions across contact
interfaces is performed for non‐coincident meshes, using a
boundary integration point contact analysis. Two
industrial‐type examples are presented. In the first example,
the effectiveness of the transfer of the temperature boundary
conditions for a non steady‐state forging process is evaluated
and determined to be satisfactory. Then weakly‐ and
strongly‐coupled temperature resolutions are compared. It was
found that the strongly‐coupled resolution may be necessary in
order to obtain reasonably accurate results. In the second
example, the weakly‐coupled resolution is compared to a
constant‐temperature die approach for a relatively slow forging
process, which shows the influence of the die temperature on the
flow of the material.
New design formulas for microstrip transmission lines using high‐dielectric substrate
Authors: Lamine Tounsi Mohamed , Yagoub Mustapha C.E. , Haraoubia Brahim
Published: February 2005

Purpose

Characterisation and use of dielectric materials with high permittivity are one of the most developed areas of research in microwave circuit simulation. This is mainly because of their various applications in VHF/UHF and microwave frequencies (correlators, instrumentation systems, …). The primary virtue of high‐dielectric substrates for microwave circuits is the reduced size. Since the high dielectric microstrip line also exhibit low loss and useful impedance range, this class of circuits will undoubtedly find wide applications in microwave integrated circuitry.

Design/methodology/approach

Owing to the complexity of the electromagnetic problem, numerical methods become an indispensable tool for analysis and modeling of electromagnetic structures. They are the basis to set‐up computer‐aided design (CAD) packages. These models must be accurate, reliable, easily extracted and need limited computational requirements. Since there was a demand for a model able to describe these parameters accurately, an extension of the spectral domain approach (SDA) is proposed for microstrip lines with high permittivity. The analysis is based on the solution of a system of algebraic equations, which are derived from Galerkin's technique in the spectral domain.

Findings

Analytical expressions are deduced by curve‐fitting techniques. These expressions can be easily implemented in a CAD simulation tool to design wireless communication components. In this paper, we have developed accurate and suitable general expressions for characteristic parameters for a wide range ofεrbetween 1 and 500. The computed results were compared to those available in the literature when possible. In order to validate our models for high values of dielectric constant (128 < εr<500), neural models were generated for the characteristic impedance and effective permittivity. A very good agreement is demonstrated.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper consists on the development of design formulas to characterise the microstrip lines with high dielectric constant substrate. Closed form equations are almost non‐existent in the technical literature since the available design formulas have been developed only for dielectric media valueεrnot exceed 128.
An artificial neural network model for predicting gas pipeline induced voltage caused by power lines under fault conditions
Authors: Al‐Alawi S. , Al‐Badi A. , Ellithy K.
Published: February 2005

Purpose

Presents a technique based on the development of an artificial neural network (ANN) model for predicting the electromagnetic inference effects on gas pipelines shared right‐of‐way (ROW) with high voltage transmission lines.

Design/methodology/approach

Examines the induced pipeline voltage under different soil resistivity, fault current and separation distance.

Findings

The results indicate strong agreement between model prediction and observed values.

Originality/value

Demonstrates that the ANN‐based model developed can predict the induced voltage with high accuracy. The accuracy of the predicted induced voltage is very important for designing mitigation systems that will increase overall pipeline integrity and make the pipeline and appurtenances safe for operating personnel.
Experimental investigations and numerical modelling of the melting process in the cold crucible
Authors: Umbrashko A. , Baake E. , Nacke B. , Jakovics A.
Published: February 2005

Purpose

Aims to present recent activities in experimental investigations and numerical modelling of the induction cold crucible installation.

Design/methodology/approach

Temperature and velocity measurements using thermocouples and electromagnetic velocity probes were performed in aluminium melt which was used as a model melt. Measured temperature field and flow pattern were compared with transient 3D calculations based on large eddy simulation (LES) turbulence modelling scheme. Numerical results are in good coincidence with the experimental data.

Findings

The modelling results show that only 3D transient LES is able to model correctly these heat and mass transfer processes.

Originality/value

It is revealed that transient 3D modelling provides a universal tool for simulating convective heat and mass transfer processes in the entire melt influenced by large scale instabilities in the recirculating flows, which contain several main vortexes of the mean flow.
Retail multinational learning: a case study of Tesco
Authors: Palmer Mark
Published: February 2005

Purpose

This article examines the internationalisation of Tesco and extracts the salient lessons learned from this process.

Design/methodology/approach

This research draws on a dataset of 62 in‐depth interviews with key executives, sell‐ and buy‐side analysts and corporate advisers at the leading investment banks in the City of London to detail the experiences of Tesco's European expansion.

Findings

The case study of Tesco illuminates a number of different dimensions of the company's international experience. It offers some new insights into learning in international distribution environments such as the idea that learning is facilitated by uncertainty or “shocks” in the international retail marketplace; the size of the domestic market may inhibit change and so disable international learning; and learning is not necessarily facilitated by step‐by‐step incremental approaches to expansion.

Research limitations/implications

The paper explores learning from a rather broad perspective, although it is hoped that these parameters can be used to raise a new set of more detailed priorities for future research on international retail learning. It is also recognised that the data gathered for this case study focus on Tesco's European operations.

Practical implications

This paper raises a number of interesting issues such as whether the extremities of the business may be a more appropriate place for management to experiment and test new retail innovations, and the extent to which retailers take self‐reflection seriously.

Originality/value

The paper applies a new theoretical learning perspective to capture the variety of experiences during the internationalisation process, thus addressing a major gap in our understanding of the whole internationalisation process.
Auchan's entry into Russia: prospects and research implications
Authors: Roberts Graham H.
Published: February 2005

Purpose

To evaluate the chances of success for Auchan in Russia, and draw conclusions for retail internationalisation theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Provides a comprehensive analysis of the Russian retail landscape and emerging patterns of consumption, especially in the capital Moscow.

Findings

The success of Auchan's Russian venture will depend on the extent to which the retailer is able to leverage its three sources of competitive advantage in its domestic market, namely the hypermarket concept, the channel mix, and the environmental context. This in turn will be a function of its ability to exploit its retail marketing skills, distribution abilities, unique retail formula, strong retail brand, or a combination of these.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is not built on empirical data, but is speculative.

Originality/value

The paper's primary value lies in the call which it contains for a more eclectic conceptual framework underpinning retail internationalisation theory. Such a framework would reflect the importance of a firm's capital structure, and also pay greater attention to organisational dynamics. Attention to these issues would enable researchers to reflect more accurately the reality of the retail internationalisation process in emerging markets.
The Development of UK and European Major Hazards Legislation and the
Review of the Seveso Directive
Authors: De Cort Ron
Published: February 2005

Describes the development of major hazard controls, first domestically
in the UK and more recently in the European Community. Traces UK
developments are traced from the early concerns of the 1960s, the
Flixborough disaster and the work of the Advisory Committee on Major
Hazards on which the current philosophy for controlling major hazards is
based. Describes in detail the evolution of European Community
legislation from the Seveso Directive to the proposed new Directive for
the control of major accident hazards (COMAH). The proposed COMAH
Directive will be considered in the CEC′s Environment Working Group and
Environment Council over the coming months. If these negotiations are
successful in reaching common position by the end of 1994, the new
Directive is likely to be adopted by the Council of Ministers in 1995.
The UK will have to implement the new Directive within 18 months of its
adoption.
Web acceptance and usage model
Authors: Sánchez‐Franco Manuel J. , Roldán José L.
Published: February 2005

Purpose

To analyse the web acceptance and usage between goal‐directed users and experiential users, incorporating intrinsic motives to improve the particular and explanatory TAM (technology acceptance model) value – traditionally related to extrinsic motives.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey instrument was used to gather data to test the relationships shown in the research model. Data were collected from a sample of online questionnaires filled out by subscribers located in three discussion‐mailing lists – administered by RedIris – about different topics (e.g. experimental sciences, social sciences and humanities). A structural equation modeling (SEM), specifically partial least squares (PLS), is proposed to assess the relationships between the constructs together with the predictive power of the research model.

Findings

The empirical development suggests that there is scope for further extension of TAM to adapt to the web‐based usage and its profitable consequences. The article may help to further the empirical research and to clarify and examine a web acceptance and usage model. In general, experiential and goal‐directed behaviours moderate the key relationships in the model. Experiential and goal‐directed users do not weigh extrinsic and intrinsic motives in the same way when on the web. Goal‐directed users are more driven by instrumental factors and focused on their decision‐making process while experiential users are more motivated by process..

Research limitations/implications

First, constructs of enjoyment and concentration are used to define flow. However, because of the flow definition's conceptual‐vagueness, operationalising the flow construct has been questioned in the previous empirical works. Second, the cross‐sectional study is also an important limitation. Since the users' perception and intention can change over time, it is important to measure these quantities at several points of time. Third, the sample sizes are relatively small. Fourth, the model needs to be tested with more objective measures to compare possible divergences. Finally, the model clearly does not include all the relevant variables.

Practical implications

The results could be used to explain and to improve the experiential and goal‐directed users' experience of being and to return to the web.

Originality/value

The value of this study is to reveal the moderating influences of browsing‐modes on relationship between flow and TAM‐beliefs on the web, and, also, how the flow impacts the attitude and intention to use web between experiential and goal‐directed users.
Exploring the synergy between entrepreneurship and innovation
Authors: Zhao Fang
Published: February 2005

Purpose

To contribute to an understanding of the complementary nature of entrepreneurship and innovation through an empirical study of various organisations; and to develop an integrative framework of the interaction between entrepreneurship and innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study takes a qualitative approach in exploring the synergies between entrepreneurship and innovation and in analysing the factors that foster an interaction between the two. Case studies of six entrepreneurial and innovative organisations and in‐depth interviews with senior managers were conducted to complement a comprehensive literature review of entrepreneurship and innovation.

Findings

The study has found that: entrepreneurship and innovation are positively related to each other and interact to help an organisation to flourish; entrepreneurship and innovation are complementary, and a combination of the two is vital to organisational success and sustainability in today's dynamic and changing environment; entrepreneurship and innovation are not confined to the initial stages of a new venture; rather, they are dynamic and holistic processes in entrepreneurial and innovative organisations; and organisational culture and management style are crucial factors affecting the development of entrepreneurial and innovation behaviour in organisations.

Originality/value

Entrepreneurship and innovation should be regarded as ongoing, everyday practice in organisations, and this paper has contributed to the development of such an attitude.This empirical study contributes to an understanding of the existing theories and practices of entrepreneurship and innovation in organisations.
New knowledge creation through dialectical leadership
Authors: Kodama Mitsuru
Published: February 2005

Purpose

Aims to provide new practical viewpoints regarding the knowledge management and leadership theory of project management through an in‐depth case study

Design/methodology/approach

Argues that community leaders can develop a concept of a business community comprised of diverse types of business and processes to achieve business innovation. Studies a regional initiative in Japan towards electronic networking that illustrates the use of information and multimedia technologies as an instance of the latest business case of strategic community management.

Findings

Community leaders serve an important function in creating networked strategic communities. The case study shows how community leaders have created networked strategic communities in which the central government, regional governments, universities, hospitals, private businesses and non‐profit organizations take part in the advancement of regional electronic networking.

Originality/value

Provides new practical viewpoints regarding the knowledge management and leadership theory of project management.
Innovation through acquisition
Authors: Pech Robert M. , Pech Richard J. , Wei Ding , Shi Hong
Published: February 2005

Purpose

Through a case study of the Jiangsu Little Swan Group Company in the People's Republic of China aims to describe the transition from initial attempts at imitation of products through to the realisation that innovation would need to be purchased

Design/methodology/approach

Relates the ensuing strategic alliance between the Jiangsu Little Swan Group Company and Matsushita of Japan, the acquisition of critical technology, and finally, the development of the company' own R&D culminating in over 150 technology patents by the end of the year 2002.

Findings

Finds that Little Swan has demonstrated that it is possible to successfully make an extraordinary revolutionary shift from one industry into another.

Originality/value

The case of Little Swan clearly demonstrates that innovation can be successfully integrated into a firm from external sources through direct acquisition.
Methods for modeling and supporting innovation processes in SMEs
Authors: Scozzi Barbara , Garavelli Claudio , Crowston Kevin
Published: February 2005

Purpose

Sets out to investigate business modeling techniques (BMTs) which can be used to support and improve innovation processes within small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a literature review, different analysis perspectives on innovation processes are identified and discussed, and some firm needs and problems are pointed out. The importance of BMTs to firms is further tested by an empirical study whose initial results are reported. Finally, by matching problems and techniques characterized by the same ontology, the BMTs most suitable to address SME needs are identified and their role within the innovation process discussed.

Findings

The main result of the paper is the identification of the problems facing SMEs in innovation processes and the possible support offered by BMTs. Though methods and models alone do not assure the success in the innovation development process (IDP), they are enabling factors and can support the creation of strategies, reasoning, insights and communication.

Originality/value

The adoption of such BMTs, facilitating the codification of the characteristics of the IDP, might be particularly useful in those environments where, due to the lack of specialized resources, it is difficult to structure all of the information related to the innovation process and to exploit the related benefits and opportunities
To Buy or Not to Buy? An Experimental Study of Consumer Boycotts in Retail Markets
Authors: Tyran Jean‐Robert , Engelmann Dirk
Published: February 2005

We investigate experimentally how firms and consumers react to a sudden cost increase in a competitive retail market. We compare two conditions that exclusively differ with respect to how difficult it is to organize and enforce boycotts. We find that cost increases translate into sudden price increases, and that consumer boycotts are frequent in response. However, consumer boycotts are unsuccessful in holding down market prices even if collective action problems are completely eliminated. While consumer boycotts do not increase consumer rent, they reduce market efficiency. Consumer boycotts apparently serve to punish firms for seemingly unfair price increases.
Quality of life and disability assessment in neuropathy: a multicentre study
Authors: Padua Luca , Schenone Angelo , Aprile Irene , Benedetti Luana , Caliandro Pietro , Tonali Pietro , Orazio Eduardo Nobile
Published: February 2005

Abstract  Neuropathy can severely affect patients' quality of life (QoL), causing disability and decreased motor efficiency while modifying their perception of the external environment. We performed a large, multiperspective, and multimeasurement assessment using validated clinical measurements of disability and QoL. With regard to general disability, more than 10% of patients needed assistance to walk. With regard to arm disability, about 10% of patients had severe disability defined as impairment in carrying out simple tasks. General disability was similar both in polyneuropathic and multineuropathic groups, but arm disability appeared more severe in multineuropathic patients. QoL profiles were highly deteriorated in our sample with respect to the Italian normative sample. All age brackets were highly impaired except for older patients for whom the QoL picture was only mildly impaired with respect to Italian norms. We believe that our study provides reliable data on QoL in patients with neuropathies and that it may represent a quantitative step forward in understanding the disability of patients with neuropathy.
High‐dose cyclophosphamide results in long‐term disease remission with restoration of a normal quality of life in patients with severe refractory chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Authors: Gladstone Douglas E. , Prestrud Ann A. , Brannagan Thomas H.
Published: February 2005

Abstract  We previously reported the improvement of clinical parameters in severe, refractory chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) following high‐dose cyclophosphamide therapy. Here, we examine effects of this therapy on quality of life, report long‐term clinical follow‐up, and include new data on a fifth patient. Patients completed The Medical Outcomes Short Form 36 to assess quality of life impact. Pretherapy and post‐therapy scores were compared with the Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test. Patient's post‐therapy scores were compared with the normal United States population. Functional status was assessed with the Modified Rankin score. Strength was assessed using a summated MRC strength. Nerve conduction studies were conducted using standard techniques with supramaximal stimulation. The median follow‐up for the five patients is 2.9 (range: 1.6–4.8) years. The first four patients remain off all immunomodulatory medications. In six of the eight quality of life scales measured, patients enjoyed clinically significant improvement. Their overall strength increased by a median change of 10 (range: −1 to 20); their overall Modified Rankin score increased by a median of 3 (range: 0–4), and their summated compound motor action potential amplitudes increased by a mean of 3.69 mV (range: 0.156–7.83). Patient 5 has had stabilization of motor strength. High‐dose cyclophosphamide can markedly improve functionality and quality of life for patients with severe refractory CIDP.
Modulation of a dog's internal organ function by selective stimulation of the splanchnic nerve
Authors: Rozman Janez , Ribaric̀ Samo , Bunc Matjaz̀ , Drevens̀ek Gorazd
Published: February 2005

Abstract  The superficial regions of the dog splanchnic nerve were selectively stimulated with 33‐electrode spiral cuffs in 11 circumferential groups of three electrodes to modulate the function of the innervated internal organs and glands. In two adult Beagle dogs under general anaesthesia, the cuffs were chronically implanted on the nerve trunks before the celiac ganglion. Superficial regions of the nerves were selectively stimulated for 15 s with biphasic, rectangular, current pulses (2 mA intensity, 200 µs duration, and 20 Hz frequency) which were delivered sequentially to the corresponding group of three electrodes. The results showed that Group no. 8 of three electrodes elicited the highest influence on pressure within the bladder. Namely, a decrease in pressure starting from 34.97 mmHg at the beginning of stimulation to 34.92 mmHg at the end of stimulation was observed. It was also shown that only Group no. 4 of three electrodes significantly modified the endocrine function of the pancreas. A considerable increase in glucagon secretion with a peak value of 47 pg/ml and an insignificant change in insulin secretion were also observed. The results of histological observations demonstrated that the use of the cuff was associated with a buildup of connective tissue encapsulation around the cuff as well as within it. However, functional deficits were not observed in the animal, and most of the fibers appeared to be histologically normal after stimulation. The results of this study clearly demonstrate that internal organs and glands can be selectively stimulated through the selective stimulation of innervating superficial regions of the autonomous peripheral nerve.
CYP90C1 and CYP90D1 are involved in different steps in the brassinosteroid biosynthesis pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kim Gyung‐Tae , Fujioka Shozo , Kozuka Toshiaki , Tax Frans E. , Takatsuto Suguru , Yoshida Shigeo , Tsukaya Hirokazu
Published: February 2005

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are plant hormones that are essential for a wide range of developmental processes in plants. Many of the genes responsible for the early reactions in the biosynthesis of BRs have recently been identified. However, several genes for enzymes that catalyze late steps in the biosynthesis pathways of BRs remain to be identified, and only a few genes responsible for the reactions that produce bioactive BRs have been identified. We found that the ROTUNDIFOLIA3 (ROT3) gene, encoding the enzyme CYP90C1, which was specifically involved in the regulation of leaf length in Arabidopsis thaliana, was required for the late steps in the BR biosynthesis pathway. ROT3 appears to be required for the conversion of typhasterol to castasterone, an activation step in the BR pathway. We also analyzed the gene most closely related to ROT3, CYP90D1, and found that double mutants for ROT3 and CYP90D1 had a severe dwarf phenotype, whereas cyp90d1 single knockout mutants did not. BR profiling in these mutants revealed that CYP90D1 was also involved in BR biosynthesis pathways. ROT3 and CYP90D1 were expressed differentially in leaves of A. thaliana, and the mutants for these two genes differed in their defects in elongation of hypocotyls under light conditions. The expression of CYP90D1 was strongly induced in leaf petioles in the dark. The results of the present study provide evidence that the two cytochrome P450s, CYP90C1 and CYP90D1, play distinct roles in organ‐specific environmental regulation of the biosynthesis of BRs.
The transcript composition of egg cells changes significantly following fertilization in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Sprunck Stefanie , Baumann Ute , Edwards Keith , Langridge Peter , Dresselhaus Thomas
Published: February 2005

Here, we report the transcript profile of wheat egg cells and proembryos, just after the first cell division. Microdissected female gametophytes of wheat were used to isolate eggs and two‐celled proembryos to construct cell type‐specific cDNA libraries. In total, 1197 expressed sequence tags (ESTs) were generated. Analysis of these ESTs revealed numerous novel transcripts. In egg cells, 17.6% of the clustered ESTs represented novel transcripts, while 11.4% novel clusters were identified in the two‐celled proembryo. Functional classification of sequences with similarity to previously characterized proteins indicates that the unfertilized egg cell has a higher metabolic activity and protein turnover than previously thought. Transcript composition of two‐celled proembryos was significantly distinct from egg cells, reflecting DNA replication as well as high transcriptional and translational activity. Several novel transcripts of the egg cell are specific for this cell. In contrast, some fertilization induced novel mRNAs are abundant also in sporophytic tissues indicating a more general role in plant growth and development. The potential functions of genes based on similarity to known genes involved in developmental processes are discussed. Our analysis has identified numerous genes with potential roles in embryo sac function such as signaling, fertilization or induction of embryogenesis.
Cap‐independent translation of maize Hsp101
Authors: Dinkova Tzvetanka D. , Zepeda Hilda , Martínez‐Salas Encarnación , Martínez Luz María , Nieto‐Sotelo Jorge , de Jiménez Estela Sánchez
Published: February 2005

Maize embryonic axes contain stored mRNAs, some of which are able to undergo cap‐independent translation initiation during germination. The Hsp101 mRNA, encoding a heat shock protein, is essential for thermo‐tolerance induction and is present among the stored transcripts. This research aimed to investigate whether the Hsp101 transcript is IRES‐driven regulated upon heat stress. Hsp101 transcribed either in vitro or in vivo was efficiently translated via a cap‐independent mechanism. This was observed either in an animal in vitro translation system containing proteolytically cleaved eukaryotic initiation factor eIF4G or in a plant system lacking both eIF4E and eIFiso4E initiation factors. Deletion of the 5′ untranslated region (UTR) from the Hsp101 mRNA abolished its cap‐independent translation indicating that this nucleotide sequence is required to confer cap‐independent initiation. Bicistronic constructs containing the Hsp101 mRNA 5′UTR in sense and anti‐sense directions between two reporter genes were translated in both cap‐independent systems. A similar bicistronic construct containing a viral internal ribosome entry site (IRES) element between the reporter genes was used as control. Internal translation of the second reporter gene was observed when the Hsp101 5′UTR was in the sense but not in the anti‐sense orientation in the bicistronic construct. Taken together, these data suggest that the 5′UTR of maize Hsp101, a plant cellular mRNA, functions as an IRES‐like element accounting for its cap‐independent translation during heat stress.
Selective approach to a male and subsequent receptivity to mounting comprise mate‐choice behavior of female mice1
Authors: TOMIHARA KAZUYA
Published: February 2005

Abstract:  To ensure the effectiveness of the mate‐choice behavior of female house mice (Mus domesticus), we observed them in two different situations that involved restriction of the area of movement of the male mice. In Experiment 1, we observed 12 trios consisting of two male mice and an estrous female placed in a chamber in which none of the animals was restricted during the 6‐h test. It was found that the female was more receptive to the male that had ejaculated with it first. Additionally, when the female initiated the mating event by approaching the male, the lordosis quotient was higher than that when the male initiated the mating event. In Experiment 2, a female was able to visit two males that were prevented from getting out of small boxes. As a result of the 3‐h observation of 10 cases, it was found that the females were more receptive to the dominant male. The intromission ratio of the dominant male was also higher than that of the subordinate male. The behavioral roles of female mice in mating interactions and their adaptive validity are discussed.
Modeling Family‐Centered Pediatric Nursing Care: Strategies for Shift Report
Authors: Ryan Eileen , Steinmiller Elizabeth
Published: February 2005

ISSUES AND PURPOSE. Family‐centered care philosophies place the family as central to the plan of care. These philosophies are often challenging for nurses to put into clinical practice. The purpose of this article is to provide interventions for nurses to use with families who are stressed.

CONCLUSIONS. Families' coping styles may be subject to judgments from the nurses, and these judgments may be passed on during shift report. Labels that are passed on in report can influence nurses' care.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. This article describes positive communication strategies for shift report that can facilitate successful family‐centered care.
Comparative Surface Morphology of Marine Coelomic Gregarines (Apicomplexa, Urosporidae): Pterospora floridiensis and Pterospora schizosoma
Authors: Landers Stephen C. , Leander Brian S.
Published: February 2005

Abstract. Two species in the aseptate gregarine genus Pterospora from the Pacific and Gulf coasts were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, which revealed characteristics not reported in other gregarines. The gamonts of these species had branching trunks that ended in terminal digits, and both species moved by cytoplasmic streaming and peristalsis. Pterospora floridiensis had surface pits and tracts of parallel ridges that bended and connected with one another. Pterospora schizosoma had irregular‐shaped surface swellings that were usually arranged in rosette patterns. These unique surface features have not been reported for other gregarines, and are strikingly different from the surface features of many septate and aseptate gregarines that inhabit the intestinal lumena of their hosts and move by gliding. The correlation of Pterospora's unique pellicular features to the habitat and cytoplasmic streaming characteristic of the genus may be significant, and may reflect an adaptation for development in coelomic environments.